Airman Mom

Somebody's Son

2012-01-27T00:03:00.000-05:00

Lance Cpl. Shane W. Stokes, a Springfield, Mo., native and an infantryman with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, walks with a new friend he met while patrolling through a local bazaar. Mobs of curious children following patrols became a common sight in the village of Regay and the surrounding area, once the Marines and Afghan Uniformed Police patrolmen cleared the area of insurgent influence and emplaced a new security presence there.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes)
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

Prayer Request

2012-01-26T00:02:00.000-05:00

It was just about four years ago, I began blogging. Quickly, I discovered there are tons of bloggers out there! Some blogs are no less than amazing. I've always been mindful there are real people on the other side of the screen, sharing whatever is important at that moment. Real people... not just laptops spewing out words. Real people.

One of the first blogs I began to follow was SargeCharlie. Sarge is a Vietnam Vet. Sarge is a Patriot. Sarge is an all round good guy. From the first time I happened upon his words and his face...he has always reminded me of my dad. (a slightly younger version). Sarge, like my dad has had to face an insane battle with lung cancer. Sarge is strong and Sarge is brave...a good soldier. He's up against something huge... and it looks as though.... well. My heart hurts.

Please lift Sarge and Miss Bee in your prayers. Please pray for peace and comfort. Please stop by his blog and leave a hug.

Wednesday Hero 01/25/2012

2012-01-25T00:40:00.001-05:00

Maj. Merlyn Hans Dethlefsen
53 years old from Royal, Iowa
354th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 355th Tactical Fighter Wing
June 29, 1934 - December 14, 1987

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Major Merlyn Hans Dethlefsen, United States Air Force, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 354th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 355th Tactical Fighter Wing, near Thai Nguyen, North Vietnam, on 10 March 1967. Major Dethlefsen was one of a flight of F-105 aircraft engaged in a fire suppression mission designed to destroy a key anti-aircraft defensive complex containing surface-to-air missiles (SAM), an exceptionally heavy concentration of anti-aircraft artillery, and other automatic weapons. The defensive network was situated to dominate the approach and provide protection to an important North Vietnam industrial center that was scheduled to be attacked by fighter bombers immediately after the strike by Major Dethlefsen's flight. In the initial attack on the defensive complex the lead aircraft was crippled, and Major Dethlefsen's aircraft was extensively damaged by the intense enemy fire. Realizing that the success of the impending fighter bomber attack on the center now depended on his ability to effectively suppress the defensive fire, Major Dethlefsen ignored the enemy's overwhelming firepower and the damage to his aircraft and pressed his attack. Despite a continuing hail of anti-aircraft fire, deadly surface-to-air missiles, and counterattacks by MIG interceptors, Major Dethlefsen flew repeated close range strikes to silence the enemy defensive positions with bombs and cannon fire. His action in rendering ineffective the defensive SAM and anti-aircraft artillery sites enabled the ensuing fighter bombers to strike successfully the important industrial target without loss or damage to their aircraft, thereby appreciably reducing the enemy's ability to provide essential war material. Major Dethlefsen's consummate skill and selfless dedication to this significant mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.

Maj. Dethlefson retired from the Air Force in 1977 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He died in 1987 of natural causes and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of Wednesday Hero. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Sweet Looking Aircraft

2012-01-24T09:07:00.002-05:00

DoD's first production F-35B Lightning II joint strike fighter soars over Destin, Fla., on its way to its new home at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The Marine variant of the JSF belongs to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 501. The Marines of VMFAT-501 received two F-35Bs Jan. 11. Both aircraft were escorted in by Marine F-18 Hornets. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Joely Santiago)

Wednesday Hero 01/18/2012

2012-01-18T13:54:00.002-05:00

Capt. Eddie S. Ray
57 years old from Seattle, Washington
Company B, 1st Light Armored Infantry Battalion, Task Force Shepherd, 1st Marine Division

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Eddie S. Ray, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as Commanding Officer, Company B, First Light Armored Infantry Battalion, Task Force Shepherd, FIRST Marine Division, in the Emirate of Kuwait on 25 February 1991. During the early morning hours of G+1 of Operation Desert Storm, an Iraqi mechanized division counter-attacked elements of the FIRST Marine Division in the vicinity west of the flame and smoke engulfed Burgan Oil Fields in Southeastern Kuwait. As dense black smoke shrouded the battlefield, an Iraqi mechanized brigade engaged the FIRST Marine Division Forward Command Post security forces. During the ensuing intense ten hour battle, Captain Ray repeatedly maneuvered his Light Armored Vehicle Company in harm's way, skillfully integrating his Light Armored Infantry weapons, reinforcing TOW's, and AH-1W Attack Helicopters to decisively defeat main Iraqi counter-attacks. Leading from the front and constantly exposed to large volumes of enemy fire, Captain Ray led swift, violent attacks directly into the face of the vastly larger enemy force. These attacks shocked the enemy, destroyed 50 enemy Armored Personnel Carriers, and resulted in the capture of over 250 Iraqi soldiers. Operating perilously close to the attacking enemy, Captain Ray's courage, composure under fire, and aggressive war fighting spirit were instrumental in the defeat of a major enemy effort and the successful defense of the Division Forward Command Post. By his outstanding display of decisive leadership, unlimited courage in the face of heavy enemy fire, and utmost devotion to duty, Captain Ray reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of Wednesday Hero. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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My warmest thanks to Christopher Lee for his dedication to our Troops.
Thanks to all who post Wednesday Hero posts!
Most of all... heartfelt thanks to each and every Hero!

Somebody's Son

2012-01-13T08:03:00.002-05:00

INDIAN OCEAN (Jan. 10, 2012) Aviation Electrician's Mate Airman Michael Johnson, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, carries tie-down chains to an F/A-18E Super Hornet aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans/Released)
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 01/11/2012

2012-01-11T07:18:00.000-05:00

Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey M. Day

Col. Jessie O. Farrington (Left), U.S. Army Aviation Center for Excellence deputy commander, presents Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey M. Day (Right), of the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization, with the Air Medal with Valor for exceptionally meritorious achievement in valor.

Photo Courtesy U.S. Army Taken By Nathan Pfau

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold...

2012-01-09T00:03:00.000-05:00

Airman from Westminster is killed in Afghanistan
A 24-year-old airman from Westminster was killed when an improvised explosive device hit his vehicle in Afghanistan, the Defense Department said Saturday.

Airman 1st Class Matthew R. Seidler died Thursday in the attack, which killed two other airmen. They were patrolling in Helmand, a southwestern province that remains a Taliban stronghold.

"When he joined the Air Force, he blossomed. He became himself," said a cousin, Kalyn Masek, who last communicated with Seidler on Tuesday, his birthday. "I was really, really proud of him and the man that he'd become."

Seidler, an explosive ordnance disposal technician, entered active duty in November 2009. He was assigned to the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado.

"He loved what he did" for the military, said Masek, who was surprised when Seidler told her that he was joining the Air Force. Being involved in the disarmament of explosives fed his intellect, she said, and excited him in a way that prior false starts in his professional life had not.

Seidler graduated from Westminster Senior High School in 2006. He took classes for a year in business administration at Stevenson University and then started in a multimedia design program at Carroll Community College before deciding to join the military.

"He was extremely smart," said longtime friend Bryan Vana, who'd known Seidler since middle school. Vana said he was taken aback when Seidler asked him to be a reference for his Air Force admission, but said the decision made sense because military service would satisfy Seidler's desire for new, evolving challenges.

Andrea Masek said she often played poker with her nephew. Poker and other strategy games were his favorite pastime, she said, and he had a serious demeanor at the table.

"He was very logical, analytical," she said.

Seidler and Kalyn Masek, only a year apart in age, were "attached at the hip" growing up. When they were children, their families would go to Deep Creek Lake together, Kalyn Masek said, and the two of them would "cause trouble and get dirty" while playing hours on end.

Shy growing up, Seidler became an adventurous adult, she said. When they were young, she was always the one to bring him out of his shell. But after he joined the armed services, she said, he became the encouraging, outgoing one. On his Facebook page, where his father announced his death to friends and family, Seidler posted photos from trips he'd taken to Paris and New York and hiking and camping in the mountains. He also shared samples of his graphic design work and his preference for the Baltimore Ravens.

Seidler's parents and brother live in Westminster, Kalyn Masek said.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Mark Donnithorne, his squadron commander, said Seidler's role as an explosives disposal technician was vital to the operation.

"We will never forget Matt's sacrifice and dedication to his critical, yet dangerous, mission," he said.

"This is a tragic day for Team Pete, the 21st Space Wing, the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron and especially for Matt's family," Col. Chris Crawford, 21st Space Wing Commander, said in a statement Saturday. "We will come together to help Matt's family and friends through their grief."

Also killed were Senior Airman Bryan R. Bell, 23, of Erie, Pa., and Tech. Sgt. Matthew S. Schwartz, 34, of Traverse City, Mich.

By Steve Kilar, The Baltimore Sun
Baltimore Sun reporter Annie Linskey contributed to this article.

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May Almighty God Bless this Maryland Son.
May Almighty God comfort his family.
May Almighty God protect each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine.

Um...yeah... Happy New Year!

2012-01-08T10:33:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year, Peeps!

I've been in a complete decompress mode and have not even posted New Year wishes!

Hopefully, everyone enjoyed the Holiday Season and I do hope many warm memories were made. It is the time of year to let go of the icky and focus on blessings. So many of us know hard times, no room for comparisons... hard is hard and there is something about the Holidays which make a hard day, seem a gazillion times harder. But it is also the time to look around and feel truly loved.

Life is just funny like that. Not really a 'Ha Ha' funny...more like a quizzical funny. Our family was so blessed to share Christmas with Di and the E-Man. I held that little guy and just did not want to let him go...ever. It was as though I had stepped into a time machine...marching back 22 years to the day I held my littlest guy with the exact ears and hair and eyes. He (go ahead and fill in the blank with either name E-Man or John) would coo and gurgle and fall asleep in my arms. Love that!

Courtesy of Skype...we were able to take a family photo, which included John in Kuwait! Rather cool, huh? Looking back I now wish we had skyped B & V2 on another laptop to include them as well. Arrgghhh... Old-Lady Brain! (always comes up with the best ideas-two weeks after the fact!)

I am rather proud of myself... only one meltdown on Christmas! I led the family in prayer before we ate...and totally lost it as I lifted John in my prayer. Please understand...I am so proud of my son, but in my heart.. he should have been here to hold his son on the little guy's first Christmas. Next year...

