The father of a friend lost his battle to cancer in February. The friend is one of our groomsmen, and Nick referred to his father as “Major Dad” since he was a teenager. I was fortunate to have met Mr. D a handful of times, and he lived up to the name.
Two weeks ago we traveled to Arlington to honor Mr. D as only the military can. (Arlington hosts over 20 funerals every day.) The forecast called for rain, but it couldn’t have been a more lovely afternoon. The sun shone through the blossoming trees and onto the rows of white grave markers.
After gathering in an administrative building on the cemetery grounds, the 150-or-so guests formed a procession of cars to the grave site. When we arrived we were met by at least 50 uniformed members of the Marine Corps, along with a military band. We watched in silence as the coffin was lifted out of the hearst and placed onto a horse-drawn caisson (a two-wheeled cart designed to carry ammunition). It was one of those emotional moments that just cannot be described: the soldiers, the horses, the American flag draped over the casket, the bright sun, the soft sound of the wind in the trees. Just so moving.
We were escorted from there by the horses, the soldiers, the chaplain, and the beating drum to the grave site while tourists paused from sightseeing to show respect.
After the chaplain and minister said a few words, seven riflemen fired their guns — the 3-volley salute (which I originally thought was the 21-gun salute but later learned is reserved for heads of state and high ranking officials).
And then came “Taps.” The crisp chords of the solitary bugle echoed across the cemetery. I don’t think there was a dry eye among us.
The strong, solemn pallbearers surrounding the casket then began the ceremonial folding of the flag. They gracefully waved their white-gloved hands and gathered the corners of the flag in perfect unison. It was then presented to Mrs. D, and these words were spoken:
“As a representative of the United States Marines, it is my high privilege to present you this flag. Let it be a symbol of the grateful appreciation this nation feels for the distinguished service rendered to our country and our flag by your loved one.”
Each General then removed his white gloves to shake the hands of our friend and his younger brother.
What an absolutely beautiful final farewell and paying of respect to “Major Dad.”
Hey! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after reading through some of the post I realized it’s new to me.
Nonetheless, I’m definitely glad I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!