CORRECTION: This story has been changed to reflect the correct address for the All Vets Center in Mason City. It is not easily put into words how the service of David Gilbert -- and hundreds of other men like him across the country -- makes folks feel. My father died on March 2, 2004, arguably one of the worst days of my life. One of the few things that brought me solace during his funeral was the presence of the local VFW Honor Guard. Seeing those men stand for my father, looking somber and sharp in full uniform, watching them present a flag to my mother, hearing Taps played, and feeling each retort of the Volley of Three in my chest left me with the most intense feeling of pride I think I ever felt.Â