Step by step the honor guard moved in perfect precision from the Capitol to the sidewalk below. Strong hands held tightly to the casket of Senator John McCain as he made his final journey from the iconic building where he served for many years.
Even as the elite group moved downward, the flag draped casket remained sturdy. Arms adjusted to keep it level on their long walk. Heads never turned. Eyes stared straight ahead. Only after intensive training could they perform so flawlessly.
Only a few feet from the top, wind caught the plastic cover on the flag. It billowed and a section landed on the head of a military pallbearer. Without flinching, he continued his duties stoically while plastic encased his head and shoulders. His eyes focused forward and his feet continued the downward trek. Even though his comrades must have noticed his unusual headgear, no one appeared to see it.
My eyes stayed on the young man who displayed remarkable endurance and discipline. He refused to acknowledge the problem or his own discomfort.
Only after the casket went into the hearse, did he try to pull the plastic off. With one swipe, it moved but went back over his face. With the honor guard still at attention, a comrade stepped up and gently removed the piece of plastic. However, the hat came off too. Before it fell to the ground, his helpful companion carefully replaced it. Even during that maneuver, none of the military pallbearers moved his eyes, head or hands.
The precision teamwork and focus on duty of the honor guard was a tribute not only to Senator McCain but also to all Americans. With all of the challenges our country continues to face, how thankful we can be to the men and women who selflessly love and serve our country.
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