Tour highlights benefits for Our Heroes
The September 18th tour of Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery sponsored by the Glueckert Funeral Home started on a very patriotic note as a luxury coach bus filled of veterans were led in song by JoEllen Clewes, Auxiliary President, Des Plaines American Legion Unit 36, singing “God bless America”
During the trip to the cemetery, Marco Dabetic, Commander of VFW Post #2202 spoke about the WWII traveling Wall and guests had the opportunity to share their stories about serving in the military.
Upon their arrival, guests were greeted by Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery coordinator retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Andi Dockstader and given a presentation of what they are entitled to at the cemetery as well as the 14 year history of the cemetery.
Guest followed beautifully landscaped paths while touring the 900 plus acre cemetery stopping at gravesites as well the columbaria, the Memorial walk and the scattering deck for cremated remains.
While visiting one of the committal shelters, guests had the privilege of seeing a military honors service taking place including rifle volley, Taps, folding and presentation of the American Flag.
At the conclusion of the tour, guests were able to visited graves of family members and friends. And, on the way back to Glueckert Funeral Home, everyone enjoyed a box lunch and took a quiz on the history of the Korean conflict.
“This was our third tour and it's rewarding so many people feel what we're doing is helpful,” commented Jackie Glueckert. “We filled up to capacity really quick and having a waiting list certainly opens the possibility of adding a second tour next year.”
The annual Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery tour is a free activity provided by Glueckert Funeral Home to better inform veterans and their families of benefits available to them.
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery is located in Elwood, Illinois and spans 982 acres of field and forest containing about 26,600 graves of American military veterans and their loved ones.
Honorably discharged veterans, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, or any other VA national cemetery, at no cost to the deceased family. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.
For additional information regarding military benefits that are available call Glueckert Funeral (847) 253-0168, stop by their facility at 1520 North Arlington Heights Road in Arlington Heights or visit their website GlueckertFH.com