New VA Program Offers Commemorative Plaques and Urns for Veterans' Families

Larry Moore • June 24, 2024

Commemorative Urn and Plaque

Starting June 10, 2024, families of deceased and cremated Veterans have the opportunity to apply for commemorative plaques or urns from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This option is available to those who prefer not to inter their loved ones in a VA National Cemetery or use a government-furnished headstone, marker, or medallion in any cemetery.

Commemorative Urns and Plaques:

Commemorative Urns: These urns are designed to hold the remains of a deceased, cremated Veteran, serving as a dignified tribute to their service.

Commemorative Plaques: These plaques are intended for wall display, honoring the Veteran’s service and providing a lasting memorial.

Families can choose either a plaque or an urn, but not both.

Important Considerations:

If a family opts for a commemorative plaque or urn, the VA is legally prohibited from interring the Veteran’s remains in a VA National Cemetery.

Additionally, the family will not be eligible for a government-furnished headstone, marker, or medallion for placement in any cemetery.

This decision is final and irreversible; the law does not allow for the restoration of these benefits once a plaque or urn is chosen.

Families should carefully consider their options before making a decision to ensure they choose the best way to honor their Veteran's memory. For assistance, click the links below or please call us at (706) 657-4382 and we will be glad to help.

To be eligible, the Veteran (or service member who died on active duty) must have served in the Armed Forces on or after April 6, 1917; the Veteran must be eligible for a headstone or marker under 38 U.S.C. § 2306(d), and the Veteran’s remains must have been cremated—with no portion of the remains interred at any location.

More information can be found on the VA website Veterans Headstones, Markers, Medallions, Plaques, And Urns | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)

Information about VA burial and memorial benefits is available at VA Burial Benefits And Memorial Items | Veterans Affairs or by calling toll-free at 1-800-827-1000.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Commemorative Urns and Plaques FAQs-Commemorative-Urn-Plaque.pdf (va.gov)

Link to the VA Form 1330UP – Claim for Commemorative Plaque or Urn for Veterans’ Cremains Not Interred About VA Form VA40-1330UP | Veterans Affairs

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This morning, during my run before work, I started mentally listing the tasks ahead—vacuum the parlors, clean the bathrooms, print memorial folders, and more. But as I ran, my thoughts drifted beyond my daily checklist. I found myself reflecting on how much funeral services have evolved over the years. This year marks 80 years of Moore Funeral Home serving our community, and yesterday was a perfect example of how things have changed. In one service, the speaker—unable to travel from Texas—delivered his message via Zoom. At the same time, we conducted a large funeral at a church in Higdon which was live-streamed, allowing hundreds of people to participate from the comfort of their homes. I can’t help but wonder what my great-grandfather would think. When he founded Moore Funeral Home in 1945 , he likely never imagined technology playing such a role in how we honor and remember our loved ones. Yet, while funeral services continue to evolve, one thing has remained constant—our commitment to serving families with compassion, dignity, and respect. As we celebrate 80 years, I’m incredibly grateful for the past and excited for the future. Thank you for trusting us to walk alongside you during life’s most difficult moments. It is our honor to continue this tradition of care for generations to come.