ONE A DAY
Editor’s note: The following is a submission by the American Legion Post TH02 in Pattaya Thailand. It focuses specifically on a US military combat veteran, however, gives a lot of insight behind the scenes into what happens in general when a foreign national passes away in Thailand. This is part four of four and the conclusion -Adam Judd, Chief Editor, The Pattaya News English
If you missed part one, please click here for the full article. This article will not make sense without reading part one.
If you missed part two, here you go! Click here!
If you missed the third installment, click here.
One A Day Final Chapter
On Saturday 6 Aug Nathan was transported from the Institute of Forensic Medicine Bangkok to Wat Nong Khayat in Phanat Nikhom District, Chon Buri. Thus began the final process for this US Combat Veteran. Nathan was received by the monks of the temple and the final rites were started. For the monks, they begin with their first series of chants for the deceased.
At the conclusion of the first chant members of TH02 and their families pay homage to the monks with offerings.
The members of American Legion Post TH02, VFW Post 9876 and VFW Post 12146 arrive on Sunday 7 Aug to finalize the preparations prior to the 1400 service.
Promptly at 1400, the service begins to render Military Funeral Honors for Nathan Lee Kent, a US Navy Combat veteran. The purpose of conducting Military Funeral Honors is to honor the veteran and to support his or her family by providing those honors. Providing military funeral honors is our nation’s way of showing gratitude and paying final tribute to a veteran’s honorable military service.
The service began with opening remarks from the Commander of American Legion Post Th02 William Ahlberg (USN). Followed by the prayer presented by TH02 Chaplain Shane Curtis (USAF). The eulogy by First Vice Commander Howard Gundy (USMC) and closing comments. The Honor Guard ceremony begins with the playing of TAPS, perhaps the most famous 24 musical notes in history. The conclusion occurs with the folding of the flag.
Although our role in honoring this American Veteran has concluded we contacted a local American Legion Post close to the parents where we will send the personal effects, the Flag, and ashes for them to present to the family.
Rest in Peace
Nathan Lee Kent
