R.I. Veterans Memorial Cemetery celebrates columbarium walls

EXETER, R.I. (WLNE)- A ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery Thursday afternoon, celebrating a new set of columbarium walls.

The multi-phase project is expected to build 40 walls containing 14,000 niches. A niche is an above-ground burial space that holds the ashes and urn of the deceased.

This project will allow the cemetery to offer niche inurnment services for another 50 years.

“I am forever grateful to those who served for their bravery, sacrifice and dedication,” said Governor McKee. “We must take every opportunity to thank them for their service and recognize their families as well, especially Rhode Island’s Gold Star Families, who have shown tremendous strength and continue to be an inspiration. Having a loved one serving in the military is service in and of itself. Thank you to our Veterans for what you do for us every day – you show us what selfless service really is and how we can look beyond ourselves to help others.”

The ceremony took place during the week-long Wreaths Across America observance, which express appreciation to Veterans and military members during the holiday season. The week will culminate with hundreds of wreaths being laid at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Saturday.

“Just this week we’ve seen the expansion of the Columbarium Walls, Wreaths Across America, the Heroes Tree on display in the State Room at our Rhode Island State House; all of these are vivid examples of how we come together as one Ocean State to show our gratitude for those who have served,” said Kasim J. Yarn, Director of the Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services. “In Rhode Island, we are prioritizing the needs of Veterans, active duty, guard, reservists and their families.”