Do we, as Masons for the ability to petition the VA to include the S&C to the list of approved religious markers on VA head stones? Are their any Brothers in elected office who can help push this through? I am currently approved for a marker but to be buried in a VA plot as I do not have the money for a private plot. Even in a private plot, I could only have a Masonic marker at the foot of my plot and that too would add to the cost of the plot.
Any Brother have any info on how to proceed?
If you’d really like to pursue this:
If you are applying for a headstone or marker and the emblem you desire is not currently available, please see information below:
Who Can Request a New Emblem of Belief?
CFR 38.632 rule states that the following individuals may request a new emblem of belief for inscription on a headstone or marker: the decedent's next-of-kin (NOK), a person authorized in writing by the NOK, or a personal representative authorized in writing by the decedent.
Instructions for Requesting an Emblem not Available for Inscription
To submit a request for an emblem of belief not available for inscription, the requestor must:
Establish that there is an immediate need for a Government headstone/marker to be furnished for a deceased eligible individual (i.e., submission of VA-Form 40-1330, for Standard Government Headstone or Marker, verification from national or state Veterans' cemetery officials).
Certify that the proposed new emblem of belief represents the decedent's religious affiliation or sincerely held religious belief system, or a sincerely held belief system that was functionally equivalent to a religious belief system in the life of the decedent.
Submit a three-inch diameter digitized black and white representation of the requested emblem that is free of copyright or trademark restrictions or authorized by the owner for inscription on Government-furnished headstones and markers and can be reproduced in a production-line environment in stone or bronze without loss of graphic quality.
Submit all information to the following address:
Memorial Products Service (41B)
Department of Veterans Affairs
5109 Russell Road
Quantico, VA 22134-3903