Honoring others is an important part of life. The Bible tells us in Ephesians 6:2-3 to “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Our calendar has many occasions reminding us to honor others, e.g. Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day, and others. Unfortunately, these holidays often become more about self-indulgence and time off from work.
Over the last few years I have had unique opportunities to serve and honor those who deserve service and honor. It has been my privilege and joy to do so. In 2008, I photographed the Veterans Day event at the Gallo Center for the Arts, with keynote speaker, 4-Star General, John Craddock. Below is a photograph from possibly the most moving presentation, where Michael D. Anderson spoke about his son, who was the first Modestan to die in the Iraq War.
Michael D. Anderson, Sr. and Jr.
This past spring I was asked by a wonderful friend to photograph the memorial service of her husband, who died unexpectedly. I did my best to capture the amazing service of this remarkable man, who left behind his first and only sweetheart, their two teenage children, a devastated District Attorney’s Office, much family, and many friends.
Police escourt of the Baker Family.
District Attorney remembering Nate Baker
Ryan Baker holding his dad's portrait
One of the weddings I covered this year was an opportunity to serve a very brave young man. Alex Blereau is a member of the Army’s elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regimen. Alex’s job will be to fly as a medic in a MH-60 Blackhawk helicopter into the most challenging and dangerous operations in Afghanistan.
Newlyweds Alex and Kari Blereau
Afterall, he is Airborne.
Alex's nephew admiring Alex's medals.
What I did not expect from each of these was to be honored in return. The director of the Veterans Day event at the Gallo, Steve Trapp, asked me to produce a slide show for this year’s event on Veterans Day. Another opportunity to honor our veterans, but an honor for me as well. You can view the slide show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-K8jRTXJSA
Ryan Baker honored me by asking me to help him with an assignment for his photography class. AND, I got to take him to an Air Show, where my friend, Sagar Pathak got us behind the scenes during part of the show.
Behind the Scenes with Bill Braak and His Jet Car, "Smoke and Thunder".
The most surprising honor was from Alex Blereau. Army personnel can honor others with a coin. I saw General Craddock honor Staff Sergeant Steve Trapp with a coin for his amazing work putting together the 2008 Veterans Day event. These coins are usually given to other soldiers, but can be given to a civilian. Well, I received this from Alex, who carried it on his first jump with the 160th.
So what is my point? Well, I guess I have two. First, photography has once again added so much to my life. But more significant is the importance of using your time, talent, and maybe treasure, to honor others. And while it is important not to do it for what you might get in return, don’t be too surprised if it comes back to you, sometimes with interest.
