AUSTIN, TX - Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Chairman of the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), George P. Bush, announced that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded a grant of $1,520,470 to the Veterans Land Board for expansion and improvements to the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas.

The grant will fund the construction of 1,400 columbarium niches, a memorial wall, signage, irrigation, landscaping and supporting infrastructure on approximately two acres, enabling the cemetery to provide continued service for approximately 39,722 Veterans and their eligible family members.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery is the final resting place for the brave men and women who served our country in the Armed Forces and some who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our freedom. I appreciate Commissioner George P. Bush and his staff for securing this grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is important to honor all soldiers who answer the call to duty and sacrifice their lives. The cemetery is currently equipped for 25,000 veterans and their families and this grant will expand capacity to nearly 40,000. It will also add a memorial wall to further honor our veterans."

###