October 12, 2007
Haunted Hero
Pop some popcorn and put on your pajamas early tonight (Friday, October 12) - you won't want to miss this edition of Ghost Whisperer.
From CBS:
In this special episode of GHOST WHISPERER, "Haunted Hero," the show pays tribute to the brave men and women serving our country in Iraq. The story begins with a U.S. soldier and Iraqi war veteran who recently returned from combat with a medal in hand only to later be accused of deserting his platoon. The soldier is continuously haunted with nightmares reminding him of his time at war, specifically that night he lost his men, and it's up to Melinda (Jennifer Love Hewitt) to find out the truth. This episode blends fiction with a dose of reality as real-life U.S. Soldier Veterans participated in this historic episode.Click HERE to watch the interviews with Jennifer Love Hewitt, Executive Producer Ian Sanders and the Real-life War Veterans. Ghost Whisperer "Haunted Hero" will air this Friday October 12th (8:00 - 9:00 PM ET/PT) on The CBS Network.
Posted by Deb at 01:02 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
October 04, 2007
"I did it because he deserves it."
Folks from Texas have big hearts - and they do support our troops. Here's a snippet from My San Antonio that illustrates this point:
Last Wednesday, while flying from Phoenix to the Alamo City on U.S. Airways Flight 207, a San Antonio man, Gil Anderson, witnessed something memorable. |
Posted by Deb at 10:48 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 21, 2007
NBC is looking for a few good men (and women)
I received a request today from NBC - passing it along for those who may be interested:
NBC Television is looking for HEROIC STORIES FROM THE IRAQ WAR!!! If you or someone you know would like to share your story please contact us. Please include a current photo along with your contact information and a short description of the hero and any medals or awards they may have received. All submissions should be sent to heroicwarstories@yahoo.com . The deadline for submissions is Monday, March 26th.
Posted by Deb at 04:17 PM | Comments (11) | TrackBack
March 20, 2007
"You were the best that we had"
High FlightOh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swungHigh in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there,
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.Up, up the long delirious, burning blue
I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or even eagle flew.And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.
- John Gillespie Magee, Jr
On March 20, 2003, a CH-46 sea knight helicopter crashed en route to the Iraqi border town of Umm Qasr. On board were twelve warriors - four United States Marines and eight British Marines. Their loss was a collective blow to two allied countries - and the loss of twelve outstanding young men has forever changed the lives of those who knew them.
One of those men was USMC Corporal Brian Kennedy. Raised in Illinois, he played football in high school and lacrosse at both Purdue and Texas Tech, where he studied mechanical engineering. His future was bright. He wanted more.
In 1999, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, telling his father that it was a calling. Assigned to the 3rd Marine Air Wing, at Camp Pendleton as a helicopter hydraulics mechanic, he was deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in early 2003. In one of the opening days of the war, his helicopter crew was providing lift support and troop insertion for the British Royal Marines when the aircraft went down, just south of the Iraqi border. He was 25 years old.
A few days later, the remaining Marines from his aircraft group gathered in a maintenance hanger in Kuwait to remember Cpl. Kennedy and the other three U.S. members of the crew; Captain Jay T. Aubin, Captain Ryan Beaupre, and SSgt. Kendall Waters-Bey. A report filed by Sgt. T. L. Carter-Valrie described the battlefield memorial service and a few highlights are included here.
Cmdr. Jim Ellis, USN, who served as MAG-39 chaplain, remarked, "The purpose of this memorial is to create a memory through reflection and remembrance of these brave men. Marines and Sailors, this service is also for you. It is your time to create a memory that the Marine Corps will not forget the valiant actions of these men."
3rd MAW MajGen Amos explained why these men in particular were chosen; "It was challenging and it was tough - that's why the aircrew of this squadron were picked to lead the assault." Addressing the remaining warriors, he explained, "Your great squadron was out in front for a reason - -you were the best that we had."
Lt. Col. Jerry Driscoll, HMM-268 commanding officer, commented, "I remember these men as heroes because they made a simple decision to serve - to become Marines, to do good for others and in so doing are examples of leadership for us all," he said. "Our brothers demonstrated there is no greater love than one who would lay down his life for another."
Cpl. Brian Kennedy was a warrior. He was a Marine. He was also a beloved brother and son.. On this 4th anniversary of his sacrifice, pause to remember him. And also, remember his family - father and step-mother Mark and Valerie Kennedy, mother and step-father Melissa and John Derbyshire, and sister Gretchen Helgesen. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cpl. Kennedy is remembered, not only for the heroic way in which he died but how he lived. He accomplished more in 25 years than others do in a lifetime, and will never be forgotten by his family and friends, including his Marine brothers. For those of us who did not know him in life, we will never forget him in death.
Posted by Deb at 08:42 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
March 19, 2007
VAJoe
It's always fun to find a new milblog - and this one is particularly interesting. VAJoe is a new site built for the military community and it's well worth checking out. Here's what it's all about:
The VAJoe.com Blog is the gathering place for the U.S. military community to blog and comment on blogs about the war in Iraq, military news and benefits updates. We will feature interviews with popular military bloggers and guest blogs from well-known and respected bloggers.
The site includes contests and comedy, military news and info on veterans benefits. Membership is free for everyone in the military community. Check it out.
