A very beautiful well kept cemetery. Surrounded by the mountains and the valley, very serene. The ceremony for my husband was in September and I couldn't ask for a better day and a better place to bury him. My husband served in the navy and the pastor who conducted the service couldn't have been nicer. There were many comments on how nice the ceremony was. Thank you to all service men and women who helped me with the burial of my husband. My husband was buried with honors Sincerely, Patricia Vanlier read more

My dad, my grandpa and grandma are all buried here. The grounds are well kept and the process for my dad's burial were made easy by the front office. They also did a 21 gun salute for my dad which was really nice. Sometimes when you come in they have all the flags being flown which is pretty nice. There is also a Korean War memorial wall with my other grandmas brother's name on it that I found. He passed away in combat and it was really touching to see his name on the memorial all these years later he was not forgotten. I'm sure my grandma would have loved that. read more

San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Gustine, California

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Went there recently for a funeral of a veteran they didn't do the 21 gun salute we don't know why because I saw another review saying they did it for someone elses loved one and we were kind of upset about that but they did fold the flag and give a certificate 2 army men were there to do it and I'm kind of irritated about the fact they told us to get there 15mins early and we were waiting in the hot sun for like 30-40mins it was so hot and we had a bunch of elderly people who had to wait outside other than that it was beautiful it just felt like they didn't care about honoring him as a veteran idk if they wanted his wife to pay more for the 21 gun salute but my boyfriend was pretty upset because that was his fathers service and he wanted him to have a proper send off his father had been awarded multiple medals/awards back in the day idk why it was like that though it was a beautiful place though sorry about the long rant I am just upset my boyfriend was upset and it was wayyyy to hot outside to have us all waiting out there for so long read more

I guess saying it's a nice place to visit would be the wrong words, since it is a cemetery. We've driven by here on the I-5 for years, we always thought this was a memorial for Korean War Veterans not an actual cemetery. We were a little surprised. But the memorial part was very nice. Grateful to all veterans who have served past, present and future. read more

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Going to a National Cemetery to visit loved ones is pretty traumatic in itself...BUT...this place takes such good care of the grounds that instead of a sad place it truly is an oasis! They keep the lawn in excellent condition and it is about four inches above the grave markers. I know where my parents are spending eternity, but their earthly bodies are resting in a great place. We live quite a ways away and usually dine at Pea Soup Anderson after our visit. We used one of their banquet rooms for each parent after their gravesite ceremonies. Great place to gather. During Covid they have set up outside dining. read more

Such an honor to have my grandfather buried here. The ceremony that took place was absolutely beautiful and the location was great. The cemetery is in Santa Nella and right near the mountains. Nice backdrop but a little bit on the windy side...so bring a light sweater (and a hair clip for us longed-hair ladies). You can tell the men performing the ceremony really take pride it what they do and gave the upmost respect to my family. It was definitely a comforting moment to experience and I'm sure really made my grandfather proud. read more

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I went here yesterday for a service for a one time co worker. I attended with 3 other retirees from the same occupation as the deceased. Three of the gents are in Their 80's , and one is 90. None of us knew what to expect. So, being the last car in the procession, we were quite a ways from the site. The 80th are olds and I made it, however the 90 year old couldn't make the walk. An employee was asked if there was a golf cart that could deliver him . There was an occupied one sitting at the site. The employee said they don't have them. This 90 year old had no choice but to sit in the car in a 92d day. He had traveled an hour to attend. I am just angry that he couldn't be helped to the site of the service. He should not have been left behind . read more

My father-in-law, Dan C. Barksdale Sr, is interned here. Dan was an Army man. He was in the calvery back when they rode horses from Monterey to Salinas. He ended his Army career serving in Korea. He rest here among the dry, steep rolling hill area of the California valley near Santa Nella. Sparse native oaks and almond orchards characterize the surrounding landscape. Native grasses grow for ground cover in the burial areas. The California Korean War Veterans Memorial was dedicated Aug. 1, 1998. The memorial is a composition of 16 individual granite five-foot monoliths arranged to form a circle. Each monolith contains the names of 2,495 Californians who gave their life fighting in the Korean War. The memorial was sponsored by a number of veteran service organizations, individuals and corporations. The 11th Airborne Memorial is a granite and bronze monument that was dedicated on May 11, 2002, in honor of all airborne soldiers. The sculptor was William Porteus, a member of the 511th unit. back to top Dan loved California and he picked this spot for his final rest. read more

