History of Corozal American Cemetery

Background

ABMC assumed responsibility for the care and maintenance of the Corozal American Cemetery in Panama in 1982.

At this 16-acre cemetery are interred more than 5,600 American veterans and others. A small memorial sits atop a knoll overlooking the graves area. The memorial consists of a paved plaza with a 12-foot rectangular granite obelisk flanked by two flagpoles on which fly the U.S. and Panamanian flags. Engraved on the obelisk in English and Spanish is the following inscription:

This memorial has been erected by the
United States of America
in humble tribute to all interred here
who served in its Armed Forces or
contributed to the construction,
operation and maintenance of
the Panama Canal

Buried at the Corozal American Cemetery are American servicemen who served during the Mexican American War, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and all other major conflicts.

Corozal American Cemetery is located approximately 3 miles north of Panama City, Republic of Panama. The main entrance is shared between the American cemetery and the Panamanian cemetery. You will see a wrought iron gate and a sign that reads Corozal American Cemetery on the entrance pillars to mark this main entrance.

Buried at the Mexico City National Cemetery and the Corozal American Cemetery are American servicemen who died during the Civil War and Mexican-American War (1846-1848), and veterans of the Civil War, and Spanish American War. Some of their names are listed below:

Corozal Map

The Isthmus of Panama has long been a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The Spanish first explored and settled the region in the early 16th century, and Vasco Núñez de Balboa’s discovery of the Pacific Ocean in 1513, confirmed the strategic importance of the narrow land bridge. Over the centuries, Panama became a key transit route, leading to the construction of the Panama Railroad in 1855 and, later, the Panama Canal.

The United States played a significant role in Panama’s history, supporting its independence from Colombia in 1903 and securing the rights to build and operate the Panama Canal. The canal’s construction transformed global trade and military strategy, officially opening on Aug. 15, 1914.

To honor Americans who served in Panama, a cemetery was established in 1914. Decades later, the Corozal American Cemetery was placed under the administration of the ABMC, ensuring its preservation. The cemetery remains a lasting tribute to those who contributed to the canal’s legacy and U.S.-Panama relations.

Vintage Poster

Vintage posters convey the beauty, tranquility, and solemnity of the place as a sign of respect for those who fought so that we can live free today.