[UPDATE] Me [19 M]. My grandfather [84 M] has passed away and asked me to play Taps at his funeral.

A young Redditor shared an emotional journey of fulfilling his late grandfather’s final wish: playing Taps on the trumpet at his funeral. Despite initial fears and doubts about his ability to perform under such emotional pressure, he decided to honor his grandfather’s request. Here’s how it turned out. Read the update below.

For those who want to read the previous part: https://aita.pics/nhpXG

‘ [UPDATE] Me [19 M]. My grandfather [84 M] has passed away and asked me to play Taps at his funeral.?’

I got to the grave site before the funeral procession so that I could go over the event proceedings with the conducting officials. They were very nice and understanding of me wanting to play. They told me what my cue would be to begin playing,

I took my place about 10 feet behind the grave (everyone would be gathered in front of the grave), and waited for the procession to arrive. I was very nervous, but I knew that I wanted to follow through with this no matter how it went.

Once everyone was there and the casket was set in place, a pastor stood before the crowd and offered some final words while the two air force representatives stood on either side of the casket. After the pastor was done speaking, the representatives saluted and I knew it was time to begin.

I took a deep breath, brought my horn up to my lips, closed my eyes and began to play, starting on a D, as some people suggested (it is a lower note, and is easier to play, and no one knows the difference).

Well reddit, it was perfect. I couldn’t be more happy that I was able to honor my grandfather as he asked me to before his passing.
I just wanted to thank everyone for the kind words and suggestions. They were a great encouragement and I don’t know if I would have ended up doing it if it wasn’t for everyone here.

Here’s the input from the Reddit crowd:

[Reddit User] −  I’m not crying, you’re crying.

iammrsbug −  Way to make your Grandpa proud, OP. That’s awesome.

Mr-Krinkles −  He gave you two last lessons that a soldier would want to teach. To be brave, and never doubt yourself.

DiTrastevere −  This story touched me. You really stepped up. Your grandfather would be so proud. Well done, OP.

Earguy −  I wish I had seen your original post; I would have offered words of encouragement. My son (now 25) played trumpet in high school and college, but three years ago he stopped playing and started pursing his career.

When his grandfather was diagnosed with terminal cancer, he asked my son to play taps. Son was nervous about it, but neer thought about backing out. He practiced for a week in advance.

The day of the funeral, as the sailors presented a flag to his widow in appreciation from a grateful nation, Dan stood and delivered. The sailors told him how well he played. I’m sorry for your loss, as now I’m feeling mine again. What an honor you had to be a part of his sendoff.

discodemonica −  Bravo 🙂

crimsonarm −  Fellow trumpet player here. Lost my dad recently. I’m here in tears man. Good on you, OP. Very happy to see this update.

Hooty__McBoob −  Good for you OP! I knew you could do it!!!

BobRawrley −  Your grandfather would be very proud of you.

Keica −  I’m sorry for your loss, but I’m happy to hear that you played, and I’m sure your Grandfather was too.

This story beautifully illustrates how courage and love can overcome fear, creating a moment of lasting significance. What are your thoughts on fulfilling such deeply personal promises? Have you ever faced a similar situation? Share your experiences and reflections below!