Indy Standard

The Indiana General Assembly has unanimously passed legislation to support the Veterans National Memorial Shrine and Museum (VNMSM) in Fort Wayne. The legislation was sponsored by State Representative Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) and authored by State Senator Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne). The focus of this legislative support is to assist the VNMSM in establishing a columbarium to honor fallen Hoosier veterans.

The board of the VNMSM plans to install the columbarium, which is designed to store cremation urns and personal mementos, but faced a financial hurdle due to a state requirement mandating a $100,000 deposit into a cemetery perpetual care fund. This is aimed at ensuring the long-term protection and maintenance of the remains. To address this, the board sought the help of Carbaugh.

“Our goal is to honor and respect Hoosier veterans by making sure their final resting places are maintained with care,” said Carbaugh. "Senate Enrolled Act 520 will provide a sustainable funding structure for these sacred spaces so that the Veterans National Memorial Shrine and Museum can continue to give dignified resting places for those who have served our country."

According to Busch, Senate Enrolled Act 520, will waive the upfront deposit fee for the Fort Wayne-based nonprofit. “The Veterans National Memorial Shrine and Museum always goes above and beyond to ensure veterans are honored at the highest level possible. This bill will eliminate the financial burden that has prevented the organization from proceeding with their efforts to establish an esteemed resting place honoring Hoosier veterans,” Busch stated.

The legislation, Senate Enrolled Act 520, is tailored to waive the state's deposit requirement for the VNMSM, with niche sales proceeds dedicated to a trust fund for ongoing care of the structure. The columbarium, comprised of three pieces, will feature 157 niches available to veterans exclusively.

Busch noted, "The 40-acre site features memorials, monuments, and a museum, serving as a tribute to servicemembers from past conflicts." The museum, expanded over 6,000 square feet, displays over 2,000 artifacts from American wars. Features include a Korean War Memorial and a scaled-down Vietnam Memorial Wall replica, attracting visitors nationwide.

Senate Enrolled Act 520 now awaits the governor's approval. For more information or to watch legislative sessions, visit iga.in.gov.