Fort Jackson, South Carolina, August 26, 2025
News Summary
In a moving ceremony, five unclaimed veterans received full military honors at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, organized by Chapin’s American Legion Chapter 193. The event, attended by supporters from the community, emphasized the importance of recognizing the service of veterans who may have been overlooked. The honored veterans included Army and Air Force personnel, as attendees came together to provide a respectful farewell. The initiative serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to honor all who served, including recent ceremonies for other veterans whose sacrifices were acknowledged and celebrated.
Columbia, South Carolina – Five unclaimed veterans received a ceremonial burial with full military honors at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. The event took place on Friday morning and was organized by Chapin’s American Legion Chapter 193. The ceremony held significance for numerous supporters who, despite not knowing the veterans personally, came to honor their service and sacrifice for the nation.
The veterans, whose lives were recognized in the ceremony, included four Army veterans: Nolan Dugas Jr., William Faircloth, Everette Boice, and Scott Plonski, along with one Air Force veteran, Kathleen Hodge. The American Legion provided each veteran with a dignified funeral service, underscoring the importance of honoring those who have served in the military, regardless of their circumstances or family connections.
The procession, marking the long-overdue recognition of these veterans, was led by volunteers from the American Legion. They emphasized their commitment to provide a respectful farewell, ensuring that the veterans were claimed as part of the community, as many had no living relatives to attend or claim them. This sentiment was echoed by organizers who stated that the event was meant to provide closure and acknowledge the veterans’ service to the country.
During the ceremony, full military honors were rendered, including traditional elements such as Taps and a three-volley salute, illustrating the country’s respect and gratitude towards these individuals. This event is part of a broader initiative by the American Legion, which conducts four such ceremonies annually at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.
The recognition extended beyond these five veterans, highlighting the recent funeral service for Pvt. 1st Class Arthur W. Crossland Jr., a World War II soldier whose remains were identified decades after being declared missing in action. Crossland was killed in combat on March 15, 1945, in France, and his remains were formally laid to rest nearly 80 years after his death, following confirmation of his identity through DNA testing by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.
The funeral for Crossland attracted significant attendance from family members, combat veterans, and community supporters who came to honor his legacy. This ceremony exemplified the enduring commitment to ensure that soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice are remembered and celebrated, even years or decades after their passing.
The involvement of local organizations in both ceremonies reflects a community effort to support veterans and recognize their contributions. In addition to holding funerals for unclaimed veterans, the American Legion also recently provided internet access and technology support to local families, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the lives of those in the community.
Background of the Events
The American Legion is renowned for its advocacy and honor services for veterans, ensuring they receive recognition for their sacrifices. Ceremonies of this nature provide not only a respectful farewell for veterans but also foster community support and remembrance. This recent event has highlighted the need for continuous acknowledgment of veterans, particularly those who may have been overlooked. The case of Pvt. 1st Class Arthur W. Crossland Jr. serves as a reminder of the importance of discovering and honoring every soldier who has served.
FAQs
What was the purpose of the ceremony at Fort Jackson National Cemetery?
The event honored five unclaimed veterans and provided them with a dignified burial, acknowledging their service to the nation.
How many veterans were honored in the ceremony?
Five veterans were honored, including four from the Army and one from the Air Force.
Who organized the ceremony?
The ceremony was organized by Chapin’s American Legion Chapter 193.
What are military honors?
Military honors are ceremonial displays representing the respect and gratitude owed to veterans, typically including activities like a three-volley salute and the playing of Taps.
What other events are similar to this ceremony?
The American Legion conducts similar ceremonies four times a year at Fort Jackson National Cemetery for deceased veterans.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | Friday Morning |
| Location | Fort Jackson National Cemetery |
| Organizing Body | Chapin’s American Legion Chapter 193 |
| Number of Honored Veterans | Five |
| Service Branches | U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force |
| Status of Veterans | Previously Unclaimed |
| Military Honors | Included Taps and a three-volley salute |
| Related News | Recent funeral for Pvt. 1st Class Arthur W. Crossland Jr. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dignified Farewell for Unclaimed Veterans at Fort Jackson
Chapin Community Mourns the Passing of Samuel Dillard Mathias
Unclaimed Veterans to Receive Honorable Burial in Chapin
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia
- Post and Courier
- Dignity Memorial
- WLTX
- Columbia Daily Herald
- Wikipedia: Veterans’ Benefits
- Google Search: Military Honors
- Google Scholar: Honoring Veterans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Legion
- Google News: Ceremonial Burial
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
