At Peace

So many things have happened since I last posted. I attended the funerals of SPC. Taylor Marks on September 4th. It was the most heart breaking & yet inspirational funeral I have ever been to. I was part of the procession that escorted Spc. Marks from his hometown of Monmouth/Indenpendence up to his final resting place at Willamette National Cemetary in Portland. It was like the town literally rolled up their streets and and closed down to show him the honor and respect he deserved. The streets were lined on both sides with everyone from the community. Some held flags, some saluted, some held their hands to their hearts. The drive usually only takes about an hour to an hour and a half, the procession took 3 hours. All along I-5 & I-205 the state police & ODOT closed off the on ramps to the highway for the procession. Please got out of their vehicles to salute, it was amazing. He was truly honored and respected.

Then on Saturday, September 5th I attended SGT. Earl Werner's funerals. So many people loved and respected him. He was a true hero. His wife stood and spoke and said that Sgt. Werner promised to bring Spc. Marks home, and he did. Although they were not able to walk off the plane, they did both come home, TOGETHER. These families are truly amazing. Even in their great loss, they stood tall. Spc. Marks parents attended Saturdays service and when I spoke with his mom she had one thing to say.

"If another family goes thru this, you call me, I will be there to help them. I will cook meals, clean the house and do the dishes. But I want to help them the way that others have helped me."

Inspite it all, she is willing to serve. That is a true testament! The pastor gave this quote to ponder on "We are not falling to pieces because we are at peace." I could only hope that if I were ever faced with this kind of devastation in my life that I would be able to stand tall, proud and at peace.

A moment of silence for the loss of two Oregon Soldiers

It was announced today that two members of the Oregon Army National Guard were killed yesterday in Iraq, and at least a third wounded during an incident in eastern Baghdad.

The names of the injured have not been released pending notification of family members.

Our hearts and prayers go out to all the soldiers of the Oregon National Guard in this time of sorrow. This loss has had a huge impact on so many! My heart is breaking.

My Trip to Georgia was amazing

Here's some pictures from my trip! Well worth the cost to spend a few days with my husband!

Finally in Theatre

Troy has finally made it to Iraq. One benefit of him being in Iraq is he finally has internet, so we've been able to do video chats thru Skype. It's great being able to see him and talk to him at the same time. Of course it isn't the same as a face-to-face conversation, but I will take what I can get. Plus with this he's able to call more often, and the girls can see & talk to him as well. We've began the countdown to his return home. Hopefully he will get a 2 week break somewhere in the middle, but there is no guarentee on that. Thank you for all your love, prayers and support.