Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is proud to serve America’s veterans, and we salute their selfless heroism.
The life of every member of the U.S. Armed Forces deserves to be recognized and celebrated. Whether active duty or a veteran, a proper military burial affords loved ones and fellow service members the opportunity for a respectful farewell. As Veteran’s Day approaches, it serves as a reminder of the many sacrifices of America’s military personnel and the ways they define our country. The funeral benefits available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are numerous, but they can be confusing.
This article contains helpful information about funeral benefits for America’s veterans and the supportive services we provide.
1. Documentation to verify military service
A “Report of Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States”, also known as “discharge papers” or the “DD214”, must first be submitted to verify military service and determine eligibility for veterans’ burial benefits. We can assist you in securing this documentation.
2. Military Funeral Honors (MFH)
The option to receive a military funeral honors ceremony is required by law. Upon the family’s request, every eligible veteran is entitled to receive military funeral honors at no cost. The type of Funeral Honors rendered is determined by the status of the veteran. This ceremony, which includes the folding and presentation of the United States flag, the playing of “Taps”, a rifle volley, and an honors detail with at least two military personnel, must be scheduled in advance. Evan W. Smith Funeral Services works with various veterans’ organizations to assist in the provision of military funeral honors.
3. Headstones or markers for a burial space in private cemeteries
Upon request, the VA will furnish a government headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any deceased eligible Veteran in any cemetery around the world. Deceased Veterans discharged from the U.S. armed forces under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for this benefit and it is provided at no charge to the applicant. Upright headstones, flat grave markers, and niche plaques for cremated remains can be provided. We can assist your family in securing, completing, and submitting the required documentation.
4. Presidential Memorial Certificate
This military honors program was initiated in 1962 by then-President John F. Kennedy. The Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is a gold-embossed paper certificate that bears the signature of the current U.S. President and honors the memory of honorably discharged, deceased veterans. Eligible recipients include the next of kin and loved ones of honorably discharged veterans. Your Evan W. Smith funeral director can assist your family in obtaining this certificate.
5. Exclusive discounts
Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is always seeking to expand the innovative ways we honor military heroes. For veterans, active duty personnel, and their family members located in and around Dover and Wilmington, DE, we are proud to be a source of comfort and compassion amid trying times. Our exclusive ‘Veteran Salute Program’ provides a 10% discount on services for members of the U.S. military, including active duty personnel, veterans, retirees, reserves, and members of the National Guard.
Funeral preplanning
More and more servicemen and women are recognizing the value of funeral preplanning. It’s becoming a popular trend across all populations because it offers an opportunity to design the funeral of one’s wishes and alleviates second-guessing by family members. Particularly within the military community, there’s always a degree of uncertainty. Preplanning affords great peace of mind.
Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is committed to ensuring that your loved one receives the distinguished military honors they so richly deserve. If you have questions or require assistance with arrangements, please contact our caring professionals.
About Evan W. Smith Funeral Services: Since 2009, residents of Wilmington, Dover, and the surrounding Delaware community have relied on the caring staff at Evan W. Smith Funeral Services to help them through their darkest hours. Family-owned and operated, the company offers an array of elite funeral care services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorials, pre-planning, grief counseling, and more. With decades of experience in caring for families from all cultural backgrounds and diverse walks of life, Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is committed to creating memorable, uplifting experiences that always exceed expectations. For more information, please visit www.ewsmithfs.com.
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