A Final Salute
“The greatest honor a veteran can give another veteran is to render military honors at his funeral.”
— Tim Palmer, Honor Guard Commander
As I pull into the empty cemetery on a warm August morning, I am filled with a sense of peace. Slowly, one by one, cars and trucks pull into the lot. First, a bagpiper steps out, adjusting his regalia, then several Marines check their rifles and rounds. I watch as they exchange warm, heartfelt hellos and information about the veteran who will be laid to rest. One Marine sits on his walker, maintaining his strength; he will need to hold a rifle and perform the gun salute for the upcoming ceremony. Family members and friends arrive, each carrying their own memories and stories, weaving a tapestry of love and gratitude. In this gathering, there is a palpable sense of unity and healing, as strangers become comrades, connected by the profound impact of a life dedicated to service. It is a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between those who serve and those who remember.
The Texarkana Marine Corps League, a dedicated group of volunteers who perform honor ceremonies for veterans, has become an unexpected yet profound part of our lives. Through my son Jett’s journey to learn and play Taps on the trumpet—a skill inspired by my own grandfather’s military service and solemn farewell—we’ve been introduced to these selfless individuals. These men and women, bound by camaraderie and respect for those who served, arrive at cemeteries early, preparing to offer a final salute. Their commitment, regardless of age or physical limitations, is a testament to their unwavering dedication.
“The honor guard is not just a duty, but an honor in itself, as we provide a service that every veteran deserves,” shares Commandant Jonathan McIntyre. “We work with area Veteran Service Organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion, particularly the DeQueen Post 54, to create a memorable and meaningful performance. However, we need more dedicated men and women who are willing to give up some of their time to honor not only the veteran, but also the veteran’s family.”
Witnessing Jett’s involvement with the honor guard has not only deepened our appreciation for military traditions but also connected us to a community that honors service with every note played and every salute given. These experiences have shown us the true spirit of gratitude and remembrance that pervades this noble duty.
The Texarkana Marine Corps League, established in 2003 by seven founding members, is a nonprofit organization that honors veterans by providing military honors at funerals free of charge. As a 501(c)(4) entity, it relies on donations to continue its mission of ensuring veterans receive the respect and recognition they deserve upon passing. “We could not accomplish our mission without the help of our local funeral homes, who call upon us for our services,” says Tim Palmer, Honor Guard Commander. “They truly care about our veterans and are just as much a part of the Honor Guard as we are.”
The organization maintains strong connections with local funeral homes, reserve units, and the Department of Defense’s casualty assistance programs. Often, they are the first point of contact for arranging firing teams when local INI staff lack the personnel to do so. While based in Texarkana, the League’s commitment to serving veterans extends beyond the city’s limits, reaching areas like Camden and Little Rock whenever possible. Their dedication underscores a deep respect for those who have served, ensuring that no veteran is forgotten in their final farewell.
The Texarkana Marine Corps League meets on the third Thursday of each month at 1900hrs (7 p.m.) at the Denver “Bull” Randleman VFW Post 4562, located at 4700 E. 13th St., Texarkana, AR 71854. This November, as we honor our nation’s veterans, please consider donating to this organization that dedicates its time freely to ensuring honor for all veterans.
Click here to give back to the Texarkana Marine Corps League.
