Advisory Committee on Arlington National Cemetery

The Advisory Committee on Arlington National Cemetery, established by Federal Advisory Commission Charter in October 2010, provides independent advice and serves to protect the interest of veterans and surviving family members as well as the public for the operation and strategic planning for future development of Arlington National Cemetery and the Soldier’s and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery as part of the Army National Cemeteries Program. Receiving advice and recommendations from a diverse range of experts will greatly improve the Executive Director and the Army’s ability and effectiveness to operate and support these national cemeteries.

The Committee is composed of not more than nine members who are eminent authorities in the fields of national defense, veterans’ affairs and surviving family member issues.

The Committee members are appointed by the Secretary of Defense, and their appointments will be renewed on an annual basis. Those members, who are not full-time or permanent part-time federal officers or employees, shall be appointed as experts and consultants under the authority of 5 U.S.C. § 3109 and shall serve as special government employees. The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of the Army, shall select the Committee co-chairs.

The Committee's mission is to provide the Secretary of Defense, through the Secretary of the Army, independent advice and recommendations, with respect to the administration of Arlington National Cemetery, the erection of memorials at the cemetery, and master planning for the cemetery.