Veteran Services

Veteran Services

At Beecher and Bennett Funeral Service we deeply honor the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our country. We recognize that our freedoms are made possible by their patriotism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protect others.

Complimentary services provided for an honorably discharged veteran.


Assistance with all necessary applications including; Presidential Memorial Certificate, Manufacturing & Placement of Veterans Stone, Obtaining a Flag for Funeral/Cremation Services, Burial Benefits, etc.


Arranging for disposition with Military Honors at any Veterans Cemetery.


This includes playing of “TAPS”, gun salute, and presentation of American Flag.

Most Commonly Used State & National Cemeteries:


  • CT State Veterans Cemetery-317 Bow Ln. Middletown, CT 06457
  • Calverton National Cemetery-210 Princeton Blvd. Wading River, NY 11933


A woman is holding an american flag and a rose at a funeral.

What are VA Burial Benefits and Memorial Items?

The VA burial benefits are designed to assist service members, veterans, and their families plan and pay for a burial or memorial service in a VA national cemetery. Memorial items are provided through the Veterans Affairs to honor the service of those who have served the country.

Who Qualifies for Burial Benefits and Burial in a National Cemetery?

Veterans, service members, spouses, and dependents may be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, as well as other benefits, if they meet one of the requirements listed below:


  • A veteran who didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge
  • A service member who died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty for training
  • The spouse or minor child of a veteran, even if the veteran died first
  • In some cases, the unmarried adult dependent child of a veteran

What are Military Funeral Honors and a Committal Service?

Military funeral honors include the playing of “Taps,” a rifle detail, a color guard and uniformed service members who properly fold and present the United States flag to the grieving family. These flags are typically given to the deceased’s next of kin or close friend. In order for the survivors to qualify to receive the burial flag, the veteran or reservist must be described by at least one of the following:


  • Served in wartime
  • Died while serving on active duty after May 27, 1941
  • Served after January 31, 1955
  • Served in peacetime and left military service before June 27, 1950, after serving at least one enlistment or because of a disability that was caused - or made worse - by their active military service
  • Served in the Selected Reserves, or served in the military forces of the Philippines while in service of the United States and died on or after April 25, 1951.

What are Burial Benefits and How Do I Apply?

The veterans death benefits help cover the burial, funeral and transportation costs associated with the deceased’s services and disposition. For those being buried in a national cemetery, survivors can receive assistance with the burial and funeral costs, the plot or internment, and the transporting of the veteran’s remains for burial.


You must file a claim for a non-service-connected burial allowance within two years after the veteran’s burial or cremation. There is no time limit to file for a service-connected burial, plot or interment allowance.


You can apply online at https://www.va.gov/burials-and-memorials/application/530/introduction or by mail after completing the VA Form 21P-530.


Eligible Veterans and service members may qualify for memorial items provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, including headstones, markers, burial flags, and certificates. Learn more about available items and eligibility at https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/memorial-items/


The Department of Veterans Affairs also provides a headstone for unmarked graves of an eligible deceased veteran at no charge. To request a headstone, grave marker, or niche marker, fill out the VA Form 10-1330 and send to:


Department of Veterans Affairs
5109 Russell Road
Quantico, VA 22134-3909 


For more information regarding VA burial benefits and memorial items, visit https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/ or contact the VA office at 1-800-827-1000.


***All applications and Military Honors requests require a copy of The Honorable Discharge (DD-214 Form). Please bring this form to the initial arrangement conference or send by email to info@beecherandbennett.com. If you are not in possession of this form, our staff will assist with obtaining this, and any other necessary forms.*** 

Veterans Administration Benefits 


Veterans Benefits Administration 800-827-1000


For comprehensive information on Veterans Administration benefits, visit va.gov. 


You will find information regarding:


  • Who is eligible to receive benefits 
  • How to apply
  • Required application materials
  • Burial in national and VA cemeteries 
  • Headstones, medallions, and markers
  • Much more