Saying farewell to someone we love is always a heart-wrenching experience.
In the days following their departure, families come together to mourn and celebrate the life of the departed.
While in the past, male relatives would physically carry their loved one to their final resting place, today, we often see car processions making their way through the streets in a solemn tribute.
Despite the change in tradition, the sentiment remains deeply rooted in respect and honor.
However, navigating a funeral procession can be fraught with challenges.
According to funeral directors, many drivers are unsure how to act when they encounter a procession, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
Despite this, a heartwarming incident involving a compassionate soldier demonstrated the profound respect and kindness that still exists in the world.
On a rainy day in Kentucky, Erin Hester was taken aback when she noticed a soldier standing at attention beside his car in the downpour.
Initially puzzled by his actions, her confusion quickly turned to emotion when she realized the reason behind his solemn stance.
As Erin looked ahead, she saw a funeral procession passing by.
The soldier, braving the rain without concern for his own comfort, was paying his respects to a stranger.
This act of reverence was not lost on Erin, who was deeply moved by the soldier’s gesture.
Erin recounted to CNN, “We had come to a red light when the intersection was blocked by our local police department. The procession lasted at least a minute, and he stood the entire time at attention.”
This moment highlighted a personal grievance for Erin, who had always been frustrated by the lack of respect shown to funeral processions by other drivers.
Compelled by the soldier’s actions, Erin captured the moment on her cellphone and shared the image on Facebook, expressing her admiration and gratitude.
She wrote, “I was so completely touched by this today. I always get frustrated when I see cars that don’t pull to the side and stop for a procession, but this gentleman went above and beyond.”
The photo quickly spread across the internet, touching the hearts of many.
The soldier was identified as Col. Jack L. Usrey, the senior Army advisor to the adjutant general at the Tennessee National Guard Headquarters.
Reflecting on his actions, Col. Usrey shared, “I didn’t really think; I just did what my parents taught me to do growing up. I stopped, got out, saluted the police escort, and held my salute as the hearse and family drove by.”
Col. Usrey’s humble response to the viral attention his gesture received speaks volumes about his character.
“It’s baffling to me that something so simple caused so much attention,” he remarked.
He believes that if people simply treated each other with the kindness and respect encapsulated in the Golden Rule, our nation could be more united.
This story, shared more than 130,000 times, not only celebrates Col. Usrey’s act of kindness but also serves as a reminder of the impact a simple gesture of respect can have on others.
It’s a testament to the power of empathy and the deep connections that can form between strangers in moments of sorrow and remembrance.
See this incredible story in the video below!
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