Posted by Deb at 07:31 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
March 15, 2007
Honoring past sacrifices
The gray foam and the great wheels of war go by and take all - and the years give mist and ashes - and our feet stand at these, the memory places of the known and the unknown, and our hands give a flame-won poppy - our hands touch the red bar of a flag for the sake of those who gave - and gave all.
- Carl Sandburg, 1918
When I travel, one of the must-do items on my list is to check out how various communities honor past and present members of their military. I've been to the top of the Soldiers and Sailors monument in the very center of downtown Indianapolis - and felt a bit guilty about taking the elevator to the top when I stepped off and met a 72 year old former Marine who had just climbed the 230-foot flight of stairs. Two years ago, I took a wrong turn coming home from Palm Springs and ended up in downtown San Francisco where the Lone Sailor statue at the northern end of the Golden Gate bridge stood overlooking San Francisco Bay. The plaque at his feet read, "Here the sailor feels the first long roll of the sea, the beginning of the endless horizon that leads to the far Pacific". I was reminded of my own father, now retired from the U.S. Navy, who spent most of the 20 years he served on board ship and away from his family. Last summer, I had a 6 hour layover in Savannah, so I grabbed a rental car and spent several hours driving through this beautiful Southern city - finding the Marine Monument in Forsyth Park was a perfect way to spend the afternoon.
Washington D.C. has far too many memorials to mention in one post - last spring, I spent a night and day viewing various sites. The elegant simplicity of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was heartbreaking - walking past years of names as numbers of those killed rose higher and higher. Rising out of the night were the statues that make up the Korean War Memorial. It gave life to the stories I've heard about the frozen Chosin and I could almost hear the crunch of battleworn boots through the snow as soldiers and Marines pressed forward into the fight. And no Marine Mom could visit D.C. without a visit to the Iwo Jima Memorial just a short walk from Arlington National Cemetary. Looking up at the statues of these defiant warriors who risked death to raise the U.S. flag atop Mt. Suribachi was awe-inspiring.
These memorials have stood for years as a tribute to the men and women who have given their lives to ensure freedom and democracy for the rest of us. These reminders of our historical past - cast bronze, carved marble, welded steel, and polished granite -serve as an investment in the future of our children and grandchildren. Someday, they will look at these memorials and remember the sacrifices of our troops.
Now, another memorial is being planned by a small Montana community. More information can be found at their website. Even if you do not live near Montana, consider supporting this effort - it's an investment in future generations who will look at this bronze statue and remember the past. Buy a brick, purchase a replica statue, send a donation - it's all good.
The Monument will be a 1.25 life size image of a combat soldier kneeling in from of a comrade's hastily dug grave mounted on a 12 ft long by 8 ft wide by 8 ft high black granite faced base. On the front side of the base will be etched in bold letters the words "We Will Never Forget!". Below that will be a listing of the 196 Flathhead County Servicemen who have been killed while defending our Great Nation, starting with Fred Weaton in the Spanish-American War and currently ending with Edward Saltz in the Iraqi War. Spaces will be provided for those who fall in future conflicts.
Read more about this at Blackfive and Grim's Hall.
Posted by Deb at 02:24 PM
January 23, 2007
Operation Marine Corps Kids
Last night, I watched a PBS show, sponsored by Sesame Street and hosted by Cuba Gooding Jr. about how the children of deployed troops cope with the absence of a beloved parent. One of the significant points made was that 700,000 children in this country have a parent at war. We'll soon be announcing a new project aimed at supporting the families of those who are deployed, but here's a preview. When babies are born to deployed troops, it's doubly hard for both mom and dad. The dad must wait weeks or months to meet his newest child. The mom has responsibilities of both parents, juggling the exhausting care of a newborn while meeting the needs of other children without the help of her husband. It's a sacrifice, and one that military families make every single day.
A dear friend of mine who has long been involved in charity works has volunteered to head up an effort designed to support the quiet heroines of this war and the littlest heroes - the kids that miss their daddy but know that he is helping protect them against some very bad people. Operation Marine Corps Kids will launch soon. We'll send care packages to the families of deployed troops when babies are born while the dad is deployed. The packages will include a hand crocheted baby afghan, perhaps a tiny cover (bonnet), or combat booties. With sufficient resources, we'll be able to include a handmade toy for other kids in the family. It's a small, but significant, gesture of love and support for those who keep the home fires burning alone.
Here's how you can help. Marine Corps Moms has been nominated as one of the milblogs that people like to read in a new contest put on by the VA Mortgage Center. You can vote for your favorite milblog - the top milblog is up for a prize of $3,000, and the top ten receive $250. If Marine Corps Moms finishes in the top ten, the prize money will be donated to our Marine Corps Family Foundation for Operation Marine Corps Kids. That will buy quite a lot of postage. Crocheters all over the United States are working on the initial supply of baby afghans.
Vote here for Marine Corps Moms.
I'll date this entry January 23rd so that it will stay at the top of this blog until voting ends. There are many excellent milblogs but I hope you'll consider supporting Marine Corps Moms so that we can support this very worthy project.
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who voted for Marine Corps Moms! We finished 6th and will donate the $250 check to Operation Marine Corps Kids, a Marine Corps Family Foundation project.
