Posted by Allison Silberberg on February 7, 2023:

It is with a full heart that I write a remembrance about Townsend Allen Van Fleet. Yesterday was his service at Arlington National Cemetery. Though quite cold, it was a beautiful service in Van's honor. We were in a long line of cars that drove slowly along the narrow roads between the endless rows of tombstones. Arlington National Cemetery is hallowed ground. Once we were close to the gravesite, the draped casket was carried carefully from the hearse. The prayers, a hymn from the choir, the bugle playing "Taps," the salute of gunfire. At the end of the service, the young men in uniform carefully and with precision folded the flag that had draped Van's coffin and presented it to a gentleman seated near the coffin. After the service, everyone stood still, Van's coffin remaining present above the ground. A number of West Point alumni stood in formation and began to sing the alma mater. It was the perfect capstone to the service and a fitting tribute to a full life that was well-lived. During the service, I thought of all the incredible memories with my longtime friend. If Van was part of an event or gathering, it was no doubt fun. Van was remarkable in so many ways. Ultimately, the overarching thing I will always remember about Van was his solid encouragement. He attended my very first campaign event, which had maybe five in attendance, including the hostess and her best friend. But Van was full of gusto. With a look across the room, I knew he was pulling for me. He was kind, helpful, and thoughtful. I am forever grateful. I got to know Van because of our shared interest in community and political issues, especially as they related to our City of Alexandria. I remember seeing Van and his wife, Julie, at meetings. They were deeply involved in the Old Town Civic Association (OTCA). Van led OTCA or he had a leadership role in it for numerous years, making a lasting difference in Alexandria. OTCA has a widely respected voice when it comes to issues facing Old Town or the city in general. Van also served on the Federation of Civic Associations and often spoke to the Alexandria City Council, advocating for an issue. Van was certainly committed to historic preservation and the quality of life in Old Town. He advocated for a common sense approach to government. You always knew where he stood because Van was very straightforward. He had a contagious laugh and certainly knew how to have a great time. I will always remember him this way: a big guy with a warm smile on his face, a newspaper with the crossword puzzle filled out, and a fellow with many devoted friends. I miss chatting with him already. Van will certainly be missed in our city. For decades, he made a difference and was quite a fixture about town. Godspeed Van. Allison Silberberg Former Mayor of Alexandria, Virginia

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