West Point Cadets Volunteer at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery

The West Point cross country team recently visited New Hampshire as part of their physical training in preparation for the upcoming season. During their stay, the cadets inquired about a local community service project they could participate in.

Granite United Way connected the West Point team with the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, a project that offered them a chance to honor the legacy of the countless veterans who have served our nation.

Sean Buck, the Director of the Cemetery, expressed his excitement at hosting the cadets. "West Point trains our future leaders," Buck noted, emphasizing the value of volunteerism. “We have a small team of 5 employees and volunteers are essential to keeping the cemetary in pristine condition for all who visit.”

The New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, like Arlington and other veterans' cemeteries nationwide, offers free internment for veterans and their families as a testament to their service. Supporting the cemetery goes beyond maintaining its pristine condition. Buck encourages public participation in events throughout the year, such as placing flags on graves before Memorial Day.

The West Point cadets helped to prune trees, maintain flower beds, and beautify the burial grounds, ensuring that the cemetery remains a dignified resting place for veterans.

"Volunteerism is the reason why I went to West Point," Michael Alvarez, one of the cadets shared. "I wanted to give back to my community." His words echo the sentiment of many West Point cadets who see service as a core value and a way to honor those who came before them.

Claire Lewis, another cadet, highlighted West Point's commitment to service. "Each summer, hundreds of cadets embark on volunteer missions like this across the United States and abroad." she said. "This volunteer project is especially meaningful to us all becuase every single person that's buried here gave something to our country. We want to make sure we honor their legacy by making it look as clean and pristine as possible."

Granite United Way offers a variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the year.

Click here to find a project in your local community!

If your workplace would like to create a customized volunteer opportunity for your staff or your nonprofit would like to be connected to volunteers in your community email volunteer@granitwuw.org.