R.I. Guard lacks funds for funeral salutes

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news/2008/06/ap_funeralsalutes_060708

The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Jun 9, 2008 12:59:59 EDT

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The sound of a gun salute at funerals for Rhode Island veterans could soon be heard less frequently, due to a federal funding cut.

The Rhode Island National Guard has informed funeral directors that it can only supply firing squads for certain veterans, including those killed in action, Medal of Honor winners, general officers or those who served at least 20 years.

Local vets are livid over the new restrictions. But a National Guard spokesman blamed a cut in federal money for the military honors program — from $1.16 million to $775,000.

Rhode Island state law requires a firing squad and bugler for any honorably discharged veteran, if requested.

North Kingstown Rep. Kenneth Carter said he thinks money can be found to uphold the law. The Guard has said it will delay the new policy while lawmakers try to find the funding.

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