Chain Of Honour

[TerryW]

There are comments made, or so I've read
that those out fighting need their own special thread.
It needs to be strong to forever remain,
so instead of a thread I've made it a chain.

It's a place we can come whenever we need
to find all the names and stories to read
of the men and the women who valiantly serve,
it's the provision of a place that they all deserve.

There's no room for nations, places or states
cause in war they're just buddies, comrades and mates
The powerful and the rich don't have a place here
this is for the troops that we all hold so dear.

There are errors and mistakes in all walks of life
that hit the front pages just to make strife.
So If you mean grief go and cast the first stone
because here you will find that you cast it alone.

No one really knows what started this war
or what fuel has been added to make it soar,
but it's here, and it's real, and it's 24/7
the answer is locked down somewhere in heaven.

So regardless of age or race or belief,
here's just a small place you may find relief.
A place you can ponder and show some respect
to those we can never afford to neglect.

By adding a name you won't end the war
or even understand what their fighting for,
but a name or photo placed here in peace
can provide much comfort, calm and release.

[TerryW]

In another thread under 'Discussions', Jazz wrote:

I find out everyday that there are many many of our SBM family that have loved ones serving in the military and have been deployed to fight in the war. I think it would be a great idea if you could set up a special forum where their names can be posted. We can add them to our prayer list by name and perhaps send them emails or do whatever the family wants..it would be our way of showing we appreciate them and support them...to let them know they are special to us...Anyone else have any comments on this..

When I read this I thought it was a great idea and whilst this is not quite what Jazz was suggesting, it does provide a place where we can mention family who are currently on Active Duty, from any nation, serving anywhere in the world.

It is my demonstration of the thanks that my family and I offer every individual currently performing their duties, under order of their superiors, for the greater good of mankind and, to their families who anxiously await their return.

Please use this CHAIN freely in consideration of the guidence within the words of the opening poem.

Respectfully,
TerryW.

[kimbob]

Oh Terry this is fantastic.. what a wonderful poem too., you have such a natural way with words and I absolutely loved it.. I for one don't know much about the war personally,(only what I've read or been told about) but I think that this will bring comfort for many.
Love
Kim

[Shelbz]

I served our country with dignity and pride and passed on that torch, now......

My darling husband has been serving this country for a little over 10 years now. He is currently serving on his fourth deployment over in Iraq. I have witnessed first hand the stress and the turmoil that our young men and women go through each and every day. Most of them do it with a respect and dignity that is unmatched among others. We sometimes take for granted those who serve and look down on them. As was the case during Vietnam. I have the utmost respect and love for each and every member of our armed forces. No matter what their job is they do it to make our country and our childrens worlds a safer place..I start this name chain with the name of the man that i stand beside and all those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice through the years....


SGT. Barrett, Chad

[mh51]

Terry / Shelbz

I have immense admiration for your way with words.

Lots of us (I'm sur) know what we would LIKE to say at times, but just CANNOT express it the way you both have.

Well done.

Mary

[Marion]

Good idea to bring this thread back Terry. My son served a year in Iraq. He is been in the military for 16 years now. I just hope they don't call him back anytime soon! He injured his back and is still suffering from it.

[nanwu]

Thanks Terry, being spouse of a serving member who has been deployed several times I really appreciate the special thought put into a thread like this. The words at the beginning of this thread are wonderful

[eye]

The poem is Breathless. Thank you for sharing and what a great idea for this thread. You are so smart.I guess by now you know we all look up to you.:D

[jazzieal]

Terry, the poem is beautiful..Im so glad you did this..I tried to get a thread going awhile back but didnt get much response...I am sure there is a way we can send emails to our servicemen and women...maybe someone alredy knows and can pass it along to us..if not I will see if I can research it and find out...Its been on my mind for a long time that with all the turmoil about the war going on here..we need to let them know we are praying for them, support them, and care about them, my prayer is that they will bring them all home before more and more are killed..I feel that the turmoil that is going on in those countries has been going on since Biblical times and will go on till the Lord comes back..I know there are people there who want a democracy but I dont think it will ever happen..oh me..I better shut up before I get in trouble..I pray for peace..:)
If you have loved ones there or know of anyone there please post their names...
Shelby..I know your husband is there..do you know of a way we can email them??
I dont expect them to email us back but just to let them know we are here and care..

