Grandpa's funeral was held on a sunny afternoon at Arlington National Cemetery. He'd led a full life and died at the age of 90, declining in health relatively recently. He'd been a widower for almost 20 years. Even though it's sad to say goodbye, the funeral wasn't all that sad. It was a beautiful way to honor Grandpa, who graduated from Westpoint in 1946 and had a 20-year Army career, which included serving in the Korean War.
It was wonderful to be with everyone who gathered for the funeral. All of Grandpa's children and grandchildren were there except one grandchild. A few extended family members attended, whom I'd never met before. I also met a couple of family friends who came to support my Dad - one of my Dad's college roommates and one of his good friends who served with him in the Army.
We began in a holding room at the cemetery, then drove to a transfer point where we met the Honor Guard and other attendants. The Honor Guard placed the casket on a caisson pulled by a team of 4 horses and the family members walked behind the procession while others in attendance drove the cars to the grave site, where the service was held.
The entire experience was impressive. From the Army band to the 21-gun salute to the perfectly perfect Honor Guard (one of whom donned a Purple Heart), it was just amazing. I am so glad Cat and I were able to be a part of it, to celebrate Grandpa's life and accomplishments and to be with our family, supporting my Dad and Aunt Cathy.
I'm so glad to see this part. I thought about y'all all that day and hoped things went smoothly. Sounds like a very good experience. So glad you could all be there.
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