Amidst the serene desert landscape lies the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery. It’s a place where stories of courage, sacrifice, and honor are etched in stone. The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, established in 1990, spans 79 acres in Boulder City, a peaceful haven just 30 miles from the vibrant Las Vegas Strip. This cemetery, one of two state-operated veterans cemeteries in Nevada, stands as a testament to the service and dedication of our military veterans and their families. The other is located far north in Fernley. The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is a place of quiet reflection, a stark contrast to the bustling city nearby.
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery offers a final resting place for those who have served our nation. It’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms. As of December 2014, over 42,000 veterans and their family members rest within the grounds of Nevada’s two veterans cemeteries. These cemeteries, including the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, have been developed and expanded through grants from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. While the VA assists with construction, the state operates and maintains these sacred grounds. Nevada covers staffing and operational costs, ensuring the continued care and respect for those interred here.
Among the notable individuals laid to rest at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is former Nevada Governor, Mike O’Callaghan. A veteran himself, O’Callaghan served in the Marine Corps, Air Force, and Army. He even lost part of his leg during the Korean War. His commitment to service extended beyond his military career, leading him to the governorship and later, a prominent role in Nevada journalism. He rests alongside his wife, Carolyn, a testament to their shared dedication to the state. The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery also holds the remains of veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and later conflicts. Among them are those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan and Iraq, their names etched in the hearts of those who remember their service.
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery provides burial services at no cost to veterans. This comprehensive service includes the plot, opening and closing of the grave, a concrete vault, headstone, and perpetual care. For spouses and eligible dependents, there’s a nominal fee. The eligibility requirements for burial here mirror those of national cemeteries. It welcomes those who honorably served, ensuring a fitting tribute to their dedication and sacrifice.