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Resources

  • Are you a funeral home or cremation provider?
    No, Patriot Memorial Services is not a licensed funeral home or crematory. We specialize exclusively in custom tribute design and memorial artwork to help honor and celebrate the life of your loved one. We do not handle any part of the physical remains, cremation, or funeral arrangements.
  • Do you work with funeral homes directly?
    Yes, we often partner with funeral homes and service directors who want to offer their clients a higher level of tribute design. If you're a professional and would like to collaborate, please contact us for partnership details.
  • Can I use your services in addition to a funeral home?
    Absolutely. Many families and funeral homes partner with us to enhance traditional services with personalized artwork that reflects the personality, service, or story of the departed. Our work is intended to complement—not replace—funeral home services.
  • Do you offer military, first responder, or patriotic tribute designs?
    Yes. We specialize in creating patriot-themed memorials, honoring veterans, active-duty service members, law enforcement, and first responders. We offer respectful, symbolic designs that highlight service, sacrifice, and legacy.
  • What kind of memorial services do you provide?
    We offer custom-designed visual tributes including memorial prints, banners, digital slideshows, tribute videos, framed artwork, and personalized keepsakes. These pieces are often displayed at memorials, celebrations of life, or kept by families as lasting mementos.
  • What payment methods do you accept?
    We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Secure checkout is provided for all orders, and no payment is processed until your design consultation begins.
  • Where are you located? Do you serve all 50 states?
    Patriot Memorial Services operates from the U.S. and proudly serves families nationwide. All designs are delivered digitally or shipped securely, ensuring fast, reliable access to your memorial materials wherever you are.
  • How do I provide the photos and information needed?
    After placing your order, you’ll receive a link to a secure upload portal or email address where you can send your loved one’s photo(s), name, dates, preferred quotes, military rank (if applicable), and any other details you'd like to include.
  • What is the turnaround time for your memorial products?
    Turnaround times vary by product. Our tribute designs are completed within 24 to 72 hours. Rush options are available for time-sensitive services. We understand how quickly plans can move, and we’re committed to helping you meet your timeline with dignity and care.
  • Can I request a custom design that’s not listed on your website?
    Yes. Every life is unique, and we welcome custom requests. Whether you have a specific theme, faith tradition, branch of service, or artistic vision in mind, our designers will work closely with you to create something meaningful.
  • Do you offer digital versions of your artwork?
    Yes, digital formats are available for most of our tribute products. You can receive high-resolution versions suitable for screens, printing, or sharing with family and friends online.
  • What types of design services do you offer?
    We offer a wide range of tribute design services, including: Memorial posters and banners Tribute slideshow/video design Custom framed artwork Digital memorial graphics for sharing on social media Military, first responder, and patriotic-themed designs Custom keepsake art (for printing on items like plaques, apparel, or urns)
  • How does the design process work?
    Consultation / Order Form Submission You send us photos, important dates, quotes, and any preferences. Design Phase Our designers create a draft based on your vision, typically within 24–48 hours. Proofing & Revisions You’ll receive a preview and can request adjustments. Final Delivery Once approved, files are sent digitally, or print-ready formats are shipped if you ordered physical items.
  • Can I see a proof before finalizing the design?
    Yes. Every client receives a proof for review and approval. We offer 1–2 rounds of revisions at no additional charge, depending on the package. We want you to feel confident and at peace with the final result.
  • What kinds of information should I provide to help with the design?
    Full name of the loved one Date of birth and passing High-resolution photo(s) Quotes, scripture, lyrics, or phrases you’d like included Service details (branch of military, rank, years of service, etc., if applicable) Style or color preferences Any symbols (flags, eagles, emblems, religious symbols, etc.)
  • Do you offer design services for printing outside your shop?
    Yes. We provide print-ready digital files in the format and size you need—perfect for sending to local printers, funeral homes, or online print services. If you plan to print elsewhere, let us know the specs (size, file type, bleed/margin requirements) so we can tailor your design.
  • Can you design tributes in Spanish or bilingual formats?
    Yes. We support English, Spanish, and bilingual designs. You may provide your own translations or we can assist with respectful wording in both languages.
  • What if I only have one photo, or a low-quality image?
    We understand this is common. Our designers can often enhance and restore older or lower-resolution photos. If image quality limits certain design features, we’ll work with you to make the most of what you have and offer tasteful alternatives.
  • How long does a typical design take to complete?
    Digital memorial graphics: 24–48 hours Custom posters/slideshows: 2–3 business days Rush orders: Available for an additional fee (as fast as same-day, depending on workload)
  • Do you keep copies of the artwork for future use?
    Yes. We archive all approved designs for at least 90 days. If you need reprints or edits in the future (e.g., for an anniversary), we can retrieve and modify your existing tribute.