Posted by Deb at 12:00 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack
January 11, 2007
Yard Guards
Last Friday night, I had a rare opportunity to curl up by myself, with my dog, and watch TV with the remote in MY hand. Instead of shoot-em-up crime shows, I watched an English nanny try to set straight a family of six spirited preschool children. And once again, I'm thankful I had only one child. Six of my son and I'd be writing this from an institution. Next on the roster was Trading Spouses which I'd heard about but never watched. The premise of the show is that two opposite families trade moms for a week. And, I don't think they could have chosen more opposite families unless they'd searched on both Mars and Venus. One family hailed from the hills of North Carolina - the wife makes puppets and the husband is a very French baker. They have two free-spirited children, a stinky dog, and far-left political views. Their cabin matches the dog - dirt everywhere. Both spouses from the other family are retired Marines and the family identity is rooted firmly in the USMC values. They have one well behaved daughter and their house is spotless . . . and a shrine to the Corps with memorabilia in each room The puppeteer is learning to shoot and the Marine is plotting how to get that dog in a bathtub. I can't wait until this Friday's conclusion.
That's not what I started to write about.
The Marine family yard is guarded by one of the most attractive lawn ornaments I've seen (apart from a real live Marine).
Eric Tischler, a former Marine (Weapons Co. Dragons platoon. 3rd Batt. 8th Marines Camp Geiger, 1983-1987), makes handcrafted Marine Corps Lawn/Home ornaments in full dress blues. They stand about 2 feet tall, are hand painted and come in all enlisted ranks from Private to Sergeant Majors. Here's more, from the Pennsylvania Centre-Daily:
A mix of tiny, uniformed men, cleverly named "Yard Guards," stand at attention in Eric Tischler's yard.These wooden, painted lawn ornaments -- representative of the Marine Corps, in which Tischler once served -- are now his full-time job. The State College resident sells them to everyone from Marine Corps moms and families to former Marines.
"You don't have to remind a Marine of who he is," he said. "We're just crazy about this stuff."
In the future, Tischler hopes to expand to include all branches of the armed services.
He made several dozen yard guards, but it wasn't until one sold on eBay just six hours after it was posted that he realized there was a market for the ornaments.
"I was in the basement going nuts trying to make as many as I could," he said.
These days, Sky Top Machine custom cuts the guards out and Skills of Central Pennsylvania does most of the painting, save for a handful Tischler does at home.
Part of the proceeds, he says, will go to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
Yard Guards this fall will make their debut in Sgt. Grit's Marine Specialties, a catalog containing a mix of goods from T-shirts to luggage with Marine Corps logos, Tischler said.
For more information visit www.yardguards.org.
If you're looking for a gift for a Marine family - or just want to make sure your lawn is well-guarded - put one of these at attention.
Posted by Deb at 08:31 AM | Comments (162) | TrackBack
December 26, 2006
Operation Heart to Heart: Remembering our Troops with Valentines
Applebee's Restaurant in Salem, OR and the Marine Corps Family Foundation invite you to dinner December 27, 2006, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
10% of all dinner purchases will be donated to Operation "Heart to Heart." Bring your family & friends to join in the fun and support our troops. So please join us for dinner at Applebee's on Lancaster Drive in Salem.
Win a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Applebee's Restaurant with the purchase of a raffle ticket.
For additional information or to volunteer, contact or call:
Betsy James
Betsy5721@yahoo.com or call
503-339-2862
Posted by Deb at 04:30 PM | Comments (416) | TrackBack
December 12, 2006
Pigs, spiders, and supporting Marines
One of my favorite books is Charlotte's Web - the unlikely friendship between a pig and a spider who saves him from ending up in a frying pan in some suburban kitchen. At one point, Wilbur asks Charlotte, "Why did you do all this for me? I don't deserve it. I've never done anything for you."
Charlotte's reply is profound.
""You have been my friend," replied Charlotte. "That in itself is a tremendous thing. I wove my webs for you because I liked you. After all, what's a life, anyway? We're born, we live a little while, we die. . . .By helping you, perhaps I was trying to lift up my life a trifle. Heavens knows anyone's life can stand a little of that."
If your life can stand a bit more of that, you're invited to help support Marines who are helping the unfortunate of the world. Regal Cinema at Bridgeport Village in Tigard, OR will celebrate the premiere of Charlotte's Web this Saturday, December 16, 2006. Families are invited to the theater between 1:00-8:00 p.m. for games, a petting zoo, and prizes. MCFF representatives will be on hand from 1:00-3:30 and 6:00-8:00 to highlight troop support activities sponsored by the Marine Corps Family Foundation.
Donations of white socks, handwarmers, and other stocking stuffers may be brought to the theater on Saturday for Operation Santa. Over 17,000 stockings and gifts have been sent to deployed troops in the last two months from this project and we're continuing to mail packages daily. Donations of size L and XL sweatshirts and sweatpants are also needed for Operation Winter Warmer. These will be sent to field hospitals in Iraq and Afghanistan for wounded troops who are airlifted to Landstuhl Germany.
Just as Charlotte helped Wilbur, you can help our deployed troops. For more information, contact Regal Cinema at (503) 968-7575 or Deb Conrad at (541) 974-6948. For more information on the Marine Corps Family Foundation, visit www.marinecorpsfamilyfoundation.org .
Marine Corps Family foundation is a 501c3 organization. All donations are tax deductible.
