Military and Veteran Funeral Services in Middletown, NJ
Veterans deserve funeral services that reflect the honor and courage they have shown throughout their lives. At John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, we proudly offer veteran funeral services in Middletown, NJ to recognize and commemorate the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes. Supporting veterans and their families as they honor a legacy of service is a profound responsibility we humbly accept. Our commitment is rooted in respect, gratitude, and admiration for those who have dedicated their lives to our country.
We are here to help you pay tribute to your loved one with the dignity and reverence they so deeply deserve. Learn more about how we can help you celebrate a life of service with the utmost care and esteem.
Eligibility for Military Funeral Honors
Service to the nation reflects a profound dedication, and honoring that commitment is a privilege many families rightfully deserve. Determining eligibility for a veteran funeral service is an essential step in celebrating their life of service with the recognition they earned. Below, we outline the eligibility requirements to help you understand what qualifies a loved one for military funeral services for veterans:
- Active-Duty Service Member – Any service member who was serving on active duty at the time of their passing qualifies without exception.
- Selected Reserve Member – Members of the Selected Reserve who passed away while actively serving or were discharged due to a service-related disability qualify.
- Honorably Discharged Veteran – Former service members who separated from active duty with an honorable discharge meet eligibility standards for this distinction.
- Completed Obligated Service – Individuals who fulfilled a term of enlistment or their initial service obligations and received an honorable discharge are also eligible.
Who Is Not Eligible for Military Funeral Honors?
- Dishonorable Discharge – Any individual separated from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions is not eligible for a military funeral service.
- Failure to Enlist – Individuals who reported to an induction station but were not inducted into military service do not meet the eligibility criteria.
- Incomplete Reserve Service – Those discharged from the Selected Reserve without completing one term of enlistment or initial obligated service, except for a service-related disability, are ineligible.
- Capital Crimes – Individuals convicted of Federal or State capital crimes and sentenced to death or life imprisonment cannot receive military funeral honors.
Military Funeral Honors
A service member’s dedication deserves recognition that reflects the profound respect of our nation. Thanks to Section 578 of Public Law 106-65, enacted on January 1, 2000, families of eligible veterans can request a military veteran funeral service. The ceremony includes an honor guard detail of at least two members of the Armed Forces, one of whom represents the branch the veteran served. Tradition and solemnity guide the proceedings, with the folding and presentation of the American flag to the next of kin serving as a moment of deep significance. The poignant notes of "Taps" are played to mark a final farewell, a gesture of gratitude for honorable service to the country.
Types of Veteran Funeral Services
John F. Pfleger Funeral Home is proudly devoted to celebrating the lives of those who have served our country with honorable distinction. Our services include comprehensive military funeral options that hold their commitment and sacrifice in the highest esteem. Families can choose from traditional burials or cremation services, with each option thoughtfully arranged to pay tribute to the veteran's legacy. We can also help facilitate a dignified, eco-conscious final resting place for those interested in natural green burials. Planning in advance is also available, allowing veterans peace of mind as they outline their final wishes.
All of our funeral services are conducted with the utmost respect, ensuring an impactful experience for loved ones. Our goal is to create a compassionate farewell that memorializes a life of service.
Headstones and Markers
The VA provides a headstone or marker for an eligible veteran. This may also apply to dependents buried in qualifying cemeteries.
Presidential Memorial Certificate
A personalized certificate signed by the president is available to honor a veteran's contributions and dedication.
Burial in a National Cemetery
Eligible veterans can be interred in a national cemetery, which covers the gravesite, opening, closing, and perpetual care.
Memorial Plots
If the remains are unavailable for burial, the VA may provide a plot and marker in a national cemetery to commemorate the veteran.
Reimbursement of Burial Costs
Depending on eligibility, families may receive monetary assistance through VA burial allowances to help offset funeral and burial expenses.
Honoring Our Heroes with Dignity
John F. Pfleger Funeral Home has offered funeral services for veterans and active service members since 1956. We deeply value the immense sacrifices made by veterans and their families, and we’re here to help lighten the burden of planning your loved one’s final tribute. From coordinating military honors to helping you access VA burial benefits, we will guide you through every last detail. Contact us today to discuss funeral arrangement options and learn how we can support you in this significant responsibility.