SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Dozens of people gathered in Brevard County this week to ensure two local veterans received a dignified burial, even though neither had living relatives to arrange their funerals.
The two veterans were interred at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, where they received full military burial honors.
Channel 9 documented the military tradition known as a “Final Mile Ceremony,” a community-driven effort to honor veterans who die without next of kin. The VA and local military organizations work together to make sure these service members are not laid to rest alone.
Joseph Cote, with SEM CO Veteran Services, said the ceremony was about respect for the men’s service and sacrifice.
“It’s all about honoring these two veterans,” Cote said. “They served their country honorably and deserve to be sent away honorably.”
Cote and other volunteers escorted the veterans’ remains as part of the Final Mile, a symbolic last journey from the funeral home to the cemetery, often marked by a procession of vehicles, motorcycles, and uniformed participants.
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