Honors military veterans who are being laid to rest
(AURORA, Ind.) – Veterans who are laid to rest will continue to receive the appropriate military honors they deserve in Southeast Indiana.
The Southeastern Indiana Honor Guard, along with the Vietnam Veterans of America Larry Fogle Chapter 71, deploys themselves to funerals across the region to honor veterans who pass away with the firing of three volleys, TAPS, and other honors to provide that final rite.
They’ve been driving around in a van that has over 360,000 miles for the past few years and average about one funeral per week.
The group has just gotten a new van, and Vietnam Veteran PG Gentrup said it has been worth the wait the past two years.
“Through the generosity of several organizations and individuals, we raised the money to pay for it. We are extremely proud of the events, funeral details, public appearances at community events, school programs and more,” said Gentrup.
The van will make its debut at the funeral of World War II veteran Frank Savage on Wednesday. He recently passed away at the age of 101.
“Each honorably discharged veteran is entitled to this solemn presentation and I encourage you to think about this before the veteran passes and make plans for it. I am saddened when a veteran passes and an Honor Guard made up of local veterans is not requested,” Gentrup said.
"They have earned it with their faithful and dedicated service. It is truly an honor for us to be there," he added.
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