Balancing a saved life with the freedom of choice ...

I am a habitual reader of Post Secret, a blog created by Frank Warren, where people mail in their secrets on a postcard and they are anonymously posted for readers to view. Some of them are heartbreaking, others are joyous, some make you think, and others make you feel less alone. Sometimes you are surprised to find someone else has revealed a secret that you share as well. For the most part, the emotions and feelings that they evoke in me are mine alone. I don't blog about it, share it with friends or family members or chat about it on social networks. But today, I read one that angered me ... no outraged me.

It was a postcard of the Pentagon and simply read: "I draft wills for those deploying. I ignore their wishes and make them all organ donors."

I had to read it twice ... it struck a chord with me. The audacity of this person to feel that their own beliefs outweigh the wishes of service members who are volunteering to put themselves in harm’s way to protect others. I mean if it weren't for the troops fighting for our freedoms think of the oppression we could be living with ... and this person's reply is to take away the freedom of service members to make that choice. Some people have religious reason for making the decision not to donate; others may have spoken their wishes to a family member under what conditions that they wanted their organs donated.

Its a sad day today ... to see one person deviously take away a freedom from the very people who protect them ...

Need Help: Calling all Milspouses

In 1984, President Reagan declared the Friday before Mother’s Day each year as Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

Greetings all! I am hoping one (or more) of you can help me. May 7 is National Military Spouse Appreciation Day and we have recently learned that the installation we are assigned to does not have any plans to host any activites as had been done at other installations we were at. In light of that, my husband and I have decided to host our own MilSpouse Appreciation event for the 15 families in our unit, which unfortunately means we are footing the bill for everything. Despite a tight budget, we would like to have some small gifts for the spouses to take home and I have come up with some affordable (and hopefully good) ideas.

My husband will be doing a certificate of appreciation for each spouse, I am going to print a military wife poem on cardstock, I'll be making the food a hosting a "night as a princess" teaparty, etc.

Now here is where I need your help ... Some of you who may have been at the larger installations or have been a spouse for a while may have seen those little gift bags with various items in them and a card that says something like: "The hershey's kiss represents the love you give, the band-aid represents the care you give, etc." I cannot find the card that I had from the ones we did for the MP spouses at Fort Polk, so if anyone has a copy of it or knows what I'm talking about, can you please post it in the comments so we can add that to the stuff we give the spouses?

Also, if ANYONE has any ideas of other affordable gift ideas, please feel free to post your ideas. I'll post the activites after the party and some pictures so you can all see how it turned out.

Thank you in advance!




This is the military spouse coin. Unfortunately at $25 each, all I can share is a picture!

Proud of Our Troops

I know that many of us often recieve emails forwarded from friends who recieved it from another friend and so forth of stories showing pride and support for our troops deployed.

Though I can't give out much information, it is publicly known that troops from the U.S. to include our base (which has servicemembers from all branches of the military) and my husband's command are currently in Haiti helping with aide and recovery missions for the Hatian people. Earlier the fFmilies in our unit recieved this message from one of the officers in leadership and I thought it a blessing to pass along to my blog friends ...

"The Chaplain and I hear everyday, how our young men and women have stepped up (again) and shown themselves to be a proud representation of our country.

An example, is how that on one late cool night, there was this little homeless Haitian boy, sleeping outside on rocks and gravel - at one of hte Embassy Marine guard post. Because of his orders, a young Marine who was standing close to the boy, could not offer the child any cover, food or drink for comfort. After several passing hours, upon returning to our camp location, Chaplain T*** was amazed to find that the little child was still there sleeping, along with the Marine who was
still standing quietly beside him. The Chaplain, understanding the protocols of the order, asked the young Marine why he felt the need to remain standing beside that shivering sleeping child. This is what the young Marine in a heartfelt manner said, "Chaplain, I know that I am ordered to not give this little boy or anyone else any offerings, but I felt that while this little guy is asleep ... that I could make sure that he would be protected"."

May God bless the lives of our troops who are willing to serve others, even at the sacrifice of time with their own Families. Our nation is great because of people like them.

Until our next cup of tea ...

A Chance Encounter ...

Greetings dear friends. It has been a few days since my last post, well nearly a week really. I promise to do better, but I think with this post you will find the wait worth it.

As some of you know, this weekend my beloved husband and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary. Though many wives would have objected, I was thrilled when my husband presented me with 46 sessions with a personal trainer at the post gym. As my closest friends know, I had been athletic all though high school and even college, maintaining some of it as I adjusted to my new life as an Army wife. I'd managed to stay relatively active (and happy with myself) until about a year ago. A new job, another deployment, finishing my masters, and volunteering in the community had left me getting less and less time at the gym.

