Donate in memory of William Joseph Berka

Hi, my name is Amy and I'm fundraising to purchase a commemorative paver in my father's memory to be installed at the future National Coast Guard Museum under development in New London, CT, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

My father passed away on Christmas, and will be laid to rest next week at the Massachusetts National Cemetery. Obituary information can be found here at the funeral home website.

The National Coast Guard Museum is selling engraved granite pavers as a fundraiser for the museum, and I can't think of a better way to honor my father's memory and his proud service to our nation than having his name connected to this new museum. The Coast Guard is the only branch of the military that does not have its own national museum yet, and the plans for what will be at the new museum in New London, CT, look amazing.

Our house often felt like a little Coast Guard museum, surrounded by Coast Guard books, photos, and other memorabilia. Being in the Coast Guard was one of the most meaningful parts of his life. He was always talking about "his guys" from the ship, and we know he loved them like family.

This is a preview of what the paver will look like once it's engraved, with his rank and the names of the ships he served on.

Should donations exceed the price of the commemorative paver we will donate the extra to the museum.

Thank you so much.