Burial and Cemeteries
Veteran Cemeteries in Massachusetts
There are several federal and state-owned veteran cemeteries located throughout Massachusetts. These cemeteries provide honorable burial options for eligible veterans and their families.
Federal Veteran Cemeteries
| Name | Burial Space | Location |
| Massachusetts National Cemetery | Open | Bourne, MA |
| Woodlawn Cemetery Soldiers Lot | Closed | Ayer, MA |
| Fort Devens Post Cemetery | Closed | Devens |
State-Owned Veteran Memorial Cemeteries
| Name | Burial Space | Location |
| Winchendon Veterans Memorial Cemetery | Open | Winchendon, MA |
| Agawam Veterans Memorial Cemetery | Open | Agawam, MA |
Eligibility and Burial Benefits
Veterans are eligible for burial in federal or state-owned cemeteries at no cost.
Eligible family members may also qualify, including:
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Spouses, widows, or widowers
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Minor dependent children
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In certain cases, unmarried adult children with disabilities
Eligible spouses and children may be buried even if they predecease the veteran.
Note: A fee is typically required for the burial of a spouse or dependent in state-owned cemeteries.
What Is Included at No Cost
For eligible veterans, burial benefits include:
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Opening and closing of the grave
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A grave liner
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A government-issued headstone or marker
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A burial flag
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A Presidential Memorial Certificate
Additional Costs Not Covered
While burial in a federal or state veterans cemetery for a veteran is provided at no cost,
many related services are not covered.
Families should be aware that the following expenses are typically their responsibility:
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Funeral home services (e.g., arrangements, staffing, coordination)
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Transportation of the deceased
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Embalming or other preparation
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Memorial or viewing services
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Any additional personal arrangements or upgrades
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs does NOT pay for funeral home or related services. These costs must be paid directly to the service providers.
Local Cemetery Options
Many local cemeteries also offer designated sections for veterans and may provide reduced or alternative fee structures.