R.I.P. Sean 
Never above you, never below you, always beside you.
*
Marine Sgt. Sean T. Callahan, whose remains rest in the casket above, was killed by an IED in Afghanistan two years ago. My son was in the same battalion and really liked Sean for his quick wit and straightforward sensibility. I came to know Sean’s parents that year as our small group of Marine Moms and Dads supported each other through the long days and nights of our sons’ deployment.
As Sean’s father said the other day, Memorial Day is not just about beaches, BBQ’s and beer. Before he lost his son that idea was lost on him, as it probably is on most of us. If you don’t take a moment today to remember, do it soon. And don’t forget all the men and women who have suffered and are living with serious physical and mental injuries as a consequence of their involvement in this war.
*
This week’s Daily Post Weekly Photo Challenge, “In the Background” is to take a photograph of yourself or another person, putting the emphasis of the image on a different area, not on the person. This photo, which I took two years ago during Sean’s funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, is my response to the photo challenge.
It also serves as a reminder of what Memorial Day was intended to signify. The young Marine in the foreground was part of the Honor Guard on that difficult day. What was he thinking?
More responses to this weeks photo challenge can be seen here.
bluebrightly 
Very touching remembrance.
LikeLike
Thank you very much, Gunta. I appreciate it.
LikeLike
There are those of us who carry those memories all through the year.
LikeLike
I know. I’m sorry – and I know you are not asking for sympathy, but rather reminding us that every situation is unique, and we need to be aware of one another’s suffering.
LikeLike
Outstanding as always. R.I.P. Sean.
LikeLike
Wow! Brings back powerful memories and thoughts to furrylittlegnome – especially during the Memorial Day weekend. A family member survived a mortar attack on May 25, 2004 at FOB Kalsu in Iraq where others in the squad did not.
LikeLike
That’s very tough. I don’t know how those guys handle it. Thanks for commenting, and have a safe rest of the weekend –
LikeLike
What a poignant reminder and touching tribute…
LikeLike
Thank you –
LikeLike
For every young Marine, military person, I have always had the one wish that they become old soldiers. My best wishes to you and your family and to Sean’s family with the heartbreak that is every day . . . .
LikeLike
Old soldiers – I love that. At the funeral there were several old soldiers – quite old – it seemed they didn’t know Sean, but came regularly to funerals at Arlington. I really was moved seeing them salute as the casket was steadied onto the caisson. Sean’s family is incredibly strong. They’re great people and have good support from many corners, but they do not have their son. Don’t get me started on war…
LikeLike
Wonderful and powerful shot
LikeLike
Thank you.
LikeLike
Very powerful image and a touching remembrance to this Memorial Day – thank you.
LikeLike
And thank you for taking the time to post a comment.
LikeLike
A beautiful tribute to a fallen soldier, Lynn, and a great reminder to all of us as to what Memorial Day is really all about. A great choice for the challenge too. You really wrapped everything together nicely. 🙂
LikeLike
Pingback: Weekly Photo Challenge: In the Background | Ryan Photography
Amazing shot and post. Thank you for sharing this powerful tribute.
LikeLike
Thanks for the important reminder. Well done. RIP Sean and all of the others who made the ultimate sacrifice.
LikeLike
Thank you Tina – I appreciate your taking the time to comment.
LikeLike
A heartfelt post Lynn. We lived in Afghanistan for two years and in that time felt the nearness of the loss of friends known to us and those we only knew by name. Yet, the immensity of such moments is never lost. Thank you for this tender remembrance. Sharon
LikeLike
Thank you for this thoughtful comment. A good way to phrase it – the immensity of such moments is never lost.
LikeLike
Excellent and thanks for sharing this.
janet
LikeLike
Thank you!
LikeLike
Beautifully done all around.
LikeLike
Thank you very much.
LikeLike
Pingback: Weekly Photo Challenge: In the Background | From the 90's
Thank you for this….
LikeLike
Beautiful tribute. A good reminder for all of us. 🙂
LikeLike
The photo says so much. I don’t forget…Thanks for posting this tribute.
LikeLike
Pingback: Weekly Photo Challenge: In the Background | rfljenksy – Practicing Simplicity
Thanks!
LikeLike
Silence that speaks better than words!
LikeLike