Veterans Services

Many of us take our freedoms for granted, but our staff at  proudly acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who have served our country through their patriotism, love of country and willingness to protect others.

Our staff is committed to providing quality service and professional assistance to help families complete the necessary forms to obtain benefits that are provided through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs for deceased veterans.

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Burials for veterans are ceremonies that honor and commemorate their service to their country in more detail. These ceremonies often take place in national cemeteries or designated sections of public cemeteries reserved for veterans. Veterans are entitled to several benefits as part of their burial arrangements. These benefits typically include a gravesite, a marker or headstone to identify their final resting place, a burial flag to drape over the casket or accompany the urn, and in some cases, a burial allowance to assist with funeral expenses.


The ceremonies themselves are steeped in tradition and symbolism, reflecting the respect and gratitude owed to those who served in the military. Military honors are a central part of these ceremonies and may include a rifle salute, where a firing party fires three volleys in unison, symbolizing honor and respect for the deceased. The melody of  "Taps", played by a bugler or recorded, serves as a poignant farewell to the departed. Additionally, the presentation of the flag to the next of kin is a solemn moment, symbolizing the nation's gratitude and acknowledging the family's sacrifice.


These burials not only provide a final resting place for veterans but also serve as a powerful tribute to their sacrifices and contributions to their nation. They offer solace to grieving families and ensure that the memory of the veteran lives on in the collective memory of the nation.


What are VA burial benefits and memorial items?

The VA burial benefits are designed to assist service members, veterans, and their families plan and pay for a burial or memorial service in a VA national cemetery. Memorial items are provided through the Veterans Affairs to honor the service of those who have served the country.

Who qualifies for burial benefits and burial in a national cemetery?

Veterans, service members, spouses, and dependents may be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, as well as other benefits, if they meet one of the requirements listed below:

  • A veteran who didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge


  • A service member who died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty for training


  • The spouse or minor child of a veteran, even if the veteran died first


  • In some cases, the unmarried adult dependent child of a veteran

What are military funeral honors and a committal service?

Military funeral honors include the playing of “Taps,” a rifle detail, a color guard and uniformed service members who properly fold and present the United States flag to the grieving family. Not all veterans will be eligible for the full honor guard.

How do I know if I will receive a flag for my veteran?

United States flags are typically given to the deceased’s next of kin or close friend. In order for the survivors to qualify to receive the burial flag, the veteran or reservist must be described by at least one of the following:

  • Served in wartime
  • Died while serving on active duty after May 27, 1941
  • Served after January 31, 1955
  • Served in peacetime and left military service before June 27, 1950, after serving at least one enlistment or because of a disability that was caused - or made worse - by their active military service
  • Served in the Selected Reserves, or served in the military forces of the Philippines while in service of the United States and died on or after April 25, 1951.

What are burial benefits and how do I apply?

The veterans death benefits help cover the burial, funeral and transportation costs associated with the deceased’s services and disposition. For those being buried in a national cemetery, survivors may receive assistance with the burial and funeral costs, the plot or internment, and the transporting of the veteran’s remains for burial.

You must file a claim for a non-service-connected burial allowance within two years after the veteran’s burial or cremation. There is no time limit to file for a service-connected burial, plot or interment allowance.
You can apply online at https://www.va.gov/burials-and-memorials/application/530/introduction or by mail after completing the VA Form 21P-530.
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A veteran who didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge or a service member who died while on active duty may be eligible for a headstone or marker if they meet certain requirements. To find out if your deceased loved one qualifies, visit https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/headstones-markers-medallions/ 
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The Department of Veteran Affairs also provides a headstone for unmarked graves of an eligible deceased veteran at no charge. To request a headstone, grave marker, or niche marker, fill out the VA Form 10-1330 and send to:
Department of Veteran Affairs
5109 Russell Road
Quantico, VA 22134-3909 

For more information regarding VA burial benefits and memorial items, visit https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/ or contact the VA office at 1-800-827-1000.

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