Regarding federal investment in Michigan lately, a sore subject for a donor State with such high unemployment, the public usually hears about stimulus money, roads money, Great Lakes clean-up money, and auto bail-out money. Not much is said about the federal parks, forests, shorelines, marine sanctuary, and historic areas that depend on the U.S. taxpayer for sustenance. That's too bad, for it means most folks aren't focused on these vital and life-affecting environmental/cultural assets that are critical to a well-ordered society.
Today, it's fitting and appropriate to think of one other federal installation, the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly MI. Opened in 2005, the 544 acres provide a suitable final resting place for the veterans who will always merit great respect and honor. Appropriate for the Great Lakes State, the cemetery borders a lake and is located on a portion of a land grant predating the Civil War (1836).
Would not have thought of this today, except that some friends recently buried a family member there, and they recounted how inspiring the place is with its tree-lined entrance, dignified grounds, active duty personnel who assist in making the ceremony so meaningful, and the quietude that should mark such hallowed ground.
The website [GLNC] is less than impressive -- at the very least, it should contain images of the place so that those of us who likely won't/can't pay our respects could envision the place -- and it has a curious section "Notable Persons" that says "Under Development". Are we to understand that the VA takes the position that it should call attention to only certain gravesites rather than honor/note all vets? From what I understand from the military, hearkening back to the GAR, they regard each other as brothers/sisters in arms and preferred not to denigrate the service of any.
It is altogether fitting and proper to hilite the GLNC this day of all days.