Honoring Those Who Served: Supporting Veterans and Their Families
At Prout Funeral Home, we’ve always felt a deep sense of honor in serving the men and women who served our country. For our family, that respect runs generations deep — from our ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars to our first generation owner and funeral director, Mike Prout, who served in the trenches during World War I and our second generation owner and funeral director, Frank Prout, a medic in the Army Air Corps during World War II.
Service has always been a part of our family’s story, and it continues to shape how we care for others today. We understand firsthand the pride, sacrifice, and quiet strength that military families carry. That’s why helping veterans and their loved ones receive the recognition they deserve is one of the most meaningful parts of what we do.
A Community Tradition of Remembrance
Every year, our family joins neighbors, local officials, and veterans at the Verona Veterans Day Ceremony by the Doughboy Monument in the center of town. The familiar sound of Taps, the sight of flags waving in the crisp November air, and the stories shared among generations remind us that freedom isn’t free.
These community moments — standing shoulder to shoulder with families who have served — bring history to life. Each name spoken, each wreath laid, and each salute given connects us to those who came before and to those still serving today.
How We Help Families Honor Their Veterans
For many families, planning a veteran’s funeral or memorial is both a moment of pride and a moment of deep emotion. The process can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves benefits and military protocols — but that’s where we come in.
At Prout Funeral Home, our team helps guide families through every step of the process, including:
- Coordinating military honors with the appropriate branch of service
- Assisting with burial flag requests and completing VA burial benefit applications
- Arranging interment in a national or private cemetery
- Ensuring each ceremony — from the playing of Taps to the folding of the flag — is performed with precision and respect
We also pay close attention to the smallest details. For services with cremated remains, we carefully fold the flag before the presentation ceremony. For full burials or entombments, we iron and press the flag ahead of time so it looks as perfect as possible. These gestures may seem simple, but they symbolize our deep gratitude.
Understanding Military Honors
Eligible veterans may receive military funeral honors at no cost to the family. This includes the presence of uniformed service members, the ceremonial folding and presentation of the U.S. flag, and the playing of Taps.
We help coordinate with local honor guards and veterans’ organizations to ensure the ceremony is both authentic and personal. In some cases, families choose to incorporate additional tributes — such as displaying medals, a military cap, or photographs from a loved one’s service. These personal touches help tell their story and preserve their legacy for future generations.
A Legacy of Service and Gratitude
As a family, we’ve always viewed our work as a continuation of service — one that honors those who gave so much for others. My father, Bob, often says that caring for veterans is one of the greatest privileges of our profession. Each folded flag represents not just one life, but generations of courage, family, and devotion to country.
“Every time we hear Taps played or see that flag carefully folded, we’re reminded that these moments represent generations of service and sacrifice.” — Julia R. Prout
Whether a veteran’s final resting place is Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, or another sacred space, the goal is always the same: to ensure their life of service is remembered with dignity.
Our Commitment to Those Who Served
At Prout Funeral Home, we’re deeply grateful to the veterans and families who have trusted us to care for them through the years. It’s a privilege we never take lightly.
As we approach Veterans Day, we invite you to join us — and the entire Verona community — in pausing to reflect on those who served and the families who continue to carry their memory forward.
At Prout Funeral Home, we proudly serve families throughout Verona, West Essex, and neighboring communities. Our team is honored to help veterans and their loved ones plan meaningful tributes that reflect a life of courage, commitment, and compassion.
Learn more about military honors and veterans’ services or contact us anytime for guidance on VA burial benefits and memorial arrangements.
