Letter to the editor: Operation Dignity a fitting farewell to veterans

This letter is to acknowledge the “going the extra mile” efforts of Westmoreland County Coroner Timothy Carson, his staff and their many partners who sponsored and supported Operation Dignity on July 15 at Hempfield Park and the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

The selection of the title given to the extraordinary endeavor marked what was in store for the day. The stirring ceremony, heartfelt comments, formal acknowledgement, and recognition of service and gratitude for each of the deceased veterans represented ushered in the moving and solemn final full military honors funeral on the hallowed grounds of the Cemetery of the Alleghenies. All done with compassion and honor.

The unwavering commitment to excellence and the desire to reverently provide a memorable and well-deserved farewell to the 15 deceased veterans was accomplished with dignity and respect fulfilling a long-overdue sacred duty to these servicemen who now rest in peace. Well done.

Ed and Cheryl Werle

Jones Mills