As more veterans choose cremation, funeral professionals are reimagining long-standing military honors to meet modern preferences. Demonstrating this trend, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs now includes a reference to urns in its statement on burial: "A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran." With this shift in mind, we've gathered some practical ways you can continue to honor veterans with dignity in your cremation memorial services.

1. Incorporate the United States Flag

Where does the flag rest if there is no casket? Some funeral directors have the flag folded and resting next to the cremation urn. Alternatively, the flag may be draped over a podium or the urn itself as long as the flag does not touch the ground. Flag etiquette dictates that nothing can be placed on top of the U.S. flag (such as flowers or medals).

After a military funeral, most families need a flag case for the presented flag. Reflections Urns & Memorials offers several American-made flag cases and combination display units including options that hold the flag with a cremation urn, a medal display, or both—all available for fast shipping.

American Pride Brass Urn | MRJ-116 >>

2. Recognize Patriotism and Service in the Choice of Urn

Funeral professionals can suggest urns that pay tribute to military service. Eagle urns and flag urns are very popular choices for veterans. The emblems of each branch of the military are available in engraving artwork options or medallions that can be added to almost any urn. Lastly, the simple choice of a colored urn in red or navy blue can have a dramatic impact at veteran's memorial service.

Some of our most popular selections include:

• Patriotic Eagle Cloisonné Urn: A striking red, white, and blue cloisonné urn featuring a soaring eagle design.
• Soaring Eagle Inlay Wood Urn: Crafted with fine wood inlay, this urn showcases a detailed eagle mid-flight.
• American Pride Brass Urn: Available in steel gray or navy blue, with a gold eagle accent and timeless brass construction.
• Freedom Walnut Cremation Urn: A solid wooden urn that can be personalized with emblems from any military branch.

We also offer companion urns that allow a veteran and their spouse to be memorialized together. Personalization options such as engraving the name, rank, branch, or service dates help families create a tribute that is truly personal and lasting. These thoughtful touches make a lasting impression and often bring comfort to grieving families.

3. Incorporate other patriotic memorial products and ideas

The memorial service for a veteran can be personalized even further with a variety of meaningful ideas and products. Thoughtful touches help families create a ceremony that reflects both respect for military traditions and the unique personality of their loved one. For example:

• Floral arrangements can incorporate red, white and blue including an urn wreath.
• Honor personnel can stand by the urn on a podium and/or present the flag as part of the service.
• "Taps" can be played at the end of a service—instead of at the conclusion of a military burial.

Army Cremation Jewelry | JDI-290 >>

Family members can choose to wear cremation jewelry or be given these pendants to have in remembrance of the honoree. Each piece holds a small amount of cremated remains and is available in different finishes to suit personal style. Some of our most popular products are the stainless steel Military Emblem Cremation Jewelry pieces, offered in several styles featuring the official seal of each military branch.

Additionally, keepsake items like photo frame urns or memory chests can offer additional ways to display medals, photos, or mementos. The Devotion Walnut Chest Urn by Howard Miller is a customer favorite. Made with quality wood in a sturdy design, its hinged lid leaves room for treasured items.

Preserving Tradition, Embracing Change

Honoring a veteran’s life and service is a responsibility funeral professionals take seriously. As more families turn to cremation, it’s essential to preserve the meaning and dignity of military traditions while offering new ways to personalize each tribute. By offering thoughtful options—from patriotic urns to jewelry and display pieces—funeral professionals help ensure that each family can honor their loved one’s service in a way that feels both respectful and personal.