Honoring Our Nation’s Heroes: Veteran Services at Westbrock Funeral Home

Kari Carter • January 29, 2025

At Westbrock Funeral Home, we deeply respect and honor the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our country. We understand the importance of providing dignified and honorable funeral services for veterans and their families. Our dedicated staff is here to guide families through the veteran burial benefits process, ensuring that every eligible service member receives the recognition they deserve.


Understanding VA Burial Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides burial benefits to assist service members, veterans, and their families in planning and covering the costs of funeral and memorial services. These benefits include:

ο»Ώ

βœ… Burial in a VA National Cemetery (for eligible veterans and their dependents)
βœ…
A government-provided headstone, marker, or medallion
βœ…
A burial flag to honor the deceased veteran
βœ…
A Presidential Memorial Certificate
βœ…
Military funeral honors, including the playing of "Taps" and flag presentation

These honors serve as a final tribute to those who dedicated their lives to protecting our nation.


Who Qualifies for VA Burial Benefits?

Veterans, service members, and certain family members may be eligible for burial benefits if they meet any of the following requirements:


  • Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable or general discharge
  • Passed away while on active duty, in training, or inactive duty training
  • A veteran’s spouse or minor child (even if the veteran passed away first)
  • In some cases, an unmarried adult dependent child of a veteran

If you are unsure about eligibility, our team at Westbrock Funeral Home is here to help navigate the application process.


Military Funeral Honors & Committal Services

Military funeral honors are a powerful way to pay tribute to a veteran’s service. These honors typically include:


πŸŽ–οΈ The ceremonial folding and presentation of the U.S. flag to the family
πŸŽ–οΈ The playing of
"Taps"
πŸŽ–οΈ A rifle detail and color guard (if available)

These honors recognize the dedication and patriotism of our nation’s heroes, providing a meaningful farewell for the veteran and their loved ones.


Applying for Veterans Burial Benefits

Families must apply for VA burial benefits within two years of the veteran’s burial or cremation. There is no time limit for applying for a service-connected burial allowance. To start the process, you can:


πŸ“Œ Apply online: VA Burial Benefits Application
πŸ“Œ
Download and submit VA Form 21P-530 by mail


Additionally, families seeking a VA headstone or marker for unmarked graves can complete VA Form 10-1330 and send it to:

Department of Veterans Affairs
5109 Russell Road
Quantico, VA 22134-3909

For full details on veterans' burial benefits, visit the VA’s official website: VA Burials and Memorials


Why Choose Westbrock Funeral Home for Veteran Services?

At Westbrock Funeral Home, we are committed to ensuring that veterans and their families receive the highest level of care and support. Our experienced staff will assist with:


βœ… Completing and submitting VA forms for burial benefits
βœ… Coordinating with the National Cemetery Administration
βœ… Arranging military funeral honors and flag presentations
βœ… Providing compassionate guidance throughout the planning process

Losing a loved one is never easy, but ensuring they receive the honor, dignity, and respect they deserve is our top priority.


Contact Us Today

If you have any questions about veteran funeral services, eligibility for burial benefits, or how to plan a meaningful tribute, please reach out to us.


πŸ“ Westbrock Funeral Home – Serving families in Dayton, Kettering, and surrounding areas
πŸ“ž
Call us today: 937-253-6161


Let us help you honor your loved one’s legacy with the dignity they deserve. πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ


Meet The Team

Bryan & Diane Westbrock: Continuing the legacy of quality care, Bryan and Diane bring years of experience and a heartfelt commitment to serving families in their community.


Mark & Heather Westbrock and daughter Maria: As part of the next generation of Westbrocks, Mark and Heather, along with their daughter Maria, uphold the family’s long-standing tradition of compassionate service.


Kari & Bruce Daniel: Bringing warmth and professionalism to every interaction, Kari and Bruce are dedicated to ensuring every family feels supported and cared for.


Honoring the Past, Serving the Present:

Westbrock Funeral Home is proud of its history and the families who make it all possible. Our dedicated staff and their connection to the local community are what set us apart. We invite you to stop by one of our locations in Dayton or Kettering to meet our team and discover how we can help you honor your loved ones with dignity and care.


By Kari Carter January 7, 2025
For over a century, Westbrock Funeral Home has been a cornerstone of compassionate service in Dayton, Ohio . Established in 1892 by Ben Westbrock , the funeral home has grown from a modest establishment on Wayne Avenue to a trusted name for families seeking meaningful ways to honor their loved ones. Today, the third and fourth generations of the Westbrock family proudly continue this legacy, offering personalized services rooted in care, respect, and personal connection. Our Legacy: A Rich History of Service Westbrock Funeral Home is more than just a funeral home; it is a piece of Dayton’s history . Founded by Ben Westbrock, who trained as an undertaker following the Civil War , the business began at the corner of Wayne Avenue and Pearl Street in 1892. Ten years later, Ben purchased his former employer’s establishment, solidifying his place in the community. In 1923, Ben acquired an elegant 1865 Italianate/Second Empire-style residence, originally built by Samuel D. Edgar as a wedding gift for his daughter. This historic home, perched atop a hill at 1712 Wayne Avenue, became the first modern funeral home in Dayton and remains a cherished landmark. In 1988, it was honored with placement on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service. In 1992, Westbrock Funeral Home expanded with a second location in Kettering, extending its reach to serve even more families. With over 130 years of tradition, Westbrock Funeral Home stands as Dayton’s first funeral home, deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Traditional Funeral Services Designed for You At Westbrock Funeral Home, we understand the importance of providing a personalized and meaningful farewell. Our traditional services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each family, ensuring every detail reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. Visitation A visitation provides a time for family and friends to come together, share memories, and find comfort in one another’s presence. Our dedicated team works closely with families to personalize these gatherings, incorporating tribute videos, photographs, and mementos that capture the essence of your loved one’s life. This reflective time fosters healing and connection. Funeral Service Funeral services can be held at our historic chapel, a church, or any venue that is meaningful to your family. Whether your preferences include religious traditions, secular ceremonies, or celebrations of life, we collaborate with you to create a service that honors your loved one’s journey. For those seeking a non-religious service, our experienced life celebrants can craft and lead a meaningful tribute. Graveside Service A graveside or committal service offers an intimate setting for final goodbyes. These ceremonies can be part of a larger service or a private farewell, tailored to your wishes. At Westbrock Funeral Home, we are dedicated to ensuring this moment is respectful, heartfelt, and aligned with your family's traditions. A Legacy of Compassionate Care With two locations in Dayton and Kettering, Westbrock Funeral Home remains committed to serving families with dignity, care, and compassion. As a family-owned and operated business for four generations, we take pride in providing personalized attention during life's most challenging moments. The heritage of Westbrock Funeral Home reflects our dedication to the families we serve. From our historic Wayne Avenue location to our modern facility in Kettering, every service is designed to provide a comforting and meaningful experience. For more information about our traditional funeral services or to discuss how we can help honor your loved one’s memory, please visit Westbrock Funeral Home or contact us directly. Let us guide you in creating a tribute that celebrates a life well-lived.
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