The Homecoming
Date: June 23, 2009

Sgt. Jeffrey Jordan was just another soldier when he left home in early April–one of many local men whose enlistment in the armed services had led them to battle fronts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

When a roadside bomb took his life and the lives of three others just two months later, Sgt. Jordan returned home to a hero’s welcome. His flag-draped coffin was escorted by a military procession that seemed to stretch for miles as the hearse made its way from Richard B. Russell Airport to the funeral home where his family would greet not only friends, but the anonymous many who felt a need to pay their respects to the fallen solider.

All along the way Floyd County citizens stood in reverential silence to honor Sgt. Jordan, his family and his service. But, as the procession turned onto Turner McCall Boulevard even his family was surprised to see the throng of Floyd employees who had gathered four-deep to pay tribute.

The gathering began with an email from our president and CEO, encouraging those employees who could to step away from their work stations to do so. Around 11 a.m. a trickle of employees quickly became a quiet, but steady stream. Rehabilitation Services wheeled patients to the sidewalk. Administrators stood alongside front-line personnel, all patiently waiting in the scorching heat for the procession to make the turn.

When the first American flag appeared on Turner McCall Boulevard, an amazing hush settled over the crowd. Tears streamed down faces. Hands reflexively covered hearts.

I stood there with my co-workers, moved to tears by their reverence, respect, patriotism and compassion. It was a selfless demonstration of care that goes well beyond expectations.

Sgt. Jordan’s grandmother noticed.

She said it appeared as though every Floyd employee was standing on that sidewalk.

Sgt. Jordan’s grandfather noticed too, and he asked me to thank you on his behalf.

“Floyd County did right by that boy,” he said the following Sunday morning.

I have never been more proud, knowing that although caring for our patients is paramount, it’s also important to extend that care beyond our walls.
In standing to honor the sacrifice of Sgt. Jeffrey Jordan, our organization reiterated that we are a community hospital, that we hurt when our friends and neighbors hurt and that we truly care.

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