Congressman Jeff Miller and Congressman Joe Wilson attend the dedication. On Sunday, October 26, Fort Jackson held a dedication ceremony for their new national cemetery. Hundreds of residents attended, including many veterans, to celebrate the occasion.

The 282nd Army Victory Band welcomed everybody with a musical prelude before the dedication. Joe Pinner from WIS led the event as the Master of Ceremonies.

The Joint Service Color Guard presented the colors, while the 282nd Army Victory Band played the national anthem. Colonel Charles Murray, who fought in both World War II and Vietnam, led the pledge of allegiance. After the pledge of allegiance, the band played each armed service's song. During each song, those in attendance who served for the specific branch stood up to be recognized.

Guest speakers for the event included, Brigadier General Bradley May, Congressman Jeff Miller from Florida, Congressmen Joe Wilson and Congressman John Spratt, and William Tuerk, the Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs.

"It is a momentous day to dedicate this sacred ground to our nation's veterans," Brigadier General May said, "While others ran, our volunteers stood and answered the call to duty."

Mr. William Tuerk and Colonel Charles Murray hold the dedication plaque. "Veterans are who make our nations great. We cannot say thank you enough," Congressman Miller said during his speech.

Mr. William Tuerk addressed the crowd as the keynote speaker and helped unveil the new plaque that signifies the dedication of the Fort Jackson National Cemetery. The dedication was concluded with a 21 cannon salute and the playing of taps by Sergeant Graham Byrd.

The Fort Jackson National Cemetery is on 585 acres of land. Phase I, currently under construction, is 92 acres and is expected to be ready for the first burials in December of 2008. Eleven members make up the staff that will maintain the cemetery.