{ "title": "headstones.io dataset: VA headstones, markers and medallions; the FTC Funeral Rule and headstones; questions for cemeteries", "frozen": "2026-10-12", "about": "Every fact on headstones.io is a verbatim quote from a U.S. government source (VA.gov, the VA National Cemetery Administration, VA forms, the eCFR, and Federal Trade Commission pages), or a structured item that points at those quotes. FTC pages are archived copies from the Internet Archive because ftc.gov does not answer automated requests. Cemetery questions are questions to ask, not statements about any cemetery.", "sources": { "vaHm": { "title": "Veterans headstones and markers", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov)", "url": "https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/headstones-markers/", "kind": "page", "updated": "December 15, 2025" }, "vaMed": { "title": "Medallions", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov)", "url": "https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/medallions/", "kind": "page", "updated": "June 1, 2026" }, "vaPrivate": { "title": "Burial in a private cemetery", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov)", "url": "https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/eligibility/burial-in-private-cemetery/", "kind": "page" }, "vaFaq": { "title": "Government headstones and markers FAQs", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov)", "url": "https://www.va.gov/resources/government-headstones-and-markers-faqs/", "kind": "page", "updated": "June 10, 2024" }, "form1330": { "title": "VA Form 40-1330, Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker (March 2025)", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs", "url": "https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA40-1330.pdf", "kind": "pdf" }, "form1330M": { "title": "VA Form 40-1330M, Claim for Government Medallion to Affix to a Private Marker (March 2025)", "publisher": "U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs", "url": "https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA40-1330M.pdf", "kind": "pdf" }, "ncaHmm": { "title": "Headstones, Markers, and Medallions", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/", "kind": "page" }, "ncaTypes": { "title": "Types of Headstones, Markers, and Medallions", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/types.asp", "kind": "page", "updated": "June 13, 2024" }, "ncaInscr": { "title": "Headstone and Marker Inscriptions", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/inscriptions.asp", "kind": "page" }, "ncaEmblems": { "title": "Emblems of Belief", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/emblems.asp", "kind": "page" }, "ncaDischarge": { "title": "Veterans Military Discharge Documents", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/discharge_documents.asp", "kind": "page" }, "ncaHistoric": { "title": "Historic Headstones and Markers (prior to World War I)", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/historic.asp", "kind": "page" }, "ncaCleaning": { "title": "Cleaning Government-Furnished Headstones and Markers", "publisher": "VA National Cemetery Administration", "url": "https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/cleaning.asp", "kind": "page" }, "cfr38630": { "title": "38 CFR 38.630, Burial headstones and markers; medallions", "publisher": "Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR)", "url": "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-38.630", "fetch": "https://www.ecfr.gov/api/versioner/v1/full/2026-08-27/title-38.xml?section=38.630", "kind": "reg" }, "cfr38631": { "title": "38 CFR 38.631, Memorial headstones and markers", "publisher": "Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR)", "url": "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-38.631", "fetch": "https://www.ecfr.gov/api/versioner/v1/full/2026-08-27/title-38.xml?section=38.631", "kind": "reg" }, "cfr38632": { "title": "38 CFR 38.632, Emblems of belief", "publisher": "Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR)", "url": "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-38.632", "fetch": "https://www.ecfr.gov/api/versioner/v1/full/2026-08-27/title-38.xml?section=38.632", "kind": "reg" }, "cfr38633": { "title": "38 CFR 38.633, Group memorial monuments", "publisher": "Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR)", "url": "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-38.633", "fetch": "https://www.ecfr.gov/api/versioner/v1/full/2026-08-27/title-38.xml?section=38.633", "kind": "reg" }, "cfr453": { "title": "16 CFR Part 453, Funeral Industry Practices (the Funeral Rule)", "publisher": "Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR)", "url": "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-16/part-453", "fetch": "https://www.ecfr.gov/api/versioner/v1/full/2026-08-27/title-16.xml?part=453", "kind": "reg" }, "ftcRule": { "title": "The FTC Funeral Rule (consumer article)", "publisher": "Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260913134057/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ftc-funeral-rule", "fetch": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260913134057id_/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ftc-funeral-rule", "original": "https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ftc-funeral-rule", "archived": "2026-09-13", "kind": "archived" }, "ftcCemetery": { "title": "Buying a Cemetery Site (consumer article)", "publisher": "Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260616113748/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/buying-cemetery-site", "fetch": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260616113748id_/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/buying-cemetery-site", "original": "https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/buying-cemetery-site", "archived": "2026-06-16", "kind": "archived" }, "ftcChecklist": { "title": "Funeral Costs and Pricing Checklist (consumer article)", "publisher": "Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260718202634/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/funeral-costs-pricing-checklist", "fetch": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260718202634id_/https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/funeral-costs-pricing-checklist", "original": "https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/funeral-costs-pricing-checklist", "archived": "2026-07-18", "kind": "archived" }, "ftcBiz": { "title": "Complying with the Funeral Rule (business guide)", "publisher": "Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260713211923/https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/complying-funeral-rule", "fetch": "https://web.archive.org/web/20260713211923id_/https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/complying-funeral-rule", "original": "https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/complying-funeral-rule", "archived": "2026-07-13", "kind": "archived" } }, "quotes": { "elDischarge": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "A Veteran who didn't receive a dishonorable discharge or a service member who died while on active duty may be eligible for a headstone or marker if they meet these requirements.", "loc": "" }, "elMarked1990": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "The Veteran or service member died on or after November 1, 1990, and their grave is currently marked with a privately purchased headstone, or", "loc": "" }, "elUnmarked": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "The Veteran or service member was buried in an unmarked grave, anywhere in the world", "loc": "" }, "elPreWW1": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Note: If the Veteran or service member served before World War I, we require detailed documents, like muster rolls, extracts from state files, or the military or state organization where they served.", "loc": "" }, "el24mo": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "And for Veterans who served as enlisted personnel after September 7, 1980, or as officers after October 16, 1981, at least one of these must also be true: The Veteran served for a minimum of 24 months of continuous active duty, or The Veteran died while serving on active duty", "loc": "" }, "elHmong": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Note: Hmong individuals who were living in the U.S. when they died are eligible if they were naturalized under the Hmong Veterans Naturalization Act of 2000 and died on or after March 23, 2018.", "loc": "" }, "elGuard": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "The National Guard member was entitled to retirement pay at their time of death (or would have been entitled if they were over 60 years old), or The National Guard member served in a federal status and for the period of time they were called to serve", "loc": "" }, "elReserve": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "The Reservist was entitled to retirement pay at their time of death (or would have been entitled if they were over 60 years old), or The Reservist was called to active duty for purposes other than training", "loc": "" }, "elTraining": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Note: National Guard members who have only limited active-duty service for training aren't eligible in most cases. They may be eligible in certain situations, such as if they died during or as the result of the training.", "loc": "" }, "elTrainingReserve": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Note: Reservists who have only limited active-duty service for training aren't eligible in most cases. They may be eligible in certain situations, such as if they died during or as the result of the training.", "loc": "" }, "elSpouseNat": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "A spouse or dependent child buried in a national cemetery, state or tribal Veterans cemetery, military post cemetery, or military base cemetery may be eligible for a headstone or marker. They may still be eligible even if they die before the Veteran.", "loc": "" }, "elSpousePrivate": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Spouses and dependent children buried in a private cemetery aren't eligible for a headstone or marker. But they may be eligible for an inscription on the Veteran's headstone or marker in a private cemetery.", "loc": "" }, "elOneGrave": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "In most cases, we provide one gravesite and a single headstone for all eligible family members. But if 2 Veterans are married and we receive a request for separate gravesites and headstones, we can provide side-by-side gravesites with separate headstones.", "loc": "" }, "elMemorialWhen": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "You may apply for a memorial headstone or marker if any of these descriptions is true: The deceased's remains haven't been recovered or identified, or The deceased's remains were buried at sea, or The deceased's remains were donated to science, or