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In Louisiana, a group of high school students is being celebrated for providing a respectful farewell to Ralph Lambert, a former U.S. Air Force veteran who passed away on February 8 at the age of 94. Lambert, who served the nation from 1950 to 1971, had no family or friends to attend his funeral. Despite his two decades of service, it seemed Lambert would be cremated without a proper tribute.

Coach Steps In

Jordan Marks, a local high school baseball coach, learned about Lambert’s situation and decided to take action. “I picked the six seniors we have. I try to teach them the game of baseball but also the game of life, and anytime we can serve a community member or especially somebody that served for our country, we are more than happy to do it,” said Marks, as reported by KPLC-TV.

Marks enlisted six seniors from Menard High School’s baseball team to attend Lambert’s burial and carry his coffin. The students, Ashton Veade, Cameron Kinder, Jacob Giordano, Jackson Ford, Ashton Brodnax, and Hunter Foster, served as pallbearers for the veteran. The flag-draped casket was carried to the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in a poignant ceremony.

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A Lesson in Life

Senior Jacob Giordano expressed that it was an honor to be a pallbearer for a veteran without family or friends. Cameron Kinder highlighted the often-overlooked reality of people living without families and was glad to provide an honorable farewell to Lambert.

Community Praise

The students received widespread praise for their compassion. “What a bunch of kind and caring young men!! We are ALL proud of you!!” wrote Paula. Another commenter added, “So so proud of these young men!! What honor this veteran had to be escorted to his resting place by these upstanding guys.” Carra wrote, “Absolutely awesome, thank you young boys for serving others, especially for someone who served our country.”

Supporting Forgotten Heroes

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for veterans to be cremated without any family or friends present. The Missing In America Project is one organization that works to locate, identify, and inter the unclaimed remains of American veterans. They collaborate with private, state, and federal organizations to ensure these forgotten heroes receive the honor and respect they deserve. Their mission is to provide a final resting place for those who served the country, honoring their commitment and sacrifice.