Planning a funeral to lay a loved one to rest can be a challenging time, and it may be difficult for you to craft a memorable obituary, especially if the deceased is a veteran. If you need assistance understanding what occurs during a veteran funeral ceremony and what to include in the obituary, consider the helpful information below.

What a Military Obituary Should Include

Like any obituary, a veteran’s obit will mention brief details about their life, including the names of their immediate kin, hobbies, education, and work history. Writings for veterans will include information about their military careers, such as the branch they worked in, the decorations and medals they received, and their highest rank. You may need to do a bit of research to gather this information by speaking to family and loved ones.

It'll also help to conduct short interviews with other veterans who worked alongside the deceased for more insight into how the military shaped them into whom they became. For instance, if serving the country in the Army was a significant part of your loved one’s life, it’s acceptable to say so and provide a short example in the obituary.

What to Do If Information Isn’t Available

Sometimes, military service doesn’t play a substantial role in a veteran’s life, so their closest loved ones may not know much about their career. It’s still possible to gather basic information, such as military branch and rank, by submitting a formal request to the National Personnel Records Center. The office catalogs military records that date back as early as World War I.

What to Expect During a Military Funeral

For a veteran to receive full funeral honors, their family must notify the military with at least two days’ notice. The service is a way for the military and the country to pay tribute to deceased veterans.

In addition to family and friends, at least two uniformed military service people will attend the funeral service. An American flag will adorn the closet casket during transport to the cemetery. During the burial, Taps will play, and the two-person detail will fold the flag in a tricorn shape and present it to the deceased’s next of kin.

When you want help writing an obituary and coordinating their funeral, turn to Porto Funeral Homes in New Haven County, CT. These professionals have helped grieving families honor their loved ones for over 75 years, offering personalized assistance with funeral, memorial, and cremation services. Visit the website for more information about how they can help. You can also call (203) 467-3000 to reach their East Haven team or dial (203) 934-5000 to contact the directors in West Haven.