Guardians of the National Cemetery is the official support committee of Washington Crossing National Cemetery, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the sole support organization for WCNC as designated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.   The Honor Guard is a team of veterans whose commitment to honoring those who served is unwavering. They are present for every veteran interment, performing ceremonial rifle volleys and, on select occasions, folding and presenting the American flag to families. Every tribute reflects the dignity, respect, and gratitude our veterans deserve. Supported by the Guardians, the Honor Guard carries out this sacred mission with precision, pride, and the highest standards of military tradition, ensuring that the legacy of our nation’s heroes is preserved.

The Guardians-Honor Guard is 1 of only 3 dedicated teams in the country with this level of commitment, providing consistent military honors Monday through Friday. Only two other veteran cemeteries offer this type of dedicated support, as most rely on Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) to piece together Honor Guard teams. Comprised entirely of veteran volunteers, our members serve exclusively in support of Washington Crossing National Cemetery. They provide military honors at EVERY veteran’s funeral, in ALL types of weather, ensuring each service member is recognized with dignity and respect. We are a registered 501(c)(3) support organization committed to this mission.

The Guardians are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated solely to supporting Washington Crossing National Cemetery.  While Veterans Service Organizations (VSO's) assist veterans and their families with benefits and VA services, our Guardians Honor Guard is an independent team of veteran volunteers who serve exclusively to support the missions at WCNC, providing professional military honors for every veteran laid to rest at the cemetery.  Many members bring experience from other VSO's, but their service with the Guardians is focused entirely on honoring those laid to rest at WCNC.

No. While some members may have connections to other veteran organizations, our Honor Guard is entirely independent. Members volunteer directly with the Guardians Honor Guard to provide military honors only at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

No. Wreaths Across America is a completely separate nonprofit with its own programs and mission. The Guardians of the National Cemetery are an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated solely to supporting Washington Crossing National Cemetery. We have no affiliation with, oversight of, or connection to Wreaths Across America.

No. The Guardians of the National Cemetery are an independent, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are not employed by the cemetery or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The cemetery is operated by the VA’s National Cemetery Administration, and the Guardians are officially sanctioned by the VA to support cemetery operations. We work alongside cemetery staff to support ceremonies, beautification efforts, and educational programs, partnering with them to honor veterans and their families while remaining a separate organization.

No. Our Honor Guard is made up entirely of volunteer veterans. They provide military honors for every veteran laid to rest, ensuring each receives the recognition and honor they deserve on their final journey.

Volunteers help with the placement and removal of the Avenue of Flags for Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.  Attend monthly Unaccompanied Services on the last Thursday of the month from January to October, following the 1:30 service. Help with beautification projects, educational programs, and community outreach.  You do not need to be a veteran to volunteer.

The Unaccompanied Service is a ceremony held for veterans who were laid to rest without family or friends present. It is held on the last Thursday of each month from January through October. During the service, the veteran’s name, rank, and branch of service are read aloud, a flag is presented, a rifle salute is performed, and “Taps” is played. Members of the public are encouraged to attend to ensure no veteran is forgotten and that they receive the recognition and honor they deserve.

The Unaccompanied Service, sponsored by the Guardians, honors veterans with no next of kin present. During the ceremony, a selected volunteer receives the folded flag on the veteran’s behalf as a symbolic act of remembrance. This solemn tradition ensures every service member is remembered with dignity, gratitude, and respect. The flag is then flown as part of our Avenue of Flags during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, carrying their legacy forward in our shared remembrance.

Yes. The Guardians of the National Cemetery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our EIN is 26-2587955. Online donations will automatically generate a letter for your tax records, and if you donate by check, we are happy to mail a letter for your records upon request. We are deeply grateful that you are considering supporting this important mission to honor those who served our country with courage and sacrifice.