BEAUFORT, S.C. () — A final farewell was held for a Vietnam veteran who never got one in life.
Horrell White, an unclaimed United States Army veteran was laid to rest in Beaufort’s National Cemetery today, but he wasn’t alone.
“At this moment, we have every reason to be present, and he merits a respectable burial in these sacred grounds,” expressed a preacher from Lady’s Island Baptist Church, who conducted the committal. “With gratitude from the nation, we bid you goodbye, soldier, goodbye.”
After prayer, the solemn “Taps” song rang through the cemetery grounds, creating high emotions for the folks in attendance.
White’s unclaimed service didn’t fit into the traditional sense. His family could not claim him due to unavoidable circumstances.
Over a hundred strangers made up of civilians, service members and fellow veterans stepped in to fill that role.
“This is a solemn occasion,” stated Ray Giuliano, the ride captain for the Patriot Guards. “It’s the most difficult day that families experience here, and we are privileged to be present to represent the Patriot Guards, offering the respect, dignity, and honor that they truly deserve.”
The event was arranged with assistance from organizations such as the Patriot Guard Riders, who believe it is their obligation to honor deceased veterans regardless of the situation.
Jorge Guerrero, a Marine Corps veteran also showed up to pay his respects.
“We’re from all walks of life. We come from every state in the union and we we’re around each other like we were raised together. I think that’s kind of what does it,” said Guerrero. “I think it’s an obligation that we feel we have to one another to show up.”
Showing up is an owed respect that fellow veterans said White deserves, and they know if he could somehow find words, he’d be honored to have a crowd of support, and a sense of union again.
“I hope all he would say is thank you. You know, but I think he would say, ‘I got you in formation again’,” said Guerrero as he laughed.
“We can tell him, ‘You witnessed hell, now witness heaven,’ and he would just smile and say thank you. Vietnam veterans, they were men of a very few words, but they’re very thankful,” said Giuliano as tears rolled down his face.
