One of the more surprising statistics shared during a recent training conference came from the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration (NCA). According to the presenter, only about 22% of eligible Veterans utilize burial benefits available through national and state Veterans cemeteries.
That number suggests many Veterans and families may not be aware of the benefits available to them or may not begin planning until a difficult time when decisions must be made quickly.
The National Cemetery Administration maintains more than 150 national cemeteries across the country and provides eligible Veterans with a dignified final resting place. For those who qualify, burial benefits may include a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Most of these benefits are provided at no cost to the family.
Minnesota complements the national cemetery system through the Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries located in Duluth, Little Falls, Preston, and Redwood Falls. These cemeteries provide many of the same benefits and serve as an important option for Minnesota Veterans and their families. For many Veterans in Lake and Cook Counties, the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Duluth may be the closest Veterans cemetery available.
Eligibility for burial benefits is generally based on military service and discharge conditions. While many Veterans qualify, not all circumstances are identical. This is one reason why planning ahead is so important.
Families are often surprised to learn that cemetery eligibility can be verified before it is ever needed. Veterans and their loved ones can gather military records, discuss burial preferences, and confirm eligibility long before a funeral home is involved. Taking these steps in advance can reduce stress and uncertainty during an already difficult time.
Planning ahead also helps ensure important documents, such as the DD-214 or other discharge records, are available when needed. Locating military records after a death can delay arrangements and create additional challenges for surviving family members.
As Veterans Service Officers, we frequently help families navigate burial and memorial benefits after a Veteran passes away. While we are always willing to assist, the process is often smoother when Veterans and their families have discussed their wishes and organized their records beforehand.
No one enjoys planning for the end of life. However, a small amount of preparation today can spare loved ones significant stress tomorrow and help ensure a Veteran receives the recognition and honors they have earned through military service.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall, Lake County Veterans Service Officers, 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson, Cook County Veterans Service Officer, 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
