Does National Guard Get Military Funeral?
When a National Guard member passes away, their family often wonders about the funeral options available to them. Yes, National Guard members are entitled to a military funeral, just like active-duty military personnel. In this article, we’ll explore the details of the funeral process and the benefits that National Guard families are eligible for.
Who is eligible for a National Guard military funeral?
To be eligible for a National Guard military funeral, the following criteria must be met:
- The National Guard member must have completed at least 180 days of active duty service to qualify for a military funeral.
- The National Guard member must have been awarded a combat or non-combat badge or ribbon during their military service.
- The National Guard member must have received an honorable discharge or have a certificate of discharge.
- The National Guard member must have died while serving in the National Guard, or they must have been discharged or retired from the National Guard.
Benefits of a National Guard military funeral
National Guard members who qualify for a military funeral are entitled to several benefits, including:
• Honor Guard participation: The National Guard will provide an Honor Guard team to perform a 21-gun salute, play "Taps," and fold the flag during the funeral service.
• Headstone and marker: The National Guard will provide a government-funded headstone and marker for the grave, which can be inscribed with the member’s military rank and dates of service.
• Burial in a national cemetery: National Guard members are eligible for burial in a national cemetery, such as Arlington National Cemetery or the Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado.
• Reimbursement for funeral expenses: The National Guard will reimburse families for up to $2,000 in funeral expenses, such as cremation costs, funeral director fees, and burial plots.
• Flag presentation: The National Guard will present the flag to the family during the funeral service, and will also provide a flag that can be flown at the grave.
The process of requesting a National Guard military funeral
If a National Guard member has passed away and the family wants to arrange a military funeral, the following steps can be taken:
- Notify the National Guard: The family should contact the National Guard unit or the individual’s commanding officer to report the death.
- Obtain necessary documentation: The family will need to provide the National Guard with the individual’s military records, discharge papers, and a death certificate.
- Choose a funeral home: The family can choose any funeral home they prefer, but must ensure that it is certified by the Veterans Administration.
- Coordinate with the National Guard: The National Guard will work with the family and the funeral home to coordinate the details of the funeral service.
Table: National Guard Military Funeral Process
| Step | Responsibility | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Notify the National Guard | Immediate |
| 2 | Obtain necessary documentation | 2-3 business days |
| 3 | Choose a funeral home | ASAP |
| 4 | Coordinate with the National Guard | 2-3 weeks |
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Guard members who qualify for a military funeral are entitled to a range of benefits, including Honor Guard participation, headstone and marker, burial in a national cemetery, reimbursement for funeral expenses, and flag presentation. The process of requesting a National Guard military funeral is straightforward, and the family should contact the National Guard unit or commanding officer to initiate the process. With the help of the National Guard and the funeral home, families can ensure that their loved one receives a dignified and respectful military funeral.
Additional Resources
For more information on National Guard military funerals, families can contact:
- National Guard Funeral Honors: (800) 556-9495
- Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Scheduling Office: (800) 535-1117
- National Guard Family Programs: (877) 654-4225
Final thoughts
It’s essential to note that the National Guard military funeral process can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the death and the location of the funeral. Families are encouraged to contact the National Guard and VA for guidance and support during this difficult time. With the proper planning and coordination, families can ensure that their loved one receives a military funeral that honors their service and sacrifice.
