HOLLY TOWNSHIP, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In a somber and dignified procession, 13 military veterans who once lay unclaimed in a Detroit morgue finally found a resting place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly Township on Thursday, October 31st.

The 60-mile journey saw 13 hearses carrying these servicemen to their final resting place, escorted by state troopers on motorcycles.

A tragic chapter closed.

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According to the Detroit News, this burial marks the end of a poignant chapter in Wayne County with the last of what was 200 unclaimed bodies, some lying forgotten for up to three years, now receiving proper burials. Civilian burials were done in September.

Private coalitions, including The Jewish Fund and the Missing in America Project, stepped up to ensure that these veterans and civilians would not be forgotten. “This brings to an end a very tragic time in our community,” said Dr. Richard Krugel, chair of The Jewish Fund, who helped coordinate the ceremonies.

A ceremony of respect and resolve.

Only one family member attended the Holly Township burials of the veterans – the niece of Vietnam- era veteran Roland Dukes, who gratefully accepted a flag in his honor. “It was a beautiful ceremony,” said Shimeca Jackson, adding that she appreciated the recognition her uncle finally received.

Chaplain Maj. Carl Livingston from the Army National Guard presided over the service, saluting the 13 flag-draped caskets and expressing a heartfelt wish: “Rest in peace, dear brothers-in-arms.”

Initiative 91: A promise of dignity.

David Techner, funeral director and part of the coalition responsible for these burials, noted that such an accumulation of unclaimed bodies “will never happen again.” Through “Initiative 91,” unclaimed bodies will now be buried or cremated within 90 days, ensuring that no one lies forgotten.