New cemetery construction begins in June             Mike A. Glasch       Leader Staff

Officials with Veterans Affairs say construction on the national cemetery to be built on Fort Jackson is scheduled to begin mid-June. The cemetery’s director, Gene Linxwiler said he expects the cemetery to begin interments by November. “Once construction begins, weather would be the biggest drawback to completing the project on time,” he said. Construction will take place in several phases, the first phase has two parts (Phase 1A and 1B). Phase 1A will be an early burial area with temporary facilities while Phase 1B is being completed. The Phase 1 development will provide 5,000 full caskets (including 4,200 crypts) and 2,450 cremains niches including a 2,000-niche columbaria.  The project will also include an administration/public information facility, maintenance facility, two committal shelters for interment ceremonies, a flag/assembly area and supporting infrastructure; including utilities and irrigation. Linxwiler said he anticipates the VA to choose a name for the cemetery soon. Once completed, the cemetery will be bordered by Wildcat Road to the west, Spears Creek Church Road to the east, North Tower Road to the south and Percival Road to the north. A complete list of who is eligible for burial in a national cemetery can be found on the burial and memorials page of the VA Web site at www.cem.va.gov.