A Commander’s Last Walk
The military is abundant with traditions, ceremony and pageantry, but most of all and foremost is traditions. Having had the privilege and honor to work among so many military units over the last decade plus, I’ve been exposed to many traditions that are memorable and stand out in my mind.
Recently I was in Arlington National Cemetery following up on taking headstone photos of final honors I had photographed when off in the distance was an Old Guard Soldier along with a woman who I later found out was his wife.
She was taking photos of him standing next to a headstone and as I approached, I engage them in conversation with a question about did the bus leave without you? “No sir.” was the reply, “This was my last final honors and I’m being transferred, so I’ll walk out of the cemetery. ”
With camera in hand, I offered to take a few photographs of him and his bride. With that done, they began their walk back to Fort Myer passing the many heroes who are nestled in perpetual sleep among the acres of Arlington. Thank you Soldier… Thank you for your service.
GHTime Code(s): nc
Related posts:
Tags: Arlington National Cemetery, Fort Myer, Old Guard, tradition, US Army
