Veterans who chose not to be buried in a national or state VA cemetery, but still want a government-furnished grave marker have a new option in the form of a new VA benefit. The bronze medallions-depicting a three-dimensional folded flag surrounded by laurel wreath with the word "Veteran" on top and the service branch spelled out below-are available in three diameter dimensions: five inches, three inches and 11/2 inches. VA says the different dimensions are designed to fit on various-size headstones, grave markers and columbarium or mausoleum niche covers. Veterans or family members interested in applying for the medallion can access (www.cem.va.gov/hm_hm.asp.) Until a new form for specially for ordering is available use VA Form 40-1330. VA created medallion in accordance to Public Law 110-157, enacted on Dec. 26 2007, which directed VA to furnish upon request to signify the deceased's status as a veteran, to be attached to a headstone or marker furnished at private expense.
