August 20, 2009

Sen. Carper Applauds Award To Expand VA Cemetery

WILMINGTON – Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) today applauded an announcement by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that it has awarded $1.8 million to the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Sussex to expand its facility.

As Governor, Sen. Carper worked with the Delaware Veterans Commission and Veterans organizations to secure funding to build the Veterans cemetery in southern Delaware, and was on hand to break ground at the site and dedicate it upon its opening in October 1999.

“This cemetery is a vital part of our State’s history and a tribute to all of the brave Delawareans who selflessly served our country with honor and distinction,” said Sen. Carper. “This grant will help ensure that their final resting place is symbolic of their enduring service and high sacrifice.”

According to the VA, “the grant to the state-run facility will fund the construction of a columbarium, pre-placed crypts and full-casket burial sites. The project will include 400 standard burial plots, 1,140 pre-placed crypts, 200 in-ground remains, and 1,280 columbarium niches.”

Sen. Carper considers the establishment of the Cemetery one of the key accomplishments of his administration as Governor.