It was the once place I could go and get lost in myself (there is something indimidating about interrupting an person with an MP3 player on). I could let go of all the stress and just "go to my happy place." But when I started to lose that time I began to get discouraged. After (george's) dad died, I tried to spend as little time with my thoughts as possible, so I only worked out with George and when out schedules would allow.

Lately I'd been looking for a way to get back to where I had been, so my husband bought me the sessions as a way to help me get there. Most wives might have been offended, but I was happy he listened. I've got enough jewelry and a closet full of trinkets, but this was something that could help me reach a goal

So Monday was my first day. Iwas anxious and excited, but when i left I was satisfied and in pain. My arms still hurt from that workout and I have another upper body workout tomorrow, but you're probably wondering about the "chance encounter" part.

Well, yesterday I met my trainer for a day on lower body (I go three times a week). He was just finishing up with his previous client, so after a few minutes of warm-up on the treadmill we got to work. As we started the workout, his previous client came over. My trainer had told me he was a paralympic athlete who'd participated in the 2008 Olympic games. He stayed, giving my trainer new ideas for an ab workout. It was a grueling workout to say the least, but there was just something about his attitude that made me want to keep pushing through the pain. I was a little intimidated by him, but only during the ab workout.

When I got home, like any good investigative journalist, I did some research and found that Scott Winkler was a Soldier injured while deployed in 2003. NBC had a brief documentary about Scott. Though I'm still feeling the effects of the workout, it was a great experience.

Until our next cup of tea ...

Complaining about the easy life …

On my way to work this morning I passed a group of Soldiers who had obviously been at the nearby Shoppette (civilian version of gas station) from the bags of treat they carried and were walking back to the railhead about three-quarters of a mile away. At first I saw three and thought to stop and offer them a ride, but looking ahead I saw a much larger group. Living near the railhead, I knew that most likely they were on break from either loading or unloading the train cars. Their chatter and laughter was evident even from inside my vehicle and it caused me to think.

We (Americans) live in a world of luxury and ease. We read the news, watch on TV or hear stories of poverty, despair and destruction, but these Soldiers have seen it with their own eyes. When I compare our trivial issues to what they endure I am ashamed.

We complain when we wait 45 minutes for our food to be brought to the table when we eat at restaurants, but when is the last time we had to walk a mile to a dining facility just to get a hot meal.

We are irritated and put out when the TV in the next room or neighbor’s apartment is too loud and keeps us from sleeping, but when is the last time we had mortars and bombs interrupt our sleep?

We complain when we have to haul bags of groceries up flights of stairs because the elevator is broken, but when is the last time we had to walk from our room to the bathroom with a rifle and 70 pounds of protective gear?

We scream, curse and rant at driving in rush hour traffic, but when is the last time we had to travel in a single file convoy at 35 MPH, guns ready, eyes scanning the horizon praying feverishly that the vehicles in the front and back of us carrying our friends doesn’t suddenly explode from an unseen bomb?

We complain when our children drag mud and dirt onto our clean floors, but when is the last time we had to wait out a dust storm, sand swirling around us, darkness overshadowing us thankful that at least we’ve got shelter to keep out of the wind.

We complain that our children have once again spread all of their clothes and toys about their room, but when is the last time we lived out of a green duffle bag, clothes spread out to “air out” so we can wear them “one more” day before going to the laundry.

We get frustrated at the clutter on the fridge door as collections of prized artwork and good grades fall to the ground when the door is opened, but when is the last time we taped up those same pictures and schoolwork because it was the only link we had to our loved ones.

When you think about all that we have, yet still manage to find reasons to complain, it sounds so trivial and childish … nay, it sounds selfish and greedy. How does a country who has come so far in freedoms of its people, manage to be burdened by the very things that we take for granted.

Tonight, when the children leave their wet towels on the floor after their bath, or you pick up dirty dishes from the table long after everyone has gone off to their separate activities, don’t complain or grumble that once again YOU have to do everything. Be happy that you have people in your life who are your EVERRYTHING and that caring for them is a great gift from God.

You don’t know what you have until it’s gone, and military Families learn that lesson with every separation and deployment.

Until our next cup of tea ...

Here's to our country's heroes ...

When we think of veterans we think mostly of elderly men and women sitting around animatedly sharing stories of wars long ago. Their eyes glazed over as they are momentarily transported back to a time when their vivid memories first evolved. They speak with a reverence of their fallen comrades and grin with laughter as they recall those who managed to rise above the terrors of war to provide a moment of laughter for others. They carry with them the legacy of America's greatest and most terrifying moments.

