The Tampa VA Honors Veterans Jimmie Ray Palmer & Thomas Walton Shryock - Final Mile Salute and Escort

This initiative ensures that unclaimed Veterans receive the dignified farewell they deserve, providing a final tribute that reflects our unwavering commitment to every Veteran.

When a Veteran passes under JAHVH care and has no next of kin to claim their remains, the local chapter of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) steps in to escort the Veteran’s remains to their final resting place, usually a Florida National Cemetery. This collaboration guarantees that these Veterans receive the burial honors befitting their service.

"The commitment to our Veterans does not end at the doors of our hospital," said Chaplain John Wesley. "Through the Final Mile program, we're honored to ensure that those who have served our country are given the respectful and dignified departure they deserve, even if they have no family to claim them."

The recent Final Mile ceremonies for Veterans Palmer and Shryock exemplify the hospital's dedication. These Veterans had no next of kin to claim their remains, but VA staff, community members, and CVMA members came together to honor them. The program symbolizes the unwavering commitment of JAHVH to every Veteran, guaranteeing they are not alone in their final journey.

Key Elements of the Final Mile Program

• VA Medical Facility Director: Ensures overall compliance with the Final Mile program and takes corrective actions if necessary.
• Assistant Director and Veteran Experience Officer (VEO): Oversees the implementation and coordination of the Final Mile ceremony, from the announcement to the actual events.
• Decedent Affairs: Works with Veterans Funeral Care to prepare remains and schedule interments at the National Cemetery Administration.
• Police Service: Provides traffic control around the ceremony staging area.
• Chaplain Service: Offers the invocation during the ceremony.
• Communications and Media: Manages the public address system, plays Taps, and provides video and photo support for the ceremony.

The process begins when Decedent Affairs deems a Veteran’s remains as unclaimed, triggering the coordination of the Final Mile ceremony by the Veteran Experience Officer. Various departments within the hospital work together to ensure a seamless and respectful event.

By bringing together different stakeholders within the hospital and the community, the Final Mile program at JAHVH ensures that each unclaimed Veteran is honored appropriately, reflecting their sacrifice and service to the nation.

For more information about the Final Mile program and how it honors Veterans, please visit JAHVH’s official website or contact the Veteran Experience Office.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRaBzmGgcWY

Contact: James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and Clinics
Phone: 
Email: vhatamtampaveoofficer@va.gov
Website: www.tampa.va.gov