What Do You Write on a Military Headstone?

A military headstone is not just stone. It is a record of service, honor, and life. Families want to show both pride and love. Knowing what to write is important, since these words last for generations.

Standard Inscriptions

In the U.S., the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) gives clear rules. A military headstone often has:

Full Name
Rank (ex: Pvt, Sgt, Capt)
Branch of Service (ex: USA, USN, USAF, USMC, USCG)
Years of birth and death
War service (ex: WWI, WWII, Korea, VNM, OIF)

These short forms, or abbrv, save space and are easy to read.

Example From One Family

Take the story of James R. Miller. He was a Sgt in the U.S. Army during WWII. His stone reads:

James R. Miller
Sgt U.S. Army
WWII
1921 – 1998

His daughter said she wanted to keep it clear and simple. She added a short line at the end: Beloved Father. This shows both his role as a soldier and as a parent.

Extra Lines of Meaning

Families can also add words called epitaphs. These may be short, like:

Rest in Peace
Forever Loved
Duty, Honor, Country

Some stones show faith with a cross, star, or other symbol. This is optional but allowed by the VA.

Facts and Rules

The VA provides free headstones for eligible vets. This program has been in place since the 19th centry. Records show more than 12 million stones have been issued. The size, style, and font follow rules so cemetry grounds stay uniform.

A Human Touch

Behind each headstone is a life. Words may be short, but they speak loud. For families, the inscription brings comfort. For vistors, it shows respect. A headstone is not only a marker, but also a story in stone.

Read more: https://www.cnmonument.com/blog