A brief guide to Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries and National Veterans Cemeteries
One of the most meaningful benefits available to Veterans and their families is burial in a Veterans cemetery. Both the federal government and the State of Minnesota operate cemeteries dedicated to honoring those who served.
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) maintains National Veterans Cemeteries across the country. Minnesota is also home to several Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries, operated by the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA). While separate systems, their purpose is the same: to provide a dignified and honorable resting place for Veterans and, in many cases, their eligible family members.
Eligibility for burial in a National Veterans Cemetery generally includes Veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. In most cases, this also allows burial for an eligible spouse and dependent children. Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries follow similar eligibility rules, though they may have slight differences based on state policy.
Veterans who served honorably in the active military, as well as many National Guard and Reserve members who were federally activated, typically qualify.
A common question is cost. For eligible Veterans, burials are provided at no cost in both National and Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries. This typically includes the gravesite, opening/closing of the grave, a government headstone, a burial flag, and perpetual care of the gravesite. Burial benefits for spouses or dependents may have associated fees, but the costs are often lower than those at private cemeteries.
Another important concept to understand is pre-need eligibility. Both VA and MDVA allow Veterans and spouses to apply in advance to determine eligibility for burial in their cemeteries. This process simply confirms eligibility ahead of time and places documentation on file.
However, it is important to note that preneed approval is not a reservation of a specific gravesite. The approval simply verifies that the Veteran or spouse meets eligibility requirements when the time comes.
Minnesota currently operates four State Veterans Cemeteries. In addition, Minnesota Veterans may also be eligible for burial in one of the National Veterans Cemeteries located in the region. Fort Snelling National Cemetery being the only one in Minnesota.
Planning ahead for end-of-life matters can be uncomfortable, but understanding these benefits ensures that Veterans and their families are aware of the options.
If you have questions about eligibility or the pre-need application process, your local County Veterans Services may assist.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall, Lake County Veterans Service Officers, 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson, Cook County Veterans ServiceOfficer, 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
