How to Get a Military Funeral: A Comprehensive Guide
Losing a loved one is never easy, and the process of planning a funeral can be overwhelming. For military service members and veterans, their funeral is often a tribute to their service and a way to honor their legacy. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to get a military funeral, answering the question of what qualifications are required, the benefits of a military funeral, and the steps to make it happen.
Eligibility for a Military Funeral
To be eligible for a military funeral, the deceased must meet the following criteria:
- Be a member of the military who has died while in active duty or on reserve status
- Be a veteran who has served for at least 20 years
- Be a National Guard member who has been activated for federal service and has died while on federal duty
- Be a member of the Reserve component who has been activated and has died while on federal duty
Benefits of a Military Funeral
A military funeral offers several benefits, including:
- A 21-gun salute: A ceremonial salute fired by a firing party to pay respects to the deceased
- Taps: The playing of "Taps" by a bugler or recorded music to symbolize the end of watch
- Flag folding ceremony: A ceremonial folding and presentation of the American flag to the next of kin
- Graveside ceremonies: A ceremony conducted by a military chaplain, honor guard, or ceremonial team
- Military honor guard: A team of uniformed personnel who escort the casket and render honors during the funeral
Steps to Get a Military Funeral
To obtain a military funeral, the following steps must be taken:
- Notify the Military
Notify the Department of Defense (DoD) of the death. This can be done by contacting the nearest military identification office or the National Declassification Center.
Table: Notification Process
| Step | Contact | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Notifying the Military | National Declassification Center | (301) 667-1360 |
| 2. Notifying the Military | Military Identification Office | (800) 525-0102 |
- Obtain the DD Form 93
The DD Form 93, also known as the "Report of Death of Member of the United States Armed Forces," is required to initiate the burial process. This form must be completed and submitted to the DoD.
Table: DD Form 93 Requirements
| Requirement | Information Needed |
|---|---|
| 1. Service Number | The deceased’s social security number or military identification number |
| 2. Date of Birth | The deceased’s date of birth |
| 3. Date of Death | The deceased’s date of death |
| 4. Cause of Death | The cause of death as determined by the medical examiner or coroner |
- Apply for Burial Benefits
The next of kin must apply for burial benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The application can be submitted online or by mail.
Table: Burial Benefit Application
| Benefit | Eligibility | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Interment Allowance | Burial in a national cemetery or private cemetery | 2 years from date of death |
| Headstone or Marker | Burial in a national cemetery or private cemetery | 1 year from date of death |
| Presidential Memorial Certificate | Burial in a national cemetery or private cemetery | 1 year from date of death |
- Coordinate with the Funeral Home
The funeral home or mortuary will work with the military to coordinate the funeral services. The funeral director will ensure that all military honors are performed and will handle the logistics of the funeral.
Table: Funeral Home Responsibilities
| Responsibility | Funeral Home/Omortuary |
|---|---|
| Funeral Arrangements | Make arrangements for the funeral ceremony |
| Military Honors | Coordinate with the military for 21-gun salute, Taps, and honor guard |
| Burial Arrangements | Handle the logistics of the burial |
Conclusion
Getting a military funeral is a complex process that requires coordination between the military, the VA, and the funeral home. By understanding the eligibility criteria, benefits, and steps involved, families of military service members and veterans can ensure that their loved one receives the honors they deserve. Remember to notify the military, obtain the DD Form 93, apply for burial benefits, and coordinate with the funeral home to make the funeral planning process as smooth as possible.
