AN UNEXPECTED WALTER REED CHRISTMAS

AN UNEXPECTED WALTER REED CHRISTMAS

We all know how hectic and stressful the holiday season is under normal conditions.  Imagine getting a phone call that your husband has been injured in Afghanistan!   Imagine knowing he will be operated on in Germany and then transported to Walter Reed while you and your two children are in California and need to come to Maryland quickly!!!  Then imagine all this just days before Christmas!!

Two weeks ago on December 15th I got a message from a friend Diana Mankin, a Marine mom herself, who posts on a military forum where she learned of this wounded Marine,  SSgt Jarrod Wayman and that he and his family  would all be arriving  here at Walter Reed the next day, Monday the 16th.   She asked if I could reach out to them when they arrived, to let them know that there is someone here who would personally be there for them any way possible.   So......what takes place over the next few days is nothing short of many God moments where He opens one door after another.

My contact would be the injured Marines's sister in law, Lindsey who lives in Texas with her husband and three children.  As soon as we established contact I asked for the names of Jarrod's wife and children.   Hillary is his wife and they have two small children, 3 year old Bailey and her 6 year old brother Gavin.  They would be needing to celebrate Christmas far from home so  I asked Lindsey for a list of the presents the kids hoped Santa would bring.   Considering there was precious little time, I reached out to a special friend, Jodi Warshall, who is an angel here on planet earth and who can move mountains at a moments notice.  She posted a list of those presents on a forum, a registry of sorts, where others who support our military families can select items,  purchase them and ship them to Jodi.  

I had the opportunity to visit Jarrod, Hillary and the kids for a short time before Jarrod was scheduled for another surgery.  Jodi gave me decorations for a tree that was supplied and was adorning their room at the lodge where they are staying on base.   It was truly an honor to meet all of them.   We had a short visit and I now had faces to go along with the names. 

Knowing that Jodi had that project under control, I got back to Lindsey to tell her about Luke's Wings, the organization I have mentioned in previous articles that unites families and friends of wounded warriors.  They provides airfare at no charge to and from military hospitals all year, but the holiday time is where they really shine....with their slogan "No Soldier Spends the Holiday Alone".  I made sure  Lindsey and her family, as well as her other sister's family knew they could rely on Luke's Wings to get them here to visit during the holidays.   That meant my good friend Jennifer Magerer with Luke's Wings would be arranging their flights.  

With that under control, it was time to get back to the Christmas presents which were purchased by some incredibly generous Americans all over the country.....and let me tell you that is an understatement.   The gifts ranged from $20-$60 and every single item on a list of 20 items was purchased.   By now it is the day before Christmas and all is well.   The morning of the 24th Jodie arrived at my home where we spent a couple of hours wrapping all the gifts for Bailey and Gavin.  We had everything spread out all over the floor and had a ball.   Filled with the Christmas spirit we finished and loaded up her car (which was already overflowing with gifts for other families) and off she went to deliver them to the many families at Walter Reed.

Christmas morning Jodi and I were anxious to hear how the kids liked their presents while we awaited photos to appear on Facebook of them opening their gifts.   Well, as mom Hillary posted, with each new gift they shouted "This is the BEST Christmas EVER!!"   You can bet that made our day!!!   Mission accomplished!!!!   You would almost forget that they were not at home in California because their Christmas was about as normal as it could be, all things considered. 

The Christmas holiday closed with our annual Marine Corps League Christmas dinner for the inpatients and their families.   It is a catered dinner but I invited friends to volunteer to share our time with those who could not leave the hospital for the holiday.   The Waymans came to enjoy the festivities and Santa was there too.   A few more presents from Santa and then Christmas was over for another year.  

When I look back at what appeared to be almost insurmountable tasks to complete in ten days I reflect once again on the fact that when God is on control we should never doubt.   Everything fell in to place exactly as it should, and the smiles and the laughter of the children were the proof.   To all who are reading this article, I wish you a year filled with blessings, kindness, generosity and peace and love for one another.  

MY NEW NEIGHBORS

MY NEW NEIGHBORS

If you have ever lived in an apartment building or multi-family dwelling you will appreciate what I am going to share with you.    I live in a 17-story condominium where many owners sublet their apartments.   I have lived here since 1980 as a renter until I purchased my unit in 2000.   Living here so long you can imagine I have had a variety of neighbors on all four sides, as well as across the hall.   I don't know how other buildings are constructed but this building was built in the mid 60's and  sound carries easily through walls, floors and hallways.  

Several weeks ago the couple who was renting the apartment across the hall moved out.   They told me the owners, a young couple from Bulgaria, wanted to rent it to a friend who just returned from their homeland and was in dire need of a place to live.    Nothing unusual there!!!   The following weekend all hell broke loose.  The sounds of young children screaming, yelling, arguing and running all over the apartment was impossible to ignore.   It was so loud that it sounded as if they were living in my apartment!!   What to do?    I tried to ignore it for three days until I called the front desk  to report the disturbance.   It was so unsettling that I could not think, eat, watch television or read, and more importantly I could not read Scripture.    Finally I called the resident manager in tears explaining that she needed to understand and to hear what I was hearing.  From my front door I held up the phone for a couple of minutes and she listened....and her response was just what I expected.  She was aghast at the decibel of the noise and promised to speak to the new resident.   She did but with little change in the intensity of the noise.

After a week I was so distraught  I decided I would speak to my neighbors myself.    I knocked on their door and a nanny answered...with two adorable little boys behind her.  They were five and seven years old.  Only the seven year old spoke English.   We introduced ourselves.....He is Alex, his little brother Jordan.......I asked him if they knew how to speak quietly and keep their voices down, as their loudness was not good for my health, explaining that I was getting headaches from their constant noise.   They were so apologetic and so cute.....and as we were talking their Mom came down the hall, arriving home from work.    I explained to her what the problem was and that I truly hoped we could find a way to live compatibly.   She admitted that with two little boys it was not easy to calm them down but she would do her best, though it might take time.   We hugged, kissed and shook hands...little Alex extending his hand for me to shake.   I could feel the Lord working in this situation and felt that there would be an improvement, if not right away, in the near future. 

The next day I was at the store and decided to buy some little toys for the boys.   Their apartment was so quiet for two days I thought they were out of town.  Finally hearing their Mom come home one night I knocked and offered the toys.   She invited me in
and we sat and shared a glass of wine while the boys dressed up in their Halloween costumes to show them off.     We had a lovely hour long visit and I learned much about her circumstances.   She is a single Mom with two boys and needed a nanny so that she could work all day, and that she had registered the boys in school so they would not be home during the day.   When I heard her story and how she was struggling it truly touched my heart.   Did I tell you how cute the children are?  They are really the most adorable and well mannered boys......just rambunctious.  

The following week I came home from church where we hold a fellowship supper and bible study.   Normally I never take home any leftovers but this particular night there was a ton of chicken  left so I piled a plate to eat the next day.   As I was walking down my hallway the Lord told me to knock on their door and offer the chicken.   She invited me in, ecstatic that they would now have chicken for dinner with their potatoes!!!!!   Now I really understood their struggle!   Her circumstances are so difficult that she had to let the nanny go and bring her mother from Bulgaria to live with them.   Four people in a one bedroom apartment.    My heart is seriously moved by their situation.   Today I dropped off a basket of fruit I was given at Walter Reed last night at a Christmas party.   You would think I gave them a ten course meal!   The grandmother insisted on giving me candy in return for the fruit.

This entire chain of events has opened my eyes to how the Lord wants us to reach out to those less fortunate and to be kind to our neighbors.   I have been blessed with new friends and two little boys who have helped me to become more patient.   As a family they have made great strides in adapting to their new lifestyle.    I am so thankful that  I heard the Lord speaking to me.  So often I pray and ask Him to use me for His glory....and I wonder how many opportunities I have missed.   In this season of giving and sharing this is a reminder to all of us that even small gestures might be appreciated in a way we may never truly realize and that it might be as close as our neighbors right next door.

THE WOUNDED WARRIOR MARINE CORPS BALL NOVEMBER 2013

THE WOUNDED WARRIOR MARINE CORPS BALL  NOVEMBER 2013

An invitation to the Wounded Warrior Marine Corps Ball that was held last week had to be one of the highlights of my life!   Having been to the ball two years ago, I knew what to expect.   There is nothing like military tradition, and the Marine Corps does it best.

