Why I’m a Member of the Salute Team

I am often asked by friends and family why I go to interments.Why I stand in the sweltering heat of summer and the brutal cold of winter.Why I choose to witness some of life’s most emotional moments, over and over again.

For me, the answer is simple.

I feel called to give back to our Veterans—to show them that they mattered, that they are remembered, and that their lives hold meaning beyond the day they are laid to rest. Every time I hear Taps, it brings me a deep and steadying sense of peace, as if the world pauses for just a moment to honor someone who earned it.

When I present our letter to a family, I look into the recipient’s eyes. Sometimes I can feel their grief and their pain. I gently touch their hand and say, “God bless you,” and in that moment, a connection forms.

I have handed our letter to the very young and the very old.

To a blind woman.

To a deaf woman.

To a child barely tall enough to reach for it.

And once, to a grieving lady who kissed me on the cheek and whispered, “God bless.”

Every one of those moments reminds me why I serve. Because of these experiences, I truly believe I am making a difference—and I know it isn’t just me. It’s each and every one of us who carve time out of our busy lives to ensure no Veteran is buried alone. Our presence matters. Our service matters.

Service That Grounds Us

As OWRL continues to grow, our service projects keep us grounded in our purpose. Whether we are attending interments, supporting Gold Star families, hosting remembrance events, or simply showing up week after week at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, everything we do ties back to one unwavering belief:

Every Veteran deserves honor, dignity, and a final farewell witnessed with love.

Being part of OWRL is not just about standing at a service—it is about standing with our community. It is about serving the families who walk through unimaginable loss. And it is about building a legacy of gratitude that will outlive all of us.

Nancy embodies that commitment, and we are honored to welcome her as an incoming officer.

Want to Serve With Us?

If you feel called to honor Veterans and support their families, we would love to welcome you.

👉 Fill out an application on our home page to join OWRL.

Together, we ensure No Veteran is Buried Alone.

Secretary-Elect Nancy Robinson joined OWRL to honor her father, a veteran laid to rest at OWRNC. A dedicated member of our Salute Team and a devout volunteer in her everyday life, Nancy’s service is grounded in empathy, devotion, and a heartfelt commitment to ensuring every veteran receives the dignity they deserve.