"A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself." - Joseph Campbell

When a veteran passes away, it's a time to honor their service and sacrifice. One way to do this is through a military funeral honors ceremony, a tribute mandated by law and provided free of charge to eligible veterans' families. These ceremonies offer a powerful and moving way to recognize the dedication and bravery of those who have served our country.

Who Is Eligible for Military Funeral Honors?

To receive military funeral honors, the deceased veteran must meet specific criteria. They must have been:

• A military member on active duty or in the Selected Reserve

• A former military member who served on active duty and departed under conditions other than dishonorable

• A former military member who completed at least one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and departed under conditions other than dishonorable

• A former military member discharged from the Selected Reserve due to a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty

How to Request Military Funeral Honors

If you believe your loved one is eligible for military funeral honors, the first step is to contact your funeral director. They will guide you through the process and help gather the necessary documentation. The funeral director will then coordinate with the appropriate military branch to arrange the details of the honors.

Providing Proof of Service

To verify eligibility, you'll need to provide a copy of the veteran's DD-214, Certificate of Release, or Discharge from Active Duty. This form is available online through the National Archives. If you don't have access to the DD-214, any discharge document indicating service other than dishonorable can be used to initiate the process.

What to Expect at a Military Funeral Honors Ceremony

In a future article, we'll delve deeper into the specifics of military funeral honors ceremonies, outlining what you can expect to see at the service. These ceremonies typically include elements such as the playing of Taps, the folding and presentation of the American flag, and the presence of a military honor guard.

Contact Us for Guidance and Support

If you're interested in learning more about military funeral honors for your loved one, please don't hesitate to contact one of our experienced funeral directors. We're here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and ensure your loved one receives the honorable farewell they deserve.