News Release

Work to Begin Raising Buried Headstones

Date: March 15, 2018
Contact: Scott Babinowich, [phone]

The work is being led by the Delta 6 crew of AmeriCorps NCCC who will be stationed at Vicksburg National Military Park for four weeks before moving on to projects on the Natchez Trace Parkway. Time and weather permitting, the NCCC crew will also assist with maintaining the Al Scheller Boy Scout Trail, exotic plant removal, and cannon carriage painting.

“We are grateful for the support from AmeriCorps for this very important project,” said Superintendent Bill Justice. “Through our partnership with AmeriCorps, we are able to tackle large scale projects such as this. This headstone project not only helps to honor our veterans and beautify the National Cemetery, but it does so in a way that is employing youth, giving them life experiences, and strengthening our connection with our cross-town partners at the AmeriCorps Southen Campus in Vicksburg.”

No impacts to the public are expected. Visitors are encouraged to obey all posted speed limits and posted warning signs in the cemetery. Temporary marking flags have been placed above the identified sunken headstones to mark which headstones have to be raised.

About Vicksburg National Cemetery: Established in 1866, Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 17,000 American troops from the Civil War through the Korean War. Of the 17,000 burials, almost 13,000 are unknown. The National Cemetery also protects a significant number of United States Colored Troops who served with distinction during the Civil War and were garrisoned in Vicksburg throughout the 1870s.

About AmeriCorps: AmeriCorps NCCC is a full time, residential, team based program for young adults, age 18-24. Members develop leadership skills and strengthen communities by completing service projects and gaining life experience.