By Judith Weeks

On a rainy Saturday morning in May, American Red Cross volunteers met at Lower Merion Baptist Church Cemetery to place flags on the graves of veterans. This tradition was inspired by Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, when after the Civil War she led a delegation to place flags on the graves of soldiers who died in the Andersonville Prison.

This cemetery is steeped in American Military history

Established in 1811, this cemetery has a rich history. It is the last resting place for veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Red Cross volunteers respectfully placed American flags on the grave of each veteran. Betsy Ross flags were placed on the grave of each Revolutionary War Veteran. This flag from the era of the Revolutionary War has thirteen stars in a circle in a blue square with thirteen alternating red and white stripes.

At the grave of a young Civil War soldier, Mary Punshon, church secretary, told the poignant story of letters he sent to his father describing the horrible conditions while marching to battle. Supplies too much to carry were left behind. The only food was hard tack. He describes sleeping on the ground and on a log when it rained. Finally, the letters ended. During a battle, he was hit with miniballs in the ear and died.

Each volunteer had their own personal reason for participating

This event has special meaning for SAF (Red Cross Services to the Armed Forces) volunteer Don Gavella, a Vietnam War veteran. Proudly wearing a baseball hat with insignias designating his service he explained “this just means a lot to me. Its amazing how many vets are buried in this small place.”

Charles Boyer, SAF volunteer, placed flags in memory of his dad who served in World War II. He was stationed in England and on D-Day, landed on Omaha Beach in the midst of howitzers pounding the beach. Charles said “this is an honor to come out and place these flags. I just like the Red Cross and giving time for the veterans who gave us our freedom.”

Another volunteer, Brian Mosel brought his boss, Andrew. He said “Andrew is just a great guy. He wanted to come out and join me.”

Grandmother Maggie Dudik, a Red Cross volunteer, brought her two granddaughters to experience the respect of placing flags. Granddaughter Adele Singson said, “it’s important and this is a good thing to do, so we’re here helping our grandma.” Her sister, Tristin said “I think it’s a good thing. I’m happy that everyone is helping out, it’s a nice thing to do.

Lynn Cohen, Red Cross executive director for the Delaware Valley Chapter, who attended the event to support Red Cross volunteers said, “I love that we want to thank veterans who came before us for the privileges we have today.”

For Jaime Boris this event has meaning because she has family members who served and family members who lost their lives. “It’s knowing that our community comes together not only for veterans buried here but family members and descendants who are also buried near their loved ones.”

It was an exceptional day for all, with each having a special memory of sharing this experience with a friend or family member.

The American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces volunteers support military families during deployments and emergencies, serve in military and veteran’s hospitals, conduct emergency communications and continues to support our nation’s veteran after their service ends.