Headstones, grave markers for veterans can be replaced

YOUNGSTOWN

Grave headstones and markers for veterans previously furnished by the federal government may be replaced at government expense if they are badly deteriorated, illegible, stolen or vandalized.

The government also may replace new or modern headstones or markers if the inscription is incorrect, if it was damaged during shipping or if the material or workmanship does not meet contract specifications, according to Department of Veterans Affairs.

Historic headstones, however — those greater than 50 years of age — will not be replaced to correct inscription inaccuracies based on modern research.

Requests for replacement of historic headstones will be honored only when inscriptions are worn to the point that they no longer can be read or if the headstone is otherwise damaged beyond repair.

If a government headstone or marker in a private cemetery is damaged by cemetery personnel, the cemetery should pay all replacement costs, said Barry E. Landgraver, executive director/county veterans-service officer of the Mahoning County Veterans Service Commission.

For guidance on obtaining a replacement headstone or marker, call the commission at 330-740-2450 or the Memorial Programs Service Applicant Assistance Unit between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday toll-free at 800-697-6947.