Peace Garden News

Senator John Hoeven has announced the approval of a $3 million state funding package that will advance the development of a Veterans Memorial Center at the Fargo National Cemetery (FNC). Senate Bill 2265, which supports the funding, was signed into law in Bismarck, North Dakota, with the collaboration of state legislators and other key figures.

The Federal-State-Local partnership model, as highlighted by Hoeven, is a significant aspect of this project, which draws parallels with the state-run North Dakota Veterans Cemetery (NDVC) in Mandan. Hoeven acknowledged the contributions of various legislators, including Senators Scott Meyer, Randy Burckhard, Kathy Hogan, Larry Luick, and Ron Sorvaag as well as Representative Austen Schauer, whose collective efforts were instrumental in passing the bill.

Hoeven also emphasized the joint efforts required to secure federal approval for the development. "We continue working to secure key support from the administration to keep this project moving forward. Ultimately, this is about providing the kind of facilities our veterans and their families have earned and properly honoring their service to our nation," said Hoeven.

The signing ceremony, presided over by Governor Kelly Armstrong, was attended by key sponsors of the bill, as well as members of the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard. Governor Armstrong's involvement with local and state leaders underscored the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local entities in achieving this milestone.

Senator Meyer reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating, "As the son of a Vietnam veteran, it was the honor of my legislative career to secure funding for upgrades at the Fargo National Cemetery."

Representative Schauer echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the broader message this initiative sends to veterans and their families: "The passage of SB 2265 sends an important message to veterans and their families: We care."

With the cooperation of the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard, efforts are underway for them to develop and donate a commemorative work to the VA National Cemetery Administration. This partnership aims to streamline the process while reducing costs and administrative delays.

The Veterans Memorial Center is designed to offer several amenities, including a gathering area, gallery, VA staff offices, Honor Guard breakroom, indoor restrooms, a hearse garage, and a parking lot. The Fargo Memorial Honor Guard, now a designated 501(c)(3) organization, is expected to oversee the project with financial management from the Impact Foundation.

Hoeven has secured commitments from VA Secretary Doug Collins and Sam Brown, nominee for VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, to support the construction of the center. The project's realisation remains contingent on the final approval by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, a hurdle that Hoeven seeks to overcome through continued federal engagement.