BATTLE CREEK, Michigan — Six Michigan veterans whose remains have been unclaimed for several years received their proper military burials Friday.

Ceremonies were held at Fort Custer National Cemetery near Battle Creek.

“I come from a long line of veterans and it’s the right thing to do to lay them to rest in a place where they belong,” said Michelle Fox, chief investigator for the Office of the Medical Examiner.

Military service members folded American flags and observed a moment of silence during the ceremonies, honoring his life.

“We want to make sure they’re done with dignity and honor,” Fox said.

Friday’s ceremony was made possible through a partnership through the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Forensic Pathology, which worked with federal officials.

The U of M Health-Sparrow investigative team investigated the deceased extensively.

The men either had no surviving relatives, lost touch with their families, or could not afford a funeral.

“We have veterans coming out who have no association with veterans, but are connected to their brothers and sisters,” Fox said.

The ceremonies have become a tradition at Fort Custer, held each year for fallen troops.