Today I was given the honor of photographing the funeral of retired Army, Lt. Col. Donald Laffoon, at his son Donald Jr.’s request. I found it a very humbling experience.
I first photographed and met Army, Lt. Col. Laffoon in August of 2013 at his home in Madisonville, Ky, while working on a series of portraits I’ve been doing on veterans from Hopkins County.
He entered service at the age of 18 in December of 1943 and served until August 1971, 28 years later. He saw combat during World War II, Korea and Vietnam. During World War II he served in Germany and during his first tour in combat as a corporal he was the point man that led a patrol all the way to the Eagles Nest, Hitler’s home in 1945. He was truly a member of “The Greatest Generation.”
Among his many military honors are the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart Meritorious Service Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Korean Service Medal with five Campaign Stars, and the Vietnam Service Medal with three Campaign Stars.
He fought and served his country, not for fame or recognition, but because he felt it was the right thing to do. What better legacy could a father leave for his sons. The world is a better place because he was in it.
Photo was taken with the iPhone 5s and post processed using Photoshop CS6.