I Remember You
In 2013, I attended a Memorial Day service at Evergreen-Washelli Cemetery in Seattle for the 1.3 million Americans who have perished at war. For over 230 years we have lost an average of 15 people a day. For many of us, in our daily lives, it is all too easy to forget so I went to remind myself and to take a few shots of the long lines of grave stones, which reminded me of the National Cemetery in Arlington. Instead, I found myself moved not by the memorials of the fallen, but by the people remembering the fallen. Their stares and expressions communicating losses that I could not comprehend.
It was a miserable day with light rain. While all of the servicemen and women in attendance were unfailingly gracious, there was one sergeant, in dress blues, who was running around tirelessly wiping chairs dry, escorting the elderly to their seats, and spreading good cheer. The manner in which this soldier held himself and his unflappable spirit were small things compared to what he has undoubtedly done while in the service to his country. Nevertheless, it made a powerful impression upon me and other people that day. My one regret—and it still bothers me—was that I didn't ask that sergeant to stand still for 60 seconds so I could take a portrait and send it to him to thank him for his service and to let him know what a fine example he set.
Status: 20+ images in collection. 2013.