TAPS

Hubs and I went to Washington DC this past weekend for the burial of my uncle.  "Uncle Miko" passed after a seven year battle with Alzheimer's.  His life up until the illness was vibrant, just like his personality.  His professional life was mostly dedicated to the Navy, but eventually Uncle Miko closed that chapter of his life and worked as a civilian (but not before traveling all around the world.)

The burial was at Arlington National Cemetery.  There are rows and rows and rows of headstones...... kind of like a cornfield; its goes on forever.  Strangely, the park is absolutely gorgeous in a serene way.  You cant help but feel overwhelmed emotionally when you pull in-- every single person buried there has served in the United States military.

After a short chapel service, before which Naval officers walked in his American flag dressed coffin, the ceremony concluded with an outside procession.  Uncle Miko received full military honors which included a caisson platoon (I think that is what its called) pulling the coffin while a group of soldiers marched in front.  At the grave site there was a Naval band as well as officers for the 21 gun salute.  Taps played and everyone sobbed. 

The whole occasion was absolutely beautiful and bittersweet.  I'm so lucky to have known Uncle Miko and will miss him dearly.  I am NOT sad that his long battle with Alzheimer's is over; it was a tortuous road for him and all who loved him.