Veteran Sea Burial

It is possible to have the navy perform a sea burial for the veteran. This is available for both casket-ed remains as well as cremains (ashes).  This service is performed when the ship is on active duty and family are not present.

It is well after the event that the family is notified by the commanding office of the ship that the scattering has taken place. It is at this time they are provided details such as date, time longitude and latitude of the event. 

Veteran Sea Burial - American Flag with Military Ship in background

In addition, the family will also likely miss the presentation of military honors. This is a very import part of a funeral service for a veteran. The flag is folded, taps is played and the folded flag is presented to the next of kin. The military honors are preformed by representatives of the branch of the service in which the veteran served.

Military to Perform Veteran Sea Burial

If your family is planning to use the military option for the veteran sea burial, you should contact the Navy after the death of your loved one. There will need to be coordination with a funeral home to make arrangements. Cremains should be placed in a biodegradable container. Casket-ed remains will need to be embalmed as the time frame for the sea burial many not be in the near future. For detailed information on this see out funeral home page on full body sea burial.

Because our parent company provides full mortuary services though Funerals Your Way (FD: 2188) – a fully licensed California funeral home – we will be able to assist you with these.

FAQ – Specifically for Military Sea Burial

Planning a military burial at sea comes with unique traditions, requirements, and options that can feel unfamiliar to many families. From understanding eligibility and timelines to knowing what to expect during a Navy ceremony, it’s important to have clear and accurate information. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions to help you navigate the process with confidence, honor your loved one’s service, and make informed decisions every step of the way.

Can multiple family members’ remains be scattered together with military services at sea?

The military (Navy) does allow multiple sets of cremated remains (cremains) to be scattered during the same ceremony, If fact, hundreds set of cremains will be scattered at the same time as a matter of course.. This can be a meaningful way to honor spouses or family members together, especially when it holds special significance, such as shared military service. One of our funeral directors gets requested at the navy facility to assist with cremains and there are literally several hundred cremains waiting to be scattered.

How far offshore does the Navy go for burials?

Navy sea burials take place while the ship is on active duty, typically well offshore from a few dozen to hundreds of miles. Exact locations vary depending on the ship’s operational schedule. After the ceremony, families are sent the date, time, and the exact coordinates (latitude and longitude) where the burial took place.

Can we request photos or videos of the military ceremony?

The Navy does not provide photos or videos because the ceremony occurs while the ship is on official duty, and families are not present. However, after the burial, the family receives a letter from the commanding officer with the date, time, and location of the ceremony. If families want to witness or record a sea scattering, a private charter service allows full participation, photography, and even video tributes while still honoring military traditions.

How do we request a military burial at sea through the Navy?

Military burials at sea are arranged through the Department of the Navy’s Mortuary Affairs Office. Families or funeral directors should contact the Navy after the death occurs. The funeral home will help gather the necessary documents, such as the veteran’s DD-214 discharge papers, proof of honorable service, and the death certificate. The Navy then coordinates the ceremony aboard an active-duty ship.

What paperwork or documentation is required for a veteran’s burial at sea?

Typically, the family or funeral home will need:

    • A copy of the veteran’s DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). This will indicate if the discharge was honorable or not
    • Death certificate and cremation certificate (if cremains are being buried)
    • Completed Request for Burial at Sea form provided by the Navy

Is there a cost for the military to perform a burial at sea?

The U.S. Navy provides burial at sea at no cost to eligible veterans and their families. However, families are responsible for funeral home charges, transportation to the appropriate Navy facility, and preparation of remains (such as cremation or embalming for casket burials).

Can the family attend the military burial at sea ceremony?

Family members cannot be present on the ship during a Navy-performed burial at sea because it is conducted while the vessel is on active duty. This is really a big reason to perform the sea burial using a private service such as California Sea Burial. After the ceremony, the Navy mails the family a letter with the date, time, and coordinates of the burial so they know exactly when and where it took place.

How long after passing does the military typically schedule the burial at sea?

Timing can vary depending on the ship’s deployment schedule and operational commitments. Although some of the documentation I have seen say several weeks, in reality it is usually many many months. We assisted the military with a full casket burial and we had to hold the deceased – I believe 8 months. Families are always notified once the ceremony is completed.

It is so much better to have the family on the yacht for the burial at sea. It is in their best interests to participate in the event. The purpose of a funeral service to facilitate closure and healing and there is no better place than the ocean. It is a magical place and a scattering at sea is very special – but  only if you are there!