Earlier today, friends and family said goodbye to Captain Nichola Goddard. Captain Goddard was the first female combat arms soldier to die in combat.
By all accounts, Captain Goddard was a model soldier and a remarkable human being. Her commanding officer praised her skills and dedication. Her comrades in arms refered to her professionalism. Her father is quoted as saying that the country is divided into those who knew her and those who wished they had known her.
There is a temptation to say that losing such a person is too high a price to pay, but I rather suspect that Captain Goddard would disagree. The captain seemed to understand that some things are worth taking a stand for, even at the risk of one's life. Then again, it seems that all of the soldiers who have given their lives in Afghanistan probably believed the same thing.
Cynics may say that I have been duped by a pro-war propaganda campaign, but I don't think that is the case. I am thankful for the with men and women who feel that serving their country in the military is an honourable calling. This much I know is true: this year's Remembrance Day ceremonies will be emotional in a way that we have not seen for many, many years.
