The land around the Veterans Memorial Pond at the South Gate of Ocean Pines is now hallowed ground. Martha was formally laid to rest there during an OPA approved ceremony on June 8, 2015.

Martha the Goose was killed while crossing Route 589 on June 4 after she was struck by a hit-and-run driver, according to eyewitness reports.

Forum member Peggy Turner wrote, "It is with great sadness I inform you of the passing of long time resident of the Ocean Pines area and leader of the goose brigade of the South Entrance Pond...Martha, AKA Roadkill and Jason. Martha was the big white goose with a messed up, hanging wing. On Thursday, June 4, Martha was struck by a black SUV while crossing 589. Witnesses say it was a hit and run but these details have not been verified. A group of compassionate Ocean Pines residents removed her body and are planning to bury her. Rumors are Martha will be honored with additional stories in local papers. Rest in Peace, Martha."

The next day Turner announced the funeral arrangements.

"A burial is scheduled Monday morning, June 8. Those attending should meet in parking area between 8:30 and 9 am. Martha was well known and has a very large following sending condolences on her passing. A large outpouring of condolences has been posted on the Ocean Pines Exchange web site along with many pictures of Martha. She was really loved by so many."

Apparently Martha was held in a freezer until burial.

There is no news as yet as to how many of Martha's large following attended the ceremony. However, Michelle Bennett, Executive Assistant to Ocean Pines General Manager Bob Thompson confirmed that GM Thompson did grant permission for the burial on OPA land to take place. This was also confirmed by OPA Board of Directors President Dave Stevens.

Prior to the funeral it was reported that, "One very caring lady said her husband is a skilled woodworker and could build a memorial plaque for Martha to honor her. They are out of town and will be back next week. Martha was loved and people may wish to visit from time to time and place bread crumbs or flowers."

The memorial plaque idea was apparently turned down by GM Thompson. Perhaps Martha's large following will ask Thompson or the Board of Directors to allow one.

Martha's followers are also seeking police action to identify the driver of the black SUV and bring the individual to justice. Turner reported, "There was a witness and concerned OP residents asked this person to report the hit and run to police so an investigation could be opened. We do not know if this occurred."

Turner's final report of the burial, based on information she received, was, "Martha was placed in a very pretty spot overlooking the pond, and flowers were placed on her grave. The group burying Martha did ask Bob (GM Thompson) for permission and he said yes. Bob said he was sad Martha was gone. Martha was a favorite at the pond. Some even think the woman responsible for her burial should run for the board because she brought the community together in such a nice way. OP needs more of that type of bonding."

OPA should develop policy for burials on the land around the South Gate Pond, as such requests are now likely to become more frequent. Perhaps this is also an issue the OPA Board of Directors Candidates should address during this campaign season in Ocean Pines.