The Department of Veterans Affairs provides a medallion, by request, to be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker to signify the deceased's status as a Veteran.

If requested, the medallion is furnished in lieu of a traditional Government headstone or marker for Veterans that died on or after November 1, 1990, and whose grave is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker.

The medallion is currently available in three sizes, 5 inches, 3 inches, and 1-1/2 inches. Each medallion will be inscribed with the word "VETERAN" across the top and the Branch of Service at the bottom. Appropriate affixing adhesive, instructions and hardware are provided with the medallion.

Important: This benefit is only applicable if the grave is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker. In these instances, eligible Veterans are entitled to either a traditional Government-furnished headstone or marker, or the medallion, but not both.

For family members of eligible Veterans interested in submitting a claim for the medallion, instructions on how to apply for a medallion are on NCA's web site at www.cem.va.gov/hm_hm.asp. Please use VA Form 40-1330M, Claim for Government Medallion for Placement in a Private Cemetery.  A PDF of the form is available for printing below for you convenience.