On Sunday, I visited the Fort Bliss National Cemetery. I have been there on several occasions, having the honor to perform graveside services for several servicemen and women within the last two years. As an Army Chaplain, I am included on a rotation of Chaplains that perform these services. It is always an honor to provide that service and it always reminds me of the critical role that Chaplains play in our Armed Forces.
My visit Sunday was a time to simply walk through the cemetery to take a moment to honor those who once wore the uniform and have passed into the next life. The Fort Bliss Cemetery does a wonderful job of making the Memorial Day weekend special by lining the roads with flags and by placing an American Flag on each of the graves. This cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place to honor our fallen and our veterans. The grounds are always meticulously care for and ready for visitors, but during the Memorial Day Weekend, extra effort is put in to bring visitors to a place of peace and honor.
While most cemeteries are covered with grass, The Fort Bliss National Cemetery is covered with a fine gravel. The weather in El Paso is unique. There is a rare amount of rain and the cost to water would be astronomical. Further, grass is not easy to grow in El Paso, so every time a grave would be dug there would be a struggle to fill the hole once it was dug. The fine gravel also adds a beautifully local touch that makes the cemetery stand out from the others in the country in a very respectful way. The result of the gravel is a distinctive look that is stunning against the back drop of the Franklin Mountains.
It is important to me to remember those who have served in our Armed Forces and to honor those who died in that service. A visit to the local National Cemetery is a great way to pay our respects and to learn a little bit of history on the side.