09.20.19

Sullivan Applauds VA Funding of Metlakatla Veterans Cemetery

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that it has awarded nearly $1.1 million in grant funding for the creation of a Veterans Cemetery in Metlakatla, Alaska. This announcement is the culmination of cooperative work between U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Metlakatla leaders, and the VA’s National Cemetery Administration (NCA).

“We’ve been working toward this goal for years and it is a huge achievement for the entire Metlakatla community,” said Senator Sullivan. “Every American veteran, no matter where they live, deserves a resting place that commemorates their service and sacrifice to our country. I am incredibly pleased that funding is on the way so that our great veterans in Metlakatla will now have that place.” 

BACKGROUND: 

  • According to the VA, this grant will fund the construction of 48 standard burial gravesites, a flag assembly area, roadway, landscaping, and supporting infrastructure. The project will develop 2.5 acres, enabling the cemetery to provide service for approximately 1,600 Veterans and their eligible family members. 
  • Senator Sullivan and Metlakatla leadership – including former Mayor Audrey Hudson and current Mayor Karl Cook – worked with VA Undersecretary for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves to prioritize federal funding for the cemetery.

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