When planning a memorial for a loved one who served in the military, families often ask:
Do you need a different headstone for veterans?
The short answer is yes—veterans’ headstones follow specific design standards set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These markers honor their service and ensure consistency across national cemeteries. However, families also have options for customizing or upgrading these memorials for personal preference.

In this article, we’ll explain what makes veteran headstones unique, the types available, and how you can properly honor a veteran while meeting VA and cemetery guidelines.

What Makes Veteran Headstones Different?

Veteran headstones are designed to:

• Recognize Military Service: Each marker includes branch of service, rank, and often a religious emblem.

• Meet VA Standards: The VA has strict size, material, and inscription requirements.

• Ensure Uniformity: In national cemeteries, uniform markers create a dignified, consistent appearance.

These headstones are typically granite or marble (for upright styles) or flat bronze or granite markers for ground-level memorials.

Does the VA Provide Headstones for Veterans?

Yes! The Department of Veterans Affairs provides free government-issued headstones, markers, or medallions for eligible veterans. This applies whether they’re buried in a national cemetery, state veterans cemetery, or private cemetery.

What’s Included:

• Headstone or marker: Upright or flat, depending on the cemetery.

• Engraving: Name, rank, branch, birth and death dates, optional emblem of belief.

• Delivery to cemetery: The VA ships the marker to the cemetery at no cost.

Families, however, are responsible for installation fees in private cemeteries.

Learn more on the VA website →

Types of VA Headstones Available

The VA offers several options:

1. Upright Marble or Granite Headstones

• Standard size: 42" tall, 13" wide, 4" thick

• Available in white marble or gray granite

• Common in national and state veterans cemeteries

2. Flat Markers

• Granite or Marble: Typically 24" x 12"

• Bronze: Mounted on granite or concrete bases

• Often used in private cemeteries

3. Bronze Niche Markers

For cremation remains placed in a columbarium.

4. Medallions

If a family chooses a private headstone, the VA can supply a bronze medallion that indicates military service, which is affixed to the existing marker.

Can Families Add Personal Touches?

Yes—but there are rules. VA-issued headstones follow a standard layout, but families can request:

• A personal inscription (up to 3 lines)

• Emblems of belief (cross, Star of David, etc.)

• War service insignias (World War II, Korea, Vietnam)

If you want a fully customized headstone (with photos, color designs, or unique shapes), you may choose to order a private monument in addition to or instead of the VA-issued headstone.

What About Private Cemeteries?

In private cemeteries, VA-provided markers are allowed, but placement may depend on cemetery rules. Some cemeteries require flush markers for ease of maintenance, even for veterans.

Before ordering, always:

• Check with the cemetery about marker type and size restrictions

• Confirm installation costs and timelines

• Coordinate delivery between the VA and the cemetery

How to Apply for a Veteran Headstone

Families can request a VA headstone by submitting VA Form 40-1330. You’ll need:

• Veteran’s full name and service details

• Copy of discharge papers (DD214)

• Burial location information

Apply for a VA Headstone →

Choosing a Private Veteran Headstone

Some families opt for a private monument for additional personalization, such as:

• Larger inscriptions

• Full-color portraits or laser etching

• Sculpted designs (eagles, flags, military emblems)

At Richfield Monuments, we specialize in custom veteran memorials that complement VA standards while adding personal meaning. Our team ensures compliance with cemetery rules and helps incorporate military symbols into unique designs.

Final Thoughts

So, do you need a different headstone for veterans? Yes, because military service is honored through specific designs regulated by the VA. Eligible veterans can receive a free government-issued headstone, but families also have the option to purchase a custom monument for a more personal tribute.

If you’re ready to design a meaningful memorial for a veteran, contact Richfield Monuments today. We’ll guide you through the process—whether you choose a VA marker, a private monument, or a combination of both—to ensure your loved one’s service is remembered with dignity.