WASHINGTON, D.C. — In response to COVID-19 concerns and closures all Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemeteries are open and will provide interments for veterans and individuals who are eligible.

Bakersfield National Cemetery is affected by this change in operations.

Starting March 23, committal services and the awarding of military funeral honors will not be conducted until further notice.

“VA national cemeteries will continue to perform our essential function – to inter Veterans and eligible individuals” said Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves. “We trust the public understands that we must place priority on the health and safety of Veterans and families and our team members who serve them.”

VA national cemeteries will remain open to the public, but the public is encouraged avoid unnecessary travel. There will be parts of the cemeteries that will not be open, such as public information centers and chapels.

For more information contact NCA Public Affairs chief Les’ Melnyk at (202) 891-9987.

To make burial arrangements at any VA national cemetery, call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at (800) 535-1117.