What types of headstones does the VA provide?

Upright headstones in granite or marble, flat markers in granite, marble, or bronze, and bronze niche markers for columbaria. A bronze medallion for attachment to a privately purchased headstone is also available as an alternative to a marker.

What is included in a VA headstone inscription?

The veteran's name, branch of service, and dates of birth and death are standard and included at no cost. Rank, war service, awards, and a religious emblem may be added, also at no cost.

Can I choose which type of VA marker I get?

You choose, but the cemetery constrains the choice. Many cemeteries require flat markers only so grounds can be mown, and some sections accept only bronze. Confirm the cemetery's regulations in writing before selecting a type.

Does the VA offer bronze markers for cremated remains?

Yes. A bronze niche marker sized to the niche front is available for cremated remains inurned in a columbarium. Cremation does not reduce eligibility in any way.

Are VA religious emblems limited to a few faiths?

No. The VA maintains a long list of available emblems of belief covering many faiths and non-religious worldviews. If the emblem you want is not on the list, there is a process to request that a new one be added.

Upright Headstones

Upright headstones are the traditional full-size memorial: a vertical stone set on a base, usually with a name, dates, inscription and sometimes an image or other design.

An upright headstone gives you more visible space than a flat marker and allows for a wider range of lettering, symbols and personalization. Granite is the most common material, while marble remains an option in some settings. Before choosing one, confirm what your cemetery allows, what the complete installation will cost, and which parts are included in the quote.

What makes an upright headstone different?

Unlike a flat grave marker, an upright memorial rises above the ground and is normally made from a tablet mounted on a separate base. The proportions, thickness, finish and shape can vary considerably.

That extra surface area is useful when you want more than a name and dates. Families may add an inscription, religious symbol, military emblem, artwork, epitaph or other personalized elements.

Granite or marble?

Granite is widely used because it is hard, durable and available in many colors and finishes. Marble has a different appearance and can produce a softer, more traditional look, but it weathers differently.

What can go on an upright headstone?

Full name and dates
Additional inscription or epitaph
Religious or cultural symbols
Military or organizational emblems
Engraved artwork or decorative elements
Portraits or other personalization, where permitted

The cemetery comes first

Before ordering a stone, get the cemetery's rules in writing. A cemetery may restrict the height, width, thickness, material, color, finish, foundation or type of memorial allowed in a particular section.

A stone that looks perfect in a catalog is not useful if the cemetery will not accept its dimensions or design.

What does an upright headstone cost?

The price of the stone is only one part of the final cost. The complete amount can also involve lettering, design work, foundation, setting, delivery and cemetery fees.

Ask for every part of the quote separately. That makes it much easier to compare two memorials that appear to have similar prices.

Before you order

Understand the stone, the material and the costs before you speak with a monument company.

Compare headstone costs →