Unclaimed veterans from Berkeley County laid to rest in Beaufort

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A burial service was held Friday at Beaufort National Cemetery for two unclaimed veterans from Berkeley County.

“Unfortunately, earlier this year, we had two veterans that died in Berkeley County,” said Coroner Darnell Hartwell, whose officer was not able to find a next of kin willing to claim either of the bodies.

The Berkeley County Coroner’s Office arranged a proper escort and burial for the servicemen.

Navy Gunners Mate Petty Officer First Class Lewis Melvin Coy, III, and Air Force Senior Airman Benjamin Harrison Hyder, III were cremated. Berkeley County Sheriff’s deputies escorted their remains from Berkeley County to the Beaufort National Cemetery for full military honors.

Many veterans made the trip as well.

“Just a sheer honor to come out from Charleston, as a veteran myself, seeing lots of unclaimed vets as reported now being claimed by our Lord and savior. And just you know a great opportunity to come out and support,” said PFC David Bradbury, Retired US Marine.

A Parris Island chaplain delivered a message. “Nobody. Not one single person is unclaimed by God,” he said during the ceremony.

Veterans lined up to place a forget-me-not flower next to the urns and offered a final salute.

“It feels great. And also, you always look at how many people show up. Every time we have one of these, we have a great showing and today, again, we did,” said MGy Sgt. John Coy, Retired US Marine.

An American flag, for each of the men was folded and presented. Coroner Hartwell received one of the flags. He said they would be kept safe at his office in case family members later decide to pick them up.

“I just can’t thank everybody for all the work that they’ve done for these veterans that we were able to bring here to have them to be buried in this beautiful cemetery that is designated for our American soldiers,” said Coroner Hartwell.

Coroner Hartwell said they plan to have a similar service here each year as they have unclaimed veterans.