Q. Madp of IraqWarHeroes.org has spent the last several years of his life as a volunteer photographer at the funerals of our war dead.
(WILSONVILLE. Ore.) - Wreaths Across America is a national program that remembers and honors veterans who served during the holidays. Organizers say the event takes the opportunity to remember the fallen; honor those who serve; and teach children the value of freedom.
This year's event took place in several locations in Oregon, and the images featured here were recorded by Q. Madp at the service that took place at the Willamette National Cemetery, the home of the Oregon Korean Veterans Memorial.
Q. Madp of IraqWarHeroes.org has been active over the last several years as a volunteer photographer at the funerals of our fallen soldiers, Marines, sailors and airmen.
He travels extensively throughout the northwest and beyond and refuses to accept any compensation from the families. He provides the photographs at no charge and only releases copies to the media if the family specifically allows it.
Fortunately some families are willing to share those extremely private moments and from time to time, and images of these solemn events are seen here at Salem-News.com. In fact, I met Q. Madp in Hood River while covering the service for the first Oregon Navy SEAL killed in Iraq.
Since that time Q. has been actively involved in covering the Afghan/Iraq Freedom Memorial in Salem, and he has traveled to dozens and dozens of other funeral and memorial services. I know of no other single person who dedicates their life more completely to honoring our fallen than Q. Madp.
Q. Madp of IraqWarHeroes.orgEvents like this at the Willamette National Cemetery are open to the public and examples of the type of work that Q. can share. He says he hopes that people can be inspired by images like these, and that they too can become actively involved in honoring our nation's fallen heroes by attending services and remembering that the sacrifice of these members of our military and their families are permanent.
In these images we see many reflections of today's active war veterans and their supporters. Leather clad motorcycle riders stand with aging World War Two veterans and together Q Madp says they state an unmistakable message.
Please visit IraqWarHeroes.org and remember that Q. does what nobody else in this nation is doing, and he can use constant support for covering the cost of driving to funerals.
Here are Q. Madp's photos from the event December 15th in a video presentation courtesy of YouTube
Video
Wreaths Across America Honors Oregon Veterans (VIDEO)Salem-News.com