News Release

Military Honors During National Park Week

Sailors fold flag during military honors

NPS Photo

News Release Date: May 15, 2015

Contact: Ruben Andrade, [phone]

On April 23, 2015, César E. Chávez National Monument hosted a special event, in cooperation with the Cesar Chavez Foundation, to provide military honors for César Chávez at this gravesite. Chávez served in the U.S. Navy as a Seaman 1st Class from 1946 – 1948. At the time of his death, he was not given a military funeral because he passed away so suddenly that the family did not have a chance to do so.

Planning for this event started last summer, when a member of the U.S. Navy reached out to the family and asked if they would like to honor Chávez with a military funeral ceremony. The family chose to do so on April 23, 2015—the 22nd anniversary of his death. Over 500 people, including many Latino American veterans, attended the ceremony. During the ceremony, a Navy bugler played “Taps.” In addition to a rifle salute, the Navy presented nine flags to Mrs. Chávez, their children, and other family members. After the ceremony, the public and news media were invited into the adjacent visitor center for additional presentations and films recognizing Latino American veterans’ patriotism and sacrifices for their country.

This beautiful and moving event celebrated the military contributions of César Chávez and countless American veterans that have served this country. What better way for people to “Find Your Park” during National Park Week!

–NPS–