National Cemetery Scheduling Office: A Guide For Honoring Our Fallen Heroes

National Cemetery Scheduling Office: A Guide For Honoring Our Fallen Heroes

As someone who has lost a loved one who served our country, I understand the importance of giving them a proper burial. That’s why I want to share my personal experience with the National Cemetery Scheduling Office and help others navigate this process.

What is the National Cemetery Scheduling Office?

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office is responsible for scheduling burials and other services at national cemeteries across the United States. These cemeteries are reserved for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents.

How do I schedule a burial?

To schedule a burial, you can contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office by phone or online. They will ask for information about the deceased veteran, including their full name, date of birth, and service details. They will also ask for information about the next of kin and any special requests for the service.

What documents do I need to provide?

You will need to provide a copy of the veteran’s discharge papers (DD214) and the death certificate. If the veteran did not receive an honorable discharge, you may need to provide additional documentation.

What services are available?

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office provides a range of services for veterans and their families, including burial with military honors, a grave marker or headstone, and perpetual care of the gravesite. They also offer services for cremated remains, such as interment in a columbarium or scattering in a designated area.

Are there any fees?

There is no cost for the burial or placement of cremated remains in a national cemetery. However, there may be fees for additional services, such as a grave liner or a custom headstone.

Events and Competitions

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office hosts several events throughout the year to honor our fallen heroes. These include Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, wreath-laying ceremonies, and flag retirement ceremonies.

They also hold competitions for students to design new headstones for veterans buried in national cemeteries. This program, called the “Memorials for Heroes” competition, encourages students to learn about the sacrifices made by our veterans and to create meaningful memorials for them.

Schedule Guide

If you are planning a burial at a national cemetery, here is a general guide to the scheduling process:

1. Contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office as soon as possible after the death of the veteran.
2. Provide the necessary information and documents.
3. Choose a date and time for the service.
4. Coordinate with the funeral home or other service providers.
5. Arrive at the cemetery on the day of the service and follow the instructions of the staff.

Schedule Table

Here is a sample schedule table for a burial service at a national cemetery:

Question and Answer

Here are some common questions and answers about the National Cemetery Scheduling Office:

Can anyone be buried in a national cemetery?

No, national cemeteries are reserved for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents. The veteran must have received an honorable discharge from the military.

How long does it take to schedule a burial?

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office strives to schedule burials within two to three days of the initial request.

Can I choose the gravesite?

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office will make every effort to accommodate your preferences, but the availability of gravesites may vary depending on the location and demand.

What should I do if I have a special request for the service?

You should inform the National Cemetery Scheduling Office of any special requests as soon as possible. They will do their best to accommodate your needs, but some requests may not be possible.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the National Cemetery Scheduling Office:

Is there a limit to the number of family members who can attend the service?

No, there is no limit to the number of family members who can attend the service, but you should inform the National Cemetery Scheduling Office of the expected attendance.

Can I bring my own flowers or decorations?

Yes, you can bring your own flowers or decorations, but they must be placed in accordance with the cemetery’s rules and regulations.

What happens if the veteran is missing in action or has no known gravesite?

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office will work with the family to provide a memorial marker or headstone to honor the veteran’s service.

Overall, the National Cemetery Scheduling Office is dedicated to honoring our fallen heroes and providing comfort to their families during a difficult time. If you are in need of their services, I encourage you to reach out and let them guide you through the process.