05/24/2026
On this Memorial Day weekend, I remember the many veterans that I have known and buried. Some with long, great and storied careers, you probably have read about. Then there are a few, their lives almost unknown.
One veteran that stays in mind is Michael Angelo Meglio, a Korean War army veteran who died at age 83, and buried in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Born in St. Louis, MO, his parents unknown to us, an electrician who never married, died quietly in a local nursing home in 2015. His one dear friend was Joseph Patrick Hubbard with St. Vincent de Paul Society.
Joseph helped Michael get placed into the nursing home from a not so good living situation. Joe made sure Michael's needs were taken care of and stood by him until his death. No other family or friends visited...just Joe.
Joe arranged for Michael's honorable burial and rode with me in the hearse. Following a few words by Joe and military honors, Joe received Michael's burial flag. Michael was then laid to rest with his fellow veterans.
My friend, Joseph Patrick Hubbard died last year. Joe was not a veteran, but spent his lifetime helping those in need, many being veterans, providing Christ like help, when they needed it most.
May God bless ✝️ Michael and Joseph, as we celebrate all who make our Nation great! 🇺🇸
Charles Kassly
