When someone dedicates their entire life to helping others, the least we can do is fulfill their final request. One man led a life of service to others, and in the end, his only request was a proper military send-off.
U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Sidney Shearing knew his calling from a young age. He didn’t take any time figuring out what his future would hold – he joined the army right after graduating from high school. He served for 20 years, and those adventures would create several lifetimes’ worth of stories.
The man served his country from locations all over the world, including Germany and Hawaii. He completed two tours in Vietnam and two combat tours in the Dominican Republic. By any standard, Shearing accomplished great things during his time in the service.
The man earned several awards throughout his military career. In particular, he received the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation, along with many other honors.
After 20 years Shearing retired from the military, but his service to others wasn’t over. Upon his return to civilian life, he worked as a cardiovascular technician. He enjoyed this job for 20 years after his retirement, before his time finally came to a close.
In his older age, Shearing’s health began to fail. After many visits to the hospital, the veteran realized that his last hour was near. Planning ahead, he requested that his name be called at the time of his final breath for a military “send-off from Saint Francis.”
Shearing’s nurse, Sergio, was happy to fulfill this man’s last wish. Since the nurse was a sergeant, he was able to complete the task himself, with the help of Shearing’s family.
Sidney Shearing passed away on March 25, 2018. He was 72 years old, and he was deeply loved by his friends and family. As the man took his last breath, Sergio laid an American flag over his body.
Jeanne, the sister of the deceased, recorded his moment of passing as well as his final goodbye. In one heartbreaking moment, her brother had entered his final resting place.
Sergio called out his own name and the name of Shearing’s brother, Officer Day. The two replied, “present,” then Sergio called out Shearing’s name three times.
No answer came, and Jeanne’s heart was in pieces. She openly grieved over the loss of her brother while the two former sergeants gave him one final salute. As they lowered their hands, music began to play.
The men selected the tune “Taps” to honor Shearing’s passing. He had touched so many lives and made the world so much better before his time ran out. His story reminds us that we are meant to have an impact on the world during our time here.
As the music played on, all three mourners remained in the hospital room. They silently recalled their own memories with the deceased, perhaps imagining that they might join him again one day.
A man who has given so much for his country and for his fellow citizens deserves respect during his final moments. Shearing’s last request was a humble one, and his friends carried out the task in a way that deeply honored his life.
While we mourn the loss of this noble soul, we must also feel gratitude for all the people he helped. This man may not be around anymore, but his legacy will always remain.
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Source: Liftable
