Bugle & Bagpipes

I write this post with a heavy heart at the loss of a fellow comrade in arms.  SGT Joseph A. Ford from B Troop, 1-152 Cav was killed in a vehicle accident on 10 MAY 2008.  Attending the ceremony was a first for me as I had never had the honor of attending a “Last Roll Call” ceremony for a fallen soldier in combat.  I did not personally know SGT Ford, but had seen him around as both our Troops were co-located.  As each successive level of command took their turns saying their goodbye’s, the sorrow and anguish became almost to much to bear.  I felt a sadness I have only experienced a few times in my life.  I also felt the overwhelming sense of dread as I questioned myself, “What would I have to say at the passing of one of my soldiers?”  I heard the names being called, the twenty-one gun salute, “Taps” being softly played in stone silence and then the bagpipes as we each in turn paid our last respects with one final salute.  To make it all the more poignant, my convoy had received an IED blast on our return to our base the evening SGT Ford was killed.  There but for the grace of God…  Well, you know the rest.  Pray for SGT Ford and his family.  He gave his life to defend this country, right or wrong, and never wavered when the call came.  He placed his life on the alter of sacrifice as many others have done before him.  He is a true American hero.  Rest in Peace and know that others will take your place defending freedom and will never surrender to the forces of terrrorism and tyranny.  Actually, pray for all of us, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and worldwide as well.  Each deserves no less than the support of all American citizens and their prayers as well.  “Goodbye Joe”, as many have said, in memoriam of SGT Joeseph A. Ford