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Saw the sign for Korean War Veteran Memorial as I was exiting for Pea Soup Andersen. This is a war memorial for California Korean War Veterans with names of soldiers who perished. World may call Korean War a forgotten war, but as a Korean descent, we've never forgotten all the heros who have defended Korea and always grateful for their sacrifices. Without their services, Korea would not be a country it is now. Thank you. We will never forget. read more

Both of my grandparents are buried here. It's a beautiful lush landscape that feels calming to visit. The location is very easy to get to, in fact almost every time I am headed to Los Angeles from my home in east bay, I make a pit stop here to pay my respects. The Staff/volunteers have taken extra care to make sure all details from the service held the day of burial to the headstones are put through accordingly and the grounds kept up. Miss you Grandpa! and grams. read more

After doing a hike in the area we went to San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery with a Korean War Memorial. It's off I-5, about 10 min off the freeway. We saw the statue dedicated to "The Airborne Soldier" right after you enter the cemetery. Then we drove up to where the flag is. It's a nice viewpoint where you can see the area, the reservoir, & where the Korean War Memorial is. We then drove back down & parked on the side of the road next to the Memorial Path. Did a short walk & took a bunch of pictures. Nice pond, reflective pools, blooming almond trees, & the Korean War Memorial - nice poem there. Worth about 30 minutes to look around if you're in the area. read more

This place is absolutely beautiful!! Obviously it's never a good day when you have to visit a cemetery. Recently my wife's grandfather passed away, and being that he was a war veteran, he had his spot picked out at this place. From the time we drove up until the time we left, it felt very welcoming and warm. The staff is very helpful and understanding. It really made the day go by easier. Her grandfather happened to get full Military honors, with a gun salute and all. It really was a great day overall. read more

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On October 14th 2020 My sisters and I finally got to lay my parents to rest, here at NCA, upon arrival and never been here we were greeted by Daniel he was amazing and so I want to say thank you so very much for all the help you gave to me and my family. I could not have been more moved, by his generosity, having people like Daniel made it go so perfect. My sisters and I now have some where to go and visit our parents. Thank you read more

I expected less and GOT SO MUCH MORE. SPRING 2006: Rolling hills, winds blowing through fields of tall green grass during the quiet moments, and my WWII code name "Ivory Soap" Pacific Theater father's ashes were given great honor. I expected only a boom-box for music and that would have been fine. Yet, my father was honored with a bugle being played. Shots were fired. All by live people. His flag was folded and given to me on bended knee. I have not unfurled it since. I wrote a letter thanking those who carried out the ceremony as it was so beautiful and memorable. I could not have been more impressed by how I was treated and how the ceremony was executed. My father's ashes are at rest with his watch. Recently I went to the SJ VA Cemetery web-site and easily found where he is interred since it is done after the ceremony. Seven years later and I am still left with such a wonderful memory. read more

Though my father never saw this cemetery, he knew that this is where he wanted to be laid to rest. He served in the Army a short time in his youth, but was very proud to do so. So when the time came unexpectedly, we knew that we had to fulfill his wishes and bring him to San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, even though we would prefer that he be closer to us in Fresno. It is a beautiful and serene place; the staff there very caring and professional. Daddy, I hope you like it there . . . mom remembered where you wanted to be. read more