Well...this is a totally scrambled post. Yep, I'm pondering whether or not to delete it or go ahead and post. Truth is... being AirmanMom has me feeling like Vegetable Soup of Emotions more often than not.... John's deployment is going well, for this I am grateful. He has received 'Jr Tech Squadron Airman of the Year'...I am so very proud of his accomplishments! Di and E-man are plugging along...good days and not so good days-for this I pray for strength. Our Nation has so many houses on so many streets, filled with families waiting for deployed ones to return home... for this I pray for peace. Operation Welcome Home welcomes our heroes as they land on U.S. soil...for these volunteers I am so very grateful. The USO is there for our Troops...always! Their dedication is so appreciated.

I'll close these jumbled words for now...decompress a little more and post some photos soon!

May Almighty God protect each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine.
May Almighty God comfort families who have lost loved ones.
May Almighty God make the days lighter for those who have deployed family members.
May Almighty God bring peace into our hearts.

Somebody's Son

2012-01-06T08:07:00.001-05:00

SANGIN, Afghanistan (Dec. 27, 2011) Hospitalman Victor Castro, assigned to India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 8, hands out candy to an Afghan child during a security patrol in Sangin, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Marines conducted the patrol to help maintain security in the surrounding areas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Armando Mendoza/Released)
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 01/04/2012

2012-01-04T08:17:00.000-05:00

1st Lt. Loren Douglas Hagen
25 years old from Fargo, North Dakota
U.S. Army Training Advisory Group
February 25, 1946 - August 7, 1971

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Loren Douglas Hagen, United States Army (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as the team leader of a small reconnaissance team with the U.S. Army Training Advisory Group, in action against enemy aggressor forces while operating deep within enemy-held territory in the Republic of Vietnam, on 7 August 1971. At approximately 0630 hours on the morning of 7 August 1971 the small team came under a fierce assault by a superior-sized enemy force using heavy small arms, automatic weapons, mortar, and rocket fire. First Lieutenant Hagen immediately began returning small-arms fire upon the attackers and successfully led this team in repelling the first enemy onslaught. He then quickly deployed his men into more strategic defense locations before the enemy struck again in an attempt to overrun and annihilate the beleaguered team's members. First Lieutenant Hagen repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire directed at him as he constantly moved about the team's perimeter, directing fire, rallying the members, and resupplying the team with ammunition, while courageously returning small arms and hand grenade fire in a valorous attempt to repel the advancing enemy force. The courageous actions and expert leadership abilities of First Lieutenant Hagen were a great source of inspiration and instilled confidence in the team members. After observing an enemy rocket make a direct hit on and destroy one of the team's bunkers, First Lieutenant Hagen moved toward the wrecked bunker in search for team members despite the fact that the enemy force now controlled the bunker area. With total disregard for his own personal safety, he crawled through the enemy fire while returning small-arms fire upon the enemy force. Undaunted by the enemy rockets and grenades impacting all around him, First Lieutenant Hagen desperately advanced upon the destroyed bunker until he was fatally wounded by enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Hagen's courageous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty, at the cost of his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon him and the United States Army.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Christmas, Twenty-Eleven

2011-12-25T10:47:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Our family, like many will have an empty chair at our Christmas dinner table. John is spending Christmas in a country, where he is not permitted to celebrate the birth of our Savior. So many of our Troops will be far from family and friends on Christmas Day, please join me in prayer for them.

My heart is filled with gratitude for all warriors who have made huge sacrifices for generations!

Merry Christmas!
(please pause my playslist on the right sidebar)

Somebody's Son

2011-12-23T07:01:00.000-05:00

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Blake Landry, a 374th Airlift Wing loadmaster, gazes out of a U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft checking to make sure the pallet that was just pushed reached the island safely Dec. 12, 2011. Operation Christmas Drop will deliver care packages to more than 50 islands within the Micronesian States during the next two weeks. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Carlin Leslie)
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold

2011-12-21T06:23:00.003-05:00

Maj. Samuel M. Griffith, 36, of Virginia Beach, Virginia

A Marine Reservist, killed in action in Afghanistan. He is the 1857th Troop to die in Afghanistan since 2001.

1857 families will look at an empty chair this Christmas.

Griffith's mother said her son had a passion to serve his country and his community. "He was doing what he loved. That was his gift. That was his passion," she said.

Sam Griffith's hometown is Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, near Camp LeJuene, where his father still lives. Sam was an Eagle Scout who grew up dreaming of becoming an astronaut, and going to flight school and being a military pilot. He graduated from Enloe High School in Raleigh in 1993, and joined the Naval ROTC program at Penn State University.

When Sam Griffith graduated from Penn State in 1997, he was commissioned in the Marine Corps, where he trained as a pilot. He met his future wife, Cassandra, as a student at Penn State University. They married shortly after he returned from flight school Pensacola.

Maj. Griffith flew F-18s with All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533 based in Beaufort, S.C., and also worked as an instructor for forward air controllers. Griffith was promoted to the rank of major in 2009. He deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan while on active duty.

Maj. Griffith received a series of awards and decorations, including two Air Medals and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. About two years ago, he became an inactive reservist in the Forward Air Control Unit for 4th Anglico.

Major Griffith arrived in Afghanistan less than a month ago with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He volunteered earlier this year to go to Afghanistan as a forward air controller, identifying enemy targets and calling in aircraft. He was one of 17 members from his 230 member Marine Reserve unit deployed in Afghanistan.

He leaves a wife and two sons.

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May Almighty God Bless this brave warrior.
May Almighty God bring comfort to his family and friends.
May Almighty God protect all who serve.

Monday Update...

2011-12-19T06:46:00.002-05:00

A quick, 'Hello' to all my peeps!

It's been a zany several weeks. I am beyond exhausted, working 6 days/week... many of those days have been 10 & 11 hour work-days. But it is all good! I have a job which I truly enjoy, with a team of fun and energetic people! Where else can you wear jeans, Uggs and a Santa hat...and get paid? Funny story... last weekend (our busiest weekend) we had a bit of a lull in the shop, so the elf I work with ran off to her lunch break. A customer steps up with approx a dozen ornaments...she placed them all on the counter to decide which she wanted. A second customer stepped up, so #1 decided she had better hurry her decision process. So I begin to ring up her sale...at this point #3 is now in line. I glance at the computer screen...duh. nothing scanned! Had to start all over! So we quickly removed all ornaments from the pretty tissue and I re-rang the order, with #5 now in line. I get on my radio, to call in for some help... no reply. So...#1 begins to sing, 'Hark the Herald Angels'...and every visitor sang along! No grumpiness! No impatience! True Christmas Spirit!
One more Christmas Spirit story.... I am so grateful the owner of Good Earth is kind enough to allow our customers to donate gifts, which I mail to our Soldiers! This year, we once again gathered over a dozen boxes of items, which I packaged up and took to the Post Office. I was trying to quickly unload my Wrangler of boxes and the clerk at the Post Office desk asked for the custom forms. I dug into my bag and handed her the forms...of course the line was building behind me! A little while later an elderly gent approached me and told me he thought I lost something... He handed me a $100 bill, which I had in my bag and must have fallen out while I was rustling with boxes and forms. All in the Post Office cheered and wished each other a Merry Christmas. I was grateful he returned the money to me, it had been donated to offset shipping costs!!!
So... the moral of this post: Be kind to each other. Give without expecting to receive. Sing a Christmas Carol when you feel a little stressed. Take a deep breath and enjoy all of the little things our world has to offer. Yes, times are hard and people appear ugly... but if only one person at a time, showed gentleness and kindness...we could change it all.

Wednesday Hero 12/14/2011

2011-12-14T07:58:00.001-05:00

Click Image For Full Size

Marguerite Gene Arenesen (left) a member of the Coast Guard in World War II, George Warren (standing), a Canadian-born immigrant who became a naturalized American citizen at age 17 and joined the Army Air Corps shortly after the Dec. 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor and Thomas M. Sugg, a Navy veteran, share a moment in front of a Christmas tree at the Veterans Home in Barstow, California.

Photo Courtesy United States Marine Corps Taken By Keith Hayes

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Warm thanks to Christopher Lee for his dedication to our Troops!

Somebody's Son

2011-12-09T00:07:00.000-05:00

ARABIAN GULF (Dec. 3, 2011) Seaman James Odell stands watch as an EA-6B Prowler from the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 flies above the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Will Tyndall/Released)
Source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 12/07/2011

2011-12-07T00:15:00.000-05:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Mrs Xoke

Sgt. 1st Class Bryan E. Hall
32 years old from Elk Grove, California 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division April 10, 2009

Bryan Hall received three Army commendation medals, as well as good
Army achievement, good conduct and war on terrorism medals. But his
family didn't learn about them until after his death. "He was such a
humble man," said his mother, Betty. "He was a special person, he
never boasted about his accomplishments or was arrogant and pompous,
he did his job," his sister, Kristi, said. "When he was done with his
job, he came home and he was a father, a husband, a son and a brother.
He embodied what I think every soldier would want to be."

Sgt. 1st Class Hall was a junior in High School when he signed up for
an Army early entry program. After he graduated he attended one year
of college before enlisting.

Bryan Hall, and five other soldiers, was killed on April 10, 2009 when
a suicide bomber detonated a truck packed with explosives at a police
station in Mosul, Iraq. Betty Hall said an Army commander told her
that by ordering his soldiers to fire on the suicide bomber's truck,
her son probably saved many lives by preventing the attacker from
entering the police compound.

You can read more about Sgt. 1st Class Bryan Hall here.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so
others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them
Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more
information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on
your site, you can go here.

Happy Birthday, Sarge!!!

2011-12-05T06:12:00.002-05:00

"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave."
~ Elmer Davis
Please stop by and wish one of our finest, Sarge Charlie a very Happy Birthday!!!

Somebody's Son

2011-12-02T06:10:00.002-05:00

SAN DIEGO (Nov. 30, 2011) The son of Electrician's Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Randall White, assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), waves to his father's ship as it transits San Diego Bay after departing Naval Air Station North Island on a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Trevor Welsh/Released)
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have family and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 11/30/2011

2011-11-30T05:27:00.001-05:00

Spc. Joseph A. Graves
21 years old from Discovery Bay, California
110th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade
July 26, 2006

Spc. Joseph Graves's dream was to work for the FBI and he saw that joining the Military was a way to help me do that. Joseph Graves enlisted in the Army at 17 and surprised his family when he went to jump school soon afterwards. "This was a kid I could hardly get to ski down a ski slope, because it was too intimidating," said his father, Kevin. "And now he's jumping out of airplanes." Spc. Graves was the lone casualty when his convoy was attacked by insurgents near Baghdad on July 26, 2006.

You can read more about Spc. Graves here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Talking Tuesday

2011-11-29T00:18:00.000-05:00

First of all, thank you for the feedback on my Blog.
I updated to Internet Explorer 9, then reverted back to IE8...still having issues.
It appears it is a blogger issue.... if you scroll to the bottom of this Blog, you will find my right side bar found a new home at the bottom of the Blog. Not sure about you folks, but this does not work for me. I'm trying to mend...please stay tuned! (of course if you can help with a resolution, I would welcome comments!)

