On Friday night, there was a viewing for Cody. All week I had been planning on going because I couldn't make it to the airport when his body was flown in, which made me really sad. I went out to my car on Friday to go the viewing and I had a flat tire. I was so frustrated because I was already in a hurry to get there, and it was so important to me to go. One of my neighbors came outside and put my spare tire on my car, it was so nice! I was so relieved. Then I called Big O Tires and they said they were closing in just a minute. I asked if they knew if any other places were open, and they said that most places close at the same time. Then he said that he could wait and fix it for me when I get there. So I took my car and the employees stayed like 20 minutes late to fix it for me! I was so happy about their kindness! I went to the viewing, it was at his family's house. It was so cool to see the memorial his Dad set up for him outside their home!
They also had all of his awards that he's earned in the army set up at their home. He is such an honorable man. The other thing I was so happy to see was that there were guards standing next to his casket at all times! That shows so much respect to Cody, and that's exactly what he deserves. I'm glad our army shows so much respect to our fallen soldiers.
There were flags leading all the way from the freeway exit to the Towse's house in honor of Cody. There were signs on businesses that said things about Cody and him being a hero, and there were flags lowered the entire way. It's all just so awesome to me!
Saturday was the funeral. That was a rough day, but I was lucky to have one of my brothers and one of my good friends (who was also good friends with Cody) with me.
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| Holly & I look more alike than Matt & I do.. haha |
It was a sad day (obviously) but also one of the most amazing and spiritual experiences I've had. There were so many people there to show support to Cody's family and show respect for Cody. It was seriously amazing listening to them talk about him and how thankful they are for his service. I can't remember exactly who said this, but one of the speakers said, "There's nothing more patriotic than a casket with an American flag draped over it." How true that is!
It was such a humbling experience hearing about what these men and women (in the army) will do to protect each other. These people out there fighting for their country and their fellow soldiers are so brave, I can't even imagine being so strong. Hearing letters written to Cody from his fellow soldiers and about experiences they had together were so genuine and full of love. A man came and spoke at the funeral, who was the uncle of a soldier who lost both of his legs and part of one of his hands in the same explosion that took Cody's life. It was said that this soldier was trying to help his fallen brothers when this happened. How brave and how amazing. And to think, over here we complain about being "tired" or having a cold. Ha! Our soldiers are special people that were definitely sent down here for a purpose.
Cody's sweet mother got up and bore her testimony. I can't imagine the pain she must be going through, yet her testimony is still so beautiful and so strong. It was such a testimony builder to me to see the mother of a fallen soldier get up and speak about about her love for the Lord. She is a strong woman.
Cody's funeral was being broadcast for the other soldiers (and whoever else wanted) to hear. There was a time when one of his uncles got up to speak about the LDS church's beliefs, since not everyone listening knew what all of the things being said meant. He mentioned why we say that we will see Cody again. And I realized that not everyone knows they will see their family & friends again after something tragic happens. That breaks my heart completely. I am so thankful that we are blessed to know that we WILL see them again and that they are on the other side rooting for us and excited for our reunion. We are so blessed.
Seeing all of the fire trucks, motorcycles, and Ambulance following the car taking Cody's body to the cemetery was one of the coolest things I've seen. It's so good to know that he's being shown the respect he deserves.
Cody was an amazing person. He was so hilarious and sarcastic and he cared so much about people. It's no surprise that he left this earth in the most honorable and respectable way possible, trying to save another person. The memories of our friendship will serve as a constant reminder to me to try to be more like him, and show love and genuine kindness to all people.
I love you, my friend! I am forever grateful to you for your service to our country and for our special friendship. The example you set for me and love you showed to me will forever be in my heart and mind.
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