When did the tradition begin?

Slow_Hand

January 01, 2007 07:12

On the front page of this morning's Arizona Republic (1/1/07) there is a very poignant picture of a U.S. marine, kneeling in grief, in front of a rock ledge on top of which a large number of combat boots are neatly placed. The caption of course refers to his brothers-in-arms who have paid the ultimate price. God bless them and their loved ones.

I've seen similar footage and pictures throughout the Iraq War. My question is how old a tradition or custom is the lining up of the boots of fallen soldiers? Is it only with Marines or do other branches have a similar or identical tradition? Are their rifles and helmets also a part of this reverent acknowledgement?

I never had the honor or privilege to serve in the U.S. military and so I'm curious as to its origins.

God bless America. Happy New Year.

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  zipperzap

  January 01, 2007 07:48

  The tradition may come from one of the older traditions in a full-honors funeral which is the riderless horse. The horse is led behind the caisson, wearing an empty saddle with the rider's boots reversed in the stirrups. That indicates the warrior will never ride again, and also betokens the commander's parting look on his troops, who march behind.
  
  It may also indicate that the fallen soldier is now in 'The Realm of Shadows' and cannot ever be killed again.
  
  Beyond that ... I do not know.

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  yawarakai

  January 01, 2007 08:06

  Doesn't it have something to do with old west and boot hill?

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  likemhot

  January 01, 2007 08:11

  We do the same thing in the Fire Service for our fallen brothers, either in the line of duty or retired. As the hearse passes the station house, his full set of turnout gear will be neatly folded and along with his boots and helmet they will be turned backwards next to one of our rigs. If he was an officer, they will be placed by the officers seat, an engineer/driver by that seat or a fireman in that position. All personnel on duty that day will stand at attention in front of the station. They will be dressed in full turnout gear and stand at attention until the hearse and family have passed, then at parade rest until the procession passes. At the request of the family there may be two trucks positioned at the entrance of the cemetery with their ladders fully extended and crossed.

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