Military Funeral of a Friend of the Family

[Kizmet]

All,

Just thought like to see what the everyday american citizen has to say about our soldiers. In actions more than words this time:

What follows is a message from Vicki Pierce about her nephew James' funeral (he was serving our country in Iraq):

"I'm back, it was certainly a quick trip, but I have to also say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. There is a lot to be said for growing up in a small town in Texas. The service itself was impressive with wonderful flowers and sprays, a portrait of James, his uniform and boots, his awards and ribbons. There was lots of military brass and an eloquent Baptist preacher. There were easily 1000 people at the service, filling the church sanctuary as well as the fellowship hall and spilling out into the parking lot.

However, the most incredible thing was what happened following the service on the way to the cemetery. We went to our cars and drove to the cemetery escorted by at least 10 police cars with lights flashing and some other emergency vehicles, with Texas Rangers handling traffic. Everyone on the road who was not in the procession, pulled over, got out of their cars, and stood silently and respectfully, some put their hands over their hearts.

When we turned off the highway suddenly there were teenage boys along both sides of the street about every 20 feet or so, all holding large American flags on long flag poles, and again with their hands on their hearts. We thought at first it was the Boy Scouts or 4H club or something, but it continued .... for two and a half miles. Hundreds of young people, standing silently on the side of the road with flags. At one point we passed an elementary school, and all the children were outside, shoulder to shoulder holding flags . kindergartners, handicapped, teachers, staff, everyone. Some held signs of love and support. Then came teenage girls and younger boys, all holding flags. Then adults. Then families. All standing silently on the side of the road. No one spoke, not even the very young children.

The military presence..at least two generals, a fist full of colonels, and representatives from every branch of the service, plus the color guard which attended James, and some who served with him ... was very impressive and respectful, but the love and pride from this community who had lost one of their own was the most amazing thing I've ever been privileged to witness.

[Saltydog]

Kizmet,

How saddened I am hearing about the loss - there are no words.

It is most depressing that our country will have to sacrify our finest.

It is however uplifting that people understand and give their respect to our loved ones, who make the ultimate sacrifice for the rest of us to enjoy our lives, as we have come to take for granted.

I am heartbroken by any news of soldiers fallen in the line of duty and I keep wondering to myself when this evil will end.

With my greatest respect and sympathy,

salty

[thor]

...nice to here that people can put aside politics and just show a family respect for there lost son

[FuelPump]

My thoughts go out to all the men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan.
America is shouldering most of the burden over there, and it's important that you Yanks all know that the rest of the world is behind you (apart from a vocal minority who wouldn't have the balls to go thenselves).

Australia has been VERY lucky in that we didn't lose a single soldier or airman in the Iraq war, although our presence there was pretty limited, mostly SAS Regiment, and F/A18 crews. We've lost a few since the war, but nowhere near the numbers you guys have lost.

All the guys and girls over in that part of the world are doing a great job.

[Duke2]

Gee Kiz - I don't know what to say. When I read your post, I was in suspended animation. Yes it makes me happy to be an American. Home of the free , and the Brave. God Bless America, and God Bless our service men and women, who are making the Ultimate sacrafice for us, and the ( World ) They still lern young over here. It trully is a Sad Day for the loved ones, and friends.


Have a Happy

[mevan]

Well I all I can say is "Lest We Forget"

[shifty]

people that put foot to ass for our country(s) are what makes america( and the free world) such a great place to live.

[Reddog]

S! to James I thank you for your service to this country. Them texans know how to do things right. And a big S! to all our armed forces in harm's way.

[Tzulscha]

Salute to James!