KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Members of the East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard units provide veterans with their final military honors, including those whose remains are unclaimed.
Earlier this year, those services were seen in action, as officials, veterans, and community members gathered at a memorial service to honor three unclaimed veterans. Throughout the process, the Honor Guard played a crucial role in the service, by escorting the veterans’ remains, playing “Taps,” and presenting flags for each service member.
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The veterans whose remains were laid to rest in May were three of 61 names included in the Knox County Regional Forensic Center’s list of unclaimed veterans. Director of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center Chris Thomas, who served in the U.S. Army for 10 years, described the role the Honor Guard provides to recognize those veterans as “invaluable.”
“The Knox County Regional Forensic Center is always honored to partner with the East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard during our annual ceremonies recognizing unclaimed [veterans],” Thomas said. “Through their professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to honoring fellow veterans, they provide the military traditions and honors that these individuals have earned through their service to our country. The ceremonial presentation of the flag, the playing of Taps, military eulogies, and rifle volleys are powerful reminders that these veterans are not forgotten and that their sacrifices continue to be recognized.”
Thomas added that the forensic center is deeply grateful for the countless volunteer hours, dedication, and compassion demonstrated by the East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard…