color guard

Here is a disturbing story of how our leaders treat those who have made the
ultimate sacrifice in combat. From 10 News in
San Diego:

Marine Bodies Sent To Families On
Commercial Airliners

SAN DIEGO -- There's controversy over how the military is transporting
the bodies of service members killed overseas, 10News reported.

A local family said fallen soldiers and Marines deserve better and that
one would think our war heroes are being transported with dignity, care and
respect. It said one would think upon arrival in their hometowns they are
greeted with honor. But unfortunately, the family said that is just not the
case.

Dead heroes are supposed to come home with their coffins draped with the
American flag -- greeted by a color guard.

But in reality, many are arriving as freight on commercial airliners --
stuffed in the belly of a plane with suitcases and other cargo.

John Holley and his wife, Stacey, were stunned when they found out the
body of their only child, Matthew, who died in Iraq last month, would be
arriving at Lindbergh Field as freight.

"When someone dies in combat, they need to give them due respect they
deserve for (the) sacrifice they made," said John Holley.

John and Stacey Holley, who were both in the Army, made some calls, and
with the help of U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Matthew was greeted with honor and
respect.

"Our familiarity with military protocol and things of that sort allowed
us to kind of put our foot down -- we're not sure other parents have that
same knowledge," said Stacey Holley.

The Holleys now want to make sure every fallen hero gets the proper
welcome.