Veteran grave markers and headstones, design-built
A veteran's marker should say who they were and how they served. At The Monument Store, a veteran headstone or grave marker is a design-build project. You work with one project manager from the first conversation to the day the stone is set. That person is your design consultant for the whole job.
Many families start with the VA. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs can furnish a government headstone, marker or medallion for an eligible veteran, and the VA decides who qualifies. We don't make that call. Some families choose the government marker, and others want a private stone with a branch emblem, service details or a personal line. We design private stones.
Your project manager checks the cemetery's rules before a drawing starts. A lead designer then prepares a CAD proof with the name, the dates, the branch and the line you choose. Nothing is cut until you approve it.
Every stone is made at Gifford Monument Works in Ada, Oklahoma. We install nearby or ship free. Elsewhere in the lower 48 it ships ready for your cemetery or a local setter. Start with a free design consult.
Questions
Does the VA provide a headstone or grave marker for veterans?
- The VA can furnish a government headstone, marker or medallion for an eligible veteran. Eligibility is decided by the VA, not by a monument company. Check the current rules on VA.gov, and our article on VA headstone benefits gives an overview.
What is the difference between a VA marker and a private veteran headstone?
- A VA-furnished marker follows the VA's styles and inscription format. A private headstone is designed and paid for by the family, so the shape, granite and wording are yours to choose within the cemetery's rules.
What can go on a veteran headstone?
- Families often include the name, dates, branch of service, rank, a war or era, and a branch emblem or symbol. A lead designer lays it out on the CAD proof, and you approve every letter before anything is cut.
Can a VA medallion go on a private headstone?
- The VA offers a bronze medallion that can be attached to a privately purchased headstone in some cases. The VA sets the conditions, so confirm them on VA.gov before you plan around one.
Does the cemetery have rules for veteran markers?
- Yes. Every cemetery sets its own size and placement rules, and national and state veterans cemeteries have their own requirements. Your project manager checks the rules for the lot before a drawing starts.
How do I get started?
- Book a free design consult. Bring the veteran's name, service details and the cemetery name if you have them. We install nearby or ship free.