[AmeliasMuma]

I'm so moved by this thread already. As I read I feel goose bumps working their way up my arms. I know people who have served but no one who is serving right now. My father was on compulsory national service as an electrical engineer for 2 years. His Uncle lies somewhere unknown and there is an empty grave with his name on the head stone in a graveyard close to where he lived. My Grandfather spent years in a Japanese PoW camp during WWII and after the war in Japan finished he was sent to New Zealand for 6 months to convalesce because he was in such an appalling condition.

I had to retype the start because I said that I know no one who is serving or has served. My mind is so much on the wars of today that sometimes the wars of the past and those who fought in them tend to blend away. I often put my Grandfathers story to the back of my mind for it is not a good memory. I once went to a web site with stories from British service men who were interned to Japanese PoW camps and I could not get past the 1st paragraph of the 1st story. It broke my heart. These stories need to be told but I am not strong enough to read them yet.

Just reading that one paragraph though makes me think of those who have fought and those who are out there fighting now as twice the heroes i used to think they were. They may not think of themselves as heroes and I have often heard the saying "I'm not a hero, I'm an ordinary person doing extra ordinary things". Well I'd like to say thank you to each and everyone of you. I think you are all heroes. In my book anyone who does extra ordinary things [fire fighters, police, paramedics, coast guard, armed forces etc.] is a hero. Thank you just doesn't seem to quantify the gratitude I have for all those men and women who fight in one way or another for freedom. I'm afraid they are the only words I can think of right now and know in my heart that the thanks I have is good enough for those heroes out there.

Thank you Terry for starting this thread with such great words .... dang I've waffled on. Hope you all don't mind.

If there is a way that we can email service men and women in the field that would be fantastic.

[*eng*]

It is a wonderful thread. I have no connections but feel deeply for those who have. I went to boarding school where a lot of my friends were from families posted all over the world. They used to go home in the holidays to places like Baghdad. I wonder how many of them at the school now have parents serving in these troubled times, I don't remember there being any trouble when I was at school.

[TerryW]

I know your husband is there..do you know of a way we can email them??
I dont expect them to email us back but just to let them know we are here and care..

I think this is important - the one way e-mails - because they have limited time to use communication technologies and this should be reserved for their families. During the olympics Australia sets up a 'Hero Fax' programme where we can send fax's and e-mail support to the athletes - totally one way.

All of your complimets are gratefully acknowledged and deeply appreciated but my preference is that the emphasis here goes towards those on active duty or, who have fallen or been wounded carrying out their duties in the many current conflicts throughout the world and this includes police and emergency service men and women as well as those in the various military branches from so many countries.

Terry.

[nanwu]

Here is my add on to the the chain

WO1 Baldwin, Michael

[OnieRN]

I served in the Air Force around 1977-1979 then was out of the service for 14 yrs then Commissioned as an Army Nurse in 1993.

My son-in-law (Dean) came home the end of August 2006 and is getting ready to deploy for his 3rd tour to Iraq. Leaving my daughter and grandchildren behind again. While he was home this time, he was sent off to school for 4 months and just got back.

My Nephew Brad just got out of his training and is preparing to ship to Iraq in July.

My step son Bobby was brought home in 2004 with serious injuries and being awared the Purple Heart.

I now work with Middle School Children at Ft Bliss, whose parents are deployed in Iraq at this time.

I love living in a Military community because I feel that I can still serve by working with the military children and their families.

This has been a very hard war with so many sacrafices! I just pray we can bring this to a closure in the near future!

[Shelbz]

After reading this thread today i spoke to the acting chaplain in my husbands company.He thought that the idea behind this although a great one has a few flaws. He said that since internet time is so limited due to the increased violence, and the schedules that the troops are keeping the e mails may not get the dissemination that we are looking for. So i am wondering if maybe we as a community could make layouts complete with the thoughts and the words that would be included in those e mails. Then once they are complete they can all be put into a slideshow and can then be sent to the Chaplain on site and he will make sure that the slideshow is seen during sermons and services as well as during down time. This way everyone will get the chance to see what the world (well those in our community) have to say to those serving our country. Although it would be a small amount of the entire military family, it would still bring smiles to their faces and remind them once more that they have our support. This slideshow can then be copied and sent to each individual unit. I can be point woman for this if it is something that you ladies and gentlemen choose to make happen. Please let me know your thoughts on this!!!