Today's veterans hold the same vivid memories, same battle scars and same pain of loss, but instead they are 18, 19, 20 years old, war weary, but proud of their duty to their country. Today's miitary Families are as strong as those who've gone before them, mindful of the legacy they carry with them. Years from not these heroes will be the silver-haired story-tellers lookig for someone to listen. I pray someone will be there to listen with an open heart and free of judgement.

Happy Veteran's Day!

Until our next cup of tea ...

Honoring Unsung Heroes

Time is running out to nominate outstanding military spouses for Military Spouse magazine's 2009 Military Spouse of the Year award.

As the Oct. 8 deadline approaches, 252 Army spouses had been nominated at last count, along with 74 Navy and 70 Air Force spouses. The Coast Guard, with 22 nominations, was edging out the Marine Corps by one nominee.

The Military Spouse of the Year honoree represents millions of unsung heroes who maintain the home front, give selflessly to their communities and provide support to the nation's troops.

The winner will make additional public appearances, write a monthly column to appear in Military Spouse magazine, and maintain a blog during his or her reign, which will last through May 2010.

Last year's award generated hundreds of nominations from across the country, culminating in the selection of Army wife Chelle Brewer as Military Spouse of the Year for 2008.

Nominees must be the spouse of a current member of the U.S. armed forces. Criteria for selecting the winner include impact on community change, volunteerism, personal sacrifice, education and career pursuits and other military spouse-related efforts.

Nominations can be made online at www.msoy.milspouse.com, and must be received by Oct. 8.

The winner will be announced nationally in the magazine's June issue and will be honored during the second annual Military Spouse of the Year awards ceremony here in conjunction with National Military Spouse Appreciation Week in May.

The Military Spouse of the Year award is sponsored by USAA, a financial services company that serves military members and their families.

Until our next cup of tea ...

Honor an American Hero

I’d met him four years ago, he wasn’t hard to miss … he was all business when on duty, but as soon as he was able, he was looking for some cute girl to snuggle with … his name was Bear and he was a Military Working Dog and one of my first assignments when I started working at the Fort Polk Guardian.

I may have met Ron, his handler that day, but I don’t remember. It would be a few months later, after a few more interactions with the Military Working Dogs or K-9 Section of the Military Police before I began remember encounters with him. But Bear was easy to notice and hard to forget.

I spent the next 4 years at the paper trying desperately to get permission to cover special topics regarding our MWD Section. I soon became friends with many of the handlers as I fought to tell their story. I always volunteered for those assignments.

One of my favorite memories was when Ron and Bear were set to deploy with another dog team. I remember the other team stood rigid, at attention, dog and handler demonstrating a seriousness that the discipline of Army life brings. But not Ron and Bear.

They stood there, side by side for the photo, smirks on they faces, like two best friends with a secret that no one knew but them. Like two pranksters waiting for their target to be had, their carefree attitude was contagious, outmatched only by their dedication to their job.

In the blink of an eye, I’d see these two friends, turn into a serious, deadly machine bent on completing their mission whether it was a training exercise or drug search. In interviewing Ron for articles, I’d learned just how determined these two were, despite their boyish charm. When Ron spoke of Bear, it was with love and respect. I imagine this was the same love and loyalty that brought them home safe from each deployment.

I remember when Ron’s wife Kim, whom worked with me at the Public Affairs Office, said that Bear was retiring. I was saddened that I wouldn’t get to see him in action any more but knew that he would live out his life in the love and luxury that Ron and Kim knew he deserved. And that he did. He went from leading Soldiers through deployment for 13 years to leading their family dogs and daughter into all sorts of imaginable trouble. I looked forward to the stories Kim shared when we worked together. I was sad the day I had to hug Ron, Kim and their beautiful angel goodbye as they headed to their next military assignment. I kept in touch, got pictures regularly and occasionally shared stories with others who knew them.

On Monday, Kim sent me an email, saying that this gentle giant had passed away. My heart ached for the loss they must have felt, but I chose instead to remember the laughter captured in photos in the face of their daughter as she learned to walk and became his ever present shadow. Yesterday, Kim shared her story in the Fort Campbell Courier …

In loving memory of our military working dog

Published in Fort Campbell Courier (July 10, 2008) --
By: KIM WARREN, Editor

(Photo by Kim Warren, Fort Campbell Courier)

This week the Army said goodbye to one of its finest Soldiers; my husband and I said goodbye to the single individual responsible for bringing us together.

Retired Sgt. 1st Class Bear, a U.S. Army military working dog, was laid to rest Monday at 10:49 a.m. after 14 years of life.

Bear was born into the Army in August 1994 and served honorably for 12 years.

The gentle giant was a patrol and narcotics dog. He’s been to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and a number of other locations home and abroad that others wouldn’t dare go. Bear served in more countries, saw more action and met more people than most Soldiers in their entire lifetime.

