Jon Tumilson was born on July 1, 1976 in Osage, Iowa. He died August 6, 2011 when a rocket-propelled grenade disabled the helicopter he was in, killing 30 Americans and 8 Afghans.
The picture was taken by his cousin, Lisa. "I took this picture and that was my view throughout the entire funeral. I couldn't not take a picture", she told US television network ABC News.
Lisa also went on to say, "It took several attempts since every time I wasn't crying and could focus on taking it, there was a SEAL at the microphone and I didn't want to take a picture with them for security and respect reasons. Our family is devastated to say the least."
This devoted canine, Hawkeye led his family down the aisle into the funeral service in Rockford, Iowa. As Scott Nichols rose to deliver a eulogy, Hawkeye heaved a sigh and dropped to the ground in front of Petty Officer Tumilson 's casket.
A total of 38 people died when the CH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down on Aug 6 in the eastern province of Wardak, including seven Afghan troops and an interpreter.
My heart aches for the family of Petty Officer Jon T. Tumilson who was laid to rest on Friday. Hawkeye's devotion to his owner will remain in my heart for a long time.
7 comments:
My heart breaks for those parents and loved ones. When our son was stationed in Afghanistan every single day he was gone my stomach was upset. I went to the doctor to find out if I had ulcers. And then he came home and my stomach was fine. I had no idea it was him being over there that was causing such physical problems for me. Because even though I trusted God I also watched so many dead soldiers come home and I knew God loved them and their families just as much as He loved me and mine. So... I suppose my stomach took up the end result of that revelation.
Katt, forgot to say I'm following the weather reports on Global TV and I'm praying that you're okay. Sending good thoughts.
I'm glad he's home safe too. My heart aches for all the families with people in the military.
And thank you for your prayers. Irene swept quietly past us in the night, a little wind and rain. Then disappeared....Yeah, good night Irene...
I admire the men and women, who pay the price for freedom. May God comfort their families.
Susan,
Thanks so much for your comments. I've missed you my friend.
This was so beautiful and also touched my heart when I first saw it. I have been praying for the Lord to protect each and everyone of our troops and bring them safely home. I don't know how families cope, but we need to also pray for them!
Debbie,
I still get a lump in my throat when I see this picture. His cousin Lisa created a beautiful legacy to him. I'm praying for all of them who lost their lives that day....
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