When an Alexandria funeral home was unable to locate nearby relatives of a 94-year-old Air Force veteran who passed away, they contacted the baseball coach at Holy Savior Menard High School to see if he could help. Coach Jordan Marks considered it an honor and volunteered six seniors on his team to serve as pallbearers for Ralph Lambert’s service.
“Joel Swisher from Hixson Funeral Home called me and basically asked me for a favor, and we were just more than happy he called and more than happy to do it,” said Menard.
And since the February 8th funeral, Marks said he heard from several members of the community thanking him and his players for stepping up.
“Well, I’ve had some phone calls and some emails and text messages from people that I don’t even know. A lot of bad things on the news these days and everybody was just kind of grateful to read something worth reading,” said Marks.
Lambert served in the Air Force from 1950 to 1971 and was buried with full military honors. Marks said not only was it a true act of service for someone they’d never met but it was also a way for players to honor members of their own family who’ve serviced in the military.
“And so, I think it opened their eyes. Anything related to that kind of scenario I think they are more than happy and willing to jump in and help a community member out for sure,” said Marks.
Holy Savior Menard won their home opener last night against Sacred Heart 3-0.
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