Why Do Military Funerals Use a 21-Gun Salute?

Where does the number 21 actually come from?

It traces back to old naval gun salute customs, where ships fired cannons as a gesture of respect, and the specific number of shots fired signaled the level of honor being given - with 21 eventually becoming standardized internationally as the highest possible honor, reserved for heads of state and other similarly significant occasions.

Is what’s performed at a typical military funeral actually 21 individual gunshots?

Not exactly - what most people witness at a military funeral is technically a “three-volley salute,” performed by a detail of service members (traditionally seven, though this can vary) who each fire three rounds in sequence. Seven shooters firing three volleys each totals 21 shots, which is part of why the two terms - three-volley salute and 21-gun salute - are commonly used interchangeably, even though they technically describe somewhat different traditions.

Is the three-volley salute the same tradition as an actual 21-gun cannon salute?

Not precisely - a genuine 21-gun salute traditionally refers to actual artillery or cannon fire, reserved for very specific, formal state occasions. The rifle volleys performed at a standard military funeral are a related but distinct tradition, though the two are frequently and understandably conflated in everyday language.

Why does a military funeral include this particular honor?

The gun salute, in whichever specific form, is intended as a formal, dignified acknowledgment of a service member’s service and sacrifice, forming one part of a broader set of military funeral honors offered to eligible veterans.

Who is eligible to receive military funeral honors, including this salute?

Eligibility generally depends on the specific nature of a veteran’s service and discharge status - see our guide on military funeral honors for what’s typically included and how eligibility is generally determined.

Are there other traditions that are part of the same broader set of military honors?

Yes - flag folding and presentation, and the playing of “Taps,” are also common components of military funeral honors, often performed alongside the volley salute as part of the same overall ceremony. See our guide on why flags are folded at military funerals for that related tradition.

Does every branch of the military perform this tradition the same way?

The general structure is broadly consistent across service branches, though some specific details and protocols can vary. A funeral home coordinating military honors, or the relevant service branch’s honor guard, can explain specifics for a particular service.

How can a family arrange for military funeral honors, including this salute?

This is generally coordinated through the funeral home in consultation with the relevant military branch or veterans service organization - see our guide on veterans burial benefits for the fuller process of accessing military funeral honors and related benefits.

Specific military funeral protocols can vary by branch and circumstance - a funeral home experienced with military honors or the relevant service branch can confirm what applies to a specific situation.