Always give me a thrill/chill when veterans asked to raise our hands.
Let me tell a story, please. In August 2006 I went to a funeral service for the second son of a Lubbock Hispanic family — one lost in Iraq, one in Afghanistan. I drove two hours each way because those crazy Phelps nuts from Kansas were going to demonstrate. I went inside the church and took a seat. Part way through the service, the veterans were asked first to raise their hands and then stand up. After the applause, we were asked to come to the front of the church and stand behind the casket. I was still in my blue-collar work clothes but everyone not with the family was casual too. Anyway, a sergeant called us all to attention and then hand salute as a recording played taps. I was standing behind the casket while on the other side one of the women was sobbing quietly. As the tears flowed down my face, we honored the solider. Later, as I exited the church, we were honored with a line of American flags on each side. A large group of Patriot Guard motorcycle members stood between the us and the other demonstrators. It was one of the most moving experiences of my life.
Thank you, CedarDave.