The Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery

The Division of Veterans Affairs maintains a dignified and solemn military cemetery on 265 acres in Exeter, Rhode Island. The cemetery serves as a final resting place for
Rhode Island Veterans who have served their country honorably during wartime and their eligible dependents. Twenty-year retirees of the Rhode Island National Guard have recently become eligible, as have reserve components of the National Guard and two-year active services personnel with honorable discharges. Committals are conducted with military honors and memorial services are provided at the
facility as well. The grounds of the cemetery are beautifully maintained and include a number of memorials dedicated to veterans of specific wars and conflicts, including the recently dedicated Korean War Memorial. The facility includes a Memorial Chapel/Committal Building which is available for a brief service not longer than 10 minutes on the day of burial. Memorial Day Ceremonies are conducted annually at the Veterans Cemetery, and family members and loved ones are invited and encouraged to attend this public event. The ceremony traditionally includes the participation of both the Governor and Director of Human Services, "Striking of the Colors" and "Firing Volleys" by the Rhode Island Army National Guard and the playing of "Taps" by Bugler 88th Army Band. As in years past, the "Avenue of the Flags" will decorate the roadways within the grounds. These flags, number over 300, have been presented to the cemetery by individuals and families in memory of deceased veterans everywhere.

 How to Apply:

At the time of death a funeral director would be contacted to provide necessary
documentation (DD 214-Discharge Papers). The funeral director would then make
arrangements with cemetery personnel. A family can make arrangements directly with the cemetery office for cremations only. At least 48 hours notice is required prior to burial.

Eligibility:

The eligibility requirements for the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery are as follows:

-Discharged from the military with "Honorable Service"
-Entry into the service from the State of Rhode Island or
  lived in Rhode Island two consecutive years prior to death.
-Active duty during a wartime period, two or more
  consecutive years of active duty during peacetime, or
  twenty years of National Guard of reserve time.

Contact:

Thomas W. Podgurski
Veterans Cemetery
301 South County Trail
Exeter, Rhode Island 02822
(401) 268-3088