Serene Resting Place ~ Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery

With Memorial Day rapidly approaching, it seems a fitting time to say a few words about our visit to Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, 77 acres of serene resting place for ~ 72,000 veterans and their family. This is one of 120 national cemeteries, one which could not have a more breathtaking backdrop, that being San Diego Bay, the Submarine Base, and the city.  The stark white marble headstones dotting the rolling hillsides drew us in and we were humbled by the experience.

This national cemetery dates back to the mid-1800’s, with some of the first to be interred here as a result of the Battle of San Pasqual, which occurred during the Mexican-American War in December of 1846.  It became an Army Post Cemetery in the 1860’s, a National Cemetery in 1934, and was placed under the auspices of the Veteran’s Administration National Cemetery System in 1973.  Fort Rosecrans has been closed to in-ground burials since 1966 but space is still available for cremated remains.

Memorial Day, known quite often as the kickoff to summer, ending a long school session for many, was the day initially set aside to honor all the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep this land of ours free.  It is the day that we remember not only those serving our country in the Armed Forces now but all  who bravely fought.  One of San Diego’s largest celebrations is held on Memorial Day at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, a most serene resting place.

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