Can a Spouse be Buried in a Military Cemetery?
The answer to this question is a resounding "yes," but with some limitations and requirements. Military cemeteries are not just for the fallen soldiers, but also for their loved ones. In this article, we will explore the guidelines and regulations surrounding the burial of spouses in military cemeteries.
General Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for burial in a military cemetery are established by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the individual military services. To be eligible, the spouse must have been married to a veteran or military member at the time of their death. Additionally, the spouse must not have remarried after the veteran’s death.
Eligibility for Spousal Burial in a National Cemetery
National Cemeteries are managed by the VA and are the most common type of military cemetery. To be eligible for burial in a National Cemetery, the spouse must meet the following requirements:
- Be a spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the National Cemetery
- Meet the eligibility criteria for the specific National Cemetery (see below)
- Not have remarried after the veteran’s death
Table: Eligibility Criteria for National Cemeteries
| National Cemetery | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Alexandria National Cemetery | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| Arlington National Cemetery | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| Barrancas National Cemetery | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| and many others… | and many others… |
Eligibility for Spousal Burial in a Military Post Cemetery
Military Post Cemeteries are managed by the individual military services (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps) and are typically located on or near military bases. To be eligible for burial in a Military Post Cemetery, the spouse must meet the following requirements:
- Be a spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery
- Meet the eligibility criteria for the specific Military Post Cemetery (see below)
- Not have remarried after the veteran’s death
Table: Eligibility Criteria for Military Post Cemeteries
| Military Post Cemetery | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Fort Logan National Cemetery (Army) | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Air Force) | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| Arlington National Cemetery (Army) | Spouse of a veteran or military member who is buried or memorialized in the cemetery |
| and many others… | and many others… |
Applying for Spousal Burial
To apply for spousal burial in a military cemetery, you will need to:
- Gather required documents (e.g., marriage certificate, death certificate, discharge papers)
- Complete an application form (available online or at the cemetery)
- Submit the application to the cemetery or the appropriate military service
What to Expect
If your application is approved, you can expect:
- A gravesite in a designated area of the cemetery
- A headstone or marker with the spouse’s name and dates of birth and death
- A burial ceremony, if desired
- Maintenance of the gravesite for the remainder of the spouse’s lifetime
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, a spouse can be buried in a military cemetery, but with certain requirements and limitations. By understanding the eligibility criteria and applying for spousal burial, you can ensure that your loved one is laid to rest in a beautiful and meaningful setting. Remember to check with the specific cemetery or military service for their specific guidelines and regulations.
