Veterans Burial Flags - Westside Cremation

Veteran Funeral Services

Veteran Burial Flags

A United States flag is provided at no charge to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a veteran who honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This gesture is a meaningful way to commemorate the veteran’s military service to the country. The VA supplies burial flags for memorialization in the following cases:

– A veteran who served during a time of war.

– A veteran who passed away while on active duty after May 27, 1941.

– A veteran who served after January 31, 1955.

– A peacetime veteran who was discharged or released prior to June 27, 1950.

– Certain individuals who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951.

– Certain former members of the Selected Reserve.

How Can You Apply?

You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director will help you obtain the flag.

How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?

The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather.

For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000

Veteran Headstones

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a valuable service by providing a government-issued headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any eligible veteran at no cost. This benefit extends globally, regardless of the veteran’s date of death, ensuring that their memory is honored in a dignified manner. For veterans who passed away on or after November 1, 1990, the VA may also supply a headstone or marker even if the grave already has a private marker. Applicants can choose between a traditional headstone or a new device, available since spring 2009, providing options that cater to individual preferences.

The VA offers various styles, including flat markers in granite, marble, and bronze, as well as upright headstones made from granite and marble. It’s important that the selected style aligns with the existing monuments in the burial area. Additionally, niche markers are available for columbaria, which are designed for the inurnment of cremated remains. When burial occurs in a national cemetery, state veterans’ cemetery, or military post/base cemetery, cemetery officials will order the headstone or marker based on the inscription details provided by the next of kin or an authorized representative. It’s essential to note that spouses and dependents are only eligible for a government-provided headstone or marker if they are buried in a national, state veterans’, or military cemetery. While the headstone or marker itself is provided free of charge, any arrangements for its placement in a private cemetery must be made by the applicant, with all associated setting fees being the applicant’s responsibility. Recent changes in laws may affect eligibility for headstones and markers, so it’s advisable for families to stay informed and consult the VA for the latest guidelines. This ensures that veterans receive the recognition and memorialization they deserve for their service to the nation.