BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield National Cemetery announced June 5, families will once again be allowed on the grounds for committal services on June 9.

“We are pleased to resume committal services and military funeral honors at Bakersfield National Cemetery,” said Cemetery Director Randy Heard. “We will also soon be contacting families who chose direct interments to schedule memorial services and military funeral honors, if desired. We appreciate the patience and understanding families have shown during the COVID-19 pandemic and are eager to begin returning to normal operations.”

The cemetery did not completely close, it remained open solely for visitation, as a precaution, committal services and military funeral honors were stopped March 23.

Bakersfield National Cemetery has remained open for interments and visitation throughout the pandemic. Unfortunately, as a matter of health and safety, the cemetery began deferring committal services and military funeral honors on March 23.

The cemetery will continue to follow the CDC guidelines to keep staff and visitors safe, modifications will be made by limiting the number of people who can attend funerals to 10 family members and maintain an emphasis on social distancing in wearing protective face masks.

For more information, visit the National Cemetery Administration website or contact Bakersfield National Cemetery at (661) 867-2250.

To make burial arrangements or schedule a memorial service at Bakersfield National Cemetery or any VA national cemetery, contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at (800) 535-1117.