For Immediate Release  
Date: 8/23/2024

Chairman Don Wagner and Orange County Board of Supervisors Send Letter of Support for Veterans Cemetery Grants Program for Southern California Veterans Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon in Anaheim Hills

(Santa Ana, CA) – Chairman Don Wagner and the Orange County Board of Supervisors have sent a letter of support for the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program Pre-application submitted by the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration.

In the letter, the Board underscores its strong and unified backing for the development of the Southern California Veterans Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon in Anaheim Hills. After extensive deliberation and collaboration, the Board, along with all 34 cities in Orange County, a bipartisan majority of the County’s state and federal delegation, public safety and labor organizations, and over 100 Veterans’ organizations, have all endorsed the Gypsum Canyon site.

“The Veterans’ community and the County have made significant progress towards the creation of this fitting cemetery for our Veterans,” said Chairman Wagner. “This application to the Federal Government has been a long time coming and reflects the diligent work of many Veterans and state and local leaders. I hope the Department of Veterans Affairs quickly joins in our efforts.”

The Board's commitment is reflected in their 2021 decision to allocate $20 million specifically for site development and the deed of over 280 acres of County-owned land for the project. This was further supported by the Anaheim City Council’s recent approval of the Orange County Cemetery District’s application to develop a public cemetery at the Gypsum Canyon site.

“This cemetery is not just a place of rest but a testament to the valor and dedication of our servicemen and women,” added Chairman Wagner. “We are proud to lead this initiative and ensure that our Veterans receive the respect and honor they so richly deserve.”

The Orange County Board of Supervisors remains dedicated to collaborating with CalVet and other stakeholders to advance the development of this important site, providing a lasting tribute to those who have served our country with unwavering courage and dedication.

To learn more about the Third District office, please visit donwagnerca.com and follow him on social media @donwagnerca for the latest updates.

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