On a solemn Tuesday morning, the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery became a gathering place for community members and veterans alike. They came together with a shared purpose: to honor Lonnie D. Wayman, a U.S. Navy veteran who, due to the absence of known family, was laid to rest with full military honors. This touching ceremony was reported by FOX 17 Nashville.
In a powerful testament to the nation’s commitment to its servicemen and women, the large turnout demonstrated that being labeled “unclaimed” does not equate to being forgotten.
After no relatives stepped forward to claim Wayman’s remains, he was designated as an “unclaimed” veteran. In response, organizers extended an invitation to the public and veteran organizations to ensure that his final farewell would not be a solitary one. The burial took place at 9 a.m. at the Nashville cemetery, drawing a crowd that showed unwavering support for their fellow veteran.
As the ceremony unfolded, a representative from Veterans Affairs (VA) addressed the attendees, challenging the notion of Wayman being “unclaimed.”
“When I first saw the paperwork for Lonnie Wayman, it was marked as an unclaimed veteran,” the representative stated. “But I believe that is a misnomer. Thanks to the unwavering support of the United States military, the dedicated team at Gupton Mortuary, and everyone present today, we are here to claim our honorable veterans and ensure they receive the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Amidst the ceremony, a naval officer presented a folded flag to a mourner, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and acknowledgment of Wayman’s service. The scene underscored that, despite the lack of immediate family, Wayman was surrounded by a community that embraced him as one of their own.
Rows of veterans, community members and military personnel stood in quiet tribute as prayers were offered and honors rendered in recognition of Wayman’s service in the Navy.
Video from the service shows attendees filling the sanctuary, with others standing at the back and outside the church as the ceremony began.
Navy officials fold an American flag over the casket of an unclaimed Navy veteran during a funeral in Nashville, Tenn. (WXTV)
“My friends, our true home is in heaven. Christ Jesus gave us the road map,” a priest said during the service.
He later prayed, “Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”
The ceremony concluded with the release of doves near the cemetery’s flagpoles as Wayman was laid to rest. Officials said cemetery staff would need approximately 30 to 40 minutes to prepare the gravesite for visitors following the service.
In the end, the representative returned to the point that had framed the morning.
A Navy official salutes a mourner during the funeral. (WXTV)
“We are able to claim our honorable veterans,” he said, “and provide them the dignity and honor that they have earned.”
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