At Patriot Memorial Services, we know that honoring a loved one comes with important questions.

This page offers clear answers about our custom memorial designs, what we provide, and how to get started

—so you can focus on what matters most.

General Memorial Information

​1. Understanding Military Funeral Honors

Military funeral honors are a formal ceremony to honor the service of U.S. Armed Forces veterans. At minimum, they include:

  • Folding and presenting the American flag to the next of kin

  • The playing of Taps, typically by a live bugler or ceremonial recording

  • A rifle volley (optional) from an honor guard unit

  • A uniformed detail from the veteran's branch of service
     

Eligibility: Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, active duty service members, and certain Reserve/Guard personnel.


Etiquette Notes:

  • Family and attendees should stand during Taps and flag presentation.

  • Men should remove hats and place their hand over their heart.

  • Veterans may salute during Taps.

  • Attendees should refrain from applause or casual conversation during these honors.

To arrange honors, contact the funeral home or request through the DoD Military Funeral Honors Program or the VA.
 

2. How to Request a Burial Flag from the VA

Eligible families may receive one free U.S. burial flag to honor a deceased veteran. This flag is used in ceremonies and often displayed with the casket or urn.
 

How to request:

  • Complete VA Form 27-2008 (Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes)

  • Submit to a local post office or VA regional office

  • You must provide proof of military service (DD-214 or equivalent)
     

Tips:

  • Request the flag as early as possible in planning.

  • Consider purchasing or building a memorial flag display case for long-term preservation.

  • Burial flags should never be flown outdoors due to their ceremonial nature.
     

3. Symbolism Behind the Folding of the American Flag

The 13 traditional folds of the American flag are rich in symbolism, although not officially codified by the military.
 

They are often interpreted as follows:

  1. Life

  2. Belief in eternal life

  3. Honor and remembrance

  4. Trust in God

  5. Tribute to the country

  6. Devotion to truth and justice

  7. Tribute to the Armed Forces

  8. Salute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death

  9. Tribute to womanhood and mothers

  10. Tribute to fathers
    11–13. Religious symbolism and commitment to freedom
     

Etiquette:

  • The folded triangle should display only the blue field with stars.

  • The flag should never touch the ground.

  • Only trained honor guards or military personnel should perform the folding.
     

4. Custom Memorial Artwork

Visual tributes help immortalize the legacy of veterans, first responders, and patriots.

Common formats include:

  • Digital Portraits (hand-illustrated or stylized from photos)

  • Tribute Posters (24x36 or 16x24 sizes)

  • Banners for services or graveside setups

  • Keepsake Cards or service programs

  • Slide shows or tribute videos with military music and voiceover
     

Design best practices:

  • Include official branch insignia or badges (ensure copyright-free or permission)

  • Use red, white, and blue elements respectfully—not gimmickry

  • Maintain clarity, contrast, and solemnity in colors and fonts
     

5. What to Include in a Patriotic Memorial Display

A tribute table is a central visual in most patriotic memorial services.