So now, let's chat about the important stuff. It's the Holiday Season already... not sure where Twenty-Eleven went, but it is as good as gone! These next few weeks will fly by, I'm certain of it. We are so busy; shopping and baking and visiting... Hours quickly turn to days, and days quickly turn to weeks.

And then there is the Soldier... far from home.

Our family knows first hand, the 'Vegetable Soup of Emotion' having a loved one Serving our Nation overseas during this joyous time of year. Oh yes, we are proud of John... but pride does not eliminate emptiness. And I'm talking about those of us in the comfort of our homes, living out our routine lives. I pray for my son constantly, and I constantly lift prayers for his wife...going through these days, weeks and months watching their little guy growing up... it is just tough some days. As I have said before, we are only one family. Thousands of families know our hearts.

I wanted to share with you three of my most highly regarded organizations:

USO has been supporting our Troops since 1941. Ask any Soldier who has traveled through an Airport, about the USO... they have been there for our Service Members for decades, and I will do what I can to support them to make certain they remain active in the future.

SoldiersAngels motto "May No Soldier Go Unloved". What better way to celebrate this Season of Giving, than to adopt a Soldier and send a package full of cheer. I've been an Angel for several years, I encourage you to take a few moments and sign up to become an Angel.

Wounded Warriors Project is all about helping our Warriors who return home injured. This group began with some veterans supplying comfort items for wounded Soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan...they now assist with transitioning back to civilian life as well.

"No one has ever become poor by giving."
Anne Frank

I've only named a few amazing organizations...I'd like to hear your most respected groups.

Your turn........................

Manic Monday...

2011-11-28T06:29:00.003-05:00

Not quite sure what has happened to the layout of my blog...
on my laptop, the entire right sidebar has vanished.

What do you see?

I'll be back tomorrow with a 'Talking Tuesday'!

May Almighty God protect all who are serving our Country...stateside and so far from home.

Love you, John.

Wednesday Hero 11/23/2011

2011-11-23T05:50:00.001-05:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Kathi

Wreaths Across America has been profiled before and it will probably be profiled again because they are a great organization.

Wreaths Across America was profiled last year and it will probably be profiled again next year because they are a great organization. For 20 years they have have laid Christmas wreaths on the headstones of our fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. And this year, for their 20th year, their goal is to lay a wreath on every headstone, all 220,000, and they need our help. Head over to Help Wreaths Across America Cover Arlington and there you can find information on how you can do that. Whether it's via a donation or just getting the word out, anything we can do helps.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Thanksgiving Blessings...

2011-11-22T06:52:00.002-05:00

Ah yes... I post that I am taking off for Vegas to witness my son's wedding, then I evaporate. OK... I'll fess up. I'm drowning in the sorrow of leaving three bones in the Casino. Yep, played the Penny Slots and lost it all (that is all I bet!)

But on to happier memories of the weekend... the wedding was fabulous! B was dashing and V was stunning! It was a beautiful ceremony at the Chapel in the Clouds (top of the Stratosphere which is the tallest building in Vegas and fifth largest building in North America). A group of us saw Phantom of the Opera...oh. my. goodness. Pure awesomeness! My daughter, K and I were able to get our photo taken with Elvis...actually it was Elvis Squared. Two Elvises who spoke little English and did not realize Maryland was a State. We were happy to provide a public service and geography lesson. Oh, and yes we did stand in front of a foam Las Vegas sign! Good memories! Sadly, Marie and John were not there... I wish B & V a lifetime of laughter, good health and much happiness!

May God richly bless this beautiful couple.

May they always keep a 'fun factor' in their marriage!

More blessings... not sure if I have mentioned that K is expecting #4!!! Our newest grandbaby will arrive around May 9th. Precious and Bright-Eyed-Beauty are calling the newest member of their family, Skittle. I ask that you keep our Skittle in your prayers!

Special prayer request...Di has a family member with serious health issues. The plan for now is Di and E-Man will join us for Christmas, however if she is needed elsewhere with family... we will pray for God's will. Di returns to work next week. E-Man is growing like a weed. Oh, how I miss this little guy. He looks exactly like a baby I snuggled only 22 years ago!

Over the next several weeks, I may evaporate, reappear, evaporate, etc. The Garden Center where I work, has made some big changes. They let our manager go. Um, go ahead... gulp with me. I pray for her and her daughter (who also is no longer with the company)during this difficult chapter of their lives. Times are tough, and none of us are exempt from hardships these days. So, being down two valuable members of the team, it will mean a bit of craziness... things always have a way of working out. On a brighter note, I am grateful the owner has allowed us to once again set up donation boxes for our 3rd Annual Soldier Drive. So far, the response has been overwhelming! And yes...I do have a box set up for my son, who will spend Christmas far away from home.

All is well with Marie and her new little guy. She will return to work after Black Friday...um, I mean Thanksgiving. Yep, my girls and I will keep our tradition and tackle our fellow maniacs at 1am on Black Friday. My Christmas shopping will be complete, by the time I return home.... except for a bit more online shopping. Of course we will cap the adventure off with a visit to IHOP... I NEED Pumpkin Pancakes! Anyone else partaking in the Madness????

There you have it...a synopsis of AirmanMom's life. I am richly blessed. Most days are very good. Some days make my heart hurt, when I think of my son so far from home...missing his son's first Thanksgiving and Christmas. When my heart feels heavy, I think back to when John told me he was deploying soon after his son's birth... "it's why I put my boots on".

Oh Dear God in Heaven, protect my son. Touch his heart with tenderness, console him in his difficult moments. John is far braver than I.

May Almighty God Bless each of you and your families during the Holiday Season.

May Almighty God protect all who are serving our Nation... far from home and stateside. It is with a thankful heart, I pray for each of them.

Wednesday Hero 11/16/2011

2011-11-16T05:59:00.000-05:00

Sgt. Kevin Stewart(Left) & Spc. David Duque(Right)

Sgt. Kevin Stewart, left, congratulates Spc. David Duque on his becoming a U.S. citizen in a ceremony at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 9. Duque is a native of Cuba. Both soldiers are members of Company E, Forward Support Element, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

Photo Courtesy U.S. Army Taken By Capt. Christopher Larsen

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Vegas Wedding!

2011-11-07T06:36:00.003-05:00

Sing along....

Going to the Chapel (in the Sky)
gonna get married (to the most adorable girl)
Going to the Chapel (on 11/11/11)
gonna get married (to the neatest guy on this planet)
Gee, I really love them and
They're gonna get married
Going to the Chapel in the Sky!

AirmanMom has a heart full of love and warm wishes for my B and his girl, V.
V, we welcome you to our family. May the two of you be showered with all of God's richest blessings.

Yep.... we're going to Vegas Baby!

So Thankful!

2011-11-06T17:20:00.002-05:00

Every once in a while I am simply blown away... when I stop to think of how many blessings God has showered over me.

I am married to my best friend. After all these years, our favorite way to pass our time is to talk. We talk about everything and nothing. He is my rock. I could not ask for more.

I am Momma to four of the most amazing people in this world. Truly, I like my kids. If they were not mine, I would try to adopt them. Each of them are loving, kind, hard working, dedicated, God loving, respectful, witty...oh I could go on and on. Each of them hold gigantic chunks of my heart. I am who I am, because I am their mom.

I am Nana to six of the most precious babies you have ever seen on this earth. God has this awesome plan, for me to be a young mom...therefore making me a young Nana. Sitting on the floor reading books, or building with blocks, or swaddling baby dolls or pretending to drive a car or fly in an airplane... stepping into their imaginary world is pure awesomeness. Honestly, to look in the eyes of your child's eyes is one of God's sweetest of all gifts.

I am a mom-in-law to four (ok...the wedding is on Friday so I am pushing it a bit) really cool people. My son-in-laws love my daughters and are such good providers for their families. These guys have a great sense of humor! My daughter-in-laws are everything I could wish for my sons. Both my guys have chosen brides who are not only beautiful... but talented, funny and oh how my guys love their brides!

I have several good friends, who have known me forever...seen me at my best and at my worst... these girls are still a phone call away. We can laugh together, cry together and talk for hours endlessly.

I have a nice home, a reliable vehicle, an adorable Mutt and a job I enjoy. Yep...there is stuff. But honestly... The stuff could evaporate and I would still be the richest woman in the world.

This post needed to be written... I won't take my life for granted. It is a gift to have so much love to give and to receive so much love. I am blessed.

Somebody's Son

2011-11-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

An Airman and Soldier secure an area near the Tarnek River in Qalat City, Afghanistan.

source: popularmilitary.com

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold

2011-11-03T06:49:00.003-04:00

HOUSTON — A solider from Houston with extensive experience in the mental health field died Saturday while serving in Afghanistan, the Department of Defense said.

Lt. Col. David E. Cabrera, 41, died less than a month after being deployed after a suicide bomb attack on the United Nations convoy he was riding with in Kabul, according to Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

Cabrera graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1988 and graduated from Texas A&M with a bachelor's degree in psychology in 1992. He then worked in family counseling and at different facilities in Giddings, Texas, and in Arlington, Texas.

In 1994, Cabrera earned his master's degree in social work from UT Arlington and then worked as a delinquency case management counselor for the state of Florida. He worked as a family therapist to underprivileged children and families in Palm Beach County.

Two years later, he joined the U.S. Army as a medical service corps officer and was deployed for nearly a year at the chief of Mental Health for Operation Joint Endeavor/Joint Guard in Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia. He later served as chief of the Family Advocacy Program at Wurzburg Army Hospital in Germany.

After his deployment, Cabrera served at a military prison in Fort Lewis, Wa., and at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

In 2004, he entered a PhD program in social work at Catholic University and was later assigned to manage the behavioral health and combat operational stress programs for more than 4,500 soldiers at Fort Lewis.

After finishing his degree in 2006, Cabrera was deployed to Iraq for five months. He returned to Fort Lewis and was then transferred to Heidelberg, Germany, where he ran several mental health support programs.

In January 2010, he left Heidelberg to join the faculty of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md., as the director of social work. There he saw patients, taught third- and fourth-year military medical students, conducted research in the fields of resilience, post-traumatic stress disorder and post-traumatic growth, and participated in a number of university field training exercises.

He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on Sept. 1, 2011, in a small ceremony at USU, surrounded by his family, friends and close colleagues.

"Lt. Col. Cabrera was a soldier's soldier. He was professionally happiest when in the field with his troops. His sense of service, love of God, family and country are an inspiration to us all," said Navy Capt. Dr. Mark Stephens, who was Cabrera's boss as chair of the USU Department of Family Medicine.

