Veteran Headstones

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides, upon request and at no cost to the applicant, a government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any eligible deceased veteran, in any cemetery worldwide, regardless of the date of death. For veterans who died on or after November 1, 1990, the VA may also furnish a headstone or marker even if the grave is already marked with a private monument. In these cases, applicants may choose a traditional headstone or marker, or a newer device introduced in spring 2009.

Available options include flat markers in granite, marble, or bronze, as well as upright headstones in granite and marble. The selected style must align with the existing monuments in that cemetery. Niche markers are also offered for marking columbaria used for inurned cremated remains.

When a burial or memorialization takes place in a national cemetery, state veterans’ cemetery, or military post/base cemetery, cemetery officials will order the appropriate headstone or marker. They will base the inscription on information provided by the next of kin or an authorized representative. Spouses and dependents are eligible for a government-furnished headstone or marker only when they are buried in a national cemetery, state veterans’ cemetery, or military post/base cemetery.

Note: There is no charge for the headstone or marker itself; however, placement in a private cemetery is the responsibility of the applicant, and all installation or setting fees must be paid privately.

Important Notice – New Law Concerning Eligibility for Headstones and Markers