The Defense Department recently lifted a controversial ban on photos of caskets, or "transfer cases", of soldiers killed in action. I am glad the ban was lifted. I find the quiet ceremony of care shown by the transfer teams to the fallen soldiers to be a very moving tribute. The photos always make me stop and reflect on the young life that has passed away.
I fly to other places for work, and usually see dozens of soldiers at airports along the way, going from place to place in their desert fatigues and matching backpacks. Always the anthropologist, I can tell whether or not they are coming or going by the condition of their boots. Old boots give me a feeling of relief. New boots make me want to say something profound - but what would be the right thing to say? So many of them really are just kids.
have you watched the HBO film with Kevin Bacon "Taking Chance"? ....very touching.
http://www.hbo.com/films/takingchance/
Posted by: Stevi | June 11, 2009 at 05:39 AM
Reminds me of why I admire you so much.
Posted by: William W. Overbey | June 07, 2009 at 05:56 AM