Monday Mood: Honoring Lieutenant Deputy Michael Hoosock and All Who Serve

As I watch the sober funeral procession of Onondaga County Lieutenant Deputy Michael Hoosock today, my memory brings forth a similar procession when my father-in-law was transported from a funeral home to his final resting place by Onondaga County policemen in 1999, since my brother-in-law was an Onondaga County Sheriff.

It felt so extremely special for the family to be escorted in such a special way with a motorcycle and car escort. Not only did you feel like the person who died was being cuddled in the bright lights of red and blue, but the importance of the policeman’s duty and dedication to anyone within their larger family also. I know my father-in-law would have been honored.

My paternal grandfather’s six brothers all served in the Navy and spoke of their brotherhood of serving for the United States. My father served as an Army Policeman in Germany for a year and was always proud of his service. The tattoo on his left arm of the American Flag with an eagle always reminded me of his service. He always saluted the flag when he saw one.

As my uncle was buried at Saratoga’s Veterans Cemetery a few years ago and when my aunt joined him in October, I had the privilege of being on the holy grounds on a beautiful autumn day. How somber and peaceful the grounds were holding the bodies of so many servicemen and servicewomen. As the orange and golden leaves swirled in the wind and gently fall to the manicured lawn, it felt like glowing approval from the clouds above for their service and love of community.

It is understandable why the men and women, and sometimes their families, who fight for our country, communities, and neighborhoods, get honored in a special way like the formal public funeral for Lieutenant Hoosock. May he rest in peace and may God watch over all our servicemen and servicewomen.