Choosing The Right Funeral Home

Planning Your Loved One's Military Funeral? 4 Steps To Take To Ensure They Receive The Honor They Deserve

12 October 2016

Derek Murphy

If your loved one recently passed away, and they were a veteran of the US armed forces, you'll want to make sure that they receive the full honors that they're entitled to. Planning funeral services for a military veteran is slightly different than planning other types of funerals. There are certain steps you'll need to take to ensure that your loved one receives a complete and honorable funeral. Here are four steps that will help you make your loved one's final burial arrangements.

Provide Military Service Documentation

When you go in to make final arrangements for your loved one, you'll need to provide military service documentation. This documentation verifies that your loved one served in the military, and was honorably discharged. These forms are necessary in order to provide burial accommodations at all national and state veterans cemeteries. In most cases, you'll need to provide the Report of Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States – or DD-214. If you don't have access to that form, you can request it from your local VA regional office.

Make Formal Request for Burial Flag

When a veteran of the US military is buried, their casket is draped with the US flag. If you would like your loved one to receive a flag-draped casket, you'll need to make a formal request to your local VA regional office. You'll need to submit VA Form 12-2008. This form will ensure that you receive a US flag for your loved one.

Schedule Military Honor Guard

In addition to the US flag, your veteran will also be entitled to representation by a US military honor guard. The honor guard will represent the military as your loved one is laid to rest. In addition, they'll also conduct a flag ceremony, in which the burial flag will be folded and presented to the next of kin. The honor guard will need to be scheduled as soon as final arrangements are made.

Provide Military Uniform and Medals

If you've decided to bury your loved one in their military uniform, you'll need to deliver it to the funeral home as soon as possible. Be sure to attach any medals or ribbons that your loved one has earned. If you're unable to locate the appropriate medals and ribbons, you can provide your local VA regional office with a copy of your loved one's discharge papers and they will assist you in obtaining those items.

If your loved one was a veteran of the US military, you want their funeral to honor that service. The tips provided here will help ensure that your loved one receives the honorable funeral that they deserve. Be sure to speak to your funeral home family counselor for assistance in obtaining services for your loved one.

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