Both my Father and Mother in laws are buried here. I had never been to the cemetery until the day of the service for my mother in law which was held on a blistering hot August day in 2001. My first reaction was that this is a hell hole not fit for honoring those who served our country and was our governments way of cutting costs by using land an hour away from the bay area. The parched ground, native grasses and occasional rattle snake seemed to be so far removed from the visions of peace, serenity and hallowed grounds of Arlington and Colma that I had a real hard time accepting the feeling of these folks being "dumped" in such a place. As time has gone by, I have been back many, many times and although I still am not a peace with everything yet, I have experienced the Memorial day event there and was moved by the efforts of the staff and volunteers to honor those interned. Having moved away a few years ago, I only am able to go a couple of times per year and am beginning to notice a transformation that you really only get to notice by having been away for some time. The grounds are being planted with grass, subtle changes to the memorials and the reflecting pond (maybe it was that way all along and I just did not notice) and with my last visit a week ago I found myself actually thinking that this may just end up being a picturesque and possibly fitting final resting place. The serenity is becoming apparent and as soon as my in laws have their area replanted, I may just come to accept this place. It will never be an Arlington but it may be ok. read more

Came here to bury my grandfather a WWII vet, he fought in the pacific, silver star (x2) and purple heart recipient. He is/was an awesome man, always used to tell me life was rough, but to find someone who could cook so I was always having good food. The cemetery is a pretty place, out of the way but appropriate for our veterans, gorgeous place to be laid to rest. The honor guard was made up of veterans as well, very appropriate. read more

I've been researching my family genealogy. While looking for info for cemetery records I found this Yelp page. If you're looking for lists of burials, I found the entire list for this cemetery and all of the cemeteries I was researching here: http://interment.net/data/us/ca/merced/sanjonat/index.htm read more

It is usually the Marine reservist, like myself, who live in the area, that make up a Marine Honor Guard. Marines always bury our own. I had the privilege of doing several ceremonies for my fellow Marines. (They passed away from natural causes after a long life) I love the uniqueness of this hallowed ground. Those golden hills represent our state and our warriors perfectly. It is far from the hustle and bustle of the busy metro areas. It gives a person time to reflect on the way there and back. read more

I don't care how nice they are or how lovely the grounds are, because limiting to 10 people in a wide open space is beyond idiotic. There is plenty of room to have more people attend without being too close. This is not a time for people who are already devastated to be treated like this. Seeing as how I now have no more parents to bury, I don't ever want anything to do with this place again. read more

It's a nice enough place. Very peaceful and pleasant both times we were there. Unfortunately the military personnel provided for my dad's service forgot his name and got his rank wrong. Then the men doing the three round rifle solute appeared to take aim almost at the mourners. A bit of a scare right then. Everyone was very respectful and the flag folding ceremony was quite nice. Sadly, they decided to run their Memorial Day service as if it were a Christian church. More attention was given to making this a religious service than a commemoration of those who served their country. read more

I would to know why there wasn't any flags on the sites of our men and women on Memorial day! The only plots that had flags were ones that had family visit that day. I think this is very sad and very disresptful to our service men and women!!! read more

I remember stopping by on my way home to Los Angeles and I was deeply moved by the vast sense of tranquility and solitude found at this intimate cemetery. If you're ever on the 5 freeway headed to or from Northern California, this is a beautiful place to reflect and remember. read more

My husband and I both have family buried here and I couldn't think of a more beautiful place to be buried. You definitely do not have to know anyone buried here to make a special stop here. The grounds are so beautiful and there is a vista point that overlooks the cemetary and the valley. It has the most amazing view. It is so peaceful here. Also, every Memorial Day they have a ceremony for the public. Sometimes they have military vehicles to tour and there are always great Veteran speakers. It is great way to show your children what Memorial Day is really about. We go with my grandfather every year. I think it really shows the Veterans how much they still mean to us. In the winter the surrounding hills are a beautiful green. It is right off of I-5 so it's an easy detour on a long trip. read more

It's a hauntingly beautiful place in a desolate landscape which is fitting for a solemn event like a funeral or reflecting on the loss of a loved one or loved ones. If you go to the top of the hill where the flag pole is perched, there is an amazing view of the whole valley and the San Luis Reservoir. I imagine it's very pretty in spring. The staff and the volunteers were very respectful and my parents were buried with the honor and dignity they deserved. read more

