‘Look out for one another’: Motorcycle riders escort veteran without family to funeral in Bourne

BOURNE, Mass — Hundreds of motorcycle riders came together Friday morning to ensure a Vietnam-era Navy veteran wouldn’t say goodbye alone.

When Anthony Meizis passed away, director for Weymouth’s McDonald Keohane Funeral Home Cara Johnson says his funeral was already prepaid and taken care of. But Meizis passed without a spouse or kids and the former Navy Seaman’s only relative nearby was an elderly and disabled cousin who could not attend the service in Bourne.

That’s when Johnson remembered Boston 25 News’ reporting on the Department of Mass American Legion Riders and the previous times they’ve attended funeral services for veterans that died alone.

Her call to the organization was answered by hundreds who packed the roadways in Weymouth Friday morning, ensuring Meizis would have a full crowd for the ceremony at the Massachusetts National Cemetary in Bourne.

Motorcyclists to escort, join funeral for Vietnam vet that was set to be laid to rest alone

“We don’t know him. It doesn’t matter. That’s a sad story for a Vietnam vet to go out alone,” said rider Bill Kennefick. “Everyone just rallied up and here we are.”

“We’re here to help people. We’re a charity organization. So we were absolutely all-in,” said Angel Zaporetski. “We’re for veterans. My whole family is veterans so I know the sacrifice they make.”

The rider’s journey with Meizis ended Friday morning, where he was buried with full military honors.

The Department of Mass. American Legion Riders provided the following statement to Boston 25 News:

“To everyone who attended and rode for Anthony, whether you’re a Veteran or not, you are what makes this community the best in the world. We always look out for one another to the end. All of you are the reason we serve proudly and continue serving to this day. We don’t do this for ourselves we do this for others in need. Again, thank you to all involved in any way. Fair Winds and Following Sea’s to Seaman Anthony L. Meizis”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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