Members of the military community paid their respects to Gerry Brooks, a Marine vet who died at the age of 86
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, who passed away alone last month in a Maine nursing home, was honored with a hero’s farewell by hundreds who had never met him.
Gerry Brooks died in May at the age of 86. He was laid to rest on Thursday, June 20, at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Augusta.
Not much is known about Brooks, an Augusta resident, apart from the fact that he was widowed and passed away shortly after being admitted to a nursing home. According to Katie Riposta, the director of a funeral home in charge, Brooks’ next of kin did not claim his body, prompting a call for attendees and pallbearers.
The news about Brooks’ death spread quickly, especially on social media, drawing a significant number of volunteers to carry his casket.
At the funeral, Brooks was honored with full military rites. Patriot Guard Riders on motorcycles escorted his hearse, while members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars gave him a 21-gun salute.
Jordan Elston, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, remarked ahead of the service that no military member should have a lonely farewell. He found it heartwarming that the military community gathered to pay their respects.
“No service member should have their final farewell alone,” Elston said. “As fellow Marines and veterans, we believe it’s important to show that he is remembered and valued.”
Donald Kozerow, a judge advocate of the Marine Corps League, said they received notice about Brooks from brothers in Augusta and felt the need to be present.
Jim Roberts, a commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Belfast, considered it an honor to rally around Brooks. “In times of negativity, this is something positive for people to unite around,” he commented.
During the ceremony, Brooks’ son, granddaughter, and son-in-law attended but chose not to speak.
Chaplain Phillip Dow of the Maine Army National Guard, who officiated the service, expressed gratitude for Brooks’ willingness to serve.
In a touching Facebook post, the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services shared photos from the ceremony and thanked everyone who attended the burial of Gerry R. Brooks, recognizing his service and dedication.
