Wisconsin's commitment to honoring its veterans is securing a solemn promise for the future, with Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) confirming nearly $2 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This funding treasure chest will to bolster two of the state’s Veteran Memorial Cemeteries—ushering in enhancements to ensure these sacred grounds can provide honor and respect to veterans for generations to come, according to the State of Wisconsin Office of the Governor.
In a statement obtained by the State of Wisconsin Office of the Governor, Gov. Evers shared, “Wisconsin’s veterans have served our state and country bravely, and it’s only right that when they are laid to rest, they continue to receive the honor and respect they’ve fought for.” The Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King will spark renewal with $982,675, adding 1,100 new in-ground cremains gravesites and landscaping upgrades, while the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery (SWVMC) in Union Grove will see $931,500 channeled into infrastructure improvements.
DVA Secretary James Bond highlighted the importance of these sanctuaries, stating, “Caring for our veterans cemeteries is a solemn duty, and I’m grateful for Gov. Evers’ support and the dedicated employees who ensure every veteran is laid to rest with dignity,” as stated by the State of Wisconsin Office of the Governor. The Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery boasts a rich history dating back to 1888, currently hosting nearly 9,000 veterans and their families, whereas the SWVMC, a younger but most active site, has catered to over 18,500 interments since 1996.
Yet, the story doesn't end there. The Evers administration is unyielding in its veteran-centered pursuits. The 2025-27 Biennial Budget inked by Gov. Evers earmarks a financial muster—$5 million to support veterans homes, $200,000 to improve veterans' medical transportation, and $35 million for crucial infrastructure projects, according to details from the State of Wisconsin Office of the Governor. This shows a financial muscle to ensure that Wisconsin's veterans are not just remembered but are actively cared for.
Nevertheless, it wasn't a round of unanimous applause in the state budget scene. Evers' extended plans, encompassing tax cuts, housing aid, and mental health services for veterans, were clipped by Republican budget committee members, leaving a scar on the envisioned support framework. Proposals axed include $1.9 million for veterans housing aid, $1.1 million for mental health outreach, and an ambitious tax relief plan to ease veterans' household pressures. These moves effectively shutter hopes for two of the state's three veterans homes and other critical support measures—casting shadows over the wellbeing of Wisconsin's vets, as reported by the State of Wisconsin Office of the Governor.
