Blessing Held for Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery Expansion Project

About 50 people gathered for the blessing of the Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery Expansion Project in Hanapēpē on Thursday, April 21.

“I would like to thank every person and organization who had a role in expanding this sacred, hallowed ground where many of our brave who fought for our freedom now rest,” said Mayor Derek Kawakami. “From the bottom of our hearts, I thank the families, past veterans, and active service members for your sacrifices and service to our country.”

The expansion project includes the construction of 211 pre-placed crypts, 407 in-ground cremains gravesites, 640 columbarium niches, a memorial wall, roadways, irrigation, landscaping, and supporting infrastructure on approximately 2.5 acres. This project enables the cemetery to provide continued service for about 4,500 Veterans and eligible family members.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration awarded a $5 million grant to the State of Hawai‘i in September 2020 to fund the expansion. The project was completed in April 2022.

The Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetary is owned by the State of Hawai‘i – Department of Defense and is maintained by the County of Kaua‘i.

The Kaua‘i Veterans Cemetery was developed and dedicated in 1948.