Baffled

Yesterday’s post was pretty short and random so I’d like to go into a little more detail regarding the funeral for the soldier as there are still a few things bugging me.


First, I have to say the Patriot Guard riders who escorted his body home, stood guard outside the funeral, led the procession, and surrounded his burial did an amazing service and I’m always thankful and overcome when I see them traveling down the road, carrying the flag. I remember the very first time I saw them or even heard about them was when K returned home from his deployment and they escorted their buses all the way home from when they crossed into our state (some 400 miles). It was quite a site to see. Then I was overjoyed, this time it was heartbreaking.

Second, the chaplain from the 82nd said a very nice eulogy for the soldier and the pallbearers handled themselves and the soldier with respect and dignity. I know my friend was very touched by their careful consideration of her Soldier and his family. They took several moments to speak privately with each family member and my friend and she was very comforted by what they said.

Third, and the reason for the title of this post, was that I could not believe that the guests at the funeral were taking pictures. I understand that the news was there to film the funeral and burial, but actual family/friend guests were taking pictures. I can only assume that it is because this is a military funeral and they were photographing the soldiers. We don’t have an active post anywhere around here, so it’s still a novelty to see soldiers dressed up in Dress Blues or Class A’s. I just couldn’t understand why a guest would do this. Maybe I’m only thinking of one angle here, but I find it extremely disrespectful and upsetting. At one point when I heard the woman behind me’s camera turn on I turned around and gave her a “look.” Would you do this at any other funeral? I was so relieved when the pastor told a few guests to put their camera away during the chaplain’s eulogy.