Hundreds Honor Abandoned Veteran with Full Military Funeral

Former Marine Gerry Brooks, who died alone in a Maine nursing home, received a heartfelt sendoff from strangers and veterans alike.

Gerry Brooks, 86, passed away in a nursing home with no family willing to claim his body.
A funeral home’s call for pallbearers led to an overwhelming community response.
Hundreds attended the service, including military groups, to ensure Brooks received full military honors.
Tributes included a 21-gun salute, bagpipe music, and a motorcycle escort.
Brooks was remembered fondly by the local soup kitchen staff for his daily visits and humor.