Volunteering to Clean Veterans' Graves

Many veterans have no family left to tend their graves. Volunteers across Canada and the US help keep these memorials clean and readable — a powerful way to say thank you.

Finding a program

• Veterans' organisations and legions.
• Historical and genealogical societies.
• Scouts, Guides and school groups.
• National cemetery volunteer programs.

See placing flags on graves.

Get permission first

Always contact the cemetery before cleaning any headstone. National and military cemeteries have strict rules; private cemeteries may need family permission.

Safe cleaning methods

• Water and a soft brush first.
• A biological cleaner made for stone, if approved.
• Never use bleach, wire brushes or pressure washers.
• Don't use chalk or shaving cream to read inscriptions.

See how to clean a marble headstone — many military stones are marble — and cleaners never to use.

Etiquette

• Work quietly and respectfully.
• Photograph before and after.
• Say the veteran's name aloud — a common gesture of remembrance.
• Record any damage for the cemetery.

Learning about the veteran

Before cleaning, look up the veteran's name and unit. Many volunteers find it meaningful to share a short biography with their group, so the person behind the stone is remembered too. Records from national archives and war graves organisations can tell you where they served and what happened to them. Some groups create small cards with each veteran's story to leave at the grave or share online.

Key Takeaways

• Volunteers keep veterans' graves cared for.
• Always get cemetery permission first.
• Use water, soft brushes and stone-safe cleaners only.
• Work quietly and record damage.

Next Step

See Memorial Day vs Veterans Day vs Remembrance Day.