But if I had fallen in battle, my wife wouldn't have had to apply for my burial?
Correct. If a service member dies on active duty, they're eligible for burial without a pre-need decision letter.
Do you perhaps have number I could call? I find it a bit difficult to write all this.
Yes, you can call 877-222-8387. We're here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.