In the quiet outskirts of Corpus Christi, Texas, a final resting place for thousands of America’s veterans has been steadily growing since 2011. The Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, nestled along Interstate 37, represents both a solemn tribute and a practical necessity for the region’s military community.
A Growing Memorial
The 30-acre cemetery, which officially opened its gates on December 14, 2011, was designed with a clear purpose: to serve approximately 50,000 veterans across a 15-county region of South Texas. Currently home to 2,650 veteran graves, the site operates under a master plan that will eventually accommodate up to 31,500 gravesites over a 40-year period, according to cemetery records documented by historical preservation groups.
What makes this particular cemetery significant? Built and operated by the Texas Veterans Land Board, the Coastal Bend facility represents Texas’ fourth state veterans cemetery, situated on a generous 55-acre parcel just outside Corpus Christi’s northwestern city limits, as detailed by The LA Group, which was involved in the cemetery’s development.
The cemetery has become an important fixture for military families in the region. Each December, it participates in the national Wreaths Across America program, with volunteers working to place a wreath on each of the 2,650 graves — a number that continues to grow as more veterans are laid to rest, the organization confirms.
Location and Administration
Situated at 9974 IH 37 Access Road, the cemetery provides a peaceful setting away from the bustle of downtown Corpus Christi. It’s easily accessible via Interstate 37, making it convenient for families visiting from throughout the 15-county service area, as indicated by location services.
Day-to-day operations fall under Cemetery Director Alfredo Medina, who can be reached at 361-248-4830. The cemetery is one of several VA grant-funded veterans cemeteries in Texas, operating under the oversight of the Texas General Land Office, as listed by the Department of Veterans Affairs cemetery directory.
Families seeking information about interment options needn’t worry about space limitations. Despite serving the community for over a decade, the cemetery still maintains open burial space, ensuring that veterans from the Coastal Bend region will continue to have this option for decades to come.
Looking Forward
How long will the cemetery continue to serve the region’s veterans? With its carefully planned expansion strategy, officials expect the grounds to accommodate veterans’ needs for at least four decades. The Texas General Land Office, which oversees the cemetery, continues to maintain the grounds as a dignified memorial to those who served.
For the thousands of veterans’ families in South Texas, the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery has become more than just a burial ground — it’s a permanent tribute to service and sacrifice, ensuring that the legacy of local veterans will be honored for generations to come.
