Disclaimer: Don't own anything, yada, yada, yada...

A/N: This is a short ficlet that came to me yesterday while watching President Ford's funeral.

Farewell to a True Hero

He had meant to spend New Year's in Colorado Springs, but things had changed. Now New Year's Day found him standing at attention, saluting a casket. Colonels Carter and Mitchell stood on either side of him in poses identical to his. A few yards behind, the rest of SG1 stood in solemn silence watching their friends.

"I don't understand Daniel." Vala whispered, for even she knew a solemn scene when she saw one.

"They are saying farewell to a great leader Vala Mal Doran." Teal'c responded.

"A leader?"

"Yes Vala. Gerald Ford was one of this country's greatest presidents. He lead our country during a time of crisis, a time when most people were fed up with our government." Daniel replied.

The three non-military members of SG1 lapsed back into silence as they continued to watch their friends giving their last respects to President Ford in the capital rotunda.

Knowing that Jack wanted a moment alone, Sam lowered her salute and turned to leave. Having been forewarned, Cam also lowered his salute and turned to leave when he noticed Sam doing so. Quietly and somberly they joined the others and watched as Jack carried on his silent vigil.

Jack remained at attention as he silently remembered President Ford. It had been during Ford's presidency that Jack had first entered Black Ops. It had been Ford who had given him his first medal for a mission that no one could speak of. But most importantly, it was Ford who had inspired Jack to be a better man.

"It was an honor serving under your command Mr. President." Jack finally said as he lowered his salute. Silently, he turned and moved to where the others stood. Solemnly, the six friends left the rotunda.

As they walked away, Sam wrapped her arm around her husband's waist and squeezed gently, sharing the moment with him. Jack smiled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

"President Ford inspired a lot of people." Sam quietly commented.

"Yes." Jack responded. Stopping, the two turned round. "Today we saw farewell to a true hero."