A couple of weeks ago I watched the movie, Taking Chance, on HBOC. It was the story of a fallen soldier's return for burial. It followed him as he was taken care of in Dover and then the trip to his family in Montana. Kevin Bacon stars as the escort officer. It is a moving, touching and respectful film. There is no political slant one way or the other, it simply depicts the reverence and care with which KIA's are treated. Chance Phelps is treated with dignity and respect, and his story is told the same way.
The film moved me and caused me to think about how often such a similar story is being told throughout the world. Whether it is the US, Canada, England, Australia or any other country, our fallen soldiers should be treated with respect and dignity. When I saw the film, my first thought was that this was a fine tribute film that should be shown on Remembrance Day.
Nov 11 is Remembrance Day in the commonwealth. Elsewhere, it is known as Veteran's Day. This morning, as I walked down the street, I saw people wearing their poppies. It is a symbol of remembrance for those we lost in various conflicts throughout the world. Centotaphs and memorials abound to honour those who were lost in the wars. 'Lest We Forget' is the mantra for this day. We should never forget the sacrifices made by these brave, young people to preserve liberty and freedom. It is a day to honour their commitment to duty and country, not to bicker about 'why' they were there and what their sacrifices meant.
There are few WWI vets still living, same with WWII and Korea. Vietnam veteran's are getting older. These ceremonies held throughout the land give us a chance to remember the past and, hopefully, remember the sacrifice.
At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, two minutes of silence is not too much to ask. For me, it's an opportunity to say, to those who have served before and who serve now, and to their families left behind,
Thank You
thank you for your honour and dignity,
thank you for your unwavering commitment and courage
thank you for your sacrifice.
We shall never forget
A Pittance of Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kX_3y3u5Uo
Soldiers Cry
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1TuDpDHAJM