Who is eligible for military funeral honors and how to request them

Funeral honors include the playing of "Taps," the presentation of a U.S. flag, and a detail of uniformed military personnel. Learn more about what happens during military funeral honors.

These honors are provided for free for veterans and active-duty members.

See if you or your loved one is eligible for military funeral honors.

How to request military funeral honors

The funeral director who handles the veteran's service will request the honors.

You will need to provide the veteran's discharge papers to verify eligibility. If you need a copy, submit an emergency request for military records to the National Archives.

Military funeral memorials

Veterans and reservists are eligible for other memorial items. Learn how to apply for memorials, including:

• Headstones, markers, medallions, plaques, and urns
• Burial flag
• Presidential memorial certificate

These memorials are available for veterans buried in private cemeteries. Spouses or dependent children buried at national or veterans cemeteries may also be eligible for headstones or markers.