Getting Dad's Veteran Marker Ready the Morning of His Military Honors

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I remember the the morning like it was yesterday. Cold, damp, and way too quiet. My buddy Dave called me at 5:30 AM — his dad's funeral was at 10, and the headstone was still dirty from winter. He was panicking. I grabbed my bucket, a jug of D/2, some soft rags, and drove straight to the cemetary. We scrubbed that marker in the gray dawn light, both of us shivering and half-awake. By the time the honor guard showed up, that granite was gleaming. Dave shook my hand and didn't say a word. That's when I knew: getting a veteran's marker clean before honors isn't just about appearances. It's about respect.

So if you're in that same boat — you've got a burial coming up, maybe a few hours to spare, and you want to make sure Dad's marker looks right for the ceremony — I've got you. This is what I've learned from doing it myself, more times than I can count. Let's get that stone ready.

Start With the Right Stuff — What You'll Actually Need

I always spray a light coat of D/2 on the stone after the ceremony if the family is okay with it. It's a maintainance step. Keeps biological growth away for months. But don't do it if the stone is hot from the sun — it'll dry too fast and leave streaks.

For ongoing care, clean the marker every 6-12 months. Spring and fall are good. Use the same D/2 routine. It's gentle enough for regular use. I've been cleaning my dad's marker for 8 years now and it still looks new.

Also, if you're adopting a grave (like I do), keep a log. I write the date I cleaned it in a little notebook. Helps me remember when it's due again. Sounds silly, but it works.

Final thought: don't stress about perfection. The marker is a symbol. The real honor is showing up. Your dad knows that. The dirt will come back eventually. But for that one morning, it's clean, it's right, and that's what matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use Windex or glass cleaner on a veteran headstone?

A: Please don't. Glass cleaners have ammonia and other chemicals that can strip the sealant off polished granite or etch marble. Stick with D/2 or a mild pH-neutral soap. It's safer and works better long-term.

Q: How long does D/2 take to work on heavy moss or lichen?

A: For thick growth, spray it on, let it sit 15-20 minutes, then wipe. You might need a second application. I've had spots that took two rounds, but it always comes off without scrubbing hard. Don't rush it.

Q: Is it okay to clean the marker the night before the funeral instead of the morning?

A: Sure, but morning is safer. Overnight dew can redeposit dirt or cause water spots. If you clean at night, dry the stone completely and cover it with a clean tarp. I prefer the morning — less chance of something messing it up.

Q: What if the marker is made of marble instead of granite?

A: Marble is softer and more porous. Same rules apply — no acids, no abrasives. Use D/2 with a very soft cloth. Marble stains easier, so rinse thoroughly. And never use a wire brush. It'll leave scratches you can't fix.

Q: Should I polish the headstone after cleaning?

A: No. Polishing compounds are usually abrasive and can damage the surface. Granite has a natural shine, and marble has a patina. Just cleaning is enough. If you want it to look brighter, a dry microfiber cloth buff is fine. Skip the wax or polish.