Two Unclaimed Michigan Veterans Laid to Rest with Full Military Honors at Fort Custer

Two Michigan veterans whose remains went unclaimed for years received the dignified military burials they deserved on Thursday at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. The ceremonies honored U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Norman Bouwens and U.S. Navy Electricians Mate Todd McCan.

A Community Steps Forward

When veterans have no family to claim them, the community becomes their family. Members of the American Legion Post 298 Riders and students from Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools gathered to ensure these heroes were not forgotten.

"It's an honor for us to be here today to honor these veterans who have no family to stand for them," said Jeff Burghdoff, director of the American Legion Post 298 Riders. "We all are very passionate about doing this."

Full Military Honors

Each veteran received the traditional military honors befitting their service:

• A three-round rifle volley
• The playing of Taps by a live bugler
• Folding and presentation of the American flag
• Folding and presentation of service branch flags (U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy)

The ceremonies took place at Fort Custer National Cemetery, located in Augusta near Battle Creek, which serves as a final resting place for veterans and their eligible family members.

About the Veterans

Sergeant Norman Bouwens served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Electricians Mate Todd McCan served in the U.S. Navy. Both men served their country but passed away without family to claim their remains.

Stories like theirs are becoming more common as the veteran population ages. Organizations like the American Legion and local community groups have stepped up to ensure no veteran is buried alone.

The Importance of Honoring Unclaimed Veterans

When a veteran dies without family, it does not diminish their service or sacrifice. Ceremonies like this one ensure that every service member receives the respect and honor they earned through their commitment to our nation.

The participation of local students from Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools adds a meaningful dimension...teaching the next generation about duty, honor, and the debt owed to those who served.

How You Can Help

Organizations like the American Legion Post 298 Riders rely on volunteers and community support to continue their mission of honoring veterans. Whether attending ceremonies, supporting veteran services, or simply learning about the sacrifices made by service members, community involvement ensures no hero is forgotten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who were the unclaimed veterans buried at Fort Custer National Cemetery?
A: Sergeant Norman Bouwens (U.S. Marine Corps) and Electricians Mate Todd McCan (U.S. Navy).

Q: Where is Fort Custer National Cemetery located?
A: Fort Custer National Cemetery is located in Augusta, Michigan, near Battle Creek in Calhoun County.

Q: What organizations participated in honoring the unclaimed veterans?
A: The American Legion Post 298 Riders and students from Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools attended the ceremonies.

Sources: WWMT News Channel 3 | WTVB The Voice of Branch County | WGRD