FUNERAL HOMES

Funeral Homes

To assure a successful program, the cooperation of funeral home directors is required. A letter should be sent to each funeral home notifying them of the program and stating that a MCL member will visit and explain the details. Funeral home directors should be encouraged to notify the designated MCL member as soon as he is aware of a fallen Marine. The "presenter" needs as much time as possible to recruit assistants. The funeral home director can help you in many ways. They can identify the next of kin, inform and prepare the family for the presentation, and point out any unusual circumstances or conditions. Remember we are entering his business. He can and will help if he understands the program and feels he is part of it.

Certificate

A recommended example of certificate format and wording is on page 15. When you receive the blank certificates (page 12), print signature space in the bottom right corner (page 13). Have all certificates signed by Detachment Officials (page 14). Now you are prepared to print certificates when notified of a fallen Marine. Be sure the signatures are in the proper place on the certificate. Once the print program has been set up on your computer and a certificate printed, it will be necessary, thereafter, to change the name and date only. Place the computer mouse arrow on the fallen Marine's name. Press the left button and highlight name. Do not delete the highlighted name. Type fallen Marine's name in highlighted area. Do the same for date and type in date of presentation. It is recommended that you print on blank paper and compare to blank certificate. Be sure all printing is in proper place and the name and date is correct before printing. If a diskette or compact disc is included, the printing section of the program should be copied to your computer hard drive.

"Fallen Marine" Presentation Supplies

1. Marine Corps League sympathy card. (To be mailed to next of kin as soon as address is obtained from funeral home)
2. Marine Corps League Certificate with Marine Corps League emblem on front.
3. Red certificate holder with Marine Corps League emblem on front or picture frame.
4. Gold pendant with ribbon, globe and anchor (for ladies)
5. Gold globe and anchor Marine Corps collar emblem. (for men)

It takes 10 days to two weeks to receive supplies after ordering. A 15 to 30 day, on hand supply, is recommended.

If circumstances dictate, the League may choose to present a pendant or globe and anchor to more than one member of the family. If the surviving spouse is very young and the Fallen Marine's mother is present, you may wish to present a pendant to the mother also-- or if the Marine was on active duty at the time of his/her death or a member of the Marine Corps League, you may wish to make more than one presentation.