Southeastern Massachusetts Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam Era died with no family left, State Rep looking for public’s help to honor him

BOURNE, MA — State Representative Steven Xiarhos is calling on the Cape Cod community to come together this Friday to honor the life and service of 74-year-old David P. Czech, a United States Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam Era, who passed away unexpectedly on December 17, 2025.

According to an obituary, Czech was “born and raised in Amsterdam, New York, David later made Cape Cod his home for more than 30 years following his military service. In recent years, he resided in Falmouth, where he remained part of the local community. David proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam Era. He enlisted in 1970 and served honorably until 1972, attaining the rank of Corporal. His service to his country was a source of quiet pride and enduring respect. After his military service, David worked in the retail industry. He lived a private life and was known for his independence and quiet strength.”

With no surviving family, Representative Xiarhos emphasized that it now falls to the community to ensure that Czech receives the dignified farewell he earned.

“As a Gold Star father and a member of a military family, I know how important it is that our service members are never forgotten,” said Rep. Xiarhos. “No veteran should ever be buried alone. This Marine served his country with honor, and now it is our responsibility to stand in for family, to bear witness, and to say thank you.”

Czech will be interred with full military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

Representative Xiarhos also expressed sincere gratitude to the organizations that came together to make this tribute possible, including the Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center, the Marine Corps League Cape Cod Detachment 125, the Patriot Guard, Taps for Veterans, and numerous veteran service organizations across the region.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend and stand in tribute.

Service Details

Date: Friday, January 30, 2026

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Location: Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne

Representative Xiarhos concluded, “Let us show up. Let us stand shoulder to shoulder. And let us remind the world that our veterans are never forgotten.”