This morning was a reminder of why “ready” has to be a posture, not a plan.
A veteran was laid to rest without the paperwork in place for an honor guard … and without a flag waiting at the graveside. No one’s fault in the moment … but a hard reality.
What I won’t forget is what happened next.
The funeral director went out of her way to find a flag and make the calls. She tracked me down and asked if I could come play Taps … so this family wouldn’t have to say goodbye without that final act of honor.
I stood on that hillside and played … and while I was still there, another family approached me and asked, “Would you be willing to do my father’s funeral too?”
Yes. Always yes … if I’m able.
Because here’s the truth: our veterans don’t stop deserving dignity because the logistics fell through. They don’t deserve less honor because the forms weren’t filed in time, or a box didn’t get checked, or a family didn’t know what to ask for.
They deserve presence … and they deserve to be honored no matter the circumstances.
That’s why I’m committed to being ready … and why I’m working to build a stronger network so more communities can be ready too. If you’re a bugler, a band director, a JROTC leader, a funeral director, or someone who simply cares about getting this right … I’d love to connect.
Every veteran deserves a flag … and a live Taps … every time.