The deceased's remains were cremated and scattered", "loc": "" }, "ncaFree": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) furnishes upon request, at no charge to the applicant, a Government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any deceased eligible Veteran in any cemetery around the world, regardless of their date of death.", "loc": "" }, "ncaMarked": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "A Government-furnished headstone or marker may be provided for eligible Veterans who died on or after Nov. 1, 1990 and whose grave is marked with a privately purchased headstone. A Government-furnished medallion may be provided for eligible Veterans who served on or after Apr. 6, 1917 and whose grave is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "ncaOrdered": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "When burial or memorialization is in a national cemetery, state Veterans' cemetery, or military post/base cemetery, a headstone or marker will be ordered by the cemetery officials based on inscription information provided by the next of kin or authorized representative.", "loc": "" }, "ncaSetting": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "Note: There is no charge for the headstone or marker itself, however arrangements for placing it in a private cemetery are the applicant's responsibility and all setting fees are at private expense.", "loc": "" }, "ncaSettingNat": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "Cemetery staff in national, military post, and military base cemeteries are responsible for setting the headstone or marker at no cost to the applicant. Some state Veterans' cemeteries may charge the applicant a nominal fee for setting a Government-furnished headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "ncaStyleAllowed": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "The style chosen must be permitted by the officials in charge of the private cemetery where it will be placed.", "loc": "" }, "ncaStatus30": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "If more than 30 days have passed since your claim was submitted to the VA in Washington, D.C. by you, or someone assisting you, please call our Applicant Assistance Unit to verify we are in receipt of your claim.", "loc": "" }, "ncaStatus60": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "If more than 60 days have passed since submitting your claim and the grave is still not marked, you should contact the cemetery, funeral home, or other party responsible for accepting delivery of the headstone, marker or medallion to see if they have received it.", "loc": "" }, "ncaMemorialSpousePrivate": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "Memorial headstones and markers for spouses and other dependents are not available for placement in private cemeteries.", "loc": "" }, "ncaMemorialFirstLine": { "src": "ncaHmm", "text": "These headstones and markers bear an \"IN MEMORY OF\" inscription as their first line and must be placed in a recognized cemetery.", "loc": "" }, "cfrMarkedRule": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "An individual described in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section is eligible for a headstone or marker provided under this paragraph (a)(2) if: (A) The individual died on or after November 1, 1990; or (B) They were a Medal of Honor recipient and served in the Armed Forces on or after April 6, 1917.", "loc": "§ 38.630(a)(2)(ii)" }, "cfrMedallionInLieu": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "In lieu of a headstone or marker provided under this paragraph (a)(2), veterans described in paragraph (a)(2)(i)(A) of this section are eligible for a medallion to be affixed to their privately purchased headstone or marker if they served in the Armed Forces on or after April 6, 1917.", "loc": "§ 38.630(a)(2)(iii)" }, "cfrCivilWar": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "Soldiers of the Union and Confederate Armies of the Civil War, whose graves may be located in any type of non-national cemetery (e.g., state, tribal, private, or local government cemetery).", "loc": "§ 38.630(a)(1)(iii)" }, "cfrOrdering": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "When burial occurs in a cemetery that uses the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) electronic ordering system (e.g., national cemetery, State veterans' cemetery, or military post cemetery), the headstone or marker provided under paragraph (a)(1) or (2) of this section will be ordered by the applicable cemetery as part of the process of arranging burial.", "loc": "§ 38.630(b)(1)(i)" }, "cfrMemorialSpouse": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "An individual who dies on or after November 11, 1998, who is the spouse or surviving spouse of a veteran", "loc": "§ 38.631(a)(1)(ii)" }, "cfrMemorialCert": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "A representative of a private cemetery or local government cemetery that accepts delivery of a memorial headstone or marker must certify on VA Form 40-1330 that placement of the headstone or marker adheres to the policies or guidelines of the cemetery in which the grave is located.", "loc": "§ 38.631(b)(1)(ii)" }, "cfrMemorialPreceded": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "All inscriptions for memorial headstones and markers must be preceded by the phrase \"In Memory Of\".", "loc": "§ 38.631(b)(2)(ii)" }, "cfrReplace": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "Upon request, VA will replace a Government-furnished memorial headstone or marker, if the previously furnished headstone or marker: (A) Is damaged beyond repair; or (B) Has deteriorated to the extent it no longer serves to identify the decedent (e.g., identifying elements of an inscription are not legible, such as a decedent's name); or (C) Has been stolen or vandalized; or (D) Is the incorrect style or type for the veteran's era of service; or", "loc": "§ 38.631(b)(3)(i)" }, "cfrEmblemDef": { "src": "cfr38632", "text": "Emblems of belief do not include social, cultural, ethnic, civic, fraternal, trade, commercial, political, professional or military emblems.", "loc": "§ 38.632(b)(2)" }, "cfrEmblemNew": { "src": "cfr38632", "text": "A three-inch diameter digitized black and white representation of the requested emblem that is free of copyright or trademark restrictions or authorized by the owner for inscription on Government-furnished headstones and markers and can be reproduced in a production-line environment in stone or bronze without loss of graphic quality.", "loc": "§ 38.632(d)(2)" }, "cfrEmblem60": { "src": "cfr38632", "text": "If VA determines that an application for a new emblem of belief is incomplete, VA will notify the applicant in writing of any missing information and that he or she has 60 days to submit such information or no further action will be taken.", "loc": "§ 38.632(e)" }, "cfrGroup": { "src": "cfr38633", "text": "A group memorial monument furnished by VA may be placed only in a national cemetery in an area reserved for such purpose.", "loc": "§ 38.633(c)" }, "cfrGroupWho": { "src": "cfr38633", "text": "The group memorial monument will commemorate two or more identified members of the Armed Forces, including their reserve components, who died in a sanctioned common military event, (e.g., battle or other hostile action, bombing or other explosion, disappearance of aircraft, vessel or other vehicle) while in active military, naval or air service, and whose remains were not recovered or identified, were buried at sea, or are otherwise unavailable for interment.", "loc": "§ 38.633(b)" }, "cfrReplaceBurial": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "Upon request, VA will replace a Government-furnished burial headstone, marker, or medallion, if the previously furnished headstone, marker, or medallion: (A) Is damaged beyond repair; or", "loc": "§ 38.630(b)(3)(i)" }, "cfrReplaceHow": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "Requests to replace Government-furnished burial headstones, markers, or medallions are made as follows: (A) Through NCA's electronic ordering systems, when the headstone, marker, or medallion to be replaced is located in a cemetery that uses NCA electronic ordering systems; or (B) By completing and submitting VA Form 40-1330 or VA Form 40-1330M, when the headstone, marker, or medallion to be replaced is located in a cemetery that does not use NCA's electronic ordering systems.", "loc": "§ 38.630(b)(3)(iii)" }, "cfrMemorialSpousePlace": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "where the headstone or marker may be provided for a national cemetery, a veterans' cemetery owned by a State, or a veterans' cemetery of a Tribal Organization or on land owned by or held in trust for a Tribal Organization;", "loc": "§ 38.631(a)(1)(ii) and (iii)" }, "cfrMemorialChild": { "src": "cfr38631", "text": "An individual who dies on or after November 11, 1998, who is an eligible dependent child of a veteran", "loc": "§ 38.631(a)(1)(iii)" }, "cfrUnmarkedDef": { "src": "cfr38630", "text": "A privately purchased and durable headstone or marker, from which the buried individual's name (if known) is ascertainable: (A) Has not been erected or installed at or by the grave, or (B) Is damaged beyond repair;", "loc": "§ 38.630 definitions, unmarked grave" }, "faqMemorialFamily": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "Note: For spouses and other dependents, this benefit is for burial only in national, military post, military base, or state Veterans cemeteries, not private cemeteries.", "loc": "" }, "spChildBefore": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "In some cases, we may inscribe an eligible dependent child's name. You can apply for this type of inscription and we'll review your request.", "loc": "" }, "ddAccept": { "src": "ncaDischarge", "text": "NCA will accept the following documents, with some exceptions, to verify eligibility when requesting a headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "ddFn1": { "src": "ncaDischarge", "text": "* A DD Form 256 or DD Form 257 must indicate a period of active duty service dates to be a valid document for eligibility determination purposes.", "loc": "" }, "ddFn2": { "src": "ncaDischarge", "text": "** Valid only if active duty service dates are indicated.", "loc": "" }, "ddFn4": { "src": "ncaDischarge", "text": "**** NGB Form 22 can be used to verify eligibility if it indicates prior active federal service other than for training or a minimum of 20 years total service for pay.", "loc": "" }, "typUpright": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The upright granite and upright marble headstones are 42 inches long, 13 inches wide and 4 inches thick. Weight is approximately 230 pounds.", "loc": "" }, "typFlatStone": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The flat granite and flat marble grave markers are 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 4 inches thick. Weight is approximately 130 pounds.", "loc": "" }, "typBronze": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The