Burial Marker

Definition

A Burial Marker is a commemorative plaque or headstone provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs for deceased eligible service members and veterans. These markers are used to identify their graves, and can include inscriptions with the individual’s information, such as name, rank, military service, birth and death dates. The markers are typically made of government-furnished materials like granite, marble, or bronze and can be used in private cemeteries, national cemeteries, or state veterans’ cemeteries.

Key Takeaways

1. The Burial Marker benefit, provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), supplies grave markers and headstones to memorialize eligible veterans and service members who have passed away.
2. Veterans, armed forces members, and some dependents are eligible for the Burial Marker benefit, encompassing VA National Cemeteries or other locations worldwide where the deceased is interred.
3. To apply for a VA Burial Marker or Headstone, individuals can submit VA Form 40-1330, which is available online or from a VA office, to request the appropriate marker for the veteran or service member.

Importance

The VA benefits term “Burial Marker” is important because it plays a key role in honoring and commemorating the service and sacrifice of eligible veterans after their passing.

By availing this benefit, veterans and their families receive a government-funded headstone, marker, or medallion to identify the veteran’s grave in national, state veterans, private, or overseas cemeteries.

This ensures that the memory of the veteran’s contribution to their country is duly recognized and preserved.

Furthermore, the burial marker not only aids in providing a sense of dignity and closure to the bereaved family but also serves as an enduring symbol of gratitude from a nation that acknowledges the valor and commitment of its service members.

Explanation

The purpose of a burial marker within the realm of VA benefits is to provide a lasting and honorable tribute to the memory of deceased veterans who have served their country. These markers, offered in various forms such as flat markers, upright headstones, and niche markers, are meant to ensure that veterans’ final resting places are dignified and properly recognized for the sacrifices made during their service.

Providing these markers is a way for the government and the Department of Veterans Affairs to express their gratitude for the commitment and dedication exhibited by the men and women who have selflessly served in the U.S. Armed Forces protecting the nation and its people.

The respectful recognition of veterans’ burial sites through the provision of these burial markers helps to acknowledge their service to the nation and pay homage to their contributions, even after their passing. These markers serve as a visible reminder of the unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment of veterans; this not only allows the family members to honor the loved one’s memory but also kindles a sense of national pride.

Furthermore, burial markers provide a tangible connection for future generations to remember and reflect upon the selfless actions of those who served before them and inspire them to uphold these brave individuals’ values and patriotic spirit.

Examples of Burial Marker

The VA (Veterans Affairs) Benefits term “Burial Marker” refers to the headstones or markers provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for deceased veterans to commemorate their service. Below are three real-world examples of burial markers in the context of veterans and their families:

Private John Doe, a World War II veteran, passes away and is buried in his family’s plot in a local cemetery. His family applies to the VA for a burial marker. The VA then provides a bronze or granite marker for John Doe’s grave, which includes his name, rank, branch of service, years of service, and birth/death dates, at no cost to the family.

A widow named Jane Smith, whose husband had served in the Vietnam War and was buried in a national cemetery, realizes years later that her husband’s military service and sacrifices were not recognized on his existing headstone. She contacts the VA and requests a new burial marker to honor her husband’s service. The VA provides a new bronze marker to replace the existing headstone, which now bears her husband’s military information.

A local community group discovers an unmarked grave at an old, historic burial ground. It is determined that the individual was a Civil War veteran who never received a headstone or marker for his grave. The group contacts the VA, which provides an appropriate burial marker, honoring the service and sacrifice of this long-deceased veteran who previously lay in obscurity.These examples highlight the importance of the VA benefits for burial markers, ensuring the recognition of the deceased veterans for their service and sacrifices.

FAQs for VA Burial Markers

What is a VA burial marker?

A VA burial marker is a headstone, marker, or medallion provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to commemorate and honor eligible deceased Veterans’ service in the United States Armed Forces.

Who is eligible to receive a VA burial marker?

Veterans who have been discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable, service members who have died while on active duty, and certain eligible spouses and dependents are eligible to receive a VA burial marker.

What types of VA burial markers are available?

The VA provides various types of burial markers, including upright headstones, flat markers, and bronze medallions. The specific type of marker is based on the deceased’s burial location and the family’s preference, among other factors.

How do I request a VA burial marker?

To request a VA burial marker, you need to complete VA Form 40-1330 (Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker) or VA Form 40-1330M (Claim for Government Medallion). You can submit the form online through the VA’s webpage or mail it to the VA’s Memorial Products Service office.

What information do I need to provide when requesting a VA burial marker?

When requesting a VA burial marker, you will need to provide the deceased veteran’s full name, social security number, date of birth, date of death, and service number (if applicable). Moreover, you may need to include information about the type of marker desired, inscription, and the cemetery where the marker will be placed.

When will the VA burial marker be provided?

The VA usually provides the burial marker within 60-90 days of receiving the complete and accurate application. However, processing times may vary depending on the current workload and other factors affecting the VA’s production and delivery timeline.

Can I receive a VA burial marker if my loved one is already buried with a private headstone or marker?

Yes, you can still receive a VA burial marker if your loved one is already buried with a private headstone or marker. The VA can provide a marker to be affixed to the existing private headstone or marker or send a medallion that can be attached to the privately-purchased marker.

Related VA Benefit Terms

• Grave Headstone
• Memorial Plaque
• Niche Marker
• Upright Marker
• Flat Marker

Sources for More Information

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• Veterans Benefits Administration
• National Cemetery Administration
• The American Legion