Posted by Deb at 10:25 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
December 03, 2006
Baghdad ER needs our help
1st Lt Michelle L Littrel AN, a nurse who tends to our wounded as they come in from the field, sends a request from the battlefield, When troops come in, they often have little more than the clothes they were wearing on the battlefield - and when those are cut off, they are left with whatever is available at the hospital. You can help make a difference in their comfort level by providing wounded troops with sweatshirts and sweatpants to wear in the hospital and en route to Landstuhl. Here's a note from 1st Lt. Littrel:
Good Morning everyone! |
The Marine Corps Family Foundation is working with athletic wear makers to make this wish come true. You can help by making a donation. Simply go to www.marinecorpsfamilyfoundation.org and hit the PayPal button. When making your donation designate "Operation Winter Wear". Our wounded soldiers and Marines need our help. You can make a difference. Or, contact operationwinterwarmer@marinecorpsfamilyfoundation.org for mailing and donation information.
Posted by Deb at 10:25 AM
December 01, 2006
Help our wounded troops
We've had a request to send sweat pants and sweat shirts for wounded troops who have been airlifted to Landstuhl. Often, they arrive with nothing since their belongings are left behind at their base. If you can help by sending size L & XL sweatshirts and sweatpants, email operationwinterwarmer@marinecorpsfamilyfoundation.org and we'll provide a mailing address for you. Thanks for supporting our troops!
Posted by Deb at 08:43 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 27, 2006
Tribute from a former Marine
Roger Mastrorillo is a former Marine who served in Vietnam and he has created a video in tribute to all who serve. He writes, "Todays young Marines are outstanding and I am very proud of how well they carry on the Marine Corp tradition." Oohrah!
Posted by Deb at 01:50 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
November 25, 2006
Camosocks for your favorite Marine
Bob Gilead, a former Marine and proud Marine dad has designed a very special gift for Marines and the people who love them:
Bob wrote:
I am a Marine (1963-1967) and the father of my Marine daughter Elizabeth just back from Okinawa. I am the owner of a small company called TERK Designs. The only item I sell is the CAMOSOCK. |
Take a look at Bob's website: www.camosock.com and buy a stocking - you'll be able to cross one more item off your shopping list and know that you're supporting the Semper Fi fund too. Oohrah!
Posted by Deb at 10:25 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
May 07, 2006
Angels on the battlefield
This afternoon, I was privileged to attend the funeral of an American hero. Petty Office 3, Marcques J. Nettles was remembered with tears and laughter by friends and family who gathered to say goodbye. Marcques was deployed with 1st Combat Logistics Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I MEF, Camp Pendleton, Calif. On April 2, 2006 Nettles was travelling with seven Marines when the truck they were in rolled over in a flash flood near Al Asad, Iraq.
- Cpl. David A. Bass, 20, of Nashville, Tennessee.
- Lance Cpl. Patrick J. Gallagher, 27, of Jacksonville, Florida.
- Cpl. Brian R. St. Germain, 22, of Warwick, Rhode Island.
- Petty Officer 3rd Class Marcques J. Nettles, 22, of Beaverton, Oregon.
- Lance Cpl. Eric A. Palmisano, 27, of Florence, Wisconsin.
- Lance Cpl. Felipe D. Sandoval-Flores, 20, of Los Angeles, California.
- Staff Sgt. Abraham G. Twitchell, 28, of Yelm, Washington.
- Cpl. Andres Aguilar Jr., 21, of Victoria, Texas.
In a memorial service held inside the Al Asad base garage on April 18, hundreds of U.S. service members and civilians remembered the fallen troops. Staff Sgt. Jim Goodwin was there:
Standing atop the backside of a large, military flatbed truck behind a wooden podium, Lt. Col. Drew T. Doolin, the unit's commanding officer, spoke of the Marines' sacrifice and offered words of encouragement to those in attendance."We honor them best by remaining steady in our resolve, in our professionalism and in our faith in each other," said Doolin, whose comments opened the hour-long ceremony. "They will not be forgotten."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and many friends who grieve their loss," said Doolin.
Nestled underneath an open, steel-roofed area where normally a large, military truck would be, Marines and other attendees sat and listened as Marines and sailors took turns speaking of the fallen Marines and sailor.
"They died doing what they love, and they are deeply missed," said Capt. Carrie M. Pendroy..
And Corpsman Nettles was remembered by the sailors and Marines with whom he served:
Always the one to find good in any situation, Nettles was recalled by fellow Navy corpsmen at the service, a person who "never backed away from a challenge," and was always willing to help a fellow Marine or sailor."He made me realize that there is still good in the world, you just have to look around for it,"said Hospitalman Jorge Arreola, who worked with Nettles at CLB-7's medical clinic. "If you were searching for hope or just a piece of mind, all you had to do was look at his smile."
"If someone came back from a convoy in a foul mood, he'd be the one to greet him with a smile and ask, 'Do you want to talk about it?' offer a drink, and let the guy vent," said Petty Officer 1st Class David A. Pope, who also worked with Nettles at the battalion's medical clinic. "By the end of it, they're both laughing and things are good. He was a good man and friend."
In today's ceremony, Marcques was described by his football coach, Bob Corey, as having the biggest heart on the field. He described a pivotal game, when Marques was a sophomore and sprained his ankle shortly before the game. Despite his injury, he was a one-man offensive force and carried the day for his team. Corey said that every team, every class at Westview High School will know about Marcques Nettles. His legacy will live on.
Christina Mullen, who first met Marcques in 7th grade, spoke of an instant bond. They dated in high school - she was a cheerleader and he was co-captain of the football team - and there was never anyone else for either of them. After high school, they married and he joined the Navy. With tears on her face, she spoke of his "amazing smile" and the love they had for each other. She thanked Marcques for "every laugh and every tear, too many fishing trips, and for getting up to make me coffee even though he didn't drink it."
