Veterans are the true heroes of our society, yet it’s disheartening to realize that many never receive a dignified farewell upon their passing. To address this issue, a group of dedicated high school boys has discovered a meaningful way to pay tribute to their sacrifices.
Students at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School have joined a remarkable volunteer initiative that enables them to serve as pallbearers for homeless veterans. This program, part of the Dignity Memorial Network’s Homeless Veterans Program, offers funeral services to veterans who would otherwise go without a proper burial.
When a veteran passes away and their family cannot be located within 90 days, the program steps in to provide a casket. Traditionally, these veterans would not have a service or anyone to carry their casket, but thanks to these compassionate teens, that is changing.
According to reports from Good Housekeeping, the first funerals involving these students took place earlier this month, following the enrollment of over 50 participants. Inspired by these young men’s efforts, even more individuals, including those outside of the school, have volunteered to assist throughout November.
The teens expressed to Good Housekeeping that serving as pallbearers is a profound way to honor these veterans and to “offer a final tribute to a person’s life journey.” One volunteer remarked, “I know these individuals had loved ones, and regardless of whether their loved ones could be present to say goodbye, everyone deserves a proper burial.”
It is a sobering reality that the United States struggles to adequately care for its veterans. The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV) estimates that around 49,933 veterans experience homelessness on any given night, representing about 12 percent of the total homeless population. Many of these individuals face challenges such as mental health issues and substance abuse, and the number of homeless veterans continues to rise.
Addressing this crisis will require significant efforts from individuals, businesses, and policymakers. Veterans need access to jobs, housing, affordable healthcare, and supportive programs. While these teens are providing an invaluable service to those who have sacrificed so much, they are also raising awareness about the homelessness crisis within the veteran community and encouraging others to help.
Veterans deserve our deepest respect and admiration, and it’s inspiring to see these young men honor them in their final moments. Their actions should motivate all of us to do more to improve the lives of veterans still among us. For more information on veteran burial programs in your area and additional ways to assist, visit NCHV.org.
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In summary, the efforts of these high school students to honor homeless veterans who die alone is a poignant reminder of the respect and dignity every individual deserves. Their commitment not only serves those who sacrificed for our country but also highlights the urgent need to address veteran homelessness in our society.