Have you watched the movie "Taking Chance?" a true story based off of a Marine Chance Phelps who was killed in Iraq in 2004. It is one of my all time favorite movies, one that my whole family was moved by, and in my opinion one of the best movies ever made. I encourage you to watch it, and even watch it with your family when the kids are old enough to discuss the difficult consequences of war and serving. It is absolutely kid friendly, no violence, no sex, but does contain two curse words (I never like to justify cursing in movies so feel to warn you, however the curse words are mild if that makes any sense.)
This movie is moving and will reach the core of the soul. It brings out the depth of human emotions but especially helps us recognize what a family experiences when their loved one is killed in action. (just be careful when you choose to watch it, my mom and I watched it the last time she visited, right before she had to leave for the airport. Uhm .... not a good idea unless you want to go to the airport with big puffy red eyes and a stopped up nose)
The reason I bring this up is because of a poignant scene in the movie. As Chances body is being returned to his hometown, when he arrives, the streets are lined with citizens and Boy Scouts standing in silence holding American flags in honor of Chance's sacrifice.
Today, in our town, at 2pm this scene will become real once again as the body of Lance Corporal Jeffery W. Johnson, age 21, who was killed in Afghanistan on May 11, will be returned home to his family. The city has asked the citizens to come out, and line the streets in support. The Patriot Guard Riders will also attend, as they always do when requested.
I am extremely disappointed that I will not be able to attend to show my support and appreciation, as Dustin has a doctors appointment. But my mind will reflect on this throughout the day and my prayers for comfort and peace for the family and wife he is survived by.
May we always remember that freedom always comes with a cost, and is truly never free.
5 comments:
Do you always choose movies that make your guest cry? (remember Charly) :)
Glad you suggested this. I will have to watch it.
I didn't know that streets were lined like that. I think that is great and very respectful. Thanks for mentioning this.
A moving honorarium in tribute of those who have fallen in service of their country.
Sounds like a good movie...I'll have to find it and watch it. Is it a fairly new release? Cuz all of our "movie rental" stores went out of business because of Redbox and I think Redbox only carries somewhat newer movies...I hope I can find it!! :) If not, bring your copy to Colorado!!! We can cry together!
I watched that movie in early 2009 and it about knocked me over. I was staying at a friend's house -- watching her dogs for a few days while she was out of town -- and I was trying to decide what I was going to write for my "Fiction" short story for class. "Taking Chance" prompted my decision to write "In Country."
My thoughts and prayers to Lance Corporal Johnson's family and friends as they lay him to rest. His sacrifice will not be forgotten.
Hi mom,
I've watched "Taking Chance". I loved that movie. It was sad and awesome!
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