Who is Eligible for a Military Funeral?
The United States offers a wide range of military funeral honors and burial benefits to deceased military service members, their spouses, and their families. One of the most respected and formal honors is a military funeral, also known as a "fiscal funeral honors ceremony." In this article, we will delve into the details of who is eligible for a military funeral, the requirements for the service, and the procedures for requesting a military funeral.
Who is Eligible for a Military Funeral?
Not everyone is eligible for a military funeral, but those who are are typically the following:
• Military Service Members: Any person who died while serving on active duty or honorably discharged from the military can receive a military funeral. This includes Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard service members.
• Veterans: Veterans who were discharged honorably, dishonorably, or under honorable conditions can receive a military funeral. However, some veterans with other than honorable discharges may still be eligible under certain circumstances.
• Surviving Spouses: Spouses of service members who died while serving on active duty or spouses of honorably discharged veterans are also eligible for a military funeral.
• Gold Star Family Members: Gold Star Family members are those who lost a service member due to hostile or combat-related action. Gold Star spouses and children may also be eligible for military funeral benefits.
What is the Criteria for a Military Funeral?
To be eligible for a military funeral, the following criteria must be met:
• Date of Death: The service member must have died after 1987. If the service member died between 1959 and 1987, their remains can still receive military burial, but without a military funeral ceremony.
• Discharge Status: The service member must have been discharged from the military honorably, dishonorably, or under honorable conditions. However, those with other than honorable discharges may still be eligible for a military funeral in some cases.
• Length of Service: The service member must have served for a minimum of 30 days of active duty or have honorable discharged after less than 30 days of active duty.
• Death Certificates: A death certificate from a recognized state or territory, as well as proof of relationship (such as a marriage certificate), may be required.
What to Expect at a Military Funeral?
A military funeral typically includes the following:
• Pallbearer and Flag- Folding: Honorably discharged service members from the local veterans service organization will fold the flag, and other veterans may participate as pallbearers.
• 21-Gun Salute: A 21-gun salute, conducted by an active duty military unit or veterans’ organization, to pay tribute to the service member.
• Eulogy or Tribute: A military officer or non-commissioned officer may deliver a eulogy or tribute to the service member, honoring their life and service.
• Military Taps: Buglers play Taps, a musical bugle call that marks the end of a soldier’s life and honors their service.
How to Request a Military Funeral?
To request a military funeral, the following steps must be taken:
- Death Notification: Report the service member’s death to their respective military branch’s casualty office, either by contacting them directly or through a funeral director.
- Documentation: Gather the required documents, such as a death certificate, proof of relationship, and discharge paperwork (DD-214).
- Requesting a Military Funeral: The next of kin or designated funeral representative should contact their local National Cemetery Scheduling Office (800-625-4977) to request a military funeral.
Benefits for Gold Star Families
Gold Star Families are also eligible for certain benefits, including:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Flag-Folding Ceremony | Honor guard flags will be folded and presented to the next of kin as a symbol of respect and appreciation for the service member’s sacrifice. |
| Headstone and Burial Allowance | A flag-covered casket will be presented at the grave, and a memorial headstone or marker will be installed in the service member’s burial site. |
| Survivor Benefits | Eligibility for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), and other benefits provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). |
In conclusion, military funerals are a special way to honor the sacrifice and service of our fallen heroes and their families. To be eligible for a military funeral, service members and their families must meet specific criteria and follow certain procedures.
