I went to the funeral for the brother of a dear friend and co worker today. He died in Afghanistan serving our country. He was 33 years old, and left behind a wife and two small children so that he could protect our freedom. The service was solemn and fitting...the burial was awe inspiring. From the fly over to the gun salute to the playing of taps to seeing a Marine touch the casket on his way out and murmuring "I love you, Bubba."
It was emotional and it was somehow uplifting. In the procession to the cemetery...people not only pulled their cars over, but got out of them and stood saluting this young man , standing outside of their vehicle. Women with their hand over their hearts... all of them showing the respect that this soldier deserves.
The pall bearers were his closest buddies and how they made it through this ordeal with grace and discipline is a tribute to their training and dedication . I personally thanked every one of them that I passed , gave them a hug and told them how very much they were appreciated and how proud I am to be an American with men and women that are dedicated to keeping my own family safe.
Now starts the true grieving period. Every one goes home, goes back to their lives.
Whenever you see a person in a military uniform...go give that person a hug or a handshake and thank them for fighting for your country.
The loss this family feels is overwhelming I am sure, but the gratitude for their son and brother's service fills my heart and truly does make me proud to be an American and to have been fortunate enough to witness his final home "going"...He is truly at home now in the arms of our Saviour. Peace be with him and the loved ones he has left behind.
Thank you, Sgt. Shawn P. McCloskey....
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