Marcques' brother Curtis, also a sailor assigned to Camp Pendleton, spoke of growing up with Marcques - fishing, golfing, snowboarding, and finally enlisting in the Navy - and looking forward to being stationed together at Camp Pendleton. He finished by singing In the Lord's Arms by Ben Harper:
Like petals gone from a rose
Like a dove caught in a storm
Tonight he's in the Lord's Arms
Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, a former Marine, spoke of how Marines cherished their Corpsmen - the only non-Marines authorized to wear the prized Eagle, Glove and Anchor - as angels on the battlefield. And Curtis Sr. and Suzie Nettles, Marcques parents, shared their recollections of a son who brought something special into every life he touched. Suzie remembered his prayers as a young child with a speech impediment . . . "Oh Lord, take care of them that they not twip and bweed". And he carried that concern into his professional life as a Hospital Corpsman. Curtis's pride in his son was evident - there were few dry eyes in the sanctuary as he sang Proud to be an American and I Can Only Imagine.
There'll be a party in Heaven tonight as one more soul is welcomed into the Kingdom where the best and brightest guard golden streets.
Posted by Deb at 10:18 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
May 03, 2006
How to support the troops
Quote from an Army Captain:
Support the troops, right? WE DONT WANT CARE PACKAGES. We want letters to go to senators telling them that we want to stay and win, because we do. Did the soldier I lost in June die for nothing? Its up to the American people.
Posted by Deb at 12:34 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
April 30, 2006
Funeral home takes dead Marine's savings
Most funeral home directors are upright citizens who provide outstanding support for families of fallen heroes. The mortuary that handled Casey Sheehan's funeral, for example, provided much support and service to the family - the owner absorbed significant expenses himself, covering costs not paid by the Marine Corps.
There are exceptions to every rule.
Via Greyhawk, here's a situation that needs a bit of persuasive action:
Jason Sepulveda, a Marine, was training at Camp Lejune in North Carolina, preparing to go to Iraq, when in an evening off-base, he was killed in a car accident."My son died instantly and the other Marine died approximately two weeks after," said Elis Sepulveda, Jason's mother.
His parents, who spoke with him weekly, knew he had been saving his money for a long weekend when they would all be together.
"We were going on vacation for the Fourth of July to visit him," Sepulveda said. "I know he had been sacrificing because they don't get paid very much."
Jason's body was returned to Colorado for burial. Records show that the funeral was paid, in full, by the Marines. But after closing out her son's accounts, Jason's mother realized that the probate court had sent the proceeds of Jason's savings account to the funeral home, which is run by Jim Bostick.
"I called Mr. Bostick and I said, 'Well, the courts sent you my son's savings account.' He just kind of really blew me off a lot," Sepulveda said.
She said he didn't give her any receipts or bills and just kept the money.
Jason Sepulveda knew the meaning of sacrifice. The Sepulveda family lives with that meaning every day. Jim Bostick has yet to get that message. He was elected mayor of the small town of Ft Lupton, Co last year. In a letter to his constituents, he outlined a series of challenges facing the town. The letter ends with an open invitation for citizen input on upcoming issues:
There are many other issues that Fort Lupton faces and will continue to face. I encourage all citizens to please contact their council members or myself and let us know your input.
The issue of an elected official who keeps money that he is not entitled to and refuses to return it to a dead Marine's grieving family - despite court orders mandating that he do so - certainly deserves citizen input. You are cordially invited to provide that input.
E-mail: LuptonCouncil@aol.com
Phone: 303-857-4707 or 303-857-6694
Or, contact the one of the two Bostick Funeral Home locations directly:
Bostick Funeral Home
106 N 10th Ave
Brighton, CO 80601-1810
Phone: (303)659-8465
or
Bostick Funeral Home
806 Denver Ave
Fort Lupton
Colorado 80621
Phone: (303) 857-2290
While Mr. Bostick does not appear to be a member of he Colorado Funeral Director's Association, his name appears on their website. If the board has not heard of his activities yet, they will as soon as they read my e-mail to them:
In reviewing your site, I noticed that while Jim Bostick (who owns two funeral homes in Colorado) is not a COFDA member, he is listed on your site. Perhaps you are not aware that Mr. Bostick has refused to comply with a court judgement requiring him to pay back funds sent to him when a probate court mistakenly remitted the savings account of Jason Sepulveda, a Marine from Colorado who was killed in a car accident while training in North Carolina, to him. The funeral costs for Mr. Sepulveda were paid in full by the USMC, so Mr. Bostick had no claim on the funds and he knows this. However, in a recent TV interview, he refuses to either acknowledge that he owes the Sepulveda family the funds or reveal a plan for repayment.I hope that your organization will put whatever pressure you are able to exert on Mr. Bostick for his reprehensible action. Further, I hope you will remove his name from your website since its presence implies tacit recognition and approval of his business activities.