He had more than 1,000 drug finds in his day and has won dozens of competitions.

After much consideration and a lengthy review board my husband was able to adopt his partner, friend and battle buddy and bring him home. He was able to give Bear the civilian life he deserved.

The only thing that distinguished him from a civilian dog was his tattoo in his left ear, a permanent mark of his service to our country.

I remember when I first met Bear. I was escorting a local news reporter to do a story on him at Fort Polk, La. He had just returned from his last deployment to Afghanistan in February 2006.

I knew the moment I met Bear he was special. He was a big, black, puffy Belgian Shepherd, which is rare for a working dog. Most people relate a German shepherd with the war dog category.

I remember how intimidating he could be during demonstrations, but I can also recall how much of a teddy bear he was when he was able to play with the kids afterwards.

I can remember how nervous I was the day my husband brought him home for good, especially with two little dogs of my own.

Then I can also remember how happy I was the day I saw him finally getting to play with other dogs. He was fond of my Australian Shepherd female. I would enjoy watching the two of them out in the front lawn having a grand ole time. I also enjoyed the fact that I didn’t have to escort him back into a pen afterwards to sleep on a cold, hard cement floor.

For his final two years Bear was able to sleep on his own bed, in our bedroom, by my husband’s side without the noise of barking dogs disturbing his slumber.

He won my heart and the hearts of many, including my dogs. He was furry, friendly and the most intelligent dog I ever met.

He taught me what dogs are really capable of doing.

Bear’s motivation and loyalty never faltered. Every time he saw my husband dig through his gear he was up and ready to go. I guess he never realized that he didn’t have to anymore. That made it all the more fun when he would sniff me down at the front door after a grocery run while my husband was deployed.

My husband was able to work with Bear for four years and then relax with him for another two.

To this day there are still people that call us to find out how Bear is doing or for those that know, to offer their condolences.

Even after retirement my husband and I were pulled over with Bear in the car just so the sheriff could say hello. He recognized Bear as we drove on down the road.

Everyone wanted to make sure we were giving him the life he deserved after retirement. I can assure you we did.

I want to thank Bear for saving my husband’s life more than once; for removing a lot of the drugs off the streets at Fort Polk; for teaching me what a man’s best friend truly is; for bringing my husband warmth in the cold hills of Afghanistan; for bringing my husband and I together and giving us a wonderful family; and for being the most loyal dog I’ve ever met.

I’m just happy my husband was home from deployment to say his goodbyes and help Bear into his next life.

We’re sure going to miss him.

Until our next cup of tea ...

True American Heroes ...

I want to take a moment to wish the Families of America’s service members a happy Fourth of July.

It is on such occasions that we reflect and remember why we do what we do every day as Americans. Certainly it is easy to question weather you have given enough when so many have given so much more. The best we can do is wake up each morning and do the best that we can to live up to the title "American".

I am very proud of the Soldiers in which I am surrounded by. However, not all great Americans are Soldiers. Some of them are in the shadows doing everything they can to take care of those serving their great nation wearing the military uniform. This especially applies to the Families who support these Soldiers.

You are the ones who wait patiently at home for months on end, knowing that while you may need your Soldier, our country needs them more. You take on the role of mother and father, stepping in to ensure that their children know how much they are loved, even if their military parent cannot be there to tell them every day. You are the one who lives with the fear, the loneliness and stress, which is outweighed by your love and understanding.

Your efforts may seem small but they mean so much to ensure the success of our mission and our Soldiers. You have been of great assistance in helping our nation’s serve members prepare for war. Your dedication and sacrifice to this country does not go unnoticed. Your continued support is an inspiration to all who see you. We have great Soldiers because of the Families who stand beside them.

I salute you and your dedication and you truly are a patriot. Have a happy Fourth of July.

Until our next cup of tea ...

A Moment of Reflection ...

For those who are unaware, at a military theater, the National Anthem is played before every movie.

From a Chaplain in Iraq :
I recently attended a showing of 'Superman 3,' here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies, as well as memorial Services and other large gatherings. As is the custom back in the States, we stood and snapped to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was going as planned until about three-quarter of the way through The National Anthem the music stopped.

Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments; and everyone would sit down and call for a movie. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place. Here, the 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again . The Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you Expect to happen?

Even here I would imagine laughter, as everyone finally sat down and expected the movie to start. But here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every Soldier continued to stand at attention. Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand soldiers, finishing where the recording left off:
'And the rockets red glare, The bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night That our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O'er the land of the free And the home of the brave.'

It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here. Remember them as they fight for you!

Pass this along as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad. For many have already paid the ultimate price.

Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins
LSA Anaconda is at the Balad Airport in Iraq , north of Bagdad

Until our next cup of tea ...

Vipers step up to Carry the Torch

I never cease to be amazed by the Soldiers and Families of the Military Police Battalion and yesterday was no exception. At 6 a.m. May 21, I joined more than 40 Viper Soldiers as they gathered to run 42 miles to Alexandria carrying the Louisiana Special Olympics torch along with other local law enforcement volunteers.
It was an amazing sight to see as mile after mile the Soldiers stepped up carry the "torch of hope." It was encouraging to see civilians running alongside them, another example of how the local communities support Fort Polk's Soldiers and Families. My heart was touched as I saw the Soldiers encouraging the young children who ran alongside them, even though the slower pace must have made it more difficult for them. Their patience was only outdone by their determination and heart. In the past months I have come to regard this battalion as my Family, so to "my MPs" who were out there running and volunteering, "Thank you for showing the true spirit and heart of the Viper Battalion."

Here is the article that was published in the post newspaper.



-- Published in Fort Polk Guardian (June 6, 2008) --
By: MICHELLE LINDSEY, 519th Military Police Bn

A convoy of more than 15 military and law enforcement vehicles slowly rolled down Leesville's main street at 8 a.m. May 21. Sirens shrieked though the early morning silence as the bystanders looked on. Behind them nearly 100 runners, representing law enforcement agencies from Fort Polk, Leesville Police Department, Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office, Walden Security Forces, New Llano Police Department and Rosepine Police Department. Leading them was a group of Louisiana Special Olympics athletes carrying the Flame of Hope, the Special Olympics torch, representing the thousands of athletes, families and volunteers.

Soldiers of the 519th MP BN gathered with local law enforcement agencies for the 2008 Louisiana State Law Enforcement Torch Run in support of the Louisiana Special Olympics athletes. In Louisiana alone there are over 10,000 Special Olympians involved in year round sports training and athletic competitions, says the organization's web site, www.laso.org.

For the second consecutive year, the 519th Military Police Battalion has participated in the event running the torch 42 miles to Alexandria. Six Soldiers continued to carry the torch through to its final destination in Hammond, Louisiana where the Special Olympic Games were held this year. In Hammond, those Soldiers were able to cheer on the competitors and present them with medals and ribbons.

"Before the Vipers, Law Enforcement agents and Special Olympians could take off for Alexandria with the torch the Special Olympian Oath was read: 'Let me win but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,'" said Capt. Misty LaPlante, commander of 91st Military Police Battalion, 1st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, who participated in the run. "These inspiring words echoed in the minds of the runners as they faced the heat, dust and friendly competition along the route."

"Carrying the torch was a tremendous honor for the Vipers. Not only did it foster stronger community relations, it strengthened the bonds and professional relationship between all participating and supporting law enforcement agencies," she added. "Together, as a team, a dozen agencies and the Special Olympians ensured the safe passage of the torch and the passage of the Special Olympic Mission, which is to promote understanding, acceptance and inclusion between people with and without intellectual disabilities.

"This endurance run tested the metal and drive of the participants. The run also opened the eyes of the Soldiers to the challenges faced by the participants as well as the drive and motivation that thrives within each of the competitors, who have overcome so much in order to participate in this years games," LaPlante concluded.
The run culminated at the amphitheater in Alexandria, where the runners were welcomed and thanked by the Mayor of Alexandria. The Honorable Jacques Roy, commended the runners and thanked them for their participation. The real reward, however, for the runners, was the opportunity to interact with and shake the hands of the Special Olympians themselves.

"It was rewarding to be able to give a little of my time for something that meant so much to these young athletes," said Command Sgt. Major John Williamson, 519th Military Police Battalion command sergeant major. "It was a great opportunity for the Soldiers to give back to a community that supports them and to understand how giving of your time can make a difference in someone else's life. The 519th Military Police Soldiers look forward to more opportunities to thank our neighboring communities for their continued support."

Until our next cup of tea ...

My heart is aching ...

George left last night. When I can see through the tears, I'll write. Until then pray for a Soldier...

When a soldier comes home, he finds it hard to ...

When a Soldier comes home video.

I normally don't surf YouTube, but I "googled" a photo spread a fellow military spouse sent me and I found it in video format. It makes me cry, but in a good way. It reminds me of all that they give up for our freedoms.

Another friend emailed me and said that in support of what the Soldiers were giving up in this 15-month deployment, she was going to give up three things she loved until they returned. I thought it was a great way to show support, so after much though (and some tears) I have decided that when my husband leaves I will give up the three following things in support of him and his fellow Soldiers ...

