Valued_Memories

Valued Memories I sit on the freshly cut green grass among many, thousands of stones. The wind blows softly over my face bringing the sweet smell of the grass to my nose. The sun is shining brightly today, casting shadows from the billowing trees and white stones all around me. This is a different day from a little over a year ago, for today I celebrate my grandfather’s birthday with memories of love and laughter. My grandfather, a large, burly man, but loving and kind hearted passed away two years ago this coming October. The last time I sat in this beautiful spot was on December 23, 2009, I was here to be witness to my grandfather’s burial at Arlington National Cemetery. The day was a snowy-white, bone chilling morning, but this day I felt somewhat numb to everything around me. I listen quietly to the rumble of several drums in the background; I look up and notice the neatly dressed military band. The decorated band begins to play military hymns as the quite crackling of snow is heard from the many feet of family and many friends walking silently toward the caisson as they present arms. The clopping sound of horses hooves are heard from the casket team, the Chaplin and other military men present come to attention with a sharp snap, of a salute and then the casket is gently placed on a horse drawn carriage. The procession is a slow, crisp walk down Patton Drive. Walking gives me a glimpse to what is around me. The stones marking the many men and women, who have served, blend in with the fresh, clean scent of the newly fallen white snow. We reach his final resting place. The brown, smoothly polished casket is placed under the white canopy tent. The casket team secures the American flag, stretched out and level; centered and placed proudly over my grandfather. The low, caring voice of the Military Chaplin flows through my ears, as he honors us with a military service. This final message to the family brings tears to my already swollen, tear filled eyes. What I thought was my last tears of grief, was really a sense of pride that overcame me as I looked out over the hundreds and thousands of other white stones. Suddenly a slight breeze passes over my chilled cheeks yet I feel such a sense of warmth. I believe my grandfather was telling me all is well. Click, clank, click, I hear the rifle team present arms an initiate the rifle volley. The brilliant sound of taps, the casket teams quick, fluent snapping of their shoes, and the gentle release and folding of the American flag in a quick and efficient. The Chaplin salutes and presents the flag to my family. Carrying a single, delicate red rose, with the scent of spring, and meaning of love, I place the favorite flower of my grandfather on his casket. I slowly and peacefully walk away, now knowing I have a place of serenity to visit my grandfather. So I sit here upon the green grass and quietly reflect the many joyous memories and stories that my grandfather shared with me. I also reflect on the many men and women who have served their country. It is truly an amazing sight to look across Arlington Cemetery and see the pride and honor that each stone holds in the life and history of our country.