Massachusetts State Rep calling on public to fulfill deceased veteran’s wish, so he’s not buried alone

BOURNE, MA — The Office of State Representative Steven Xiarhos is calling on veterans, first responders, and members of the community to come together tomorrow, Thursday, January 22, at 10:45 a.m. at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne to honor the life and service of U.S. Army Veteran and Bronze Star recipient Richard “Ritchie” Cubetus.

Cubetus proudly served our nation during the Vietnam War and earned the Bronze Star for valor during the Battle of Khe Sanh, one of the most significant and brutal battles of that war. He passed away last week at the Veterans Home in Chelsea. He leaves behind no remaining family.

Before his passing, Ritchie expressed one simple and heartfelt wish: to be laid to rest at the Massachusetts National Cemetery. That wish will be honored — and the community is being asked to ensure that this American hero is not buried alone.

“No veteran who served this country — especially one who earned the Bronze Star in combat — should ever be laid to rest without the gratitude and presence of the people he served,” said Representative Xiarhos. “Showing up matters. Standing silently in respect matters.”

The public is encouraged to attend and stand in quiet dignity as this American soldier is laid to rest with the honor he earned through courage, sacrifice, and service to our nation.

Representative Xiarhos extends special thanks to the veterans organizations that have come together in unity to honor Mr. Cubetus, including the Patriot Guard, Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center, Cape Cod Veterans, Inc., the Marine Corps League Cape Cod Detachment 125, the Nicholas G. Xiarhos Memorial Fund, and many other veterans groups who believe deeply in the promise that no veteran is ever forgotten and no hero is buried alone.

EVENT DETAILS

What: Honoring U.S. Army Veteran & Bronze Star Recipient Richard Cubetus

When: Thursday, January 22, 2026 – 10:45 AM

Where: Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne, MA