1. Alcoholic beverages: it's really not as fun without my husband anyway
2. Sodas: it may hurt a little but I can do it
3. Chocolate: This one will hurt ... BAD! It means chocolate as a candy, cake, ice cream, garnish and beverage. Guess I'll be clutching coffee to ward off the cold this winter.

But then I got to thinking. In honor of the freedoms they fight for, maybe I should try three new things because as Americans we have the luxury of making choices, whereas in many other countries people are persecuted for going against their society. So in honor of their fight for our freedoms I will:

1. Try something new every month (they give up their hobbies and liberties to protect us)
2. Workout at least 4 days a week exercising (my husband had to run on a dirt track that surrounded the FOB when in Afghanistan)
3. Participate in at least two activities a month that include other spouses (support is a valuable asset during a deployment.)

I encourage other military spouses or supporters who'd like to join me in either giving up ar adding something to their routine in support of their Soldier to leave a comment. I'll encourage you and hope you will encourage me. We can get through it together far better than we can alone.

Until our next cup of tea ...



Editor's note: There was some lag with my web page so I'm hoping that by replacing the video feed with the link it will be better.

Helping families, Building stronger communities

Well I can't wait to get back into the groove of milblogging. I never realized how much therapy it was to write about "the life" and have feedback.

As part of my new job of working with families I have attend various training classes to learn more about the programs available through the Army for them. Two that I have taken this week.

One was the Care Team training. Care Team members are people who, after a family has been notified of a lost Soldier, volunteer to work - round the clock if needed - to assist the family with everything from picking up groeries to fielding calls to taking care of pets and/or children so the spouse can grieve in a process that is best for them. It takes tremendous strength and personal fortitude to put yourself in a place where you face the harsh realities of war.

The second class was a seminar on Domestic Violence. It was disheartening to learn about how close DV is to my own home, but it is a problem nationawide. It is just more "advertised" in the military world because it is so easy to pick on the negatives. But I was amazed at the many program put into service by the Army and Dept. of Defense to help the families. It made me feel better about helping families because there are so many others out there focused on helping families.

I am constantly amazed at the support that is provided by the military for the families. I can see how much has changed over the history of the military. Where it once was concern for the Soldier on a professional level it has moved more towards ensure the families are cared for as well. The moral of the Soldier and health of the family are equally as important as the training and professional aspect of the Soldier. It's great to know that we are important too.

Until our next cup of tea ...

Troops injured in battle honored as heroes

Editor's note: I have covered many ceremonies in my time at the Guardian. Many show the harsh realities of military life such as deployment ceremonies, others the happier such as welcome home ceremonies. But none bring the realities of war to light than Purple Heart ceremonies, where Soldiers, injured in battle are honored for their dedication.

-- Published in Fort Polk Guardian (Sept. 7, 2007) --
By: MICHELLE LINDSEY, Guardian staff writer

While on a routine night patrol in southwestern Baghdad Sept. 12, 2006, Private 1st Class Joshua Pettit, D Troop, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment, was manning a vehicle-mounted M2 heavy-barrel machine gun when the patrol was ambushed by a squad-sized element of insurgents armed with AK-47s and rocket propelled grenades. Pettit was struck in the chest by AK-47 fire, knocking him from his gunner position.

Disregarding his own safety, he immediately returned to his post and laid down suppressive fire on the enemy, foiling the ambush and causing the insurgents to retreat.

Pettit is one of nine Fort Polk Soldiers awarded a Purple Heart in a ceremony Aug. 31 at the Warrior Community Center. Pettit was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor for demonstrating exceptional courage under enemy fire.

“America's sons and daughters have answered the call to duty in this Global War on Terrorism, protecting our nation,” said Col. David Sage, Fort Polk garrison commander. “You are heroes of a modern day battle. A battle where terrorism is the accepted method of aggression, both against Soldiers and civilians.

“We are here to pay tribute to nine (service) members. These Soldiers have a great deal in common with the Soldiers of General George Washington's day -- volunteering to defend their country in its hour of need,” he added.

Sage said the warrior ethos of today's Soldiers is what ties them to the Soldiers of history -- their dedication to defend their country at the risk of personal sacrifice. He reminded the Soldiers honored at the ceremony that they now stand alongside other Purple Heart recipients in U. S. history, now considered American heroes.

“American Soldiers throughout the Army's 213 years have been cut from the same cloth. You are warriors. Your sense of warrior ethos and patriotism runs deep. Your country thanks you.”

Other Soldiers honored with a Purple Heart are:

-- Staff Sgt. Nathaniel Brown, A Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, for wounds sustained Dec. 7, 2006, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle while conducting convoy operations, resulting in multiple wounds to his right ankle and foot.