Sgt. James M. Darrough, 38, of Austin, was also killed in the same attack. Darrough was assigned to the 101st Finance Company, 101st Special Troops Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade and 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) out of Fort Campbell, Ky.

Sgt. Carlo F. Eugenio, 29, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., and Staff Sgt. Christopher R. Newman, 26, of Shelby, N.C., also died in the attack.

Source: Click2Houston.com

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AirmanMom was asked by a friend to post the story of this brave Soldier. He is the husband of the friend of a friend, who had been stationed at Walter Reed to counsel wounded warriors returning from Afghanistan & Iraq. He was deployed to be part of a unit that was to travel by convoy between units & he was going to do similar counseling there. My Boss and I were talking of Lt. Col Cabrera, and Mr. B. mentioned that his daughter had been to a birthday party this past weekend with one of David Cabrera's young children. Such sadness.

May Almighty God Bless this brave Warrior who served his Nation proudly.
May Almighty God comfort his family and friends.

Wednesday Hero 11/02/2011

2011-11-02T06:13:00.002-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Beth & Cindy

1st Lt. Ashley White, Sgt. First Class Kristoffer B. Domeij & Pfc. Christopher Horns
October 22, 2011

On Saturday, October 22, 2011, three United States Soldiers were killed in Kandahar, Afghanistan. They were 1st Lt. Ashley White, 24, 230th Brigade Support Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, North Carolina National Guard; Sgt. First Class Kristoffer B. Domeij, 29; and Pfc. Christopher Horns, 20, both with 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Too many...
Too young...

Thank you, Christopher Lee for keeping our Heroes in the hearts and mind of all.

Introducing.... Di's Blog

2011-10-31T00:06:00.002-04:00

As so many of you know by now... John was married earlier this year to Di. She is as cute as a button, a strong Christian, an Airman... and oh how she loves my son. What more could AirmanMom ask for in a D-I-L? Well...she gave me one more thing...a perfect grandboy. E-Man is every bit as handsome as his Daddy and appreciates good music, when he hears his Mommy sing. God richly blessed John and Di, when he chose them as this little guy's parents. God also had a plan, when it was time for John to deploy and leave his wife and eight day old baby at home. Granted, we mere mortals don't always understand the hows or whys... this is where our faith enters. We need to trust that God will guide us through our trials... To me, this does not mean we sit back and let God do all the work, we must face our challenges and work through them. God will give us the strength we need, I believe this.

So...where is this post going? I ask that you take a few moments and read Di's Blog. She has so many gifts...singing, writing and being a good mommy to my grandboy! Please continue to lift this precious family in your prayers. Please keep all our Warriors who are so far from home,in your prayers...along with their families. As so many of you know first hand, Military is not an easy life. Yes, it is a choice to sacrifice a 'normal' world to serve our Nation... I for one am so grateful for those who make this choice.

Please stop byMamaWifeAirman and share your words of encouragement.

May Almighty God watch over my son while he serves.
May Almighty God give Di the strength she needs to be the best wife and mommy during these days of trial.
May Almighty God place His loving hands on all who serve and the families who love them so.

Afghan Bombing Kills 5 Troops

2011-10-30T17:48:00.002-04:00

A Taliban suicide bomber rammed a vehicle into an armored NATO bus Saturday, killing 17 people, including 12 Americans and a Canadian in the deadliest attack on the U.S.-led coalition in Kabul since the war began.
Read the entire story HERE.

May Almighty God bless these brave warriors.
May Almighty God comfort their families.

F-16 Dawn

2011-10-29T06:23:00.001-04:00

Three F-16 Fighting Falcons taxi for takeoff Oct. 15, 2011, at Buckley Air Force Base Colo., during an operational readiness exercise. The ORE evaluated Airmen with mission readiness in preparation for real-world deployments.
(U.S. Air Force photo/Wolfram M. Stumpf)

Somebody's Son

2011-10-28T13:18:00.001-04:00

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 25, 2011) Musician 1st Class Chris Sams of the U.S. 7th Fleet Band, Orient Express, performs for students during a master class at Wat Koh High School. The band is visiting Cambodia as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2011. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Musician 3rd Class Joshua Haney/Released) Source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 10/26/2011

2011-10-26T00:11:00.000-04:00

Sgt. James Hinson

Sgt. James Hinson, Marine Barracks Washington motor transportation operator, prepares a dish for a homeless person during a So Others Might Eat volunteer event in northwest Washington, D.C., Oct. 20, 2011. Fifteen Barracks Marines volunteered to assist the SOME staff in feeding homeless men and women from the nation's capitol region.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thank you, Christopher Lee for all your efforts to make certain our Heroes are nevr forgotten.

C'Mon Airlines...Get With the Program!

2011-10-24T07:55:00.001-04:00

After a year in Afghanistan, 25 Fort Bliss Soldiers struggled with an airline to get back home.

The group had flown into Baltimore, Md., Friday evening, but on Saturday when they went to check in their luggage and weapons at the Baltimore Washington International Airport, a Delta Airlines weight policy threatened to keep them on the ground.

"They were told [by airline officials] that because of the weight of the weapons, they could not be checked in," said Capt. Aaron Poe. "The Soldiers were then told they could check them in separately on another flight. But the Soldiers didn't feel comfortable doing that."

Each box weighed about 100 pounds, which was considered to be above the weight standards allowed by the airlines.

According to Delta Airlines policy, active-duty U.S. military personnel on orders to or from duty stations may check the following without charge:

-- Up to four bags in the economy class in all cabins on Delta connection flights

-- Up to five bags in business elite, first and business class on Delta aircraft only.

Each bag may weight up to 70 pounds. In addition, active military personnel traveling on personal business may check up to two 50-pound bags at no charge.

Passengers with bags that weigh more than 70 pounds are charged $175 a bag.

"Our weight policy was recently changed to accommodate members of the military personnel," said Joe Perone, spokesman for the airlines. "And after checking with the Baltimore Washington International Airport, all military baggage was checked in."

But Capt. Poe and Capt. Waldo Galan said it took officials several hours to work with the Delta Airlines Military Liaison to get the group home.

"They basically told us it is what it is and weren't giving us many options," Poe said. "In the end, the majority of our Soldiers were allowed to check in and board onto their plane while a lieutenant stayed behind and got on the next flight with the weapons. He ended up having to go to a Home Depot to buy another box so that he could distribute the weight evenly. And then he was charged a nominal fee of $500 to check in the boxes."

Officials with Delta Airlines said that there were no issues, that no baggage was left behind in Baltimore and that everything was transported.

All 25 Soldiers -- and the weapons -- were scheduled to arrive at 8:30 p.m. on different flights Saturday at the El Paso International Airport.

October 24, 2011
El Paso Times|by Alex Hinojosa

Wednesday Hero 10/19/2011

2011-10-20T07:25:00.001-04:00

Lt.Richard Biedermann (Ret.)
89 years old from Tulsa, Oklahoma
May 28, 1922 - October 3, 2011

When Dick Biedermann asked the organizing committee of the Oklahoma Honor Flights how much more was needed to be raised he was told $10,000. His response was "Piece of cake. I can raise that". And in only four weeks he did just that. In fact, he raised $16,000 and in doing so was able to help send 105 of his fellow WWII veterans to D.C. to see the national WWII Memorial back in February of this year. He was scheduled to go with them but he had taken a fall the week before and was unable to go. But this was nothing new for the retired Naval Lieutenant. He was always helping others. The Ronald McDonald House, the United Way, the Tulsa Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association and so on. He saw it as his mission.

Sadly, Richard (Dick) Biedermann passed away on October 3 after a long battle with heart disease. He was buried on October 6 with full military honors by the VFW and Patriot Guard Riders.

You can read more about Dick Biedermann here and view his obituary here.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thnak you Christopher Lee for your dedication to our Troops.

John is Safe!!!

2011-10-17T16:46:00.002-04:00

Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
1 Chronicles 16:8

Words for all Deployed...

2011-10-15T19:02:00.003-04:00

My country,' tis of thee,
sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing;
land where my fathers died,
land of the pilgrims' pride,
from every mountainside let freedom ring!

My native country, thee,
land of the noble free, thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
thy woods and templed hills;
my heart with rapture thrills, like that above.

Let music swell the breeze,
and ring from all the trees sweet freedom's song;
let mortal tongues awake;
let all that breathe partake;
let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.

Our fathers' God, to thee,
author of liberty, to thee we sing;
long may our land be bright
with freedom's holy light;
protect us by thy might, great God, our King.

Samuel F. Smith

Somebody's Son

2011-10-14T08:26:00.002-04:00

My youngest grandboy, in John's shirt.

John, I love you with all my heart.
I love Di and your son with all my heart.

GodSpeed, John.

(special thanks to Amy for this amazing photo)

Yellow Ribbon...

2011-10-13T05:51:00.003-04:00

AirmanMom's home proudly waves an American Flag every day.

AirmanMom's American Flag will now be tied with a Yellow Ribbon for the next six months.

May Almighty God protect my son, while he is so far from home.
May Almighty God give strength to his wife, during this challenging time.
May Almighty God watch over their sweet boy.
May Almighty God give this proud Momma a peaceful heart.

Wednesday Hero 10/12/2011

2011-10-12T00:06:00.000-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Cindy

Capt. Theodore "Ted" Williams (Center)
83 years old from Inverness, Florida
VMF-311, Marine Aircraft Group 33 (MAG-33)
August 30, 1918 - July 5, 2002

Everyone knows Ted Williams as one of the greatest Baseball players of all time, but many may not know that he also served his country during W.W.II and Korea. Williams joined the V-5 program to became a Naval aviator after enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1942. He received his pilots wings two years later in 1944. He never saw action as Japan surrendered as he was in Pearl Harbor awaiting orders. He did, however, in the Marine Forces Reserves and was later recalled in to active duty during the Korean War. He flew 39 combat missions before being hospitalized with pneumonia which resulted in the discovery of an inner ear infection that ultimately disqualified him from flight status.

You Can Read More About Williams here and here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Two Grandboys in Two Days!!!

2011-10-11T06:15:00.004-04:00

I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made
~ Psalm 139:14 from NKJV

Please allow me to introduce the newest blessings in our family....

Coop was born on October 7, 2011. 8lbs. 12 oz. Sweet blessing!

E-man was born on October 8, 2011. 7 lbs. 6oz. Sweet blessing!

May Almighty God Bless these two healthy and beautiful boys.
May Almighty God give their parents strength through the long nights, and joy through the short days.

Wednesday Hero 10/05/2011

2011-10-05T05:59:00.001-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Steve

F/O Leland H. Pennington
24 years old from Alma Place, New York
332nd Fighter Group
1921 - April 21, 1945

Sadly, little is know about Flight Officer Leland Pennington's military career. He joined the Military sometime in 1941 or 1942. He became one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. Then in 1945, after a bombing run on the Attnang-Puchheim marshalling yard in Austria, F/O Pennington was lost after completing a successful escort mission.