flat bronze grave marker is 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, with 3/4 inch rise. Weight is approximately 18 pounds. Anchor bolts, nuts and washers for fastening to a base are furnished with the marker. The government does not furnish a base.", "loc": "" }, "typNiche": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The niche marker is 8 1/2 inches long, 5 1/2 inches wide, with 7/16 inch rise. Weight is approximately 3 pounds. Mounting bolts and washers are furnished with the marker.", "loc": "" }, "typVeining": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "Variations may occur in stone color; the marble may contain light to moderate veining.", "loc": "" }, "typHistoric": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "In addition to the headstone and markers pictured, two special styles of upright headstones are available for those who served with Union Forces during the Civil War or for those who served in the Spanish-American War. Another style headstone is available for those who served with the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.", "loc": "" }, "typHistoricLimit": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "Inscriptions on these headstone types are intentionally limited to assure historic accuracy. For example, only rank above 'Private' was historically authorized; emblems of belief and the words 'Civil War' are not authorized.", "loc": "" }, "formSmallFlat": { "src": "form1330", "text": "This grave marker is 18 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 3 inches thick. Weight is approximately 70 pounds. Variations may occur in stone color. Additional inscription is limited to 22 characters (including spaces) up to two lines maximum.", "loc": "Page 2, illustrations" }, "formUprightChars": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Additional inscription is limited to 15 characters (including spaces) up to four lines maximum.", "loc": "Page 2, upright headstone" }, "formFlatChars": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Additional inscription is limited to 27 characters (including spaces) up to two lines maximum.", "loc": "Page 2, flat and niche markers" }, "formBase": { "src": "form1330", "text": "The concrete base or slab is not furnished by the Government, and some cemeteries may require a base or slab as part of the installation. VA will not pay for or reimburse for this cost.", "loc": "Page 2, flat bronze marker" }, "formNicheUse": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Used for columbarium or mausoleum interment.", "loc": "Page 2, bronze niche marker" }, "formSpouse2019": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Spousal inscription information (i.e., name, date of birth, and date of death) is authorized on a Government-furnished headstone or marker if the Veteran's date of death is on or after October 1, 2019.", "loc": "Page 2" }, "formPOW": { "src": "form1330", "text": "VA will include a Prisoner of War (POW) or Former Prisoner of War (FPOW) inscription, upon request and with confirmation.", "loc": "Page 2" }, "faqTypes": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "You can request any of these: Upright headstones, in granite or marble Flat markers, in granite, marble, or bronze Niche markers, in bronze", "loc": "" }, "faqCheckCemetery": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "Note: For burial in a private cemetery, check with officials at the specific cemetery to make sure they allow the style you want.", "loc": "" }, "inMandatory": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "Legal Name, Branch of Service , Year of Birth, Year of Death, and for State Veterans and National Cemeteries only, the section and grave number.", "loc": "" }, "inOptionalFaq": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "You can also choose to inscribe: The full beginning and ending dates of the person's life The highest rank the Veteran attained The Veteran's awards and war service An emblem of belief", "loc": "" }, "inOtherFaq": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "We may approve other requests, such as: Nicknames Terms of endearment (like \"Loving Father\") Special unit identification", "loc": "" }, "inWarService": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "War service includes active duty service during a recognized period of war and the individual does not have to serve in the actual place of war, e.g., Korea may be inscribed if the Veteran served during the Korean War period, even though the individual never served in the country.", "loc": "" }, "inDocs": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "The applicant must submit supporting documentation to VA to have the highest rank and/or awards inscribed on the headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "inAdditional": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "Information for additional items must be in English or non-English text about the decedent (provided by an authorized applicant), consisting only of characters of the Latin alphabet and/or numbers.", "loc": "" }, "inNoGraphics": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "VA will not inscribe graphics, emblems or pictures. VA will inscribe authorized emblems of belief , the Medal of Honor , and the Southern Cross of Honor for Civil War Confederates.", "loc": "" }, "inMemoryOf": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "VA will inscribe the phrase \"IN MEMORY OF\" on all memorial headstones and markers, as required under 38 CFR 38.630(c).", "loc": "" }, "inLithichrome": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "In most instances, the headstone or marker provided WILL NOT have lithichrome.", "loc": "" }, "inLithichromeDef": { "src": "ncaInscr", "text": "Lithichrome, a darkened shading seen in the image below, is used for the inscription on headstones at private cemeteries.", "loc": "" }, "inNoNicknameName": { "src": "form1330", "text": "NAME OF DECEASED TO BE INSCRIBED ON HEADSTONE OR MARKER (No Nicknames or titles permitted)", "loc": "Block 3" }, "inOnlyNCA": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Note: Only the National Cemetery Administration can inscribe a headstone or marker. This is to protect the condition and consistency of these items. We don't allow private or local contractors to make inscriptions.", "loc": "" }, "spAfter2019": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "We'll inscribe an eligible spouse or dependent child's name, date of birth, and date of death on the Veteran's headstone or marker. We'll also inscribe a term of endearment (like \"Loving Father\") if you request this.", "loc": "" }, "spBefore2019": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "We'll inscribe an eligible spouse's name on the Veteran's headstone or marker. The spouse's name will appear after the words \"Husband of,\" \"Wife of,\" or \"Spouse of.\" We won't inscribe the spouse's date of birth or death.", "loc": "" }, "spReplacement": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Note: If a Veteran who died on or after October 1, 2019, already has a government headstone or marker, we'll pay for a replacement to add an inscription for an eligible spouse or dependent child. Use VA Form 40-1330 to request a replacement. The family will need to pay all fees to remove the original and install the replacement headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "spBlock18": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Add the inscription information in block 18 of the Claim for Standard Government Headstone or Marker (VA Form 40-1330). When you submit the form, please include documents that show the spouse or dependent relationship (like a marriage license or birth certificate).", "loc": "" }, "emNoGraphics": { "src": "ncaEmblems", "text": "No graphics (logos, symbols, etc.) are permitted on Government-furnished headstones or markers other than the available emblems of belief, the Civil War Union Shield, the Civil War Confederate Southern Cross of Honor, and the Medal of Honor insignias.", "loc": "" }, "apWho": { "src": "form1330", "text": "A decedent's family member, which includes the decedent's spouse or individual who was in a legal union as defined in 38 CFR 3.1702(b)(1)(ii) with the decedent; a child, parent, or sibling of the decedent, whether biological, adopted, or step relation; and any lineal or collateral descendant of the decedent;", "loc": "Page 1, Who can apply" }, "apDocs": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Please attach a copy of the deceased Veteran's discharge certificate (DD Form 214 or equivalent), the VA Pre-Need Eligibility Determination letter, or a copy of other official document(s) establishing qualifying military service. If you are unable to locate copies of military records, apply anyway, as VA will attempt to obtain records necessary to make an eligibility determination. Do not send original documents; they will not be returned.", "loc": "Page 1, How to submit a claim" }, "apFax": { "src": "form1330", "text": "FAX VA Form 40-1330 claims and supporting documents to 1-800-455-7143.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apSignatures": { "src": "form1330", "text": "The applicant signs in block 23; the person agreeing to accept delivery (consignee) in block 27, and the cemetery or other responsible official in block 31.", "loc": "Page 1, Signatures required" }, "apNoNA": { "src": "form1330", "text": "VA will not accept entries of \"None,\" \"Not Applicable,\" or \"NA\".", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apNoFee": { "src": "form1330", "text": "No fee should be paid in connection with the preparation of this claim.", "loc": "Page 1, Assistance needed" }, "apDelivery": { "src": "form1330", "text": "VA will ship the headstone or marker without charge to the consignee designated.", "loc": "Page 1, Transportation and delivery" }, "apNoPOBox": { "src": "form1330", "text": "VA will not deliver a headstone or marker to a Post Office box.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apUnload": { "src": "form1330", "text": "The consignee must utilize their equipment to unload the pallet or monument from the truck and inspect the headstone or marker for accuracy prior to installation.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apInstallCost": { "src": "form1330", "text": "The Government is not responsible for costs to install or remove the headstone or marker in private cemeteries.