Long Island National Cemetery, located in Farmingdale, New York, is one of the largest national cemeteries in the United States. It serves as the final resting place for over 346,000 veterans and their families. The cemetery's history dates back to 1936 when it was established to provide a burial ground for veterans from the New York City area. Over the years, it has become a place of reverence and remembrance, honoring the sacrifices of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
History of Long Island National Cemetery
The establishment of Long Island National Cemetery was a response to the growing need for a national cemetery in the New York City area. Prior to its establishment, veterans from the region were buried in various local cemeteries, including Cypress Hills National Cemetery in Brooklyn. However, with the increasing demand for burial space, the federal government decided to create a new national cemetery on Long Island. The site chosen for the cemetery was a 364-acre farm in Farmingdale, which was purchased by the government in 1935. The cemetery was officially dedicated on October 27, 1936, and the first burial took place on November 2, 1936.
Notable Interments
Long Island National Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable veterans, including Medal of Honor recipients, generals, and other distinguished military personnel. Some of the notable interments include:
- General Alexander Patch, a World War II general who commanded the Seventh Army during the invasion of southern France
- General James Van Fleet, a World War II and Korean War general who commanded the Eighth Army during the Korean War
- Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant First Class Jared C. Monti, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan
- Medal of Honor recipient Private First Class Garfield M. Langhorn, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II
| Name | Rank | Conflict |
|---|---|---|
| General Alexander Patch | General | World War II |
| General James Van Fleet | General | World War II, Korean War |
| Sergeant First Class Jared C. Monti | Sergeant First Class | Afghanistan |
| Private First Class Garfield M. Langhorn | Private First Class | World War II |
Veterans Buried at Long Island National Cemetery
Long Island National Cemetery is the final resting place of veterans from all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The cemetery also includes a Memorial Section where the names of those who are missing in action or whose remains have not been recovered are listed. The cemetery’s Wall of Honor lists the names of all Medal of Honor recipients who are buried at the cemetery.
The cemetery's gravesite locator allows visitors to find the graves of specific veterans, making it easier to pay respects to loved ones. The locator can be accessed online or at the cemetery's administrative office. Visitors can also participate in the cemetery's wreath-laying ceremony, which takes place on Memorial Day and other special occasions.
Cemetery Operations
Long Island National Cemetery is operated by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA), which is responsible for maintaining the cemetery’s grounds, facilities, and records. The NCA also provides support to families and visitors, including assistance with gravesite location, burial arrangements, and memorial services.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cemetery Size | 364 acres |
| Number of Graves | over 346,000 |
| Number of Visits | over 1 million per year |
What is the history of Long Island National Cemetery?
+Long Island National Cemetery was established in 1936 to provide a burial ground for veterans from the New York City area. The cemetery’s history dates back to the 1930s when the federal government decided to create a new national cemetery on Long Island.
Who is buried at Long Island National Cemetery?
+Long Island National Cemetery is the final resting place of over 346,000 veterans and their families. The cemetery includes the graves of Medal of Honor recipients, generals, and other distinguished military personnel.
How can I find a grave at Long Island National Cemetery?
+The cemetery’s gravesite locator allows visitors to find the graves of specific veterans. The locator can be accessed online or at the cemetery’s administrative office.
