March 31, 2020

Maine Veterans' Cemeteries Update Interment Protocol For COVID-19

AUGUSTA, Maine (March 31, 2020) - In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, effective March 31, 2020, the Maine Veterans' Cemetery System (MVCS) will be completing direct interments only at all cemetery locations: Augusta (2), Caribou and Springvale.

All Maine Veterans Cemeteries are open and will continue to provide interments for veterans and eligible individuals. However, the MVCS is continuing to adjust its services in light of best practices urged by the CDC in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Maine Veterans Cemetery System will continue to honor the service of our veterans," stated David Richmond, Director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services. We understand the importance and significance of a family member paying their respects during these difficult times; however, we must also take into consideration the health and well-being of our grounds crew and those families and friends in attendance.

Starting March 31, 2020, as a matter of public health and safety, committal services will be discontinued until further notice. Immediate family members (limited to 10 individuals) of the deceased may choose to witness the interment from the cemetery road or the sections edge. Cemeteries will work to schedule a committal or memorial services at a later date for those families that choose to continue with the direct interment.

Scott Brown, Superintendent of the Maine Veterans Cemetery System offered remarks of caution. We ask our visitors to be mindful of those who are more susceptible to this virus as well as our dedicated staff. This was a difficult decision to make, however for public safety, it is necessary at this time.

For more information on the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, please visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services website at: http://maine.gov/veterans/memorial-cemetery-system.

About Maine Bureau of Veterans Services The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services was established in 1947 by the State of Maine and is part of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. Our mission is to help Mainers who served, and their loved ones, understand and navigate the benefits, services, and programs available to them. The Bureau is headquartered at Camp Keyes and has six field service offices located throughout the state and a claims office located at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Togus, Maine. The Bureau also operates the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System which includes four veterans cemeteries. For more information about the Bureau or to request assistance, please visit our website at www.maine.gov/veterans.