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apProperty": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Headstones and markers furnished remain the property of the United States Government and may not be used for any purpose other than to be placed at an eligible individual's grave or in a memorial section within a cemetery.", "loc": "Page 1, Caution" }, "apReplaceBlock33": { "src": "form1330", "text": "REPLACEMENT (Specify reason in Block 33, Remarks)", "loc": "Page 3, block 1", "match": "reason in Block 33, Remarks" }, "fmSSN": { "src": "form1330", "text": "SOCIAL SECURITY NO. AND/OR SERVICE NO.", "loc": "Block 7" }, "fmType": { "src": "form1330", "text": "TYPE OF HEADSTONE OR MARKER REQUESTED (Please ensure marker selection is permitted at selected cemetery)", "loc": "Block 15" }, "fmPersonalRep": { "src": "form1330", "text": "PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE (Person responsible for decisions concerning burial of decedent; include written authorization)", "loc": "Block 20" }, "fmPOBox": { "src": "form1330", "text": "P.O. BOX IS NOT ACCEPTABLE", "loc": "Block 25" }, "fmSpecial": { "src": "form1330", "text": "Service after September 7, 1980 for enlisted, and October 16, 1981 for officers, must be for a minimum of 24 months continuous active duty or be completed under special circumstances, e.g., death on active duty.", "loc": "Page 1, Who is eligible" }, "apReplaceBlock27Web": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "Note: If this is your second request, or if you're requesting a replacement because of a mistake with the inscription or a damaged headstone or marker, be sure to explain this in block 27 of the form.", "loc": "" }, "apStateSkip": { "src": "form1330", "text": "State Veterans' Cemeteries are not required to complete blocks 25 through 33.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "apPMC": { "src": "form1330", "text": "VA will provide the applicant with a PMC if the Veteran is eligible for a headstone, marker, or medallion.", "loc": "Page 1, Presidential Memorial Certificate" }, "apOnlineMailFax": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "You can apply for these benefits online, by mail, or by fax.", "loc": "" }, "apMailAddress": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "NCA FP Evidence Intake Center PO Box 5237 Janesville, WI 53547", "loc": "" }, "apHelpLine": { "src": "vaHm", "text": "If you need help, please call us at 800-697-6947 (TTY: 711). We're here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET.", "loc": "" }, "apPreNeedNote": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Note: In their time of need, when a family member files a claim for a headstone or marker, they should include this note in block 33: \"Decedent has a VA pre-need decision letter.\"", "loc": "" }, "apDD214Since1950": { "src": "ncaDischarge", "text": "The DD Form 214 has been issued by all military services since January 1, 1950. Before January 1, 1950, several similar forms were used by the military services.", "loc": "" }, "hiDocs": { "src": "ncaHistoric", "text": "VA requires detailed primary documentation for proof of military service prior to World War I. This documentation may include Compiled Military Service Records (CMSR), extracts from official State files, Federal pension documents or land warrants.", "loc": "" }, "hiNotAccepted": { "src": "ncaHistoric", "text": "Not accept contemporary burial records, a letter from the cemetery, or records from a non-primary source Internet site (e.g., findagrave.com).", "loc": "" }, "hiConfederatePension": { "src": "ncaHistoric", "text": "Pension records for Confederate Soldiers/Sailors will not be accepted as proof, of military service.", "loc": "" }, "hiUnknownGrave": { "src": "ncaHistoric", "text": "The fact that the location of the Veteran's grave is unknown is not a sufficient basis for a memorial headstone or marker.", "loc": "" }, "mdEligible": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "They must have a character of discharge under honorable conditions or higher, and They must be buried in a private cemetery, and They must have a permanent and privately purchased headstone or marker, and They must meet the eligibility requirements for their specific group", "loc": "" }, "mdSizes": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The bronze medallion is available in three sizes: Small (2\"W x 1-1/2\"H x 1/3\"D), Medium (3-3/4\"W x 2-7/8\"H x 1/4\"D), or Large (6-3/8\"W x 4-3/4\"H x 1/2\"D). Each medallion is inscribed with the word \"VETERAN\" across the top and the branch of service at the bottom.", "loc": "" }, "mdMOH": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "The Medal of Honor (MOH) Medallion comes in two sizes: Medium or Large . Each medallion is inscribed with \"MEDAL OF HONOR\" at the top and the branch of service at the bottom.", "loc": "" }, "mdEitherOr": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "In these instances, eligible Veterans are entitled to either a traditional Government-furnished headstone or marker, or the medallion, but not both.", "loc": "" }, "mdTwoVeterans": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "If the gravesite of two Veterans is marked with one privately purchased headstone, e.g., two spouses who have both served in the U.S. Military, two medallions can be requested and affixed to the privately purchased headstone if authorized by the local cemetery official.", "loc": "" }, "mdKit": { "src": "ncaTypes", "text": "Once an application for a medallion is received and approved, VA will mail the medallion along with a kit that will allow the family or the staff of a private cemetery to affix the device to a headstone, grave marker, mausoleum or columbarium niche cover.", "loc": "" }, "mdGuard": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "One of these must be true: The National Guard member was entitled to retirement pay at their time of death (or would have been entitled if they were over 60 years old), or Who was discharged or released for a disability adjudged service-connected or was later determined to have a compensable service connected disability, or The National Guard member served in a federal status, under Title 10 orders, or under Executive Orders (EO/EXO) by the President of the United States and completed their period of time they were called to serve, under Honorable conditions.", "loc": "" }, "mdReserve": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "One of these must be true: The Reserve member was entitled to retirement pay at their time of death (or would have been entitled if they were over 60 years old), or The Reserve member was called to active duty for purposes other than training, or The Reserve member was discharged or released for a disability adjudged service-connected or was later determined to have a compensable service connected disability.", "loc": "" }, "mdTraining": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "Note: Reserve members who have only limited active-duty service for training aren't eligible in most cases. They may be eligible in certain situations, such as if they died during or as the result of the training.", "loc": "" }, "mdHowApply": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "How do I apply for a medallion? You can apply online, by mail or by fax.", "loc": "" }, "mdOnline": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "Submit your application and supporting documents online using the QuickSubmit tool through AccessVA.", "loc": "" }, "mdMail": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "Send your application and copies of your supporting documents to this address: NCA FP Evidence Intake Center PO Box 5237 Janesville, WI 53547", "loc": "" }, "mdFax": { "src": "form1330M", "text": "If you prefer, you may FAX: VA Form 40-1330M claims and supporting documents to 1-800-455-7143.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "mdCemeterySize": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "The Veteran's cemetery must approve the size of medallion you apply for.", "loc": "" }, "mdCemeterySign": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "A representative from the Veteran's cemetery must review and sign your application.", "loc": "" }, "md30days": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "If a completed 1330M application and military documents are provided, you can expect a decision on your application in 30 days", "loc": "" }, "mdApplyAnyway": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "Note: If you don't have any of these supporting documents, apply anyway. We'll try to get them for you.", "loc": "" }, "mdMOHBlock": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Note: If you're requesting an MOH medallion, check \"Other\" in block 11 of the form and write \"MOH.\"", "loc": "" }, "mdFormMOHBlock13": { "src": "form1330M", "text": "The applicant must request a Medal of Honor Medallion in in block 13 and submit supporting documentation to VA.", "loc": "Page 1" }, "mdAffixCost": { "src": "form1330M", "text": "The Government is not responsible for costs associated with affixing the medallion to the privately purchased headstone or marker. Appropriate affixing adhesives, hardware and instructions will be provided with the medallion.", "loc": "Page 1, Delivery" }, "mdSignatures": { "src": "form1330M", "text": "The claimant signs in block 21; the cemetery or other responsible official signs in block 26.", "loc": "Page 1, Signatures required" }, "mdServed1917": { "src": "form1330M", "text": "Any deceased Veteran discharged under honorable conditions, who served in the Armed Forces on or after April 6, 1917, and is buried in a private cemetery in a grave marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker.", "loc": "Page 1, Who is eligible" }, "mdPHS": { "src": "vaMed", "text": "Additionally , If the Veteran served as a commissioned officer in active Public Health Service on or after April 6, 1917, they may be eligible for a medallion.", "loc": "" }, "faqPlaqueUrn": { "src": "vaFaq", "text": "When you choose to get a plaque or urn for a Veteran, they will no longer be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery. And we won't be able to provide a government headstone, marker, or medallion for the Veteran after you've received a plaque or urn.", "loc": "" }, "clGoal": { "src": "ncaCleaning", "text": "The goal of cleaning is to remove air pollution soiling, lichen, bird droppings, dirt, salts, and sap — it is NOT to make the headstone or marker look \"like new.