funerals are never easy.

my first one ( that I performed at) was my mothers.
just after I gave an eulogy, I immedeately walked outside where my friend was holding my pipes. and we played " on the turning away" by pink floyd.... one of my mom's favorite tunes because of the harmonies we used in it.

after the service was over the funeral director came over and asked if I'd be able to play another funeral the next week. and the rest is history.

I havent had the honor of playing for a current armed forces member ( if thats the correct way to put it) but I have played for quite a few members that served during WWII and Korea. AG x3 with a fade out on the 3rd time is an awesome way to play it.
it never fails to get a positive response.
I usually will play "going home" on the way to the graveside, and have been asked to play "danny boy" a few times instead of AG.

the next peformance I have is Sept. 11 at a service that my Fire Dept., and the Police Dept. Honor Guards are attending. there is one piper in the PD and myself playing.

and I agree with you ...if I stop feeling a pang of sorrow then its time to stop playing funerals...
KFP