January 27, 2007 3:40 PM
Final Salute
Rocky Mountain News reporter Jim Sheeler and photographer Todd Heisler spent the past year with the Marines stationed at Aurora's Buckley Air Force Base who have found themselves called upon to notify families of the deaths of their sons in Iraq. In each case in this story, the families agreed to let Sheeler and Heisler chronicle their loss and grief. They wanted people to know their sons, the men and women who brought them home, and the bond of traditions more than 200 years old that unite them.
Though readers are led through the story by the white-gloved hand of Maj. Steve Beck, he remains a reluctant hero. He is, he insists, only a small part of the massive mosaic that is the Marine Corps.
February 19, 2007
1:03 AM
cait writes:
amazing story.
February 23, 2007
12:00 PM
Dave Kristick writes:
As a veteran, I am so proud of the Cathey family for their willingness to share their story, the Marines for the professional manner in which they continue this profound tradition and the Rocky for sharing this touching story with its readers.
Thank you
March 8, 2007
12:52 PM
Julia Simpkins writes:
I agree with the first veteran. I too am a veteran and stories like this make me so proud of those who continue to serve our country in uniform. At Fort Jackson, S.C., where I work, the Casualty Assistance Officer was just voted Employee of the Year this morning. Now I see why ...
March 15, 2007
11:29 AM
Huong writes:
I was one of the journalism students at West Virginia University, who had a chance to hear Jim Sheeler's presentation last Thursday at our school. I had read this story many times and I was truly touched by what he said. The story has become a model for my stories. And he is the kind of reporter that all of us want to be. After all, that's the reason why we're in this business: to listen to people's stories.
April 6, 2007
12:28 AM
JAY CONNOLLY writes:
AS A MARINE VETERAN, I APPRECIATE THE DEVOTION TO DUTY SHOWN BY MAJOR BECK, AND THE PROFESSIONALISM WITH WHICH HE AND HIS MEN CARRY OUT THEIR IMPORTANT ROLES. I PRAY FOR THOSE DUTIES TO END SOON, THAT THESE MARINES MAY RETURN HOME TO THEIR LOVED ONES.
June 23, 2007
9:51 PM
Andrea writes:
Bravo!!!! Wonderful article!!!! A masterpiece.
July 9, 2007
4:27 PM
Mother Of A Marine writes:
THANK YOU........
August 31, 2007
7:58 PM
Rick Blanchard writes:
This story is absolutley amazing. Having been raised since birth in Colorado (Colorado Springs) and served in the Corps (Viet Nam), it makes me proud to be from Colordo and be a Marine. This story truly tears at the heart as only something pure and from the soul can do. Bless every person connected with this story, and to the Cathey family, it is OUR honor to read your story.
September 7, 2007
8:20 AM
Daniel Ortega writes:
Amazing. Mr. Sheeler and his staff of journalists really did an incredible job. A profound thank you to the families who were willing to share their stories for this piece. I came across this article while I was searching for ideas on what to include in my OCS application essay of "Why I Want to be an Army Officer". I think I finished in 15 minutes after this....
October 25, 2007
8:28 PM
Dan Morell writes:
A heart felt Thank You to the all the dedicated servicemen and women that take up the delicate job of ministering to our fallen heroes. Special thanks to the sensitive Journalists and Photographers that captured the images and indeed the heart of such an important part of our freedom. And a slow salute to the loved ones of our heroes that have paid the ultimate sacrifice and for the departed.
God Bless America.
Dan Morell Jr.
(Navy veteran and Pastor)
November 11, 2007
3:24 AM
hwilson996 writes:
Thank You to the families who chose to open your lives, and share your stories. Everyday gratitude is owed for the price you pay.
Thank You to Major Beck- the grace, honor and dignity that you live by demonstrates the soul of this country.
Thank you to Todd Heilser for capturing moments that there are no words for and Jim Sheeler for finding the words to do them justice.
Amazing Piece!
