I participated in a funeral at the old Maine Veterans Cemetery recently as a member of the Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard.

I was disturbed to see that the military was not present to give a much-deserved military honors for the World War II veteran. The funeral representative didn't know why the military was not present.

He also said the family was not asked if they wanted the military honors, adding that was the responsibility of the veteran's American Legion Post 5.

I reminded him that it was the military's responsibility, not that of veterans' organizations. The son of the deceased told me he didn't know about this policy and that no one had asked him. Funeral directors are supposed to notify the family about this policy and federal law requires the military to furnish the detail if the family desires.

I went to the Armory in Augusta and those in charge of the honors detail told me they were not notified. I also asked them to get in touch with this funeral home and remind them of their duty.

We of the Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard performed the service although not as well as the military. I played taps from my Lincoln limousine. The son praised us and said the taps brought tears to his eyes. I hope all funeral directors see this and act on it.

I will not rest when I see a veteran not given the proper honors.

By the way, we do our part in conjunction with the military at no cost to anyone.

Larry Dearborn

Retired army sergeant first class

Richmond

dearbornlarry@verizon.net