As you know, my life pretty much revolves around our Marines through care packages and precious time spent with some of our wounded warriors and their families at Walter Reed.   One of those families, the Burketts, you have read about in previous articles.   It was the Burketts who invited me to attend the ball with them this year, Major Burkett, his wife Melissa and their two oldest children Keenan, 10 and Josilyn 7.  

Of course the preparation starts weeks in advance, including shopping for formal attire and hair and nail appointments for the ladies.
Thankfully I did not have to shop for something to wear, as I have an outfit that has served me well over the years and since I rarely have a need for something formal I make do with what I have.  But that is not the case for the ladies of Walter Reed, the wives, mothers and girlfriends.   They do not come to the hospital prepared for such occasions.   The hard work of one woman, Jodi Bouck Warshel made the ball gown selection miraculous by locating sources that were willing to donate magnificent gowns and accessories.... and it was an enormous success.  Dozens of them....brand new with the tags still on them were sent to the hospital for a gown event for any of the women who would need them.....and they came in all sizes and colors......many of the ladies are in varying degrees of pregnancy.    They all found exactly what they needed.   What huge hearts the donors have and one store supplied the majority of the gowns!

I wanted to find a way to contribute something to the ladies for this special evening.   I was blessed to locate two hair salons in our area with hairdressers who were more than willing to donate their time to give our ladies the fancy hairdos required for a Ball.   They outdid themselves.   Thirteen ladies signed up for appointments and I knew only three of them.   However I did get to meet them on our way to the ball, and each of them looked exceptionally beautiful.   The hairdressers who volunteered to style the lady's hair were so thankful to be asked.........so willing to participate in making the night special in any way they could.    We just don't realize how many folks are out there who want to contribute and simply need to be asked!!!

The highlight of the evening was our guest of honor,   Medal of Honor recipient Sgt Dakota Meyer.  I had a brief moment to shake his had and thank him for his outstanding actions in Afghanistan, but of course he had little time to spend with any one person.   I also reunited with an old friend, LtCol Mike Corrado, singer/wongwriter of "Still in the Fight" and we had lots of news to catch up on.  For me, the most moving aspect of the evening was being surrounded by wounded warriors.   A ballroom filled with Marines in their dress uniforms, many in wheelchairs, but all of them sharing a night to remember.  For many it was their first ball and for many it would be their last as they would be discharged before the ball next year.  

The most beautiful tradition is the cutting of the elaborately decorated Marine Corps Birthday cake.   Cutting the cake with a sword,  the first piece is presented to the guest of honor,  the second piece presented to the oldest Marine present and the third to the youngest, signifying the passing on of years of experience from the eldest Marine to the youngest.   Then everyone enjoyed a piece of the birthday cake and the party began....lots of music and dancing.   Nothing can match the sight of Marines in their wheelchairs or with crutches on the dance floor with their ladies.  The determination and sheer will of a Marine will not allow them to sit on the sidelines when there is action on the dance floor.   And let me tell you, they can dance!   Not being much of a dancer myself,  I thoroughly enjoyed taking it all in, and also watching Major Burkett and Melissa dance a few slow numbers.   It truly did my heart good to be in the presence of such great Americans who would never consider missing a Ball due to their injuries.   However, there were many who could not attend because their injuries would not allow them to be with us, but the chaplain remembered them and their fallen brothers  in prayer when the ceremony began.   Of course all good things must come to an end, at by eleven it was time to head back to the hospital with many new memories etched in my heart for a lifetime.

Again, I wonder at the path my life has taken.   Each and every person, event, situation, is all mapped out by God and I am merely following His lead.   Again I look back at the last eleven years of involvement with our Marine Corps and I am in awe of how the Lord has arranged my life and all that it has become.   I am blessed......and so very thankful.   And speaking of thankful, this is the month of thanksgiving.......so I am giving thanks and I would like to wish all of you a blessed and plentiful Thanksgiving.   May God be with you always as He has been with me.
  

THE WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL AND HONOR FLIGHTS

THE WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL AND HONOR FLIGHTS


My friends Lyn Braedon-Reed and Jennifer Magerer and I decided that the
best way to spend the day was to head downtown to the WWII Memorial, the
weekend after the government shutdown.   Watching Veterans break through
barricades after flying long distances to visit their memorial this was
a beautiful sight, to see them move freely around the magnificent
monument built to honor them and their fallen brothers.   We came
knowing that there would be three Honor Flights visiting and we wanted
to be a part of that experience.

In case you are not familiar with Honor Flights they are a nonprofit
that funds flights to bring our veterans to Wash DC from all over the
country, while they are still able to travel.   This requires volunteers
to care for the veterans who need constant care, knowing that this may
be the last journey of their lives.  Many of the volunteers are from our
area and sign up to assist the veterans through their visit, on and off
the planes and the buses.     The emotions that this and other War
memorials evoke is difficult to put into words but each is hallowed
ground to be sure.   Our elder veterans walked or were pushed in
wheelchairs.....and you could see they truly felt the spirit of the
monument that payed homage to their service and sacrifice.    There was
no way to be there and not feel the sense of love and appreciation in
the air from the many thankful Americans who greeted these visitors with
enormous rounds of applause and cheers while waving American flags.
The patriotism was palpable.....the air was filled with honor and
respect for those who fought for the freedoms we hold dear today.

Before we headed downtown I was reminded to bring with me the oval black
on white stickers that say "I Served WWII" or "I Served KOREA" and what
a blessing that reminder proved to be.   It was a rather frantic
afternoon with a very threatening sky and chilly winds.   No
matter.....the weather would not deter  anyone.   Three flights arrived
in buses and as the veterans disembarked we welcomed them with open arms
and stickers. The three of us, along with Jennifer's friend Brandi,
approached each of the veterans shaking hands, sharing hugs and
conversation while I handed them the appropriate sticker(s).  Some had
served in both wars, some even three, including Vietnam...... I had
those stickers as well.   Many humbly asked if they could have more than
one  because they had served in more than one war.   Oh my gosh!!
They were so incredibly thankful for the stickers, cherishing them as if
they were extremely valuable.   So often it is the simple little things
that hold so much meaning.

By now you know me......I am all about Patriotism and not good at
holding back tears when it comes to those who have served our country,
past or present.   I cannot sing the Star Spangled Banner without tears
flowing.   This was by far one of the most exceptional events I can
remember.   On Veterans Day, Monday November 11, there are Honor Flights
coming in.  What better day to be there to greet them once again with
our hugs and stickers and flags.   We will repeat this experience as
often as our schedules allow.   There are never enough ways to honor our
war veterans......especially the 'greatest generation.'    This is the
least we can do and I can't wait to be there again and again.

HONORING OUR VETERANS

HONORING OUR VETERANS

It all started months ago when the founder of Quilts of Honor,  Gail Belmont,  Army veteran herself,  told me about an upcoming quilt exhibition that was to take place at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Virginia.   It was to be held October 4-6 with a quilt presentation planned for 2pm on that Saturday.   Then the federal government shutdown  and the Museum was closed to the public.   A museum that really lent itself to the display of quilts draped from walls and railings.   There were multitudes of quilts, all hand made and created by quilters from all over the country that were packed and transported to the Museum.    The quilters spent months, years creating military themed quilts which are their specialty for this exhibition.

The quilters traveled here from states east and west with plans to visit all the military memorials in Washington DC as part of their week in the area.   As you know, along with the museum all the open air memorials were also closed.   It was obvious throughout their visit here, God was at work opening doors for every door that closed.   A new venue was found for the exhibition and presentation.....Mt. Vernon, home of George Washington, welcomed Quilts of Honor and did a splendid job displaying their quilts, although fewer than originally planned for the larger museum.  They opened a portion of their gift shop and offered their small auditorium.   But before I tell you about my visit that Saturday to see the quilts I want to share the other miracles that took place for the quilters.

A trip to the WWII Memorial that was closed to the public, but barricades were opened and they were free to visit and also meet many Veterans who were there with an Honor Flight.   The Vietnam Wall, also closed, was a very special visit.   The name of the brother of one of the quilters is on the wall, and they were determined to lay a wreath and also lay quilts in front of the wall for magnificent photos.

I was in the best of company with two good friends who are moms of combat wounded warriors at Walter Reed.  We were  blessed to attend the events on Saturday, not realizing just how emotional the afternoon would become.   The quilts were the most beautiful we had ever seen.   QOH does not sell them...they make them strictly to present to combat veterans of all generations.   Each quilt was more beautiful than the next, some more intricate, all patriotic.....eagles, flags, stars and stripes.   After closely examining the handiwork of the quilters, we took our seats in the auditorium for the presentation.  Gail and her volunteers had previously met many combat veterans while visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and invited them to Mt Vernon, not divulging the real reason for their invitation which was to present them with quilts and also gift them with passes to visit the Museum.

