Putting a Hero to Rest

There really is nothing like putting a Veteran to rest. I work in Minnesota and the national cemetery that we use here is Fort Snelling. At first glance, you see rows and rows (and rows and rows) of white headstones. It looks like a very melancholy mass grave. Take a closer look and you will see pride, dedication, and hard work. Every single headstone belongs to a man or woman of duty. Being buried at a national cemetery is a free right given to all honorably discharged veterans. At Fort Snelling, they will also bury with full military honors and allow the family to have a private memorial. I always tear up when the guns go off and they hand the flag to the next of kin. It is such a strong symbol of the gratitude these people have for the deceased's service. If you have never seen a military service or cemetery, I urge you to go out and visit one. The grounds are lovely and it is very interesting to look around and marvel at how many individuals have proudly served our country. Thank a veteran. Even if it's not a holiday, do it anyway.