Barstow, Calif. — [Nov. 5, 2026] — As part of Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation’s (YSMN) ongoing commitment to investing in the communities they serve, the Tribe is contributing $370,000 to support the restoration, beautification and long-term sustainability of the veterans’ section at the Barstow Cemetery District, also known as Mt. View Memorial Park.
“This project is an important step in restoring the cemetery and represents meaningful progress for our community,” said Ashley Tarpley, General Manager of the Barstow Cemetery District. “We are grateful that Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation’s gift will allow us to adhere to water-use restrictions by transitioning to a beautiful, drought-tolerant landscape.”
The renovation includes improvements to the cemetery’s veterans’ section, where Diné (Navajo) veteran and Navajo Code Talker Nelson Draper Sr. is laid to rest. One of 228 Navajo Code Talkers who played pivotal roles in the U.S. Marine Corps’ success during World War II, Draper was recently honored at the 2026 San Manuel Pow Wow in San Bernardino, Calif., in recognition of his extraordinary military service and enduring legacy.
“For generations, the Yuhaaviatam has cared for these lands and the communities that call them home,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. “We are honored to aid in the beautification and long-term sustainability of the cemetery and honor the veterans who dedicated their lives to this country.”
The Tribe remains committed to supporting tangible impact across its Marra’yam (Serrano) ancestral territory and Indian Country. Since the early 2000s, YSMN has invested more than $500 million through its San Manuel Cares program, championing initiatives that drive meaningful change. To learn more about the Tribe’s giving program and giving pillars, visit SanManuelCares.org.
About Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. The Tribe, formerly known as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, proudly reclaims their ancestral name—Yuhaaviatam (pronounced "yu-HAH-vee-ah-tahm")— honoring the deep-rooted heritage and enduring legacy of their people. Exercising their inherent sovereign right to self-governance, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is committed to providing essential services to their citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development.
As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Yuhaaviatam have called this region home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region.
For more information, visit Sanmanuel-NSN.gov
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