Tahoma National Cemetery
May 27, 2008 by Colleen
Filed under Area Information, Featured
Memorial Day weekend brought forward thoughts of our troops overseas as well as those who have lost 
their lives in battle serving our Country.
Here in Maple Valley, we are fortunate to have one of our Country’s National Cemetary’s just a short drive away. On July 17, 1863 the United States Congress approved legislation to give the President authorization to purchase private property to be used as national cemeteries for soldiers who would die having served their country. One hundred and thirty years later, Washington State established it’s first and only national cemetery approximately 20 miles South East of Seattle in Covington, Washington.
Dedicated on September 26, 1997, the Tahoma National Cemetery is located on 160 acres next to Tahoma High School. It is a beautiful place with curving roads leading to a circular drive around the flagpole. When you look back, to the South you are awed by the magnificence of Mt. Rainier framed by trees. The landscape design firm who laid out the cemetery was awarded an “Honor Award” by the Washington Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for the impressive design which features the view of Mount Rainier.
Any honorably discharged Veteran or immediate family member may be buried at Tahoma without cost for the plot or niche There is a Memorial Walkway which commemorates 23 soldiers who fought in 20th century wars. If you follow the walkway to the Northeast corner you’ll find the POW-MIA flag. There is also a Blue Star memorial which honors all veterans.
The historical significance of the blue star is that it was a symbol families used on flags at their homes during World War II to show they had a loved one fighting at the time. I consider myself fortunate to have such a beautiful landmark so close to where I live. It is an impressive tribute to our Armed Forces and reminder of the sacrifices they have made and continue to make every day.
Copyright 2008, Colleen Fischesser All Rights Reserved
Colleen Fischesser is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Select in Maple Valley, WA. She has been successfully selling and marketing properties all over South King & North Pierce counties since 1990 but specializes in the greater Maple Valley area. She may be contacted directly at: 425-432-5400
Colleen Fischesser, Washington State Designated Broker & Owner of RE/MAX Select Real Estate in Maple Valley Washington; Member Northwest Multiple Listing Association, Seattle/King County Association of Realtors. Voted "Best in Client Satisfaction" Seattle Magazine 2006 & 2007. "I was bitten by the "house-hunting bug" at a young age when I would go through the Sunday papers with my parents, looking for open houses. My father was an NFL football coach and we had moved several times throughout my childhood before finally settling in the Pacific Northwest. I have come to view the house hunting and the moving process as an adventure, and although it can sometimes be stressful and inconvenient, I love the process as much today as I did back then!"
My Husband is an honorably discharged Veteran from WWII - with 19 years service. He was creamated in June and I would like details on burial in the Maple Valley - Tahoma Veterans Cemetary.
What paper work do we need or how do we make arrangements. When the urn is buried can the family be present. This is very important to my daughters. So what would be the proceedure for that.
If you have papers to sign and a booklet on buriel there - I will include my mailing address
Mrs Willard Spencer
Thank you for your help
Mrs Spencer, I will gladly look into this for you and be in touch. The cemetary is truly a very noble resting place. The view of Mt. Rainier on a clear day is just amazing.
Where can I find a list of those buried in the Tahoma National Cemetery?
Gary, here is a search tool on the Department of Veteran’s Affairs website. I don’t think you can get a list per se, but you can search by name and/or dates. If I find anything else that might be helpful, I’ll be sure and post it here.
http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/j2ee/servlet/NGL_v1