Burial Services for Veterans

The men and women who served in our armed forces earned more than words of gratitude. They earned the right to a burial that recognizes their sacrifice with the full honors of their service. At Saddleback Chapel Mortuary in Tustin, California, we help families of veterans navigate the burial process, coordinate military funeral honors. We help families of veterans understand the earned benefits they can claim from the VA.

Military Funeral Honors at the Graveside

Under federal law, every eligible veteran is entitled to military funeral honors at no cost. At a minimum, this includes two uniformed service members who fold and present the American flag to the next of kin and play Taps. Depending on the branch of service and availability, additional elements may include:

Honor guard detail. Uniformed service members who perform the ceremony with precision and respect.
Rifle salute. A three-volley rifle salute performed at the graveside.
Flag folding and presentation. The American flag is draped over the casket, folded into the traditional triangle, and presented to the family with the words, ‘On behalf of the President of the United States and a grateful nation…’
Bugler or recorded Taps. The playing of Taps, either by a live bugler or via a high-quality recording device placed inside a ceremonial bugle.

Saddleback Chapel Mortuary coordinates directly with the appropriate military branch to schedule honors. We handle all communication and logistics so that the ceremony proceeds smoothly.

National Cemetery Burial

Eligible veterans and their spouses may be buried in a national cemetery at no cost for the gravesite, opening and closing, a government headstone or marker, and perpetual care. Riverside National Cemetery, located in Riverside County approximately 40 miles from Tustin, is the nearest national cemetery serving Orange County families.

Saddleback Chapel Mortuary handles the eligibility verification, scheduling, and transportation to Riverside National Cemetery. We attend the graveside service and manage every detail from departure to committal.

Private Cemetery Burial for Veterans

Veterans who prefer burial in a private cemetery retain their eligibility for several VA benefits:

VA-furnished headstone or marker. Provided at no cost and shipped directly to the cemetery for installation.
Burial allowance. A monetary benefit to help offset funeral and burial expenses. The amount depends on whether the death was service-related.
Presidential Memorial Certificate. An engraved certificate signed by the President honoring the veteran’s service.

Our team provides a referral to the VA for eligibility determination and benefit applications, and coordinates with the cemetery of your choice.

What You Will Need

To arrange military honors and apply for VA burial benefits, the most important document is the veteran’s DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). If your family does not have a copy, we can help you request one through the National Personnel Records Center. Additional documents that may be needed include:

Death certificate (we prepare this as part of our services)
Marriage certificate (if the spouse is requesting benefits)
Social Security number of the veteran
Service history details (branch, dates of service, rank)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for military funeral honors?

Any veteran who served on active duty and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable is generally eligible. National Guard and Reserve members who completed at least one term of enlistment or fulfilled their obligation may also qualify.

Is there a cost for burial at Riverside National Cemetery?

No. Eligible veterans and their spouses receive a gravesite, headstone, opening and closing, and perpetual care at no charge.

Can military honors be held at a private cemetery?

Yes. Military funeral honors can be performed at any cemetery, not just national cemeteries. We coordinate with the military honor guard regardless of the burial location.

What if I cannot find the DD-214?

Our team can help you request a copy from the National Personnel Records Center. Processing times vary, but expedited requests are sometimes available for funeral purposes.

Let Us Help You Honor Your Loved One

To arrange a veteran’s burial with full honors, call Saddleback Chapel Mortuary at (714) 544-1450. It is our privilege to serve those who served.