Yesterday evening I attended a memorial service for a friend. He was a decorated Vietnam veteran and a fighter with a huge heart. It was a poignant event, as friends and family recounted stories from his life; some funny, some not so much. I was full of admiration and gratitude to the attending volunteers who give generously of their time to pay their respects. Although personally unknown to them, David was recognized as a member of the brotherhood that protects and serves our country. Thank you to the Army National Guard who conducted the flag folding ceremony, to the SC American Legion who provided the rifle volley and performed Taps, and to the SC Patriot Guard Riders who surrounded the ceremony with American flags as a watchful guard. Rest in peace, David Arias. You were remembered well.
