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Veterans Overview

Veterans Honors — Headstones, Markers & Burial Flags

Compassionate guidance, clear options, and timely support.

What the (VA) Veterans Affairs Provides (At No Cost)

Government Headstones & Markers

  • Furnished at no charge for the unmarked grave of any eligible Veteran in any cemetery worldwide, regardless of date of death.
  • For Veterans who died on or after Nov. 1, 1990, the VA may also furnish a government headstone/marker even if a private one already exists (subject to cemetery approval).
  • Available styles (must match cemetery standards):
    • Flat markers: granite, marble, bronze
    • Upright headstones: granite, marble
    • Niche markers: for columbaria (cremation/inurnment)

Burial Flags

  • A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a Veteran who served honorably—to honor their military service.

Eligibility Snapshot

Headstones & Markers
  • Eligible Veterans (per VA criteria).
  • Style must be consistent with the cemetery’s rules and existing monuments.
Burial Flags (one flag issued per Veteran)

Provided for memorialization of:

  • A Veteran who served during wartime
  • A Veteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941
  • A Veteran who served after Jan. 31, 1955
  • A peacetime Veteran discharged or released before June 27, 1950
  • Certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines in service of the U.S., who died on or after Apr. 25, 1951
  • Certain former members of the Selected Reserves

Who receives the flag?

  • Generally, the next of kin.
  • If no next of kin, a friend may receive the flag upon request.
  • Families may donate the flag to an Avenue of Flags at participating VA national cemeteries for display on patriotic holidays.

How to Apply

National/State Veterans or Military Post/Base Cemeteries

Headstones & Markers

We will:

  • Confirm eligibility and cemetery requirements
  • Help you choose the proper style (flat/upright/niche)
  • Complete the application with your inscription details
  • Coordinate delivery and placement with the cemetery
  • Arrange installation (private cemeteries; setting fees apply)

Burial Flags

  • Complete VA Form 27-2008 (Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes).
  • Flags are available at VA regional offices and U.S. Post Offices.

We’ll obtain the flag for you as part of funeral arrangements whenever possible.

One-flag policy: By law, only one burial flag can be issued per Veteran. Lost/damaged flags cannot be reissued by the VA; however, some Veterans organizations/community groups may help you obtain a replacement keepsake flag.

Display guidance: Proper draping depends on whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 includes folding and display instructions. Burial flags are cotton and not suitable for outdoor display over time.

What You’ll Need (Checklist)

  • Veteran’s full legal name
  • Branch of service, rank (optional), service dates, VA claim number or SSN (if available)
  • Date of birth and date of death
  • Cemetery name/section (if assigned) and a cemetery contact (for private cemeteries)
  • Inscription preferences (religious emblem, awards/insignia, wording—subject to VA & cemetery rules)

We’ll review requirements and finalize inscriptions that meet VA and cemetery standards.

We’ll Handle the Details (Our Role)

We’ll review reWe’ll Handle the Details (Our Role)

  • Eligibility confirmation
  • Form preparation (including VA Form 27-2008 for burial flags)
  • Inscription selection and cemetery compliance
  • Ordering, delivery, and (if private cemetery) installation coordination
  • Timely, compassionate guidance throughout

Need help now? Call (856) 828-1269 — we’ll start today.quirements and finalize inscriptions that meet VA and cemetery standards.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • Is there any cost to the family?

    The headstone/marker and burial flag are furnished at no cost by the VA. In private cemeteries, families are responsible for setting/installation fees and any local placement costs.

  • Can we receive a VA headstone if a private marker already exists?

    Yes, if the Veteran died on or after Nov. 1, 1990, the VA may furnish a government headstone/marker even when a private one exists (subject to cemetery approval).

  • Can the VA replace a burial flag if it’s lost or damaged?

    No. The VA issues one flag for a Veteran’s funeral. Veterans organizations or community groups may help obtain a replacement keepsake.

  • What if our loved one was cremated?

    The VA provides niche markers for columbaria. We’ll confirm placement rules with the cemetery and assist with the application.

  • Are spouses/dependents eligible for a government headstone/marker?

    Only when buried in a national cemetery, state Veterans cemetery, or military post/base cemetery—per that cemetery’s policies.

Honoring service is our privilege. We’ll make the process clear, prompt, and respectful so your loved one’s legacy is marked with dignity.

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