Alaska Airlines Flight 261 - The ways in which we are reminded of reality are often shocking in the very least. A few days ago when the news of Flight #261 came across the airways, it stopped many people in their tracks. The news alone was shocking enough, but coupled with an immediate inventory of all your friends and family, adds a high level of anxiety. Many of us grieve now for the loss of an individual or individuals that were part of the 88 who died, but all of us grieve for the lives lost, the families shattered, and those who must begin again creating a new life without that special someone. Today, we are here to observe the loss, recognize the pain, bring closure to another terrible reality in our lives and start the healing process that takes months, years and often a lifetime. Each person that is reading this will grieve in their own way. I hope each one will receive the strength to walk through this time and find a peace that will bring you acceptance without bitterness.

As Taps was played at the Memorial, we look to understand:

The Story of Taps

The 24-note melancholy bugle call known as "taps" is thought to be a revision of a French bugle signal. Taps now is to signal the "lights out" command at a day's end. This will end without the physical presence of those who lost their lives on Flight 261, but their memories will live forever in the hearts of those who loved them.