There is a patch on the back of my vest that I respect. It reads “The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.” Currently 25% of all the deaths in the US are veterans. Only 4% pass away in a veterans hospital. Hospice plays a strong role supporting the others. To remember and honor veterans, federal benefits are available. Let me point out a few. If you need more information, please call me.
Every veteran is entitled to a government burial marker. These markers are usually a granite stone set flat in the cemetery. In most of the area cemeteries, families use the stone as a foot stone. National and state military cemeteries all have different requirements on markers. The funeral director will handle the information needed for the stone or, can be filled out by the family; the information on the stone is basic with few options to personalize.
Every veteran is entitled to a United States flag. The flag can be obtained through a local post office. If the veteran was in a Veterans Hospital the flag travels with the deceased. At the end of the service, the flag is presented to the family.
Every veteran is entitled to military honors. Active duty soldiers will come to the cemetery, church, or other location for a service. They are honored to serve on burial duty. Locally, we have a strong showing of veterans. It is nice for the family to see other local veterans offering support. Even a small 10 minute service with military honors, leaves a lifelong impression.
Every veteran is offered a burial site in a national cemetery. The state of Vermont does not have national cemetery but the state cemetery can offer some of the services at a military rate.
There are more benefits depending on the rank and honors of the veteran. I can research the information or let you know where to look. Williams River Services always offers discounts to our Veterans and there spouses and can with each of the benefits.
Visiting Nurses and Hospice of Vermont and New Hampshire has recently been recognized as a We Honor Veterans Partner. They will help provide care and support that reflects the important contributions made by these men and women. We Honor Veterans, is a pioneering campaign developed by National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. This is a great organization that has come to the forefront. Their web site is www.wehonorveterans.org.
Williams River Services applaud The Visiting Nurses and Hospice of Vermont and New Hampshire for doing their part for America’s veterans in the area. Quality end of life services for our veterans is important in honoring those who have served and the longevity of our great nation. “The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.” The United States of America and its veterans will never be forgotten.
