In a heartbreaking turn of events, a woman in black approached, put her hands on a casket covered in a flag, and started crying. The deeply touching image was seen by millions of people as it went viral online.
The people we love have our best interests at heart and may even put themselves in danger to keep us safe. But consider what a soldier who is responsible for defending the lives and freedom of every state citizen must be thinking and feeling.
Thanks to the immense sacrifices of these valiant warriors, we are bestowed with the precious gift of freedom and the privilege to cherish the company of our cherished ones while leading a joyful and purposeful existence. With each passing day, their unwavering dedication revolves around shielding us from harm and fear, never hesitating to place their own lives at stake.
To possess the fortitude, gallantry, selflessness, and love required to prioritize the well-being of others and ensure that people rest peacefully in the embrace of safety each night is truly commendable. The narrative we are about to unfold sheds light on the countless sacrifices often overlooked and the silent anguish and sorrow borne by individuals.
Residing in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Shawn David Thomas formed a harmonious household alongside his wife, Tara Thomas, and their four children, namely Cheyenne, Taylor, Gavin, and Natylyn. Apart from being a devoted spouse and an exceptional parent, Shawn also held the esteemed position of a Special Forces warrant officer.
In the beginning of 2017, Warrant Officer 1 Shawn Thomas of the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group was serving in Niger, Africa, on his ninth deployment, when he was involved in an accident. His death notice said:
“While serving in Niger, Africa, Shawn was killed in a car accident on February 2, 2017. Shawn has served in defence of our freedom on eight occasions while doing a profession he loved.
Shawn, 35, was a Green Beret and an Echo in the Special Forces. He completed his training as a warrant officer in December 2016. The officer, his wife, and their four children made their home in North Carolina.
Underneath his large beard, tattoos, and bulky physique, Shawn was a small-town Oklahoma kid who was rooted in his views, morals, and principles.
Williams made the decision to take further action after observing the responses of the other passengers.
Shawn’s flag-draped casket landed at Raleigh-Durham International Airport in Morrisville, North Carolina, on February 14, 2017. Lisa West Williams, a traveler aboard the aircraft, videotaped the soldiers in action.
A woman wearing all black approached Shawn’s coffin as it was taken off of the aircraft.
Standing in the pouring rain, the woman in mourning laid her hands tenderly on the stars and stripes of the American flag before sobbing uncontrollably. She was slouched over the casket of her deceased spouse and was unable to stop caressing and cuddling it.
Williams claimed to have shot the video out of the plane’s window and described how she was overcome with emotion. Added her:
“I was at the ideal location [to shoot] the ideal scenario, and it just so occurred. Oh, I wept. I sobbed uncontrollably. I cried and sneezed just like I did when I was younger. It was painful to see.
However, the traveller saw that she wasn’t the only one who was affected by the dramatic sight. Around her, other passengers shared her sentiments, and several of them broke down in tears. Williams stated:
They were simply shocked and in tears. Snorts were audible. ‘Oh, another angel’s coming home,’ the woman in front of me truly exclaimed.
Williams explained that she wanted to show her children the tragic incident and educate them about the courageous policemen’ daily sacrifices when asked why she felt the need to videotape it.
The compassionate individual approached Tara, the wife of the late Warrant Officer Shawn, seeking her consent to share the poignant video online. Following Tara’s approval, the heartfelt footage was swiftly disseminated on various social media platforms, captivating millions of viewers. The woman further disclosed:
“Tara desired to exhibit to the world that these profound moments transpire and that we should express gratitude for these exceptional men and women.”
During his dedicated service, Shawn’s valor and commitment were recognized with the bestowal of two Bronze Stars and Good Conduct Medals. As a testament to his exemplary contributions in Niger, he was posthumously presented with a Meritorious Service Medal and an Army Commendation Medal. Shawn found his final resting place in the sacred grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
Numerous internet users expressed their admiration and support for Tara and the remarkable courage displayed by her late husband, Shawn. One individual eloquently remarked, “Freedom is not bestowed freely; it is the price paid by the lives of courageous men and women.” Another commentator, an Australian soldier, shared a deeply personal reflection:
“Even after nearly a decade, it still profoundly impacts me to consider that it could have been my wife standing beside my coffin. However, one Marine selflessly sacrificed his life to preserve mine and that of my comrade. I never had the opportunity to know him or learn his name, but it is his ultimate sacrifice that enabled me to return home to my children.”
“So grateful for our troops, and also so sad that we live in a violent world that needs them,” a different commenter said. Godspeed to the bereaved wife and family of this slain hero. It was crucial that everyone watch this video.