While visiting my son and his family in southern Texas, I took a photo of the young soldier who was living on a military base with his wife and children. The base played taps each evening over a loud speaker system as the American flag was lowered. Everyone who heard that tribute paused when outside whether walking or talking, faced the direction of the ceremony.
My son was on his closed- in patio where no public person could see him. He was hurriedly trying to finish a building project before he would be called in for dinner with his family. I happened to glace out the patio door as taps began to play.
Standing amid the clutter of lumber, sawdust hammer and nails,, he had paused and placed his hand over his heart in respect for the flag ceremony and the nation it represented.
I am proud to know this young man and am humbled by the service he and many others offer for our freedom.