The passing of a veteran or active service personnel is always a sad event as we have so much to thank them for their service, valor and sacrifice. Dyches Funeral & Crematory honors veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have served their country with the opportunity of a military funeral ceremony and burial.
The U.S. Department of Defense offers Military Funeral Honors at no cost to the family of veterans, based on the eligibility of a veteran, active duty or reserve member of the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, or Coast Guard. Dyches Funeral & Crematory can manage the process of a military burial and whenevera applicable, manage the arrangements for a
Eligibility for a military funeral ceremony under Veteran’s Benefits requires the individual to be a veteran that has been honorably discharged or released after completing their service in active or reserve duty. In addition, any member of the Armed Forces who dies while on active duty may also be eligible.
If you are planning for your future funeral arrangements or for a family member, we advise you to contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to determine eligibility for a military burial. You can always contact the VA by calling toll-free 800.827.1000.
Unbeknownst to most people, veterans’ death benefits are not paid automatically and it is the responsibility of the surviving family to make a claim. Before calling the VA, you must have a number of documents ready for submission with your claim, which include:
- An SSN for yourself and dependent children
- Enlisted Record and Report of Separation (Certified Copy of DD214)
- A copy (certified) of the official death certificate
- If applicable due to previous marriage, a copy of an original divorce or death certificate (if a widower/widow)
- A birth certificate for surviving children under 18 years of age
- Receipts for funeral and cemetery expenses
The Veterans Administration may cover the expense of a burial for an eligible veteran whose death is related to service by up to $2,000. We advise you to research and contact further eligibility and benefits as these may change or get updates from time to time by visiting the official VA benefits website at www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/factsheets.asp
Not sure of what to do? Contact Dyches Funeral Home and Crematory to learn more about veteran and military funerals by calling us at 803.259.7722.