[jazzieal]

I think that is a great idea..I could take them all and make them into a DVD..and send it to you to send to him..just anything to let them know they have our support, love and prayers..

[TerryW]

The poem I wrote is original and, if it is considered suitable, I am happy for anyone to do a L/O using it. I'm sort of thinking I may do something along those lines time permitting.

With the greatest respect, let us all remember that this isn't America's war, Australia was deliberately attacked (off homeland soil admittedly but it was Australians that were targeted) with great loss of life and horific injuries. The United Kingdom, Spain and other countries have also been directly attacked and, every nation faces the same terror as does any other. Our precious Rosana faces this terror every day - the foundation on which the acts of violence are committed in her country may differ from that of some other countries but the terror exists none the less. In Rosana's country loyal police officers fall in the line of duty every day fighting the same war as our military personell do in other theatres of war.

I love the US, look back at some of my posts, I am not just saying this here - I don't know why but maybe I was born in the wrong country - I am fiercly proud to be Australian and I am as fiercly proud to know that our troops are standing not only in defence of my country but also, that they stand arm in arm and shoulder to shoulder with the troops of many nations, especially those against whom the most grave threats have been made such as the United States and the United Kingdom.

This is not World War III, this is Global Terrorism War I and that terror can come from within just as surely as from without. NO politics, NO religion, this is a war being fought for the greater good of mankind - globally. And I am not convinced the politicians fully acknowledge that.

I hope that what I am trying to relay here is clear in my words - Terror is Terror - it doesn't come with any other badge or tag it simply is.

Ladies - do what you do best to let them know we care and that they have not only our support, but our unending gratitude!

Terry.

[jazzieal]

I'm so moved by this thread already. As I read I feel goose bumps working their way up my arms. I know people who have served but no one who is serving right now. My father was on compulsory national service as an electrical engineer for 2 years. His Uncle lies somewhere unknown and there is an empty grave with his name on the head stone in a graveyard close to where he lived. My Grandfather spent years in a Japanese PoW camp during WWII and after the war in Japan finished he was sent to New Zealand for 6 months to convalesce because he was in such an appalling condition.

I had to retype the start because I said that I know no one who is serving or has served. My mind is so much on the wars of today that sometimes the wars of the past and those who fought in them tend to blend away. I often put my Grandfathers story to the back of my mind for it is not a good memory. I once went to a web site with stories from British service men who were interned to Japanese PoW camps and I could not get past the 1st paragraph of the 1st story. It broke my heart. These stories need to be told but I am not strong enough to read them yet.

Just reading that one paragraph though makes me think of those who have fought and those who are out there fighting now as twice the heroes i used to think they were. They may not think of themselves as heroes and I have often heard the saying "I'm not a hero, I'm an ordinary person doing extra ordinary things". Well I'd like to say thank you to each and everyone of you. I think you are all heroes. In my book anyone who does extra ordinary things [fire fighters, police, paramedics, coast guard, armed forces etc.] is a hero. Thank you just doesn't seem to quantify the gratitude I have for all those men and women who fight in one way or another for freedom. I'm afraid they are the only words I can think of right now and know in my heart that the thanks I have is good enough for those heroes out there.

Thank you Terry for starting this thread with such great words .... dang I've waffled on. Hope you all don't mind.

If there is a way that we can email service men and women in the field that would be fantastic.

Thank you Muma for this beautiful post..you put into words so many of the feelings I have in my heart..first about your Grandfather..I know how you feel..I have a tattered box with a purple heart and a bullet that were my dads..it came from the Battle of Iwo Jima..my dad lived with the horrors of that till he drew his last breath...all the men and women who served then are my heros..they are dying everyday by the thousands..their stories and their memory should always be kept alive..The Korean conflict is the same..
I many be wrong, but everytime I see something I can reply to about heros, I will always tell about my dad..Vietnam was the war of my generation..I lost many of my friends there..all those brave souls are my heroes also..Today we fight a war, although not officially called WWIII..it is.. in a sense.. just the same..it is a world wide war on terrorism..countries great and small..are losing its countrymen everyday and they are all heroes..this war is different for the US because for the first time we found out first hand what other countries live with on a daily basis..9/11 changed us all..EVERY person..who in any shape form or fashion is fighting this war on terrorism are heroes and should never be forgotten..and should be told how important they are..the ones who have lost their lives fighting against it should always be honored..I dont know anyone personally who fights today but I am thankful I can come to a place like this that I can tell them how much they mean to me and I feel.. one way or the other..they will know..
Rosana..my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family..what terror you must live with on a daily basis.Terry my friend, I realize this may not be the kind of post you intented to be put here..but well these things were on Mumas mind and in her heart and on mine also..I had been wanting to mention my dad here but hadnt got around to it..and forgive me if I ever gave the impression that this was only America's war..Im very proud our country and yours and the United Kingdom are together in this war on terrorism..I know how proud you are to be Australian and with good reason..Australia is a wonderful country and one I have always loved and hope one day to visit.Thank you again Terry for starting this forum..and for all your other contributions to the SBM community...
Well Muma, I guess Ive waffled on myself..thats 2 times in less than a day Ive seen that word..lol never heard it before I dont think..:) :)

