The number of bikes worked out well, as we had two to lead and two to follow Mr. Kelly to the Church, then two to lead and three to follow him to his place of rest. When we arrived at the cemetery, there were two busloads of servicemen and women from the Navy, Marines, Air Force and Army standing at attention along with a color guard. Full military honors were bestowed with a gun volley, taps, and three flags were presented – one each to his widow and both sons.
For the first time that we know of, we were given flowers to place on the casket as the rest of the mourners. We were also invited to break bread with all after, which we politely declined; this was time for family and friends, not strangers.
The young lady from the USO also thanked us for doing what we did and said Mr. and Mrs. Kelly did everything together. It was heart-wrenching to hear her sobs as we stood there. All from the USO are heartbroken and it has been and will be difficult for all of them for some time to come; “he touched everything in that building” and that is where he passed.
I’m not sure the Funeral Director knew what to make of us, but we worked well with the staff who ensured that our three cages were right behind the family so we had time to set the other flag lines. The Director smiled when I thanked him before leaving the cemetery and asked for a contact card.
Thank you guys so very much for your time, suggestions, answers, and help! I learned a lot and I believe, in our own small way, that we helped bring some comfort today.
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