Farewell for now, but NOT forever....

6:20 p.m., EST 15 August 05 Or, to translate that into Baghdad time, 2:20 a.m., 16 August, 2005. On that date, Sgt. Michael J. Stokely was killed by an improvised explosive device in Yusufiyah, south of Baghdad.

Whatever time zone you are in, please pause at that time to remember this sweet Hero who served his country so well, and his family, who are shining examples of faith, determination, and strength in the midst of incredible pain.

I am leaving work shortly after this post goes up on my blog. In tribute to Mike, I give you the hallowed song of military final farewells.......

Taps

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky;
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Fading light, dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar, drawing nigh, falls the night.

Thanks and praise, for our days,
'Neath the sun, 'neath the stars,
neath the sky;
As we go, this we know, God is nigh.

Sun has set, shadows come,
Time has fled, Scouts must go to their beds
Always true to the promise that they made.

While the light fades from sight,
And the stars gleaming rays softly send,
To thy hands we our souls, Lord, commend.