We, a party of three, gathered as one, to render honors unto those who have passed on. Standing in the distance, ready to fire, in memory of one who has served with honor. Three volleys are fired, clearing a way, for the soul to follow on this final day. Planting another flower in the garden of stone, three shots in unison, a farewell to our own. A final salute to our uniform member, this lifetime of service we’ll always remember. Firing party, a job with pride, always to be seen, firing party, we are a team!

Today, the tradition of the three volleys continues to be used as a final farewell to a soldier who served this country with pride and honor. The firing party renders this tradition at active duty and retiree funerals only. The firing party is placed at a 45 degree angle from the head of the casket. Only active duty and retiree members are entitled to receive the full military honors which includes the Firing Party.