The ceremony started with members of our National Honor Guard, four (over 6ft tall) handsome Color Guard marching to the stage.  No matter where or when I see our flag and sing our national anthem, I get teary.   It never fails...the tears run.  One of the members of QOH, Marsha Borelli Silva is a singer and songwriter who performed two songs she composed, "Freedom is Not Free" and "America" and then the tears really started flowing.    I am extremely patriotic and get very emotional when it comes to honoring our country.   Then the presentation began.  The name of each veteran was called and a member of QOH presented a quilt that was related to his or her branch of the military.   Each presentation brought a round of applause from an approving auditorium.   In closing the Color Guard marched out, and then returned unofficially and they were given quilts as well.   More tears.   Finally, an announcement that at 3:30 there would be an unplanned presentation to some WWII veterans.   Well, there was no way I was going to leave and miss that ceremony!!!!!

These WWII Navy Veterans, here with an Honor Flight,  all sailed together on the USS Indiana.   As I sat there watching each of these precious elderly gentlemen I could picture my Dad and was overcome with sadness, missing him after losing him two years ago.   These patriots had no idea why they were invited to the museum and  were totally taken aback when their names were called and each was presented with a beautiful quilt.   Some could barely stand on their own, some had family with them, some were so touched that they cried.   What an incredible honor it was to be there to witness this display of appreciation for our older Veterans.   I will never forget that afternoon.

Before all the volunteers left our area to return home to their respective states, Gail,who is an accomplished bugler and has played at many funerals and military functions, played taps at the graveside of George Washington.  What a beautiful final gesture for them before they departed, and what an honor it was for us to be there to share the love and gratitude America feels for it's Veterans.

CARRYING ON TRADITION

CARRYING ON TRADITION

I have to admit that my memory fails to recall far too many details of how I became connected with some of the recipients of my care packages.    The internet was, without a doubt, the most significant means of locating troops I would ship to throughout their deployments.    I cannot remember how some of those troops found me or how I found them.....possibly through Marine forums, through friends, through previous recipients.......a multitude of possibilities.

Back in 2006 I received an email with the name of a Marine who was looking for support for his unit deployed to Fallujah.  They were a reserve infantry unit, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, Charlie Company, "New England's Own" out of Enfield, CT.   The Marine who was the author of that email was 1stSgt Ben Grainger.   I immediately replied that I would be honored to support his Marines and Sailors with care packages.   That was the beginning of a most unique friendship.

Ben was a prolific writer and every evening before he retired after a long day he would sit at his computer (when the power was working) and send an email out to all the families of his troops calling it "The Daily Life Corner."   I say he was unique because daily communication with their families was high priority.  He wanted to reassure all of them back home.   So, no matter how exhausted he was after all day patrols or missions outside the wire, he would pour himself a strong cup of java and write....always with a sense of humor.  Describing daily life in "the Ville", sharing names of Marines not getting mail, tips for men only, tips for women only, marriage tips, always acknowledging and speaking proudly of his Marines...he would write until his eyelids were closing.  He should have been a journalist and I told him that many times because he had a gift, bringing alive what he expressed with words.    He  was able to reassure the families with his humorous descriptions of everything going on around them.   He dubbed Fallujah "The Ville" and their building that they secured as their home the "Holiday Inn Express".  He  loved to write about the unpleasant problem they encountered with rats and other crawling insects and rodents, how the rats chewed through electrical cables and rendered their electronics useless (reason for computer blackouts).  He described the rats as "stealthy insurgent rats that took a liking to his favorite snacks I sent him like trail mix and beef jerky" and in detail shared his plans to eliminate them.   He referred to his Marines as 'the boys.'

In their building Ben set up a gallery with photos of family and friends, explaining to  me that the guys were motivated by the support from home and seeing their photos was a great comfort.    He even had a version of the USO shows.....with photos!  He would place a photo of a famous person like Brittney Spears in a frame in the chow hall and tell them she was the server that day.   Creative, always thinking of new ways to keep their spirits up.  He was there for his boys no matter what the need.   They respected and trusted him.

One of Ben's creations caught the attention of their local press back home, the Hartford Courant.   They sent a reporter over to Iraq to spend some time with Ben and his Marines.  Back home everyone was talking about his nightly reports and his 'new religion', as Ben called it....."Americantology".   At night, for an hour on the sandbagged roof of their building they would meet, erect a flag pole from a radio antennae, haul a boom box up there, and play requests from each of the Marines.   Their favorites, from  patriotic to country to heavy metal.....whatever music made them feel closer to home.  Ben would be their chief prophet, preacher and proselytizer of Americantology.   I truly felt honored to be included in the 1/25 family.

Ben and I corresponded almost daily and stayed in touch when his unit returned home, but not often.   We did communicate a few times a year.   I knew that Ben had kids, but back in 2006 they really were just kids but did not recall how old his boys were.    Just the other day I got a message from Ben on Facebook.   He was inquiring whether I would consider sending care packages to his son, now enlisted in the Army and serving in Afghanistan!!!!   Well, you can imagine how excited I was to be able to support the son of a Marine I had shipped to years ago.   Carrying on the tradition with the next generation really touched my heart.  Today my first box will be shipped to Ben's son, Ben Jr!!!!!   When I started writing for the The Glidden Graphic, I knew one day I would share the story of Ben Grainger and now I had a perfect reason to write it....a father and his son serve their country.    What a blessing for me to keep the tradition going forward!!!

DELAWARE VOLUNTEERS VISIT WALTER REED

DELAWARE VOLUNTEERS VISIT WALTER REED

In order to relate the story of the Marines Helping Marines cookout on August 22, 2013 I have to travel back in time a couple of years.  I also need to emphasize how the internet has impacted the last ten years of my life.  How the Lord connects people and circumstances is something that never ceases to amaze me.  This story starts with a friend of mine  in Michigan who maintains a large internet network of people supporting our troops.   One very special person on her email list is a man in Delaware who himself has an extensive email distribution list sharing prayer requests and news about our troops.  That man, Dan Dobson, is a Vietnam Air Force veteran and a compassionate patriot who loves his country and our wounded warriors.

A few months ago I received a request from Marines Helping Marines seeking sponsors for our monthly cookouts at Walter Reed which I in turn forwarded to my email list.   One of the recipients of that request was Dan, with Trinity Logistics in Seaford, Delaware.   Dan presented the request to the employees of Trinity and their response was overwhelmingly positive.   He informed me that each employee pays into a fund that is designated for supporting a worthy cause.   You have no idea how blessed I felt when he contacted me that the vote was unanimous....they wanted to sponsor our cookout for August and not only that, they wanted participate by driving down to Maryland to meet and serve our wounded warriors and their families.

Thirteen of them were able to make the trip......employees and a few family members.  Trinity is a very family oriented company which employs multiple generations of families.   They arose early to leave Delaware at 7am and arrived safely at Walter Reed around 9am.   I had time to explain the buffet set up procedure while we awaited the arrival of the MHM Veterans who were bringing the equipment and the food.  This was a first for the team from Trinity......spending time with severely wounded Soldiers and Marines, and they were looking forward to taking part in serving our guests, who number around one hundred and fifty.

For the first time this season the veterans with the supplies were running late!   There is quite a lot of organization and labor involved in the preparation........ setting up tables,  arranging the order of the many courses,  cutting dozens of trays of fresh fruits and veggies, grilling  the  steaks, chicken, kababs, burgers and hotdogs .....six long tables arranged with a wide variety of side dishes including desserts, cookies and brownies baked by our volunteers.     What was most impressive was that with all those helping hands we were set up in record time.....less than forty-five minutes.  Normally it takes well over an hour but we were ready with time to spare!    That's how determined and enthusiastic our volunteers were!!!

11:30am.   Time for our guests to arrive.....a nonstop procession of warriors with wheelchairs, crutches, Segways and gurneys accompanied by their families with children and strollers.  They filled their plates and sat to relax and enjoy a real barbecue, a welcome change from their daily hospital fare.   It was extremely hot that day.....over ninety in the shade.....but the heat did not dampen spirits in the least.   Each of the volunteers from Trinity was grateful to have been in the presence of such true American heroes.  As Dan so aptly wrote when he returned home,  "Team Trinity was honored to host a lavish barbeque for our Wounded Warriors and their families at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Building 62. If the cowardly enemy who have maimed these troops think they have broken their spirit, that delusion joins the many that cloud their perverted minds. We were humbled by these men and women who represent the finest we have to offer. They have set the gold standard for perseverance in the face of what many would see as insurmountable odds. God has blessed them as they have given so much for so many of us. It was inspiring to meet them and serve them."

