Tribute - Valor American Home

Tribute

noun: tribute; plural noun: tributes

1. An act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration.

The coronavirus (Covid 19) has brought many devastating changes to life as we knew it. Perhaps, if anything “good” can be said, it is the awareness of honorable deeds throughout communities. Brave souls across many occupations have provided us with a better life.

The medical industry has stepped to the forefront in assisting mankind. Countless hours of painful dedication have made life for many individuals even possible. It is to this group of individuals (doctors, nurses and other staff) that we, as a nation, owe thanks and respect.

There have been many tributes throughout the country as an expression of gratitude to these professionals. In New York City, there is a show of support every day at 7:00 PM. Crowds gather outside hospitals to applaud as employees' shifts change. Elsewhere, parades of cars and banners declaring appreciation are raised.

In the town I reside, the neighborhood surrounding the hospital has signs displayed on the lawns thanking the “Heroes of Covid 19”. I believe it is one way that we are able to express our hearts and acknowledge others during these trying times.

This evening, another tribute of honor was implemented.

The local TV station, along with the North Carolina Healthcare Association, sponsored a flyover of the Bandit Flight Team. This 19-member team of pilots perform 40-50 events per year. They are well-known for their patriotic performances during National Anthems.

I wasn’t going to miss this!

A schedule had been published for this "Frontline Flyover". The Bandit Flight Team was to flyover 6 area hospitals within a matter of 19 minutes. I knew that I had to be ready; and thus, I was. Parking my car on a hillside, I was soon joined by others. Everyone was gripping their cellphones for that moment of awe. You could even see the hospital’s helicopter crew positioned upon the rooftop ready to snap their lens.

And there it was….The team of 5 planes in a delta formation. No loud roar of jet engines, as these were sporting aircraft. ---Instead, it was quite silent.

For a split second, everything was in slow motion. The crowd moved in near-choreographed motion, following the planes overhead. With a release of smoke, they saluted all the workers who had assembled below. There was emotion in this trailing cloud. It seemed to say, “Thank you for all that you do and pray for better days.” The crowd was quiet.--- No loud cheering.--- A somberness seemed to prevail.

And just like that: The planes were gone. The smoke dissipated. The crowd disappeared.

I returned to my car and thought how fortunate I have been to escape the need of medical services. I pray that I will continue to elude this virus and for God’s hand to be upon those who are not as fortunate.

This was A Moment in America.

3 Comments

Jun 1, 2020, 9:08:43 AM

Austin Rese - Thank you, Robin!

May 31, 2020, 4:34:34 PM

Robin Tice-Haines - Beautifully written! Thanks for sharing!

May 31, 2020, 3:34:35 PM

Robin Tice-Haines - Beautifully written! Thanks for sharing!

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