Today...
 

...I had the honor of flying the remains of a young Marine who gave his life in defense of our nation.

The flight was uneventful until the moment we arrived at our destination. As we approached the gate, we saw the white hearse, the vans and Port Police vehicles awaiting our arrival.

As the Marine Honor Guard lined up along side the belt loader to bear this young man to his final resting place, what struck me was the reaction inside the terminal. Silence fell as the travelers, vacationers, rampers and anyone within view was drawn to the windows to watch as the casket was transferred to the waiting hearse.

Now, I've airlifted military casualties before. I have to admit that this was the most moving experience I've had in a long, long time. Enroute I had a long time to consider the incredible sacrifices our young servicemen, women and their families give America every day of their lives. I just hope EVERYONE who witnessed the event considered what those sacrifices can mean.

Regardless of your political persuasion, we owe these brave young people a huge debt of gratitude. They're in Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, Alaska, Iceland, Diego Garcia and a hundred other places making sure we can go about our daily lives without considering the dark side of life.

The young Marine I brought home today faced the dark side and paid the ultimate price. I just thank God that America can still produce young people with this kind of steel in their souls.

Thank you, my young friend, for your service. You will always be a hero to me and you will be sorely missed.

Where do we get such men?

My fervent hope is that all of us at home may prove worthy of your selfless sacrifice.

I served as an honor guard several times. That was hard duty.

Fish, Nice post!:)


Fred

Very true. People often forget that besides a Kardashian getting engaged or a Lohan getting drunk that men and women are still being killed everyday.

Cheers. And it's a safe bet that we won't see either or thier enourage in ACU's any time soon. Let alone the hope that either ever pauses to consider what it means to actually earn the right to be able to collect thier paycheck. Semper Fi Devil Dog, there's an ice cold beer waiting for you in Tunn Tavern.