\" Improper or unnecessary cleaning can accelerate the deterioration of marble and granite; pre-1970s bronze was not sealed and will have a blue-green patina that will not be removed by cleaning.", "loc": "" }, "clNoPower": { "src": "ncaCleaning", "text": "VA prohibits the general public from power washing Government-furnished headstones and markers due to the damage it may cause to historical headstones.", "loc": "" }, "clPermission": { "src": "ncaCleaning", "text": "Only clean headstones and markers when temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit and only after receiving permission from the property landowner.", "loc": "" }, "clWater": { "src": "ncaCleaning", "text": "Most headstones and markers can be cleaned with water alone.", "loc": "" }, "clFederal": { "src": "ncaCleaning", "text": "These Government-furnished headstones and markers remain Federal property", "loc": "" }, "cqFree": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "If the private cemetery is offering a free gravesite for Veterans, will I be required to buy a gravesite in addition to the free Veteran gravesite?", "loc": "" }, "cqWritten": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Can I get a written list of the services my family and I will get from the private cemetery during the burial process?", "loc": "" }, "cqTrust": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "What type of trust fund does the private cemetery have to protect buyers?", "loc": "" }, "cqRestrictions": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Are there any requirements or restrictions on headstones or grave markers in the private cemetery?", "loc": "" }, "cqBase": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Do I need to buy a special marker base before ordering a VA headstone?", "loc": "" }, "cqSetting": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Will I have to pay to place, set, or take care of a VA headstone or marker? If yes, will this cost more than if I buy a private headstone or marker?", "loc": "" }, "cqVault": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "Do I need to buy an outer container (sometimes called a \"vault\" or a \"grave liner\") to surround the casket? If yes, how much will this cost?", "loc": "" }, "cqFees": { "src": "vaPrivate", "text": "We provide a headstone, marker, or medallion to you and your family at no extra cost. But a private cemetery may charge setting, placement, maintenance, or other fees. We recommend that you ask about these additional costs when planning a burial in a private cemetery.", "loc": "" }, "ftcCemConsider": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "Additional considerations include what, if any, restrictions the cemetery places on burial vaults purchased elsewhere, the type of monuments or memorials it allows, and whether flowers or other remembrances may be placed on graves.", "loc": "" }, "ftcPerpetual": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "Perpetual care on a cemetery plot sometimes is included in the purchase price, but it's important to clarify that point before you buy the site or service. If it's not included, look for a separate endowment care fee for maintenance and groundskeeping.", "loc": "" }, "ftcLinerCost": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "Most, but not all, cemeteries require you to purchase a grave liner, which will cost several hundred dollars. Note that there are charges — usually hundreds of dollars — to open a grave for interment and additional charges to fill it in.", "loc": "" }, "ftcVetSpecials": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "You may see ads for so-called \"veterans' specials\" by commercial cemeteries. These cemeteries sometimes offer a free plot for the veteran, but charge exorbitant rates for an adjoining plot for the spouse, as well as high fees for opening and closing each grave.", "loc": "" }, "ftcNationalNoCharge": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "There are no charges for opening or closing the grave, for a vault or liner, or for setting the marker in a national cemetery.", "loc": "" }, "ftcCemNotCovered": { "src": "ftcCemetery", "text": "The FTC's Funeral Rule does not cover cemeteries and mausoleums unless they sell both funeral goods and funeral services.", "loc": "" }, "frNotMonument": { "src": "ftcRule", "text": "(The Rule does not apply to third-party sellers, such as casket and monument dealers, or to cemeteries that lack an on-site funeral home.)", "loc": "" }, "frChoose": { "src": "ftcRule", "text": "The Funeral Rule, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), makes it possible for you to choose only those goods and services you want or need and to pay only for those you select, whether you are making arrangements when a death occurs or in advance.", "loc": "" }, "frStatement": { "src": "ftcRule", "text": "Get an explanation in the written statement from the funeral home that describes any legal cemetery or crematory requirement that requires you to buy any funeral goods or services.", "loc": "" }, "frPhone": { "src": "ftcRule", "text": "Funeral directors must give you price information on the telephone if you ask for it. You don't have to give them your name, address, or telephone number first.", "loc": "" }, "frOBC": { "src": "ftcRule", "text": "Outer burial containers are not required by state law anywhere in the U.S., but many cemeteries require them to prevent the grave from caving in.", "loc": "" }, "frBizWho": { "src": "ftcBiz", "text": "Cemeteries, crematories, and other businesses can also be \"funeral providers\" if they market both funeral goods and services.", "loc": "" }, "frBizCemeteryRules": { "src": "ftcBiz", "text": "You may not tell consumers that a particular cemetery requires an outer burial container, if that is not true. You may want to keep updated rules of local cemeteries to make sure that your information is accurate.", "loc": "" }, "frChecklistMarker": { "src": "ftcChecklist", "text": "Marker/monument (including setup)", "loc": "" }, "cfrProvider": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "A \"funeral provider\" is any person, partnership or corporation that sells or offers to sell funeral goods and funeral services to the public.", "loc": "§ 453.1(i)" }, "cfrGoods": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "\"Funeral goods\" are the goods which are sold or offered for sale directly to the public for use in connection with funeral services.", "loc": "§ 453.1(h)" }, "cfrCashAdvance": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "A cash advance item is also any item obtained from a third party and paid for by the funeral provider on the purchaser's behalf.", "loc": "§ 453.1(b)" }, "cfrCemReq": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "In selling or offering to sell funeral goods or funeral services to the public, it is a deceptive act or practice for funeral providers to represent that federal, state, or local laws, or particular cemeteries or crematories, require the purchase of any funeral goods or funeral services when such is not the case.", "loc": "§ 453.3(d)(1)" }, "cfrCemWriting": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "funeral providers must identify and briefly describe in writing on the statement of funeral goods and services selected (required by § 453.2(b)(5)) any legal, cemetery, or crematory requirement which the funeral provider represents to persons as compelling the purchase of funeral goods or funeral services for the funeral which that person is arranging.", "loc": "§ 453.3(d)(2)" }, "cfrCashMarkup": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "\"We charge you for our services in obtaining: (specify cash advance items),\" if the funeral provider makes a charge upon, or receives and retains a rebate, commission or trade or volume discount upon a cash advance item.", "loc": "§ 453.3(f)(2)" }, "cfrNoTying": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "In selling or offering to sell funeral goods or funeral services, it is an unfair or deceptive act or practice for a funeral provider to: (i) Condition the furnishing of any funeral good or funeral service to a person arranging a funeral upon the purchase of any other funeral good or funeral service, except as required by law or as otherwise permitted by this part;", "loc": "§ 453.4(b)(1)(i)" }, "cfrChargesOnly": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "\"Charges are only for those items that you selected or that are required. If we are required by law or by a cemetery or crematory to use any items, we will explain the reasons in writing below.\"", "loc": "§ 453.4(b)(2)(i)(B)" }, "cfrOBCDisclosure": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "\"In most areas of the country, state or local law does not require that you buy a container to surround the casket in the grave. However, many cemeteries require that you have such a container so that the grave will not sink in. Either a grave liner or a burial vault will satisfy these requirements.\"", "loc": "§ 453.3(c)(2)" }, "cfrRetention": { "src": "cfr453", "text": "a copy of each statement of funeral goods and services selected, as required by § 453.2(b)(5), for at least one year from the date of the arrangements conference.", "loc": "§ 453.6" } }, "types": [ { "code": "U", "name": "Upright headstone", "material": "White marble", "size": "42 in long, 13 in wide, 4 in thick", "weight": "about 230 lb", "extra": "15 characters per line, up to 4 lines", "quotes": [ "typUpright", "formUprightChars", "typVeining" ] }, { "code": "V", "name": "Upright headstone", "material": "Light gray granite", "size": "42 in long, 13 in wide, 4 in thick", "weight": "about 230 lb", "extra": "15 characters per line, up to 4 lines", "quotes": [ "typUpright", "formUprightChars", "typVeining" ] }, { "code": "F", "name": "Flat marker", "material": "White marble", "size": "24 in long, 12 in wide, 4 in thick", "weight": "about 130 lb", "extra": "27 characters per line, up to 2 lines", "quotes": [ "typFlatStone", "formFlatChars" ] }, { "code": "G", "name": "Flat marker", "material": "Light gray granite", "size": "24 in long, 12 in wide, 4 in thick", "weight": "about 130 lb", "extra": "27 characters per line, up to 2 lines", "quotes": [ "typFlatStone", "formFlatChars" ] }, { "code": "L", "name": "Small flat marker", "material": "Granite", "size": "18 in long, 12 in wide, 3 in thick", "weight": "about 70 lb", "extra": "22 characters per line, up to 2 lines", "quotes": [ "formSmallFlat" ] }, { "code": "B", "name": "Flat marker", "material": "Bronze", "size": "24 in long, 12 in wide, 3/4 in rise", "weight": "about 18 lb", "extra": "27 characters per line, up to 2 lines; base or slab not furnished", "quotes": [ "typBronze", "formFlatChars", "formBase" ] }, { "code": "Z", "name": "Niche marker", "material": "Bronze", "size": "8 1/2 in long, 5 1/2 in wide, 7/16 in rise", "weight": "about 3 lb", "extra": "27 characters per line, up to 2 lines; for columbarium or mausoleum niches", "quotes": [ "typNiche", "formFlatChars", "formNicheUse" ] } ], "medallions": [ { "name": "Bronze medallion, small", "size": "2\" W x 1-1/2\" H x 1/3\" D", "reads": "\"VETERAN\" across the top, branch of service at the bottom", "quotes": [ "mdSizes" ] }, { "name": "Bronze medallion, medium", "size": "3-3/4\" W x 2-7/8\" H x 1/4\" D", "reads": "\"VETERAN\" across the top, branch of service at the bottom", "quotes": [ "mdSizes" ] }, { "name": "Bronze medallion, large", "size": "6-3/8\" W x 4-3/4\" H x 1/2\" D", "reads": "\"VETERAN\" across the top, branch of service at the bottom", "quotes": [ "mdSizes" ] }, { "name": "Medal of Honor medallion, medium or large", "size": "two sizes (the NCA page doesn't list dimensions)", "reads": "\"MEDAL OF HONOR\" at the top, branch of service at the bottom", "quotes": [ "mdMOH", "mdFormMOHBlock13" ] } ], "walkthrough": { "steps": [ { "id": "who", "ask": "Who is the headstone or marker for?", "why": [], "options": [ [ "A Veteran, or a service member who died on active duty", "priorBenefit" ], [ "The spouse or dependent child of a Veteran", "famRemains" ] ] }, { "id": "famRemains", "ask": "Will