It's Over.

The families are waiting to get out of the door. A little girl  in a black dress is wearing a firefighter's hat on her head and laughing while sitting in the arms of a firefighter.

The ceremony is nearly over. Many mourners have left but the firefighters are still here. Standing at their seats. Some on the floor, some nearly touching the rafters.

Sniffling is still audible now that the music has quieted. It's been an emotional day. Sadness interupted by welcomed laughter at Chief Thomas' stories.

I hope to have a wrap up post in a little while. Thank you for reading.

Comments

[Jim]

Andy,

I am a long way away; yet your comments and description of the ceremony really touched me. Thank you for performing such a service.

And let me extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to the families of the fallen and the citizens of Charleston.

Jim, Ashland OR

[Jenn]

Your comments were very touching. Though I did not get to attend the ceremony my thoughts and prayers are with each and every family member there today.
They are and always be true heros.