-- Sgt. Christopher Fodge, 204th Military Police Company, 519th Military Police Battalion, 1st Combat Support Brigade (ME), for wounds sustained Nov. 21, 2006, when a mortar detonated near his position at forward operating base Rustimyah, resulting in multiple wounds from shrapnel.

-- Sgt. Jovan Harris, 258th Military Police Company, 519th MP Bn, 1st CSB (ME), for wounds sustained Aug. 9, 2006, when his vehicle received a direct hit from an IED, resulting in shrapnel wounds to his face and left leg.

-- Sgt. 1st Class Mark Mackey, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, for wounds sustained March 7, 2007, when a command-wired IED detonated, resulting in a grade II concussion.

-- Spc. David Miller, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 519th MP Bn, 1st CSB (ME), for wounds sustained July 15, 2006, when his vehicle struck an IED, resulting in shrapnel wounds to his right arm.

-- Spc. Cindy Rosser, 91st Military Police Detachment, 519th MP Bn, 1st CSB (ME), for wounds sustained July 15, 2006, when her vehicle struck an IED, resulting in shrapnel wounds to her right leg.

-- Spc. Harry Thomas, 94th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, for wounds sustained as a gunner Dec. 18, 2006, when his vehicle was struck by a vehicle-borne IED, resulting in head wounds.

-- Sgt. 1st Class Charles Williams, D Company, 2nd Bn, 30th Inf Reg, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, for wounds sustained Nov. 28, 2006, when his platoon came under heavy enemy fire and his vehicle received two direct rocket propelled grenade hits, resulting in shrapnel wounds to his left hand and right cheek.

For more articles in the Fort Polk Guardian, visit our
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Hispanic Soldiers

The US Army website has a great feature regarding hispanic Americans in the Army.
Check it out:Hispanics in the Army link

Fort Polk families recover from Hurricane Rita

Soldiers from C Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, clear debris from the North Fort housing area Sept. 25. Downed trees, broken fences and damaged roofs were some of the challenges the community faced after Hurricane Rita hit around 10:30 p.m. Sept. 23.

-- Published in Fort Polk Guardian (10.4.05) --

As Fort Polk families slowly emerged from their hurricane-battered homes Sept. 25, Soldiers from the installation’s units were already hard at work removing debris from housing areas.
Downed power lines, fallen trees, broken fences and roof damage were some of the challenges Fort Polk residents faced after Hurricane Rita hit around 10:30 p.m. Sept. 23.
Many were without electricity and phone service while Fort Polk leaders worked throughout the storm to get things back on line.
“(Fort Polk) Soldiers and units have done a tremendous job with cleaning up,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Barbero, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, at a Hurricane Rita services information briefing held Wednesday at the Fort Polk Warrior Community Center.
He added that although leaders are still assessing the damage, cleanup was expected to be complete by Friday.
Pfc. Evan Guldenschuh, A Battery, 5th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, said it was important for Soldiers to help clean the community.
“This is our home,” he said.
Spc. Nicholas Threlkeld, A Btry, 5th Bn, 25th FA Reg, agreed.
“(We) have been pulling trees, getting rid of debris and trying to get the grounds back to where they were (before the hurricane).”
Both agreed that teamwork has been important as they work to clean post, whether that means working together to get things cleaned efficiently or making sure that everyone is safe at all times.
“Things will get done a lot faster if we work together rather than sitting around watching others do the work,” said Guldenschuh.
For both Guldenschuh and Threlkeld, Hurricane Rita was the first hurricane they had experienced.
Guldenschuh said his family stocked up on water, canned food and propane before the storm, but after a certain point there was nothing to be done, just hope to stay out of harm’s way.
Threlkeld said that they were fortunate that they had phone service and were able to talk to their families daily to reassure them of their safety.
First Lt. Kevin Hayes, A Btry, 5th Bn, 25th FA Reg, said that for many of the Soldiers the opportunity to do something was a relief.
“We worked around the housing areas where our some of own Soldiers lived so they were very motivated to help out,” he said. “The hurricane affected training, so they are happy just to be able to do some work.”
“We are just helping out our community,” said 1 Lt. Kevin Dagon, A Btry, 5th Bn, 25th FA Reg.
According to Barbero, the command’s priority was to get power restored, damaged roofs repaired and housing and barracks cleared of debris.
The final cleanup phase is to clear the training areas and ranges so that Soldiers can return to training as soon as possible.
As of Wednesday, power was restored to 90 percent of the housing areas and 80 percent of the installation. Force Provider was established to assist families living in Timber Ridge, the 801-leased housing area whose electricity is supplied by an outside company. Power for these families was restored Thursday.
Fort Polk and the surrounding towns were also faced with a gasoline shortage and Barbero said that post leaders are working with Army and Air Force Exchange Services to get fuel to the installation as soon as possible.
By Wednesday some fuel was being brought in, but Barbero asked that the community be patient as they work to get things back to pre-hurricane conditions.