Volunteering is a beautiful opportunity to serve God...... there is no greater sense of reward than serving others.   Whether it is wounded warriors or a special need in one's community, the mission is to provide for their needs.  This is just one of many stories of  groups or individuals who have stepped up to the plate when they saw a chance to give back to our wounded service men and women.   Trinity Logistics was instrumental in lifting the spirits of those who attended the cookout that day.   They shared with me that this event was an experience they would never forget and they look forward  to returning  next summer.  

AN INJURED MARINE'S FAMILY AND THEIR DOGS

AN INJURED MARINE'S FAMILY AND THEIR DOGS

It all started back in March 2012 when Major Eric Burkett was severely injured while piloting his Osprey Tiltrotor helicopter that crashed during a training mission in Morocco.    (You may recall a previous column I wrote last November entitled "Kilts and Bagpipes"... about Major Burkett and the MCFD Pipes and Drums).   This journey began when he was flown to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center - Bethesda.   His family, living in Jacksonville, NC immediately came to the hospital to be at his side.   His family consists of his wife and four adorable children.  Left behind were their two dogs Honor and Izzie, English setters that are inseparable.

This is the story of Honor and Izzie, two English Setters,  and how their lives were altered since Eric was injured.   It was necessary to place them in a kennel in NC indefinitely with the future completely uncertain.   That was sixteen months ago and the family is  still living here as Eric prepares for another surgery this week which will require remaining here for another ten to twelve months.

Eric's wife Melissa has returned to NC many times since he was admitted to the hospital to check on the dogs and to retrieve items needed for the lengthy stay here in Maryland.   A few of those trips allowed her and the kids and sometimes Eric, to stay for a few days....an opportunity to bring Honor and Izzie home from the kennel.   However, for almost the entire time they have been here the dogs have been there in the kennel.  Thankfully that kennel was a loving one where they could remain together with spacious quarters and plenty of room to exercise.   Nevertheless, they were far away from the family who loved them and the separation was difficult for everyone including the dogs.

Fast forward to July 2013.   Realizing that the family would not be moving back to NC for quite some time they decided to find a kennel in Maryland which would allow them to visit Honor and Izzie regularly.   Some very close friends, the Mallarys, who live in Maryland, had a kennel on the property adjacent to theirs.   How perfect!!!   Next door to friends whose home they already visited frequently.     The dogs were moved up here in June  hoping this would be the best possible solution for everyone.   You can imagine how hard it was for their children to be separated from their 'best friends' for so long.

Sadly, this solution was not the final one.  The kennel was less than satisfactory.  Too small, lack of space, and not enough attention.  It was painful for the family to see their dogs in such a setting and something needed to change.   Researching other arrangements Melissa found and related to me the existence of organizations that match foster homes with military pets, a service I had no idea existed, but a service that is surely a blessing to those military families that often cannot take their pets with them for a year or more when they transfer locations.    Foster families will take the pets on a extended temporary basis so the pets do not have to be given away permanently.   What a beautiful concept!!!    This is where this story really gets interesting..........

August 1, 2013.   First thing in the morning I checked my Facebook page, and there was a message from Rick Blandford, manager of the Pipe and Drum band which read,   "This is the longest I've been without a dog in my life.  Next week I will be looking for a 'loner dog' to take to the river....must be a large dog that loves water.  I will return him clean and tired".   That post sparked an idea in my mind.....perhaps Rick and his wife Bonnie would consider being foster parents for the Burkett's two dogs!!!   Keep in mind Eric and Rick had met at the first cookout last year so they were not strangers.     I sent a message to Rick inquiring if they would consider taking the Burkett's two dogs for as long as needed.   Rick said he would check with Bonnie.   My heart was so excited at the possibility!!!   Rick wrote back asking about the dogs and whether they are used to being around cats since Bonnie has two cats.     I got the necessary information from Melissa and forwarded it to Rick.    My anticipation was growing by the minute!   Then, on Sunday, the 4th, Rick came to visit the Burketts at the barracks where they live to discuss the details.

Later that evening when I met with Eric and Melissa and asked how things were looking, I got the awesome news......this Thursday, August 8th, the day before Eric's surgery, Rick and Bonnie will be picking up Honor and Izzie at the kennel to bring them to their home.....a real home with a real family and a large fenced in yard.....praise be to God!!!  Only He could choreograph all of this...........from one kennel to another to a message on Facebook that would bring all if this together.   Days later and I am still in complete awe of how the Lord can do absolutely anything!!  

There is one little detail I saved for last.  When Eric and Rick first met,  Eric had inquired about learning to play the bagpipes.   Due to  their busy schedules, a year has passed with no opportunity for that to happen.   With the dogs at Rick's home, there will be many visits and many hours to learn to play the bagpipes!!!!   So things really did come together in many many ways.  As Rick so beautifully posted on Facebook on Sunday evening...."A few days ago I was looking for a loaner dog, today I meet with a USMC Major who will be at Walter Reed for ten more months while he gets a new leg.  Bonnie Blandford, Erik Blandford and I just got the honor to be foster parents for his two dogs......how cool."   Did I shed a few tears?  You bet I did!!!

To be honest, the true benefit of having the Burketts here for so long is that I have been blessed with their friendship, getting to really know their kids and love them more than  I can express.   They are a big part of my life and I am so thankful for our friendship.   Above all, I thank God for guiding all of our lives and bringing us together.   He is so wise!!!

A GIFT THAT STARTED IN AFRICA

A GIFT THAT STARTED IN AFRICA

Way back when I started shipping care packages to our Marines overseas I often inquired if they would share with me addresses in other locations that I might support.  One of those locations was Djibouti, Africa and that was back in 2004.  One of those recipients, a first sergeant, wrote to thank me and that was the beginning of a wonderful friendship that has continued to this day, and I believe will continue forever.

1stSgt Courtney Curtis, who was with the 3/2 India Company, 4th MEB (Marine Expeditionary Brigade), CJTF (Command Joint Task Force) Djibouti at the time was my new contact in Africa.  He shared photos of himself and his Marines, camels, the terrain (hot dry desert) and the chow hall and helped to give me a sense of the base where they lived and worked.   It truly makes a difference when I can visualize who receives the boxes I ship and where they go!!!!

Not long after Courtney and I connected,  it was time for him to come home on leave during his year deployment.   It was around Easter that year and while he was home his father became ill.   He had to return to Florida to be with his Dad and on his way back to Africa had a stop over in Maryland, at BWI airport.   I had the opportunity to meet him while he was waiting for his connecting flight.  What an great day that was......we had a couple of hours to chat about our families, get to know each other and then say goodbye.

Not long after that I received a very special gift.   My first American flag, flown in my honor, accompanied by a certificate stating that it was flown on Memorial Day May 31st, 2004.  Along with the certificate was a letter from 1stSgt Curtis that said: "Susan, a small token of our appreciation.  From all of us to you, we thank you for your support of our troops deployed.  This flag was flown in Djibouti Africa in your honor.  We think the date is a special one, as we remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we share today.  We also remember those that have given a part of themselves each and every day ensuring that our troops deployed are not forgotten.  Thank you, may God bless you in all that you do."   Well, you can imagine my reaction to such a meaningful gift......by now you know me......I broke down and wept.   My brother in law was kind enough to mount these items in a beautiful shadow box which is displayed proudly in my home. I also received some cultural gifts such as a wooden African mask that I love.

Courtney had been in the Marine Corps since he graduated from high school, and shortly thereafter married his high school sweetheart Becky.   To this day, they are still like high school sweethearts with a precious love that has gotten them through multiple deployments, as well as a son who followed his dad's footsteps into the Marine Corps.   In 2005 when my nephew Alex was returning to Camp Lejeune from a deployment to Afghanistan, my family and I were there for the homecoming.   Courtney happened to be between deployments himself so I was invited to their charming home for dinner.   What a memorable evening that was!   I felt very welcomed and knew that our friendship was something out of the ordinary. During that trip he arranged for a visit to the new Wounded Warrior Barracks (Maxwell Hall), a refurbished barracks on base for our wounded warriors who were transitioning from hospital to home or back to active duty.   I had no idea at the time that my life would be moving in the direction of volunteering with our wounded warriors at Walter Reed (then Bethesda Naval Hospital).   Now that I look back I can see where the Lord was positioning me for what was to come!!!!

