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How to get a veterans grave marker?

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

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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:

  1. 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)
  2. 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.
  3. 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/).

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 NeededForm FieldSample Response
Full NameLine 1John F. Smith
Date of BirthLine 2August 10, 1945
Date of DeathLine 3March 10, 2020
Military ServiceLine 4US Army, 1968-1970
Discharge/ Separation DocumentLine 5DD Form 214, Honorable Discharge
Social Security NumberLine 6XXX-XX-1234
Cemetery InformationLine 7-10Arlington 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.

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