BIG SPRING — The Veterans Land Board (VLB) has previously contracted with a vendor to conduct the day to day operations of our four Texas State Veterans Cemeteries. Under the direction of Commissioner Bush and our Cemetery Director Eric Brown, the Texas State Veterans Cemeteries have exponentially grown and continuously received additional grant funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs. As such, the need for improvements in daily operations has substantially increased. Ultimately, the Veterans Land Board and the former vendor could not come to an agreement on certain contract terms. After much discussion, the Vendor decided to terminate the contract, which the VLB accepted. Nearly all staff at the Texas State Veterans Cemeteries were employed by the Vendor.

The Veterans Land Board’s mission continues to be to provide the best services possible for the Veterans in the state of Texas. As we move forward, day to day operations are under the direct supervision of the Veterans Land Board. Looking to the future, we are considering contracting with local cities and counties to assist with daily operations and staffing needs. Make no mistake, continued oversight, maintenance and funding will continue to be provided by the VLB no matter who the operator for the cemeteries may be. The VLB has no plans to eliminate our role in ensuring that Texas Veterans receive the most respectful burial as their final salute is ordered. Any statement otherwise is patently false.>