Writing Obituaries That Highlight Veterans’ Achievements

Obituaries serve a powerful role in preserving legacies, but when honoring a veteran, they carry an even deeper responsibility. Military service is more than a career; it reflects dedication, sacrifice, and national pride. For families seeking cremation services in Jordan, MN, writing an obituary that respectfully highlights a veteran’s achievements can offer profound healing while ensuring the legacy lives on. 

Honoring veterans through thoughtful words requires more than listing ranks and medals. It demands compassion, accuracy, and an understanding of the veteran’s unique story. This guide walks through the essential elements of crafting a meaningful obituary for a loved one who served, ensuring that their life, service, and spirit are honored with grace. 

The Purpose of a Veteran's Obituary 

An obituary is more than a public notice of passing. For veterans, it becomes a record of honor, an opportunity to thank them for their service and educate others about the sacrifices they made. 

Key goals of a veteran’s obituary include: 

• Recognizing military achievements and ranks with dignity 
• Providing a narrative that connects military life with personal life 
• Reflecting the veteran's values, family ties, and post-service legacy 
• Guiding community members on how to pay tribute 

Families often find comfort in knowing their loved one’s service is remembered and appreciated by others. A well-written obituary offers comfort. 

Starting With the Essentials 

Like all obituaries, begin with the basics: 

• Full name, including any titles or military honors (e.g., Sergeant, U.S. Army Retired) 
• Age, date of death, and city of residence 
• Place of birth and upbringing 
• Key family members (spouse, children, siblings, grandchildren) 

When mentioning service, include: 

• Branch of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard) 
• Dates or duration of service 
• Conflict(s) served in, such as Vietnam, Desert Storm, or Operation Iraqi Freedom 
• Rank at retirement or discharge 
• Any notable units, posts, or deployments 

Avoid overloading the obituary with acronyms or technical details. Focus instead on clear, respectful language that reflects both the achievement and the person behind the uniform. 

Highlighting Achievements with Heart 

Beyond listing ranks and medals, the true depth of a veteran's life comes from storytelling. Reflect on moments that capture who they were in and out of uniform. Consider the following prompts: 

• What values did their military service instill, discipline, leadership, and resilience? 
• Were they involved in veterans’ organizations like the VFW or American Legion? 
• Did their service influence their career or family life? 
• What causes or beliefs did they champion in civilian life? 
• How did they give back to the community after their service? 

These elements give readers a fuller picture of the veteran’s legacy and often become the parts most cherished by family and friends. 

Including Honors with Respect 

Medals and citations hold deep significance and should be included with reverence. Common military awards mentioned in obituaries include: 

• Purple Heart 
• Bronze Star 
• Silver Star 
• Medal of Honor 
• Combat Infantryman Badge 
• Good Conduct Medal 
• National Defense Service Medal 

If the full list is extensive, consider highlighting a few of the most meaningful. Always verify the spelling and official names of medals for accuracy. For example, “awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service in Vietnam.” 

Capturing Life Beyond the Uniform 

While military service is central, veterans also leave behind personal legacies filled with relationships, hobbies, and triumphs. A balanced obituary weaves their military background with other life chapters. 

Include: 

• Marriage and family life 
• Careers post-military 
• Favorite pastimes, fishing, woodworking, mentoring 
• Faith or spiritual involvement 
• Community service or volunteer work 

These details reflect the humanity of the individual, helping others relate to and celebrate their full life. 

Understanding Documents Involved in End-of-Life Planning 

Before writing, ensure you have access to key records. Understanding Documents Involved in End of Life Planning can make this process smoother and more accurate. For veterans, important documents include: 

• DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) 
• Military ID or retiree card 
• Award and decoration certificates 
• VA benefits documentation 

These documents confirm service dates, ranks, and honors, ensuring the obituary is respectful and factually correct. Funeral directors who specialize in serving veterans can help guide families through this documentation, especially when arranging honors like a flag presentation or military burial. 

Noting Military Honors in the Service Announcement 

If the obituary includes funeral or memorial service details, be sure to mention any military elements, such as: 

• Honor Guard participation 
• Flag presentation 
• Taps performance 
• Burial at a national cemetery 
• Uniformed service members in attendance 

This information helps the community understand the depth of the tribute and prepare accordingly, especially veterans who may wish to attend or participate in support. 

Sample Veteran Obituary Excerpt 

John D. Thompson, age 78, of Jordan, MN, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 3, 2025. Born in St. Paul, John proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1973, including two deployments in Vietnam aboard the USS Enterprise. He was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service and retired as a Petty Officer First Class. 

Following his service, John returned to Minnesota and built a successful 30-year career in carpentry. He was a proud member of the American Legion and dedicated countless hours to mentoring young veterans adjusting to civilian life. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John will be remembered for his sense of humor, his devotion to family, and his unwavering loyalty to his fellow service members. 

This approach provides a well-rounded, respectful, and emotional tribute that reflects the life and service of the individual. 

Coordinating With Cremation Services in Jordan, MN 

Veteran families choosing cremation services in Jordan, MN often seek meaningful, cost-effective ways to honor their loved one. Funeral directors experienced in veteran services can assist with: 

• Writing or editing the obituary 
• Filing VA paperwork 
• Coordinating military honors for services 
• Recommending local or national veteran organizations for donations 
• Providing keepsakes such as folded flags or commemorative urns 

Including this support in the planning process ensures that the obituary and the entire service reflect the significance of the veteran’s contributions. 

Final Thoughts: Writing With Gratitude and Grace 

An obituary for a veteran is more than a summary; it is a salute. It acknowledges not only how life was lived but how it served others. When written with intention and respect, the obituary becomes a cherished document of remembrance. 

Let each sentence carry gratitude. Let every honor be named with dignity. Let every memory be shared with warmth. In doing so, the legacy of service and love continues. 

For guidance in honoring your veteran loved one through thoughtful tributes and personalized arrangements, visit the website of Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation. Their team proudly serves military families with compassion, expertise, and heartfelt care.