The escort is formed opposite the quarters of the deceased; the band on that flank of the escort toward which it is to march.
Upon the appearance of the coffin, the commander commands: 1. Present, 2. ARMS, and the band plays an appropriate air; arms are then brought to the order.
The escort is next formed into column of companies, platoons, or squads. If the escort be small, it may be marched in line. The procession is formed in the following order: 1. Music, 2. Escort, 3. Clergy, 4. Coffin and pallbearers, 5. Mourners, 6. Members of the former command of the deceased, 7. Other officers and enlisted men, 8. Distinguished persons, 9. Delegations, 10. Societies, 11. Civilians. Officers and enlisted men (Nos. 6 and 7), with side arms, are in the order of rank, seniors in front.
The procession being formed, the commander of the escort puts it in march.
The escort marches slowly to solemn music; the column having arrived opposite the grave, line is formed facing it.
The coffin is then carried along the front of the escort to the grave; arms are presented, the music plays an appropriate air; the coffin having been placed over the grave, the music ceases and arms are brought to the order.
The commander next commands: 1. Parade, 2. REST. The escort executes parade rest, officers and men inclining the head.
When the funeral services are completed and the coffin lowered into the grave, the commander causes the escort to resume attention and fire three rounds of blank cartridges, the muzzles of the pieces being elevated. When the escort is greater than a battalion, one battalion is designated to fire the volley.
A musician then sounds taps.
The escort is then formed into column, marched in quick time to the point where it was assembled, and dismissed.