August 23, 2016
America's Duty to Those Who Gave the Last Full Measure of Devotion
By Rebecca Burgess
Over one hundred and fifty years after President Lincoln signed into law the initial legislation setting aside national cemeteries, most veterans today will not be able to be buried in these dedicated grounds.
Originally intended “for the soldiers who shall die in the service of the country,” Congress has successively broadened its criteria for national internment to include the majority of all veterans.
Currently, all armed forces and veterans who have met minimum active service duty requirements, and who have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, are eligible for this right. Also eligible are qualified members of the Reserve components, the National Guard, and Reserve Officers Training Corps.
http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2016/08/23/americas_duty_to_those_who_gave_the_last_full_measure_of_devotion_109739.html
