BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Veterans and their families should be aware of the “very robust” burial and memorial programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration, according to Mike Amsbaugh of the Crawford County Veteran Services Office.
Amsbaugh, speaking on the “Community Spotlight” program, highlighted three major benefits: a burial allowance for eligible veterans to help defray funeral costs, a headstone or marker program providing options from traditional upright stones to flat bronze markers and medallions for private cemeteries, and burial at a national cemetery.
Burial at a VA national cemetery, such as the Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio, incurs no cost to the family once the veteran’s remains reach the gate. This includes the gravesite, interment, and perpetual care. Amsfall noted that families can also complete a pre-need application through the local Veterans Service Office to determine eligibility in advance, simplifying the process for loved ones.
Navy veterans, in addition to standard VA benefits, have the unique option of burial at sea through the Department of the Navy. While this can involve the transportation of either cremains or casketed remains to ports like Norfolk, VA, or San Diego, CA, the Navy handles the committal and returns a flag and logbook coordinates to the family.
Veterans and family members in Crawford County can contact the local Veteran Services Office at 419-562-7761 for assistance with benefit discussions or pre-need applications.