Adding a Spouse to a Veteran's Headstone

Many couples want to be remembered together where a veteran rests. The options depend on the cemetery and the type of headstone.

Government headstones in national cemeteries

In US national cemeteries, eligible spouses buried in the same grave are usually inscribed on the veteran's government headstone, often on the back. The cemetery arranges it.

Private cemeteries

Rules for adding a spouse to a government headstone in a private cemetery differ. Check with the VA and the cemetery. Many families instead choose:

• A private companion headstone with both names and the veteran's service details — see military inscriptions
• A VA medallion fixed to a privately purchased headstone, for eligible veterans

Canada

Veterans Affairs Canada and the Last Post Fund have their own rules on markers for eligible veterans. Contact them for current eligibility.

Designing a companion stone for a veteran

• Service line under the veteran's name: rank, branch, war or era
• A branch emblem or flag
• Shared epitaph across the bottom

See VA headstone rules.

Private companion stones for veterans

Families often choose a private companion stone with:

• Service details for the veteran.
• Matching style for the spouse.
• Emblems approved by the cemetery.

See military inscriptions.

Wording a spouse on a veteran's stone

On a private companion stone, families usually give equal space to both people, with service details only on the veteran's side:

A shared line across the base — "Together again" — ties the stone together. In government-provided markers in national cemeteries, spouse details follow the agency's format instead.

Key Takeaways

• National cemeteries usually inscribe spouses on the veteran's headstone.
• In private cemeteries, a companion stone is a common choice.
• Confirm eligibility with the VA or Veterans Affairs Canada.

Next Step

Design a companion stone with service details — request a quote.