Volunteer Spotlight: John Schmiedeke

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania Volunteer John Schmiedeke

NPS Photo

Two years ago, John Schmiedeke began his journey as a National Park Service volunteer, dedicating his time to a unique and meaningful project: cleaning the headstones in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. Week after week, John and another dedicated volunteer meticulously scrubbed away years of dirt and debris from each tombstone. This labor of love took them two years to complete, a task that brought John immense satisfaction in knowing he was honoring and giving back to the soldiers who rest there.

To this day, the National Cemetery remains John’s favorite place in the entire park.

Once John finished his headstone restoration project, his hard work and dedication caught the attention of the Ellwood Grounds Force, a well-respected volunteer team maintaining the historic Ellwood Manor grounds. Since joining, John has spent the season contributing to the upkeep of this cherished site and has built new friendships with fellow volunteers.

John is truly an amazing person who dedicates his time to the park, as he says, “for the love of giving back to a place he loves.” Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is a better place because of volunteers like John.

Thank you, John, for your service to the park and unwavering commitment to preserving its history and beauty!