Arlington National Cemetery Funeral

We had visited Arlington National Cemetery in the past but never attended a funeral there. It was a most solemn and beautiful day.

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After some morning rain, the sky brightened to a lovely shade of blue and the dark clouds gave way to sun. It seemed so fitting, as if God was smiling with approval as we gathered to honor a Navy Chaplain and his lifetime of service.

Service to his country. Service to his family. Service to the Veterans that he loved so dearly. And, above all, service to his Lord and Savior.

Security at Arlington National Cemetery

Raindrops fell as we arrived at the gate to Arlington National Cemetery and went through security.

It was still drizzling when we entered the Fort Myer Old Post Chapel for service.

A beautiful chapel known for it’s unique stained glass windows.

The weather cleared as the walkers prepared to follow the caisson and others followed in cars. With full military honors, the casket was carried by a horse drawn caisson.

Making our way to the grave-site.

The military band in the lead. Notice in this photo, the horses on the left have riders while the horses on the right are only saddled, stemming from the days when the horses on the right were typically carrying ammunition.

Arrival at the gravesite.

Navy Band on left.

The 3-volley rifle salute

The sounding of Taps

Folding of the flag

A moving moment as a son presents the flag covering the casket of his father to his mother.

This God-honoring man served as a US Navy Chaplain for twenty six years. He served on numerous ships, at Naval bases, and with the US Marine Corps. He also served two tours in Vietnam. Upon retirement, he established a counseling service where he served as Director and focused on treating veterans with combat related issues. His love for veterans and their love for him is part of his legacy.

He was a friend to all, and John and I have been blessed to call him our friend.

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I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith

2 Timothy 4:7

His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!

Matthew 25:23

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Comments

marie says
July 18, 2015 at 1:03 am
Such a lovely tribute. I am so grateful for those who serve our country…thanks so much for sharing this today.
Ann Thompson says
July 17, 2015 at 9:59 pm
a fitting farewell to someone who served so faithfully
Nonnie says
July 17, 2015 at 12:45 am
And the photos are beautiful!
Nonnie says
July 17, 2015 at 12:45 am
What a beautiful tribute to your dear friend. I am so thankful for those who serve. I am sorry for your loss and his family's loss, but rejoice that he knew the Lord and is now with Him in perfect peace.
Maryann says
July 16, 2015 at 9:28 pm
A beautiful post and tribute to your dear friend
podso says
July 16, 2015 at 5:45 pm
A beautiful tribute to a man who served our country well. It's so nice you could be a part of it and bring him honor.
Sharon - creativity and family says
July 16, 2015 at 3:41 pm
Such a beautiful post and so special that you were able to be there. How wonderful to be able to say at the close of someone's life, they served faithfully. x
Sharon - creativity and family says
July 16, 2015 at 3:41 pm
Such a beautiful post and so special that you were able to be there. How wonderful to be able to say at the close of someone's life, they served faithfully. x
Debbie says
July 16, 2015 at 2:28 pm
A lovely and fitting ceremony for one who gave his life to the service of others. I love to hear of these special people being honored the way they should be. I am sorry for the loss of your friend, but rejoice for his entrance into heaven!
corners of my life says
July 16, 2015 at 12:33 pm
What a lovely post and perfect photo.
God was smiling with approval indeed.

Security at Arlington National Cemetery