Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced If Lost or Damaged?

Jun 03, 2026

Understanding VA burial flag policies and how families can continue honoring their loved one’s legacy.

For many military families, a burial flag is far more than a folded piece of fabric. It represents sacrifice, service, honor, and remembrance. Presented during a veteran’s funeral or memorial service, the American flag often becomes one of the family’s most treasured keepsakes.

Does the VA Replace Burial Flags?

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the law allows the VA to provide only one burial flag for a veteran’s funeral.

Families often find themselves needing a replacement for several reasons, including:

• The original flag was accidentally damaged or torn over time
• The flag has faded due to sunlight exposure or age
• The flag was lost during a move or family transition
• The original flag is too fragile to continue displaying
• Multiple family members wish to have a flag for remembrance or display

In other cases, families may wish to have additional flags for multiple households or memorial displays so that more than one loved one can keep a tribute close.

While the VA-issued flag is intended as a one-time ceremonial item, these situations often leave families searching for another way to continue honoring their loved one’s service.

Continuing a Veteran’s Legacy with a Replacement Flag

Because the VA only provides one burial flag per veteran, families are often unable to get a replacement if it is lost, damaged, or no longer usable.

In these situations, many families choose to replace the original with a high-quality, American-made flag that can continue the tribute in a respectful and meaningful way. 

Choosing an authentic, real American-made flag matters. It’s not just about having a replacement, it’s about preserving the dignity and meaning behind what the flag represents. A well-crafted flag reflects the same values of honor, sacrifice, and patriotism that define the service of the veteran being remembered.

Real American Flag is a proud supplier to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for our nation’s veterans burial flags. That means families purchasing from Real American Flag are receiving the same level of authentic American craftsmanship trusted to honor veterans during military funeral services. 

Honoring Their Service Every Day

A burial flag is one of the most meaningful symbols a family can receive, representing a lifetime of service, sacrifice, and love for the country. When that flag becomes lost, damaged, or no longer able to be displayed, it can feel like a piece of that memory is missing.

While the VA can only issue one burial flag per veteran, families can still honor their loved one’s legacy with a high-quality American-made flag. Because Real American Flag supplies the VA with veterans burial flags, we give families confidence that they are purchasing an authentic American-made flag trusted to honor those who served our country. 

To learn more about the flags we offer and continue honoring your loved one’s legacy with authenticity and respect, visit RealAmericanFlag.com