Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego

Nestled in the city of San Diego, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery stands as a solemn and dignified final resting place for thousands of United States military veterans and their eligible family members. Overlooking the deep blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean to the west and the bustling San Diego Bay to the east, this hallowed ground spans more than 77 acres on the Point Loma peninsula.

Established in 1934, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery is named after William Starke Rosecrans, a Union general in the American Civil War. The cemetery's history, however, dates back much further, with the first recorded burial taking place in the late 19th century. It is now a consolidated national cemetery that serves as a testament to the military service and sacrifices made by men and women in the defense of the United States.

The meticulously maintained grounds are lined with rows upon rows of white gravestones, each marking the life and service of an individual who served their country with honor. The cemetery is the final resting place for veterans of every major conflict the United States has been involved in, from the Indian Wars to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery has been designated as a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Among the notable monuments within its boundaries is the USS Bennington Monument, which commemorates the sailors who lost their lives in a ship boiler explosion in 1905.

The cemetery is open to visitors every day, providing a serene environment for reflection and remembrance. It also hosts several annual commemorative events, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, which draw large crowds of veterans, family members, and the public to pay their respects.

Accessibility is a priority, with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities. While the cemetery reached maximum capacity for casketed interments, it continues to accept cremated remains and accommodate eligible family members.