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While not part of official military honors, we had decided that Steven would render the final salute. In addition to personal desires, this action would also be symbolic of West Point's "Long Gray Line" with a Plebe from the Class of 2009 saluting the casket of a Major General from the Class of June 1943.
Steven is in The Academy's dress uniform. Six weeks before Ernie's death Steven had attended a conference in Springfield VA. After the Thursday sessions were complete, he went to visit his grandfather wearing this uniform. Having been adopted in 1889, it is the same one Ernie wore during his days at West Point. After the visit Steven reported that Ernie became very emotional upon seeing him for the first time in this uniform. The following Sunday Ernie was still quite emotional when talking about the visit, telling Ed that it was like seeing himself reborn as a cadet.
However, true to the "best laid plans" dictum, there was a minor glitch. We had been unaware of the "vigil" soldier who remains at the grave to watch over the body until it is interred. An airman from the Honor Guard took his post at the foot of the casket to perform this function. After a confused delay due to this unexpected event, Steven marched up and said "Airman, may I take your post" After a short hesitation the airman stepped back, Steven took the position and rendered this salute. His emotions were visible to those of us watching
The individuals in the background are Fran, Ed, two individuals who do not wish to be identified and have been obscured by pixelation, and the Arlington Cemetery Representative. |
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