Unclaimed Cremated Remains of Twenty-Two Veterans to be Laid to Rest at Forgotten Heroes Funeral

By NMDVS

The unclaimed cremated remains of twenty-two military veterans—including four women veterans– who upon their deaths went unclaimed by family members, will be laid to rest at a special Forgotten Heroes Funeral at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on September 26 at 11am.

 

The cemetery is located in the city’s north side at 501 North Guadalupe Street.

 

The cremains will be interred with military honors in accordance with the state’s Forgotten Heroes Burial Program—established by the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services in 2009 with help from Bernalillo County—to ensure that no veteran will be alone at the end. The funeral will feature an Honor Guard, Flag Fold presentation, Rifle Volley, and a bugle rendition of Taps—elements of a military funeral accorded to any veteran discharged at anything other than dishonorable.

 

Urns to Depart Albuquerque at 9:45am

The cremains have been in possession of the Strong-Thorne Mortuary in Albuquerque (1100 Coal Ave. SE). A hearse will transport the urns to the Santa Fe National Cemetery–departing the mortuary at 9:45am, following a special 8:30am service in the mortuary chapel. The hearse will be escorted by members of several law enforcement agencies and the American Legion Riders.

 

The public is invited to serve as “family” and provide this Final Salute for these 22 fallen veterans who have served our country.