It’s part of his job, sure, but more than that, covering the annual All Veterans Reunion is an honor for FLORIDA TODAY photojournalist Tim Shortt.
His depth of caring is reflected poignantly and personally in this Photo of the Week: a shot of Bayside High NJROTC Cadet Philicia Munroe gently placing a flag during the Battlefield Cross ceremony at the 37th reunion opening on May 5.
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall and the Some Gave All tribute are included in the event, which runs through May 11 at Wickham Park.
The opening day is always a “somber and very important reminder” of the loss of lives in Vietnam, and starting in recent years, those lost on 9/11 and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are saluted as well, Shortt said.
“I’ve been covering the reunion and related traveling Vietnam Wall for most of its history at Wickham Park,” Shortt said.
“Seeing tens of thousands of names of people, most of whom were a fraction of the age I’ve had the good fortune to reach, is an emotional experience. Virtually everyone I’ve ever met here is kind to me and each other.”
And every photo Shortt leaves the grounds with, year after year, is a respectful salute to those who’ve served and those who loved them.
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: A cadet’s respect for veterans and families who served and sacrificed: Photo of the Week
Reporting by Britt Kennerly, Florida Today / Florida Today
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
