Veterans, active duty service members, and retired Reservists, and National Guard service members, are eligible for an inscribed headstone or marker for their grave at any cemetery – national, State Veterans, or private. VA will deliver a headstone or marker at no cost, anywhere in the world. For eligible veterans whose deaths occurred on or after November 1st, 1990, VA may provide a government headstone or marker even if the grave is already marked with a private one.

Spouses and dependent children are eligible for a government headstone or marker only if they are buried in a National or State Veterans cemetery.

Flat markers are available in bronze, granite, or marble. Upright headstones come in granite or marble. In national cemeteries, the style chosen will be consistent with existing monuments at the place of burial. Niche markers are available to mark columbaria used for the inurnment of cremated remains.

Note: There is no charge for the headstone or marker itself; however, arrangements for placing it in a private cemetery are the applicant’s responsibility and all setting fees are at private expense.

Important Notice – New Law Concerning Eligibility for Headstones and Markers.

John W. Scharer

July 24, 1931 - November 04, 2025

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