thedrifter
09-05-07, 07:30 AM
One last goodbye
News Leader
Quietly friends and family filed into the tiny Oak Hill Cemetery as Marines brought in the casket of Pfc. John Palmer Lee Harris.
The Mount Solon native was buried with full military honors as a Marine brigade fired a 21-gun salute.
The quiet was broken once a Marine began to play "Taps." A wave of sorrow hit the group and cries rang out.
A Marine presented his mother, Nancy Harris, with the U.S. flag and a salute.
The family stood and gave their last respects to John P. His father, Thomas Harris, placed a single red rose on top of his son's casket.
The extended family and friends had a chance to say their goodbyes. Each touched the coffin and the tears flowed. Some left flowers or small objects in memory.
The family had everyone who wanted to sign John P.'s casket with little messages and sweet farewells.
Shannon Harris, John P.'s brother, wrote "Shannon Harris Luv U"
"Luv you Bro," Michael Harris wrote.
Daniel Strickler wrote, "Peace be with you John P. I'll see you on the other side, much love"
"God bless, Semper fi," wrote Staff Sgt. Spangler.
"A life too short" adorned the card left on the flowers brought by John P.'s uncles and aunt.
He touched many lives in his short time here, and they all came to honor him and say one last goodbye.
— Amanda Bowles, Photojournalist
Ellie
News Leader
Quietly friends and family filed into the tiny Oak Hill Cemetery as Marines brought in the casket of Pfc. John Palmer Lee Harris.
The Mount Solon native was buried with full military honors as a Marine brigade fired a 21-gun salute.
The quiet was broken once a Marine began to play "Taps." A wave of sorrow hit the group and cries rang out.
A Marine presented his mother, Nancy Harris, with the U.S. flag and a salute.
The family stood and gave their last respects to John P. His father, Thomas Harris, placed a single red rose on top of his son's casket.
The extended family and friends had a chance to say their goodbyes. Each touched the coffin and the tears flowed. Some left flowers or small objects in memory.
The family had everyone who wanted to sign John P.'s casket with little messages and sweet farewells.
Shannon Harris, John P.'s brother, wrote "Shannon Harris Luv U"
"Luv you Bro," Michael Harris wrote.
Daniel Strickler wrote, "Peace be with you John P. I'll see you on the other side, much love"
"God bless, Semper fi," wrote Staff Sgt. Spangler.
"A life too short" adorned the card left on the flowers brought by John P.'s uncles and aunt.
He touched many lives in his short time here, and they all came to honor him and say one last goodbye.
— Amanda Bowles, Photojournalist
Ellie