Headstones are an important part of memorializing your loved one—they provide a physical space for you to visit and feel connected. To honor fallen service members, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers free headstones and grave markers upon request. Use this guide to understand eligibility requirements and grave marker options.

Eligibility

Veterans who were honorably or generally discharged and service members who died on active duty are eligible for this honor. All service members must have passed on or after Nov. 1, 1990. Those who served after Oct. 1981 must also have served for at least 24 continuous months or died on active duty.

Marker Options

Medallions

The VA provides bronze medallions that can be affixed to any privately purchased headstone in place of a government-provided grave marker. This is beneficial if your loved one has a family plot with matching markers or made specific requests for their headstone.

Medallions are available in three sizes:

• Small: two inches wide and 1 ½ inches tall
• Medium: 3 ¾ inches wide and 2 7/8 inches tall
• Large: 6 3/8 inches wide and 4 ¾ inches tall

Upright Headstones

Upright headstones are large tablets that sit perpendicular to the ground. Available in either granite or marble, they measure 42 inches long by 13 inches wide. They weigh approximately 230 pounds and are four inches thick. Both materials are long-lasting and weather resistant.

Flat Markers

Flat markers are flush with the ground and smaller than upright options. Veterans have a choice between bronze, granite, and marble markers, which are all 24 inches long and 12 inches wide. Flat bronze markers only weight 18 pounds and are anchored to a base with nuts and bolts—the VA doesn’t provide the base. Granite and marble markers weigh approximately 130 pounds and don’t require a base or fasteners.

If you want to honor your fallen soldier, contact the team at Hawaii Art Stone in Honolulu. Serving the entire island of Oahu, these compassionate professionals use state-of-the-art laser technology for engraving, and they can craft a variety of materials, including glass, copper, and brass. They’ll work closely with you and your family to achieve your vision for your loved one. Learn more about their products online, or call (808) 744-3162 to discuss your options.