A group of veterans in New Jersey is working to make sure the cremated remains of America’s heroes are returned to their families.
Radio station WBGO recently featured the efforts of Vietnam Veterans of America Jersey Shore Area Chapter 12 and their Veterans Cremains Project.
The group’s work is also featured in a four-minute documentary titled Forgotten. Click here to watch.
According to the article, approximately 20 percent of unclaimed remains in funeral homes across the country are those of veterans.
The chairman of the Cremains Project told WBGO they are working to spread the word so that the funeral directors they encounter will be more understanding of the cause.
The veterans will ask to conduct an inventory of a funeral home’s unclaimed remains. If there are any cremated remains belonging to veterans, the group will get in touch with family members and plan funeral arrangements for the veteran. Click here to read some of the organization’s most compelling stories.
According to their website, Vietnam Veterans of America Jersey Shore Area Chapter 12 has been able to locate over 70 veterans and their spouses. Some of the funeral homes they’ve worked with include Ely Funeral Home; Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals; John F. Pfleger Funeral Home; Lester Memorial Home; and Francioni, Taylor & Lopez Funeral Home.
Click here to read more about the Cremains Project and find out how you can help.
Funeral homes can demonstrate they support veterans by educating families about the benefits they can receive. Click here to view veterans’ benefits marketing and programs available exclusively in your market.
