A hero has passed...

[DeSwiss]

41. It is my understanding in the Navajo traditions.....

...that a warrior who leaves the protection of the four sacred mountains must have the Blessing Way Ceremony and this song is played and sung by the Hatałii (Medicine Man) and the family members the clan has chosen to do the blessing.

- He's had this ceremony once I assume, when he left in WWII. And now he leaves again for the final time in this world.....

Protection ceremonies, especially the Blessing Way Ceremony, are used for Navajo who leave the boundaries of the four sacred mountains. It is used extensively for Navajo warriors or soldiers going to war. Upon return, the person receives an Enemy Way Ceremony, or Nidáá', to get rid of the evil elements in the body, and to restore balance in his or her life. This is important for Navajo warriors or soldiers returning from battle. Warriors or soldiers often suffer spiritual or psychological damage from participating in warfare, and the Enemy Way Ceremony helps restore harmony to the person, mentally and emotionally. link