I arrived at Fort Myers the night before the service, I was staying on base and needed to get the lay of the land. I have never had my ID checked so many times before! At one point I was lost while driving around, so I was on my phone, a soldier sternly told me that being on a cell phone, while on base was not permitted. Yes sir!
Bright and early the morning of the service, I walked from the base, into Arlington. The day promised to be hot, but the early morning in Arlington was peaceful. As I walked through, I could already hear other burials taking place, and the volley of the gun salutes going off. There are up to 28 burials at Arlington every day. That is a lot of coordination on someone’s part!
I watched the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The mood amongst the crowd was solemn, and respectful.
I continued wandering the grounds, and finally ended up back at the Chapel on the base. The Navy band was lining up, and the family was heading inside the chapel. The band was playing as the casket was carried inside. I was rushing outside to capture everything, and then inside to capture the casket being carried in. All the while being quiet, and respectful, trying not to disturb anyone.
The service was beautiful. Family shared about Joe’s life, and his love of flying, his love for family and his love for his country. An excerpt from the program:
“In January 1941, a semester before graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and trained as a Naval aviator. Joe ultimately rose to the rank of Commander and was a highly decorated war hero receiving 3 Silver Stars, 5 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 7 Air Medals and other commendations for his bravery in the Pacific during WW II. When Joe’s fellow crewmen would refer to him as the “best pilot in the Pacific,” he would humbly say that it was because he had the “best crew.””
From listening to the family share at the service, and also at the luncheon afterwards, I knew that Joe had lived a long, and full life, shared by those he loved.

In the solemn walk to the burial site, we passed many headstones, and plots yet to be filled. I was deeply reminded of those who have given their lives, and those who are fighting for our country at this moment. I am thankful for men like Joe, who as a young man, felt the call to fight for his country, giving us freedom.

“They (Joe’s family) will miss his fascinating stories, playful nature and zest for life. He left footprints in their hearts and a legacy of service and honor truly worth emulating.”

It was an honor to capture this moment for Joe’s family. I know that they will share these images with generations to come, and tell stories of Joe’s life and service to our country.

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Joy | Raleigh Photographer