Honoring One of “The Greatest Generation”

(No Ratings Yet)

 Loading ...

I had never had occasion to go to the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne prior to this week, when I was notified that the father of a very dear friend had passed on. It was age and illness that claimed this wonderful man, whom to me was simply my friend’s Dad.

I was completely unaware that he was one of The Greatest Generation’s best.

Cape Cod’s National Cemetery deserves great praise. We were a small group, a mere baker’s dozen; his wife of 59 years, his daughters, family members, and friends, and all were treated with great dignity and pride to honor this veteran.

Alex served with the U.S. Army as a sharpshooter during WWII, serving in the European Theater, Italy, France and North Africa. He was also a trained musician and as his daughter stated, “Sang the troops home on the hospital ship. All the way home.” Twice he went and twice he returned; probably singing his way home each time.

I was proud to be a part of this day.

Alex, this one’s for you.

_____________________

It was not my intention to photograph any part of this private family event until I saw the Honor Guard and asked my friend if she wanted photographs. She did. It was very difficult for me to do; every click of the shutter was too loud to me. At the end, Alex’s widow told me that he had been a photographer, and it was right and special that I was there to capture it.

Related posts: