Three unclaimed veterans were laid to rest with full military honors in Ardmore, Oklahoma, Thursday, highlighting the dedication of local veterans and state officials to honor those who served, even when families are absent.
Veterans step in as family
Sgt. George Simon, Seaman Robert Montgomery and Sgt. Larry Swords were interred in a solemn ceremony led by fellow veterans. Deanna Shaw, the Veterans Cemetery administrator, explained that the service is part of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs’ FOUND project, a recurring effort to locate and bury veterans who have not been claimed by relatives.
“We do this every day for families, but to be able to be the family and step in and fill that void for these veterans makes it extra special,” Shaw said.
Brotherhood on the road
Brandon Clement, a member of the Oklahoma Guard Dogs, drove more than two and a half hours to escort the veterans to the ceremony. “What really brings in and hones in on brotherhood is doing things even when it’s inconvenient. Like today I drove over 2 ½ hours to be here, but I was here for them because they gave their tomorrows,” Clement said.
Senator honors the fallen
During the service, a folded American flag was presented to U.S. Sen. James Lankford. “I realize I’m receiving the flag representing 4 million Oklahomans to say to this veteran and to all veterans as well, Oklahoma is not going to forget you and you’re not unclaimed, you’re still part of us,” Lankford said.
Progress of the FOUND project
Organizers reported that 37 veterans have been laid to rest through the effort so far. Shaw said the goal is to work through every funeral home in the state, noting that the project has only covered two funeral homes to date.
“The goal is to go through every funeral home in the state of Oklahoma and so, right now we’ve only gone through two,” Shaw said.
Commitment to future generations
Clement added that the project reflects a broader commitment among veterans to care for one another. “Knowing that people do care for people like these, so one day when it’s my turn to be put in the ground, there’s going to be people there who show up for me,” he said.
The ceremony underscores the deep sense of duty and brotherhood that defines Oklahoma’s veteran community, ensuring that those who served are never forgotten, even when they have no living relatives to claim them.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
