Homecoming

HOMECOMING


The seven statues stood, barely visible in the charcoal light, as the C-130 taxied up and came to a stop. The jet wash picked up bits of debris which flashed, diamond like, in the landing lights.

Homecoming fireflies, crossed through Major Westcott's mind although his countenance remained fixed. Only an occasional blink indicated he was aware of his surroundings.

The cooling metal of the C-130 engines pierced the sudden silence as the engines quit and the crew completed its shut-down checklist.

It was early morning and yet a pale brightness found its way through the overcast sky illuminating the quiet scene.

With a sound of protest, the large cargo bay ramp began to lower, revealing a line of flag-draped coffins.

"Guard – attention!" he said sotto voce, followed by "Forward, march!"

The honor guard moved forward in a practiced cadence toward where the first coffin was waiting. A young airman handed him paperwork. Sergeant Tom Caulfield, he noted. Taking their places on either side, six white-gloved hands grasped the handles.

At his command, lifting in unison, they moved their comrade to the waiting vehicle for his final journey ... home. With practiced hands, they slid the box into the cavernous opening.

As the doors closed, a final command - "Present arms!"

Looking over the line of men – his men – Major Westcott felt the telltale tickle of a tear sliding down his cheek as the hearse pulled away. God speed, Tom.

"The key to this assignment is to remain detached." The Colonel's words came back to him from his first day's orientation.

"How do you do that, Colonel?" he asked into the fading darkness. Only silence answered his question.

He waited until the taillights faded in the distance. Then, with a soldier's devotion, he brought the small band back to attention and returned to the tarmac. There were more brothers to welcome home.


Notes:
An entry for "HONORING OUR VETERANS "  [ASR]

Sotto voce (literally "under voice") means intentionally lowering one's voice for emphasis.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, as long as you're here, leave a comment. Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even words of encouragement or praise – are all equally welcome

Ken