Golden Gate National Cemetery — Attraction in San Bruno

My great grandfather Colonel Newton Wesley Armstrong received military honors, he was a civic leader, dean of southern Alameda county historians. Credited as “ The man who put San Leandro on the map,”. He served as a colonel in the United States army during the Mexican war, had a Long career with the military. He took part in the formation of the California National Guard and was called to active duty in World War I. In World War II he was on the staff of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and helped map the invasion of Normandy. Between Wars as a member of the US Army reserve organization, Colonel Armstrong was active in civic affairs of Alameda County and San Leandro Cherry festivals. Always active in civil affairs and the colonel served as the San Leandro Library Board in 1953, and the cities planning commission for a year between 1957-58. Born in San Lorenzo, the colonel was a charter member of both the Hayward area historical Society and the Hayward veterans club. A few years ago we took a trip to the cemetery, for me it was a breathtaking view of all who have served and died for our country, I never did meet my great grandfather but he sure did seem like an interesting person from all the stories my...

On this coming 4th of July, I reflect on how much has been lost and gained in the United States, and so I sit and reflect at the places that mean so much to me.

Coming from a military family, I hope the lessons learned make us pause and think. So here we stand, my wife and I in the middle of the golden gate national cemetery.

Here we visit, and we ponder the course of this nation. We visit what I call the "brass ridge". Here there are so many generals and admirals buried here, but not forgotten. As we walk through the greens and we stop at the tombstones of prominent and historical figures, I hear in the wind honor me, but remember the soldiers, sailors, Marines, Air force veterans that surround me and served this nation also. These were our men under our command.

Like Gettysburg, Manassas, Shiloh, the Alamo, Arlington and the national cemetery of the Pacific that I have visited. I remember with awe and wonder.

Another solemn place to visit. Moving to the soul...

I've been visiting the cemetery since I was born. Now I have two family members here. This cemetery is a heart warming place to visit and see all the men and women whom gave there lives to defend America. Yes it's sad to lose the ones we Love, look at it my way. Thay are in a much better place. Out of pain, no wars to Fight, they are at peace now. Thay are watching over us. It hurts me to come here but I have to. My GrandFather is here and my GrandMither is with him here. I will be with them Memorial day. I honor all Soldiers that have and are fighting...