It's been a sad week for our community as we prepared for the homecoming of Sgt. Thomas MacPherson, killed in action in Afghanistan on Oct. 12.
Thursday he was flown into the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos on his "Hero Mission", and then transported to the neighboring cemetary.
We lined the route, standing silently and holding our flags high;
some cried, some bowed a knee
He was escorted by dozens of motorcycle officers
and followed by cars of family and friends
close to a hundred sheriff cars with 2 and 3 men per car
scores of bikers (Patriot Guard Riders)
fire engines and the Red Cross
He was serving his 4th tour in Afghanistan,
and had completed one tour in Iraq.
His entire platoon, Delta Company of the 75th Ranger Regiment,
came to California for the funeral held the following morning.
His pastor conducted the service and his family spoke
emotionally remembering his extraordinary life and accomplishments.
emotionally remembering his extraordinary life and accomplishments.
Speakers also included his Lt. Colonel and Sheriff Lee Baca.
His awards include the Bronze Star Medal of Valor, the Army Commendation Medal
and the National Defense Service Medical.
He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal,
Meritorious Service Medal and the Purple heart.
He is a warrior who gave everything ~ he was 26 years old.
Counting My Blessings,
xo Susy
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
A moving post, Suzy. I always get so sad when I see news of a fallen solider. They give so much for our country. God bless his family.
ReplyDeleteSmiles,
Carol
Praying comfort for his family and community. You honored him well. He sounds like an extraordinary man.
ReplyDeleteI've known Tommy most of his life. His mom and I have been dear friends for over 20 years. It's been a rough weekend. Thank you for honoring him.
ReplyDeleteSad beyond words. I admire a community that gives such honor to a fallen soldier, Suzy. Bless you all.
ReplyDeleteI am reading this with tears, Susy. I hear about these things on tv, but reading your post made it seem more real for some reason. I will pray for comfort for his family. It was so sweet of you to honor him with this post. Did you know him? What a wonderful tribute for the city to come out like that for this young man...only 26. Thanks for the reminder to pray for all those brave men and women who continue to do battle for us and for their families.
ReplyDeleteSad so sad Suzy. He gave all.
ReplyDeleteSuch a heartbreak...prayers for all our service men and women, God, bring them safely home.
ReplyDeleteWhat a moving post Suzy - cut down in his prime so that others can be safe!
ReplyDeleteMy nephew served in Iraq & I know how difficult that was.
We are preparing for Poppy day here - 11-11-11 when we will all pause to remember the sacrifice of those who laid down their lives so we can be free. Thank you for this post & for being there in honour!
Dee at the Carlton
Saying a prayer for the family and friends<3
ReplyDeletez