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Austin Soldier Denied Burial Request

Spc. Matt LaForestSPC Mathew P. LaForest, 21, of Austin was killed in action after being shot by enemy forces in Taji, Iraq.

His parents had requested permission from Governor Rick Perry to have their son buried in the Texas State Cemetery here in Austin.

Today, Governor Perry rejected that request, citing that LaForest is not eligible by state law to be buried at the Texas State Cemetery:

Those eligible also include people who have made a significant contribution to Texas history and culture in several fields, including space, agriculture, business, education, military affairs, law enforcement, performing arts, ranching, religion, science, medicine, sports and writing.

I think that SPC LaForest’s death constitutes a “significant contribution” to military affairs. In fact, I can think of no contribution more significant than giving your life defending your nation.

The Texas State Cemetery does have a Medal of Honor memorial, and all Texas MoH recipients are eligible for burial in the cemetery. However, to date there are only 3 MoH recipients buried there.

I think at a minimum the cemetery should ensure that at least one KIA Soldier from every war is honored by being buried in the Texas State Cemetery. At this time, none have been so recognized. The LaForest family’s request should have been honored.

Gov. Perry made the wrong decision on this.

Posted by Robbie Cooper on Thursday, May 31st, 2007 | Trackback |

2 Responses to “Austin Soldier Denied Burial Request”

May 31, 2007 » Austin Soldier Denied Burial Request

Left by Austin Bloggers Metablog on May 31st, 2007 at 3:36 pm

First, I’d look to see if there has ever been an exception and if soldiers have ever been buried there before. He’s from Austin, they should allow his parents to bury him in the cemetery.

Left by kma on May 31st, 2007 at 7:02 pm

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