I just spent one of the most gut wrenching two hours of my entire life. Grant Fraser's memorial service was held this afternoon out at Kincaid Park. I was pretty much a basket case within minutes after my arrival. As I walked towards the Chalet, I saw little American flags everywhere. The tears started flowing at that point.
The service was held outside at the base of the sledding hill - which in the summer is a wonderful grassy field. There were about two hundred chairs set up and in front of the chairs was a stage with the US, Alaska, Marine Corps flags - and the casket stand. I was so thankful the service was outside - I was able to sit on a picnic bench up and away from the seats. I'm such a sobber that it was nice to have a little space from everyone else. Although, by the time the service was underway, all the seats were taken and the crowd was flowing back up the hill to my spot.
All I can say is that in a time of war, attending a funeral of a fallen Marine is an incredibly moving experience. And although I wouldn't wish it upon anyone, but, now, during this period of time, we should all attend one of these. Those who support the war, should experience first hand, the staggering cost of the war. Those who are against the war should experience first hand, the honor and courage of those who serve. And those bastards who are apathetic, well a service like this would grab them by the lapels and shake every last apathetic bit out of them.
Indelible memories that will stay with me forever:
- The green grass, the blue sky, white chairs, mourners in subdued colors, and marines in dress blues.
- The marine honor guard-pall bearers easing the coffin out of the hearse.
- Grant's sister Victoria and her friend Natasha singing a beautiful and spot-on star spangled banner.
- Grant's godmother bending over and kissing Grant's flag draped coffin. She delivered an absolutely stunning eulogy - a true call to attention. I would love to have a copy.
- The marine honor guard, stark in their dress blues, high up on the knoll above us, firing their 21 gun salute as taps was being played.
- The delivery of the flag to Sharon, Grant's mom. My God.
Grant's service brought home with a heart wrenching thud, the spirit, joi de vivre, bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who serve.
7:51:35 PM 
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