Remembering those who have given all, the Honor Guard.

On this Memorial Day, I have chosen to remember those who have bravely served and given all.  The honor guard is one of the last respectful things that we do for our Veterans.  I hope you thank a Veteran today and remember those who have preceded us into the Rest of the Lord. To my Father-in-Law, my Son-in-Law and various other family and friends who have chosen to serve, I express my sincere appreciation and thankfulness.  (The information that I am reposting was shared previously after the passing of a beloved extended family member).

At the grave site, the Honor Guard was present.  I was deeply touched by the deep tradition of reverence, and respect paid to this veteran.  In researching this tradition, I found the Following from the Department of Defense:

What can the family of an eligible veteran expect? The core elements of the funeral honors ceremony, which will be conducted are:
- Flag folding
- Flag presentation
- Playing of Taps

The veteran’s parent Service representative will present the flag. 

A member of the Honor Guard related a verse that appeared to include the following words...

"On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, or Air Force), and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciate for your loved one's honorable and faithful service."

The flag is folded 13 times, and each fold has a meaning:

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life. 

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. 

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." 

The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 

The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of ourRepublic. 

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. 

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. 

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. 

When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust." After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

We do live in a nation founded in Christian Beliefs.....as noted in the meaning of the folding of the flag.  Take a moment to reflect on the goodness that you enjoy not only due to the service of our brave Military.  The Lord is mindful of us all, and we would be wise to be mindful of him in all that we do.

As you awake.....

Today is Memorial Day.  Many co-workers and friends have plans today.  I'm sure you do as well.  It is my hope and prayer that you will remember the purpose of this day which is as a "day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service".



Image Courtesy of http://www.ibiblio.org/

 I have beloved family members who have served our country in various locations.  One on the shores of Iwo Jima.  When asked if he saw the flag flying on Mount Suribachi, he said "no".  He was busy saving lives and trying to protect his own.  His service was to keep the lines of communication open and repair cables that were broken....often out in the middle of open fire.




Image Courtesy of projectwhitehourse

 Another beloved family member served in in the skies over Vietnam.  He is quiet and soft spoken. He is a gentle soul, a father and now a grandfather.  He served during a time when military members often did not receive the respect they deserved.

Saying goodbye-leaving for Afghanistan

 

Most recently, we have said goodbye to a younger family member.  He has been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and most recently to Japan. He was there during the recent Earthquake and Tsunami.  He has seen young men such as himself give the ultimate sacrifice, and has sustained injuries as well.  He is a soon-to-be-father.

Yes, as you awake this morning, consider that you can because of brave and devoted individuals such as these.  All the shopping, parades, grilling, vacationing, etc is because of our military personnel  who have chosen to serve you world-wide. 

Take a moment as a family and offer your thanks and gratitude both in word and in prayer.  Let the military folks and their families that you are acquainted with know that you are grateful for their service and sacrifice. Why..... because....

Freedom isn't really Free.....

The Return of the 4th LAR.......

The LRH had the opportunity this morning to go welcome home the 4th LAR as they returned from their tour in Afghanistan. 

We had to wait around for a while.  However, news of how close these brave young Marines came fast...and digitally.  We knew exactly where they were on I-215, then Bangetor Highway, then I-15, etc as the young Marines would text their loved ones, who would then share the information with the bystanders.

Then the buses were heard and the crowd moved quickly to meet them.

Returning Marines and loved ones rushed to see each other again.

It was loud......

......and emotional with tears, hugs, and lots of embracing....

And those who gave the ultimate sacrifice were also remembered. (We learned that the unit that replaced the 4th LAR suffered 2 casualties on their first day.  Our Utah Sons, sadly,  lost 2 brave marines a few weeks ago.  We have been blessed that so many returned home safely).

This Memorial Day, take the opportunity to thank those who have served in harms way....we owe them our all.

We will remember.....Memorial Day

Some of us know of service men and women, some know them first hand, and still others have them as family members.

My Father-in-law was a Marine in that horrific battle in Iwo Jima as a lineman. In the dark of night, they had to repair the "line" to keep communications open. They had to do it with lighters, which made them targets for the snipers. As I see my FIL as a gentle and kind individual, I cannot imagine what experiences he is choosing to take with him when he meets his eternal rest.

We also have a Son-in-law who is serving in the Marines and has already completed one tour in Iraq. He is quiet about his experiences there and chances are good that he will be called up to serve again.

It is selfless individuals such as these that have carved out the freedoms that we enjoy and count on. I hope you take a moment on this holiday to thank a service man or woman. We owe them much.