The Last Roll Call ...

     On Friday, I was priveleged to attend a memorial for one of our Soldier's. One of the doctor's, a Colonel in our clinic, ended his 3 year bout with cancer last week following chemotherapy and finally stem cell therapy. He died leaving his wife and 2 sons, 15 and 11. As you all know, this hits quite close to home for us. 

     The memorial service was set-up like most, with the standard 23rd Psalm, the Lord's Prayer, the singing of Amazing Grace, a short Christian sermon, and some touching words of remembrance by our Commander and some of his close friends within the DENTAC.

     There were, however, some striking differences. To start, the memorial began with the National Anthem. This Doctor was first and foremost, a soldier, and a soldier's committment is to the Nation. Quite fitting. Second, positioned at the front of the chapel, the trademark of the passing soldier: the standing M16 Rifle with Kevlar mounted on top, his boots positioned squarely in front, and a picture of the soldier. And finally, the Last Roll Call ...

     This, if you have never experienced it, as I hadn't, is a chilling experience to say the least. This honor is only afforded to those that pass while on active duty. 

     As we entered the final portion of the memorial, the Benediction was offered and while our heads were bowed, our First Sergeant (the senior enlisted member of our company) positioned himself in front of the congregation. When the prayer had been completed, he called out ... (I'll omit the names)

1SG: LTC A!

LTC A: Here First Sergeant!!

1SG: LTC B!

LTC B: Here Fist Sergeant!!

1SG: SGT C!

SGT C: Here First Sergeant!!

1SG: SGT D!

SGT D: Here First Sergeant!!

1SG: COL E!

COL E: 

1SG: COL E!!

COL E:

1SG: COL First Name, Middle Initial, E ! ! !

Taps (begins as the last name is being spoken, softly, as from a distance) ...

(It's even hard to type)

     As we filed out of the chapel, all military, 1 at a time from the pews, marched to the front and offered a final salute. All others, 1 at a time from the pews, were allowed their moment to offer their respects. A befitting end.

I encourage all of you to offer a small prayer for this doctor's family.

Aloha.