I live 12 blocks from a national cemetery. Every day the entrance to my neighborhood is blocked several times for funeral processions to pass. Sometimes I’m late for something and must wait. However, these are the families of men and women who fought for our country or their spouses who sacrificed so they could fight for our country. It puts it in perspective really fast.
No matter who the deceased is, going to any cemetery, what skin is it off my nose to politely wait as the mourners go to the graveside. Have we become so hardened that we can’t even put ourselves in another’s shoes for a couple of minutes?
Having been in unfamiliar cities for funerals, I’m grateful for the procession to take me to the graveside.
I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been in a procession to Fort Sam National Cemetary. My parents, my in-laws, my neighbors and many friends are buried there.
And one thing you probably know about these National Cemetaries: YOU WILL NOT BE LATE.
EVER.
The funeral homes work very closely with Fort Sam to insure they will be at the commital site at the exact time and then leave 30 minutes later. No messing around.
Fort Sam can handle 20-30 burials (or more) each day. But you better watch the clock.
And because of this.... Processions are almost a necessity. Funeral service at 10:00 - gravesite services at 11:30 - meet back at the home or church for lunch at 12:30.