Burial at Sea

This Ancient Tradition is Still Practiced Today

Burial at sea is not just an ancient tradition practiced by mariners of old; it is a means of final disposition of a casket or cremated remains. This benefit remains largely a mystery, but is still utilized by active-duty members, retirees and honorably discharged veterans of all U.S. military branches.

Burial at sea services are performed on Naval vessels

While deployed on official maneuvers, this most traditional ceremony takes place. Therefore, it is impossible for the family to be present. We do request the ceremony to be recorded on video and photographed.



After the ceremony, the family is notified by the commanding officer of the vessel, date, time, longitude and latitude of the committal service.

Deceased individuals eligible for this program are:

1. Members and retirees of the uniformed services
2. Veterans discharged under honorable conditions
3. U.S. civilian marine personnel of the Military Sealift Command
4. Dependents of members, retirees and veterans of the uniformed services