When I enlisted back in March 2013, my primary motivation was to ensure my kids would have opportunities for a brighter future, perhaps even the chance to go to college without financial burden. Serving in the military is a choice, a sacrifice to give up one's own freedom and security to ensure others in our nation can live safely and freely. Veterans are willing volunteers who have dedicated their lives to defending our freedoms and promoting peace. While on this path, I have sadly encountered many barriers and problems related to the lack of sufficient benefits for veterans, including the struggle to commemorate our fallen heroes.

One significant concern in San Bernardino County, CA is the absence of free obituary listings for veterans in local newspapers. Our veterans deserve to be honored and remembered without placing an additional financial burden on their families during such a difficult time. It is troubling that despite the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, their recognition through something as fundamental as an obituary remains a costly service.

Consider this: a standard obituary can cost up to $450 in San Bernardino County. For many grieving families, this is an unexpected expense they are not prepared to shoulder, particularly after losing a loved one. It’s imperative to acknowledge that both the living and the fallen deserve our respect and gratitude.

Offering free obituary listings for veterans would serve as a lasting tribute for their service and dedication to our country. It would also align with San Bernardino County's values of honoring and supporting our veteran community.

Veterans have long been supported by promises of care, but now is the time to cement those promises with action. If leaders truly support the values veterans embody, initiatives like this are a way to showcase that commitment.

It's time for San Bernardino County to take a stand and lead by example. By implementing free obituary listings for veterans, we can ensure that their stories and sacrifices are told and honored. We urge our local leaders to recognize the critical importance of this initiative and take swift action to implement it. We can show our community and the nation that we truly cherish and respect those who have served. Please sign this petition and support a cause that fights for those who have fought so bravely for us.