Patriotic Cedar Cross

It was the nation’s bloodiest, most divisive war that sparked the creation of America’s first national cemetery. In July 1862, at the height of the Civil War, Congress initiated the national cemetery system when it passed legislation authorizing President Abraham Lincoln to purchase land to create national cemeteries for “soldiers who shall have died in the service of the country.”

Arlington National Cemetery on the outskirts of the nation’s capitol in Arlington, Virginia was the first national cemetery. Today 141 national cemeteries hold the remains of our country’s fallen warriors, including 14 burial sites at national battlefields. Any U.S. soldier who has served on active duty for a least 24 months, any sodier who died during or as a result of combat, certain reservists, and any soldier honorably discharged may choose to be buried at a national cemetery. In some cases, the spouses of veterans may also be buried at national cemeteries. Veterans are also eligible for a free grave marker courtesy of Uncle Sam, whether they are buried in a private or national cemetery. Veterans or their families may choose from granite, marble or bronze monument plaques by making application to the Veterans Administration Monument Service.

Gravesite Masters can help you remember loved ones who have served our country. We can deliver Memorial Day flags, flowers and memorials to cemeteries across the country.