Honoring the life of a veteran is a meaningful way to recognize their service, sacrifice, and dedication to our country. For many families, understanding available veteran funeral benefits in Missouri can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. At Baue Funeral Homes, we are honored to assist veteran families by guiding them through available benefits and ensuring every eligible honor is provided with dignity and respect.

Honoring Those Who Served

Veterans have earned the gratitude of our nation, and funeral services are an important opportunity to reflect that gratitude. Military funeral honors and veteran benefits are designed to recognize service while easing some of the logistical and financial responsibilities for families.

Baue Funeral Homes has experience working closely with families, veterans’ organizations, and military honor guards to ensure each veteran receives the recognition they deserve.

Who Is Eligible for Veteran Funeral Benefits?

Eligibility for veteran funeral benefits generally includes:

• Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
• Veterans who were honorably discharged
• In some cases, eligible spouses and dependents

Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the specific benefit. Our funeral directors help families and gather required documentation, such as discharge papers (DD Form 214).

Military Funeral Honors

One of the most meaningful tributes a veteran can receive is military funeral honors. These honors are provided at no cost and are coordinated through the appropriate military branch.

Military honors typically include:

• Presentation of the American flag to the next of kin
• Playing of “Taps”
• Uniformed service members performing ceremonial duties

Baue Funeral Homes coordinates these honors on behalf of the family, ensuring everything is arranged smoothly and respectfully.

Burial Benefits for Veterans

Eligible veterans may qualify for burial benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits may include:

• Burial in a national or state veterans cemetery
• Gravesite, opening and closing of the grave (in a VA cemetery)
• Government-furnished headstone or marker
• Burial flag

Veterans cemeteries provide a dignified final resting place, and Baue Funeral Homes assists families with scheduling, transportation, and coordination when a national or state cemetery is selected.

Cremation and Veteran Benefits

Veteran benefits apply to both burial and cremation services. Cremated remains may be buried or placed in a niche at a national or state veterans cemetery, with the same honors and markers available to those choosing traditional burial.

Families who choose cremation may still receive:

• Military funeral honors
• Burial flag
• Headstone or marker

Our funeral directors help families understand how veteran benefits integrate with cremation services and memorial options.

Personalizing a Veteran’s Service

While military honors are a powerful tribute, families often choose to further personalize a veteran’s service. Personalization options may include:

• Display of medals or uniforms
• Patriotic music or readings
• Military-themed memorial displays
• Inclusion of veteran organizations or honor guards

At Baue Funeral Homes, we believe each service should reflect not only military service, but also the life, personality, and values of the individual.

Compassionate Guidance Every Step of the Way

Navigating veteran funeral benefits can be complex, but families do not have to do it alone. Our experienced funeral directors provide compassionate guidance, handle coordination with the VA and military branches, and ensure no detail is overlooked.

Baue Funeral Homes proudly serves veterans and their families throughout St. Charles County, including O’Fallon, St. Charles, St. Peters, Cave Springs, and the St. Louis Region. We consider it a privilege to help honor those who have served our country.

Here to Honor Your Veteran

If you have lost a loved one who served in the military or are planning ahead for yourself or a family member, Baue Funeral Homes is here to help. We will explain available veteran funeral benefits, answer your questions, and create a service that reflects honor, gratitude, and respect.

For more information about veteran funeral services in Missouri, or to speak with a funeral director, please contact Baue Funeral Homes or visit baue.com.