Nearly 1,500 strangers gathered in Massachusetts to honor a World War II veteran with no known family.
Navy veteran John Arnold died at the age of 98 with no surviving relatives.
A public call for attendees went out to ensure he would not be buried alone.
The response was overwhelming, with people arriving to give him a hero’s farewell.
Arnold served in the Navy during World War II, defending his country overseas.
His funeral drew a crowd that filled the church and lined the streets outside.
Military honors were rendered, including a gun salute and the playing of Taps.
The veteran’s ashes were then interred with full military ceremony.
Organizers had hoped for a dozen people; they got 1,500 instead.
Attendees described their presence as a simple act of gratitude and respect.
The event underscored a community’s commitment to honoring service members.
“Nobody should go alone,” was the sentiment echoed by many who attended.
