James Pierce's Funeral

Got the pic in an email, confirmed the story.
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What follows is a message from Vicki Pierce about her nephew James' funeral (he was serving our country in Iraq):

"I'm back, it was certainly a quick trip, but I have to also say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. There is a lot to be said for growing up in a small town in Texas. The service itself was impressive with wonderful flowers and sprays, a portrait of James, his uniform and boots, his awards and ribbons. There was lots of military brass and an eloquent (though inappropriately longwinded) Baptist preacher. There were easily 1000 people at the service, filling the church sanctuary as well as the fellowship hall and spilling out into the parking lot.




However, the most incredible thing was what happened following the service on the way to the cemetery. We went to our cars and drove to the cemetery escorted by at least 10 police cars with lights flashing and some other emergency vehicles, with Texas Rangers handling traffic. Everyone on the road who was not in the procession, pulled over, got out of their cars, and stood silently and respectfully, some put their hands over their hearts.

When we turned off the highway suddenly there were teenage boys along both sides of the street about every 20 feet or so, all holding large American flags on long flag poles, and again with their hands on their hearts. We thought at first it was the Boy Scouts or 4H club or something, but it continued .... for two and a half miles. Hundreds of young people, standing silently on the side of the road with flags. At one point we passed an elementary school, and all the children were outside, shoulder to shoulder holding flags . kindergartners, handicapped, teachers, staff, everyone. Some held signs of love and support. Then came teenage girls and younger boys, all holding flags. Then adults. Then families. All standing silently on the side of the road. No one spoke, not even the very young children.

The military presence..at least two generals, a fist full of colonels, and representatives from every branch of the service, plus the color guard which attended James, and some who served with him ... was very impressive and respectful, but the love and pride from this community who had lost one of their own was the most amazing thing I've ever been privileged to witness.
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First video I've ever made.

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• Taps
• Military

[cruisintexas]

that was in center point tx.. i was their holding a flag at the entrance.. and his name was james kiel not pierce he was from a neighboring town called comfort

[Momaw46]

Actually it is in Texas and yes we still do this and always have. You can even see the Texas Flag flying in one photo along with the Texas State Inspection signs. Whomever chose to change the name to Tennessee I guess did not notice this. Hopefully Tennessee does do this also, it shows so much respect for the lost love ones.

[Kheldarren]

If you're a veteran, then there is no explanation needed. If you are not, then no explanation could be understood.

[Texaschilipepper]

Rest now my weary brother...your mission is over, you are triumphant and your brothers will keep the fight. You, above all, know that no soldier dies in vain...they die for their country, for honor, for freedom. I'm sure we will all share stories when we meet you in our own time. For now...I've got your six.

[VictorRatza]

Sorry my e-mail said this was in Tennessee (In Tennessee we really do pull off the road and stop for funerals......nobody moves until the last car has gone by.) not Texas, so I am thinking this is not a funeral but a parade I see no hurse or casket, but only a real clever waste of my emotions.

[nate482]

The ups is real american stop on his job to honnor the fallen solider.

[gayrosesarered]

Its so very sad that people in general have to die from STUPIDITY and of course these innocent souls to protect the country from greed. WAR is an EVIL infestation of greed!!!

[Camaro69YenkoSS]

im crying... :....)

[malovale]

What an awesome example the Texans have set for their own coming home in this tragic way. America was founded by people who wanted freedom from oppresion. James and others fight for our rights. Thank you!

[porthousevike07]

God Bless! Really does make me proud to be a TEXAN.

And with all due respect to everyone's opinions, don't start an argument over the war in here...