They've gone great distances, gone to great lengths, taken great risks, and some have paid the ultimate sacrifice. At times, they must be distanced from those they protect. At times, their own nation's people distance themselves from them. And unquestionably, manhood is forged from innocence and childhood.

I was taken by the cold, somber expression during this folding of a flag which draped the coffin of one who has traveled the ultimate distance.