Moving and Powerful Image

Slain Navy SEAL Jon Tumilson's dog "Hawkeye" lies next to his casket during funeral services in Rockford, Iowa. Tumilson was one of 30 American soldiers killed in Afghanistan on August 6 when their helicopter was shot down during a mission to help fellow troops who had come under fire.

I will just admit right now -- I am an animal lover. More specifically, a dog lover. When I see this picture, it really moves me to see how much love this dog has for his owner. The person dead is former US Navy Seal Jon Tumilson. I actually watched a video on Yahoo, when this first hit the internet. For the whole ceremony, the dog laid by his owner's casket the whole time. I like this because, it's almost unexpected. At funerals, people always forget about who that person lived with, who stood by his side, and who would always be there for a little smile. For me, this is a very unusual picture at first, mostly because I've never even seen a dog at a ceremony like this, but also because of the way the dog is laying. His position is very close to the casket, and he's laying there, almost like he's mourning. I love this because also because it shows so much about this dog's loyalty and love for his owner. Although it is a very sad picture, my eye is drawn straight towards "Hawkeye" and then to the American flag. I think this is powerful because it is American, and many people can relate to this image; a proud citizen, losing his life to serve our country. We see this every week and maybe every day on the news, it's something that happens to us daily, but for why this is such an important image, does not have me questioning. I also like how the light is shining on the casket, but barely reaching the tip of Hawkeye's nose. When I see this, I think of light as hope and spirit. I believe that this could represent the spirit and hope that will stay with Hawkeye even while his owner is gone.