(HELENA) –The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) announced on Monday it has awarded the State of Montana up to $1.5 million for the expansion of the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula
The grant from the VA is for up to $1,537,769 for the expansion of the cemetery, which will fund 300 pre-placed crypts, 820 columbarium niches, as well as roadway enhancements, landscaping, and irrigation. The VA will also reimburse the state $274,006 for the cost of fabrication and delivery of outer burial receptacles used for the project. The cemetery currently serves more than 17,000 veterans and eligible family members.
“We have a solemn responsibility to honor and remember the veterans who have served our country and passed on,” Gov. Gianforte said. “With this expansion, the State of Montana will ensure the legacy of our heroes and their families is forever memorialized at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery.”
