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by Phillip Gaffney At Washington Crossing National Cemetery, an extraordinary group of dedicated individuals ensures that no veteran is ever laid to rest without the honors they deserve. The Guardians of the National Cemetery have upheld this solemn commitment since 2009, forming a steadfast honor guard that provides full military honors to those who served. Unlike most national cemeteries, where local veterans’ groups provide occasional services, Washington Crossing Nationa

by Phillip Gaffney On January 18, 2025, the Guardians of the National Cemetery proudly marked their 15th Anniversary with a commemorative banquet held at the Warrington Inn Country Club. This significant milestone brought together original members, current leaders, and dedicated volunteers to reflect on a decade and a half of unwavering service and commitment to our nation’s veterans. A Legacy of Service Since its founding in 2010, the Guardians of the National Cemetery have

by Phillip Gaffney On November 11th, 2024, the Guardians of the National Cemetery gathered at Washington Crossing National Cemetery to honor and remember the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. The day was marked by solemn ceremonies, heartfelt tributes, and a shared commitment to preserving the memory of those who served. These photos capture moments of reflection, unity, and gratitude from this meaningful Veterans Day event. See all the photos here

by Phillip Gaffney It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tom Hauserman, a cherished member of the Guardians of the National Cemetery. Tom, a valued part of our Monday Honor Guard team, left us on July 1st, 2024. His contributions to our organization were immense, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the honor of knowing him. Tom served alongside Terry Schweikert, the Monday team’s Firing Party Leader, with dedication and excellence. In addi

by Phillip Gaffney On Saturday, June 1st, 2024, the Guardians of the National Cemetery had the honor of providing an honor guard for a poignant event dedicated to honoring our veterans. This solemn occasion was a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have served our nation with unwavering dedication and bravery. The ceremony began with the time-honored 21-gun salute, a powerful and resonant symbol of respect and gratitude for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. F

by Phillip Gaffney The Guardians of the National Cemetery recently participated in a deeply patriotic ceremony at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, paying tribute to the soldiers of the Revolutionary War who gave their lives for our nation’s freedom. These soldiers, though their remains are unidentified, are honored and remembered for their sacrifice and bravery. The event was a poignant reminder that the courage and dedication of these early American heroes are neither

by Phillip Gaffney Pictured above: Outgoing Commander Gene Hamilton (Right) Incoming Commander Don Tillotson (Left) The Guardians of the National Cemetery organization is built on the unwavering commitment and tireless efforts of its members, and today, we pay tribute to an extraordinary individual who has left an indelible mark on our organization: Gene Hamilton. Gene’s dedication to the Guardians of the National Cemetery has been nothing short of remarkable. Through his ye

by Phillip Gaffney It is with a heavy heart that we at the Guardians of the National Cemetery announce the passing of a cherished member of our community, John Lee. John’s dedication and unwavering commitment to honoring our veterans were deeply admired by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. As we share in this collective moment of mourning, we invite you to join us in celebrating John’s profound contributions. His efforts have left an indelible mark on our or

by Phillip Gaffney Sun, Rain or Snow, the Guardians will always honor our veterans faithfully.

by Phillip Gaffney The Month of of May 2023 has been very active for the Guardians. These are the activities that have taken place in behalf of remembering our veterans. May 3rd, 2023 A two person team participated in educating the NJ Civil Air Patrol in Flag etiquette and proper flag folding to prepare these young cadets for a national competition they will be participating in June of 2023. Good luck to these cadets. May 13, 2023 Veterans Appreciation & Forces Muster – Br

by Phillip Gaffney Greetings: The Guardians of the National Cemetery will dedicate and gift the statue of General George Washington to the National Cemetery Administration on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 11:00 AM sharp. General parking will be at Committal Shelter #1, in reverse order (enter through the exit and exit through the entrance lanes). Handicapped parking will be available at Columbarium “B”, also in reverse order. Golf cart transport to the seating area from handic

by Phillip Gaffney The unveiling of the George Washington Memorial Statue will take place Saturday May 20, 2023 at 11:00am at the Washington Crossing National Cemetery. All are welcome. Please consider making a donation to this project since no Government Funds will be used for this project, Here is the secure link to make safe donation and be a part of history.

by Phillip Gaffney Recently, Channel Six Action News ran a news piece about veterans that passed that not only have no family members available to honor their service but their remains have never been claimed. This video does great honor to those veterans that are not forgotten.

by Phillip Gaffney Watch the video below to learn more about the Guardian’s fundraising efforts to build and install a George Washington Memorial Statue. CLICK HERE

by Phillip Gaffney This months unattended service was well attended. In attendance was Twin Pine Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary. This group of fine cadets, based at the Trenton Mercer County Airport, was led by Captain Robert McClellan and Lt. Col Yull. See images here

by Phillip Gaffney Imagine if you will a veteran passing away and there is no one to call. No one to grieve, no one to receive the flag the veteran earned. All Veterans should receive their recognition for serving our country. Many enlisted while others drafted. In ether case they made the selfless decision to serve us and our country. Is it too much to say thank you and we understand their sacrifice. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is required, by law, to ensure d

by Phillip Gaffney The June “Unattended Service” at Washington Crossing National Cemetery will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, June 30, 2022. At that time the remains of 10 Veterans who have been unclaimed in the Montgomery County, PA Coroner’s Office will be interred. Please feel free to join us to show these Veterans the honor and respect they deserve for their service to our country. CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS

by Phillip Gaffney On Saturday, June 18, 2022, members of the Washington Crossing Honor Guard (WCHG) traveled to Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) at the invitation of the Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (SHGTUS). The WCHG witnessed the Changing of the Guard and members were able to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The WCHG members then had the distinct pleasure of a briefing by an on-duty Tomb Guard that lasted approximately 30 minu

by Phillip Gaffney In preparation for Memorial Day 2022, approximately 70 volunteers from the Travis Manion Foundation, the local community, and the Guardians of the National Cemetery gathered to complete the Avenue of Flags before Veterans Day 2022. Students of the Middle bucks Institute of Technology along with the Travis Manion Foundation and the Guardians of the National Cemetery worked on phase II of the Never Forget Garden. This work included the creation of a rock gard

by Phillip Gaffney March 29th, 2022 Commander Gene Hamilton recognized members of the Washington Crossing Honor guard that were active duty during the Vietnam era.