Biloxi National Cemetery
Biloxi National Cemetery is a U.S. National Cemetery that is located in Biloxi, Mississippi on the grounds of the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), near Keesler Air Force Base. It occupies approximately 54 acres (22 ha), and is site to 15,278 interments as of the end of 2005.
History
Biloxi National Cemetery was established in 1934 and its first burial was held on March 24, 1934.
From 1934 to 1973 the purpose of Biloxi National Cemetery was to provide a final resting place solely for veterans who died in the adjoining medical center. In 1973 with the passage of the National Cemetery Act, the burial ground was opened to all honorably discharged veterans, active duty personnel, and their dependents regardless of where they died. Since its establishment, the grounds have increased in size twice as the result of land transfers from the VAMC. Originally 25 acres (10 ha), in 1982, 17 acres (6.9 ha) were added and in 1996, 12 more were added for a total of 54 acres (22 ha).
Notable markers
A granite marker located in front of the cemetery's administration building was donated by the National Association of Atomic Veterans on November 9, 1990, in memory of the veterans who participated in the U.S. nuclear weapons testing program.
Notable burials
- Colonel Ira C. Welborn, Medal of Honor recipient for actions in the Spanish–American War.
- Thomas Daniel Willis Jr.