PLANNING A
VETERAN’S FUNERAL
Honoring those who served.Helping Families Honor Military Service
Recognizing service, sacrifice, and patriotism.
We are deeply honored when we can express our sincere gratitude to our neighbors who have faithfully defended our country in times of war and peace. We work hard to ensure servicemen and women receive the benefits and honors they are entitled to, and take great pride in helping families plan a final tribute that acknowledges their sacrifices and patriotism.
Military Funeral Honors
The standard Military Funeral Honors ceremony includes the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the veteran’s family and the playing of Taps. When a live bugler is not available, a recorded version of Taps is used. The honors are carried out by a funeral detail of at least two members of the Armed Forces.
Burial Flags
The Veterans Benefits Administration provides an American flag, at no cost, to drape over the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran. This flag, which honors a veteran’s service, is then presented to the family after the service.
Headstones and Markers
The Department of Veterans Affairs furnishes, upon request and at no charge, a government headstone or marker for eligible veterans. We help families complete the application—requiring only a copy of the veteran’s DD214 (Military Discharge Papers). Delivery usually takes 1–3 months. Headstones and markers are available in bronze, granite, or marble, in both flat and upright styles, and may include the veteran’s name, branch of service, dates, rank, awards, religious emblem, and war served.
Burial Benefits
for Maryland Residents
Veterans who were Maryland residents and received an honorable discharge—and their eligible dependents—may be buried in one of the state’s five veterans’ cemeteries at no cost. This includes the burial plot, opening and closing, headstone, and liner (if used). Veterans can also pre-register through the pre-interment program to confirm eligibility and reserve a place in advance.
Personalization
Families may also choose to further honor their loved one with military symbols, a branch crest inscription on the casket, or embroidered flag and service emblems inside the casket lid.
Cemeteries
Military funerals may take place in a private cemetery, a state veterans’ cemetery, or a national veterans’ cemetery. Veterans from all military branches qualify, regardless of rank or combat service. This includes those who served on active duty, in the Reserves, or the National Guard.
For families of service members who die while on active duty, the Department of Veterans Affairs provides both burial and interment allowances to help with funeral costs. For non-service-related deaths, partial reimbursements may be available.
Arlington National
Cemetery
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Cemeteries
Maryland Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Program
Benefits, Honors, and Heartfelt Gratitude
Every day of the year, 24 hours a day.
Funeral planning can feel like a lot to manage. We’re here to help, providing guidance, clarity, and support at every step. We would be honored to help you make arrangements for any combination of traditional military tributes.