A/N not mine, I own nothing but the plot.
Greater Love
She wasn't sure what to expect when he asked her to come along. This was the first time he had invited to join him on this trip. One that he made every year.
She looked over at him as she handed him her id to show the guard along with his credentials. The barrier was quickly lifted and he was given a salute when they drove through.
There were many things that surprised her about him. She had never seen him in his dress uniform before, she never realized that he had even been in the military. He had been her hero since she was born, but only now learned how much of a hero he truly was.
Today he was taking a shift at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They may never know what name belongs to the remains resting there, but they are always guarded. No matter the weather, the extreme climates, or the state of the nation those remains are watched over.
Normally a soldier must be active duty and volunteer for two years duty with 12 hour shifts. They don't get a day off, and it doesn't matter what is going on around them. The moment they begin to pace that red carpet, they have one job; protect and honor those that have given their lives for their fellow man.
In honor of them, he has served this position through a special request that he made. He does this walk one day a year, Memorial Day. He says that it is his way to honor those who've fought next to him, but never came home.
He was no longer a young man, and she knew that it is becoming physically grueling for him to do this year by year. Yet, he keeps doing it. Something felt different, especially when he asked her to join him.
She realized how baggy his uniform had become, how hunched his back now is, and how unsteady his gait. He seems to have aged overnight, it's like she blinked and his hair was now white.
She sat nearby and watched the changing of the guard. The younger man had tears in his eyes as he saluted the incoming soldier. Then he did something no one expected, and walked side by side with the elderly man.
She watched as people came and left, paying their respects; some even being disrespectful. It was a shame how this country treated those who served. She watched as he grew tired and nearly fell. The younger soldier wrapped an arm around him and whispered something.
Twelve hours after the first change, the second change, signifying the end of his duty began.
She ran up to him and helped him to the golf cart that was waiting to take them back to her car. They hadn't spoken all day until that moment.
"Why, Daddy?" She quietly inquired.
"Greater Love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." He whispered softly.
That simple Bible quote now made sense.