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A photograph taken by “chance” or a grace note added to a good man’s life?

Whatever the case may be this amazing photo captured at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota captures the true essence of American patriotism.

Amateur photographer, Frank Glick captured this stunning picture of a bald eagle, and wondered whether a relative of the soldier might want a copy. The tail of the eagle partially covered the man’s name, but Paul did some research and looked up the soldier’s name in newspaper obituaries. The eagle had landed on the grave of Sgt. Maurice Ruch, who had been a member of the St. Anthony Kiwanis Club, the obituary said. Paul called the club, and it put him in touch with Jack Kiefner, Ruch’s best friend.

When Glick took his photo, he never could have guessed how much it was going to mean to Kiefner and Ruch’s widow, Vivian.

“I’d say the eagle had a very good eye when he landed on Maurie, and he was respected. I miss him, said Vivian as she picked up the photo. He was a good man and a good provider. The eagle couldn’t have picked a better person, yes, it’s been wonderful.”

Maurie his nickname, graduated from college in mechanical engineering in December of 1941 and enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Known for his keen eye, he became a rifle marksman and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands. He served four years in the military and earned a bronze star.

Maurie died from a form of Parkinson’s in 2008 at age 86.

[Cheers startribune.com]