So this week has been very interesting. It went by fast, and there was lots to do and take in. Friday was the viewing. (closed Casket) It was really nice. We had it at the Lindquist Mortuary not to far from our house. It is the same mortuary that took care of my Grandma's funeral back in 2009. (I was still in Kuching, so I was unable to attend) We had all the flowers set up, we brought some pictures of Rapha, and displayed all of his metals and awards. My stepDad made a little dvd presentation with photos and music, so that played (and every 17 minutes I pressed the play button again). The Patriot Guard Riders stood outside with flags like they had done at HAFB. We had two men guarding the casket the whole time. They changed the guard and the flag covering the casket. Everything was great.
My Aunt and Uncle even drove up from AZ to be there. Right before the viewing was over (it went from 5-8pm, but we were there early) I left to go out to dinner with them.
I spent the night over at my Grandpa's house so I could help my Aunt cook her famous meatballs and sauce before the funeral. We got the sauce started before we left.
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| I received a Gold Star Lapel Pin for being Rapha's StepSister |
There was a viewing for an hour before the Funeral services. Lots of our neighbors and members of the ward came. My other Grandparents came too so that was nice to see them. We were also graced with the presence of the several members of the Military, the Governor of Utah, and the wonderful Patriot Riders stood outside holding flags.
The ceremony was very nice. My Uncles gave the prayers, I lead the music (We sang 'O My Father' and 'God Be With You 'till We Meet Again'. Rapha's parents spoke, along with Serginho and Paolo. General Devine was the first speaker then they presented Rapha's special metals to Sergio, Tercia, and Andrey - Purple Heart, Bronze Star etc. It was very impressive.
Then we went to the Memorial Park for the Interment. They got a plot next to my Grandma for Rapha to be buried. The National Guard carried the Casket from the Hearse to the graveside. Sergio dedicated the grave, there was a gun salute, and taps was played. Then the presentation of the flags. Sergio received the one from off the casket, then the other flags (from the night before) were again touched to the casket, then presented to Tercia, Andrey, and Serginho.
The Funeral was covered by the Standard Examiner. Here is a link for their pictures: http://www.standard.net/slideshows/2011/07/30/funeral-raphael-rodrigues-arruda
http://www.standard.net/stories/2011/07/30/fallen-utah-soldier-remembered-his-smile#.Tjc-gRNaT1w.facebook
Here are a couple pictures that I took (Click to Enlarge):
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| My Grandma |
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| These boxes help keep the integrity of the ground. |
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| Honor Guard bearing the casket, flanked by the Patriot Guard Riders |
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| Everything was carried out with great care and precision. I was impressed. |
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| Rapha's Casket. |
Afterwards, I went back over to my Grandpa's to help with the rest of the cooking. Once everyone came over we had dinner (which was amazing!) then watched the video my Uncle took of the Alaska trip that they just got back from. We got to hear all about the bears and things that they ran into. It was so great to be with everyone!
Then I ran home, packed up my things and drove down to Payson. Tonight we are going to the airport! Then we will be in Virginia for about 2 weeks. I am so excited for a vacation!
One thing I will definitely take away from this past week, is a heart full of gratitude for the outpouring of support and love from everyone. I was very impressed with the support from the Military, and the Patriot Guard Riders, Neighbors, Family and Friends.