December 1, 2007
9:52 PM
Wayne McKeegan writes:
This work of art is an incredible tribute to all those who have volunteered, served, and given all. The respect shown the families is stunning and is a precious gift to those who will forever know a gaping hole in their heart. Thank you to you, Mr. Sheeler and Mr. Heisler, for your artistry. Thank you to you, Major Beck and the United State Marine Corps, for honoring these fallen heros and their families. Thank you to the Catheys, the Burns’, and the Welkes. We owe each of you a fathomless debt. May God bless each of our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coast Guardsmen, their loved ones, and our country.
December 4, 2007
7:36 AM
Mary Ann writes:
These photos still bring tears to my eyes and makes my heart ache...I can only image the grief these families are going thru. I am so proud to be an American and so honored that these fine soldiers took care of us that they gave their lives to their country. May God Bless every single family and bring them peace that one day we will see our loves ones again. Many Blessings.
December 4, 2007
7:09 PM
Dale writes:
Thank you for showing the importance of the loss of a human life from a combat casualty. I have known several men who have lost their lives while serving this country. I spent 20 years serving, my 3 sons are serving, my younger brother (deceased) served as a marine. Every man and woman who serves is doing something so that someone else won't have to. Our troops deserve our undying gratitude for everything they have to endure.
January 31, 2008
8:19 PM
SBarrett writes:
My heart aches for the families and the CAO's from every branch of service. I lost my daughter during the Persian Gulf war 13 years ago.She was in the Army. Two more of my daughters have since joined the military. One in the Air Force National Guard (served during Katrina). One in the Army National Guard (just returned home after spending a year in Balad, Iraq). The pictures brought memories and tears flooding back.
I also work for an airline in Denver and whenever we have military personal on board I always extend my thanks for their service. I appreciate all that they sacrifice for the rest of us.
Thank you for running this story, for the journalists who wrote/photographed, for the CAO's for doing the terribly difficult job that they do and most of all for the soldiers/marines/airmen/and sailors who sacrifice so that we may continue to live out our American dreams.
February 5, 2008
3:15 PM
Lori Thomas writes:
Thank you to all the Marines. I never realized what you do and are doing. I have to say as I sat here telling my 14 year old son of this story and showing him the pictures it was hard to keep the tears from shedding.
May God Bless and keep you.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
March 14, 2008
12:30 PM
Barb writes:
Deserving of the Pulitzer prize...and etched into my mind forever.
June 3, 2008
2:29 PM
Michael J. Simonetti writes:
I can honestly say that I have never read a more honest, heartfelt,moving account of devotion, sacrifice, compassion & dignity of the human spirit than "Final Salute". Maj. Steve Beck is a credit to the U.S.M.C. brotherhood and is the personification of their motto, "Semper Fidelis". From where did he draw the strength to perform this heavy responsibility with such grace & sensitivity? It was a labor of love in the truest sense of the word.
Jim Sheeler has given all Americans a testimonial of bravery that not only honors these heros but, their families as well who must bear the heartache of their loss for the rest of their lives.
I am not ashamed to say that I cried more than once before I finished it. The Pulitzer could not have been placed in more deserving hands.
May God Bless America & all those who defend our freedoms past & present. May our honored dead rest in eternal peace.
June 5, 2008
1:23 AM
Sarah H writes:
Thank You.
On a recent flight from NY to LA I was witness to a final salute. We were still at our gate when our captain told us we were delayed because the plane next to us was carrying a fallen soldier. He was also a former NYPD member. As I peered out the windowed I saw tons of fire trucks, police officers and lots of marines. I had a direct view to the cargo opening under the plane. I saw it all. I began to cry and hold my hand over my heart. Other passengers were nervous and looked at their cell phones, some grabbed a magazine. When I saw your photograph I began to cry. The memory of what I witnessed all flooded back to me. It was a beautiful ceremony and saddest thing I had ever experienced in public. To have it captured on film is remarkable. The moment will stay with me forever.
June 5, 2008
9:10 AM
Robert A, Wheeler writes:
While it may be argued that photojournalism isn’t art, although one needs to be there, have the equipment, be able to select the time of exposure, on and on. Todd Heisler’s image that appears today (June 5, 2008) on The Arts first page of the New York Times, is stunning. Composition, displaying technology, tradition, thoughtful confusion, a place in time.
