When a soldier dies, fellow members of the military, active or retired, will give their fallen brother or sister a fitting farewell. Espirririon “SP” Santa Cruz continued that tradition recently.
Last week, Santa Cruz saluted a fellow member of the military that had passed away.
“It was beautiful to see,” said John Gipson, a friend of Santa Cruz.
According to Gipson, he was informed that a veteran who had served during the Korean War had passed away, and the funeral director wanted the soldier to be saluted prior to the funeral.
“(Santa Cruz) was more than happy to help,” Gipson said.
Santa Cruz, who also served in the Korean War, did not know the soldier, but was willing to salute him prior to his funeral.
The soldier’s casket was brought to Santa Cruz’s home, and Santa Cruz came out to salute. Next door, Tommy Talley Roofing employees were working on a house. When they saw Santa Cruz come out, they stopped working, removed their hats and put their hands on their hearts until after the salute and the hearse left the neighborhood.
“I appreciate them stopping while (Santa Cruz) saluted,” Gipson said.