Posted by Deb at 05:55 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
April 22, 2006
Milblog Conference happens today
After a very interesting number of flights today (note to self: make sure you're standing in the right line at the airport) I'm finally here in Virginia and may get a few hours sleep before the conference tomorrow. Maybe. If you're interested, the conference will be videostreamed at http://www.militarywebcom.org/milblogs06 Also, catch the latest on Fran O'Brien's at Andi's World, as well as the latest on the conference. People like Andi make this world a better place.Posted by Deb at 12:25 AM | Comments (383) | TrackBack
April 20, 2006
2006 Milblog Conference 2006
Tomorrow morning, I fly to Washington D.C. for the first MilBlog conference. It's a huge honor to be asked to sit on the family panel - the other panelists are some of the biggest names in MilBlogging and I can't wait to meet them. Thanks to Andi from Andi's World for coordinating the conference - she's an amazing woman and a tireless troop supporter.The day's events will be covered by BBC, MSNBC, and the Pentagon Channel, and will also be video streamed through the internet so you'll be able to see the proceedings. And, if you live in the Washington D.C. area, you can still register - there are about 100 seats left open. Here's an overview:The 2006 Milblog Conference will take place in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, April 22, 2006. The conference is designed to bring milbloggers together for one full day of interesting discussion on topics associated with milblogging. We will explore the history of milblogs, as well as what the future may hold for this medium which the military community is using to tell their stories. |
This article, published today addresses this unique and increasingly powerful niche in the blogging world.
Web logs have provided a unique window into the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, allowing troops to bypass the mainstream media to detail their exploits. But these so-called milblogs are increasingly serving as forums for policy debates, such as the effectiveness of the war strategy or how to deal with Iran's nuclear program. |
Tip of the hat to JP at Milblogging.com.
Conferences are expensive creatures and although Andi has worked hard to raise the funds for this one through support from a number of groups, there is still a shortfall. Here's Andi's plea for those of you who support the role that milblogging plays in distributing information:
The conference will be partially funded through a grant from the Hidden Heroes Foundation. Recently, singer Barbara Fairchild recorded a song titled The Hidden Heroes, which is meant to pay tribute to those left behind, the families of our troops. It's a very emotional song. Todd Clegg is going to put images (photos) to the song and it will then be released. One of Todd Cleggs pieces can be viewed here (sound):
HHF is requesting patriotic photos from families of our troops so they can use them for this project, as well as others. The song will be available for download soon for a minimum $1 donation. Any single donation over $1 will be donated to the Milblog Conference, up to a maximum of $5,000. Please consider a donation to this foundation. The VFW has posted a link on the conference site and you can view it and listen to the song there.
See you at the conference - in person or on line. And, a special thanks to my friends, George and Joan, who are hosting me - I've known them online for years but only recently met them when I flew to Florida to celebrate the wedding of mutual friends. They invited me to stay with them and that made the trip possible for me. Thanks! While I''m there, I'll also get to meet Carrie Costantini who is both a Marine wife and mom and who has been so helpful in several MCM projects.
Posted by Deb at 07:36 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
April 18, 2006
Fran O'Brien's last stand
For the past years, the fine folks at Fran O'Brien's Stadium Steakhouse located in the Capitol Hilton have been hosting Friday night steak dinners for wounded warriors from Walter Reed Hospital. These vets who are adjusting to life after war have significant physical difficulties. Wheelchairs. Prosthetic Limbs. And at Fran O'Brien's, they have a private room where they won't have to deal with stares and whispers. It's a gift to them - no bills are presented at the end of the meal.From the Washington Post:
They come to the subterranean restaurant, at the corner of 16th and L streets NW in the basement of the Capital Hilton, in volunteer's vans and trucks. They're carefully wheeled down the stairs or slowly negotiate the steps on crutches. It has become a tradition so beloved among veterans that Garry Trudeau featured the dinners in his Doonesbury comic strip. |
The negotiations included repeated promises by the Hilton that there would be no problem with renewing the least. Now, just weeks before the expiration date, they've made a business decision. And the ones that will be most affected by this are the heroes who, one night a week, can enjoy a sense of normalcy that the best hospital in the world could not match.
Retired Army Staff Sgt. Michael Cain will never forget the porterhouse he had on his first night at O'Brien's, in 2003 after five months in the hospital. "It beat the hell out of hospital food," said Cain, who lost part of a leg in an explosion in Tikrit. |
Although the Hilton has (in response to a flood of e-mails and phone calls) offered to continue the Friday night dinners, they don't get it. It's not the food. It's not the location. It's a former Vietnam vet with a big heart who was determined to make a difference for these guys. And the way the Hilton made and communicated their business decision leaves a lot to be desired, from a number of perspectives - public relations, business, and humanitarian.
Andi from Andi's World has been following the situation and will continue to update us. Do consider adding your voice to those who have an opinion on how the Hilton handled this situation. Be polite but be heard.
Dan Boyle(212) 838-1558
Brian Kellaher (202) 393-1000
Posted by Deb at 12:13 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
April 08, 2006
Emily Dieruf and her Corporal Nich - honoring his memory and sacrifice
On April 8, 2004, Emily Dieruf was told that her husband of three months, Corporal Nich Dieruf, had been killed while serving with 1st LAR near Husaybah, Iraq. Out of her grief was born a steely determination to continue the legacy of her husband's work in Iraq by supporting the families of troops here at home.Marine wife and mother, Carrie Costantini, remarked in an e-mail last night; "I'm sitting here tonight thinking about what tomorrow means. Tomorrow means that it's the 2nd anniversary of Cpl. Nich Dieruf's death.
His wife is an inspiration to me ... she's founded the Cpl. Nich Dieruf Foundation. Cpl. Nich foundation supports military families in crisis with quality of life grants. That's right..grants..not loans. For reservist families, for abandoned spouses, for surrogate family members and many more, this foundation provides support. She is 24 years old and does so much for our military families. She is not old enough to rent a car yet she does all of these things for us."
