Serving Veteran Families
Cremation or Burial
National Cemetery – San Diego
Veteran Funerals – Veteran Cremation – Veteran Burial
San Diego, a renowned military city, particularly for the Navy, houses a significant naval base known as San Diego Bay. With a substantial presence of 95,000 uniformed personnel and 175,000 including dependents, and this does not include retired veterans.
Planning any funeral is not easy, as the myriad of details is often overwhelming, especially during this devastating time of grief. Planning veteran funerals is even more complex with coordinating military honors and the National Cemetery system. As San Diego veteran funeral experts, let us help during this difficult time.
Besides the well-deserved benefits military personnel and their families receive during their lifetime, additional benefits are available when a veteran passes.
Veteran Funeral Spending Rule – Do Not Overspend
It is easy to get carried away with emotions and make extravagant decisions putting additional stress on family members at this sensitive time. The funeral is really for the living. We recommend that it is always best to have what you consider a reasonable yet dignified ceremony for the deceased.
We have several resources available to you, including helpful articles and our knowledgeable experienced staff to assist navigating this process.
Veteran Funeral Cost
The Veterans Administration will compensate the families of honorable veterans generally under two main categories.
- Service Releated
- Non Service Related
For specifies of your individual case, you must contact the VA directly.
Service Related Veteran Deaths
In this case, the Veterans Administration will normally cover up to $2,000 toward funeral expenses. This guideline applies to service related deaths that occurred on or post-Septemberservice-related, 11, 2001. VA will pay up to $1,500 for deaths prior to September 10, 2001 and if the Veteran is buried in a VA national cemetery, some of all of the cost of transporting the deceased may be reimbursed.
Deaths occurring after October 1, 2011, will qualify for increased compensation due to the Veterans Benefits Act of 2001. The VA will pay up to $700 toward burial and funeral expenses and provide a $700 plot-interment allowance.
For additional information see our article on Veteran Funeral Allowances.
Service Related Veteran Deaths
The Veterans Administration will pay up to $300 directly toward burial and funeral expenses for these deaths. You must be prepared to complete the paperwork required to receive compensation.
Who Qualifies for Veteran Funeral Burial Benefits
The qualification rules can be complex, so even if you do not qualify for burial benefits, you should still apply – you may get approved. In general, however, the following classifications are who will get assistance.
Military members who died while on active duty or in the Selected Reserve may qualify
Former military members who served on active duty or in the Selected Reserve were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions may qualify.
Former military members who completed at least one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and were discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions may qualify.
Veteran Benefits When Selecting a National Cemetery
There are several benefits for veterans selecting to be interred in a national cemetery. Key advantages these are aside from military honors, which veterans are eligible for regardless of the interment location:
Comradeship: Being buried in a national cemetery allows veterans to be among fellow service members. It creates a sense of camaraderie and connection as they rest alongside others who have shared similar experiences and sacrifices. This comradeship can provide comfort to both the veterans and their families.
Perpetual Care: National cemeteries provide perpetual care for the gravesites meaning that the cemetery staff maintains the grounds, including landscaping, cleaning, and regular upkeep. This maintenance ensures that the final resting place of veterans is preserved and respected for generations to come.
Accessible Locations: National cemeteries are strategically located across the United States, making them more accessible for veterans and their families. This allows loved ones to visit and pay their respects without traveling long distances.
Opening / ClosingThis involve preparing the burial site. After locating and marking the plot, the grave is dug to the appropriate dimensions. Once the burial service is completed, the grave is carefully backfilled with soil, ensuring proper compaction. The optional use of a burial vault or liner provides added protection. The grave is then smoothed and leveled for a neat appearance. This respectful process creates a fitting resting place for the deceased.
It’s important to note that specific benefits and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the national cemetery and the veteran’s service record. Veterans and their families can consult with the VA or visit the National Cemetery Administration’s website for detailed information regarding burial benefits and eligibility requirements.
