Who must be notified about unclaimed remains suspected to be a veteran?

The correct choice emphasizes the vital role of the Department of Veteran Services when it comes to unclaimed remains suspected to be those of a veteran. This is important because veterans may have specific benefits and services available to them upon death, including military honors and burial benefits. The Department of Veteran Services is responsible for overseeing these entitlements and for ensuring that veterans receive the proper recognition and care even after their passing.

By notifying this department, it allows for identification processes to take place and ensures that veterans receive the dignified burial they are entitled to. This action promotes respect for their service and provides a means of repatriation if necessary.

Choosing another option would miss the specialized authority and resources that the Department of Veteran Services has to address these particular situations related to veterans. Local governments or funeral home boards may not have the same understanding or means to handle the specific issues concerning unclaimed remains of veterans, and relatives are often not able to fulfill the needs for veteran-specific arrangements.