By Staff Reports
A group that honors deceased veterans is seeking donations to help continue its mission.
The Patrick County veterans Memorial Honor Guard serves families in their darkest hours by providing military rites at funerals/memorial services, said Richard Cox, treasurer of the organization.
The services it provides are offered at no cost to the veteran’s family.
Since the Honor Guard’s inception in the 1990s, it “has had the privilege and honor to conduct the military rites for more than 1,000 deceased veterans” and their families, Cox said.
While members are required to furnish their own slacks, jackets and shoes, Cox said the group provides caps, ties and other necessities to members.
“It’s hard to put a cost on” what the group provides, he said, adding that members generally devote two to four hours per ceremony and also bear a portion of the travel costs.
He estimated the group operates on a shoestring budget of about $7,000 per year.
Several members are needed for each ceremony, he said of flag bearers/rifle squad, a chaplain, a bugler and members to fold and present the flag to the family.
The Honor Guard also provides a clear vinyl cover to protect “the American flag that was draped over the casket,” Cox said, adding the cover is provided at no cost as a symbol of recognition of the veteran’s service.
“In the past the Honor Guard was able to provide these services from donations received from the family members and friends of the deceased veteran and other sources,” Cox said. “Even though the Honor Guard services are provided at no cost, the sad truth is the Honor Guard has expenses related to being able to provide the military honors to our fallen comrades. In the past two to three years, we have been the victim of a bad economy.
“As a result, the level of donations has dwindled to almost nothing,” Cox said, adding that it now is necessary for the group to appeal to the residents of Patrick County and surrounding areas “to help us in meeting our financial needs so that we can continue to be available to all veterans in their time of need,” Cox said.
A posting on the group’s social media page reflects its commitment and dedication. It reads:
“I am a veteran. My oath to America does not expire.”
Donations may be mailed to Richard D. Cox, Treasurer, Patrick County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard, 7888 Woolwine Highway, Woolwine, Va., 24185. Make checks payable to The Patrick County veterans Memorial Honor Guard.
Any amount will be greatly appreciated, Cox said, and added that no donation is too small.
