March 13, 2024~Sarasota, South Florida National Cemetery

 *Florida has nine National Cemeteries, all part of the U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. The VA's National Cemetery Administration maintains 155 national cemeteries in 42 states and Puerto Rico. The largest military cemetery in the US is, of course, Arlington National Cemetery, containing over 400,000 headstones and spans 639 acres. 

The cemetery is open to the public daily. Here, within the cemetery, sets a 2,800-seat outdoor amphitheater that holds scheduled events throughout the year. Patriot Plaza was dedicated on June 28, 2014. 

"The Plaza features commissioned art that honors veterans, inspires patriotism , and embraces freedom."

The entire cemetery was one of peace and reflection. "The interment area provide for nearly 15,200 casket gravesites, including 14,800 pre-placed crypts, 8,600 in ground cremains and 7,200 columbarium niches." 

What a reminder of ultimate sacrifice this 295-acres provided.

Indeed, our nation's heroes!

Take a moment to say "THANK YOU" as you watch my 18 second video below.

If you are in the Sarasota area, stop by for an hour or two.