Original 101st Airborne warrior gone, not forgotten - VAntage Point

I lost it when he gave him a shave and the last rites.

COL David Turk - Yes. I got misty eyed myself. That level of friendship and respect makes it hard to not feel it on a personal level.

There are some who don't and won't understand. This "new breed" of warrior, I wonder if they would recognize the level of bonding that is between these two "Brothers in Arms". I understand and my heart is heavy with the knowledge that our world has given another sacrifice, never to be replicated. I've had the Honor of escorting and carrying some of the "Old Breed"; men who when the bugle sounded, rose and moved to the sounds of musketry. EVEN when they were told: "Thank you, SGMAJ, but right now we don't plan to recall Retiree's, and your Service is noted". At 70+, more than one SGMAJ and MGySGT (USMC) made those calls, ready to put on fatigues and utilities again, pick up a rifle and lead men into harm's way. With no thought as to anything except they were ready, willing and able. You haven't really felt humbled until you hold the folds of the Colors as they close a casket for the final time and you are tasked with smoothing the drape prior to final carry. How much Honor you feel knowing that you can render a Salute and a last gesture of nobility to their passage. Your heart is heavy with the loss and yet you also Thank GOD that such men lived and you were privileged to have known them. Never able to fill those big shoes they wore, but letting nothing stand in your way of seeing to it that their final moments here were cherished. To that Brother-In-Arms who fought to be there in those last minutes and to offer care, My Eternal Gratitude and Reverence, and to this Fallen Warrior of Valhalla, GOD SPEED and REST, We have the watch. Thank You, COL. Turk, for sharing this with all of us. WE REMEMBER.