How to Get a Military Funeral
A military funeral, also known as a rites of passage ceremony, is a dignified and honors-worthy farewell to a loved one who has served their country. The process of planning and executing a military funeral can be complex and require coordination with various entities. In this article, we will guide you on how to get a military funeral, and outline the essential steps and requirements involved.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a military funeral, the individual who has passed away must be:
- A member of the United States Armed Forces, including active duty, Reserve, and National Guard components
- A veterans who has served at least one day of active military service
- A person who has been awarded certain military decorations or medals (see below)
Criteria for Military Funeral Eligibility
| Criteria | Award/Benefit |
|---|---|
| Active Military Service | Must have served at least one day of active military service |
| Military Decorations | Eligible for a military funeral with the following decorations/medals: |
| • Medal of Honor | |
| • Navy Cross (Marine Corps) or Army Distinguished Service Cross (Army) | |
| • Air Force Cross | |
| • Silver Star or equivalent | |
| Veterans Eligibility | Must have served at least one day of active military service |
| Eligible for Burial Benefits | Must have passed away while on active duty, or have received disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Eligible for Honors | Must have received an honorable discharge, or have been killed while engaged in combat or serving with a unit that is entitled to full honors |
How to Get a Military Funeral
To ensure that your loved one receives the honors and respect due to their service, it’s essential to follow the right procedures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get a military funeral:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Start by verifying the eligibility criteria listed above. Check for military decorations, medals, and awards, as well as the individual’s veteran status and discharge status. If the individual meets the eligibility criteria, you can proceed with the military funeral planning process.
Step 2: Contact the Military Funeral Provider
Reach out to your local Veterans Administration (VA) representative, or contact the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) at (800) 827-1000 or www.cem.va.gov to request assistance in arranging a military funeral.
Step 3: Arrange for Funeral Services
In conjunction with the military funeral provider, arrange for:
- Casket Flags: A casket flag will be provided for burial.
- 21-Gun Salute: An artillery salute will be provided if the individual meets specific eligibility criteria.
- Firing Party: An active-duty or retired member of the military will lead the firing party.
- Bugler: A bugler will play the taps during the ceremony, if available.
- Eulogy: Request that a military chaplain or a representative from a veteran’s organization provide the eulogy.
- Presentation of the American Flag: The flag will be presented to the next-of-kin or designated individual.
Step 4: Coordinate with the Burial Office
Contact the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) or the relevant State Veterans Cemetery to arrange for burial benefits. You may need to provide documentation, including the individual’s discharge certificate and death certificate.
Step 5: Verify Information
Confirm all information with the military funeral provider and burial office to ensure a smooth and respectful funeral ceremony.
Additional Military Funeral Benefits
In addition to the honors and rites provided during the funeral service, eligible individuals may be eligible for:
- Grave Registration: A standard headstone or grave marker will be provided for eligible veterans.
- Headstone or Marker Maintenance: The VA will assist in maintaining the headstone or marker.
- Presidential Memorial Certificate: A certificate will be sent to the next-of-kin or designated individual to recognize the individual’s military service.
Conclusion
Arranging a military funeral for a loved one requires coordination and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your loved one receives the honors and respect due to their military service. Remember to check the eligibility criteria, arrange for funeral services, and coordinate with the burial office to ensure a dignified farewell.
