Yes, eligible veterans can indeed receive military funeral honors as part of their burial, a solemn tribute to their service. This honor is a guaranteed right for eligible service members, ensuring a dignified farewell that reflects their commitment to the nation.
What Are Military Funeral Honors?
Military funeral honors are a time-honored ceremony performed at the graveside or memorial service of an eligible veteran. They serve as a final tribute to their dedication and sacrifice. These ceremonies are typically performed by an honor guard detail consisting of at least two uniformed military members, with at least one representing the deceased's branch of service.
The provision of these honors is not merely a custom but a legal mandate. Public Law 106-65 requires that every eligible veteran receive a military funeral honors ceremony upon the family's request. This ensures that all who have served honorably are given a proper and respectful send-off.
Eligibility for Military Honors
To be eligible for military funeral honors, the deceased must meet specific criteria. Generally, eligibility extends to:
- Active Duty and Selected Reserve Members: Service members currently serving on active duty or in the Selected Reserve.
- Former Military Members: Individuals who served on active duty and left under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Former Members of the Selected Reserve: Those who completed at least one enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and left under conditions other than dishonorable.
Families typically verify eligibility by providing the veteran's discharge papers (DD Form 214) to the funeral director.
Components of a Military Funeral Honors Ceremony
A standard military funeral honors ceremony includes several key elements designed to convey respect and gratitude:
- Flag Folding and Presentation: A U.S. burial flag is meticulously folded into a tri-cornered shape and presented to the veteran's next of kin, often accompanied by words of gratitude for their service.
- Playing of Taps: The solemn bugle call, "Taps," is played, signifying the end of the day and, symbolically, the end of a soldier's life.
- Two-Person Honor Guard: As mandated, a minimum of two uniformed military personnel perform the ceremony.
Additional elements may be included depending on the availability of resources and the desires of the family, such as a rifle volley.
Requesting Military Funeral Honors
The process for requesting military funeral honors is typically handled by the funeral director. They will work with the family to:
- Verify Eligibility: Provide the veteran's official discharge document (DD Form 214 or equivalent) to the funeral director. This document confirms the veteran's honorable service.
- Contact the Appropriate Service Branch: The funeral director will contact the military service branch of the deceased to arrange for the honor guard detail.
- Coordinate Details: Work with the family to specify the date, time, and location of the ceremony.
It is advisable to notify the funeral director as early as possible to allow ample time for arrangements.
National Cemeteries and Veterans' Burial Benefits
While military funeral honors are a distinct ceremony, they often accompany other burial benefits for eligible veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides various benefits for burial in national cemeteries, including:
- Grave Site: A gravesite in any of the 155 national cemeteries with available space.
- Opening and Closing of the Grave: Including perpetual care of the gravesite.
- Headstone or Marker: A government-furnished headstone or marker.
- Presidential Memorial Certificate: An engraved paper certificate signed by the current President.
- Burial Flag: A U.S. flag to drape the casket or accompany the urn, which is then presented to the next of kin.
Families can learn more about these benefits and locate national cemeteries through the National Cemetery Administration website. The Department of Defense also provides comprehensive information on military funeral honors.
