– Let’s Pay Him Tribute
When I was younger, respect for others was something my parents drilled into me. They knew the importance of showing respect in certain situations, and I grew up with that same sense of purpose.
That’s why I was deeply moved when I came across a photo of a U.S. soldier standing to attention in the pouring rain. The person who took the photo knew it had to be shared, and I’m grateful they did.
Unsurprisingly, the picture went viral, with people rushing to honor the soldier.
What he said after being identified truly highlighted his character…
It was July 6, 2017. Erin Hester was at an intersection on a highway in Vine Grove, Kentucky.
She saw a soldier standing at attention in the driving rain. Puzzled, she watched for a moment before realizing he was saluting a passing funeral procession. He wasn’t part of it and didn’t know the deceased.
Hester knew she had to capture the moment. Her photo, shared on social media, received widespread positive attention.
Hester posted on Facebook: “I was so completely touched by this today. A funeral procession was passing by, and this soldier got out of his jeep to stand at attention in the pouring rain. I always get frustrated when I see cars that don’t pull to the side and stop for a procession, but this gentleman went above and beyond.
“I feel pretty confident that there isn’t a military rule that soldiers have to do this. This made my heart happy to see the amount of respect that this gentleman showed a family that he doesn’t even know. #values #respect.”
Soldier Identified
After her post went viral, WHAS11 identified the soldier responsible for the touching act. He was Col. Jack L. Usrey, the Senior Army Advisor of the Tennessee Army National Guard.
Col. Usrey humbly refused the praise, instead stating: “I owe it to my parents, Jim and Judy Usrey, from Martin, TN. They taught me to do this from my earliest memories.
“I’m humbled and surprised at the reaction to such a simple gesture. My first thoughts were about how the bad weather can’t be helping how the family feels. I hoped my small action would let them know we care.”
You can learn more about the story in the video below:
Col. Usrey might downplay his gesture, but we see it as a powerful and admirable way to show respect. Help us pay tribute to him by sharing this story.