No matter where Courtney was stationed I supported his Marines with care packages.   His next deployment was to Iraq in  2005 with VMA 223.   (Marine Attack Squadron with Harrier Jets).   I received a second folded American flag with a certificate that was flown on September 11, 2005, the date chosen by Courtney, knowing how meaningful that date would always be.

When he returned from that deployment he was preparing for the Marine Corps Marathon.  I knew that if he was running that race he would have to be back here in the Maryland DC area.   I had the opportunity to cook him dinner!  On a Sunday morning he was invited to my Dad's for breakfast, so the whole family got to meet him.
Now everyone in my family understood what a treasure he is and why our friendship means so much.

Courtney has transferred a few times since then, traveled all over the country, and finally retired from the Marine Corps as a Sergeant Major just a couple of months ago.   Their family has settled in Yuma, Arizona, where he was at one time stationed and he and Becky fell in love with the climate and the area.   We stay in touch, something that will be much easier now that he will not be deploying again, and will be employed close to home.  Living with Becky full time is a new experience and one that I know they are cherishing after a long career of deployments.

My life has been blessed by his friendship....in so many ways.  He taught me quite a bit about the Marine Corps over the years.   I hope that our paths will cross again, but I feel sure that they will.   Courtney is one of the gifts that the care package ministry have given me.   I have only my God to thank....for only He knows His plans for me........and so far He has done a perfect job of guiding me.

A CHANCE MEETING

A CHANCE MEETING

Timing truly is incredible and when I look back at some of the unexpected events that took place at a specific moment in time I am stunned and in awe of how God is always there working in my life. Care packages are the root of most of the events I have described in previous articles.   The sight of a stack of identically labelled large boxes often brings out the curiosity in people so they inquire as to what they are and where they are going.  I am used to this curiosity and thankful because it often opens doors to new donors or gives me the opportunity to encourage others to support our troops through care packages or a variety of ways.

This event took place on my front doorstep, a large condo highrise with over 400 units.  Naturally I do not know all of the other residents...far too many to get to know.    At the time I was shipping ten to fifteen boxes per week  with the help of a friend, Nancy, who assisted me  for nearly a year and whose  larger vehicle enabled us  to get the boxes to the post office in one trip.   When Nancy  was not available I called on the dedicated Marines from our local recruiting office (the same office where my nephew was recruited) who were always ready and willing to do what was needed to get a shipment to their brothers in arms.

On this particular day while we were loading her van, a tall middle aged gentleman was entering the building and inquired about the boxes.  I launched into my explanation with a big smile and explained that they were heading to Iraq for our Marines in combat at different locations throughout the country.    From that point on the conversation really boggled my mind!!!!

I explained that my nephew was in Iraq serving with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, India Company and his unit was to receive a couple of the fifteen packages that were addressed to many different units. Well, his reply nearly knocked me off my feet.   He was a Marine veteran and served with 3/6 India himself decades ago.   Once again I learn that the Marine Corps world is a very small one indeed. Right here at my front door I met a veteran who served in the same unit as my nephew!!!   That has happened several times since this meeting took place and each time I am surprised!!!

He proceeded to ask for details.....how the care packages were funded and how I obtained the funds.  Evidently he had not seen any of the local TV interviews or newspaper or magazine articles that featured my ministry.  I also told him I counted on word of mouth. Until last September I worked in a mall which gave me access to a constant stream of people, both friends and strangers...... and I was not timid about bringing up the subject of supporting our troops overseas.    He asked what the cost was to fund such a project, and I explained in detail the cost of the contents and the shipping. The trips to Costco, Sam's Club, the Dollar Tree, etc.   I had a distinct feeling  I should ask if he would like to make a donation to support our Marines and he said sure, how much would I like? Well, I thought to myself, why start small, right?  So I asked him if he would be willing to donate $1000.   By now you probably figured out what the answer was, hence my writing this article and sharing this story.    He said 'YES' and asked me to write down my name and where to send the check!!!!

That was not the only time this generous veteran offered to support the Marines in combat.   On several occasions over the years he would send me a check for $500.   This was yet another example of Marines supporting their brothers.   I have come to realize that support extends beyond Marines and  includes their families and supporters as well.   I know that I have been blessed mightily over the years by a multitude of generous folks who responded just as this gentleman did and I am so very grateful and thankful that those donors have been there for our troops for eleven long years.  These donations are all the more meaningful because I am not a registered non-profit organization and their donations are not tax deductible......they are truly giving from their hearts!!!!!!

As the military continues its draw down, deactivates many units and their entire game plan changes, there will be less need for the weekly care packages that have gone out faithfully over the years. I cannot imagine my life without them.....cannot picture my apartment not looking like a mini version of Sam's Club, the entire perimeter piled with non perishable food,  toiletries and magazines.    I have always known that the time would come for this ministry to be over, and trust the Lord to open a new door when that day comes.    I think this year will be the last.   The end of an era in my life that has brought me more joy and friendships than I could have ever conceived.   These eleven years have been life changing in many ways and if you have read my previous articles you already know what I am talking about.

Thank you to my neighbor and ALL the others who have been there, believing in me and my desire to bring happiness and comfort and a sense of home to our troops deployed!   I will never forget what these years have meant to me.   Writing these stories  and sharing them with the reader gives them a sense of permanence.   To God goes the glory........for only He is capable of arranging each event that I write and publish.   I truly love knowing that all of you appreciate and enjoy my writings.

LIVING HISTORY

LIVING HISTORY

Have you ever read an article somewhere that was so unusual that it stuck in the back of your mind and keeps coming to the surface every now and then?  That is what I want to share with you today.   There was a story of a young boy who asked his grandfather to come to his elementary class and tell his schoolmates about his service in the Army.   All I could think about was how mesmerized those students must have been hearing those stories firsthand instead of from a history book.  How exciting and how real....bringing history to life!!!!!   That article remained buried in my memory for a few years before it popped up again in 2009.

You know by now that I have a great love and appreciation for our veterans of all generations.  I love to share with my readers how their lives have impacted mine or how their service has changed their own lives.   It occurred to me that perhaps the local high schools might benefit from hearing those stories firsthand just as the class of that little boy many years ago.   It was time to do some research.

I sat down and made a list of all the local high schools.....then called each school's resource department inquiring as to whether they would be interested in veterans coming to speak to their history classes.   I learned that the speakers would need to coincide with the curriculum as it progressed through the school year and that would be in the spring, closer to Easter and not too far from the end of the school year.     Of course any speakers would be from WWII or later.    Several schools were very enthusiastic about my idea so I started reaching out to veterans.

Thank goodness for the internet and the many Marine Corps and military forums that I frequent.   Working in retail in a mall also allowed me to meet veterans too.  I put ads in a couple of magazines and posted my request in as many places as possible.   Within a couple of weeks I had a terrific list of several veterans, from WWII,  Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Iraq.   I have to say I was pretty excited that this was working out!!!   The one drawback for me was that I could not be in class for most of the visits because I was working.

However, there were two Vietnam veteran speakers whose classes I was able to attend and I was, without a doubt, as mesmerized as the high school kids.   One very special speaker happened to be a friend as well, Everett Alvarez, longest held POW in Vietnam, eight and one half years.   His story was spellbinding to say the least.   You could have heard a pin drop and there were four classes gathered together in the cafeteria to hear him speak.   The details of his incarceration in the Hanoi Hilton was breathtaking.   I was so incredibly grateful that Everett took time from his busy schedule to speak to the students.

Another speaker of that era spoke of the history of Vietnam before, during and after the war.   It was a history lesson that was far more interesting in person than from a textbook.   Even the teacher was completely absorbed by his delivery.   The other classes at other schools I was not able to hear, but the teachers contacted me and thanked me for bringing the living history to their classrooms. They sent thank you notes to the speakers and hoped to repeat the experiences in the future.

Sadly the next year the weather reeked havoc on the curriculum....too many snow days so there was no time for extra curricular special lessons.   It turned out to be a one semester endeavor and then I was so involved with the care packages that I let it go.   I do believe I need to attempt to repeat the project.

