VA Announces $1 Million Contract to Plan Expansion, Improvements at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery

VA Announces $1 Million Contract to Plan Expansion, Improvements

at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery

            WASHINGTON — Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki has announced a $1 million architect-engineer contract to prepare construction documents for gravesite development and cemetery improvements at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Pa.

“Awarding this contract begins the important process of expanding and improving this national shrine,” said Secretary Shinseki.  “Keystone State Veterans have come to expect a certain standard from Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, and we are certain this project will be in keeping with that tradition.”

The contract was awarded to Cairone & Kaupp, Inc., a small business based in Philadelphia, in the amount of $1,055,073.  This design project is scheduled for completion in spring 2011.  

The fourth phase of development for the 28-year-old cemetery, when completed, will have successfully developed 15 acres into new burial sections, including approximately 5,700 pre-placed crypts; 5,500 columbarium niches for cremation remains; improvements to the maintenance complex, committal shelters, roads and drainage systems; upgrades to signage; and memorial walls to honor Veterans.  The project will also incorporate VA and industry high standards of green building principles and renewable energy.

Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery.  Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.  

Other burial benefits available for all eligible Veterans include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate, a government headstone or marker, or a service medallion for a private marker.  Families may order a memorial headstone or marker when remains are not available for interment.

In the midst of the largest expansion since the Civil War, VA operates 131 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico and 33 soldiers’ lots and monument sites. More than 3.5 million Americans, including Veterans of every war and conflict, are buried in VA’s national cemeteries on more than 19,000 acres of land. 

Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 800-827-1000.  To make burial arrangements at the time of need at any VA national cemetery, call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 800-535-1117.  For more information on Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, contact the cemetery staff at 717-865-5254.

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