Since 1909, the Last Post Fund has been dedicated to ensuring that every Canadian veteran receives a dignified burial, reflecting the honor and respect they deserve for their service. Operating as a non-profit organization, the Fund administers two primary programs: the Funeral and Burial Program and the Unmarked Grave Program.
Funeral and Burial Program
In partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), the Last Post Fund oversees the Funeral and Burial Program, which provides financial assistance for funeral and burial services to eligible veterans. According to the Last Post Fund, a veteran is defined as any former member of the Canadian Armed Forces who successfully underwent basic training and was honorably discharged.
Eligibility for this program is determined through two avenues:
Matter of Right: If a VAC medical authority determines that the cause of death is related to a condition for which VAC provided a disability benefit, assistance is granted without means testing.
Means Testing: In cases where the death is not service-related, a financial assessment is conducted to determine eligibility based on the veteran’s estate and financial situation.
Unmarked Grave Program
The Unmarked Grave Program aims to provide permanent military markers for eligible veterans who have been laid to rest in unmarked graves for at least five years. This initiative ensures that veterans receive proper recognition for their service, even posthumously.
Glenn Miller, President of the Alberta and Northwest Territories branch of the Last Post Fund, emphasizes the importance of these programs. “Veterans, like any Canadian, are responsible for their own estate planning. However, sometimes circumstances make it challenging for families to afford funeral expenses. This is why we exist—to honor a veteran loved one when financial constraints are present,” he explains.
Historical Context
The inception of the Last Post Fund dates back to the early 20th century. Arthur Hair, a veteran of the Boer War, encountered an impoverished Crimean War veteran in a Montreal hospital who lacked the means for a proper burial. Moved by this situation, Hair rallied fellow veterans to contribute funds for the burial, leading to the establishment of the Last Post Fund. Recognizing the necessity of such a service, the federal government later adopted the Fund to oversee and finance dignified burials for veterans.
Community Involvement and Volunteer Efforts
The Unmarked Grave Program requires diligent efforts to identify veterans in need of grave markers. Miller and his team of volunteers actively research and verify unmarked graves, ensuring that each veteran receives appropriate recognition. “Any veteran who lies in an unmarked grave for more than five years is eligible for a military marker to honor their service,” Miller notes.
Family members aware of unmarked veteran graves are encouraged to contact the Last Post Fund. “If you know of a relative or any veteran in an unmarked grave, reach out to us. We don’t judge the circumstances; our goal is to honor their service,” Miller asserts.
Upon installation of a new marker, the organization often holds a graveside ceremony to pay tribute to the veteran’s service. Miller also highlights the ongoing need for volunteers to assist in identifying unmarked graves, verifying military service records, and coordinating with families to facilitate the installation of new markers.
“We want to ensure we get it right. Once the stone is installed, it is maintained by the Government of Canada in perpetuity,” Miller adds.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in applying for assistance or volunteering with the Last Post Fund, information is available on their official website or by calling their toll-free number. “Our mission is to honor and protect in death those who have protected their country in life,” Miller concludes.
For more information, visit www.lastpostfund.ca or call 1-800-465-7113.
