ARLINGTON, Va. – Army National Military Cemeteries (ANMC) is pleased to announce the arrival of John G. Knapp as its new Superintendent. Knapp brings a wealth of experience, most recently serving as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration’s Deputy Director of Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, and its satellite, Bay Pines National Cemetery in St. Petersburg, Florida.
“It is our solemn duty to care for Arlington National Cemetery and all who are laid to rest here. We are thrilled to welcome a leader who understands the profound significance of these hallowed grounds and possesses the qualities needed to guide the cemetery forward in serving our nation’s heroes and their families,” said Army National Military Cemeteries and Office of Army Cemeteries Executive Director Karen Durham-Aguilera.
Appointed to the Senior Executive Service in July 2025, Knapp has more than 45 years of combined military and federal service, including a decade of cemetery operational experience and leadership roles at several of the nation’s largest and busiest national cemeteries. He retired from the U.S. Marine Corps at the rank of lieutenant colonel, having served in both active and reserve components of the U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Marine Corps.
“As I step into the role of Superintendent, I am filled with a deep sense of honor and responsibility. I am particularly looking forward to being part of preserving and honoring the legacies of the brave men and women who served our nation, ensuring that their sacrifices are remembered,” said Knapp.
As Superintendent, Knapp will provide expert direction over all aspects of the daily administration, operations and maintenance of Army National Military Cemeteries, consisting of Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, and the Soldiers’ and Airmen’s’ Home National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. He will be responsible for the care and maintenance of over 650 acres, more than 5,000 annual funeral services, the visitor experience of approximately three million annual visitors, over 200 civilian and military employees and an annual operation budget of $100 million.
Knapp holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, an MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Oklahoma University.
###