On This Memorial Day

As I lie in bed and close this Memorial Day, I find myself engrossed in unforgettable memories of those I had the honor and privilege to serve just over 3 years ago.   Memorial Day 2013 was the first time I had ever participated in a dignified transfer.  A dignified transfer is the process by which the remains of a fallen hero are transported back home to their final resting place.  I'll borrow an excerpt from my blog on that day...

"The flight line illuminated with runway lights as A-10s, Chinooks, and C-17s both landed and disappeared into the night.  But it was on particular C-130 that arrived, taxied, and halted amongst us, poised to receive its next delivery.  300 strong stood in formation as the procession drew near.  We were commanded to attention as the band initiated the ceremony.  Our tear-stained cheeks glistened in the moonlight, as the flag-draped casket made its way toward the bird.  It was escorted by 8 of this fallen warrior's comrades....honorable soldiers who never dreamt of filling this duty.  Tonight was his night....his night to return home".

Less than a month later, on 18 June, 4 Soldiers lost their lives during a rocket attack on Bagram Air Base....William Moody, Robert Ellis, Justin Johnson, and Ember Ault.  I was one of the first responders to the Emergency Room entry way known as Warriors Way.  Out here, you do whatever needs to be done, regardless of the circumstances.  I carried each of them through those doors, prepared them, and transferred them to mortuary affairs.  Never have I performed a duty that has touched me more than that one.  I am forever grateful to them for making the ultimate sacrifice for me.  http://bucytobagram.blogspot.com/2013/06/to-william-ember-robert-and-justin-i.html

Unfortunately in life, some of the most important lessons are learned during the most difficult times.  I alluded to this a little bit in my last post.  It's impossible to understand what it's like to hug your loved ones for what could be the last time, until you have to.  What was the last conversation you had with them?  Was it an argument?  Was it pleasant?  Was it the way you would want them to remember you?  If you died right now, would they know you loved them?  These 4 Soldiers taught me something that night that I will never forget.  It impacted my soul.  It changed the way I parent.  It changed the way I love.  It changed me as a father and as a person.  Each and every day we have with those we love, is a blessing.  We never know when the string of life will be cut.  Hug them.  Hold them.  Tell them you love them.  Please do not take it for granted.

So on this day, do more than celebrate the booze and brats.  Celebrate those who have died and given us the freedoms we enjoy.  Remember them.  Do something to honor them.  Here in Baghdad, I have the distinct privilege of serving those who are out in the fight everyday.  It's not glorious.  No bullets buzz my head (just the occasional rocket).  I'm no hero.  But I do what I can to make sure they have the medical care they need as fast as I can get them to it.  While Iraq is certainly no getaway destination, I love what I do.  I love being here.  I love my mission.  I love serving these warriors every single day.  I love knowing that my children can look at me with pride, and can go to school and brag to their friends that they have a dad who fights for this country.  A dad who's put his life on the line in Afghanistan and Iraq to fight for our freedoms.  Because.....'Murica