Honoring our veterans through military obituaries is an important way to pay tribute to their sacrifices and service. These special individuals have given so much for our country, and when it comes time to say goodbye, we want their obituary to reflect their courage, achievements, and the love they shared with those closest to them. Writing a military obituary may seem like a difficult task, but it can be a meaningful way to celebrate their life and legacy.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through examples of military obituaries and share tips on how to write a respectful, heartfelt tribute. Whether you are a family member, friend, or fellow veteran, this guide will help you create an obituary that honors the person’s unique journey.
1. What Is a Military Obituary?
A military obituary is an announcement that recognizes the life and service of a veteran. These obituaries often include details about their military career, awards, and accomplishments, alongside personal information that reflects their character and family life. Unlike a standard obituary, military obituaries may highlight the specific branch of service, battles fought, or any honors received, such as medals and commendations.
2. Why Are Military Obituaries Important?
Military obituaries serve as a lasting tribute to those who dedicated their lives to serving our country. These obituaries help share the veteran’s story, keeping their legacy alive for future generations. By including details about their service, military obituaries acknowledge the selfless acts of bravery and sacrifice that veterans made to protect the freedoms we hold dear.
3. Military Obituary Examples
Let’s explore some military obituary examples to inspire you. Here are a few sample elements you may wish to include when writing an obituary for a veteran:
- Full Name and Rank: Start by including the full name of the deceased and their rank in the military.
- Branch of Service: Specify which branch of the military they served in, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines.
- Dates of Service: Mention the years of service, from enlistment to discharge or retirement.
- Key Achievements: Highlight significant milestones, like deployments, commendations, or medals.
- Personal Information: Include a brief overview of their life outside the military – their family, hobbies, and passions.
- Survivors: List surviving family members, such as spouse, children, and siblings.
Example 1:
“John W. Smith, age 72, of Springfield, passed away on November 10th, 2024. A proud veteran of the United States Army, John served with distinction in Vietnam and was awarded the Bronze Star. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary, and their three children.”
Example 2:
“Captain Lisa A. Roberts, 56, of Seattle, Washington, died on December 1st, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Captain Roberts served for 30 years in the U.S. Navy, earning numerous medals, including the Navy Cross. She is survived by her brother, two children, and grandchildren.”
4. Tips for Writing a Military Obituary
Writing a military obituary requires sensitivity and respect. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure that the tribute is heartfelt and fitting:
- Focus on Their Service: While the obituary should include personal details, highlight their military achievements to reflect their pride in serving.
- Use Respectful Language: Avoid overly casual language and be mindful of the tone, making sure the tribute is both personal and dignified.
- Include the Right Details: Ensure the military service details, like rank, awards, and dates, are correct. This shows respect for the individual’s service.
- Consider the Family’s Wishes: Discuss with the family what details they want to include and how they would like the veteran’s story to be told.
5. Military Obituary Writing Services
If writing a military obituary feels overwhelming, consider reaching out to professional obituary writers or funeral homes that specialize in military services. These experts can guide you through the process and ensure the obituary properly honors the veteran’s life and service.
Honoring the Service and Sacrifice of Veterans
Writing a military obituary is a thoughtful way to honor the veterans in our lives. It provides a space to celebrate their bravery and contributions, both in their military careers and as individuals. Whether you’re crafting a tribute yourself or seeking help from a professional, your effort to honor their memory is a beautiful gesture of gratitude and respect.
