Honoring Our Veterans
Families of veterans are seeking meaningful and unique ways to create a lasting memorial tribute to their loved one. The rendering of military funeral honors is a way to show our deep gratitude to those who have faithfully defended our nation. We are committed to honoring our fallen heroes by facilitating well-deserved military honors services for departed veterans and to recognizing the sacrifices and contributions they have made on our behalf.
Veteran's Benefits
U. S. veterans who have served at least one term of enlistment and have separated under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for veteran's benefits. These benefits include all of the following:
- Military Funeral Honors Ceremony
- United States flag
- Government burial marker
- Presidential Memorial Certificate
- $150 state of Indiana Veteran's Death Benefit (if death occurs in IN)
Note: A veteran's DD Form 214 or Honorable Discharge document must be provided in order to qualify for these entitlements. In the event that one cannot be provided, we can assist in filing for a lost discharge so that benefits can still be obtained.
The Military Funeral Honors Ceremony
The basic Military Honors Ceremony consists of the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the veteran's family and the playing of Taps. The ceremony is performed by a funeral honors detail, consisting of at least two members of the Armed Forces. This basic ceremony will be provided to every eligible veteran when requested. In addition, local Veterans Service Organizations, including the American Legion, VFW, Department of Defense Honor Guard, Marine Corps League, and The Patriot Guard may complement the military funeral honors detail. For example, these organizations can assist with a 21 gun salute, a chaplain's comforting words at the graveside, or an elaborate funeral procession escort. Each facet of the Military Funeral Honors Ceremony combines to make this unique experience a cherished memory for the family and a wonderful tribute to the fallen hero.
Tattered Flag Disposal
Burns Funeral Home started a program over twenty years ago collecting worn and tattered U.S. flags. These flags are placed over the top of and cremated with Veterans, who have chosen cremation as a means of final disposition. United States flags are to be destroyed at the end of their useful life "honorably" by fire. By including the flag in the cremation of a Veteran, it is an honor to the flag as well as the Veteran. The flag actually becomes part of the cremated remains. This has been enthusiastically accepted by our local Veteran's organizations. Used flags may be brought to either our Crown Point or Hobart location.