Many families are unaware of the benefits that are available upon the passing of a loved one who was a veteran. Fortunately, our staff at Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory are aware of what benefits are available and how you can go about accepting them.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does a superb job of Veterans burial benefits if you use a National Cemetery for burial. However, the VA does not provide or pay for funeral or cremation arrangements, transportation or military honors. These can be arranged with our staff at Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes.
Burial benefits for veterans include a grave site in any of the country’s 131 national cemeteries, provided there is available space. Benefits also include the opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag and a Presidential Memorial Certificate, all at no cost to the family. Some veterans may also be eligible for a burial allowance. Cremated remains receive the same benefits and care as remains that are casketed.
Many don’t realize that burial benefits may also be available for spouses and dependents who are buried in a national cemetery, even if they pass before the veteran. These benefits include burial with the veteran and perpetual care. The spouse or dependents name will also be inscribed on the veteran’s headstone at a minimal cost to the family.
There are also benefits for veterans buried in a private cemetery. They may include a government headstone, marker or medallion, a burial flag and a Presidential Memorial Certificate, all at no cost to the family. In some cases, there may also be burial allowances available. There are no VA benefits available to spouses and dependents who are buried in a private cemetery.
If you are a veteran, you should be aware that grave sites in a national cemetery cannot be reserved in advance. Veteran’s should let their families know their wishes. They should also be aware that their discharge papers are critical in applying for benefits so they should make family members aware of where these important papers are kept.
Families should know that upon their request, every eligible Veteran can receive a military funeral honors ceremony. This ceremony includes folding and presenting the United States burial flag and the playing of Taps. A military honors detail is defined as two or more uniformed military persons, with at least one being a member of the veteran’s parent service of the armed forces. This service should be requested by the funeral home. At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we would be honored to assist in arranging this service.
If you have any questions regarding veteran’s funeral benefits available for a loved one, please contact us. Our staff is here to assist you.
