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Great Lakes National Cemetery Cancels Veterans Day Ceremony as Federal Shutdown Drags On

Officials cited the ongoing shutdown, saying no appropriated funds are available to stage the Nov. 11 event.

Overview

  • The Holly, Michigan cemetery announced the decision on social media on Nov. 5, less than a week before Veterans Day.
  • The grounds will remain open daily from dawn to dusk for visitors wishing to pay respects.
  • The federal government shutdown has reached 36 days, reported as the longest in U.S. history.
  • VA contingency guidance limits staffing to interments and pauses grounds maintenance and the placement of permanent headstones at national cemeteries.
  • A planned headstone cleaning event on Oct. 18 was also called off under the same constraints, and the site typically draws thousands for Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.