The websites states that after being halted last March due to Covid, "committal service" resumed. FALSE. Make all necessary calls before you arrive, there is no internet service there, correction, employees in building have internet but no wifi for guests. Office door is locked and no signage to specify manner of contact with admin. There is no cell phone service (periodically a bar popped up). What is most outstandingly bad in my opinion is NO committal service, that is, no burial graveside blessing at all. No Chaplain. We were told NO graveside service AT ALL (nor flowers) because Covid risk to gravediggers. There was a shaded sitting area and flag folding, "You have 10 minutes for any last words." We were attacked by flies, they need to hang fly traps. We were directed to wait for diggers to do burial, after which, we could then go to grave. I was shocked, dumbfounded. This has broken my heart. Had I known, I would have paid the thousands of dollars to put my loved one in the cemetery closer to home with a graveside burial blessings and flowers he should have had. Our vets deserve better. read more

I have two in-laws buried here. The cemetery is big and nice and relaxing. There's nice landscaping by the administration building and the courtyard below. Before to know where your loved ones are buried, because the cemetery is confusing and the markings aren't that great. read more

On the very long car trip, north on HWY 99 from Southern California to attend a wedding in Chico, CA we saw a small blue highway sign indicating the Korean War Memorial. None of us had heard of it, including my Marine friend, so we took the detour. It was a summer day in the San Joaquin Valley so it was hot and the hills were brown. We almost turned around on the access road, but we were rewarded with our patience. It is a quiet area, not beautiful in the summer, but peaceful. My Marine friend served in the trenches of Korea and had a "Buddy" shot and killed right next to him. We searched the granite columns of the 2,495 brave men that gave us our freedom and were able to locate the name of my Marine's friend. It was very emotional for all of us, but especially for him. To this day there will be a movie, a song or a picture and my friend will be over come with emotion. No one wins in a war. We will make it a planned stop on our next trip up HWY99. I thank every one of those 2,495 brave soldiers, sailors and marines. Elaine, Long Beach, CA read more

Had the privilege to visit this hallowed ground yesterday 10/17/2010. My brother has been interred their for over 10 yrs. My mother/father were recently placed, this past month. My fathers wish was for him, his wife of 60 yrs be placed there. The area is divided up between those who are traditionally buried and those who choose to be cremated. It can be a bit confusing when your trying to locate the resting place of those who have served and are loved. Was able to locate all my family members. My only wish would of been for all of my family member to be together. As a matter of course they cannot exhume family members, placing them in "family" plots. I've watched this cemetery evolve, it continually gets better. Grass is now laid in among grave markers. It is a peaceful place even when the wind blows. It sits slightly above the valley floor. Stay long enough you will feel the spirits of those who have served and gone before us...enjoy the time...feel their presence, they will always be their for you. read more

Very beautiful cemetery. At 4pm they had bells ringing from the top hill with beautiful songs. Green grass, fountains and very peaceful, away from the freeway, among peaceful hills. Very respectful and feels very hallowed and I am glad my Dad rests here. I miss you, Dad, and still cry when I think of you being gone. You are irreplaceable and very beloved. I come here on my Dad's birthday and his death day. An Army man in WW2. read more

Absolutely beautiful ! My father just passed away & they had military honors for him since he was a vet. The ceremony was just wonderful & everyone was helpful & very kind, no wonder my dad chose this cemetery. I can feel that he is happy there. 5 stars is for sure ! read more

My father Alfredo Padillo Dejamco is interned here. My father was in the USArmy and i will be able for the first time to see this cemetery this summer. I hope i will be able to take pictures of this cemetery where he is laid to rest. read more

we recently buried my dad David G. sanchez 1st sgt in the army there.The color Guard did an amazine job.and the staff were so caring.The grounds are beautiful,i know my dad was proud serve his country and in return his country honored him as well as his fellow soldiers.On behalf of my family i would like to thank the staff,color guard and the grounds keepers..we are truly great full. WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU DAD!!!! read more

hello my father sgt myron miller fought in the korean war and was laid to rest in 1994 in a very nice well kept and respected miltary cementery, ive recently found out also that my mother who passed on to the lord a couple days ago can also be burried in her yurn on top of my dad same plot, so this well put all there kids stress levels to a rest knowing that our parents are together such a beauitful thing that the veterans alows thank you jesus for this place of rest for our dad and moether reunited and one god bless, myron jr read more