Did you know that the Department of Veterans Affairs offers a thoughtful Presidential Memorial Certificate program to memorialize your beloved deceased veteran? The certificate is an elegant presentation, personalized in calligraphy lettering with the name of the veteran. It includes a gold foil embossed seal of the Great Seal of the United States, and is signed by the President. This program was initiated by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, and has been continued by all subsequent Presidents.
The Presidential Memorial Certificate program is open to the families of honorably discharged, deceased veterans from all branches of the United States Military. Eligible recipients include the next of kin and loved ones of honorably discharged deceased veterans. More than one certificate may be requested by the family, and there is no cost.
Family members may apply for the Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) at any Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regional office or by U.S. Mail or fax. To request the PMC, please complete the form at this link, or send a letter requesting a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Be sure to enclose a copy of the veteran's discharge and death certificate to verify eligibility (do not send originals, and copies will not be returned.) You should include the veteran’s name, as well as your full name, mailing address, and a telephone number with area code.
Forms may be faxed to: 1 (800) 455-7143
Or sent via mail to this address: Presidential Memorial Certificates (41A1C), National Cemetery Administration, 5109 Russell Road Quantico, VA 22134-3903
If you wish to telephone for further information, call (202) 565-4964.
For more information, visit the VA Affairs site.
You may be interested in framing your Presidential Memorial Certificate in a frame for your loved one’s branch of service, or you may want to create your own custom frame to coordinate with your home or office. The PMC is a vertical document printed on cream paper that measures 11” X 8.5” with an actual printed area of 9” X 6.”
