In the burial of a soldier, there is a process. A process that can seem sometimes a bit extreme to some, just what we should do to others, and yet not at all enough for what each soldier sacrifices so that each of us may live in freedom. This process is tedious. This process is long. This process is precise. This process is thorough. This process is one that a funeral director dreads and yet is honored to be a part. This process is one that, for those involved, will be cherished for a lifetime to be able to experience and say that they had a small part in the honoring of a soldier's passing.
Today, Thursday, December 4, 2008 at approximately 5:05 PM, I received a call I had expected all day concerning the burial of a soldier who died on Thanksgiving Day. However, I expected the call to be from the Casualty Assistance Sergeant that I had been dealing with all week on the case. I expect much less formal of a call. I expected less, I don't know why, considering it's the US Army, but I did. Much to my surprise, I received a call from a Captain at the Pentagon that simply asked for me when calling the funeral home. I answered and was asked "Mr. Dutton, are you the funeral director for SPC (undisclosed name)" to which I answered, "yes ma'am." She then went on to inform me of my duty to this soldier which was scheduled for me by the United States Department of the Army.
Turns out, since I was the fortunate director to serve this family, I am automatically assigned the duty of seeing this soldier from DFW International Airport, from the plane on the tarmac with Honor Guard and Highway Patrol escort, from DFW back to this soldier's home in Wichita Falls at a very specific time on Sunday, whether I wanted to, had other plans, or not.
I must say that I was taken back at the responsibility, but am completely humbled and honored to do so; to serve this family and this soldier in this capacity.
What other country in the world is this respectful and loving of their military. I'll say it, NONE other! I am heartbroken for the family, but am honored that I am the "chosen one" to assist them at this time.
-approved by Farley Wells, CMDI.
5 comments:
Whoa! That IS a special honor. Do it with pride and excellence as you always do.
I cannot think of anyone more qualified to take care of this soldier than you. You will take care of him and the family with the greatest of care and dignity! God bless you as you serve this family of an American Soldier!
Wow, what an honor!!!
I, too, cannot think of anyone more capable to perform this duty. I'm always impressed by your quality of performace concerning any funeral you and your family have conducted. Good for you, Lynn!
Hold your head up high as a soldier standing at attention. Honor and service with Pride and Respect. You are the best qualified and the best representative for the Funeral Profession.
Honor the soldier for his service to our Country. The branch of service doesn't matter (eventho the Army is the best).
Always adhere to the statement President John F. Kennedy made "Ask not what your Country can do for you, but what you can do for your Country".
REMEMBER: "He's not heavy, He's my brother"
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