From storming the beaches of Normandy to fighting in the harsh jungles of Vietnam, veterans of the U.S. military have fought valiantly in extreme conditions for the freedom of all Americans. But in the San Diego area, these veterans have had limited options for burials in national cemeteries until now.
The Department of Veterans Affairs held the dedication ceremony for the Miramar National Cemetery here Jan. 30 to allow our nations veterans a place to rest.
“We look forward to opening the gates of this ‘garden of heroes,’” said Congressman Bob Filner, representing the 51st district of California. “It’s a way for everyone to say ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you’ to all those veterans who have fought to make the nation what it is today.”
The event included the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing band, the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar color guard, a groundbreaking, unvailing of a dedication plaque and a rifle salute.
Many distinguished guests attended the event, including the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, the former secretary of Veteran’s Affairs, the acting undersecretary for Memorial Affairs, members of the House of Representatives and two Medal of Honor recipients.
“It’s breathtaking to look out on this audience and see those who have made such amazing sacrifices,” said Maj. Gen. Anthony L. Jackson, the commanding general of MCI West. “This ceremony is dedicated to those men and women who have stood tall in defense of their country.”
The 313-acre site on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar overlooks rolling hills of lush California native plants and a mountain range visible in the distance. The scenic property will host gravesite and columbarium development and provide full burial services to more than 230,000 veterans in the San Diego area.
“Miramar National Cemetery will become a national shrine,” said Congresswoman Susan Davis, representing the 53rd district of California. “Those who have served this country should be able to reside near the home they have grown to love.”
Although the cemetery will begin burial operations in the summer of 2010, construction will continue on permanent facilities through the summer of 2011. The construction involves building gravesites, in-ground cremation sites, columbarium niches, an administration building and maintenance complex, two committal service shelters and a public assembly area.
Any service member who dies on active duty, a veteran with a discharge other than dishonorable, and their spouses and dependent children will be eligible for burial in Miramar National Cemetery.
Other Veterans Affairs benefits for eligible veterans include a burial flag, a presidential memorial certificate and a government headstone or marker.
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