GEORGIA
Georgia National Cemetery
The Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia, is a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs cemetery established in 2006 on about 775 acres. It serves as a major final resting place for U.S. veterans and eligible family members across the Southeast.
Today, it holds approximately 25,000 veterans and family members from World War II to recent conflicts. The cemetery is designed as a peaceful, park-like setting where full military honors—including flag presentations, rifle volleys, and “Taps”—are rendered for each service member.
In recognition of this legacy, the Patriot Soil Project has collected soil from more than 500 military resting places and presented the “Salute of Honor” to all, honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans.
Marietta National Cemetery
Marietta National Cemetery, located in Marietta, Georgia, is one of the most significant veterans’ burial grounds in the southeastern United States. Established in 1866 shortly after the Civil War, it was created to honor Union soldiers who died during the Atlanta Campaign of 1864. Many of these soldiers were interred here from scattered battlefield graves, bringing them together in a single, dignified resting place. Today, the cemetery holds more than 17,000 interments, including thousands of unknown soldiers, representing veterans from the Civil War through modern conflicts.
Covering about 23 acres, the cemetery is maintained by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and remains an active memorial site, though new burials are now limited. Its orderly rows of white headstones and peaceful landscape reflect the traditional design of national cemeteries. A defining feature is the stone entrance archway, built in 1883, which stands as a lasting symbol of honor and remembrance. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Marietta National Cemetery continues to serve as a place of reflection and tribute to America’s veterans and their enduring legacy of service.
As part of the Patriot Soil Project, a small sample of soil was respectfully collected from more than 1,500 veteran resting places, including Marietta National Cemetery, to help preserve and honor the legacy of those who served. During each cemetery visit across the nation, Gary presents the “Salute of Honor,” a consistent tribute recognizing and honoring all who served, ensuring every veteran resting place is acknowledged with respect and gratitude.
