In a quiet corner of Corpus Christi, a Marine veteran’s final journey is at risk of being marked by empty chairs and silence. Private Michael Austin Bucklin, who served his country for three years in the early 1980s, faces the prospect of being laid to rest without family by his side.
The Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery has scheduled an Unaccompanied Veteran Burial for Pvt. Bucklin on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., and is now calling on the community to ensure this Marine isn’t buried alone.
A Veteran Without Family, But Not Without Honor
Born on January 29, 1963, Bucklin served in the United States Marine Corps from September 1981 to September 1984. During his service, he earned the Rifle Marksman Badge and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon — modest decorations that nonetheless represent his commitment to duty.
“Pvt. Bucklin is not expected to have any next-of-kin attend his burial,” cemetery officials noted in their announcement. “Please help us spread the word and ensure that this U.S. Marine Veteran is not buried alone.”
What happens when a veteran has no family to claim them? In Texas, the answer reflects a commitment that extends beyond death itself.
Military honors will be provided at the burial, maintaining the dignity and respect due to all who’ve served. If no next-of-kin appears, a Veterans Land Board Representative will accept the American flag on Bucklin’s behalf — a solemn duty that speaks to the state’s promise that “NO Veteran is EVER left behind.”
A Place of Dignity and Remembrance
The Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery isn’t just another burial ground. Located at 9974 Interstate Highway 37 in Corpus Christi, this specialized cemetery offers veterans a final resting place that acknowledges their service.
The facility, which operates under the Texas Veterans Land Board, provides a dignified environment complete with an assembly area, committal shelter, and administration building, all designed specifically to honor those who served and offer peace to visitors.
“It’s a tranquil place for family members and visitors to pay their respects,” according to cemetery officials, who emphasize the site’s role as more than just a burial ground, but as a living memorial to sacrifice.
Dr. Dawn Buckingham, who made history in 2022 as Texas’ first female Land Commissioner, has placed veteran services among her top priorities. Her office oversees the Veterans Land Board, which manages the state’s veterans cemeteries.
“As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe,” her office stated.
The burial service will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, beginning promptly at 10:00 a.m. Community members, veterans organizations, and anyone wishing to pay respects are encouraged to attend.
For Pvt. Bucklin, who once stood among the few and the proud, the final measure of his impact may not be found in who he leaves behind, but in who shows up to send him off with the dignity his service deserves.
