Honoring the Fallen

After "Taps" sounded, the flag was folded. The honor guard stood facing the flag recipient, Kate Apple, holding the folded flag waist-high with the straight edge facing her. He knelt on one knee in front of Kate and solemnly presented the flag to her, saying: "Ma'm, this flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation and the President of the United States as an expression of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service rendered by your loved one [Staff Sergeant Edward J. Kiersten]."