History: Monuments and Notable Burials
Monuments
32nd Indiana Infantry (Bloedner) Monument Project
The 32nd Indiana Infantry Monument, carved 1862, was moved to Cave Hill National Cemetery in Louisville, KY, in 1867. It is the country's oldest surviving Civil War memorial. However, its condition was deteriorating. Over several years, NCA conserved this monument, now displayed at the Frazier History Museum, and produced a successor that was dedicated at the cemetery in December 2011.
History and Context of the Bloedner Monument
Moving and Conservation Slideshow
Frazier History Museum
Notable Burials
Scout, POW, Enlistee, Diplomat, Code Talker: American Indians in Military Service
During U.S. westward expansion in the nineteenth century, most wars pitted American Indian tribes against one another and the Army. However, tribesmen also served alongside white and black enlisted men and officers--an estimated 20,000 during the Civil War. From the first American Indian to graduate from West Point in 1822 to specialist Navajo Code Talkers in World War II, American Indians also had to overcome racial discrimination in order to serve our nation. Many are buried in NCA cemeteries.
Learn more about American Indians in Military Service.
Learn more about American Indian Code Talkers in WWII.
Hispanic Heritage Heroes
During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) NCA highlights the long tradition of military service by the Hispanic community. Hispanics have contributed to military successes since the settlement of the Southwest Territories, including the "Bushmasters" during World War II and the Puerto Rican Borinqueneers beginning in World War I.
Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month.
In Recognition of Women Who Served
The range of women buried in VA national cemeteries is impressive: women who served in every branch of the military, spouses and some wives who literally followed their husbands into war, as well as nurses, civilian employees, spies, and elected officials. These women also represent the diversity of America, challenging gender and racial barriers. Learn more about women and our national cemeteries:
Women and VA National Cemeteries
Authorizing Women in Military Service: Nursing to Combat
NOTE: Page may contain links that will take you away from the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