the spouse's or child's remains be buried, or placed in a niche?", "why": [ "elSpouseNat", "elMemorialWhen" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "spouseWhere" ], [ "No, the remains aren't available", "famMemorialWhere" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "spouseWhere", "ask": "Where will the spouse or child be buried?", "why": [ "elSpouseNat", "elSpousePrivate" ], "options": [ [ "A national cemetery, a state or tribal Veterans cemetery, or a military post or base cemetery", "=spouseNat" ], [ "A private, church or local government cemetery", "=spousePrivate" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "famMemorialWhere", "ask": "Where would the memorial headstone or marker go?", "why": [ "cfrMemorialSpousePlace", "faqMemorialFamily" ], "options": [ [ "A national cemetery, or a state or tribal Veterans cemetery", "=famMemorialNat" ], [ "A military post or base cemetery", "=famMemorialPost" ], [ "A private, church or local government cemetery", "=famMemorialPrivate" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "priorBenefit", "ask": "Has VA already provided a memorial plaque or urn for this Veteran?", "why": [ "faqPlaqueUrn" ], "options": [ [ "No", "discharge" ], [ "Yes", "=plaqueUrn" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "discharge", "ask": "What does the discharge show?", "why": [ "elDischarge", "mdEligible" ], "options": [ [ "Honorable, or under honorable conditions; or the person died on active duty", "service" ], [ "Dishonorable", "=dishonorable" ], [ "Something else (for example, other than honorable or bad conduct), or I'm not sure", "=dischargeUnclear" ] ] }, { "id": "service", "ask": "What kind of service was it?", "why": [], "options": [ [ "Active duty", "era" ], [ "National Guard", "guard" ], [ "Reserve", "reserve" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "era", "ask": "Did they start service as enlisted after September 7, 1980, or as an officer after October 16, 1981?", "why": [ "el24mo" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "length" ], [ "No, earlier than that", "remains" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "length", "ask": "Did they serve at least 24 months of continuous active duty, or die while on active duty?", "why": [ "el24mo", "fmSpecial" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "remains" ], [ "No", "=shortService" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "guard", "ask": "Does one of these describe the National Guard member?", "why": [ "elGuard", "elTraining" ], "options": [ [ "Entitled to retirement pay (or would have been, if over 60), or served in a federal status for the full period called", "remains" ], [ "Neither; only training duty", "=trainingOnly" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "reserve", "ask": "Does one of these describe the Reservist?", "why": [ "elReserve", "elTrainingReserve" ], "options": [ [ "Entitled to retirement pay (or would have been, if over 60), or called to active duty for purposes other than training", "remains" ], [ "Neither; only training duty", "=trainingOnly" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "remains", "ask": "Are the remains buried, or placed in a niche?", "why": [ "elMemorialWhen" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "cemetery" ], [ "No: not recovered or identified, buried at sea, donated to science, or cremated and scattered", "memorialWhere" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "memorialWhere", "ask": "Where will the memorial headstone or marker go?", "why": [ "ncaOrdered", "cfrMemorialCert" ], "options": [ [ "A national cemetery, a state or tribal Veterans cemetery, or a military post or base cemetery", "=memorialCemetery" ], [ "A private, church or local government cemetery", "=memorialPrivate" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "cemetery", "ask": "What kind of cemetery?", "why": [ "cfrOrdering" ], "options": [ [ "A national cemetery, a state or tribal Veterans cemetery, or a military post or base cemetery", "=cemeteryOrders" ], [ "A private, church or local government cemetery", "marked" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "marked", "ask": "What is on the grave now?", "why": [ "ncaFree", "ncaMarked", "cfrReplaceBurial" ], "options": [ [ "Nothing; it's unmarked", "=privateUnmarked" ], [ "A privately purchased headstone or marker", "privateCondition" ], [ "A government (VA) headstone, marker or medallion", "=replacement" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "privateCondition", "ask": "Is the private headstone or marker still in place, with the name readable?", "why": [ "cfrUnmarkedDef" ], "options": [ [ "Yes, it's in place and intact", "died1990" ], [ "No: it was never set at the grave, or it's damaged beyond repair", "=privateUnmarked" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "died1990", "ask": "Did the Veteran die on or after November 1, 1990?", "why": [ "cfrMarkedRule" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "=privateMarkedChoice" ], [ "No, before that", "moh" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "moh", "ask": "Was the Veteran a Medal of Honor recipient who served on or after April 6, 1917?", "why": [ "cfrMarkedRule" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "=mohBoth" ], [ "No", "served1917" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] }, { "id": "served1917", "ask": "Did the Veteran serve on or after April 6, 1917?", "why": [ "cfrMedallionInLieu" ], "options": [ [ "Yes", "=medallionOnly" ], [ "No", "=noSecondMarker" ], [ "Not sure", "=unresolved" ] ] } ], "results": { "unresolved": { "title": "VA decides; start by gathering the records", "say": "An answer you weren't sure of decides which benefit applies, so this tool can't give you an outcome. VA makes the determination from the service records. You can apply without every document: VA says it will try to get records you can't find.", "quotes": [ "apDocs", "mdApplyAnyway", "apHelpLine" ], "form": null, "ready": [ "discharge", "dates", "personalRep" ] }, "dischargeUnclear": { "title": "VA decides on this discharge", "say": "VA's headstone pages start from a Veteran who didn't receive a dishonorable discharge, and its medallion page asks for a discharge under honorable conditions or higher. For other discharges, or if you aren't sure, VA makes the decision from the records.", "quotes": [ "elDischarge", "mdEligible", "apDocs", "apHelpLine" ], "form": null, "ready": [ "discharge" ] }, "plaqueUrn": { "title": "A plaque or urn rules out a government headstone, marker or medallion", "say": "VA says that once a plaque or urn has been received, it can't also provide a headstone, marker or medallion for the Veteran.", "quotes": [ "faqPlaqueUrn" ], "form": null, "ready": [] }, "spouseNat": { "title": "The spouse or child may be eligible for a headstone or marker", "say": "VA provides headstones and markers for eligible spouses and dependent children buried in these cemeteries. If the cemetery orders through VA's electronic ordering system, as national, state Veterans and military post cemeteries do, the cemetery orders it from the inscription details you give it. A tribal Veterans cemetery isn't named in VA's ordering rules, so ask it how the order is placed.", "quotes": [ "elSpouseNat", "elOneGrave", "cfrOrdering", "ncaOrdered" ], "form": "cemetery", "ready": [ "inscription", "relationship" ] }, "spousePrivate": { "title": "No separate headstone, but possibly an inscription on the Veteran's", "say": "VA doesn't provide a headstone or marker for a spouse or child in a private cemetery. If they were eligible for burial in a national cemetery, VA can add an inscription to the Veteran's government headstone or marker. What can be inscribed depends on when the Veteran died, and differs for spouses and children.", "quotes": [ "elSpousePrivate", { "lead": "If the Veteran died on or after October 1, 2019 (spouse or dependent child):", "q": "spAfter2019" }, { "lead": "If the Veteran died on or after October 1, 2019 and already has a government headstone:", "q": "spReplacement" }, { "lead": "If the Veteran died before October 1, 2019 (spouse):", "q": "spBefore2019" }, { "lead": "If the Veteran died before October 1, 2019 (dependent child):", "q": "spChildBefore" }, "spBlock18" ], "form": "40-1330", "ready": [ "inscription", "relationship", "cemeteryRules" ] }, "famMemorialNat": { "title": "A memorial headstone may be possible; VA decides eligibility", "say": "For a spouse or dependent child whose remains aren't available, the regulation allows a memorial headstone or marker in national, state and tribal Veterans cemeteries, with date conditions (deaths on or after November 11, 1998, and further conditions for some spouses and children). Ask the cemetery and VA whether the conditions are met. National and state Veterans cemeteries order memorial headstones themselves; a tribal Veterans cemetery isn't named in VA's ordering rules, so ask it how the order is placed.", "quotes": [ "cfrMemorialSpouse", "cfrMemorialChild", "cfrMemorialSpousePlace", "ncaOrdered" ], "form": "cemetery", "ready": [ "relationship", "dates" ] }, "famMemorialPost": { "title": "Ask VA: the memorial rule for spouses and children doesn't name post or base cemeteries", "say": "The regulation on memorial headstones for spouses and dependent children names national cemeteries and State and Tribal Veterans cemeteries. It doesn't name military post or base cemeteries, and VA's note that does name them is about burial. Ask VA whether a memorial headstone or marker can be placed there.", "quotes": [ "cfrMemorialSpousePlace", "faqMemorialFamily", "apHelpLine" ], "form": null, "ready": [] }, "famMemorialPrivate": { "title": "Not available for spouses and children in private cemeteries", "say": "VA's memorial headstones and markers for spouses and dependents can't be placed in private cemeteries.", "quotes": [ "ncaMemorialSpousePrivate", "faqMemorialFamily" ], "form": null, "ready": [] }, "dishonorable": { "title": "VA's headstone benefit doesn't cover a dishonorable discharge", "say": "VA's eligibility starts with a Veteran who didn't receive a dishonorable discharge, or a service member who died on active duty.", "quotes": [ "elDischarge" ], "form": null, "ready": [] }, "shortService": { "title": "Service length may rule this out; ask VA", "say": "For service that began after the 1980 and 1981 dates, VA's form asks for 24 months of continuous active duty or service completed under special circumstances, such as death on active duty. If you aren't sure, VA says to apply anyway and it will look for the records.", "quotes": [ "fmSpecial", "apDocs" ], "form": "40-1330", "ready": [ "discharge" ] }, "trainingOnly": { "title": "Training-only Guard or Reserve service usually doesn't qualify", "say": "VA says National Guard members, and separately Reservists, with only limited active duty for training aren't eligible in most cases, with exceptions such as a death during or because of the training.", "quotes": [ "elTraining", "elTrainingReserve" ], "form": null, "ready": [ "discharge" ] }, "memorialCemetery": { "title": "A memorial headstone, ordered by the cemetery", "say": "When the Veteran's remains aren't available and the memorial will be in a national cemetery, a state Veterans cemetery or a military post or base cemetery, the cemetery officials order the memorial headstone or marker from the details the next of kin gives them. A tribal Veterans cemetery isn't named in VA's ordering rules, so ask it how the order is placed. Its first line reads IN MEMORY OF.", "quotes": [ "ncaOrdered", "ncaMemorialFirstLine", "cfrMemorialPreceded", "hiUnknownGrave" ], "form": "cemetery", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "inscription" ] }, "memorialPrivate": { "title": "A memorial headstone for a private cemetery, by application", "say": "For a memorial in a private or local government cemetery, you apply with VA Form 40-1330, and a representative of the cemetery certifies that the placement follows its rules. The first line reads IN MEMORY OF.", "quotes": [ "elMemorialWhen", "ncaMemorialFirstLine", "cfrMemorialCert", "hiUnknownGrave" ], "form": "40-1330", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "type", "consignee", "cemeterySignature", "settingFees" ] }, "cemeteryOrders": { "title": "The cemetery orders the headstone or marker", "say": "In a cemetery that uses VA's electronic ordering system (the regulation's examples are national cemeteries, state Veterans cemeteries and military post cemeteries), the cemetery staff order the headstone or marker as part of arranging the burial, using the inscription details the next of kin gives them. A tribal Veterans cemetery isn't named in those examples, so ask it how the order is placed. VA's cemeteries set it at no cost; some state Veterans cemeteries may charge a small setting fee.", "quotes": [ "cfrOrdering", "ncaOrdered", "ncaSettingNat" ], "form": "cemetery", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "inscription" ] }, "privateUnmarked": { "title": "A free government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave", "say": "VA furnishes a headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of an eligible Veteran in any cemetery, whatever the date of death. The regulation counts a grave as unmarked when a private headstone was never set there or is damaged beyond repair. You apply with VA Form 40-1330; the cemetery must sign, and setting it is at your expense.", "quotes": [ "ncaFree", "cfrUnmarkedDef", "ncaSetting", "ncaStyleAllowed", "apSignatures" ], "form": "40-1330", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "type", "inscription", "consignee", "cemeterySignature", "settingFees" ] }, "replacement": { "title": "A replacement, if the government marker qualifies", "say": "VA replaces a government headstone, marker or medallion in the cases the regulation lists, starting with one damaged beyond repair. In a private cemetery the request goes on VA Form 40-1330 (or 40-1330M for a medallion); in VA's ordering system the cemetery requests it.", "quotes": [ "cfrReplaceBurial", "cfrReplaceHow", "apReplaceBlock33", "apReplaceBlock27Web" ], "note": "replacementBlock", "form": "40-1330 or 40-1330M", "ready": [ "discharge", "consignee", "cemeterySignature" ] }, "privateMarkedChoice": { "title": "A government headstone or marker, or a medallion, even though the grave is marked", "say": "For a Veteran who died on or after November 1, 1990, VA can furnish a headstone or marker for a grave that already has a private one. If they served on or after April 6, 1917, a bronze medallion for the private headstone is the alternative. It's one or the other, not both.", "quotes": [ "cfrMarkedRule", "ncaMarked", "mdEitherOr" ], "form": "40-1330 or 40-1330M", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "type", "consignee", "cemeterySignature", "settingFees", "medallionSize" ] }, "mohBoth": { "title": "Medal of Honor: a government headstone or marker, or a Medal of Honor medallion", "say": "The regulation lets a Medal of Honor recipient who served on or after April 6, 1917 receive a government headstone or marker even though the grave already has a private one, whatever the date of death. A Medal of Honor medallion for the private headstone is the alternative; it's one or the other.", "quotes": [ "cfrMarkedRule", "mdMOH", "mdFormMOHBlock13", "mdEitherOr" ], "form": "40-1330 or 40-1330M", "ready": [ "discharge", "nameAsInscribed", "dates", "type", "consignee", "cemeterySignature", "settingFees", "medallionSize" ] }, "medallionOnly": { "title": "A medallion for the private headstone", "say": "For a Veteran who died before November 1, 1990 (and wasn't a Medal of Honor recipient), VA doesn't furnish a second headstone for a grave that's already marked. If they served on or after April 6, 1917, VA can send a bronze medallion to attach to the private headstone or marker.", "quotes": [ "cfrMarkedRule", "cfrMedallionInLieu", "mdKit" ], "form": "40-1330M", "ready": [ "discharge", "medallionSize", "cemeterySignature" ] }, "noSecondMarker": { "title": "No second marker under the regulation; ask VA about your case", "say": "Under 38 CFR 38.630(a)(2), a government headstone for a grave that's already marked requires death on or after November 1, 1990 (or the Medal of Honor exception), and the medallion requires service on or after April 6, 1917. Ask VA's Applicant Assistance Unit about your case.", "quotes": [ "cfrMarkedRule", "cfrMedallionInLieu", "apHelpLine" ], "form": null, "ready": [] } } }, "ready": { "discharge": { "item": "A copy of the discharge document (DD Form 214 or equivalent), a VA pre-need decision letter, or another official service record. Send copies, not originals.", "quotes": [ "apDocs", "apDD214Since1950" ] }, "nameAsInscribed": { "item": "The legal name exactly as it should be cut. The form's name block allows no nicknames or titles.", "quotes": [ "inNoNicknameName" ] }, "dates": { "item": "Dates of birth and death, and the Veteran's Social Security or service number.", "quotes": [ "fmSSN" ] }, "type": { "item": "Your choice of headstone or marker and material, after checking that the cemetery allows it.", "quotes": [ "fmType", "faqCheckCemetery" ] }, "inscription": { "item": "Optional inscription items: full dates, highest rank, awards, war service, an emblem of belief by number, and any additional words. Rank and awards need supporting documents.", "quotes": [ "inOptionalFaq", "inDocs", "inAdditional" ] }, "relationship": { "item": "For a spouse or child inscription: a document showing the relationship, such as a marriage license or birth certificate.", "quotes": [ "spBlock18" ] }, "personalRep": { "item": "If you're applying as a personal representative: written authorization.", "quotes": [ "fmPersonalRep" ] }, "consignee": { "item": "A business that will accept delivery, with its street address and phone number, and a signature from someone there. No post office boxes. They unload and inspect it.", "quotes": [ "apSignatures", "fmPOBox", "apUnload" ] }, "cemeterySignature": { "item": "A signature from the cemetery (or the person responsible for the property) certifying the type and placement follow its rules.", "quotes": [ "apSignatures", "cfrMemorialCert" ] }, "settingFees": { "item": "A plan, and a price from the cemetery, for setting the headstone. VA doesn't pay to install it in a private cemetery, and doesn't furnish a base.", "quotes": [ "ncaSetting", "apInstallCost", "formBase" ] }, "medallionSize": { "item": "For a medallion: VA Form 40-1330M, the size the cemetery approves, and the cemetery's signature.", "quotes": [ "mdCemeterySize", "mdCemeterySign", "mdSignatures" ] }, "cemeteryRules": { "item": "The cemetery's written rules on markers, so the request matches what it allows.", "quotes": [ "cqRestrictions" ] }, "preNeed": { "item": "If the Veteran had a VA pre-need decision letter, the note for block 33: \"Decedent has a VA pre-need decision letter.\"", "quotes": [ "apPreNeedNote" ] } }, "questions": [ { "group": "Markers and monuments", "items": [ { "q": "What kinds of headstones, markers and monuments do you allow in this section: upright, flat, bronze, granite, marble?", "basis": [ "cqRestrictions", "ftcCemConsider", "ncaStyleAllowed" ] }, { "q": "Are there size, height or color limits? May I see them in writing?", "basis": [ "cqRestrictions" ] }, { "q": "Will you accept a government (VA) headstone, marker or medallion here, and in which sizes?", "basis": [ "faqCheckCemetery", "mdCemeterySize" ] }, { "q": "Must the marker or monument come from you, or may I buy it elsewhere and have it set here?", "basis": [ "frNotMonument", "ftcCemConsider" ] }, { "q": "Who is allowed to set or install a marker here, and do you require your own crew?", "basis": [ "cqSetting" ] } ] }, { "group": "Bases, setting and fees", "items": [ { "q": "Do I need to buy a base, slab or foundation? From whom, and at what price?", "basis": [ "cqBase", "formBase" ] }, { "q": "What do you charge to set a headstone or marker, including a free government one?", "basis": [ "cqSetting", "cqFees", "ncaSetting" ] }, { "q": "What other fees apply: opening and closing, liners or vaults, recording, maintenance?", "basis": [ "cqFees", "ftcLinerCost", "cqVault" ] }, { "q": "Is perpetual or endowment care included, and what does it cover for the marker?", "basis": [ "ftcPerpetual", "cqTrust" ] }, { "q": "Can I have a written list of everything you'll provide and everything I must give you?", "basis": [ "cqWritten" ] } ] }, { "group": "For a VA headstone in a private cemetery", "items": [ { "q": "Will you sign VA Form 40-1330 (block 31) to certify the type and placement follow your rules?", "basis": [ "apSignatures", "cfrMemorialCert" ] }, { "q": "Will you accept delivery as the consignee (block 27), or should it go to a monument company or funeral home?", "basis": [ "apSignatures", "apUnload", "fmPOBox" ] }, { "q": "If you offer a free Veteran gravesite, must I buy an adjoining site, and at what price?", "basis": [ "cqFree", "ftcVetSpecials" ] } ] }, { "group": "Decorations and visits", "items": [ { "q": "What may be placed on or near the grave: flowers, flags, plantings, vases, photographs?", "basis": [ "ftcCemConsider" ] }, { "q": "May family clean the headstone, and with what? (VA's guidance for government headstones: water first, no power washing, permission from the landowner.)", "basis": [ "clWater", "clNoPower", "clPermission" ] } ] } ], "glossary": [ { "term": "Upright headstone", "def": "A standing stone. VA's are granite or marble, 42 inches long, 13 wide and 4 thick.", "quotes": [ "typUpright" ] }, { "term": "Flat marker", "def": "A marker set level with the ground. VA offers granite, marble and bronze.", "quotes": [ "typFlatStone", "typBronze" ] }, { "term": "Niche marker", "def": "A small bronze plate for a columbarium or mausoleum niche.", "quotes": [ "typNiche", "formNicheUse" ] }, { "term": "Medallion", "def": "A bronze emblem VA sends to attach to a privately purchased headstone or marker.", "quotes": [ "mdSizes", "mdKit" ] }, { "term": "Memorial headstone or marker", "def": "A headstone