I work as a DoD contractor in SSG Bennett’ parent unit in Afghanistan. For our fallen, we conduct a dignified transfer ceremony at the airfield. The ceremony where the military placed SSG Bennett into an empty C-17 is very moving. Several hundred soldiers, mostly US, but also soldiers from all the nations here on KAF form up on both sides of the ramp of the airplane. An MRAP brings the casket to about 200 yards from the formation of troops. The pall bearers carry the flag draped coffin from the MRAP to about 100 yards from the formation of soldiers to where a senior officer and Command Sergeant Major awaits. They salute the coffin and lead the pall bearers into the airplane. As the pall bearers approach the formation, the band plays amazing grace. As the pall bearers pass, the Commander of Troops brings the formation to present arms. As the pall bearers reverently placed SSG Bennett’s coffin in the C-17, the bugler played taps. The pall bearers exit the airplane, the Commander of Troops retires the colors. Very sad and very moving. The C-17 carries nothing but the coffin. May God bless SSG Bennett and all our fallen.
Thank you for the insight. Much appreciated.