Newest National VA Cemetery Dedicated

Week of September 29, 2008

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has dedicated its newest national cemetery in Jacksonville, Fla. The cemetery, currently being constructed, is expected to begin burials in January 2009. The initial phase of construction will consist of a 20-acre burial area with temporary facilities. When the second stage of construction is completed, the 52-acre development will provide 8,145 full-casket gravesites, including 7,300 pre-placed crypts, 5,100 in-ground cremation sites and 4,992 columbarium niches for cremated remains. Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from VA's Burial and Memorials webpage or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at (800) 827-1000. For information on the Jacksonville National Cemetery, call the cemetery office at (904) 358-3510. To make burial arrangements at the time of need, call the national cemetery scheduling office at (800) 535-1117.