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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
World
Edward Helmore and agencies

Hundreds attend funeral for US marine who died alone at nursing home

a flag-draped casket is surrounded by headstones and American flags
Former US Marine Gerry Brooks is laid to rest at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta, Maine, on 20 June 2024. Photograph: Patrick Whittle/AP

Former US marine Gerry Brooks died alone at a nursing home in Maine, all but forgotten. Then the funeral home posted a notice asking if anyone would serve as a pallbearer or simply attend his burial.

Within minutes, it was turning away volunteers to carry his casket. A bagpiper came forward to play at the service. A pilot offered to perform a flyover. Military groups across the state pledged a proper sendoff.

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