Headstone Ideas for an Army Veteran: Symbols and Wording

An Army veteran's headstone records more than dates. It can show where they served, what they stood for and how proud the family is of them. These ideas cover symbols, service details and wording for soldiers of every era.

Symbol and etching ideas

A battlefield cross — rifle, boots and helmet — the soldier's traditional tribute.
The national flag waving above the name — see military headstone symbols.
Dog tags etched with name and service number (leave out personal ID numbers if you prefer).
A poppy for Canadian and Commonwealth veterans — see poppy meaning.
An eagle — see eagle meaning.

Personal touches

Rank, branch and unit, written out in full.
Years of service and conflicts, such as "Korea" or "Afghanistan".
Decorations such as a Purple Heart or Bronze Star.
A photo in uniform, laser-etched on black granite.
Their service motto, where it is not a trademark.

Epitaph ideas

He served with honour.
Soldier, husband, father.
Duty done. Rest easy.
Greater love hath no man than this. (John 15:13)
Gone but not forgotten.

Emblems and permission

Official service emblems, seals and logos are usually trademarks controlled by the military. Some families get permission to use them; others choose generic designs such as a flag, eagle, helmet or dog tags, which need no approval. See can you put a logo on a headstone.

Government options

In the U.S., an eligible veteran in a private cemetery can receive a government headstone or marker, or a bronze medallion to attach to a private headstone. See VA medallion for a private headstone and VA headstone rules. In Canada, the Last Post Fund helps eligible veterans' families — see Last Post Fund markers.

Design tips

Check spelling of unit names and abbreviations — see military headstone inscriptions.
Keep service details to two or three lines so the name stays the focus.
Black granite shows an etched battlefield cross best.
Leave room to add a spouse's name later.