Can Spouses of Veterans be Buried in National Cemeteries?
Contents
Introduction
The National Cemeteries are a revered symbol of respect and gratitude towards the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. With over 130 national cemeteries spread across the country, these final resting places provide a peaceful and dignified place for veterans and their loved ones to be laid to rest. But what about the spouses of veterans? Can they too be buried in these hallowed grounds? In this article, we will delve into the answers and explore the options available to spouses of veterans when it comes to being buried in national cemeteries.
Eligibility for Spousal Burial in National Cemeteries
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the following spouses of veterans are eligible for burial in a national cemetery:
- Widows and Widowers: The spouse of a veteran who died in the line of duty or as a result of a service-connected disability is eligible for burial in a national cemetery.
- Unremarried Surviving Spouses: The unremarried surviving spouse of a veteran who died of any cause is eligible for burial in a national cemetery.
- Remarried Surviving Spouses: The remarried surviving spouse of a veteran who died of any cause is eligible for burial in a national cemetery if they can prove that they were remarried before the date of their spouse’s death.
It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific national cemetery and the state where the cemetery is located.
Documentation Requirements
To be eligible for burial in a national cemetery, the spouse of a veteran will need to provide documentation that proves their relationship to the veteran. This typically includes:
- Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of the marriage certificate, which must be signed and sealed by the appropriate state or local authority.
- Death Certificate: A certified copy of the veteran’s death certificate.
- VA Form 10-2641: This form, also known as the "Application for Headstone or Marker Benefits," can be used to establish eligibility for burial in a national cemetery.
Burial Options in National Cemeteries
National cemeteries offer a range of burial options, including:
- Traditional Burial: A full-length grave with a headstone and a marker.
- Cremation: Cremated remains can be buried in a cremation grave or columbarium.
- Special Burial: Some national cemeteries offer special burial options, such as in-ground casket burial or above-ground niche burial.
Additional Information and Tips
- Pre-Planning: The VA recommends that veterans and their spouses pre-plan their burial arrangements to ensure that all necessary documentation and paperwork are completed in advance.
- Burial Allowance: The VA provides a burial allowance to help offset the costs of burial, including the cost of a headstone and marker.
- National Cemetery Schedules: National cemeteries have specific schedules and procedures for burials, which may include limited visiting hours and restrictions on cemetery grounds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Can spouses of veterans be buried in national cemeteries?" is yes, but with certain conditions and requirements. By understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and burial options, spouses of veterans can plan their final resting place with dignity and respect.