You can read more about F/O Pennington here and here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Many thanks to Christopher Lee for his dedication to our Troops.

Somebody's Daughter

2011-09-30T06:44:00.002-04:00

Byrnes Michelle, a US army soldier from te HHB 3-7 Field Artillery Regiment 3rd Bct 25th ID, scans the eyes of an Afghan man with an Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) during a mission in Turkham Nangarhar bordering Pakistan on September 28, 2011. Turkham is a border crossing town in the Nangarhar province of Afghanistan and the Khyber Agency of Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas. A decade of fighting in Afghanistan has since snowballed into a huge effort involving around 130,000 foreign troops from dozens of countries, with the resilient Taliban using homemade bombs and guerrilla tactics in a bid to undermine the Afghan government and the NATO mission.

source: militaryphotos.net

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

American Soldier

2011-09-29T11:17:00.003-04:00

Thursday thought...
John deploys within the next few weeks.

Wednesday Hero 09/28/2011

2011-09-28T00:09:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Greta Perry & John Donovan

Second Lt. Perla Kimes

Second Lt. Perla Kimes has her bars of gold pinned on during a commissioning ceremony this summer at the Leader Development and Assessment Course on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

Photo Courtesy U.S. Army

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thanks to Christopher Lee for his continued support of our Troops!

Talking Tuesday

2011-09-27T13:21:00.003-04:00

Many, many times on this Blog I have mentioned Operation Welcome Home. The opportunity to shake the hands of our Warriors is an honor...which simply has no words. How I wish closer to Baltimore, so that I could attend these events weekly!!!

USO is one of the finest organizations ever! Between the support offered to our Soldiers at Airports and the Tours by entertainers for decades, which brighten the days of our Soldiers while they are in a War Zone. Pure awesomeness!!!

The organization which has captured my attention most recently is Wounded Warrior Project. The stories of our wounded heroes is absolutely heartbreaking. To know there is a group of dedicated people who choose to make a difference in the lives of those who have paid such a huge price, for our freedoms.... wow!

Yes...I know there are oodles of groups which serve our Military well. Please share the name and link of such an organization!

Your turn.........................

Gold Star Mother's Day, September 25, 2011

2011-09-25T10:01:00.002-04:00

A Gold Star Mother is any American woman who has lost a son or daughter in service to the United States. By Presidential Proclamation to honor these Mothers, Gold Star Mother's Day is observed in the U.S. on the last Sunday in September each year.

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May Almighty God wrap His loving arms around these hurting women.
I lift thanks for the ultimate price made by their child, to our Nation.

Somebody's Son

2011-09-23T00:06:00.001-04:00

SGT. CALVIN NASH WAITS FOR THE DUST TO CLEAR - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Calvin Nash waits for the dust to clear after a controlled detonation during a patrol in Sangin, Afghanistan, on Sept. 8, 2011. The Marines are using the explosives to destroy abandoned compounds that block views from security posts. Nash is a squad leader with 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 8. DoD photo by Cpl. Nathan McCord, U.S. Marine Corps.

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 09/21/2011

2011-09-21T00:06:00.001-04:00

Sgt. Dakota Meyer
23 years old from Greensburg, Kentucky
Embedded Training Team 2-8

On September 15, Sgt. Dakota Meyer was awarded the Medal Of Honor by President Obama for his actions on Sept. 8, 2009 in the Ganjgal Valley of Afghanistan when he and Staff Sgt. Juan Rodriguez-Chavez saved 36 fellow Marines when they, and the Afghan military members they were helping to train, came under attack by Taliban insurgents.

His citation reads: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the repeated risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a member of Marine Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7, in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, on 8 September 2009. When the forward element of his combat team began to be hit by intense fire from roughly 50 Taliban insurgents dug-in and concealed on the slopes above Ganjgal village, Corporal Meyer mounted a gun-truck, enlisted a fellow Marine to drive, and raced to attack the ambushers and aid the trapped Marines and Afghan soldiers. During a six hour fire fight, Corporal Meyer single-handedly turned the tide of the battle, saved 36 Marines and soldiers and recovered the bodies of his fallen brothers. Four separate times he fought the kilometer up into the heart of a deadly U-shaped ambush. During the fight he killed at least eight Taliban, personally evacuated 12 friendly wounded, and provided cover for another 24 Marines and soldiers to escape likely death at the hands of a numerically superior and determined foe. On his first foray his lone vehicle drew machine gun, mortar, rocket grenade and small arms fire while he rescued five wounded soldiers. His second attack disrupted the enemy’s ambush and he evacuated four more wounded Marines. Switching to another gun-truck because his was too damaged they again sped in for a third time, and as turret gunner killed several Taliban attackers at point blank range and suppressed enemy fire so 24 Marines and soldiers could break-out. Despite being wounded, he made a fourth attack with three others to search for missing team members. Nearly surrounded and under heavy fire he dismounted the vehicle and searched house to house to recover the bodies of his fallen team members. By his extraordinary heroism, presence of mind amidst chaos and death, and unselfish devotion to his comrades in the face of great danger, Corporal Meyer reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service."

In addition to the Medal Of Honor, Sgt. Meyer has also been awarded the Expert Marksmanship Badge for Rifle and Pistol, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal w/ Valor Device and Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.

You can read more about Sgt. Dakota Meyer and his actions here.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Special thanks to Christopher Lee for sharing the story of this brave hero.

Some Days are Really Hard!!!

2011-09-19T00:07:00.001-04:00

Sunday afternoon, I spoke with John and Di. All is well with the little guy...he is due in three short weeks! Unfortunately, John's deployment date has been moved up.

While we chatted I could hear the anxiety in their voices. The doctor has assured them, the little guy will be delivered before John departs, so this is a really good thing. However, it was their hope to have a couple weeks together as a new family.

Some days are really hard to be a Mom. I tried to encourage them, by reminding them God has a plan and His plan is good. The little guy's birthday will be...when it will be.

John will fly through BWI...so there is a chance I can see him before he takes off. Oh dear God, I do pray this works out.

So often things are simply out of our control. Words are easy... actions are such a challenge some days.

I ask each of you to lift a prayer for this new family.

I pray Di knows an easy labor and delivery.
I pray my grandson is healthy and perfect.
I pray my son meets his son and has several days to bond with this gift from God.
I pray the days and weeks and months that John is deployed, everything goes well for Di and her new little boy.
I pray that I can offer the support Di needs, and that everyone prays for my son's protection.
I pray that Almighty God gives this Mom the strength needed to make it through another son's deployment.

Last year, while B was in Afghanistan...I listened to this song every single day.
I will be placing this CD back in my car...Six months is a long time.

Happy 64th Birthday, United States Air Force!!!

2011-09-18T08:57:00.004-04:00

Relentlessly committed to the defense of liberty, the United States Air Force celebrates its 64th birthday today, Sept. 18. The Air Force began life as the Army Air Corps but became a separate Armed Services Branch when the Department of the Air Force was created by the National Security Act of 1947. The U.S. Air Force continues its critical mission "to fly, fight and win ... in air, space and cyberspace."

Heartfelt thanks to both my Sons and my Daughter-in-Law who have chosen to serve in the United States Air Force. I am so very proud of you and love you so very much.

Warmest thanks to Chief, Shay, Curtis, Jazz, Leslie, Katrina, and Albert who also serve today as proud Airmen. My prayers remain constant for each of you.

Deepest thanks to Tim and Mike, who proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era. God loves you, America loves you and so do I.

Thank you to all who have chosen to serve in the United States Air Force in the past and today. We are a Great Nation because of our Amazing Warriors.

Somebody's Son

2011-09-16T00:03:00.001-04:00

Sgt. Ricardo Ramirez, a combat replacement for 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, wades through an irrigation canal to move into a night observation post in Sangin, Afghanistan, Aug. 5. In February of 2006, Ramirez was wounded in action while serving in Iraq with 3rd Bn., 5th Marines and two years later became the first hand-amputee to re-enlist in the Marines Corps. Since then the multiple-tour combat veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan has served as an urban warfare instructor, attended the pre-sniper course at division schools and stayed close to his infantry roots. Photo by Cpl. Benjamin Crilly
source: strategypage.com

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold

2011-09-15T09:49:00.003-04:00

FAIRBANKS — A 19-year-old Fort Wainwright soldier was killed Friday by an improvised explosive device while patrolling with his unit in Afghanistan, according to U.S. Army Alaska.

Pfc. Brett Everett Wood, 19, of Spencer, Ind., was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division as an infantryman. Next of kin have been notified.

Wood was killed and another soldier was injured Friday by the IED while his unit was on foot patrol, according to U.S. Army Alaska.

An Associated Press article reported Wood had only been back in Afghanistan for a few weeks after spending part of August at home recovering from a concussion he suffered in a previous bombing.

Wood and his 21-year-old brother, Nikk, enlisted in the Army and went to boot camp together in July 2010, after Brett Wood graduated from high school. He arrived in Alaska last November.

“He wanted to protect his family and his country and he really wanted to join after everything that happened with 9/11,” Wood’s sister, Amber Poland, told WTHR-TV.

The 4,000-soldier Stryker brigade deployed to Afghanistan in April for a one-year tour. The same brigade also had deployments to Iraq in 2005 and 2008.

Wood is the 12th soldier killed in combat since the Strykers began their latest deployment. They patrol three provinces in eastern Afghanistan.

source: newsminer.com

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May Almighty God Bless this brave Soldier.
May Almighty God comfort his family, friends and comrades.

Wednesday Hero 09/14/2011

2011-09-14T06:33:00.001-04:00

Seaman Sha'Quanda Jacobs

Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Sha'Quanda Jacobs rings the bell during commemoration ceremony of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States at Naval Air Station Oceana.

Photo Courtesy U.S. Navy Taken by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Terah L. Mollise

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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My warmest thanks to Christopher Lee for his constant dedication to our Troops.

September 12, 2011

2011-09-12T08:09:00.004-04:00

If only our Nation was filled with the same patriotism throughout the land, as ten years ago...

(photo source: visualphotos.net)

September 11, 2011

2011-09-11T14:55:00.004-04:00

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.

Somebody's Son

2011-09-09T00:18:00.000-04:00

Sgt. Alexander Hayne, 22, of Bellaire, Md. , with the U.S. Army's Bravo Company of the 25th Infantry Division, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Battalion 27th Infantry Regiment based in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, prepares to head out on a mission at dusk Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011 at Combat Outpost Monti in Kunar province, Afghanistan
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
This week's photo is a Maryland Son.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

Wednesday Hero 09/07/2011

2011-09-07T05:56:00.003-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Michael

Maj. Albert Brown
105 years old from Pinckneyville, Illinois
Oct. 26, 1905 - Aug. 14, 2011

At 105 years old, Albert Brown was the oldest living living survivor of the Bataan Death March.

