The rendering of Military Honors is a way to show the Nation's deep gratitude to those who, in times of war and peace, have faithfully defended our country. Our funeral directors are fully prepared to help in any way they can.
What is new about Military Funeral Honors?
Military Funeral Honors have always been provided whenever possible.
However, the law now mandates the rendering of Military Funeral Honors
for an eligible veteran if requested by the family. As provided by law, an
honor guard detail for the burial of an eligible veteran shall consist of not
less than two members of the Armed Forces. The honor detail will, at a minimum, perform
a ceremony that includes the folding and presentation of the American flag to the next
of kin and the playing of Taps. Taps will be played by a bugler, if available, or by
electronic recording.
Who is eligible?
- Military members on active duty.
- Military retirees.
- Members and former members of the Selected Reserves.
- Eligible U.S. veterans of any war.
- U.S. veterans who served at least one term of enlistment and separated under conditions other than dishonorable.
Who is not eligible?
Some veterans are not eligible for funeral honors. This includes, for example,
those discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions or individuals
sentenced to death or life imprisonment without parole for a federal or state capital offense.
If you have eligibility questions, talk to your Service point of contact. Further clarification
on reliability is available at: www.militaryfuneralhonors.osd.mil
Who is eligible to be buried in a National Cemetary?
Veterans and service members are eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery. Spouses
and minor children of eligible veterans and of service members may also be buried in a national
cemetery. Adult children incapable of self support due to physical or mental disability are
eligible for burial. There is no charge for the grave sites nor the opening and closing of the grave.
Headstones, including the inscription, are also provided without charge, by the VA. Call us for more
information.
Where are the closest National Cemeteries?
A new national cemetery has recently opened in the Dallas, Ft. Worth area. Of course, there are
National Cemeteries located in Texas and throughout the U.S.. We can provide you with a list.
Who can help make arrangements?
We at Beaty Funeral Home take special pride in conducting Military Funerals.
Since our home has had the honor of serving the community since the early 1900's, we are familiar
with this most important ceremony. For a quick resource of information concerning these matters, call us
or come by the funeral home.