Staff Sgt. Michael Peasgood, A Company, Brigade Support Troop Battalion, 4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, cuts down a tree damaged by Hurricane Rita at Airborne Chapel. Soldiers from Fort Polk units could be seen clearing debris throughout the installation following the storm.

Hurricane Update: A community's hope restored

In the aftermath of Hurricane Rita, the Soldiers at Fort Polk rallied together with the community to help the installation get back on its feet. Early Sunday Morning (Sept. 25) following the storm trucks and Soldiers could be seen throughout the housing areas clearing fallen trees, picking up remnants of destroyed fences and cleaning up broken roof shingles.
They were a constant presence throughout the following week, whether handing out ice or driving through the neighborhoods to make sure all of the families were cared for.
Community leaders worked tirelessly to ensure that power was restored, nearly a week sooner than the adjacent towns. The Main Post Chapel staff and volunteers handed out thousands of dollars in food vouchers, baby items and other donations to families in need.
Those who lived in 801-government housing (off-post housing areas) were supplied with large air-conditioned tents so they would have a place to wait out the heat as crews worked to restore power.
Now, one week later the community is beginning to get back to its regular routine, but I think it will be much longer before those who live at Fort Polk forget the teamwork and dedication of the Soldiers and contractors who helped restore the post.
Below are just some of the photos I took the week following the disaster.
To learn more about the efforts of the community in the aftermath of Hurricane Rita pick up a copy of the Special Edition, Oct. 4 Fort Polk Guardian.

256th Soldier honored with Purple Heart

-- Published Article (9.16.05) --

He stood at attention, hand raised in salute as national anthem played.
Despite the Louisiana heat, friends, family and fellow Soldiers gathered to honor Spc. Robert Anderson, 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Brigade Combat Team, Louisiana National Guard, as he received the Purple Heart Sept. 9 for injuries sustained during a deployment to Iraq. He is a native of Dubberly, La.,
On June 29, 21-year-old Anderson and his squad members were tasked with escorting detainees to a detention center in the Gazalia District of Baghdad when the M-113 armored personnel carrier where he was gunner was attacked by multiple improvised explosive devices, detonating on either side of the vehicle.
Shrapnel from the explosion struck his Kevlar helmet resulting in blunt force trauma to the brain. The concussion of the IEDs caused him to be thrown from the vehicle, striking his head.
“I was just doing my job,” he said quietly as he sat beside his wife and 3-month old son. Anderson added that he doesn’t consider himself a hero.
But Brig. Gen. Michael Barbero, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, said Anderson was just that.
“We are here to pay tribute to a Soldier whose service illustrates the highest ideal of selfless service and love of country,” Barbero said.
“Since December 2001, thousands of Fort Polk and Louisiana Soldiers have deployed to support the Global War on Terrorism and the 256th Brigade of the Louisiana National Guard is just now redeploying from one tough year of combat in Baghdad in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“Specialist Anderson, you are a member of an elite group of Soldiers, heroes who have been in the midst of the Global War on Terror for more than a year,” he added.
“When I first met Specialist Anderson a few weeks ago as he arrived here, I was impressed with his attitude and humility,” Barbero continued.
“He embodies the American patriot described by Thomas Paine at the birth of our nation (when he said) ‘I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. ‘Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.’
“Specialist Anderson, we know you are still healing from your wounds and I know you and the other members of the Louisiana National Guard are facing additional challenges visited upon southeast Louisiana by Hurricane Katrina.
But take comfort in the knowledge that we are inspired by your selfless service and those of your comrades,” Barbero stated.
He added that Soldiers of the 256th should be honored for their sacrifices on America’s behalf.
“They put their lives on hold to answer their nation’s call, some with their lives, to help others live free,” Barbero said.
Anderson said he has no plans to leave the military, but instead chooses to continue serving his remaining three-year commitment. This was his first deployment. He has been with the National Guard for three years.
Samantha, his spouse, said she was notified of the attack by her mother-in-law, adding that it was about a month before he returned to the United States and his family was able to see him.
During a year-long deployment, 35 Soldiers of the 256th died and others were wounded, including Anderson.
Spc. Robert Anderson (second from right), 3rd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Brigade Combat Team, Louisiana National Guard, is awarded the Purple Heart in a ceremony Sept. 9 for injuries sustained during a deployment to Iraq. (Brig. Gen. Micheal D. Barbero, second from left, commander of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk presents him with the award.)