When a veteran passes on, they leave behind a family of mourners just like anyone else. But they also bring with them a devoted community in the Armed Services, and Eutawville, SC funeral homes are dedicated to working with the military to carry out the honors to which our veterans have earned. At Avinger Funeral Home, our experienced staff has an effective plan of action to honor deceased veterans and support their families.

The First Step

When a veteran dies, especially if it’s a sudden death, communicating with the armed services may be the last thing on the family’s mind. That’s why when you work with an experienced funeral director and staff, we can take care of the paperwork and contact your loved one’s branch of the military on your behalf. That allows the government to get started on putting military honors together while you plan the service.

Who Is Entitled to Military Honors?

The general rule is that if your loved one served at least one term of enlistment or was drafted into the service, they’re eligible for basic military honors. This applies in both peacetime and wartime, and extends to anyone who served less than one full term but was discharged due to injury in the line of duty. Certain members of non-combat groups affiliated with the five branches of the military are also eligible.

What Do I Need to Know About Military Honors?

Any military member is entitled to standard military honors, which will be carried out by a military honor detail made of at least two members from the armed forces. One will be from the branch of the military that the veteran served in, and if the veteran has requested a specific member who was a friend or family member, this will be honored.

Standard military honors include a graveside salute, the firing of ceremonial guns over the grave, and a burial flag over the casket that will be presented to the family after the ceremony.

What Does the Government Provide?

Besides the complimentary burial flag, the government also offers complimentary headstones and markers that will be engraved with the veteran’s details of service along with all standard information. Coming in marble, granite, and bronze, these markers can be placed at any cemetery or memorial garden. Veterans are also entitled to burial in any military cemetery with openings if they choose.

Can I Combine a Veteran’s Service With a Standard Service?

Yes, most of our clients who are arranging a veteran’s funeral see the military honors as a single part of a larger service. The military honors take place at the gravesite, and can be before or after a larger memorial service. A loved one’s military service is one part of their unique life story, and we’re ready to help you arrange a service that incorporates military honors but celebrates the full life.

At Eutawville, SC funeral homes, we’re ready to help you arrange a fitting tribute to someone who served their country with distinction. Contact Avinger Funeral Home for more information or to set up a consultation today.