Eric Gonzales, Purple Heart, Tragedy

I am Mark Rabon, former brother in law to Eric and fellow veteran. Eric struggled with pain from wounds (physical and mental) , loss of his comrades, loss of his youngest brother Matthew, and shrapnel that remained in his body for over 15 years. He worked effortlessly with many programs to overcome his pain.

On 13th of March, Eric, the reason the I-10 bridge in Lake Charles, LA was shutdown, without hesitation ended his pain.

Eric is survived by my ex-wife Marissa Rabon. Though together, many veterans in our circle have opted out of their pain (both physical and mental), the family was not ready as I am sure no family is ready for this shocking moment.

To my ignorance, I assumed the VA covered funerals, however they only cover the transportation by reimbursement by receipt and the presentation.

I want all veterans to know and understand the truth behind veteran funerals following service and what additional pain it puts on families in hopes we understand the lasting pain transferred to loved ones.