Monday, August 8, 2011

Dignified Transfer

Dignified Transfer.  Bringing home the remains of our fallen military.  It's one of the best (and only) things we can do for those who have given us their ultimate sacrifice to insure our freedom.  And it's a small token of appreciation, of respect and empathy, to show the families of our fallen.

I'm humbled by the 30 bodies being flown into Dover AFB this week after the helicopter crash in Afghanistan last Friday.  In-your-face proof that my freedom, our freedom, has a heavy price.  Their sacrifice falls on a grateful heart.

I'm saddened by the almost constant flight of helicopters and jets over my house, bringing Generals and other dignitaries to Dover in preparation for the arrival of the fallen and their families.  Did you know every single body is received by active duty airmen, sailors, or soldiers and a General from their specific branch of the military? They're transferred to mortuary services, cleaned and prepared, and flown home with an active duty escort to be buried.  If you haven't seen Taking Chance you should.  It chronicles such a trip home and highlights the truth that the loss of a warrior is not just a family's loss, but a nation's loss.

I'm heartbroken for the families whose lives will never be the same.  Parents, siblings, spouses, children, all gathered on the tarmac as their loved one's remains are carried out of the belly of a plane, draped with an American flag, carried by the somber white gloves of comrades.  Their sacrifice is just as great.

I'm proud to be part of a military community that takes such care in dignified transfer, proud of my husband who is playing a small role in the supervision of tomorrow's homecoming, proud of his commanders who have spent all their time and energy since Friday planning the most appropriate tribute to our fallen and their families.  It's the least we can do to show respect.  Notice here, on the left, how often dignified transfers are still happening, and see below what care is given to each.



I don't write this to spark political opinion or debate over the war.  I write this to convey my profound sense of gratitude to those who have served, are serving, or will serve me . . . you . . . the nation.  I write this to take ownership of my freedom.  For their sacrifice is not lost on me.


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