An American Story

[MercedesV]

Bakersfield, California (CNN) -- When Vincent Barrett died alone in July at age 72, the coroner's office could not find any next of kin.

Similarly, Ronald Axtell was listed as indigent -- no survivors and no funds for a funeral -- when he died at age 69.

And yet a small army of men and women gathered to pay their respects to the two men, both Air Force veterans, as they were buried at Bakersfield National Cemetery in September.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/11/07/vif2.unknown.vets/index.html

[MercedesV]

I also was very touched by this story. And to me, this is America, what Americans do. They honoured this men for their service, richly deserved. How good to know someone who had earned a purple heart was remembered in the fitting service. And how wonderful that so many came out to pay their respects, including flowers that said it all, Thank You. It seems that the motorcyclists were there, they don't forget any of the military.

With all the tragedy this week, it was uplifting to hear about good Americans doing the right thing, for the right reasons.

[syringa]

I also found the story to be very moving and uplifting. This IS what America is about and what Americans do. Stories like this happen across the country all the time but don't always get noticed beyond their immediate communities.

This is also a tribute to what private organizations and charities do. They are the backbone of this country and thrive and do good works absent government.

[Lifeguard]

Bakersfield, California (CNN) -- When Vincent Barrett died alone in July at age 72, the coroner's office could not find any next of kin.

Similarly, Ronald Axtell was listed as indigent -- no survivors and no funds for a funeral -- when he died at age 69.

And yet a small army of men and women gathered to pay their respects to the two men, both Air Force veterans, as they were buried at Bakersfield National Cemetery in September.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/11/07/vif2.unknown.vets/index.html

Stories like this can bring tears to the eyes! I am so happy to hear heart-warming stories about REAL Americans, just doing the right thing. We hear so much about ugly stuff, but I STILL think the majority of Americans are pretty nice and caring people.

[MercedesV]

Gd Bless. Tears, thanks and love to these wonderful caring American folks. :loveeyes:
Mercedes, the film is so wonderful, respectful and loving.

I'm really glad you liked it too. It touched me and wanted to share it. It seems it reaches all who read it as it should. I think it represents the best in Americans without mention of any other label but American.

Sometimes we need to recharge the batteries so to speak, and something like this can help to remind us who we are.