Read through the thread.
We had a fellow like this in my home town in Massachusetts when I was a kid, everyone called him Tiger.
When he passed away the police found a Silver Star, Purple Heart and other decorations, along with some documents showing he had served well in WW 2, amongst his meager possessions.
The VFW and American Legion got together to give him a proper burial.
Sgt William Ashley, US Army WW2, combat fatigue got to him and he was the town hobo and drunk.
His family, who disowned him due to shame, has been in town since the 1640's.
Those that knew, never talked while he was alive and could have used the help.
Maybe Bill has a similar story, maybe not.