| Ripped Bag |
Hey,
Arriving at the service you first have a few practice runs just like with everything else. You notice everything that is around you. To your front are the flags of the soldier's countries that are here serving along side you with the American flag flying the highest. directly in front of those flags is a small stage, and on the stage are the kevlar, rifle, dog tags, and boots of the fallen soldier. The boots are standing straight as though they are worn, with the rifle muzzle down in between the boots. The kevlar with the soldiers rank is placed atop the rifle with the dog tags hanging around where the neck would be. There is chatter in the background from those not standing in the formation. However all that are in formation remain solemn throughout the entire ordeal.
You're called to attention as the national anthem is played and you salute until it is finished. The biographies of the fallen are read, and remarks made by those he served with and those who knew him and were closest to him. Awards are then placed on the soldier's kevlar helmet by the Commanding General and Command Sergeant Major. Taps is played and then words by the Chaplain are said. Directly following is Amazing Grace being played on the Bag Pipes. You're called to attention one last time and then dismissed, but this isn't the end of the procession for the soldier. Each soldier one by one goes to the front in a single file line and renders one last salute to the fallen soldiers. And then I left.
However I can still see the remnants of the procession still there out of the side window of my building. The line is long and goes on for hundreds of feet. There are many soldiers out there waiting to render the soldiers their final salute. Onlooking civillians bowing their heads and saying a a prayer or two for the families and for the soldiers. Pictures being taken by numerous people all around the area. The men and women that were on the team of those that have fallen sit on the side heads bowed and waiting some talking amongst each other but mostly remaining silent. Tears streaking down the face of the soldiers and civillians around the area, but heads kept low so that you can't see the tears.
Take a moment or two of silence for those soldiers that have fallen if you will. Their faces will forever remain emblazened in my memory. I know that no one will ever forget who they were or what sacrifices they made. For those of you that are former Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Royal Marines, or Airman I ask that when you see the American flag, or your countries flag flying you salute and take the extra moment to remember those of us that are still serving, remember those that have fallen.
Fred |
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