For service to a grateful Nation ... a tribute to my father in law

Once a US Flag is lifted from the casket it is tilted down in front of the casket to block the view. The flag is then held up for everyone to see and taps is then played softly in the distance. This is referred to as, "Presenting the Colors". Tradition holds that at this time the fighting spirit of the veteran then enters the flag. Once the flag has been folded, both the Flag and the veteran are formally "retired" forever.(photos: Kelly Bishop).