Last night I was downloading a song on iTunes from the soundtrack Taking Chance. I watched the movie a few months ago. Listening to the music reminded me of how deeply this film touched me.

The film is based on the real-life events of a Lt. Colonel (Michael R. Stroblin) in the United States Marines who volunteers to escort the body of a young, fallen Marine (PFC Chance Phelps) back to his hometown for burial.

And he had no idea of the journey it would be.

Early on, the Lt. Colonel discovers that fallen Marines are prepared for burial with the utmost care and attention. Their bodies are carefully cleaned while their personal effects are cleared of all blood and dirt. Seamstresses prep the burial dress blues with attention to every detail, even for a closed casket ceremony. The body travels feet first when being transported and is never left unattended. Military personnel are careful to salute the body at every single transfer point.

What seemed to stun the Lt. Colonel the most was the reaction he encountered from grateful citizens along the way. From the airport crews who paused to pay their respects to all the drivers of the vehicles who spontaneously followed the hearse (with lights on) as it made a final five-hour drive through the mountains of Montana and Wyoming, he was met with honor, compassion, and respect.

There are no combat scenes or exploding bombs. And there is little dialogue compared to most films. Yet quietly and powerfully, it upholds the dignity and honor of those who die on the battlefield and shows the grateful side of people who bear the image of God.

No matter what a person believes about war, this movie is worth watching.