Ch 11-12 Dead Men

11.

"They almost consumed the truth."

[pg.152]

This quote is important because it symbolizes what Maples does in all his cases he discovers the truth behind what happens even when the truth is hidden as it was in the Meek-Jennings case.

"As a forensic anthropologist, my work is necessarily focused on the dead more than on the living."

[pg.160]

This quote reflects simply what Maples has to do as a forensic anthropologist his main concern is with the dead but in some cases he had to focus on things prior to death.

"Until now life had smiled on Page Jennings."

[pg.164]

This quote stood out to me because it proves how quickly things can change and how hard it is to forget because Jennings had such a harsh ending even though her life had been good.

"[Chris] was trying to help his sister get her life straightened out. but Meek wouldn't let go.."

[pg.166]

This quote is important pertaining to the overall book because even if it was focused a specific case because in many of the cases the victim was tried to help but couldn't be saved as did Jennings.

"It is a remembrance I appreciate." 

[pg.186]

Maples in a way gets attached to his cases and it is proved by the gestures of the family and how close he gets to them, I understand it he puts himself in the place of the murderer and victim.   

 12.

"The question of American soldiers missing in action in Vietnam is an open, bleeding wound in American politics even today"

[pg.187]

The first sentence of the chapter gives an introduction to the whole chapter and the overall theme of the soldiers who were lost in battle.

"Twice a year I visit the laboratory in Hawaii where recommendations for identifications are made and cases are resolved"

[pgs.188-189]

I think this quote was meant to prove to everyone that the bodies of those brave soldiers are not forgotten and the best forensic anthropologist are working to make sure they are identified and to inform their loved ones what happened to them.

"The Asiatic bones...are sent back to Vietnam, although the authorities there are often unwilling to take them back."

[pg.191]

I think this quote is very sad because it shows the cruelty of the world, how their own people can turn their back on their own people and just abandon them here without giving an explanation to the families of the diseased.

"In most cases the dentist has a great advantage."

[pg.192]

Even though both the forensic anthropologist and the dentist investigate the cases the dentist have the advantage of dental records that help them identify the corpse but anthropologist know the experience to identify the victims life details through their bones.

"For me, as most visitors, the wall is a deeply moving experience."

[pg.206]

I think Maples feels very strongly about his work with the soldiers that lost their life fighting for their country and he spends a lot of time not only identifying the bodies but he also goes to honor them when they are buried.