What is the proper way to display a military flight helmet at funeral?

Answer 1

Customs often vary by country regarding display of military memorabilia during a funeral. When there is a military funeral within a military cemetery, such as America's renown Arlington Cemetery, a strict protocol is followed, including a pall over the coffin, consisting of the US flag. In this setting nothing may be placed atop the US flag, out of respect.

However, if the funeral is being held in a country such as the United Kingdom, whether it's a burial or cremation, a memorial, such as a flight helmet, framed photo, etc., may be placed centre-point atop the coffin. Coffins are sealed at the Funeral Director's prior to being taken to a crematory or cemetery.

As it's often the custom in the US to have either an open coffin/casket service, or a wake, where the deceased is present, it is acceptable to place the helmet, either at the bottom part of the unopened half of the casket. Or if it's a single lid, then it's appropriate either to place the helmet to the left of the deceased, approximately at hand level, or alternatively, (if space permits), at the top of the left shoulder of the deceased.

There have been instances when a single lid coffin/casket is used where a military hat, or other appropriate memorialisations are placed at the foot of the deceased.

Provided it's not obstructing the flag, there is a degree of flexibility.

During these considerations, it is essential to determine from the family whether the helmet is to be committed with the coffin, either in burial or cremation. Some local and/or national laws prohibit metallic items from going into the cremator.

This is due to the risk of environmental contamination, or in some cases, due to the possibility of the cremator being damaged by the foreign item.