Honoring Our Heroes: A Guide to Veteran Burial Options in Pennsylvania

For families in Pennsylvania facing the difficult task of planning a veteran's funeral, ensuring a dignified and honorable final resting place is a paramount concern. VeteranFunerals understands the profound respect and gratitude owed to those who have served our nation. This guide aims to provide clear, empathetic, and detailed information about veteran burial options in Pennsylvania, helping families navigate the process with clarity and confidence during a challenging time.

Understanding Veteran Cemeteries in Pennsylvania: Federal vs. State

When discussing "State Veteran Cemeteries," it's important to clarify the system in Pennsylvania. Unlike some other states that operate their own distinct state veteran cemeteries, Pennsylvania primarily utilizes the federal National Cemetery Administration (NCA) system for veteran burials. This means that while other states might have "Pennsylvania State Veteran Cemeteries," the primary and most comprehensive option for veterans in the Commonwealth is through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery system.

The centerpiece of this system for Pennsylvania veterans is Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, located in Annville, PA. This solemn and beautiful cemetery provides a sacred final resting place, offering plots for eligible veterans, their spouses, and certain dependents. The National Cemetery Administration is committed to providing a perpetual resting place for our nation's heroes, ensuring that their service is never forgotten. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) serves as a valuable state-level resource, assisting veterans and their families in understanding and accessing these federal benefits.

Eligibility Requirements for Burial in a National Cemetery (Applicable to PA Veterans)

Eligibility for burial in a VA National Cemetery like Fort Indiantown Gap is determined by federal law. Understanding these requirements is crucial for planning.

Who is Eligible?

• Veterans: Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who dies on active duty, or any veteran who was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
  • Minimum service requirements may apply depending on the era of service (e.g., specific dates for Reservists/National Guard members). Generally, continuous active duty service for other than training purposes is required.
  • A common misconception is that all veterans automatically qualify. The key is an honorable discharge (or general discharge under honorable conditions).
• Spouses: The spouse of an eligible veteran (even if they remarry) is eligible for burial in the same grave site, regardless of whether the veteran is already buried there or not.
• Minor Children: Unmarried children under 21 years of age, or under 23 years of age if pursuing a full-time course of instruction at an approved educational institution.
• Permanently Incapacitated Adult Children: Unmarried adult children who became permanently physically or mentally incapacitated from earning a living before reaching 21 years of age, or 23 years of age if they were full-time students.

Required Documentation:

To establish eligibility, families will typically need to provide:

• DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty): This is the most crucial document. It verifies the veteran's service dates, character of service (e.g., honorable), and other vital information. If this document is not readily available, the PA DMVA can assist in obtaining it.
• Death Certificate: For both the veteran and the spouse (if applicable).
• Marriage Certificate: To establish spousal relationship.
• Birth Certificates: For eligible minor or dependent adult children.

It's highly recommended to gather these documents well in advance through the VA's Pre-Need Eligibility Determination program, which can ease the burden during a time of grief.

The Burial Process: Planning and Procedures for Pennsylvania Veterans

Planning a veteran's burial can be simplified by understanding the steps involved with the National Cemetery Administration system.

1. Pre-Need Eligibility Determination (Highly Recommended):

   • Veterans and their spouses can apply for a "pre-need" determination of eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery. This means the VA determines and confirms eligibility before the need arises.
   • This process does not reserve a plot but provides peace of mind that eligibility is confirmed, significantly streamlining arrangements at the time of death.
   • Applications can be submitted online through the VA website or with the assistance of the PA DMVA or a funeral director.

2. At-Need Application and Coordination:

   • At the time of death, the family or their chosen funeral home will contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office (1-800-535-1117) to arrange for burial.
   • The funeral home typically handles most of the coordination with the cemetery, including verifying eligibility, scheduling the interment, and submitting necessary paperwork.
   • Ensure the funeral home you choose is experienced in working with national cemeteries and veteran burial benefits. VeteranFunerals can help you find such providers.

3. Services Provided at No Cost:

   • For eligible veterans, spouses, and dependents, the VA provides the following services at no cost in a national cemetery:
     • A gravesite (casket or cremation urn).
     • Opening and closing of the grave.
     • A grave liner for casketed remains.
     • A headstone or grave marker (standard government issue, inscribed with name, rank, branch of service, dates of birth and death).
     • Perpetual care of the gravesite.
     • A Presidential Memorial Certificate.
     • A U.S. burial flag.

4. Military Funeral Honors:

   • Upon request, eligible veterans are also entitled to military funeral honors, which typically include a minimum of two uniformed service members, presentation of the flag, and the playing of Taps. These honors are coordinated by the funeral home with the Department of Defense.

5. Interment Options:

   • National cemeteries accommodate both casketed and cremated remains. Specific areas for cremation interments are often available.

Important Things to Know for PA Veteran Families

• Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery is a federal cemetery: While referred to in the context of "State Veteran Cemeteries in Pennsylvania," it operates under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.
• No Cost for Burial Services: The burial plot, opening and closing of the grave, grave liner, headstone/marker, and perpetual care in a national cemetery are provided at no cost to eligible veterans and their families.
• Funeral Home Costs are Separate: While the cemetery plot and associated services are free, costs associated with the funeral home (e.g., embalming, cremation services, viewing, hearse, funeral ceremony) are the responsibility of the family.
• DD Form 214 is Paramount: Having the veteran's discharge papers readily available is the most critical step in establishing eligibility.
• Pre-Need Application is Highly Recommended: Applying for a pre-need eligibility determination can significantly reduce stress and logistical challenges for families during a time of loss.
• Spouses and Eligible Dependents Included: The benefit extends to the veteran's spouse and certain dependent children, ensuring families can remain together.
• Perpetual Care Guaranteed: All national cemeteries provide perpetual care, ensuring the grounds remain pristine and respectful tributes to those interred there.
• Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is a Resource: The PA DMVA can assist families with obtaining military records, understanding benefits, and navigating the application process for federal veteran burial benefits.
• VA Burial Benefits: In addition to the cemetery services, the VA may provide burial and plot allowances to help cover certain funeral and burial costs for eligible veterans.

At VeteranFunerals, we are dedicated to helping you honor your loved one's service. We hope this guide provides a clear roadmap for understanding veteran burial options in Pennsylvania, allowing you to make informed decisions with peace of mind.