The Return Home
Alfred's extended relatives, along with hundreds of police, firefighters and other first responders, gathered at Logan airport to witness his return to his home state.
An Incredible Ceremony
However, what they encountered surpassed their expectations in ways they couldn't have imagined. At the airport, the family was escorted onto the tarmac to view the casket as it was removed from the plane. One of Alfred’s ancestors, James Papia volunteered as part of the army escort. The scene that unfolded before them was nothing short of overwhelming. As the casket, draped in the American flag was removed from the airplane, military service men and women stood in line adjacent to the aircraft.
The honor guard stand at the ready to escort the casket.
Outpouring of Gratitude
At the funeral home in Waltham, the family anticipated that only close relatives would gather to pay their respects. Yet, they were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community. Hundreds of individuals, representing various walks of life, came to offer their condolences and express gratitude for Alfred's service and sacrifice. Among them were veteran groups, whose presence underscored the profound impact Alfred had made not only in his family's life but also in the wider community.
The funeral procession gets underway for a trip from Waltham, MA all the way to Bourne, MA. The highway entrances and exits were shut down while the procession drove by.
A Legacy Remembered
For Alfred's family, this unexpected display of honor and remembrance was both humbling and heartening. It served as a reminder of the enduring gratitude and reverence held for those who have bravely served their country, even decades after their passing. Through this process, Alfred's legacy lives on, a testament to the unwavering dedication of individuals and organizations committed to honoring and supporting veterans, both past and present.
Landing
Alfred's return to his home state of Massachusetts marked a poignant moment for his extended family, who sought to honor his sacrifice with full military honors. As his remains were escorted on a passenger plane which landed at Logan Airport in Boston, Massachusetts, and then conveyed to a funeral home in Newton, the family readied themselves for a solemn occasion.
The transportation of a veterans remains is an important and symbolic act. The military has trained personnel whose job it is to ensure the remains are escorted properly and safely to their destination.
A Lasting Tribute
As they stood on the tarmac, surrounded by the symbols of military service and sacrifice, Alfred’s ancestors were reminded of the profound impact Alfred had made through his selfless devotion to duty. On that rainy early morning in Boston and amongst the solemn ranks of servicemen and women, they found solace in the knowledge that Alfred's sacrifice would be forever honored and remembered.
Alfred's wake was not only visited by his extended family, but local veterans, and other military families as well.
The Procession Underway
Along the procession's route, lines of firetrucks, police vehicles, and other first responders stood in solemn tribute, their members saluting as the funeral convoy passed by. Police from every town were present. The sight of these dedicated servicemen and women paying their respects to a fallen comrade was deeply moving for Alfred's family.
Alfred's burial in Bourne was a solemn and honorable event, fitting his immense sacrifice fighting for his country and to keep his home safe.
An interview with Clare and Annette, two of Betty's daughters and Alfred's great nieces.