VA Prioritizes Orange County Veterans Cemetery for Funding
The proposed veterans cemetery in Orange County has been added to the priority list for funding by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, marking a significant step towards establishing a final resting place for local veterans. This designation confirms that the project meets all federal requirements for construction, which has been a long-sought goal for the community.
Nick Berardino, president of the Veterans Alliance of Orange County and a Marine Corps veteran, has been a key advocate for this initiative. In August, twenty members of California’s congressional delegation signed a letter urging the VA to approve a pre-application for a $6 million grant necessary for the cemetery’s development. The funding is essential for construction to proceed in Gypsum Canyon, where the Orange County Cemetery District is already working on a public cemetery.
Despite the positive news, the ongoing federal government shutdown complicates the timeline for funding decisions. Berardino emphasized the need for California’s Governor, Gavin Newsom, to take immediate action regarding the Gypsum Canyon property. He stated, “We call on California’s commander-in-chief to immediately take possession of the Gypsum Canyon property. Doing so will allow California to honor its veterans and advance construction while federal funding efforts continue.”
Berardino highlighted that the cemetery has been ranked only 13th on the VA’s priority list, indicating that more advocacy is required in Washington. He insisted, “California’s veterans must not be caught in the crossfire of disputes between Sacramento and Washington. This project must move forward without delay.”
The Orange County Board of Supervisors has already allocated over $55 million in state and local funds, ensuring that the project can progress once federal funding is secured. Chair Doug Chaffee remarked that the VA’s decision provides “long-overdue hope to Orange County veterans and their families.”
Tim Deutsch, General Manager of the Orange County Cemetery District, expressed optimism about breaking ground next year, with the public cemetery expected to open by 2027 or 2028. He noted that a cost-sharing agreement between the cemetery district and CalVet is still pending, which will be finalized following the federal grant decision.
As the community awaits further developments, the push for the veterans cemetery reflects a broader commitment to honoring those who have served in the military, ensuring they have a dignified place for rest close to home.
