Essential Criteria for Burial at Arlington National Cemetery: What You Need to Know

- Understanding the Criteria for Burial in Arlington National Cemetery
- Who is Eligible for Burial at Arlington National Cemetery?
- Military Service Requirements for Arlington National Cemetery Burial
- Additional Criteria for Family Members and Dependents
- Application Process for Burial at Arlington National Cemetery
- Common Myths and Misconceptions About Arlington National Cemetery Burial Criteria
Understanding the Criteria for Burial in Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery, one of the most hallowed grounds in the United States, has specific eligibility criteria for interment. Understanding these criteria is crucial for families and individuals seeking to honor their loved ones in this prestigious location. The primary requirement for burial is military service. Individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, are generally eligible for burial.
Eligibility Criteria for Active Duty and Veterans
To qualify for burial in Arlington National Cemetery, the following groups are considered:
- Active Duty Members: Any service member who is currently on active duty is eligible for burial.
- Veterans: Individuals who have been honorably discharged from active military service are also eligible.
- Reservists and National Guard: Members who have completed a minimum period of service or have been activated for federal duty may qualify.
- Cadets and Midshipmen: Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, and U.S. Air Force Academy are eligible for burial.
Criteria for Spouses and Dependents
In addition to service members, Arlington National Cemetery also allows for the burial of spouses and dependents. The eligibility criteria for these individuals include:
- Spouses: The surviving spouse of a qualifying service member is eligible for burial.
- Children: Unmarried children under the age of 21 or those who are permanently disabled are also eligible for burial alongside their parents.
Additional Considerations for Burial
It’s important to note that certain conditions may affect burial eligibility. For instance, those who were dishonorably discharged from military service are generally not eligible for interment in Arlington National Cemetery. Additionally, the cemetery also honors specific individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation, such as Medal of Honor recipients and certain government officials, who may be granted special exceptions.
Understanding these criteria is essential for families wishing to secure a burial plot in Arlington National Cemetery. By adhering to the established guidelines, families can ensure their loved ones receive the honor and respect they deserve in this historic and revered location.
Who is Eligible for Burial at Arlington National Cemetery?
Arlington National Cemetery, a revered site for honoring the sacrifices of military personnel, has specific eligibility criteria for burial. This prestigious cemetery primarily serves to commemorate those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, along with certain family members. Understanding the criteria for eligibility is essential for families considering this solemn honor.
Active Duty and Retired Military Personnel
The foremost group eligible for burial at Arlington includes individuals who are currently serving or have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. This includes active duty members, as well as those who are retired from military service. Additionally, individuals who have been honorably discharged from the military are also eligible for burial. This ensures that those who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation are given a final resting place among their peers.
Reservists and National Guard Members
Reservists and members of the National Guard can also qualify for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, but specific conditions apply. Eligibility is granted if these individuals have been called to active duty and have completed the required period of service. In some cases, members who have served for an extended period may also qualify, provided they meet certain criteria set by the cemetery administration.
Family Members
Family members of eligible service members can also be interred at Arlington. This includes spouses, minor children, and in some cases, dependent adult children. The eligibility of family members is a significant aspect of Arlington's commitment to honoring not just the service members but also the families who support them. It’s important to note that the eligibility for family members is contingent upon the service member’s status and burial at the cemetery.
Other Notable Exceptions
Certain notable individuals may also be considered for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, even if they do not fit the typical eligibility criteria. These exceptions are generally reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation, such as presidents, members of Congress, and other distinguished figures. The process for these exceptions is typically more rigorous and requires special approval from the cemetery's administration.
In summary, the eligibility for burial at Arlington National Cemetery is primarily centered around military service and the sacrifices made by those who serve. Understanding these criteria helps families navigate the process of honoring their loved ones in this hallowed ground.
Military Service Requirements for Arlington National Cemetery Burial
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most revered burial sites in the United States, honoring those who have served in the military. To be eligible for burial at this hallowed ground, certain military service requirements must be met. Understanding these requirements is essential for families seeking to honor their loved ones' service.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for burial in Arlington National Cemetery, the individual must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and meet specific criteria. The following categories are generally eligible:
- Active duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
- Former military personnel who have been honorably discharged.
- Reservists and National Guard members who were activated for federal service.
- Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, and U.S. Air Force Academy.
Additional Considerations
In addition to military service, certain conditions may affect eligibility. For example, individuals who were convicted of a federal or state capital crime and subsequently executed may not be buried in Arlington. Furthermore, any service member who has received a dishonorable discharge may also be ineligible for burial at the cemetery. It is important for families to review these stipulations when considering burial options.
Burial of Family Members
Arlington National Cemetery also honors the families of eligible service members. Spouses, minor children, and dependent adult children of eligible veterans can be buried alongside them, provided they meet the required conditions. This aspect of burial eligibility allows families to remain united even in death, creating a lasting legacy of service and sacrifice.
Application Process
The application process for burial at Arlington National Cemetery involves submitting the necessary documentation to verify military service. Families must provide proof of eligibility, such as a DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) or other relevant military records. Once the documentation is submitted, the cemetery staff will review the application to ensure compliance with the established military service requirements.
Additional Criteria for Family Members and Dependents
When considering family members and dependents for various benefits or immigration processes, it is crucial to understand the additional criteria that may apply. These criteria often vary depending on the specific program or policy in question, but several common factors are typically evaluated.