Suggested items include:

  • Framed photo or portrait

  • Military uniform, medals, ribbons, patches

  • Engraved dog tags

  • Keepsakes like a Bible, folded flag, or special letter

  • Personal effects (pilot wings, helmet, firefighting badge)

  • Candles or symbolic lighting
     

Layout tips:

  • Center the flag or portrait

  • Keep the arrangement clean, respectful, and symmetrical

  • Avoid overcrowding; each item should have space and purpose
     

6. Difference Between Memorial Services and Funerals

Funerals typically involve a casket, occur shortly after death, and may include burial.
Memorial services are more flexible—often post-cremation or after burial—and focus on celebration of life.
 

In patriotic memorial contexts:

  • Memorials allow time for formal military or civic honors, even months after death.

  • Virtual attendance options can include digital slideshows or tribute pages.
     

Etiquette guidance:

  • Formal attire is recommended (dark suits, dresses, or uniforms)

  • Service programs should include the deceased’s military or civic affiliations

  • Order of service may include: Pledge of Allegiance, eulogy, Taps, reading of honors
     

7. How to Personalize Keepsakes

Memorial keepsakes offer enduring reminders of a loved one’s service.

Popular options:

  • Custom dog tags engraved with name, rank, branch, and dates

  • Wooden keepsake boxes with service emblems or etched names

  • Challenge coins with custom messaging

  • Keychains with photo or rank insignia

  • Embroidered patches of units, departments, or missions
     

Tips:

  • Include a favorite quote, scripture, or motto

  • Use high-quality materials (metal, hardwood, acrylic)

  • Make options available for both family and comrades
     

8. Planning a Memorial Tribute for First Responders

Firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and civic servants often receive line-of-duty memorials or public honors.

Elements may include:

  • Bagpipe processions

  • Last radio call or final dispatch tribute

  • Thin Red Line or Thin Blue Line symbolism (in flags, apparel, or design)

  • Escort by service vehicles or department personnel
     

Additional considerations:

  • Ensure coordination with their department or union for proper protocol

  • Incorporate gear (helmet, badge, turnout coat) into visual displays

  • Respect state and departmental traditions—some use specific badges or salutes

Absolutely—here are two additional highly informative resource topics to round out your collection to a complete set of 10, specifically tailored to patriotic memorial services:

​

9. Writing a Patriot’s Obituary or Memorial

Crafting an obituary or memorial bio for a veteran, first responder, or civic patriot should reflect both their personal life and their service legacy.

A well-written tribute includes:

  • Full name, rank/title, branch or department served

  • Dates of birth and passing

  • Service highlights (conflicts served, honors awarded, years of duty)

  • Personal life (family, education, hobbies, faith)

  • Message of gratitude to those who served beside them or supported them
     

Tone & Style Tips:

  • Maintain dignity and clarity—avoid overly casual phrases

  • Use respectful past-tense language: “served,” “was honored with...”

  • Include formal acknowledgments like “We thank him/her for their service to our nation and community.”
     

These tributes are often read aloud, printed in service programs, and posted online. A professional writer or designer can help elevate the tone and layout.
 

10. Coordinating with Organizations for Support

Numerous local and national organizations offer support for memorial services, ceremonies, and family outreach. These include:

  • American Legion and VFW for military honors and ceremonial participation

  • Patriot Guard Riders for escorting remains or attending memorials

  • Local fire, police, or EMS departments for honor guards or bagpipers

  • Gold Star Family groups for emotional and logistical support
     

How to get help:

  • Reach out early to request flag line participation or ceremonial presence

  • Ask your funeral director or memorial coordinator for existing contacts

  • Many organizations will provide free assistance as part of their mission
     

Helpful Add-ons:

  • Include these groups in acknowledgments during the service

  • Display affiliated insignias or flags respectfully in tribute areas

​

11. Differences Between Active Duty, Veteran, and Retiree Funeral Honors
 

Not all service members receive the same funeral honors—there are distinctions based on status at the time of death:

  • Active Duty: Receive full military honors which may include a caisson (horse-drawn carriage), 21-gun salute, full military escort, and chaplain services.

