Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation

The Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 2006 by San Diego-area veterans, including retired Air Force Brigadier General Robert L. Cardenas, Navy veteran John G. Ibe, Army veteran Richard T. Sells, and retired Army Colonel Jesse Ugalde[1]. The foundation's primary mission is to support the activities of Miramar National Cemetery through memorial projects and fundraising efforts.

Background

The foundation was originally known as the Support Foundation for Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery at Miramar. Its initial goal was to persuade the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a new cemetery in San Diego as an auxiliary to Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, which had been effectively closed to new burials since 1966[1]. The lack of a local veterans' cemetery forced families to travel to Riverside National Cemetery or other Southern California cemeteries for burials[1].

Achievements

The foundation successfully campaigned for the creation of Miramar National Cemetery, which began construction in 2009 and was dedicated on January 30, 2010[1][2]. The first interments occurred in November 2010[2]. The foundation has coordinated various ceremonies and events at the cemetery, including the dedication of the POW Monument and the initiation of annual Memorial Day services[1].

Projects

• Avenue of Flags: This project involved raising $110,000 to install 50 American flags along the cemetery's main avenue. The foundation dedicates itself to maintaining this installation through annual flag change-outs and equipment maintenance[1].
• Veterans Tribute Tower & Carillon: The foundation raised $500,000 to construct a 30-foot tower featuring a bronze bell and a music system that plays patriotic tunes, including "Taps" each evening[1].
• Memorial Amphitheater Upgrade: The foundation is currently working to improve the Memorial Amphitheater by installing permanent seating, ADA-accessible walkways, and new landscaping[1].

Governance and Operations

The foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charity, governed by a board consisting mainly of U.S. Armed Forces veterans. It meets monthly and organizes patriotic ceremonies for Memorial Day and Veterans Day[1]. The foundation conducts annual fundraising campaigns to support its projects and events[1].

Legacy and Impact

By enhancing the facilities and programs at Miramar National Cemetery, the Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation plays a crucial role in honoring veterans and their families through memorial projects and community engagement. The foundation's efforts have significantly contributed to the establishment and beautification of the cemetery.