Does the Military Do Burials at Sea?
When honoring veterans and active-duty service members, the military offers several dignified options for final farewells, including burials at sea. Sea burials aren’t just ancient traditions or something you see in movies. These ceremonies are still carried out today and hold profound significance for those who have served their country.
Find out who qualifies for a Burial at Sea aboard a United States Navy vessel and what options outside the Naval program are available for both military and non-military personnel.
What is the Navy's Burial at Sea Program?
The Naval Burial at Sea program is a solemn and honorable tradition that allows active-duty service members, veterans, military retirees, and certain dependents of the armed forces to be laid to rest at sea. This program provides an alternative to traditional burials on land and is steeped in naval customs and maritime traditions. Unfortunately, the family cannot be present as the committal ceremony occurs on naval vessels that are actively deployed. However, the commanding officer will notify the family when and where the sea burial will occur
Great care and respect is given to the deceased and their families. The program is available worldwide, allowing service members and their families to choose the location that is special to them. The ceremony often includes religious or spiritual elements based on the departed or their loved one’s preferences. Enrollment requirements must be met before requesting a sea burial to participate in the program and have ashes scattered or remains interred.
Armed-Forces Burial at Sea Program Eligibility
Eligibility criteria often include honorable discharge. Military documentation may be required to verify service records. Veterans who meet these qualifications are entitled to this unique form of burial, a gesture that honors their commitment and sacrifice.
Anyone can have their ashes scattered or remains buried at sea, but obtaining these services from the U.S. military is limited to the following:
- Active-duty service members
- Honorably discharged veterans
- Retired military personnel
- Civilian personnel of the Military Sealift Command
- Dependents of members, retirees, and veterans of the uniformed services
Following the passing of an eligible individual, an authorized person may contact the Navy and Marine Corps Mortuary Affairs office to formally request a Burial at Sea and submit the required documents.
Can Non-Military Be Buried At Sea?
While military ocean burials are reserved for service members and certain dependents of the armed forces, non-military personnel can also be buried at sea through private companies. Boat charters specializing in sea burials offer ash scattering services to civilians who wish to have their final resting place in the ocean. These services may include personalized ceremonies and options for scattering ashes or interring remains in biodegradable containers, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial methods.
Timeline for Military Funeral Honors Sea Burial
When your departed soldier or military vet receives, their burial depends on multiple factors such as location, personnel availability and weather conditions. Meticulous planning goes into these ceremonies, and according to the Navy HR website, the average wait time for an ocean burial is 12 to 18 months. This does not include the application process, the time it takes to prepare the remains or cremains for transportation, or the travel time to arrive at the port of embarkation. Sometimes, it can be up to 2 years or more before the committal ceremony is scheduled and performed.
Why Book a Private Sea Burial Service for Military Personnel?
While the U.S. military offers formal burials at sea, some families may hire a civilian vessel specializing in ash scatterings instead. Private services provide flexibility in scheduling the ash scattering when convenient for all family members. Unlike the military, there isn’t a long wait time, and you can personalize the ceremony and honor the deceased’s personal beliefs or traditions. In some cases, veteran’s families or next of kin may be eligible for reimbursement of burial expenses.
Hiring a private charter also allows families and friends to attend the ash scattering ceremony, providing a safe voyage for attendees, unlike the military program, which does not allow loved ones to be aboard the naval vessel. Opting for a private ash release ceremony provides loved ones with an intimate setting where they can grieve together, share memories, and offer each other solace during the emotionally challenging time.
