How to Get a Veteran’s Grave Marker
Honor the memory of a deceased loved one who served in the United States military by requesting a veteran’s grave marker from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides headstones and markers to commemorate the final resting places of eligible veterans. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a veteran’s grave marker.
Eligibility Requirements
Before requesting a grave marker, ensure that the deceased is eligible for a VA marker. To be eligible, the veteran must have:
• Been discharged or separated from the military under honorable conditions
• Served in the military for at least 24 months (Active Duty) or 1 year and 1 day (National Guard or Reserve)
• Died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected injury or disease
• Have a discharge or separation documentation showing an honorable discharge
• Have a valid social security number
Types of Grave Markers
The VA offers several types of grave markers, including:
• Flat Headstone: A flat, gray granite marker with the veteran’s name, date of birth, date of death, and military information.
• Upright Headstone: A standing, gray granite headstone with the veteran’s name, date of birth, date of death, and military information.
• Marker for Cremated Remains: A marker specifically designed for veterans who have been cremated, featuring the veteran’s name, date of birth, date of death, and military information.
• Bronze Marker: A bronze marker with a flag holder and the veteran’s name, date of birth, date of death, and military information.
How to Request a Grave Marker
To request a grave marker, follow these steps:
- Gather Required Information:
- Full name of the deceased veteran
- Date of birth and date of death
- Military service branch and dates of service
- Discharge or separation documentation showing an honorable discharge
- Social security number
- Cemetery information (cemetery name, address, and plot number)
- Complete the Request Form:
- VA Form 40-1330, Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker: This form can be downloaded from the VA website or obtained from the local VA office or a national cemetery.
- Fill out the form carefully, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
- Sign and date the form.
- Submit the Request:
- Mail or fax the completed form to the VA’s Memorial Programs Service:
- Memorial Programs Service (41A1)
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- 8257 Parklawn Drive
- Alexandria, VA 22308-3202
- Fax: (847) 884-1892
- Note: You can also submit the request online through the VA’s Website (www.va.gov/memorials-grave-maintenance/).
- Mail or fax the completed form to the VA’s Memorial Programs Service:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to receive a grave marker?
A: It typically takes 1-2 weeks to produce and ship the marker. Delivery time may vary depending on the cemetery’s policies.
Q: Can I personalize the grave marker with a special message or photo?
A: No, VA grave markers are limited to the standard information listed on the form (name, date of birth, date of death, and military information).
Q: Are there any costs associated with requesting a grave marker?
A: No, the VA provides grave markers at no cost to eligible veterans and their families.
Additional Resources
• VA Website: Visit the VA’s website at www.va.gov for more information on grave markers, burial benefits, and other veterans’ services.
• National Cemetery Administration: The VA’s National Cemetery Administration (NCA) manages and operates national cemeteries. You can find a list of national cemeteries and their contact information on the VA website.
By following these steps and eligibility requirements, you can request a veteran’s grave marker to honor the memory of a deceased loved one who served in the United States military. Remember to submit your request accurately and promptly to ensure timely delivery and placement of the marker.
Table: Grave Marker Request Form
Information Needed | Form Field | Sample Response |
---|---|---|
Full Name | Line 1 | John F. Smith |
Date of Birth | Line 2 | August 10, 1945 |
Date of Death | Line 3 | March 10, 2020 |
Military Service | Line 4 | US Army, 1968-1970 |
Discharge/ Separation Document | Line 5 | DD Form 214, Honorable Discharge |
Social Security Number | Line 6 | XXX-XX-1234 |
Cemetery Information | Line 7-10 | Arlington National Cemetery, 1st St & Memorial Dr, Arlington, VA 22211, Plot #1234 |
Conclusion
The VA’s grave marker program provides a meaningful way to honor the memory of a deceased loved one who served in the United States military. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can request a grave marker and ensure that the final resting place of a veteran is marked with dignity and respect.