SylmarRealEstateInsider

We had the best Memorial Day event ever at Pioneer Cemetery in Sylmar on May 30, when well over 400 people came to visit, pay their respects, and learn a thing or two about the Civil War.  Sponsored by the San Fernando Valley Historical Society, our heartfelt and hometown program was highlighted by re-enactors who portrayed the 5 Civil War veterans buried at Pioneer Cemetery, who also performed a 21-volley rifle salute with authentic arms of the period and blew “Taps.”  We also honored fallen local hero Marine Cpl. Julio Vargas with an engraved memorial brick in the front entrance, along with a tribute brick to the All Veterans Burial Squad.  We hope you will attend next year!

The historic San Fernando Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in Sylmar will host a free Memorial Day Observance for the public at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 30, 2011.  Sponsored by the San Fernando Valley Historical Society for the 9th consecutive year, the event will include a U.S. flag-raising and 21-volley rifle salute and “Taps” performed by the All Veteran’s Burial Squad. 

Five Civil War veterans buried at the old cemetery will be honored in a presentation about the Civil War by a Daughters of the American Revolution historian, coinciding with the national 150th anniversary observance of the Civil War.  Visitors will also be given an update on the results of the recent ground penetrating radar survey conducted to find unmarked gravesites at the cemetery. 

During the observance, the public will be invited to buy a memorial brick ($60) to help support the cemetery. A special brick will be installed in the cemetery entrance honoring Sylmar resident USMC Cpl. Julio Vargas, who perished in Afghanistan last July.

The old cemetery is located at 14451 Bledsoe St., Sylmar, at the corner of Foothill Boulevard. (Directions: From the 210 Freeway, exit at Polk Street and go south to Foothill. Turn right onto Foothill and drive a half mile to the stoplight at Bledsoe. Parking in rear of cemetery.)

For additional information, please call 818-970-1286 or visit www.sfvhs.com.