The Real Meaning of Memorial Day

Sometimes unfortunate situations in life can turn into a beautiful event. Approximately a year ago a Long Island woman recovered the remains of a US Navy veteran. She said she contacted Mr. Joseph Grattan of DeFriest Grattan Funeral Home in a panic, not knowing what to do. Mr. Grattan met her and she showed him where the remains were located.

On Wednesday, May 24^th the recovered remains of the US Navy veteran were laid to rest. At 9:15 a.m., the Patriot Guard Riders along with Joe Grattan of DeFriest Grattan Funeral Home, were escorted by Southold Town Police to the Riverhead town line. From there the Patriot Guard Riders escorted them to Calverton National Cemetery where approximately 24 Patriot Guard Riders (men and women) lined the entranceway saluting and waving flags.

Once inside the Patriot Guard Riders again lined the walkway with their flags, and saluted as the remains were brought in by Mr. Grattan. The remains were no longer in a black plastic box, they were placed in a beautiful wooden box adorned with the US Navy emblem as a gift from DeFriest Grattan Funeral Home.

A moment later the Patriot Guard Riders stood in position and taps were played. Three US Navy officers in white uniforms performed the flag ceremony. The military Chaplin blessed the remains, said the Lord’s Prayer, and then proceeded to read a beautiful poem that was written in the 90’s by a soldier.

Beautiful pink roses, carnations, daisies, and baby’s breath were then placed on the wooden box by the Long Island woman. She whispered, thank you for your service, God Bless, and rest in peace. The Patriot Guard Riders fell into position as she left.

Upon leaving they all thanked her, gave her their Patriot Guard Riders coin and a beautiful decal for her car. One of the guards said “I believe angel’s walk among us, and you’re one of them.”

She’s right, angels walk among us, they are people like Mr. Grattan and these fine men and women veterans, our active military, fire fighters, and our police. They put all of us ahead of themselves, to keep us, our families and our homes safe and allow us freedom knowing at any moment they may be the next supreme sacrifice.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” ~ John 3:16

Thank you for your service, rest in Peace, you’re in God’s care now.

“Standing for Those, Who Stood for Us.” ~ Patriot Guard Riders

There were certain guidelines and procedures that had to be followed prior to this beautiful memorial. For more information and photos about the Patriot Guard Riders, please see their website; PGRNY.org or contact Peter Jepson @ doublejli@optonline.net. For additional information please contact Joseph Grattan from DeFriest Grattan Funeral Home, Southold, NY.