A New Point of View
Yesterday I attended a funeral at 'Arlington National Cemetary'... It was a humbling and profound experience. I've been to 'Arlington' on several occassions, always as a tourist, anticipating a day of sightseeing. Don't get me wrong, I've always approached 'Arlington' with the reverence and solemninity that it deserves... Today however, I was privy to a whole new point of view.
It's a completely different feeling to pull up to the front gate at 'Arlington' rather than head straight for the tourist parking lot. It was quite surreal to walk into the administration building and be escorted to an elegantly appointed waiting room. Within the room was a flat panel television on the wall airing a live feed of the guard protecting the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier'... A few years ago I watched a PBS show about 'Arlington'. It went into great detail about the strict code that is followed by the servicemen who guard the 'Unknowns'... A family member shared with us yesterday that not long ago during 'Hurricane Rita' (?), the winds were gusting upwards of 65 mph and for the safety of the guards they were going to pull them from the duty of protecting the 'Unknowns Tomb'... Appearantly the guards refused to step down and weathered the storm to protect their fallen brothers. I find it hard to imagine that kind of stoicism... But then I can't even fathom the bravery it must take to march into battle knowing you may have to give your life or take the life of another.
The service was beautiful... Filled with the symbols of honor and tradition. The 6 pall-bearers in full dress blues, carried the coffin up the hill to its final resting place with amazing precision. There was a 21 gun salute along with an officer playing Taps on bugle. The flag, carefully draped over the coffin was held aloft by the 6 officers throughout the short service and then carefully folded with the care and respect I wish everyone would show for that great symbol of our nation. It was then reverantly handed to our cousin along with condolences from the head officer. The feeling of pride for my country and for those who serve her so honorably is one I will remember every time I visit Arlington. My thanks goes out to those caretakers of our fallen heroes and the grace with which they so admirably serve them.
It's a completely different feeling to pull up to the front gate at 'Arlington' rather than head straight for the tourist parking lot. It was quite surreal to walk into the administration building and be escorted to an elegantly appointed waiting room. Within the room was a flat panel television on the wall airing a live feed of the guard protecting the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier'... A few years ago I watched a PBS show about 'Arlington'. It went into great detail about the strict code that is followed by the servicemen who guard the 'Unknowns'... A family member shared with us yesterday that not long ago during 'Hurricane Rita' (?), the winds were gusting upwards of 65 mph and for the safety of the guards they were going to pull them from the duty of protecting the 'Unknowns Tomb'... Appearantly the guards refused to step down and weathered the storm to protect their fallen brothers. I find it hard to imagine that kind of stoicism... But then I can't even fathom the bravery it must take to march into battle knowing you may have to give your life or take the life of another.
The service was beautiful... Filled with the symbols of honor and tradition. The 6 pall-bearers in full dress blues, carried the coffin up the hill to its final resting place with amazing precision. There was a 21 gun salute along with an officer playing Taps on bugle. The flag, carefully draped over the coffin was held aloft by the 6 officers throughout the short service and then carefully folded with the care and respect I wish everyone would show for that great symbol of our nation. It was then reverantly handed to our cousin along with condolences from the head officer. The feeling of pride for my country and for those who serve her so honorably is one I will remember every time I visit Arlington. My thanks goes out to those caretakers of our fallen heroes and the grace with which they so admirably serve them.
posted by EmBee at 10:47 PM
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