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Rep. Cavitt fights to bring Veterans Cemetery to Northeast Michigan
RELEASE|April 28, 2023
Contact: Cam Cavitt

Cavitt, Republican vice chair of the House Appropriations subcommittee on Military, Veterans Affairs and State Police, issued the following statement regarding the building of a veteran’s cemetery in Presque Isle County:

As a State Representative and a strong advocate for our veterans, I believe it is essential to honor their service and sacrifice by providing them with a final resting place that truly reflects their valor and dedication. That is why I am encouraging that we build the proposed veteran’s cemetery in Presque Isle County.

First and foremost, accessibility is a crucial consideration for any veteran’s cemetery. Presque Isle County, located in Northeast Michigan, includes major highways like U.S. 23, M-68, and M-33, and is just a short drive from I-75. This would make it easy for families of veterans from across Michigan, including the Upper Peninsula, to visit the cemetery and pay their respects to their loved ones. The proposed Presque Isle site is in close proximity to the new Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic being built in Indian River, meaning veterans and their families visiting the hospital would only be a short drive from the cemetery. The cemetery in Presque Isle would also be very close to the active Alpena Combat Readiness Center.

According to recent census data, approximately 10 percent of the population in the 106th House District, which includes Presque Isle County, consists of veterans. Compare that to the statewide average of five percent – Presque Isle has more veterans by population and percentage than even Crawford County, home of Camp Grayling. Relocating the proposed veteran’s cemetery to Presque Isle County would not only serve as a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country, but it would also provide a convenient and accessible final resting place for them and their families. It is our responsibility to ensure that our veterans are honored and remembered in the communities they have proudly served, and relocating the cemetery to Presque Isle County would be a meaningful way to achieve that goal.

Furthermore, community support is vital in the establishment and maintenance of a veteran’s cemetery. Presque Isle County has shown remarkable enthusiasm and support for the proposed cemetery, with local officials, organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, and residents expressing their eagerness to welcome the cemetery into their community. The strong community support in Presque Isle County would undoubtedly help ensure the success and longevity of the cemetery.

It is important to note that the funding for the establishment of the veteran’s cemetery has already been allocated. In PA 267 of 2022, the state budget included funding specifically designated for the construction and operation of the veteran’s cemetery. Building the proposed cemetery in Presque Isle County would not require additional funding or budget adjustments, as the necessary funds have already been allocated. This makes the proposed relocation a practical and feasible option that can be implemented without any financial burden on the state or taxpayers.

In conclusion, I strongly urge the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and my fellow colleagues to consider relocating the proposed veteran’s cemetery to Presque Isle County. This decision would enhance the accessibility for families, benefit veterans in the Upper Peninsula, and benefit from the robust community support in Presque Isle County. It is our responsibility to honor and respect our veterans in the best possible way, and I believe that Presque Isle County offers the ideal location for a veteran’s cemetery that our heroes deserve.

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