for someone whose remains aren't available; its first line reads IN MEMORY OF.", "quotes": [ "ncaMemorialFirstLine", "elMemorialWhen" ] }, { "term": "Granite", "def": "One of VA's stone choices for upright headstones and flat markers; the form calls it light gray granite. Stone color can vary.", "quotes": [ "faqTypes", "typVeining" ] }, { "term": "Marble", "def": "VA's other stone choice; the form calls it white marble, and it may show light to moderate veining.", "quotes": [ "faqTypes", "typVeining" ] }, { "term": "Bronze", "def": "Used for VA's flat markers, niche markers and medallions. VA notes that bronze made before the 1970s wasn't sealed and carries a blue-green patina that cleaning won't remove.", "quotes": [ "typBronze", "clGoal" ] }, { "term": "Lithichrome", "def": "Dark shading in the letters. VA uses it on headstones for private cemeteries, though in most instances its headstones won't have it.", "quotes": [ "inLithichromeDef", "inLithichrome" ] }, { "term": "Emblem of belief", "def": "A religious or equivalent belief emblem VA will inscribe from its approved list. Social, fraternal, political or military emblems don't qualify.", "quotes": [ "cfrEmblemDef", "emNoGraphics" ] }, { "term": "Consignee", "def": "The business that accepts delivery of a VA headstone or marker, unloads it and checks it.", "quotes": [ "apSignatures", "apUnload" ] }, { "term": "Setting", "def": "Installing the headstone or marker at the grave. Free in VA national cemeteries; at private expense in private cemeteries.", "quotes": [ "ncaSettingNat", "ncaSetting" ] }, { "term": "Base or slab", "def": "A concrete foundation some cemeteries require under a flat bronze marker. VA doesn't furnish or pay for it.", "quotes": [ "formBase" ] }, { "term": "Outer burial container (vault, grave liner)", "def": "A container around the casket in the grave. The Funeral Rule says state law doesn't require one; many cemeteries do.", "quotes": [ "frOBC", "cfrOBCDisclosure" ] }, { "term": "Funeral provider", "def": "Under the Funeral Rule, anyone selling both funeral goods and funeral services to the public.", "quotes": [ "cfrProvider", "frBizWho" ] }, { "term": "Cash advance item", "def": "Something a funeral home buys from someone else for you, such as cemetery services.", "quotes": [ "cfrCashAdvance", "cfrCashMarkup" ] }, { "term": "Perpetual (endowment) care", "def": "A fee for ongoing maintenance of the cemetery. The FTC says to check whether it's included.", "quotes": [ "ftcPerpetual" ] }, { "term": "Group memorial monument", "def": "A VA monument in a reserved area of a national cemetery for two or more identified members of the Armed Forces who died in the same sanctioned military event and whose remains weren't recovered or identified, were buried at sea, or are otherwise unavailable for interment.", "quotes": [ "cfrGroupWho", "cfrGroup" ] } ], "emblems": [ [ 1, "Latin (Christian) Cross" ], [ 2, "Buddhist" ], [ 3, "Judaism (Star of David)" ], [ 4, "Presbyterian Cross" ], [ 5, "Russian Orthodox Cross" ], [ 6, "Lutheran Cross" ], [ 7, "Episcopal Cross" ], [ 8, "Unitarian (Flaming Chalice)" ], [ 9, "United Methodist" ], [ 10, "Aaronic Order Church" ], [ 11, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Angel Moroni)" ], [ 12, "Native American Church of North America" ], [ 13, "Serbian Orthodox Cross" ], [ 14, "Greek Cross" ], [ 15, "Bahai (9-Pointed Star)" ], [ 16, "Atheist" ], [ 17, "Muslim (Crescent and Star)" ], [ 18, "Hindu" ], [ 19, "Konko-Kyo Faith" ], [ 20, "Community of Christ" ], [ 21, "Sufism Reoriented" ], [ 22, "Tenrikyo Church" ], [ 23, "Seicho-No-Ie" ], [ 24, "The Church of World Messianity" ], [ 25, "United Church of Religious Science" ], [ 26, "Christian Reformed Church" ], [ 27, "United Moravian Church" ], [ 28, "Eckankar" ], [ 29, "Christian Church" ], [ 30, "Christian & Missionary Alliance" ], [ 31, "United Church of Christ" ], [ 32, "Humanist Emblem of Spirit" ], [ 33, "Presbyterian Church (USA)" ], [ 34, "Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii" ], [ 35, "Soka Gakkai International (USA)" ], [ 36, "Sikh (Khanda)" ], [ 37, "Wicca (Pentacle)" ], [ 38, "Lutheran Church Missouri Synod" ], [ 39, "New Apostolic" ], [ 40, "Seventh Day Adventist Church" ], [ 41, "Celtic Cross" ], [ 42, "Armenian Cross" ], [ 43, "Farohar" ], [ 44, "Messianic Jewish" ], [ 45, "Kohen Hands" ], [ 46, "Catholic Celtic Cross" ], [ 47, "First Church of Christ, Scientist (Cross & Crown)" ], [ 48, "Medicine Wheel" ], [ 49, "Infinity" ], [ 51, "Luther Rose" ], [ 52, "Landing Eagle" ], [ 53, "Four Directions" ], [ 54, "Church of the Nazarene" ], [ 55, "Hammer of Thor" ], [ 56, "Unification Church" ], [ 57, "Sandhill Crane" ], [ 58, "Church of God" ], [ 59, "Pomegranate" ], [ 60, "Messianic" ], [ 61, "Shinto" ], [ 62, "Sacred Heart" ], [ 63, "African Ancestral Traditionalist" ], [ 64, "Maltese Cross" ], [ 65, "Druid (Awen)" ], [ 66, "Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod" ], [ 67, "Polish National Catholic Church" ], [ 68, "Guardian Angel" ], [ 69, "Heart" ], [ 70, "Shepherd and Flag" ], [ 71, "African Methodist Episcopal" ], [ 72, "Evangelical Lutheran Church" ], [ 73, "Universalist Cross" ], [ 74, "Faith and Prayer" ], [ 75, "Ichthys" ], [ 76, "Nichiren Shoshu Temple" ], [ 77, "Dove of Peace" ], [ 78, "Kingian Faith" ], [ 79, "Church of God in Christ" ], [ 80, "American Baptist Churches - USA" ], [ 81, "Tryzub Cross" ], [ 82, "Rose" ], [ 83, "Charismatic Messianic Evangelistic" ], [ 84, "Ankh" ], [ 98, "Druze" ] ], "dischargeDocuments": [ [ "DA 1569", "Transcript of Military Record" ], [ "DD 2A", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2AF", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2CG", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2MC", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2N", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2NOAA", "Armed Forces Identification Card (Active)" ], [ "DD 2 (Retired)", "US Uniformed Services Identification Card" ], [ "DD 13", "Statement of Service" ], [ "DD 214 ***", "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty" ], [ "DD 217", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 256A *", "Honorable Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 256AF *", "Honorable Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 256CG *", "Honorable Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 256MC *", "Honorable Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 256N *", "Honorable Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 257A *", "General Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 257AF *", "General Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 257CG *", "General Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 257MC *", "General Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 257N *", "General Discharge Certificate" ], [ "DD 303", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge" ], [ "DD 303AF", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge" ], [ "DD 303CG", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge" ], [ "DD 303MC", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge" ], [ "DD 303N", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge" ], [ "DD 1300", "Report of Casualty" ], [ "ADJ 545", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Army DS ODF", "Honorable Discharge from the United States Army" ], [ "AGO 525", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "AGO 755", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "AGO 01252", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "AGO 01254", "Transcript of Military Record" ], [ "AGO 01502", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "WD AGO 53", "Enlisted Record and Report of Separation Honorable Discharge" ], [ "WD AGO 53-55", "Enlisted Record and Report of Separation Honorable Discharge" ], [ "WD AGO 53-58", "Enlisted Record and Report of Separation General Discharge" ], [ "WD AGO 53-90", "Certificate of Service" ], [ "WD AGO 53-98", "Military Record and Report of Separation Certificate of Service" ], [ "WD AGO 55", "Honorable Discharge from The Army of the United States" ], [ "WD AGO 280", "Certificate of Service, AVS" ], [ "WD AGO 525", "Honorable Discharge from the United States Army" ], [ "WD AGO 755", "Honorable Discharge, Women's Army Auxiliary Corps" ], [ "WD AGO 0729", "Honorable Discharge from Army of the United States of America" ], [ "WD AGO 01502", "Certificate in Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge Certificate" ], [ "WD AGO 01504", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Bureau of Investigation No. 6", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Bureau of Investigation No. 53", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Bureau of Investigation No. 118", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Bureau of Investigation No. 213 **", "Discharge from U. S. Naval Reserve Force" ], [ "Form No. 6, U.S.N.", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "Navy (No number)", "War Service Certificate" ], [ "NAVCG-553", "Notice of Separation from U.S. Coast Guard" ], [ "NAVCG-2510", "Honorable Discharge, U.S. Coast Guard" ], [ "NAVMC-455", "U.S. Marine Corps Certificate of Service, In Lieu of Lost or Destroyed Discharge Certificate" ], [ "NAVMC 70-PD", "Honorable Discharge, U.S. Marine Corps" ], [ "NAVMC 78-PD", "U.S. Marine Corps Report of Separation" ], [ "NMC 258 A&I", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "NMC 2571 A&I", "Honorable Discharge, U.S. Marine Corps" ], [ "NAVPERS-553", "Notice of Separation from U.S. Naval Service" ], [ "NAVPERS-563", "Navy Discharge-Notice of Separation from U.S. Naval Service" ], [ "NAVPERS-566", "Standard Statement of Service" ], [ "NAVPERS-660", "Honorable Discharge from U.S. Navy" ], [ "NAVPERS-661", "Certificate of Discharge, U.S. Naval Service" ], [ "NAVPERS-663B", "Discharge Certificate" ], [ "NGB 22 ****", "Report of Separation and Record of Service, Departments of the Army and the Air Force, National Guard Bureau" ], [ "NOAA Form 56-16", "Report of Transfer or Discharge" ], [ "PHS Form 1867", "Statement of Service – Verification of Status of Commissioned Officers of the U.S. Public Health Service" ], [ "VA Adjudication 545", "Summary of Record of Active Service" ], [ "VA 3101", "Official Retirement Order, Official Retirement Register, Reserve Retirement Eligibility Benefits Letter, Verification of Service Letter from the VA" ] ], "notes": { "verification": "VA pages, VA forms and eCFR sections are fetched live and every quote is re-checked against them. FTC text is checked against the dated Internet Archive capture named for each source, not against the live ftc.gov page, which did not answer automated requests. The FTC consumer articles show July 2012 as their date.", "replacementBlock": "VA.gov's headstones page says to explain a replacement request in block 27; the March 2025 VA Form 40-1330 itself says to give the replacement reason in block 33 (Remarks), and block 27 is the consignee's signature. We show both and suggest following the form." } }