Williams explained that her initial motivation for recording the video was to share it with her children, intending to convey the harsh reality of life and the frequency of such heartbreaking events.
The video resonated deeply with viewers, who offered condolences to Tara and her family in the comments. Many praised Williams for obtaining Tara’s permission before sharing the video publicly, and several admitted to shedding tears along with Tara.
A poignant top comment read, “Her lover, her soul mate, her everything is in there. I just can’t imagine my husband in a coffin. It breaks my heart. Gosh, I’m trying to fight back tears.”
Another viewer shared their emotional response, stating, “I am also crying. Can’t imagine the love of my life gone just like that.” Some viewers reflected on the sacrifice associated with freedom, with one remarking, “Freedom isn’t free; it’s paid with the lives of brave men and women.”
Shawn’s family stood by him throughout his military journey. Tara and Shawn, along with their four children, resided at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Today, Cheyenne, Gavin, Taylor, and Natylyn, along with their mother Tara, express gratitude for the support of the military community back home.
According to Army Times, Shawn succumbed to injuries from a vehicle accident during his deployment in Niger, confirmed by a U.S. Army Special Operations Command spokesman on February 2, 2017. At the time of his passing, Shawn was 35 years old.
Shawn, a native of Woodward, Oklahoma, enlisted in the army at 18 and later joined the third Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg after completing the Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course. Over his military career, he was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan seven times, earning accolades such as two Bronze Stars, four Good Conduct Medals, and various international service decorations.
Following his death, Shawn was posthumously honored with a Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal. Described in his obituary as someone who loved his job and was anchored by faith, strong values, and family, Shawn’s passing added to the sobering statistics of active-duty military deaths.
Tragically, the video serves as a reminder of the significant number of active-duty military personnel who have lost their lives since 2006. According to the Congressional Research Service, Shawn is one of 17,645 active-duty personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces between 2006 and 2020, with accidents accounting for the majority of these casualties at 31.8%.
Videos like these prompt reflection on the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. The tearful moment when Tara approaches Shawn’s coffin can be viewed below.
