Saturday was a solemn day for our office. The emergency recall for our medical personnel sounded in the afternoon. I rushed to the EMEDS facility where I was briefed regarding casualties the army had taken. Anytime casualties come into our EMEDS, our personnel areready to go to insure they received the best possible care, and we as chaplains are on hand to provide support to the medical team and to any of their fellow soldiers.
When those who have lost their lives in service to their country are carried about the aircraft for their final trip home, we have what is called a "ramp ceremony" where in solemn dignity fellow soldiers and servicemembers render honors in formation and pay their last respects.
This evening I have two services where I plan to have a moment of silence and prayer for the families of the deceased in Iraq this week as well as for the healing and recovery of our wounded.
