This is written from a Chaplain in Iraq :
I recently attended a showing of 'Superman 3' here at LSA Anaconda. We
have a large auditorium we use for movies, as well as memorial services and
other large gatherings. As is the custom at all military bases, we stood to
attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was
going well until three-quarters of the way through The National Anthem, the
music stopped.
Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds
back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a
few rude comments, and everyone would sit down and yell for the movie to
begin. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the
first place.
Here in Iraq , 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes
fixed forward. The music started again and the Soldiers continued to quietly
stand at attention. But again, at the same point, the music stopped. What
would you expect 1000 Soldiers standing at attention to do ?? Frankly, I
expected some laughter, and everyone would eventually sit down and wait for
the movie to start.
But No!!... You could have heard a pin drop, while every Soldier
continued to stand at attention. Suddenly, there was a lone voice from the
front of the auditorium, then a dozen voices, and soon the room was filled
with the voices of a thousand soldiers, finishing where the recording left
off: "And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof
through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that Star
Spangled Banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free, and the home of the
brave."
It was the most inspiring moment I have had in Iraq , and I wanted you
to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you. Remember them as they fight
for us!
Pass this along as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all
our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad. Many have already paid the
ultimate price.
Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins LSA Anaconda is at the Ballad Airport in
Iraq , north of Baghdad
Please share only if you are so inclined.
