I believe this web site may be useful:

http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/dependents/spouse.htm

There are a number of benefits available to veterans and the spouses of deceased veterans who were discharged under honorable conditions. Your neighbor may be eligible for assistance in paying to have him interred in a private cemetery and / or he may be eligible to be interred in a government cemetery at little or no cost. In either event, a headstone or marker may be provided at no cost. I believe survivors benefits are also available if he was actually retired (as opposed to separating from the Corps prior to retirement).

I'm not sure where you're at, but you may want to look up and contact the local chapter of the Marine Corps League. We are an organization of Marines helping Marines. Many chapters will provide an honor detail, sometimes a firing detail for funerals and graveside services, and most regularly send representatives to the funerals of fallen Marines as a show of brotherhood and respect.

You should be able to find a local detachment here:

http://www.mcleague.com/mdp/index.ph...8ce2917f83faf4

I'm always saddened to hear that another Marine has passed. But... as we say, we know we're going to Heaven, because we've done our time in Hell.

Semper Fi!
Tim
Marine Corps League Detachment #650 - Gung Ho