Veteran's Headstones/Flags

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers, upon request and at no cost, a government-provided headstone or marker for the unmarked grave of any eligible deceased veteran, regardless of their date of death, in any cemetery worldwide. For veterans who passed away on or after November 1, 1990, the VA can also provide a headstone or marker for graves that already have a private one. In such cases, applicants can choose between a traditional headstone or marker, or a new type of device available since spring 2009.



Available options include flat markers made of granite, marble, or bronze, and upright headstones in granite or marble. The chosen style must align with the existing monuments in the burial location. Niche markers are also available for marking columbaria used for the inurnment of cremated remains.


If the burial or memorialization takes place in a national cemetery, state veterans' cemetery, or military post/base cemetery, cemetery officials will order the headstone or marker based on the inscription details provided by the next of kin or an authorized representative.



Spouses and dependents are only eligible for a government-provided headstone or marker if they are buried in a national cemetery, state veterans' cemetery, or military post/base cemetery.

Please note: While the headstone or marker is provided at no cost, the applicant is responsible for making arrangements and covering any installation fees if it is to be placed in a private cemetery.

A United States flag is provided free of charge to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces. This flag is a tribute to the veteran's service to their country. The VA offers a burial flag for memorial purposes for:

  • A veteran who served during wartime
  • A veteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941
  • A veteran who served after January 31, 1955
  • A peacetime veteran who was discharged or released before June 27, 1950
  • Certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while in service of the U.S. Armed Forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951
  • Certain former members of the Selected Reserves


Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag?

Typically, the flag is presented to the next of kin as a keepsake after its use in the funeral service. If there is no next of kin, the VA will provide the flag to a friend who requests it. For VA national cemeteries that have an Avenue of Flags, families of veterans buried there can donate their loved one’s burial flags to be flown on patriotic holidays.

How Can You Apply?

You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director will help you obtain the flag.

Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced?

The law permits us to provide one flag for a veteran's funeral. Unfortunately, the VA cannot replace the flag if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. However, we can offer assistance in purchasing a replacement burial flag.

How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?

The correct way to display the flag varies depending on whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 provides detailed instructions on the proper display and folding of the flag. The burial flag is not intended for outdoor display due to its size and fabric; it is made of cotton and can be easily damaged by weather conditions.

For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000