I was impressed with Staff Sergeant Lanier. However, I have a jaundiced view of the "Old Guard." One of my frieds and co-workers was in that unit and I have a lot of insight into them through him. They are viewed (unfairly) by combat units as "guys who can march well," which is true but doesn't do justice to them. There are a fair number of REMF types who have found their way into the Old Guard. There are also a good many "major players" who are given that billet as a thank you for lots and lots of very unpleseant (read that as dangerous) but necessary duty. It's a way to finish out their 20 when they've already seen the elephant.
My friend is in between. He didn't see combat and did "march well," but he understood 100% what the job was and who it was about. Not many, but still too many, of the "warriors in the gardens of stone" think its about them. Staff Sgt Lanier doesn't appear to be one of those and I'm pleased they featured him this weekend. I wish they'd do it without waiting for Memorial day, however.
Well, I think in most noble endeavors we will find participants and practitioners whose motives may be less than noble, and we will find people with justifiable ill feelings toward them for that reason. On the other hand, we will also always find outsiders looking in who are jealous or envious to an extent that eclipses their high regard for the endeavor.
My sense of SSgt. Lanier is that he is wholly dedicated to his assignment, worked hard for it, and appears to understand the assignment well beyond the ceremonial aspect. My heart swelled with pride as I listened and watched him. He strikes me as a great American.
I, too, wish TV delivered more such features, and not just by Fox news.
Thanks for the thread on the shows. :)