Somber reminder of service

Last week I flew home to Spokane. Before leaving the airplane the flight attendant asked that everyone stay seated while a military soldier left the plane. He was bringing home a fallen comrade.

Everyone stayed in their seats, quietly waiting while the soldier disembarked. There was silence while everyone left the plane and later stood in the airport, watching servicemen respectfully remove the coffin from the plane to a waiting hearse.

It once again reminded me of the incredible men and women in our armed services. I was proud to be a part of the Spokane community as I watched not only the process of carrying the soldier to the hearse, but the quiet reverence given by the fellow passengers. With hands on hearts while the flag-draped coffin proceeded to the hearse, to tears in eyes, the community showed their respect to the military hero who had sacrificed life for others.

As the passengers left the gate to collect bags, there was silence in the airport. It was an experience that I won’t soon forget. God bless our military personnel, and God bless America.

Judy Leise

Spokane