Perhaps there are some of you reading this article who might consider volunteering to speak at the schools of your children or grandchildren.   I know it would be a wonderful experience for everyone involved.   So many veterans have such meaningful stories to tell......some have never been told before and some have been repeated many times........but to the ears of the children....all ages........those stories may be what triggers a deeper interest in our country's history!!!   Think about it!!!

MEMORIAL DAY.....WHAT IS WAS AND WHAT IT SHOULD BE

MEMORIAL DAY.....WHAT IT WAS AND WHAT IT SHOULD BE

In the 1860's a day of remembrance was declared, Decoration Day, to honor those who have died in our nation's service during the Civil War.  Memorial Day was officially proclaimed in May 1868 and after WWI the holiday was changed from honoring the Civil War dead to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war.

Sadly the majority of Americans look forward to Memorial Weekend as the beginning of their summer holiday, three months of sun, fun, cookouts, sales in the stores and partying.  School is out and all things serious are put aside until the fall when school resumes. Even our administration in Washington, our nation's leaders, rush out of town for the summer.  They head for their home states for three months, appearing in the media for 'photo ops' in parades on holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veteran's Day.   I do believe that there are a handful of them who honestly revere these holidays and know in their hearts the true meaning of those holidays and I thank them for being an example to the population at large.

For those families who have lost a father, brother, uncle, mother, sister, cousin.......their memorial candle shines brightly in their darkness.   Their sadness and loss is real and they are offended by the lack of patriotism and honor that should be accorded to their lost loved ones on this special holiday........and they live it every day of their lives.

In December 2000 a resolution was passed which asks Americans "to voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of Remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing, for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps' at 3pm on Memorial Day. It is a step in the right direction to bring awareness to the purpose of this holiday.

When Congress made the day into a three day weekend in 1971 it made it easy for people to be distracted from the true meaning  of Memorial Day.  If it were officially  observed on it's original  May 30 every year,  perhaps Americans would treat the day as the solemn, even sacred day that it deserves.

We, as Americans, owe everything to our fallen, no matter the war or the generation.  My involvement with our wounded warriors and their families, hearing their stories and seeing the pain for their lost brothers, keeps that reverence alive in me every day.  All Americans, whether personally connected to the military or not, should never forget those who have laid down their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy every day.

I have always felt that the greeting "Happy Memorial Day" was completely inappropriate.   I prefer to remind people to remember the reason for their long holiday weekend.    I pray that the citizens of this great country will take a few moments to let their minds wander back over the decades of many wars and the many thousands who gave their lives for America.   It is the very least we can do.   I pray that at 3pm on May 30 America will remember and say a little prayer of gratitude.   I wish you a blessed and meaningful Memorial Day.

A LIFE SAVING PRAYER CHAIN

A LIFE SAVING PRAYER CHAIN


There are times when watching the national news triggers memories and bring a personal event back to the forefront of my mind.   This is one of those stories......about organ donations and how crucial they are. 

Back in March 2010 my mother received a call from a neighbor Betty, whom she knew as an acquaintance but not really a close friend.  Betty had been on kidney dialysis for a long time.   She was in need of a kidney desperately or she would not live.   It was that simple.  A kidney or she would die.   She knew from my mother that I was actively involved in prayer at my church and via the internet and asked her to ask me if  I might reach out through my church and through emails searching for a kidney donor.    I felt blessed to be given the opportunity to do this, and one of the people in my prayer chain has a prayer chain of his own that reaches all over the country.....it is nation wide and goes out each morning five days a week and in emergencies on weekends.   This was the start of a chain of events that glorifies our awesome God!!     Once again He was going to connect those who needed to be connected.

Just days after his prayer request went out a young lady in Delaware responded.    Everything was to take place at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore and Beth drove down there several times.    The matching process began...multitudes of tests that normally take months or close to a year to complete.    This young woman was a missionary and had plans  to return to the mission field in Africa at the end of the year, therefore they needed to speed up the process once the initial tests proved to be a match.  It is very rare that someone outside the family will be a match!

The hospital also wanted her to have twelve weeks of recovery time after the surgery.   The surgery was scheduled for late September.   A week or two before the surgery she went hiking and was bitten by a tick.   They then had to postpone the surgery while they ran more blood tests to make sure there were no unexpected complications from the tick bite.   Once they determined that they were cleared to proceed  the surgery was rescheduled for October.   With that delay of the surgery there was a critical and very small window of time for the procedure to take place while allowing  for the recovery time afterward.

Here is an  interesting twist to this story..........when kidney transplant surgeries are planned, the hospital often arranges for pairs of donors and recipients to be prepped for surgery at the same time, a kidney chain, so to speak.    In this case there were two pairs ready and waiting...two donors and two recipients.   This young missionary's kidney did not go to Betty, but to the other recipient who was in need.   In Beth's words,   "Just another cool aspect to the story; while I was in the hospital recovering, there was a guy there named Sean who was also somehow part of our kidney chain. Since I wasn't a match for Betty, we did a paired donor exchange. So I think Betty actually got his kidney, and mine went to the person he was donating on behalf of."

Beth was able to recover in time for her mission trip  and so ended the series of events that started with an email prayer request.....or so I thought.    Last Friday I woke up with the decision to write about this chain of events but knew there were some important details I was not able to recall.   I had not heard from Beth in many months as she did send a periodic update from the mission field.     To my surprise,  I got an email from her that very same morning!!!!     Beth was able to pull together the details of the entire process from start to finish with approximate dates which is how I able to quote the information that she supplied.      God does work in mysterious ways and He always provides what we need......and so often His timing benefits our timing!   How awesome to know I have such a God I can always count on.....from the smallest of details in my life to the enormous moving of mountains......

THE SONG THAT CAUGHT MY HEART

THE SONG THAT CAUGHT MY HEART

The last eight years visiting Walter Reed National Military Medical Center - Bethesda allowed me to experience so many friendships at so many levels.   From patients to their families and staff.   As I have written in previous columns, I consider each of these relationships a blessing in every way.   Naturally I feel acutely aware of the issues that affect our wounded warriors......their challenges and their goals.

In the summer of 2011 a friend posted a video on the internet that captured my ears and my heart.   That video was "Still in The Fight" produced by Bill Brown, and featuring three wounded warriors......Kyle Carpenter, Spanky Gibson and Aaron Mankin.   The singer/songwriter is Mike Corrado, LtCol of Marines at the Wounded Warrior Regiment.   It is a tremendous video that draws attention to the struggles and the courage of our war wounded warriors.  

One of those warriors, Kyle Carpenter, I had the honor of meeting shortly after he was admitted to the hospital in November 2010.   Of course he would not remember that visit, as he was not in very good shape at the time due to his serious injuries.   But I can tell you meeting him had quite an impact on me.   He was a fighter.........it was evident from the start.   His family was there surrounding his bedside that Christmas.  Today Kyle has become an inspirational example of overcoming those injuries...far surpassing even what the doctors believed possible!!!  

Back to the video............when I first watched it I was so impressed that I watched it numerous times and then knew I had to contact the producer and tell him what an incredible film he had created!  At the time there was a fund drive taking place to raise money to make the video into a feature film.  I found a link that provided the name of Bill Brown's company and when I got the phone number I called Bill directly.   It was a call that was meant to be.   We spoke for nearly an hour, but if you know Bill, that is easy to do!   He is such a personable guy and we had so many facets of the military, the wounded and such that we could relate to.  Most important was that I wanted him to know that I was truly impressed by the video and the song.    That was the beginning of a special friendship.

As time passed and it became 2012 the video gave birth to the documentary of the same name, 'Still in the Fight.' Bill made several visits to Walter Reed for filming and that gave us the opportunity to meet over lunch with his partner Billy Lewis.    What a pleasure it was to spend a little quality time together and speak of the film and it's future.

The rest of the story is history......later that year, October to be exact, Bill asked me if I would consider writing some of the experiences I had relayed to him over the phone.   He believed that the wondrous ways God has been working in my life would make good reading....stories that others would appreciate.   At first I hesitated, having not written seriously except business letters when needed
or when requesting donations for the care packages I ship that you have read about.   After a few minutes I realized he was right.......that the stories that were floating around in my head might be worth putting down on paper.   Thus the beginning of my new career as a columnist!   I am indebted to Bill for opening that door for me....a door that God knew would open one day.....and last October was the time.    I have to say that I feel incredibly blessed by the responses I have received when friends and strangers read about the events that have taken place in my life.   I regret not keeping a journal all those years, as friends suggested I do......so I have to wait now for something to trigger the memories and then I am able to share them with you, the readers.   Thank you all for your positive reinforcement and comments.   Perhaps if Bill would allow, I would love to hear from some of you who are not in my familiar circle of friends.   Hopefully I can continue to count on my memory to bring these ever so special recollections to you on a regular basis!

