On Friday, my brother, who was too young to leave this world, will be laid to rest among the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery. It has been difficult, waiting to get this closure, yet, not really wanting it, because that only means he is really gone.
The six horses which pull the caisson through the quiet lanes of Arlington National Cemetery are matched. They are paired into three teams – the lead team is in front, the swing team follows, and nearest the caisson is the wheel team. Although all six animals are saddled, only those on the left have mounted riders. This is a tradition that began in the early horse-drawn artillery days when one horse of each team was mounted while the other carried provisions and feed - taken from The Old Guard Caisson Platoon.
"Being able to provide closure to family members as their loved one is laid to rest here at Arlington -- to be able to be a part of that, and to be able to offer the last measure of respect that the U.S. Army and our sister services can give to her departed heroes."
They carry him to his final resting place. I am moved, just by looking at these pictures taken by me from another time - the scene before me, stirring that place in my heart. There are no words for the sight and sound, the rhythm of horses hooves, the lump in my throat, and the weight on my chest, but I know that I will watch the leaves glisten in the morning sun, as I watch the fallen join the fallen. Because it is too hard to do anything at this moment, except to wait for the breeze to blow it all away.
I knew this day was coming, but the circumstances put it off for seven more months because of COVID. And now, suddenly, I am just not ready for it. I know, who is ever ready for it?
Sorry for your loss.
Thank you so much for your words. They are very much appreciated. ❤️
Oh my goodness I am so sorry! I had no idea. Somehow you show us stunning beauty even when you are grieving. Horses, always lovely, this time are something much much more. xo
You have just brightened my day with your words. Thank you for showing up and me your beautiful heart. ❤️
So so sorry for your loss, Denise 🧡
No words... I'm tearing up
It's been two years since my sis left, one never gets over it
Just surround yourself with sweet fond memories
🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿🌼🌿
Thank you so much, AC... I know you know and it is something I don't think one gets over easy. So many memories. xo
Thank you for the love. ❤️
❤❤❤
I could feel the emotions all over it. The words were beautiful but yet it gave me sadness that pierced my heart. I know it's so hard to see someone we love unexpectedly. Moreover, it's hard when we think it's not their time yet. We all go there but considering the early time, it's hard. I know you will be fine Denise, you are a strong woman and a loving one. Your brother might be lost in your heart but his presence as a brother to you will remain in your heart forever.
My condolences into your family.
Thank you so much for your words. I know you are right and I appreciate your thoughts and words. You are such a kind human being. Thank you.
May his soul rest well
Thank you so much. I appreciate your words.
I don't think one is ever ready, Denise. It's also why these rituals are so important. I said this to someone else a few days ago: this time is so strange. Covid has robbed us of, and changed, so much. Including how we grieve and mourn.
Thinking of you and, indeed, may your brother rest in peace.
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Thank you so much for your thoughts and words of wisdom. It is true. I wouldn't be ready any day of the week. So much is so different and life is just not the same.
Thank you so much for your love. ❤️
I'm so sorry to hear of the news. Big hugs. It's so hard to lose someone you love
Thank you so much for your kindness.
Very difficult week for you with all the memories and emotions, joyful and painful feeling all mingled inside. But you have your angels looking after you, so listen to their gentle comforting vibes. He’s only gone on physical form, he’s still up there in another invisible dimension with others and guardians. You could talk to him and perhaps he’ll get the permission to let you know he’s looking over you with lots of love. Be well and peace be with you.
Sorry for your loss Denise.
Its true, but pathetic to leave and say good bye for rest in peace who is near and dear closest to you. Eyes are full of water drops, throat are vibrant to express word but we can remember him with our memories. Its our destination but not expect too early, whatever a honoured and respect for your younger brother and will remember his work in short entire life, god bless us. 😥😢
So sorry for your loss. Sending hugs your way.
Denise please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, your family & loved ones. Sorry you have to go through the painful ritual on Friday though being laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery truly is an honor.
I know how closely knit your family is and hope you find comfort and peace in the days ahead. Losing a brother was one of the most difficult things I've been through in my life. How ironic your brother will be laid to rest on the same day my brother was -- October 2nd.
Lean on me, my friend!🙏✝️🕊
((Hugs))
Dear Denise saying goodbye in these Covid times must be even harder than it already is losing your brother. My condolences to you and your loved ones. Strenght is needed and I wish I could ship a box to you from here. But like you wrote : it is too hard to do anything at this moment, except to wait for the breeze to blow it all away. The blog is in his honour and I thank him for all he did for your country, and this momentum was deserved and looked like a beautiful deserving tribute. Friend take your time and stay safe, if you need us we are only a blog or a comment away
Big hug
B
Sorry to hear of your loss, the burial is such a symbolic end. 7 months of limbo must have been quite strange.
