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Fort Devens Cemetery Under New Ownership

sign that says fort devens post cemetery

Stand at the entrance of the Fort Devens Post Cemetery in Devens, Mass. and you will see dozens of rows of white gravestones, each offering a small glimpse into the life of the men and women who fought in multiple American wars.

Many of the veterans buried at the cemetery have seen battle during either the War of 1812, Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korea, or Vietnam War. Some of those buried on the property are actually German and Italian POWs from World War II. To this day, consulates and other representatives of both countries participate in remembrance ceremonies annually and on special occasions for their veterans.

With so much history encompassed in the 3.5 acre property, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Association (NCA) has decided to take over the cemetery to ensure its perpetual care.

The Massachusetts cemetery, established in 1939, is one of 11 nationwide handed over to the VA NCA from the Department of the Army, Army National Military Cemeteries (ANMC).

dozens of white gravestones

In April, the General Services Administration New England Region’s Real Property Utilization and Disposal Division assisted the VA NCA in acquiring the cemetery and in September, the federal transfer was completed stateside and nationwide.

Former New England Regional Administrator, Chris Averill said, “Caring for those who put on the uniform of the United States military is a solemn duty for our Federal government, and this extends to honoring service members after their passing." “I am proud that our GSA workforce was able to play a meaningful role in ensuring that the Fort Devens Post Cemetery continues to receive the necessary attention and dedication from the VA’s National Cemetery Association. The heroes buried there deserve nothing less.”

With the property considered historical, it is eligible for a listing on the National Register of Historic Places based on its association with the Fort Devens Historic District. The stone caretaker’s shed on the property is already listed on the registry.

The transfer of this 81-year old cemetery will now guarantee the protection of the land and 1,234 gravestones for years to come.

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Last updated: Jan 19, 2021
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