Thursday, July 10, 2008

Military Funeral


Military Funeral, originally uploaded by BillyCrafton.

I received a call Tuesday evening from a family friend asking me if I could photograph a military funeral. The family had learned that John, as a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, was eligible for a military color guard and 21 gun salute and they wanted to capture the moments as there were family individuals that could not make it.

I remember when my father passed, a retired Chief as well, and we had the military funeral. It was a powerful memory that I wish I had captured as well.

I posted this image just as a reminder for the men and women serving over seas and for the retired military that served when needed.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Billy, you did a great job to also capture the true spirit of the military family. We felt just as much a part of the Navy as our father had served. You did a great job and many of our family that didn't make it were glad to be able to view and order the pictures and they were able to share in this sad and honourable experience. Thank you again.

Anonymous said...

Mr. Crafton,
Your photographic ability is wonderful and these photos prove that. As the senior member of this Military Funeral Detail, I wanted to thank you for capturing this sad, but proud moment for this family.
As I viewed the pictures, I recall the look in Mrs. Ruiz's face as I presented her with her husbands flag. One word says it all; heart-wrenching. It is with great pride that I serve this country and honor our shipmates who have passed on before us. Once again, Mrs. Ruiz, my sincere condolances for your loss.

MMC(SS) Jeffrey Hall