June 5, 2008
9:14 AM
Former Marine writes:
Thank you. Beautiful, important work that the Rocky Mountain News is doing.
June 5, 2008
9:15 AM
Former Marine writes:
Thank you. Beautiful, important work that the Rocky Mountain News is doing.
June 5, 2008
3:20 PM
Nate Levin writes:
This article caused me to reconsider my actions during the run-up to the war in 2002-3. I was always opposed to the war, and I did some things to express my opposition. The things I did including writing into the local newspaper and to my elected representatives. But I could have done more. I had my reasons for not doing more, but now I wonder if those reasons were sufficient. Next time I hope to be more careful about deciding how far to go in taking a stand against something I believe to be wrong. And as far as wars go, I suspect there will be a next time.
June 5, 2008
6:42 PM
Unknown writes:
We had to take turns reading in our English class in 06 because everyone kept choking up. Truly powerful writing, and worth sharing with everyone you know. Can't comprehend how our Congress can authorize a war knowing the human costs like those featured in this article. Does Bush have a conscious? Doubt it.
June 7, 2008
9:07 PM
Mary Kaminski writes:
Where do we find such heroes? How do they bear the burden of such service to our country? They are the best of us, the best of America.
It makes me so proud of those Marines as they give such love and care to the fallen warriors that have given their last full measure of devotion to their country. The actions of these men and women surely demonstrate the true meaning of "Semper Fi".
God Bless them, one and all.
June 7, 2008
9:09 PM
Mary Kaminski writes:
Where do we find such heroes? How do they bear the burden of such service to our country? They are the best of us, the best of America.
It makes me so proud of those Marines as they give such love and care to the fallen warriors that have given their last full measure of devotion to their country. The actions of these men and women surely demonstrate the true meaning of "Semper Fi".
God Bless them, one and all.
June 9, 2008
10:05 PM
Paul B writes:
You have two exceptional people on your staff: Jim Sheeler and Todd Heisler!
I am amazed over the content, quality and editing evident in these slideshows.
I have passed this link to everyone on my email list.
Congratulations on a very touching, deserving protrait of American families who have "sacrificed everything" so we can have the freedom we all enjoy.
June 24, 2008
1:19 AM
Gil Travis writes:
Reading this story..with its haunting images and emotional depth...
my thoughts are of the countless families over the centuries that have had a "final salute" to a loved one.
Being a Viet Nam era Marine I have witnessed too many Final Salutes..
I have learned that conflict..war..in any name.. is man kinds worst
plague upon itself.
This story..with its heartbreak and pain illuminates for all those have read..and should read it..the fact that our freedom comes with a price that is paid in coin more valuable than gold..or the rarest jewel.
It is paid by men and women..by families and friends.
With tears.
Great loss
And pain.
By both the living and the dead.
June 24, 2008
1:20 AM
Gil Travis writes:
Reading this story..with its haunting images and emotional depth...
my thoughts are of the countless families over the centuries that have had a "final salute" to a loved one.
Being a Viet Nam era Marine I have witnessed too many Final Salutes..
I have learned that conflict..war..in any name.. is man kinds worst
plague upon itself.
This story..with its heartbreak and pain illuminates for all those have read..and should read it..the fact that our freedom comes with a price that is paid in coin more valuable than gold..or the rarest jewel.
It is paid by men and women..by families and friends.
With tears.
Great loss
And pain.
By both the living and the dead.
July 12, 2008
9:47 AM
Bill Feller writes:
After reading the story and attached photos I can only give a big HOORAH to the families of our fallen comrades and heroes. I recently retired from the Navy and can feel for Major Beck and his Marines. Their assignment and duty to bring home their fellow Marines is probably the hardest duty one could pull. Serving overseas and worrting about getting home safely is one thing. Being the person to deliver that message that one families loved will not be coming home is the hardest duty any military person can pull. The emotion and sense of duty that goes into the job is overwhelming.
