I keep seeing posts about veterans not having any family or friends to attend their funerals. They post them with headlines saying, “Veteran being buried alone,” and encourage people to show up and support. While I appreciate the gesture and the good intentions, I think it’s worth considering this from a deeper perspective.
If a veteran is being buried alone, it often means they didn’t have close family or friends around during their life. That suggests the person may have experienced loneliness. So, while the gesture of attending the funeral is kind, it doesn’t benefit the veteran because they’re no longer here to experience it.
What can really make a difference? Supporting veterans while they are alive. That way, they can feel the connection, enjoy friendship, shared meals, and the company of others.
Showing up to the funeral is thoughtful, but I propose focusing on reaching out and helping veterans during their lives. I’m not sure exactly how to begin, but looking into where veterans who end up in these situations are might be a good start. Being a friend while they’re still here can mean a lot.
Once, I met a man wearing a veteran’s hat; I approached him with my dog and we talked for a while. I tried to get his contact information to stay in touch, but he wasn’t comfortable sharing. Still, making the effort is important, even if the other person doesn’t respond right away.
As meaningful as funeral gestures are, I believe supporting living veterans brings even greater benefit.
Just a life long New Yorker sharing the journey through my lens. Please take note of a post’s date. The views I express here are subject to change and evolving as I grow and learn.
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