Six Feet Under the Lone Star State: Who Can Actually Be Buried at Fort Sam Houston?
So, you're thinking about kicking the bucket and want to know if you can book a prime spot at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery? Well, hold your horses, or should I say, hold your urn? Let's clear up this grave situation.
Who's Eligible for a Dirt Nap at Fort Sam Houston?
First off, let's talk about the VIPs. We're talking about veterans, of course. If you've served your country, even for a hot minute, you're golden. You can trade in your dog tags for a plot. But wait, there's more! Spouses and dependent children of veterans can also join the party underground. Just make sure you've got the paperwork in order.
Not Your Average Neighborhood Cemetery
Now, Fort Sam Houston isn't your average, run-of-the-mill graveyard. It's got a storied past, and I'm not talking about ghost stories. This place is home to over 150,000 veterans and their families. It's like a tiny city of the dead, but with better company. You'll be rubbing shoulders (or, well, not really) with some serious military history.
Who's Not Eligible?
Let's get real for a second. Not everyone gets a VIP pass to this hallowed ground. Sorry to break it to you, but civilians who haven't served in the military are out of luck. And even if you're related to a veteran, it doesn't automatically guarantee you a spot. So, don't start planning your funeral just yet.
How to Become a Permanent Resident of Fort Sam Houston
Alright, so you're convinced you want to spend eternity surrounded by heroes. Here's the lowdown on how to make it happen:
- How to qualify for burial: Serve your country, marry a veteran, or be a dependent child of a veteran. It's not rocket science, but it's definitely not a free pass.
- How to choose a plot: Once you're eligible, you can start picking out your dream plot. Do you want a sunny spot or a shady corner? Maybe you prefer a view of the chapel. The possibilities are endless (or at least, as endless as the cemetery).
- How to plan your funeral: This is the fun part! You can choose your casket, your headstone, and even your funeral music. Just remember, keep it respectful. You're surrounded by heroes, after all.
- How to prepare your paperwork: You'll need to gather all the necessary documents to prove your eligibility. It's a bit of a paperwork nightmare, but it's worth it in the end.
- How to make peace with your mortality: Let's face it, planning your own funeral can be a bit morbid. But it's also a way to show your loved ones how much you care. So, don't be afraid to get a little sentimental.
So, there you have it. Becoming a permanent resident of Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery isn't as easy as it sounds. But if you're lucky enough to qualify, you'll be in good company. Just remember, living life to the fullest is way more fun than planning your death. But hey, it's always good to be prepared!