Relationship to the Primary Applicant
One of the primary criteria for determining eligibility is the nature of the relationship between the dependent and the primary applicant. This can include:
- Spouses: Must be legally married and provide documentation to verify the marriage.
- Children: Typically, biological children, adopted children, and stepchildren under a certain age may qualify.
- Dependent Parents: In some cases, parents may be considered dependents if they rely on the primary applicant for financial support.
Age Requirements
Age is another critical factor when assessing dependents. For instance, many programs have specific age limits, such as:
- Minor Children: Often defined as individuals under the age of 18.
- Dependent Students: Children who are full-time students may be eligible until they reach a specified age, often 21 or 24.
Financial Dependency
Financial dependency is a significant consideration when evaluating whether a family member qualifies as a dependent. Authorities may require proof that the dependent relies on the primary applicant for financial support. This can include:
- Proof of Income: Documentation showing that the primary applicant provides a significant portion of the dependent's financial needs.
- Shared Living Arrangements: Evidence that the dependent lives with the primary applicant, further indicating financial support.
Legal Status and Residency
The legal status of family members and dependents can also impact eligibility. In many cases, dependents must have legal residency or a specific immigration status to be considered. For example:
- Permanent Residents: Dependents who are permanent residents may have different criteria compared to those who are non-residents.
- Visa Holders: Specific visa categories may allow dependents to join the primary applicant, subject to additional requirements.
Understanding these additional criteria for family members and dependents is essential for navigating the complexities of eligibility for various benefits or immigration processes. Each situation may have unique requirements, and it is advisable to consult the relevant guidelines or seek professional advice to ensure compliance.
Application Process for Burial at Arlington National Cemetery
The application process for burial at Arlington National Cemetery is a critical step for eligible service members and their families. This revered site honors those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and understanding the application process is essential for ensuring a respectful and timely burial.
Eligibility Requirements
Before beginning the application process, it is important to verify eligibility. The following individuals may be interred at Arlington National Cemetery:
- Active duty service members
- Retired military personnel
- Veterans who have been honorably discharged
- Certain members of the National Guard and Reserves
- Dependents of eligible service members
To ensure a smooth application process, gather all necessary documentation, including discharge papers (DD Form 214) and any relevant military records that confirm eligibility.
Submitting the Application
Once eligibility is established, the next step is to submit the application for burial. The application can be initiated through the Arlington National Cemetery website or by contacting the cemetery directly. The application must include all required documentation, which may vary based on the applicant's status.
It is advisable to fill out the application as thoroughly and accurately as possible to avoid delays. Incomplete applications may lead to further inquiries or denial of burial requests.
Scheduling the Burial
After the application is approved, families will work with the cemetery’s scheduling office to set a date and time for the burial. It is important to note that Arlington National Cemetery can accommodate a large number of interments, so scheduling should be done as early as possible. Families will receive guidance on the next steps, including the type of service, military honors, and any special requests they may have for the ceremony.
Additional Considerations
Families should also be aware of additional considerations during the application process. For example, there are specific guidelines regarding burial plots, headstones, and markers. Understanding these guidelines can help families make informed decisions about their loved one's burial arrangements. It is recommended to consult the cemetery's official resources or speak with a representative for detailed information on these aspects.
By following these steps and understanding the eligibility criteria, families can navigate the application process for burial at Arlington National Cemetery with confidence and respect for the honor it represents.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About Arlington National Cemetery Burial Criteria
Many individuals hold misconceptions regarding the burial criteria at Arlington National Cemetery, often leading to confusion about who qualifies for interment. Understanding these myths is crucial for families and veterans alike, ensuring they have accurate information about this hallowed ground.
Myth 1: Only High-Ranking Military Officials Can Be Buried at Arlington
One prevalent misconception is that only high-ranking military officials, such as generals and admirals, are eligible for burial at Arlington National Cemetery. In reality, the eligibility criteria extend to a broader range of individuals. This includes any member of the armed forces who has served honorably, as well as certain family members of those eligible veterans. The criteria are designed to honor a wide array of service, not just those in leadership positions.
Myth 2: Burial at Arlington Is Limited to Active Duty Personnel
Another common myth is that only active-duty service members can be buried at Arlington. While active duty personnel do have eligibility, veterans who have been honorably discharged from service also qualify. This includes those who served in wartime and peacetime, providing a more inclusive approach to honoring those who have served their country.
Myth 3: You Must Be a Resident of Virginia to Be Buried at Arlington
Many people mistakenly believe that residency in Virginia is a prerequisite for burial at Arlington National Cemetery. This is not the case. The cemetery honors military personnel from all states, regardless of their place of residence. Eligibility is based on military service rather than geographical location, ensuring that veterans from across the nation can find their final resting place in this historic site.
Myth 4: Family Members Cannot Be Buried Alongside Veterans
A further misconception is that family members of veterans cannot be interred at Arlington National Cemetery. In fact, certain family members, including spouses and dependent children, are eligible for burial alongside the veteran. This provision allows families to remain together even in death, honoring the sacrifices made by both the service member and their loved ones.
Understanding these myths and misconceptions can help clarify the eligibility criteria for Arlington National Cemetery, ensuring that families have the correct information regarding their options for honoring their loved ones.

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