Memorial Day 2020 ~ National Cemetery of the Alleghenies Stand-down
07 May 20 |
 |
 |
A message below from the Director of the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, explaining cancelling the Memorial Day Ceremony for all Veteran’s Affairs National Cemeteries
Hello everyone, I hope this email finds you well.
I just wanted to keep everyone update on the status of Memorial Day.
I regret to inform you that the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies will not host any public Memorial Day events or ceremonies.
Traditionally these events are well attended and supported by the community. Unfortunately, hosting gatherings of these sizes is not advisable due to concerns about COVID-19. Despite not holding a public ceremony, the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies will uphold its long-standing tradition of observing Memorial Day. My staff will conduct a wreath-laying ceremony to officially commemorate Memorial Day.
This National Cemetery, like all VA national cemeteries, will be open on Memorial Day weekend from dawn to dusk for visitation. Families and other guests are asked to adhere to CDC, state and local health and safety guidelines.
We invite families to visit on any day of the weekend to avoid possible crowds on Memorial Day itself. Families may place flowers or small American flags at their Veteran’s gravesite.
Due to the risk of spreading coronavirus, cemetery map kiosks will be closed over the Memorial Day weekend. The public should use the online National Gravesite Locator, https://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/ to locate graves either before or during their visit. This site can be accessed on mobile devices at cemeteries where coverage exists.
If there are questions or concerns, please let us know so we can address them. Please forward this email to anyone not listed so they are aware as well
We apologize and we hope you understand the decision.
Thank you and stay safe!
Respectfully,
Ed
Edward A. Hajduk
Director
National Cemetery of the Alleghenies