I am so sorry for your loss @dswigle. It's never easy to say goodbye. Remember the love you had for one another always. Take care sweet lady.💜
My condolences! I'm so sorry for your loss, I'm so sorry for your brother.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are definitely in our thoughts and prayers. 💜
My deepest condolences, may his soul rest in peace. Be strong my friend! ❤️
My condolences for your loss.
Oh my love I am so very very sorry!!!!!! Nobody is ever ready for this, no matter how much we may think we are. Please be sure to take the time to grieve, to allow yourself the necessary moments to process but also to focus on all the cherised times together and memories that will forever live in your heart.
Love you so much sweetie! If you need anything... even an ear, please no not hesitate to shout. I am here.
Take care beautiful and know that each day will bring you a little more strength.
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💗💗💗💗💗
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My deepest condolences ❤️ No one is ever ready to lose a loved one and sometimes I pray that they could be with us forever.
Very sad news. Sorry for your loss. Stay strong
Sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and family 💞
Sorry for your loss. Talking about people we have lost whether they're good, bad or funny memories on a daily basis keeps them with us and keeps their memory alive.
My deepest condolences to you and family
I can only imagine how hard it must have been to have the mourning period dragged out for so long. It must be like starting all over again, in some ways. Much love and strength to you as you wait for Friday and that long awaited full farewell. 💓💕
Be blessed my friend so sorry for your loss xx xx
I'm sorry for your loss :( my condolences.. stay strong <3
I am so so sorry for your loss, I don't have any words for you because I know what you are going through. R.I.P :( :( sorry...
Our prayers are with you my dear friend!
Sad news indeed and you must be going through one of those terrible times again.
Heart rending when I have thoughts of my own family falling one after the other before my eyes.
Be strong girl and our prayers and spirits are with you!
[Heels perfectly aligned, knees locked, back straight, chin up, eyes forward, right elbow at 45 degrees.] Salute.
That's all I've got right now. Thanks to your brother and to you.
Denise,
I am so sorry about your brother’s passing and to hear that your last respects and celebration of his life were delayed by covid. This year is unrelenting. Not being able to gather with the people who mean the most to you at such a time... only adds to the heartbreak.
I know you have always had a special love for Arlington. It is a beautiful and sacred place. I hope there is a small bit of comfort knowing he is laid to rest among our country’s bravest individuals.
Sending you and your family peace, strength and love.
So sorry for your loss. Do take heart
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts are with you and your family.
Oh Denise, I am so sorry for this day and all of the emotional turmoil it has brought upon you and your family. I will be thinking of you and yours and praying for all of you, as you had done for me. I hope that wind through Arlington blows strong. I hope it blows the pain far from your heart, but brings back the warmth and comfort of his presence, that I know has a large space there.
I thank your brother for his service to our fine country and thank all of those who have fallen; For it is them, at the front lines and ready, to protect our freedoms and rights. Thank you. May you rest in piece 😢
I am very sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you and your family.
God bless you <3
R.I.P
I am so sorry for your loss, @dswigle. Covid has made the grieving process so much more difficult. One is never ready for the finality of putting a loved one to rest. My heart is with you as you lay your brother to rest on Friday. Prayers and hugs to get you through this difficult time.
So sorry for your loss mine and lulus thoughts and with you and your family at this time
Hugs
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I'm sad.... and happy.
When I saw condolences on the loss of your brother in discord, I thought they meant you lost another one ! My heart was breaking because I knew it had not been so long ago since you lost this one and I wasn't how sure you would endure it.
I was gladdened a little to come here and find it is not another brother, but the same one. I know it is dear to your heart that he will be laid to rest in Arlington, such a beautiful place. I know drawing it out like this has kept it fresh on your mind and heart though and I am sorry for that.
As always, amazing photos and what a great tribute.
{{{ hugs }}}
Two years ago I had to face same reality losing a brother, it's tough I thought things could never get worse after Mom and Dad in 1993/94, thoughts are with you!
What my niece put up yesterday for her father rings so true.
"I cannot see You
But I can Remember You
Your Smile - Your Laugh
Your advice - Your Kindness
There are just so many reasons
Why I will love you until
We meet again"
My condolences to you and your family during this sad time. May you find peace and comfort.
I am so sorry for your loss, dear Denise. Nobody is prepared when the time comes.
My deepest condolences.
I'm so sorry for your loss Denise! I imagine just visiting Arlington National Cemetery is an emotional experience but even more so when there to say goodbye to a family member. Instead of goodbye though, I prefer to think of it more as I'll see you later. My heart goes out to you and you are in my thoughts and prayers! 💞
My deepest condolences, may his soul rest in peace. Nobody is prepared when the time comes.