In April of 1942, then Capt. Brown and 70,000+ American and Filipinos were marched 66 miles to POW camps on the Bataan peninsula in the Philippines with little food or water. Many were beaten and killed along the way and left where they fell. “One 18-year-old I knew, he fell down,” Mr. Brown said. “A guard came along and put a gun to his head, pulled the trigger and walked away.”

Capt. Brown spent 3 years as a POW where he was beaten; thrown down stairs, seriously injuring his back; and struck in the neck by a rifle butt, causing a fracture. When he was finally freed he weighed just 90 pounds. “We were listed in groups of 10. If one escaped out of the 10, they eliminated the rest of them, killed them. So, at night, just before roll call, you tried to find out if your 10 were still there.”

You can read more about Maj. Albert Brown here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thank you, Christopher Lee for acknowledgement of our Heroes.
Thank you, Mike for another excellent suggestion.

Talking Tuesday

2011-09-06T05:44:00.002-04:00

September 11th.

Ten Years Later.

Where were you on this dark day in American history?

What will you do to remember this somber occassion?

Your turn.................

September is Suicide Prevention Month

2011-09-04T08:49:00.002-04:00

Suicide.
Honestly, is there a more heartbreaking word in our language?
To stop and think of anyone hurting inside so much, they can't live another day.
To stop and think of loved ones left behind, wondering what could have/should have been done to help.
The suicide rate among our Service Members is outrageous. And these numbers are the 'known'! Imagine, the true numbers. Wrong on so many levels.

I'm only one Mom. I've battled my own demons in the past, which led me into a state of depression. Truly, I won't pretend to understand the depth of despair those who commit suicide...but I do understand what I call the 'dark cloud' which covers your entire life. My mild case of depression was enough to build a deep respect of the disease and its 'side effects'. Today, I know it is only by the Grace of God (along with the help of meds and a good Shrink) I did not fall into a deeper black hole.

Reach out. Speak up.

Suicide can be preventable. I have no answers...
I can offer words of caution to family members watching a loved one who may be living under their 'dark cloud'...reach out!
I can offer words of encouragement to those who find themselves trapped under a 'dark cloud'... speak up!

Here are a couple sites, well worth visiting:

health.mil
AFSP
SPRC
Suicidology.org

(Please pause PlayList on right sidebar)

Somebody's Son

2011-09-02T00:17:00.000-04:00

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. David Janossy, 57th Operations Support Squadron, survive evasion resistance escape specialist, uses his PRC-112 Survival Radio to contact fellow instructors during SERE Combat Survival Training on Area 2 located at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Aug. 24.
source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.
Let us not forget....

His Star Has Turned From Blue to Gold

2011-09-01T00:13:00.000-04:00

WATAUGA (CBSDFW.COM) – A son, a brother and a solider: Spc. Michael Roberts of Watagua died Saturday in Afghanistan.

“He wasn’t just another soldier who died, he loved and touched everyone,” brother Patrick Roberts said.

A call to serve was perhaps in the 23-year-old’s destiny, his family says. The solider from North Texas was the youngest of three brothers – all of whom enlisted in the Army. Eldest brother, Patrick Roberts, set the example his brother would follow.

“I see my little brother go from waiting tables at a local restaruant, to serving in the same Army I did,” Patrick Roberts said.

From a young age, Roberts demonstrated a dedication to contribute. He carried that spirit of service and eagerness to learn throughout this four-year military career, which was laced with earned accolades that include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

“He wanted to serve his country – contribute, make a big contribution to society and he felt by going into the army, he could do that,” mother Kathy Roberts said.

Roberts was serving in the Kandahar Province, assigned to the 561st Military Police Compnay when he died. He was struck by an improvised explosive device, an IED. Roberts was deployed to Afghanistan last month.

That was the last time his parents saw him.

“He was quite the man and he’ll be sorely missed,” father David Roberts said.

The fun-loving solider with a genuine heart and affinity for cooking is remembered as a humble leader; one whose legacy will live on in the lives he touched and leaves behind, they say.

“I’m going to continue to serve in honor of him,” middle brother Brian Roberts said. “I’m going to try to go as strong as he did. That’s the only way I know how to honor him.”

Roberts graduated from Richland High School in 2006. He was a part of the wrestling team and he played the tuba.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

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May Almighty God Bless this brave Soldier.
May God comfort his family, friends and comrades.

Wednesday Hero 08/31/2011

2011-08-31T05:33:00.002-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Kathi

Russell E. Tucker Sr.
72 years old from Buffalo, New York
1899? - 1971

Seven years shy of a century later, Russell E. Tucker Sr. got his due Friday at a ceremony where he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds he suffered as a Marine in World War I.

In June of 1918 Russel Tucker and his fellow Marines marched into German machine gun fire in Belleau, France and drove the enemy back. Russel, then only 19-years-old, was shot in the temple and in the right hand losing part of his knuckle on his index finger. But because there was no such award as the Purple Hart at the time it's taken almost a century for it to finally be awarded.

You can read more about Russel Tucker, Sr. here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thank you, Christopher Lee for your dedication to our Troops.

Irene...

2011-08-27T08:02:00.002-04:00

Lifting prayers for all in the path of Irene.
For those of you along the East Coast, stay safe!
Please check in and let me know you are safe!

Somebody's Son

2011-08-26T09:01:00.002-04:00

U.S. Army soldier from Bravo Company 2nd battalion 27th infantry regiment, Task Forces Bronco prepares to move for his overnight mission in FOB Bostick in eastern Afghanistan Naray district, Kunar province August 25, 2011
source: militaryphotos.net
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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

Time and Time Again!

2011-08-25T10:51:00.002-04:00

Many times, I've mentioned Operation Welcome Home on AirmanMom... honestly I can't share enough what an honor it is to welcome home, to shake the hands and to say 'Thank You' to those who serve our Nation. These brave men and women (and their families) sacrifice so much for us. The very least we can do is show our gratitude when they return home. Thank goodness for those who organize OWH, and who faithfully meet these flights. I wish I lived closer...I'd attend every single event! I'll be there on Friday...so humbled to greet our Warriors!

(please pause my PlayList on the right sidebar)

Wednesday Hero 08/24/2011

2011-08-24T05:39:00.002-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Michael Golch

RMC Thomas James Reeves
46 years old from Thomaston, Connecticut
December 9, 1895 - December 7, 1941

On December 7, 1941, Radioman, Chief Thomas Reeves was aboard the U.S.S. California. During the attack he helped load the anti-aircraft ammo, by hand, until he was overcome by smoke and fire. For his actions that day RMC Reeves was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

His citation reads: "For distinguished conduct in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage and disregard of his own safety during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor, by Japanese forces on 7 December 1941. After the mechanized ammunition hoists were put out of action in the U.S.S. California, Reeves, on his own initiative, in a burning passageway, assisted in the maintenance of an ammunition supply by hand to the antiaircraft guns until he was overcome by smoke and fire, which resulted in his death." In 1943 the destroyer escort USS Reeves was named in his honor.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My warm thanks to Christopher Lee's dedication to our Heroes!
p.s. Happy Birthday, Chris!
Also... a shout out to Mike Golch for suggesting this post!
Nice job, Gentlemen.

Sometimes... There is No Need for Words

2011-08-23T06:01:00.003-04:00

During Navy Seal Jon Tumilson's funeral, his trusted canine friend Hawkeye guarded him one last time. Petty Officer Tumilson was one of thirty killed in Afghanistan on August 6, 2011.

Somebody's Son

2011-08-19T00:17:00.000-04:00

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 16, 2011) Aviation Survival Equipmentman Airman Rashard C. Lovelace lifts weights in the hangar bay aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman K. Cecelia Engrums/Released)

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.
Let us not forget....

Thirty Fallen Soldiers

2011-08-18T11:43:00.001-04:00

No words.
Their faces say it all.

Wednesday Hero 08/17/2011

2011-08-17T00:02:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, August 6th, a CH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down over Wardak province, Afghanistan killing 30 United States servicemen. It was the largest single day loss of life since the war began. Killed were:

U.S. Navy

Lt. Cmdr. (SEAL) Jonas B. Kelsall, 32, of Shreveport, La.

Special Warfare Operator Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Louis J.
Langlais, 44, of Santa Barbara, Calif.

Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas A.
Ratzlaff, 34, of Green Forest, Ark.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Senior Chief Petty Officer
(Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Kraig M.
Vickers 36, of Kokomo, Hawaii

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Brian R. Bill, 31,
of Stamford, Conn.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) John W. Faas, 31,
of Minneapolis, Minn.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Kevin A. Houston,
35, of West Hyannisport, Mass.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason,
37, of Kansas City, Mo.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Stephen M. Mills,
35, of Fort Worth, Texas

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Chief Petty Officer
(Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist/Diver) Nicholas
H. Null, 30, of Washington, W.Va.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Robert J. Reeves,
32, of Shreveport, La.

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Heath M. Robinson,
34, of Detroit, Mich.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Darrik C.
Benson, 28, of Angwin, Calif.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Parachutist)
Christopher G. Campbell, 36, of Jacksonville, N.C.

Information Systems Technician Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary
Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Jared W. Day, 28, of
Taylorsville, Utah

Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare
Specialist) John Douangdara, 26, of South Sioux City, Neb.

Cryptologist Technician (Collection) Petty Officer 1st Class
(Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) Michael J. Strange, 25, of
Philadelphia, Pa.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Enlisted
Surface Warfare Specialist) Jon T. Tumilson, 35, of Rockford, Iowa

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Aaron C.
Vaughn, 30, of Stuart, Fla.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jason R.
Workman, 32, of Blanding, Utah

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jesse D.
Pittman, 27, of Ukiah, Calif.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Nicholas P.
Spehar, 24, of Saint Paul, Minn.

U.S. Army

Chief Warrant Officer David R. Carter, 47, of Centennial, Colo. 2nd
Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation
Battalion)

Chief Warrant Officer Bryan J. Nichols, 31, of Hays, Kan. 7th
Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation
Battalion)

Sgt. Patrick D. Hamburger, 30, of Lincoln, Neb. 2nd Battalion, 135th
Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion)

Sgt. Alexander J. Bennett, 24, of Tacoma, Wash. 7th Battalion, 158th
Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion)

Spc. Spencer C. Duncan, 21, of Olathe, Kan. 7th Battalion, 158th
Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion)

U.S Air Force

Tech. Sgt. John W. Brown, 33, of Tallahassee, Fla. 24th Special Tactics Squadron

Staff Sgt. Andrew W. Harvell, 26, of Long Beach, Calif. 24th Special
Tactics Squadron

Tech. Sgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, 28, of York, Pa. 24th Special Tactics
Squadron

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so
others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them
Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When
There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To LookSIZE>

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Somebody's Son

2011-08-12T00:10:00.001-04:00

US soldier, Specialist Joshua Schonert from 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 2-87 Infantry, 3d Brigade Combat Team under Afghanistan's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) lights a cigarette as he prepares for the day following earlier attacks by Taliban insurgents on their checkpoint in Kandalay village, Kandahar province southern Afghanistan on August 5, 2011. US troops together with forces from Afghan National Army repelled Taliban insurgents attacks on the checkpoint protecting the western area of Kandalay village. Since the checkpoint was set up in August 3, 2011, Taliban have staged attacks on the outpost for two consecutive days.

