Honoring Canada's Heroes: Understanding the Veterans Affairs Canada Headstone Program

​The service and sacrifice of our Canadian veterans are a fundamental part of our national identity. To ensure their memory is perpetually honoured, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), in partnership with the Last Post Fund, provides grave markers for eligible veterans. These markers serve as a dignified and lasting tribute. This blog will explore the specifics of this vital program, focusing on its benefits, costs, and how to properly care for these important monuments.

​The Lasting Tribute: Benefits of the Program

​Veterans Affairs Canada's Funeral and Burial Program, administered by the Last Post Fund, ensures that eligible veterans receive a grave marker. This is a crucial benefit for families, relieving the financial burden of purchasing a private marker.

​Key benefits of the program:

​Financial Assistance: The program helps cover funeral and burial costs, including the purchase and installation of a military grave marker. This assistance is based on a "means-tested" or a "matter of right" criteria. This ensures that veterans who died as a result of a service-related disability, or those whose estates lack the financial resources to cover the costs, are provided for.

​Wide Eligibility: The program is available to a broad range of individuals. This includes former members of the Canadian Armed Forces and its predecessor forces, as well as Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans and Allied Veterans from the Second World War or the Korean War who meet specific residency requirements.

​Unmarked Graves Program: For veterans whose graves have been unmarked for five years or more and who have not previously received funeral and burial funding, the Last Post Fund's Unmarked Grave Program provides a permanent military marker. This initiative ensures no veteran is forgotten.

​Variety of Markers: Depending on cemetery regulations, the Last Post Fund provides either an upright or flat grey granite military-style marker, ensuring consistency and a dignified appearance.

​The Cost Breakdown: What Families Can Expect

​While the grave marker itself is provided by the program, it's important for families to understand that other costs may apply, especially if the veteran is not buried in a military or veteran-specific cemetery.

​No Cost for the Marker: The military grave marker and its inscription are provided free of charge to eligible families through the Last Post Fund.

​Associated Costs: The program covers various funeral and burial expenses up to a certain maximum. This can include the cost of a plot, cremation, and the services of a funeral director. However, it's important to note that the total amount of assistance is calculated based on the Veterans Burial Regulations. Families should work closely with the Last Post Fund to understand what is covered.

​Plot and Interment Fees: The cost of the burial plot itself and the fees for opening and closing the grave are a significant part of funeral expenses. While the program can provide financial assistance for these, it's crucial to confirm the specifics with the Last Post Fund, as every case is unique.

​Caring for a Veteran's Headstone: A Guide to Respectful Cleaning

​Caring for a veteran's grave marker is a way to show ongoing respect and gratitude. Veterans Affairs Canada maintains over 250,000 grave markers across the country. However, individuals may also wish to assist in the care of these monuments. It is essential to do so with caution and respect.

​VAC's Role: Veterans Affairs Canada has a Grave Marker Maintenance Program that conducts regular inspections and repairs of grave markers under their care. They are the primary entity responsible for the long-term maintenance of these sites. If you notice a marker in need of repair or maintenance, it's best to contact VAC directly at 1-866-522-2122.

​By understanding the vital work of the Last Post Fund and Veterans Affairs Canada, and by respecting the integrity of these monuments, we can all contribute to ensuring that the legacy of Canada's veterans is preserved for future generations. These grave markers are a powerful symbol of our nation's enduring gratitude for their service and sacrifice.