February 9, 2009.
Then I learned more. Will was the one who identified the bodies at the hospital. This threw my stomach in turns again. My sweet husband’s beautiful brown eyes were the ones that saw these damaged bodies of his fellow soldiers, his brothers. Such a horrific sight cannot possibly ever be forgotten. I wanted to turn back time, erase this pain, remove such sadness and grief from his mind, from the entire battalion, and from all the families.
Then I learned that he almost went on that convoy that killed our heroes. He wouldn’t have been in that same vehicle, but likely the one behind it. He said it was a very frequently-traveled road. Reality has set in for me.
I asked about the ramp ceremony. In his own words:
I led the whole battalion information to the ramp of the aircraft, positioned myself front and center of the ramp, and waited for everyone to get into position. Once the 4 FLAs (Field Ambulances) positioned themselves and the pallbearers unloaded the transfer cases, I marched out to meet them halfway down the run way. Once they got close to me, I did an about face and led the procession through the “honor corridor” (made by a split battalion formation on either side) to the ramp while reading Psalm 23 out loud. Once we got to the ramp, I paused for them to get into position, and then moved into the belly of the aircraft. The caskets then came one by one up into the aircraft and I said one last prayer for our fallen comrades. Then I called the pallbearer detail to execute a salute, facing movement, and then forward march out of the plane. After that, the CSM called the battalion to gather around and gave a pretty inspiring speech. Then I closed out with one last prayer/blessing to those there. We concluded the ceremony by me leading the formation off of the tarmac. It was pretty moving, and I think we carried it out close to perfection.
I have been proud of Will many, many times in my life. However, I have NEVER been more proud of him than I am today. He has performed his chaplain duties with such patience, comfort, and compassion. He is empty, drained, exhausted, and mourning… but Christ is his rock and because of that, Will is being a rock to his brothers.
God is the same today as He was before Monday. He is still good. He still reigns. He is with us and with them. Good CAN come out of such a tragedy.
Lord, thank you that your goodness and sovereignty never change. Help me see your purpose in the midst of pain.
“May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.” (Psalm 33:22)