A FAMILIAR NAME

A FAMILIAR NAME

Eleven years ago when I embarked on this journey to support our troops in the Middle East with care packages I decided I should print many of the emails that pertained to the packages.   Not just 'thank you' emails, but newsletters from the various units I shipped to, news articles from all media sources, and more.   I had no idea what I would do with them, but I printed them and saved them.  Files for particular individual recipients, specific units and each of their deployments, etc, many of whom I have written about in the articles you have read.   The funny thing is, from the beginning, dozens of people suggested I keep a journal of all the amazing things that have transpired over those eleven years.   I am not the sort of person who journals every day.  Of course now I regret not doing so, as I have to rely on my memory for the multitude of notable experiences  that have had such an impact in my life.   Too late now.....and I have been through all the files, mountains of them.   There are still a few good stories to relate in those files, and today I am sharing one that really is amazing!

As I have written in the past my nephew Alex McBride was with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines and was deployed to Iraq 2005-2006 for his last deployment based out of Al Qaim.   There were several significant missions during that deployment, one being Operation Steel Curtain, and it was a difficult tour filled with too many casualties.   Multiple missions, one after the other, nearly constant combat and constant danger.   The chaplains deployed with their Marines and Sailors had their work cut out for them.   Offering advice of all sorts, along with sharing God's word and comfort in times of fear.   As many of you know from being in combat, often one feels closer to God in times of terror and the unknown.   I can only speak from the stories that have been related to me by those who have lived with that fear and from the chaplains themselves.

As I was reading through a folder last week for Alex's last deployment, I came across the name of the chaplain who was serving with 3/6 at the time.  His name was LT Bryan Crittendon.   Not exactly a common name, and surely there could not be more than one Navy Chaplain with the same name.   The reason it caught my eye was because I am shipping packages now to a chaplain....LCDR Bryan Crittendon.

Immediately I wrote an email to the current Chaplain Crittendon, inquiring whether he was in Iraq with 3/6 back in '05-'06 and whether the name Alex McBride sounded familiar.    He replied almost immediately that the name rang a bell, but he could not place the face that went with the name.   I responded with a short description.....Alex was 5'4", had been with India Company and had sent me a photo of him being baptized.    Alex had written that although it would have been meaningful to be baptized in the Euphrates River it was dangerous and very dirty.   Well, guess what?   Chaplain Crittendon remembered distinctly building a baptistery outside their little chapel and baptizing Alex!!!    That was seven years and many deployments ago, but he remembered vividly that day near the Euphrates where Alex was baptized and could now put a face to the name.    We were both stunned at the connection after all these years!  

Chaplain Crittendon is still serving with the Marines and Sailors of Camp Lejeune but with a different unit.   Once again I have the honor of supporting him and the men with whom he is serving, imparting his wisdom, advice and comfort.   Once again life comes full circle.......connecting each of us in a very special way that only God could orchestrate.

EASTER IN AFGHANISTAN

EASTER IN AFGHANISTAN

My care packages are fairly similar in content and do not change throughout the year.   The boxes contain lots of non-perishable food, some toiletries, socks and lots of reading material.  The Marines like to read magazines such as Guns and Ammo, American Rifleman, Car and Driver, Sports Illustrated, Bowhunter, Motorcycles, Rolling Stone, Men's Journal, and a daily devotional "Our Daily Bread" for those who seek spiritual enrichment every morning.   Each year a local Girl Scout troop reaches out to their friends and families to purchase cookies for my care packages and I am astonished when multiple cases are delivered to my home.   Those cookies are always cherished by the recipients and a tasty reminder of home.

This past January started with a new challenge...a special request from one of my contacts, a first sergeant with 8th Communications Battalion.  We had been in contact since they arrived in Afghanistan.   She wrote that she had 130 troops at her location and wondered if it would be possible to supply items she had included on her Easter wish list.   The list included Easter baskets, grass for the baskets, plastic Easter eggs, chocolate Easter candy and stuffed animals.  

I felt in my heart that when I sent out the email request to friends who have supported the care packages over the years their enthusiasm to participate would be contagious, and it was.   One of those friends shared my email with some of her friends and then things really began to take off!!!   Nevertheless I was truly stunned at the responses I received from friends and strangers alike.    One sewing club offered to hand-make 130 burlap Easter baskets with hand braided handles (burlap would fold up and be much easier to pack and ship than straw baskets)......but can you imagine hand sewing 130 of them, and then adding braided handles?    One couple offered to supply the stuffed animals.  Another donor offered to supply the plastic eggs, and another the grass.   Lastly a club  I belong to offered to supply the chocolates.... foil covered  eggs, individual chocolate crosses and chocolate bunnies, as well as 130 signed Easter cards, hand delivered to me.  Thank goodness we started in January!!!!

Each of the donors shipped their contributions directly to the Marines because the donors were scattered all over the US.   The candy and cards I shipped because  they were local.   Arrival date in Afghanistan was of great concern.   Since this project started in January we assumed we had plenty of time.  However, that is not always the case when you are counting on the mail system.   Items arrived over a span of several weeks starting in February with the grass arriving the day after Easter.   The 1stSgt managed to put everything together in such a way that each recipient received a basket with each of the items.   They were also treated to a cookout in celebration of the Easter holiday.

The pleasure derived from giving is as great, if not greater, than receiving.    Each of us who contributed was anxious to see photos of our troops enjoying their Easter gifts.   To know that from so many distant places this project came together almost flawlessly was truly uplifting.    It is a wonderful feeling to know that there are Americans out there who want to show their support, to let our troops overseas know that they are loved, appreciated and not forgotten, on holidays and every day.

GOD SPOKE

GOD SPOKE

There are five tall high rise condominiums and several garden apartments that make up the complex where I live.  There is also a security staff that rides in little golf carts around the property twenty-four hours a day.   Back in 2005 my Mom was chatting with one of the security guards, a charming Pakistani gentleman whose son just happened to be deployed to Iraq with the Marine Corps!!!   Naturally my Mom wanted us to connect so that I might support his son with care packages, which you know is one of the passions of my life.   I got his son's address and commenced shipping immediately.   His son Ali  was with 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, out of California.   That was the beginning of a most unusual journey for both of us. 

 Ali was stationed in Ramadi, Iraq during that deployment and as you may recall 2005 was an intense time of combat in many areas of the country.   Ali and I corresponded as he received and shared the care packages.   All was going smoothly until late one night I received a phone call from his Dad.   He was informed that Ali had been shot in the head, but no further information was available.   His Dad called me hoping I might know someone who could give him more details.  I spent hours calling everyone I knew in the Marine Corps, and no one was home.  Then I remembered I could reach the liaison office at Bethesda Naval Hospital (now Walter Reed).   I gave the liaison  his Dad's phone number and what little information I had.   Not until early the next morning did his Dad call to let me know he had just heard from Ali and  that his injuries  was not as severe as previously reported.   Shrapnel wounds to his head, eye, upper body, and one eardrum.... he had stepped on an IED and thanks be to God he was still alive!!!!     Ali spent a short time mending physically and then returned to the fight to complete his deployment,  but not without a deep fear that had not existed prior to his injuries.   

When Ali returned home to Maryland for his two- week leave he invited me to dinner so that we could meet.  It was an evening I will always remember.  A tall handsome young man with a warm and caring demeanor, he  brought me an enormous  Patriotic basket arrangement with huge stuffed Patriotic bears and wood Americana carvings.  I was so touched by such a perfect but unnecessary gift!!   With his permission I donated the stuffed animals to the local Fisher House at Bethesda Naval Hospital and the carvings still adorn my wall.   Ali and I formed a unique friendship  because I was the one civilian with whom he could discuss his military life and share his stories that others would not understand.

Ali deployed again in September of 2006.   He was at sea on a MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) returning to the Middle East.   About that same time I had been introduced via emails to a Marine Veteran who was serving in Iraq, Johnny Russo,  and in his emails he quoted Scripture.   He quoted Psalms 91 and 121 which related to warriors and God's protection.   That was my introduction to Scripture and it was so beautiful that it moved me to purchase my first Bible and read the Word of God regularly.  

