Berks veterans group buries remains of unclaimed Marine

The unclaimed remains of a military veteran were laid to rest Tuesday afternoon at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

And the only people gathered there to honor his memory were strangers.

The ceremony was arranged by Veterans Making a Difference as a way to pay final respect to former Reading resident Lance Cpl. Michael J. Veneziale, whose ashes were not claimed by relatives.

Doug and Liz Graybill, the founders of Veterans Making a Difference, said they decided to take on this role shortly after forming the organization because it was something that needed to be done. The group is the only known organization in Berks County taking the lead on getting veterans the dignified burial that they deserve for their service.

Veneziale served in the Marine Corps from March 2, 1972, until he was honorably discharged on Dec. 7, 1973. He served as a cook while in the military.

Cody Bobbitt, a fellow Marine Corps veteran who served from 2011 to 2018, proudly received the flag at the service for Veneziale at the cemetery in Lebanon County.

Source: Berkshire mont