250 Years of Service and Sacrifice

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, national cemeteries remind us that liberty and equality have always required sacrifice. This WWII poster shows soldiers from the Revolutionary War through World War II marching together, symbolizing generations of Americans defending freedom. Part of 250 Years of Service and Sacrifice, it connects the nation’s founding to the courage honored in these sacred places.

Image courtesy National Archives, Artist Bernard Perlin

 

Close-up the United States Army Regulars Monument in Stones River National Cemetery.

NPS

America’s Story Etched in Stone

Stones River National Battlefield and Stones River National Cemetery invite you to explore the lives of the men and women whose service helped shape our nation.

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, Stories of Service and Sacrifice will highlight 250 or more veterans buried in Stones River National Cemetery throughout 2026. Through these individual stories, shared on the National Park Service website and daily on social media, we honor lives of service while exploring how national cemeteries serve as powerful links between the past and present.

Each headstone represents more than a name and a date. It marks a personal journey, of service, family, sacrifice, and memory, that contributes to America’s shared heritage.

 

Memorial Day at Stones River National Cemetery.

NPS Photo

Why National Cemeteries Matter

National cemeteries are places of honor and remembrance, but they are also archives of our collective story. They reflect the diversity of those who have served, the conflicts that shaped the nation, and the families and communities forever connected to them.

By telling these stories, we aim to:

• Highlight the service and sacrifice of American veterans
• Encourage exploration of family genealogy and local history
• Increase awareness of cemeteries as cultural and historical landscapes
• Foster connection, reflection, and unity during America’s 250th anniversary

 

This tin type photo of Union soldier Christian Nix, buried in Stones River National Cemetery, helps bring his story to life for generations to come.

NPS

Share Your Story

We invite families, descendants, and community members to help us tell these stories. If you have a loved one buried in Stones River National Cemetery, consider sharing:

• Photographs
• Letters or documents
• Military service details
• Personal memories or family stories

Your contributions help ensure these lives are remembered, honored, and shared with future generations.

How to participate

Please email the park to share your family's story or learn more about this project.

 

Stones River National Cemetery Stories