Thanks and Goodbye

In the air there was a feeling of loss and pain as the procession somberly made its way to the gateroom with the casket.

It felt as if the city itself was crying. As the casket was laid on the stands in front of the Stargate, Richard Woolsey's voice could be heard:

"We are here today to commimmerate the life of an unselfish man who would go out of his way to help others. As you all know, he would make it his priority to learn everyone's name and a little about each in order to help them feel more comfortable here in Atlantis. He would want us not to dwell on his death, but to remember his life, who and what he was. A caring father, a loving husband, a charismatic leader, a friend, a soldier."

Everyone in attendance could be seen remembering this man as they knew him, knowing smiles could be seen throughout the congregation. Jennifer and Rodney McKay were holding hands for mutual support. Ronon and Amelia Dex were standing just behind Teyla, in loving support. Teyla Sheppard was holding a sleeping two year old Elizabeth while Torren stood stoically next to his mother in front of Ronon. Tears could be seen flowing from Teyla's eyes as Woolsey continued.

"This is a poem Teyla found in with Colonel Sheppard's possessions. It seems a fitting description to the reason we are all gathered here today."

As Woolsey began to read the poem, taps began to play quietly in the background.

"Thanks, for the Lonely Soldier

Thanks for giving your time And sometimes your life.

Thanks for making the sacrifice nobody else wants.

Thanks, for missing the birth of a child, or the funeral of a loved one"

Woolsey took a moment to look out across the control room floor. There were people starting to cry. Ronon was standing with his eyes closed and his head bowed. Amelia had tears flowing, but didn't move. Rodney had his arm around Jennifer, who was freely weaping. As he started back up, Torren starting crying and Ronon picked him up.

"Thanks, for missing birthdays, holiday, and special occasions.

Thanks, for being a mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter.

Thanks for taking the hurtful words against you."

As he began the next segment, the guards began to fold the flag.

"Thanks, for doing what needs to be done anyway.

Thanks, for being overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated.

Thanks, for not complaining or refusing to go where you're sent."

The honor guard brought the folded flag to Teyla and crisply saluted as she took it with her free hand.

"Thanks, for weathering the tropics, desserts, and wastelands.

Thanks, for paying the price that comes with your profession.

Thanks, for facing your fears and following your training"

The honor guard proceeded to pick up the casket and walk it towards the already open Stargate. And as the casket made its way through the Stargate, Woolsey finished before it shutdown.

"Thanks, for paying the price for the choice that you made

Thanks, for being the lonely soldier"