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Soldiers • May 2009 31 servicemember’s information goes on one side, and the information of the spouse or dependent(s) interred in the same grave is written on the reverse side); a burial flag; and a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Even if the veteran is buried in a private cemetery, a standard headstone or marker can be obtained for free by completing VA Form 40-1330 and mailing it to the VA (see www.military. com/forms). For a description of what can be inscribed onto headstones and markers, see www.cem.va.gov/cem/ hm_hm.asp. Advantages of national/state veteran cemetery burial One advantage has to do with expense. When interred in a military cemetery, the gravesite, the grave mark- er and their perpetual care and mainte- nance, are provided all at no cost to the family. Given that the casket, flowers, transportation and funeral service can range from $5,000 to $11,000 (these funeral expenses are not covered by the VA), the cost for a funeral and burial can be quite high. Another advantage has to do with security. In military cemeteries, it is often much tighter. It is not unusual for them to be equipped with electronic surveillance, as well as guards that open and close the gates. In addition, it is a federal offence to deface a military cemetery headstone, or to carry out any other kind of destructive activity or vandalism on the property, and a federal investigation is automatically initiated if it happens. Conviction for such a crime carries a one-year manda- tory sentence. A third advantage is that of exclusivity. One cannot simply buy his or her way in. Burial in a military cemetery is a benefit that is earned. Additionally, the aesthetics of the cemetery are well maintained. National cemeteries receive very high marks regarding upkeep, according to annual surveys distributed to family members of the deceased. Statistics show that national cemeteries consistently obtain an “A” rating, which is unheard of in the non-military sector. Furthermore, if the cemetery is expanded, the aesthetics are not com- promised, due in part to the federal government, which pays for those ad- ditions and ensures that guidelines are followed and maintained. Also, “keep- ing up with the Joneses”—competition by families to have the largest head- stone, for example, does not occur. It is “dress-right-dress,” because the overall effect of the appearance and placement of the headstones is as meaningful as the individual gravesite. A military cemetery is a national shrine that memorializes veterans perpetually. Long after the veteran and his or her loved ones have passed on, the U.S. government ensures that the cemetery is maintained, and that the veteran is never forgotten. Another advantage is that it is a reminder to citizens of our nation of the sacrifices that have been made for their freedoms. As such, it becomes a focal point by which Americans can show their patriotism and appreciation, particularly during Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day celebrations. Now that you have read this information, what will you do with it? Your choice may be to do nothing, intentionally or unintentionally, since procrastination is still choosing to do nothing. At a minimum, let a trusted loved one know your wishes. Surveys carried out by the National Cemetery Administration consistently show that the most common reason a family inters their veteran loved one in a mili- tary cemetery is “to honor his or her wishes.” Visit http://www.cem.va.gov/ cem/cems_nmc.asp for information and view photos of particular military cemeteries that may interest you. You may also want to personally visit some national or state veteran cemeteries in your area, and even meet with the cemetery director. He or she can familiarize you and your family with all aspects of the interment. Many state veteran cemeteries will file and maintain your documentation, such as your DD 214, that proves your burial eligibility. America’s national and state veteran cemeteries are a military benefit that provide not only a final resting place for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, but a lasting memorial and testament to their service. Don’t keep this information to yourself. Share it with those who are serving, as well as with those who have served and their families. They, too, will be forever grateful. v Sergeant Maj. Cecil Edwards is training to be a research manager in Human Terrain Systems at the Foreign Military Studies Office, Fort Leavenworth, Kan.