Having served as a Casualty Assistance Calls Officer in the Navy and escorting the bodies of fallen sailors myself, I know how Major Beck feels and his sense of duty in getting the job done right. I remember one flight when I escorted the body of a fallen shipmate home and the pilot asked everyone for the time to allow me to do my duty and make sure the casket was honorably offloaded off of the plane and into the waiting hearse. Knowing the eyes of so many are watching you want everything to be perfect so the fallen are given their proper respect and honor.
I salute with reverence the fallen, their families, and those that bring them home. HOORAH!!!
Bill Feller
Chief Petty Officer, US Navy, Retired
Kansas City, MO.
July 24, 2008
4:50 PM
Jace writes:
As the mother of a Marine currently serving in Afghanistain this was the subject we spoke of most often before her deployment. You see she is the one who writes the letter home when a member of her platoon is KIA and it is so very hard. I wait in fear that I will one day receive the message that she has fallen. I asked her the last time why? The answer "All people deserve to live in freedom." Thank you for this story it needs to be told and retold.
August 5, 2008
11:47 AM
shannon writes:
This story is incredible. We all hear the stories from the media about the horrible attrocities that are happening overseas. Some may be true and some may false and over exaggerated, but this story was a soft and sensitive look at something most of us would never even think of. This man has one of the hardest jobs imaginable, I could not even fathom having to tell someones husband, wife, mother, or father that thier loved one has died. This man does it with passion and compassion, these people whose lives he has touched, in a weird way, have been blessed. Beck is a wonderful man who has been sent to them to give them the worst news of thier lives... but he remains in thier lives to soften the blow and to give them comfort in their time of need. We don't think about the men and women who have to tell the families about these huge losses. We always think about the families, the survivors, the fallen soldiers, which we should. But, we should also be thinking of the men and the women who have to bare the burden of bringing this news to the family. To try and put myself in their shoes, I can't even begin to think of the pain that they see, or feel. How they must long for thier own child when they have to tell a parent that thier child has died. Or how they must want to wrap thier arms around thier spouse, when they tell a women she will never see her husband again, as he has given the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
October 21, 2008
11:43 AM
Chelsea Tull writes:
Thank you.
December 29, 2008
3:53 AM
Maria writes:
I wanted to take the time to say "Thank You" for this book. Being in the military and hearing all the negative experiences that loved ones sometimes have with CAO's, it was good to read a different story for a change. If all were like MAJ.Beck and his team, it would be a easier experience for the loved ones of a fallen Service Member.During their time in need a CAO can make all the difference.
Reading this book brought tears to my eyes so many times, but it was worth it!
By now so many people have forgotten that we still loose Service Members each day, it has become old news to so many. But this book brings it back. hearing their stories maybe will remind somebody out there that they cannot be forgotten.
Again, thank you for remembering when so many are forgetting!
February 22, 2009
1:00 PM
Robert Watters writes:
From the bottom of my heart I want to say "THANK YOU" for making this story possible! It was absolutley beautiful and well written.
To Mr. Sheeler, Mr. Heisler, and Major Beck, Semper Fi!
February 28, 2009
6:57 PM
TXSFRED writes:
The long green line, edged in Gold and Red...
EEEEEERRRRRAAAAAAAGGGGGGGHHHHH!!
and
Semper Fi
2018797, SIR!
May 6, 2009
12:47 PM
Dan Harbin writes:
These pictures took my breath away, American Soldiers, we owe them everything. Thanks Rock Mountain News, AND TODD HEISLER!
May 12, 2009
6:58 PM
rose laurin writes:
Thanks for a beautifully written book. I cried a thousand tears.
My former husband was in the Vietnam conflict, was hit, and lost a leg. I was pregnant for our first child. It brought back a lot of memories.
The repercussions of war hurt like hell.
Our soldiers not only fight for our freedom and our country but for other countries as well.
I'll remember their sacrifices forever and the sacrifices of their families.
Your story and photos send a profound message to the reader.
Major Beck is phenominal. What a wonderful man.