Fallen Comrades

POST FOR 09 SEPTEMBER

I just participated in something by complete happenstance, but something that I am utterly grateful for having done. I was sitting in the terminal at Bagram, waiting for my flight to Qatar when we were told there was to be a ceremony outside and that if we weren't engaged in something, to go outside.

By now, most of you have probably seen that a roadside bomb killed 16 people, including 2 US soldiers yesterday(8 Sept) in Kabul.

We all lined up outside, and it just so happened that Steve and I were the last two guys on one side of the road, right before the flight line.As we looked up the road, it was lined as far as you could see with people. The entire base was involved in this evolution, and it was incredibly moving. As we stood there, a police escort drove by, followed by two Humvee's each carrying one metal coffin draped in an American flag. As the first escort approached, each group of soldiers, airmen and sailors saluted in unison. It was very touching, very somber and puts everything in perspective.

You hear the phrase "ultimate sacrifice" often, today it hit me in the head.

Not a great way to start a "vacation" but it will keep me grounded.