Let’s be thankful that the U.S. Senate has passed a bill, just last week, to keep BTK serial killer Dennis Rader of Kansas and other military veterans convicted of murder from being buried in national cemeteries or given military funeral honors.

What an obscene development it would be if someone such as mass murderer Rader should somehow wind up in our hallowed Arlington National Cemetery in Washington or occupy honorary plots at locations such as nearby Fort Leavenworth. Until just recently, that was a possibility.

Among the backers of the bill were Sens. Pat Roberts and Sam Brownback of Kansas. Their measure, also backed by Sen. Larry Craig of Idaho, would close a loophole under current law. It requires the Defense Department and Veterans Affairs Administration to be more pro-active in checking the backgrounds of those who apply for or are chosen for military funerals. It seems certain the measure will pass the U.S. House and receive presidential approval.

Rader is an Air Force veteran who pleaded guilty to murder earlier this year and was sentenced to 175 years imprisonment for at least 10 killings. He reached the rank of sergeant and, ironically, includes the Good Conduct Medal among his other routine ribbons and medals.

The aberrant Rader made it clear not long ago that he desired to be buried in Arlington. Family members took up the cause and, under current law, Rader and other killers theoretically could be laid to rest there. Perhaps there have been others of this caliber who have slipped through the cracks of the investigation process and now are buried in places such as Arlington. If so, their presence defiles the climate of honor that should prevail for those who deserve proper silent tribute for their service to the country and to mankind.

The only thing Rader did, Air Force duty or not, was to reiterate for civilization just how horrible individuals can be. It is heavy dishonor that they richly deserve.