Mid-November I got a call late one night from Ali who was back in Kuwait mobilizing to return to Iraq within hours.   This time he spoke of his dread and feared he would not return alive from this tour.   I tried to calm him and tell him that he would be safe but I felt his fear in my heart.  He had to hang up quickly but said he would try to call one more time before heading into the unknown.   I got down on my knees and I cried and prayed and cried and prayed until I crawled into bed and cried myself to sleep.   In the black of night and in a sound sleep I was awakened by the brightest white flash of light and I awoke trembling.   I knew that God had spoken to me.  White light is a sign of peace and hope.   I was wide awake and I knew that Ali and his Marines would all survive this deployment.   Again my phone rang.   The timing was God's........I was able to impart God's message to Ali....I told him what had just happened.........how God woke me up with the message that he would not be hurt.   He could return to combat knowing  he was covered with the Lord's hedge of protection.   We were both so relieved and he said he was so thankful that he had called because he was at peace now and would not be afraid.   Needless to say, Ali and his brothers returned home safely.  No one was hurt.  Praise God for His power and love!!!!

Throughout Ali's deployment he wrote  several times to tell me that he truly felt the presence of God protecting him and that his fellow Marines also thanked me for sharing God's message with him which he had relayed to them.   Ali completed his enlistment obligation in July of 2007.   We remained close friends and my Mom and I attended his wedding  a couple of years later.  Now he is happily married but does not stay in touch.   I understand how that works....as many of my contacts stay close in trying times but when they settle into their new civilian lives they separate their new lives from the old.  

How blessed I am to have experienced such an event as God speaking to me.  I realize that this gift from God is a rare gift, and one that had a profound impact not only on my life but the lives of others.   A turning point, you might say, that brought peace to a terrifying moment.   My prayer is that my God will open up many more opportunities to serve him and share just how powerful He is.

BROTHERS IN ARMS

BROTHERS IN ARMS

My care package effort over the last eleven years has brought a wide range of emotions and events, as you may have read in some of my previous writings.   This is one unusual story that started with care packages shipped to 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, a unit I have supported since the onset of the Iraq conflict.   However, this takes place in 2009-2010.   My contact was their chaplain, Terry Roberts, a chaplain I wrote about in a previous article and whom I met when he visited my sister's home in NC.

I receive email notices from the DoD (Department of Defense) regarding news involving our troops deployed, which also includes death notices.   Friends have asked why I signed up for these notices and my explanation is that if one of the Marines or Sailors in units I support is killed in action, I want to express my condolences to their families.   I want their families to know that there are folks unrelated to their loved one's unit who share their burden by offering prayer and support.

On August 7, 2009 Lcpl. Dennis Burrow of 2/8 was killed in action in Afghanistan.   The notice appeared in my email and it broke my heart.  Dennis was from my neck of the woods although I did not know him personally.   I sent a card to his mother and planned to attend the funeral later that month on August 24.   Dennis' funeral was my first experience with the incredible and dedicated Patriot Guard Riders (PGR), who stand guard and protect the families of the fallen from atrocities like the Westboro Baptist Church, a group that defames and insults the families of the fallen for misguided reasons.  The members of the PGR lined the sidewalk to the church, and as I made my way inside I shook the hands of each of them and wept in gratitude for their patriotism and respect for our fallen warriors.   By the time I reached my seat I was already an emotional wreck!

The service included eulogies from friends and family.   One family member was Dennis' brother Chris, home on leave from the US Army and deploying shortly afterward to Afghanistan himself.   He could have chosen not to deploy but he felt strongly regarding  his commitment to fighting for our country and also for the memory of his fallen brother.   There were words of humor and of sadness, laughs and tears, but a sense of closeness for all who attended this memorial service.

After some time passed I called Dennis' Mom, Daryl, to see how she was doing.   We chatted about our lives, hers in nursing and mine in retail jewelry.   As it happened Chris had purchased a diamond prior to his deployment to present to his girlfriend when he returned on leave from Afghanistan, but the diamond needed a setting.   I suggested she stop in and visit the store, which she did soon after our phone call.   Chris had sent his Mom  a photograph of the setting he and his fiance had hoped to find and I had one that was almost identical to the photo.   We set the diamond in the mounting so it was ready for him to propose while on a cruise with his family when he returned home.    It meant so much to me to have the opportunity to be a tiny part of their marriage plans.

Often Chris and his fiance would stop in the store to say hello after his deployment was completed.   They kept me abreast of their wedding plans and continued to visit when in the area.   Now that I am retired I have sadly lost contact with many of these dear young people whose lives have impacted mine in such unusual ways.   I give thanks to God for His Holy Spirit moving me in all walks of my life.    When a family loses someone it is difficult to see beyond their  grief, but sometimes there is a glimmer of hope that happiness can exist in the midst of their sorrow.  

CAMP LEJEUNE HOMECOMINGS AND LASTING FRIENDSHIPS

CAMP LEJEUNE HOMECOMINGS AND LASTING FRIENDSHIPS

Homecomings at Camp Lejeune may be a thing from my past but they replay in my mind frequently.   They are so emotional that I relive them as if they were last week!

My nephew Alex McBride, who served with 3rdBn/6th Marines from '02-'06 deployed three times.   His first deployment was to the Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan where the Marines stood guard duty around the perimeter of the Embassy compound.  He considered that deployment so uneventful that he did not even suggest we drive  down there when he returned home so we missed that first homecoming altogether!!!   Alex's family was still living in Maryland at that time.

His second deployment was to the mountains of Afghanistan.  I felt it would be a tremendous stress reliever for us at home to communicate with a few families of the Marines with whom he was close. There were three  families and we connected via  phone and internet, sharing the range of emotions that families back home experience while their loved ones served overseas.   The Lyborgs from AL (son Michael), the Sandersons from FL (son Derek) and Marti Baker from MD (son Arthur). Our friendships grew in a way that was unique to the wartime situation.   Watching the news we shared their successes in battle and we mourned their tragic losses.......   We shared our fears and our tears.   Alex's parents,  like countless other families back  home, carried on their daily routine while in the back of their mind was that terror of the dreaded knock on the door informing them that their Marine had fallen in the line of duty. Thankfully that day did not come and before we knew it the time had come to plan for their homecoming!!!!

For me, it was so much more than just the homecoming because I was finally going to meet these families.  It was exciting planning how we would identify each other in a huge crowd.   Choosing certain attire that was easy to locate in the crowd worked perfectly!   With cell phones in hand, we found each other over a vast sea of families spread over the  parking lot.   It was so wonderful to unite before the actual arrival of our Marines and we had more than ample time.    In typical military fashion we were told to arrive by 11am but of course there were multiple delays and our Marines did not arrive until 1am.    It was difficult for the families with little children, but for us it meant more time for getting to know one another.   The aura  of anticipation was in the air.  There was television coverage, radio coverage......and walkie -talkies along the route where the buses would bring the men home.   False reports on and off set the crowd into a frenzy!!!   And then at long last they were nearly home.  It was late and it was cold but it didn't matter.

A long row of buses snaked around the corner............all eyes straining to see the faces in the windows.....and then, just like in the movies, there was the shouting of names, arms reaching around necks, prolonged kisses,  joyful tears, children lifted in the arms of their dads.
Of course Alex was in the very last bus.......and the tears were pretty much gushing by now.   It was so incredible to see him, hold him and thank God that he was there with us.   We couldn't keep our hands off of him.   They turned in their gear, grabbed their sea bags and we were on our way.

Alex's third deployment and our second and last homecoming was timed perfectly for his unit to be home for Christmas!!!   That was the best news we could have possibly hoped for!  It started out like the previous homecoming except for one unpleasant detail.....the weather!   It was cold, dark, rainy and windy.   The weather prevented everyone from enjoying the camaraderie we had experienced previously.  Everyone was huddled in their cars, so there was none of the warmth of being together and  no conversation while awaiting the buses.   We greeted each other quickly and then ran for our cars.   We exited the cars long enough to grab  our Marines and their gear and hit the road.   What a let down after our first encounter was so wonderful!!!

Many years have passed since that '06 homecoming.   Many lives have changed.   The Lybords and the Sandersons and Marti Baker and I will remain friends forever.   The Sandersons were here in the area to visit a few years ago and we really enjoyed being together for a short time. The Lyborgs, including Michael, were here last summer and we had a beautiful reunion which we will not be forgetten. Marti Baker and I stay in touch, Arthur is now a fire fighter in Wash DC.   Michael Lyborg and Derek Sanderson are still active duty and enjoying their careers in the Marine Corps.