Once again our very own CarlS makes us all proud as he heads up yet another Patriot Guard mission, well done Carl.
Stomach Flu Keeps Protesters Away From Soldier’s Funeral
Sunday, February 24, 2008 12:19:56 AM
EUSTIS -- Hundreds of people showed up to honor the memory of a local soldier who was killed while fighting in Iraq.
Dozens of flags waved outside of Bay Street Baptist Church in honor of Sgt. John Osmolski.
The 23-year-old was killed by a bomb six days before he was supposed to come back home.
Protestors from Kansas that lead a campaign called “God Hates America” were scheduled to picket the service. However, they canceled at the last minute, saying the group came down with the stomach flu.
Friends, family and former military men and women said it allowed them to focus on what was really important.
The men and women who held up flags at the church are part of a statewide organization called the Patriot Guard.
The group travels to more than 50 memorial services, funerals and welcome home celebrations of soldiers each year.
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Final Inspection
The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining.
Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now,soldier.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"
The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.
But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep....
Though I worked a lot of overtime.
When the bills just got too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.
If you've a place for me here, Lord.
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don’t, I’ll understand.
There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now,soldier
you’ve borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets;
you’ve done your time in Hell."
- Author Unknown -
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