Mike Semmelmeyer: My Experience at Arlington National Cemetery

My Experience at Arlington National Cemetery

Main Street Property Services, Inc.

Mike Semmelmeyer:  U.S. Navy Veteran • Arlington National Cemetery Honor Guard • Commercial Real Estate Broker

The Castro Valley Rotary Club is honored to welcome Mike Semmelmeyer, U.S. Navy veteran and former Arlington National Cemetery Casket Bearer, as the featured speaker for its upcoming meeting. The presentation, titled “My Experience at Arlington National Cemetery,” will take place the day after Memorial Day, offering a meaningful opportunity for reflection on service, sacrifice, and the traditions that honor America’s fallen heroes.

Mike served in the prestigious U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard, earning the coveted Blue Rope and participating in some of the nation’s most significant ceremonial duties. His service included Honor Guard roles in the funerals of Admiral James Stockdale and President Ronald Reagan, as well as numerous ceremonies for fallen Navy SEALs, Marine medics, and other service members who lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was also frequently assigned to White House ceremonial details, representing the Navy with distinction.

Now a Commercial Real Estate Broker in the San Francisco Bay Area, Mike brings a unique perspective shaped by discipline, honor, and firsthand experience with the rituals that define national remembrance.

His presentation will offer Rotarians and guests a rare, behind‑the‑scenes look at the precision, reverence, and emotional weight of serving at Arlington National Cemetery—one of the most sacred places in the United States.

The Castro Valley Rotary Club invites members, guests, and community members to attend this powerful and timely program.

Mike Semmelmeyer is a United States Navy veteran whose service reflects some of the highest traditions of honor, duty, and respect. As a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard, Mike served as a Casket Bearer and earned the distinguished Blue Rope designation at Arlington National Cemetery, a mark of exceptional performance, leadership, and ceremonial excellence.

During his tenure, Mike participated in some of the nation’s most solemn and historic ceremonies. He served on the Honor Guard for the funerals of Admiral James Stockdale and President Ronald Reagan, and he was frequently assigned to White House details. Mike also took part in services honoring fallen Navy SEALs, Marine Corps medics, and other service members who gave their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. His experiences at Arlington—where precision, reverence, and compassion define every moment—shaped his deep understanding of service and sacrifice.

After completing his military service, Mike transitioned to a successful career as a Commercial Real Estate Broker in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he continues to demonstrate the professionalism, integrity, and commitment that defined his military career.

Lunch will be served, guests are welcome, the cost is $20.00