Get Burial At Sea Request Form

Initiating a burial at sea for a loved one After the death of the individual, the person authorized to direct disposition or the primary next of kin must contact the Navy and Marine Corps Mortuary Affairs Office at 866-787-0081 to request a packet (mailed or emailed) and to receive more information by phone and email.

To initiate a Burial At Sea for both cremated and intact remains, the enclosed Burial at Sea Request/Authorization Form must be completed and signed by the primary next of kin or other person legally responsible for arranging the final disposition of the cremains or remains.

A metal casket, as used by the United States Navy, should be considered. EPA recommends that: the casket should be banded with at least six durable stainless steel bands, chains or natural fiber ropes in order to ensure rapid and permanent sinking of the intact casket.

Ceremonial Procedure for at Sea Disposition The committal service is as follows: Station firing squad, casket bearers and bugler. Officer's call. Pass the word "All hands bury the dead" (the ships should be stopped, if practicable, and colors displayed at half-mast.

The MPRSA general permit authorizes burial at sea of non-cremated human remains at locations at least three nautical miles from land and in ocean waters at least 600 feet deep.

To initiate a Burial At Sea for both cremated and intact remains, the enclosed Burial at Sea Request/Authorization Form must be completed and signed by the primary next of kin or other person legally responsible for arranging the final disposition of the cremains or remains.

Coffin Requirements for Sea Burials The coffin should have 40-50 drilled holes in order for it to sink down.

Burial at Sea is a means of final disposition of remains that is performed on United States Navy vessels. The committal ceremony is performed while the ship is deployed. Therefore, family members are not allowed to be present.