FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
More than 75 people, including retirees, funeral home directors, Service members and families, attended an informational Military Funeral Honors Conference at Fort Eustis Aug. 29.
Diane Hamlette, Fort Eustis Memorial Affairs coordinator, said the event provided information about available benefits to those that qualify.
"It's very important this information about entitlements is shared because there are people paying for benefits they could get for free," said Hamlette.
One such benefit for veterans includes free burial.
"Most people don't know that as a veteran you can be buried free [in national cemeteries] and spouses can be buried for $300," Hamlette said.
Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. John "Ski" Przybylski, a veteran who attended the conference called the presentation "fantastic."
"I wish I had known about it earlier," Przybylski said. "It applies to everyone who has ever served."
Przybylski said anyone that is able to attend a future conference should do so, as it is full of great information and does not take much of your time.
Hamlette said she hopes conference attendees gained a better understanding of their benefits and learned who to contact if they have any questions.
"We want to make sure everyone knows we are here for them when they need us," Hamlette said.
For more information, contact the Fort Eustis Casualty Assistance Office at 878-1118.