Emily Dieruf recently visited Quantico to speak with military spouses at the Commander's Course Spouse's Workshop. Here's a report from the workshop:
"People need not forget about our fallen soldiers, their sacrifices and the families who are affected," Dieruf said. "When Nich was killed, I vowed that I would not let him become a mere number or statistic. I live everyday honoring his memory and sacrifice, just like all of those others who fell before and after him."
Staying true to her word, Dieruf, along with USA Cares, has helped more than 2,000 families by providing or locating over $1 million in financial support. Dieruf's speaking engagements help military wives by making a sensitive topic more real for them. Many do not like to speak about war and death, but Dieruf sets the stage for honest discussion among the women of her audiences.
"Other military wives react with great sympathy and horror. I represent a harsh reality for them," she said. "But, overall, everyone has been extremely supportive and understanding." Although Dieruf was only able to enjoy her marriage with Nich for a brief moment, she will continue to honor her husband and his legacy.
"My husband whole heartedly believed in what the United States is accomplishing in Iraq and Afghanistan and so do I," she said. "He would write me letters about how the women and children of Iraq would thank the troops for coming to liberate their desperate country."
That is what keeps Dieruf going, and she lacks no motivation.
"Every day that I get to tell another audience about my personal hero, Nich," she said, "I am rejuvenated for the following days to come."
During Corporal Dieruf's funeral, church rector Paul Prabell eulogized; "We can be sure that Nicholas has fought the good fight as a faithful Marine. We can be sure that this former cross country runner has run the race to the finish, that this young man of faith and dreams and spirituality has kept the faith."
Emily is continuing his race with the same faith and dreams that Nich brought to his fight. Consider donating to the Corporal Nich fund in his memory today. Cassandra at Villainous Company also has a tribute up today - do stop by and read it.
Posted by Deb at 08:47 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
April 03, 2006
Run for the Warriors
Carrie Costantini sent this along, thinking that it would be of interest to those who read this site.The "USO Run For The Warriors" is dedicated to the men and women wounded in Afghanistan and Iraq and their families. It is intended as a celebration of their strength and resolve and a promise that their sacrifices will not be forgotten, nor their needs unmet. By uniting the entire community, military and civilian alike, this unique event will embrace Wounded Warriors and their families in the shared belief that there is hope beyond recovery.
All proceeds from the race will benefit Wounded Warriors and their families through the organizations listed below. We intend to address both immediate needs as well as future needs. The monies raised will be earmarked specifically for "Wounded Warrior needs" to assist with funding transportation for wounded service members unable to drive, to establish scholarships for spouses who may need to take an active role in the financial support of their family, to provide assistance with specially adapted housing, and to provide respite to families as they care for their wounded loved one, in the form of restaurant cards, gas cards, and child care certificates, to name a few.
The USO of NC.
The mission of the USO of North Carolina is to enhance the quality of life of U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families within our geographic boundaries, and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and the supporting civilian communities. The USO is actively involved in the support of Wounded Warriors and their families, providing care and assistance to the Wounded Warrior Barracks, the Wounded Warrior Spouses' Support Group, newly arrived patients at Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune and families both near and far coming to the aid of their loved one.
WOUNDED WARRIOR BARRACKS
Supported by II MEF this centralized billeting allows single wounded Marines to come together as a team to recover and transition to the next phase of their lives, whether it be back to duty or to civilian life. The camaraderie and indomitable spirit found within its walls is truly amazing.
WOUNDED WARRIOR SPOUSES' SUPPORT GROUP
Meeting the third Wednesday of each month, the Wounded Warrior Spouses' Support Group offers an open forum where spouses, significant others, and friends affected by a wounded Marine can find knowledge and strength in shared experiences with those who have walked a mile in their shoes.
Project CARE
Administered by the Jacksonville/Onslow Chamber of Commerce, Project CARE's Mission is to provide benefits for spouses of those who are currently deployed. By rallying its members, Project CARE matches community services to needs of the families left behind
T-SHIRT DESIGN
Run for the Warriors' pre-race kick off will be a t-shirt contest, with the winning entry being selected as the official race shirt. As Wounded Warriors reintegrate back into the community we find their courage and tenacity invigorating. The theme therefore is a tribute to their strength and our commitment to stand behind them in the belief that there is "Hope Beyond Recovery". Children fourth grade through high school are invited to capture this essence and in doing so we hope that they will gain an understanding that disabilities and challenges are not roadblocks to life.
RACE DAY
We invite young and old, military and civilian, runners and walkers to help welcome home and embrace our Wounded Warriors. Three race venues are provided: a 10K run/walk, 5K run/walk and a 1 mile fun run. During the opening ceremony, Wounded Warriors will be welcomed home followed by a pre-race warm-up to kick off the Wounded Warrior Dash where they will be invited to crutch, wheel and otherwise ambulate to the victory line. The 10K, 5K and 1 mile fun run will commence shortly thereafter. A service expo at the race site will provide access to those agencies that offer support to the Wounded Warriors and their families and will raise awareness in how the community can become involved. Immediately following all races there will be an awards/closing ceremony. We will introduce and award the winner of the t-shirt contest as well as the top male and female overall and each male and female age category in the 10K and 5K races. Finally, a special tribute will be made to all wounded participants.
