There was an honor guard, provided by a local veterans organization. They fired a salute and folded a flag, presenting it to his survivors. He wasn't currently married and had no children, so his sister took possession of the flag. I wore my Cav hat, out of respect After the ceremony, I thanked the honor guard for their service. They told me it was an honor and a a privilege to serve deceased veterans, to show the last measure of respect to veterans.
One thing I found interesting during the sad, somber event, was the rifles that they sued to honor the dead. They used Garands.
Veterans die, just like everyone else. It's comforting to know that veteran organizations exist to provide that last measure of respect. They provide pride and dignity to what otherwise might only be a sad and somber event. If you ever see these guys at a funeral, go over and thank them. They provide an invaluable service.
4 comments:
I am a member of the Patriot Guard Riders. We provide motorcycle and flagged vehicle funeral escorts as well as stand flag lines for wakes, funerals, and burials. Sometimes just one, sometimes the whole service for the better part of a couple of days off and on. So be it. It could be for military, firefighter, LEO, or other 1st Responder. We also do special missions, like Honor Flights to the WWII Memorial, service member remains arrivals, military send-offs and homecomings, and other memorials/functions our presence is requested at. Every one of us is proud, humbled, and honored to do it. We arrive before the mourners, and leave when they are gone. We roast in the sun, get soaked in the rain, and freeze our butts off in the winter. The thing that makes it all worthwhile, is how appreciative the families are, and that we were a part of honoring their hero.
The Patriot Guard Riders only come when we are invited by the family, we do not just show up. You do not need to be a veteran or ride a motorcycle. There are no meetings, fees, dues, or minimum requirements. All you need is RESPECT. Sign up for the email alerts and come when you can. A briefing is held at the start of each mission so everyone knows what to do. Because of where I live, I get to participate in three states.
Our Legion Post uses 03 bolt guns.
I have, and will in the future.
Our Legion post uses Garands as well. We always clean them on the house at the shop.
Post a Comment