  • Veterans (with honorable discharge): Entitled to basic honors, typically a flag folding, Taps, and a 2-person detail.

  • Military Retirees: May qualify for enhanced honors, such as additional pallbearers or rifle detail, depending on rank and branch resources.
     

Pro Tip: Families should clarify the service status of their loved one when planning. Funeral directors and Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) can help confirm entitlements.
 

12. How to Properly Retire or Fold a Burial Flag After a Memorial

After a burial flag is presented, many families are unsure what to do with it long-term.

Here's what most don’t know:

  • Do not unfold it for display—it should remain in its triangular fold in a flag case.

  • If it must be unfolded (e.g., for a second service or transport), it should be refolded by someone trained (preferably a veteran or honor guard).

  • Never wash or dry-clean the flag. If it becomes damaged, it should be retired properly—usually by burning in a ceremonial flag retirement conducted by the American Legion or VFW.
     

Note: Patriot Memorial Services can offer referral or partnership services for proper flag case engraving and preservation.
 

13. Etiquette of Challenge Coins at Memorials

Challenge coins are small medallions bearing a unit insignia or emblem and are often exchanged in the military or first responder communities.
 

In memorial settings, challenge coins may be:

  • Placed on the casket, urn, or memorial table as a sign of respect

  • Given to family members as a keepsake

  • Passed among attendees who served alongside the fallen
     

Coin Etiquette:

  • Present it with your right hand, palm up

  • Include a brief phrase or story when gifting it (“For your father’s strength and service…”)

  • Never drop or toss a coin on a memorial—placement should be deliberate and solemn
     

These symbolic items are a quiet way for fellow servicemembers and responders to say goodbye.

National Mental Health Resources
for Military & First Responders

1. Veterans Crisis Line

Phone: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
Text: 838255
Website: veteranscrisisline.net
Confidential, 24/7 support for veterans, active duty service members, National Guard, Reserve, and their families.
 

2. National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Phone: Dial 988 (Press 1 for veterans)
Website: 988lifeline.org
A 24/7 national network of trained crisis counselors for anyone in emotional distress, including military and public safety personnel.
 

3. Safe Call Now

Phone: 1-206-459-3020
Website: safecallnow.org
A confidential, 24-hour crisis line for first responders and public safety employees. Staffed by peers who understand occupational stress.
 

4. Give an Hour

Website: giveanhour.org
Connects military, veterans, and their families to free mental health professionals nationwide. Offers in-person and virtual counseling.
 

5. Wounded Warrior Project – Talk Program

Phone: 888-997-2586
Website: woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/talk
Provides post-9/11 veterans and service members with access to licensed mental health professionals, peer groups, and trauma support.
 

6. Frontline Helpline – Share the Load Program

Phone: 1-888-731-3473 (FIRE)
Website: nvfc.org/help
Confidential support for firefighters, EMTs, and rescue personnel through trained peers and licensed counselors.
 

7. Code Green Campaign

Website: codegreencampaign.org
A mental health advocacy organization for EMS, fire, dispatch, and law enforcement. Offers education, peer resources, and personal stories.
 

8. The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ Service Members and First Responders)

Phone: 1-866-488-7386
Text: Text “START” to 678-678
Website: thetrevorproject.org
24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support for LGBTQ+ individuals, including those in military and first responder roles.
 

9. Military OneSource

Phone: 1-800-342-9647
Website: militaryonesource.mil
A Department of Defense-funded support program offering free counseling, non-medical life coaching, and wellness resources for service members and families.
 

10. Copline

Phone: 1-800-267-5463
Website: copline.org
A peer support hotline staffed by retired law enforcement officers trained to listen and provide referrals, available 24/7.

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