I haven't forgotten...have you?

Today while driving to work, the disc jockeys on one of the local stations read an e-mail sent to them from a solider at Fort Stewart. The soldier's e-mail wondered at the media attention given to the death of Michael Jackson. While the solider acknowledge Jackson's accolades and accomplishment, the solider was left to wonder why some who simple entrained us is given such honor in his death, when the very men and women who die for our freedom are often overlooked. The solider (and I as well) was outraged that Congress would hold a moment of silence of Jackson, but not for each and every solider that has lost their life in defense of our freedom.

These thoughts were floating in my mind as I opened my e-mail this morning. I was saddened at the thought that Americans had become so callous that we have forgotten our soldiers. And then I read this e-mail:

"Killed in action the week before, the body of Staff Sergeant First Class John C. Beale was returned to Falcon Field in Peachtree City , Georgia , just south of Atlanta , on June 11, 2009. The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough , Georgia . A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time. This was filmed during the procession by a State Trooper.
Nowadays one can be led to believe that America no longer respects honor and no longer honors sacrifice outside the military. Be it known that there are many places in this land where people still recognize the courage and impact of total self-sacrifice. Georgia remains one of those graceful places.

The link below is a short travelogue of that day's remarkable and painful journey. But only watch this if you wish to have some of your faith in people restored. Please share widely. Click on the link below to see the procession. Very touching.

http://blip.tv/play/AYGJ5h6YgmE "

I watched the video in its entirety - and I cried. I grieved for the loss of another American live, and I was moved by the outpouring of support for this man's family and friends. I am proud to know that not everyone has forgotten how to honor the sacrifice of our soldiers.