Department of Defense Announces the Names of our Thirty Fallen Heroes

2011-08-11T15:38:00.002-04:00

Please... as your read the names of our Fallen, lift a silent prayer.

Lt. Cmdr. (SEAL) Jonas B. Kelsall, 32, of Shreveport, La.,

Special Warfare Operator Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Louis J. Langlais, 44, of Santa Barbara, Calif.,

Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff, 34, of Green Forest, Ark.,

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Senior Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Kraig M. Vickers 36, of Kokomo, Hawaii,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Brian R. Bill, 31, of Stamford, Conn.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) John W. Faas, 31, of Minneapolis, Minn.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Kevin A. Houston, 35, of West Hyannisport, Mass.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, 37, of Kansas City, Mo.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Stephen M. Mills, 35, of Fort Worth, Texas,

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist/Diver) Nicholas H. Null, 30, of Washington, W.Va.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Robert J. Reeves, 32, of Shreveport, La.,

Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Heath M. Robinson, 34, of Detroit, Mich.,

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Darrik C. Benson, 28, of Angwin, Calif.

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Parachutist) Christopher G. Campbell, 36, of Jacksonville, N.C.,

Information Systems Technician Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Jared W. Day, 28, of Taylorsville, Utah,

Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) John Douangdara, 26, of South Sioux City, Neb.,

Cryptologist Technician (Collection) Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) Michael J. Strange, 25, of Philadelphia, Pa.,

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist) Jon T. Tumilson, 35, of Rockford, Iowa,

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Aaron C. Vaughn, 30, of Stuart, Fla., and

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jason R. Workman, 32, of Blanding, Utah.

The following sailors assigned to a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit were killed:

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jesse D. Pittman, 27, of Ukiah, Calif., and

Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Nicholas P. Spehar, 24, ofSaint Paul, Minn.

The soldiers killed were:

Chief Warrant Officer David R. Carter, 47, of Centennial, Colo. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Aurora, Colo.;

Chief Warrant Officer Bryan J. Nichols, 31, of Hays, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.;

Sgt. Patrick D. Hamburger, 30, of Lincoln, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Grand Island, Neb.;

Sgt. Alexander J. Bennett, 24, of Tacoma, Wash. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.; and

Spc. Spencer C. Duncan, 21, of Olathe, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.

The airmen killed were:

Tech. Sgt. John W. Brown, 33, of Tallahassee, Fla.;

Staff Sgt. Andrew W. Harvell, 26, of Long Beach, Calif.; and

Tech. Sgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, 28, of York, Pa.

All three airmen were assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Field, N.C.

Wednesday Hero 08/10/2011

2011-08-10T00:05:00.000-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Cindy

Sgt. Virgil Wallace
98 years old from Capitan, New Mexico

After almost 70 years, and on his 98th birthday, Sgt. Virgil Wallace, a survivor of the Battan Death March, has been awarded the Bronze Star for his service.

You can read more here.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

The Flights Will Arrive in Dover Today

2011-08-09T00:06:00.001-04:00

Pentagon officials announced Monday they will not allow any media coverage of the arrival of the remains of 22 SEALs, three Air Force special operations ground controllers, and five Army helicopter crew members killed Saturday in Afghanistan.

Please keep the families of these fallen heroes in your thoughts and prayers all day today.

I pray the families feel the tears of all Americans on this day.

AirmanMom Needs YOUR Help!!!!!

2011-08-08T06:19:00.003-04:00

I woke this morning to see the front page of the Washington Post... This newspaper chose to feature a fire in London, a story about StingBugs and a Maryland coupon instructor on the front page. As I thumbed through the paper, finally on page A8 was a story of our Fallen. The deadliest incident in this ten year war, slips to the back of the paper within just a couple days!

A8

As though hearing of this tragedy was not heart sickening enough...let's rub a little salt in this open wound and push away the fact those killed have faces.

So here is where I am pleading for your help. Yes, I am pleading. It is my goal to post the face of every warrior who paid the ultimate price on Saturday. As you find the name, the face, the story of our Fallen...please leave a comment and I will contact you.

Our Heroes may rate A8 in the Washington Post, but they will receive all the love and respect they deserve here at AirmanMom's! Thank you so very much!

One more thing... when all the names and faces have been gathered into one post, please share on your blog.

May Almighty God Bless our Fallen.
May Almighty God comfort their families.

Thirty-One American Troops Killed in Afghanistan...

2011-08-06T13:11:00.002-04:00

My heart hurts.

The deadliest single incident of this war. Here is the story.

May Almighty God Bless these thirty-one Heroes.
May Almighty God comfort the families who love them so.

Somebody's Son

2011-08-05T00:01:00.001-04:00

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 2, 2011) Seaman Chase Fritzie, from Cathlanet, Wash., prepares to lower a rigid-hull inflatable boat aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled western Pacific Ocean and Arabian Gulf deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Walter M. Wayman/Released)
Source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.

Day of the Deployed-October 26, 2011

2011-08-04T08:45:00.002-04:00

Senator Hoeven recently introduced S. Res. 253 in the U.S. Senate to designate Oct. 26, 2011 as Day of the Deployed in recognition of the sacrifices of U.S. servicemen and women currently deployed around the world.

This morning, I wrote letters to both of my Maryland Senators. Please join us! Find your Senator HERE.

Well, Isn't This News Just Swell?

2011-08-04T00:07:00.000-04:00

A powerful antipsychotic drug given to tens of thousands of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder is no more effective than a placebo against PTSD, according to a study released Wednesday. Read the entire article HERE.

Wednesday Hero 08/03/2011

2011-08-03T05:44:00.002-04:00

Staff Sgt. Jason Albrecht & Markey

Staff Sgt. Jason Albrecht runs military working dog, Markey, through an obstacle course July 13, 2011, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., during an obedience training session. Albrecht is a senior military working dog handler assigned to the 20th Security Forces Squadron.

Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force taken by Senior Airman Kenny Holston

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Christopher Lee receives many thanks for all his hard work to keep our heroes known (including our four-legged heroes)!

Talking Tuesday

2011-08-02T05:32:00.002-04:00

The recent news has been saturated with stories of the death of Amy Winehouse. Turn on the TV or Internet and you will learn all about her final hours, her funeral and how her family feels regarding her death. Who is she? ...oh, and let's not forget, just like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin... Winehouse, Hendrix, Joplin, et al died at the age of 27.

C'mon.... We've got it all wrong.

Is it our fault that the media chooses to permeate us with stories such as the death of Winehouse, rather than the stories of our Troops who are killed? For crying out loud...they are young, they have final hours, they have funeral arrangements and they have left behind families with broken hearts.

What can we do to change this? A letter writing campaign to the major networks, and small town papers requesting stories of our Fallen? Posting on our Blogs, Facebook pages and Twitter accounts the names of our Fallen Heroes on a daily basis? What are your ideas and do you honestly feel we can change the hearts and minds of Americans regarding those Killed in Action?

Does America care?

Here are the names of Soldiers who have been killed recently:

Sgt. William B. GrossPaniagua, 28 on July 31st
2nd Lt. Jered W. Ewy, 33 on July 29th
Spc. Augustus J. Vicari, 22 on July 29th
Master Sgt. Benjamin A. Stevenson, 36 on July 22nd
Sgt. Omar A. Jones, 28 on July 18th
Staff Sgt. Kenneth R. Vangiesen, 30 on July 18th
Sgt. Edward W. Koehler, 47 on July 18th
Staff Sgt. Brian K. Mowery, 49 on July 18th
Lance Cpl. Christopher L. Camero, 19 on July 15th
Sgt. Mark A. Cofield, 25 on July 17th
Lance Cpl. Jabari N. Thompson, 22 on July 17th
Master Sgt. Kenneth B. Elwell, 33 on July 17th
Pfc. Tyler M. Springmann, 19 on July 17th
Spc. Daniel L. Elliott, 21 on July 15th
Cpl. Frank R. Gross, 25 on July 16th
Staff Sgt. Lex L. Lewis, 40 on July 15th
Staff Sgt. Wyatt A. Goldsmith, 28 on July 15th
Sgt. Jeremy R. Summers, 27 on July 14th

May Almighty God Bless our Fallen Warriors.
May Almighty God comfort the families who love them so.
May Almighty God help us all.

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Your turn...............................

A Song For a New Month

2011-08-01T06:04:00.002-04:00

A friend/former co-worker posted this video and I had to share with you.

This song has always been one of my faves... the words are so incredibly powerful.

I had not heard this version before, and I must say it is simply awesome!

So go ahead...let it be your favorite song of the month.

Every one of us are showered with blessings...

Every one of us know some sort of challenge...

We have Soldiers who bravely protect us...

We have Soldiers so far from home, missing their families...

We have Soldiers who have returned home, no longer whole in body and mind....

(Please pause my PlayList on the right sidebar)

Operation Welcome Home!

2011-07-30T12:53:00.002-04:00

Many times, I have shared the totally amazing feeling it is to welcome home our Troops!We have no idea how long these Soldiers have been away...and honestly it doesn't matter if it was a couple months or a year. We welcome each of them back to the soil of the United States... simply because we appreciate every single one of them!

I happened upon this Operation Welcome Home-Maryland video. Many of you do not live close enough to an International Airport which our Troops return. This video gives a glance of what we do. ...and if you are ever in the DC/Maryland area...give me a shout out and we can try to attend an event. Honestly, it will place a brand new respect for our Troops in your heart. Please pause my playlist on the right sidebar.

Somebody's Son

2011-07-29T00:02:00.000-04:00

U.S. Marine Sgt. Ron Jojola, 29, of Fontana, Calif. , with the HMH-461 squadron out of the Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. , hangs a new American flag inside a CH-53E helicopter before taking off from Bastion Air Field Wednesday, July 27, 2011 in Helmand province, Afghanistan
Source: militaryphotos.net

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
We must remember each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine have a face.
Our brave Heroes have familiy and friends who love them so.
Let us not forget....

