Essay By Bob Redell

My assistant news director posed an interesting hypothetical: If you could give anyone a digital camera and have him or her take pictures, who would it be? Of course, my 7-year-old daughter came to mind, because I want to know what in the world she's doing when I'm not around. Or ... maybe I don't. But, oddly enough, the other person I thought of was the caretaker at the Golden Gate National Cemetery.

I drive up and down Interstate 280 a lot, and many times find myself gazing at the thousands and thousands of white headstones that blanket the hills just off the interstate. The cemetery reminds me a lot of Arlington and yet I've heard so little about this place. I pass by so often.

It was in the cemetery that I found Gabe Pelesasa. He's one of the lead caretakers and was more than willing to take snapshots of what his life is like there on the grounds.

I think I'd get depressed working at a cemetery all day. And Gabe admits that yes, he does sometimes. But like all the caretakers who work there, Gabe is a veteran. And as a vet, this isn't just a job. Gabe believes he's taking care of family.

Gabe got me thinking about what I've done for this country. I pay taxes and follow the law (most of the time); other than that -- not much. I don't know what to make of it. I suppose it's a shame.

WATCH VIDEO: A Day In The Life Of A Cemetery Caretaker

View Gabe Pelesasa's Photos at http://www.nbc11.com/news/10902821/detail.html