The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded more than $7.1 million to the Commonwealth to build new Veterans cemeteries on Tinian and Rota, a major expansion of burial access for veterans and their families across the CNMI’s three main islands.
The VA’s National Cemetery Administration approved a grant of up to $3.11 million for the Tinian Veterans Cemetery and $3.5 million for the Rota Veterans Cemetery. The agency will also reimburse the CNMI $538,600 for the fabrication and delivery of pre‑placed crypts, bringing the total federal investment to more than $7.1 million.
The new facilities will complement the existing Veterans Cemetery in Marpi, giving families on Tinian and Rota local options for burial and memorial services.
“Our veterans answered the call to serve our nation, and they deserve to be honored with dignity, not only during their service, but for generations after,” said Del. Kimberlyn King‑Hinds. “These investments on Tinian and Rota are about making sure our veterans and their families can remain close to their communities while receiving the honor and respect they have earned.”
The grants will fund construction of 40 pre‑placed crypts, 40 columbarium niches, memorial walls, committal shelters, flag areas, walkways, landscaping, fencing, gates, maintenance facilities and other core infrastructure at each site. The Rota cemetery will also include a water tank and solar‑power system.
King‑Hinds, who serves on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has made veterans’ issues central to her work in Congress, pushing for improved access to health care, reduced travel burdens and expanded federal support for veterans living in the CNMI.
“For our veterans on Tinian and Rota, having cemeteries in their own communities means their families will have a place close to home to honor their loved ones,” she said. “With the Veterans Cemetery in Marpi already serving Saipan, these new facilities will help ensure veterans across the CNMI have greater access to the services and recognition they have earned.”
King‑Hinds added that her office will continue working to strengthen veterans’ services, from expanding health‑care access to ensuring veterans can be laid to rest near their families.
