I have never been in the situation where your whole world comes crashing down when someone you know and love is killed, wounded, or lost in service of my country, and I could never understand what it must be like. Hollywood tries to give us a sense of the feeling through movies like "The Messenger", "We Were Soldiers", and "Taking Chance", but while you have that sense for a brief moment, these widows, widowers, orphans, and the like don't get to leave those feelings behind at the theater. This year, I went to the annual Memorial Day service at our city's cemetery to honor those who died, served, or who have yet to come home. It was a moving experience for me last year when my daughter took part in posting the flags at veterans' graves with her girl scouts, and this year was really no different. I was by myself, just shooting some pictures and thinking of all those who were there remembering their loved ones. As I was listening to the speakers reciting the Gettysburg Address, dedications, and reading the roll call of the vets that passed away this year, I saw the family of one soldier, Cpl. Neal, who recently died in Afghanistan in April. The community came out in force for his homecoming and lined both sides of the road from the Airport to his hometown for miles and miles. All of a sudden, the service really took on a new meaning as I could see for myself the anguish that lingers after the Last Full Measure of devotion is given. I thought that this shot of the flag near the veteran's grave meant a lot to me as it symbolized the gratitude I have for all of those in service today, along with those who died. Thank you.
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