Download more information here.
Posted by Deb at 12:40 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
March 21, 2006
What NOT to send to your Marine
LtCol Dave Furness sent this cautionary note to friends and family of his 1/1 Marines:I wanted to take the time today to sit down and ask for your assistance on an issue that I am very concerned about, alcohol and other off limits items being sent in the mail to your Marines and sailors. Today I had the unpleasant duty to forward a member of 1/1 to a General Officers level Non-Judicial Punishment. I took no joy in doing this, but the man was found with alcohol, alcohol that he had received from a family member. I am sure the family member believed they were doing him a favor. To reiterate, it is illegal for any Marine/Sailor/Civilian serving in Iraq to have alcohol. This one incident may very well have ruined his career.
I once again ask you to please not mail any items which, in the possession of your loved one in Iraq, are considered illegal and could get them into serious trouble. Specifically, do not mail alcohol, pornography, firearms, or ammunition.
Posted by Deb at 12:38 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
March 20, 2006
Have you been Sempertoon'ed?
That's a question that GySgt Wolf, Art Director of the Marine Corps Recruiting command, wants us to have fun with. He noted in a recent email, "Humor is the best medicine and Sempertoons is the Military CURE!!!" I agree - judicious use of humor in highly stressful situations is a terrific anxiety reducer and Sempertoons is a wonderful way to smile at the idiosyncrasies of the Corps. He's just started a 4-part series, leading up to Easter, and here's the first one:
A few years ago, Gunny Wolf was profiled in a Defend America News article:
The United States Marine Corps thrives on the ethos of honor, courage and commitment, and Staff Sgt. Charles F. Wolf epitomizes that ethos through art.
He's a stocky 5 feet, 5 inches tall, 160 pounds-from weight he gained during his years of bodybuilding. His face, chiseled like stone, doesn't look mean.
Wolf, a graphics instructor at the Defense Information School here, is a very easy-going person who believes in thinking outside the box to which most people limit themselves. Through his perseverance he has managed to apply his artistic creativity to other aspects of his life.
Growing up, he never believed his interest in art would develop the following it has, he said. Like most kids, he enjoyed doodling on scratch sheets of paper as something to pass the time. His first formal graphic design education was at a vocational school the year before he graduated high school.
"I just believe that everyone doodles or draws in their free time," said Wolf. "Some of us try, and then there are people who have a natural talent for it and excel from an early age."
He joined the Marine Corps in 1987 and started his career as an anti-tank assault man, or dragon gunner. For nine years his artistic creativity remained dormant, except for small requests to draw things like range flags, random sketches, or cartoons during his off-duty time.
"Initially I saw it as an opportunity to boost morale," said the Ashtabula, Ohio, native. "And I never lost that fire for seeing something come to life in front of me-that's the essence of art."
While stationed aboard the USS Blue Ridge in Yokosuka, Japan, he began drawing cartoons, which would soon be referred to as Sempertoons. This assignment fueled Wolf with a plethora of ideas for cartoons. "It was endless, and I saw how my cartoons made people laugh," he said.
Wolf's love for art began to equate to his love for the Corps, but he thought he had to keep the two worlds separate.
"I knew that art was going to take me somewhere, I just had to figure out how to connect the two worlds," he said. "It all came together in one moment, and it was like a big tidal wave hitting me."
As an enlisted instructor at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., the instructor group tasked him with drawing a sketch of the range. His sketch was sent to the graphics department to be drawn on a larger scale, and subsequently, he was sent to graphics to ensure they were duplicating his work correctly.
"I didn't even know that graphics existed," he said. "I walked through that building completely astounded, and that's where the desire to change my (military occupational specialty) evolved."
After the seed was planted, he was sent to his new duty station in Camp Pendleton, Calif., assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, which deployed with the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade. This provided another opportunity for him to gather material for his cartoons.
Even though Wolf had done several drawings during his Marine Corps career, he still did not realize the full capability of his talent.
"To be honest, the full impact of art did not hit me until I started doing Sempertoons," said Wolf. "In fact, the first few drawings weren't even that great."
When he returned from deployment, he met with MOS monitors and requested a lateral move to the 4611 MOS, or graphic illustrator.
His request was eventually approved and he reported for duty at the Quantico graphics center for three years, to include six months of on-the-job-training. He then served as the chief of graphics on Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and two-and-a-half years later he was selected to be an instructor at DINFOS.
He now has the opportunity to pass on to younger Marines his talent and knowledge as a graphics illustrator.
He's been promoted since then, and in a recent e-mail, Gunny Wolf commented on the motivation behind his work:
"I live in Virginia with my lovely wife Amelia (My 1st Sergeant) and we are expecting our first child in July. ( I refuse to name the Baby "Sempertoon"...hahha.
Sempertoons is a family friendly way to relax and laugh at situations that sometimes leave everyone in the dark when it come to the Marines. I am most proud that Sempertoons is a window, vehicle and place for all of us to laugh together. Laughing is the universal language that keeps us bonded during tough and hard times. I can promise to everyone reading this that, Sempertoons will always be there for them when they need it.
My vision is to let everyone know this and let them find their own way through the humor. Regardless of the path, when you look around you are still bonded to your fellow brothers and sisters. "Now That's Semper Fi"
I would ask everyone to have fun with the following statement.... "Have you been Sempertoon'ed?"
And, here's an earlier one that you'll enjoy too:
