Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is eligible for the caisson ceremony?
A. Any person authorized to be interred at a National (VA) or military cemetery. This includes the veteran with an Honorable or General Discharge and any dependent family members of that veteran.
Q. Who is entitled to the Caparison Horse?
A. Any person who has held a command position, whether or not in combat.
Q. How do I arrange a caisson ceremony?
A. Arrangement is made through the funeral home or by directly contacting Hawk's Flight Services.
Q. What documents do I need?
A. A copy of the veteran's discharge (DD Form 214) or other accepted documents. For the caparisoned horse, proof of command position needs to be furnished; for some veterans, rank alone is sufficient proof, i.e., Colonel (Navy Captain), and above.
Q. Where do I get a copy of the veteran's DD Form 214?
A. The Department of Veteran's Affairs (http://www.va.gov or 1-800-827-1000).
Q. How is the honor guard arranged?
A. The honor Guard will be arranged by the funeral home in coordination with Hawk's Flight Services.
Q. Are any of the costs reimbursed by the U.S. Government?
A. Please review the document found at http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/benefits/factsheets/burials/Burialeg_0508.doc
