AFCCA is pleased to share a valuable resource for funeral professionals, cemeterians, and families who wish to honor veterans with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Joseph Baum, a dedicated volunteer with Bugles Across America (BAA), recently reached out to introduce himself and the mission of this powerful nonprofit organization. Founded in 2000 by former U.S. Marine Tom Day, Bugles Across America was established to ensure that every veteran receives a live performance of TAPS, rather than a recording or electronic version, during their funeral or memorial service.
By public law, all honorably discharged veterans are entitled to military honors, which include a two-person honor guard to fold and present the U.S. flag and the sounding of TAPS. However, due to a critical nationwide shortage of military buglers, the traditional live performance is often replaced by a recording. BAA aims to restore the dignity of this moment by connecting families with more than 3,700 qualified volunteer buglers across the United States.
How to Request a Bugler
If you are planning services for a veteran, we encourage you to consider requesting a live bugler through Bugles Across America. The process is simple:
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Click the “Request a Bugler” button (you’ll see a rotating bugle icon).
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Fill out the form with as much detail as possible.
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The request will be automatically distributed to BAA buglers within a 100-mile radius and shared with local state and area directors.
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A bugler will follow up directly with the requestor to confirm availability.
This service is offered at no cost to the family or funeral home. BAA volunteers serve out of respect for our veterans and a shared commitment to honoring their service with the reverence it deserves.
Meet Your Local Contact
Joseph Baum is one of BAA’s active volunteers and is happy to answer any questions about the process or help guide families through the request. You can reach him directly at:
📧 bionicman@comcast.net
📞 215-657-9837
AFCCA deeply appreciates the work of organizations like Bugles Across America and volunteers like Joseph, who help preserve the honor and tradition of military service.