25 Miss. Code. R. 102-5.1 - Eligibility For Burial in the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery

A. Eligibility criteria for interment in the MVMC is the same as required for in term em in a national cemetery as provided by federal law (Title 38 U.S.C.) and rules and regulations applicable thereto, to the extent that these laws and regulations do not conflict with the laws of the State of Mississippi.

B. Generally, burial in the MVMC is open to all members of the Armed Forces and Veterans who have met minimum service duty requirements and have been discharged under honorable conditions. Their lawfully married spouse, widow or widower, minor children, and under certain conditions, unmarried adult children arc also eligible for burial. Eligible spouses may be buried, even if they predecease the veteran. Members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who die while on active duty or while performing training duty, or who have 20 years of service in reserve components of the Aimed Forces credible for retired pay, may also be eligible for burial.

C. Specific eligibility:

(1) Shall be determined by the cemetery staff in accordance with criteria set forth in federal law and as defined in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs regulation's), to the extent (hat these laws and regulations do not conflict with the laws of the State of Mississippi. The Cemetery Director shall he responsible for ensuring that burials arc conducted only for eligible veterans and/or spouses/dependents.

(2) In any case where Cemetery Director determines an individual is ineligible for burial, request must be immediately forwarded to the Executive Director for review and decision. The Executive Director shall retain authority for any disapproval determination.

(3) In any case where eligibility is denied; next of kin or responsible party /entity may appeal that decision to the Board.

Notes

25 Miss. Code. R. 102-5.1

Miss. Code Ann. § 35-1-41 (4) (Rev. 2024).

Amended 10/20/2024