Yesterday our Legion post honored a departed soldier. Thomas died in Florida, but his ashes were consecrated here. To avoid controversy, I won't mention any part I had in the ceremony, but a touching part by God or nature .
Then came time for our firing squad and the 21 gun salute.
Take note; the cemetery is in a small town about 16 miles from my house. It is located upon a hill, in a grove of maple trees, which have been at their golden peak for about two weeks now, and ready to fall.
Our firing squad stood in their dark blue uniforms, under a large and particularly beautiful maple tree. The post commander and I stood in salute, eyes fixed upon the team. ...The command to raise arms came..7 M1 grands went to 7 shoulders...
Just as the command to "fire" was given, a sudden autumn gust came up and showered golden leaves down upon the squad, as the rifles boomed..
Sadly, no videographer was present...it would have been beautiful.. Nonetheless, Thomas' family was pleased with the salutation.