Mom Creed

2011-07-28T00:18:00.000-04:00

"I am the mother of an American Airman" I give my complete and unwavering support to my Airman. As my son serves the people of the United States, so I humbly offer up my prayers for his safety and the safety and health of those he serves beside. I respect his choice to adhere to a strict moral code and system of values that has preserved our great country for over two centuries. I accept that my Airman's first duty is to his country and I understand that this sacrifice he willingly makes is what keeps our nation great. I will never expect anything but the best from my Airman for I know he is capable. I know that an Airman's heart is true and strong, and that my Airman will endure. I will never abandon my Airman, my son, and my love. I will love him unconditionally. He will know I am there for him, even when he is alone. I am disciplined, emotionally and mentally tough, learning to wait for phone calls and letters or emails home. I, like my Airman, am an expert. I stand ready to do what ever I can do to let my son, my Airman, know that we are here for him, beside him, we love him and I will pray for swift destruction of the enemies of our country. I am the person who stood guardian of this man who has become my Airman, now our guardian of freedom and the American way of life. "I AM THE MOTHER OF AN AMERICAN AIRMAN."
-author unknown

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Wednesday Hero 07/27/2011

2011-07-27T00:08:00.000-04:00

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael McEvers & Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew McEvers

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael McEvers, left, of Troop F, 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment and his twin brother, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew McEvers of Troop D, 1st Sqdn., 17th Cav. Regt. Task Force Saber, pre-celebrated their 40th birthday by flying together in the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior, the helicopter the brothers have been flying for 10 years together.

Photo Courtesy U.S. Army Taken By Abbie Bennett

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Talking Tuesday

2011-07-26T00:10:00.001-04:00

Life in Prison, without parole....

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A man who killed one Arkansas Soldier and wounded another - an act he called retribution for the deaths of Muslims abroad - took an unexpected plea deal Monday that abruptly ended his murder trial and spared him the death penalty.

Abdulhakim Muhammad had repeatedly proclaimed that he drove up to a Little Rock, Ark., recruiting station, drew an assault rifle and fired on the two Soldiers. On Monday, Muhammad stood before Pulaski County Judge Herbert Wright and once more admitted to committing the crime.

Wright then sentenced Muhammad to life in prison without parole for capital murder, with 11 more life sentences on the remaining charges and an additional 180 years in prison. Read the rest of the article HERE

Life in prison....

Is this a fair sentence?

Your turn.................

Coming Home...

2011-07-25T05:57:00.002-04:00

It was so good to have John and Di home since last Tuesday!

We shared laughter and good food around the kitchen table.

We sat on the deck talking.

We picked veggies from the garden.

We went bowling.

We shopped at Buy-Buy-Baby.

We were surrounded by loving family and friends for the Baby Shower/Deployment Party.

Honestly, we could not ask for more.

So now the waiting begins...

The waiting for the arrival of the little guy....

The waiting for John's departure just a couple weeks after his son enters the world.

God has a plan, we may not always understand...

...but it is His plan, so it's all good.

Wednesday Hero 07/20/2010

2011-07-20T00:04:00.000-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Kathi

Maj. Gen. John R. Alison
98 years old from Washington, D.C.
75th Fighter Squadron, 1st Air Commando Group
November 21, 1912 – June 6, 2011

"John Alison had the greatest pure flying skill of any pilot in the theater — a touch on the controls that knew no equal. His talents were matched only by his eagerness for combat" - Maj. David Lee "Tex" Hill

John R. Alison, a retired Air Force major general and World War II fighter ace who helped lead a nighttime invasion by glider into enemy-held Burma — a logistical feat that included the transport of troops, heavy machinery and even mules, died June 6 at his home in Washington.

You can read more about Maj. Gen. John Alison here and here and view an interview with him here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Talking Tuesday

2011-07-19T00:07:00.002-04:00

I suppose it is really on one thought...

I am blessed.

John and Di are going to arrive on Tuesday night. We haven't seen each other since their wedding in May. They'll be home until Sunday. I am so very excited to see them. It will be a hectic few days...I know there are many people they want to visit...but they'll be here and that is all that matters. The party plans are full speed ahead...it should be a good time. Unfortunately, Maryland's famous "Hazy, Hot and Humid" weather will return during the week... believe it or not, Hubster and I ate dinner on the deck this past Saturday. A very rare occurrence in July!

On Sunday, I spoke with B and was able to wish V a Happy Birthday! When I stop to think of how deeply happy my son is with her in his life... my heart is filled with joy! Their wedding will be a memorable and an awesome celebration of their new life together!

I spent last Friday with Marie and Sweet Girl...doing a bit of shopping for the shower/deployment party and then a nice long lunch at Chuck E Cheese. My time with Marie is all about quality, not quantity....so I drink up each moment with her and her sweet little one.

K and her three little ladies fill me with so many smiles! How can it be that Precious is entering Kindergarten this Fall? Wasn't it just yesterday I was walking my little 5 year old to her first day of school? The baby is the cutest little imitator in all the world. She is so determined to keep up with her two big sisters...and honestly she holds her own! ...and then there is the Bright Eyed Beauty...never in my life have I met a child with a more tender heart at the age of four.

I have not forgotten my children-in-law. As a parent all I want for my children is true happiness. How blessed I am to see my own children grown, with families of their own...sharing their worlds with the one they love.

God is good. He has richly blessed me with a beautiful family. I live in a nice home, drive a Wrangler and really enjoy my job. My Hubster is my best friend in the world.

I try not to take any of my gifts for granted. My life is simple, but filled with so much good stuff. Every once in a while...I am overwhelmed with all the goodness I know. Today was one of those days.

Our news today, paints a very ugly image of our world. We'll all agree... unemployment stats, budget cuts, devastation in our heartland resulting from flooding, moms accused of killing their babies...very ugly. It's my belief in these difficult times, there is always good to be found. If we focus on the good, it keeps our hearts and minds more pure...we won't get caught up in the ugliness.

An old Cherokee told his grandson, “My son, there's a battle between two wolves inside us all. One is Evil. It's anger, jealousy, greed, resentment, inferiority, lies, and ego. The other is Good. It's joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy, and truth. The grandson thought about it and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf wins?” The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

Go ahead....fill up my comment section with good stuff. How are you richly blessed?

Your turn.....................

June-A Pretty Good Month!

2011-07-18T00:18:00.000-04:00

The Army released suicide data today for the month of June. Among active-duty soldiers, there were nine potential suicides: none have been confirmed as suicide, and nine remain under investigation. For May 2011, the Army reported 21 potential suicides among active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, one case has been removed because the manner of death was ruled accidental, two cases have been confirmed as suicide, and 18 cases remain under investigation.

During June, among reserve component soldiers who were not on active duty, there were five potential suicides: one has been confirmed as suicide, and four remain under investigation. For May 2011, the Army reported six potential suicides among not-on-active-duty soldiers. Since the release of that report, one case has been added for a total of seven cases. Two cases have been confirmed as suicide, and five cases remain under investigation.

"Early recognition of high risk behavior associated with administrative, legal and other disciplinary actions presents intervention opportunities for leaders, law enforcement personnel and service providers to mitigate negative outcomes, specifically suicidal behavior," said Brig. Gen. Colleen McGuire, director of the Army Health Promotion and Risk Reduction Task Force.

In response to this, the U.S. Army Military Police School has incorporated training into all professional military education courses to alert military police to the effects of stress caused by investigations or other disciplinary actions that can lead to acts of self harm.

McGuire, who is also the provost marshal general of the Army, recently implemented a new “Risk Notification Memorandum” to field commanders to highlight the potential risk to soldiers who are subject to a serious felony investigation. This notification is provided by Criminal Investigation Command to commanders upon the initiation of an investigation on one of their soldiers.

The Army's comprehensive list of Suicide Prevention Program information is located HERE.

source: defense.gov 07/15/2011

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Granted the best numbers for these statistics...is a nice round zero! There is information out there... for our Soldiers, their families, friends and comrades.
Please if you hurt...and we all do.
Make a phone call.
Suicide Hotline can help.
1-800-SUICIDE

Happy Birthday, V!!!!

2011-07-17T20:30:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday, V!

In just a few short months you will officially be a member of our family! We can't wait!

In this photo, it appears Marie tried to scare you off....but you have chosen to join our fam anyway! I am thrilled!

V, you are adorable! We love your smile, your heart and most of all we love how you love our B! We love you and we wish you a very Happy Birthday!

Somebody's Son

2011-07-15T00:05:00.001-04:00

After delivering U.S. Soldiers and Iraq dignitaries to their final destinations, Crew Chief Sgt. Fred Oser, A. Company 2-25, Combat Aviation Brigade, attached to 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, dismounts the 240 Bravo Machine Guns from the UH-60 Black Hawk used during the morning’s mission to several Combined Security Checkpoints in the Ninewa province, Iraq, July 2.
Photo by: Gregory Gieske

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Friday posts are random photos of our Soldiers.
Each and every Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine has a face, they have families who love them and they are some of our finest heroes!

Nose Art

2011-07-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness...
never before had I any idea how captivating Nose Art could be!
Well...to be honest, I had no idea the designs on planes actually had a name...much less that it is known as Nose Art. It makes perfect sense, since the nose of many military planes in WWII were 'decorated'. Some of it was good art, often it was naughty, it certainly expressed individuality (wait a sec...individuality in the military? Things that make you go "hmmmm") Nose Art is often considered sophisticated graffiti...graffiti + military = more confusion for AirmanMom!

I've found a couple of interesting websites, so I figured I'd share them:

noseart.net

century-of-flight.net

parentseyes.arizona.edu

GULF OF ADEN (July 6, 2011) Airmen remove chocks and tie-down chains from a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Evil Eyes of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 during flight operations aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay and the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (13th MEU) are underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stephen M. Votaw/Released)

Wednesday Hero 07/13/2011

2011-07-13T00:07:00.000-04:00

This Weeks Post Was Suggested By Cindy

Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry
31 years old from Santa Fe, New Mexico
2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment

Yesterday, July 12, Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry became the second living recipient of the Medal Of Honor from the War On Terror.

On May 26, 2008 Sgt 1st Class Petry lost his right hand when the enemy grenade he threw back, saving the lives of two of his fellow Soldiers, detonated. Despite the injury Sgt 1st Class Petry managed to tie a tourniquet around his arm and continued to fight.

You Can Read More About Sgt. 1st Class Petry Here

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives just so others may get to enjoy freedom. For that I am proud to call them Hero.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

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Thanks to Christopher Lee for his dedication and respect of our Troops!

Talking Tuesday

2011-07-12T00:10:00.000-04:00

Today's Military....

To my readers who are Veterans... if you were a young man/woman today, would you enlist?

To my readers who are of the 'younger' generation, would you enlist?

To my readers who are parents of our 'younger' generation...would you encourage your child to enlist?

To all who choose to reply to this question....why or why not?