Being a part of the military in any branch is an experience that shapes a person’s life. Not coincidentally, it’s also something that is often recognized in death. For many service members, acknowledging their time in the military is important.
The VA can help with end-of-life planning, but what is included on a headstone or columbarium niche plaque is up to the family. If your loved one was in the military here are some things you may want to consider adding to commemorate their service.
Branch of Service
The United States military is made up of different branches that work together to protect the security of the nation. The military branches include the:
- Air Force
- Army
- Coast Guard
- Marine Corp
- Navy
There’s also the Space Force that was established in 2019 as well as the Army National Guard and Air National Guard.
Years of Service
A detail that is often included are the years that the individual served. You could include the number of service years or the dates of the service. You could do both, but if you only go with one the specific dates are usually the more popular option.
Wars Fought/Tours/Missions
Combat defines military experience for many veterans. Often people join the military during times of conflict because they are inspired to protect and defend the country.
If a loved one served during a time of war, went on high-level combat missions or was part of a significant tour of duty that can be a detail worth adding. For example, WWII veterans who were part of D-Day will often have this detail noted on headstones and VA columbarium niche plaques.
Rank
Your rank in the military is a reflection of your job role, but also your time in the service. It’s earned through work and dedication that anyone should be proud of. In addition to a title, like Sergeant or Chief Petty Officer, there’s also insignia that represent a person’s military ranking.
Medals
Earning a medal is a significant achievement that any military service member would be proud to have memorialized. Some of the most recognizable honors include:
Purple Heart – A Purple Heart is awarded to military service members who are injured or killed during combat.
Bronze Star – When a servicemember takes a heroic action during ground combat they are awarded a Bronze Star.
Silver Star – The Silver Star is given to servicemembers that exhibit a high level of valor, courage and heroism during combat.
Gold Star – A Gold Star is a posthumous award given to the parents or widow of a servicemember that died in the line of duty. Although the honor is given to the surviving family, it is typically represented on markers and plaques.
Medal of Honor – The most prestigious recognition is a Medal of Honor, which is awarded by the President of the United States. It is only given to military members who show extreme valor, risking their own life to save others while engaged with the enemy.
At Direct Cremate we help the families of veterans arrange respectful, affordable cremation services. Call or text to discuss service arrangements as well as benefits that help pay for funeral services.
