Unaccompanied veteran honored in Killeen burial service

Richard Chamberlain of the Combat Veterans Association saluted during the Unaccompanied Veteran Burial for Air Force Tech Sgt. Joseph David Martin at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. More than 100 people gathered to honor Martin, who had no next of kin present. Born on June 28, 1951, Martin served in the Air Force from 1973 to 1993. The Texas Veterans Land Board partners with local communities and veterans service organizations to make sure no veteran is laid to rest alone.

Attendees saluted and placed their hands over their hearts as Senior Airman Sophia Figueroa and Airman Bruno Brito of the Joint Base San Antonio Honor Guard carried a folded flag and the remains of Martin. Members of the Joint Base San Antonio Honor Guard performed a three-person firing party volley, while Senior Airman Figueroa held the American flag over Martin's urn as attendees saluted during the playing of Taps.

Army veteran Edgardo Valdivia of the Patriot Guard and Sherry Hering, also of the Patriot Guard, were among those paying respects. Air Force veteran Nicholas Salinas attended the service, along with members of the Air Force’s 9th Air Support Operations Squadron and Third Combat Weather Squadron at Fort Hood, who stood in formation.

The Texas Veterans Land Board partners with local communities and veterans service organizations to ensure no veteran is laid to rest alone.