Any who, long story short, I took the two attached photo’s while providing logistical support during a repatriation of remains from Hanoi, Vietnam.  The ceremony is extremely quiet and you will notice the U.S. flags are not draped over the coffins.  That is because we had not re-established diplomatic relations yet and Viet government would not allow us to unfurl the flags on the tarmac.  This was completed after the ceremony when everything was being button-up for departure.  The wooden boxes the solider is saluting is the actual box the Vietnam government provides to us with the remains.  This will be transferred to the metal coffins in picture #1.  I attended six Repat Ceremonies i Hanoi, but never had the chance to participate since I was working logistics and was kept busy before and after the ceremony and was covered with sweat, fuel and other who knows what by the end.  Was able to click a few photos for my memory of what I was part of.  Please use photos if you want, just wanted to provide to people who care and for them to remember that freedom cost more than just money and equipment, and some of us will never forget.

It was my honor to serve our fallen comrades in such a manner and to hopefully bring rest to their grieving families.  I pass around these two photos to either ex-military or to individuals who have a strong desire to support the true reason behind Memorial Day.  May God bless and your family, keep up the great job on your site.

SmokeyJazz