[TerryW]

Terry my friend, I realize this may not be the kind of post you intented to be put here..but well these things were on Mumas mind and in her heart and on mine also..I had been wanting to mention my dad here but hadnt got around to it..and forgive me if I ever gave the impression that this was only America's war..

Jazz,

You have given no such impression what-so-ever Jazz, my comment was general not specific because it is the way I SEE IT (and I am but one man). As for whether this is the kind of post intended - it is most definately.

It is the kind of post that these brave souls we respectfully and lovingly mention here are fighting for - one of freedom, of choice, of individuality and yet - one of solidarity, one of kinship - global kinship. One that by it's very existence places proof evident that we, as a free people have rights void of the fear of reprisal.

Thank you for mentioning you father, and for honouring him here. Jazz, I am sure it is evident by now that my feelings echo yours.

My post was simply a reminder that we are all in this together, this SBM community is global, so is this Chain of Honour!

My greatest fear was that there may be those who would poison this Chain by introducing Politics or Religion, or the policy makers and it is non of these things - it is very simply about those who, as a result of their jobs, their careers, face and fight a common enemy. Although by different names throughout many theatres of war over generations - today we call this enemy terror.

I agree with you Jazz, 9/11 was without doubt the catalyst, it was the point at which the world was able to recognise the immensity of this. I literally stayed glued to the television for 3 days solid in total disbelief - and I mean I stayed glued to it, eating and sleeping right there on the couch - the personal impact was immense. I can't explain why, I don't try to but this one event in history was without doubt the most intense of my entire life. It has not destroyed me, nor left me emotionally or psychologically crippled it simply impacted extremely strongly upon me, moreso than any other.

Ameliasmuma, thank you for contributing here, your comments are just the sort of thing I was hoping for, a little bit of release. They are all heroes in my opinion as well and I think you hit the nail on the head with your comments.

This Chain can be whatever the masses want - as long as it is with honour and respect.

Terry

[AmeliasMuma]

My greatest fear was that there may be those who would poison this Chain by introducing Politics or Religion, or the policy makers and it is non of these things - it is very simply about those who, as a result of their jobs, their careers, face and fight a common enemy. Although by different names throughout many theatres of war over generations - today we call this enemy terror.

Terry

I believe this chain of honour will continue with just that, honour and respect. It is a place for names and memories. A place were we can honour and respect the heroes of [as you stated] any service in any war. Again thank you for starting the thread :)

[jazzieal]

After reading this thread today i spoke to the acting chaplain in my husbands company.He thought that the idea behind this although a great one has a few flaws. He said that since internet time is so limited due to the increased violence, and the schedules that the troops are keeping the e mails may not get the dissemination that we are looking for. So i am wondering if maybe we as a community could make layouts complete with the thoughts and the words that would be included in those e mails. Then once they are complete they can all be put into a slideshow and can then be sent to the Chaplain on site and he will make sure that the slideshow is seen during sermons and services as well as during down time. This way everyone will get the chance to see what the world (well those in our community) have to say to those serving our country. Although it would be a small amount of the entire military family, it would still bring smiles to their faces and remind them once more that they have our support. This slideshow can then be copied and sent to each individual unit. I can be point woman for this if it is something that you ladies and gentlemen choose to make happen. Please let me know your thoughts on this!!!
I think this is a wonderful idea...I posted my 1st page today...Im planning on making some more..so Im hoping you all will join me..I get excited thinking about them watching a dvd or slide show and the smiles we will put on their faces..I think we will reach a lot more by doing this than sending some emails..

[crops2dawn]

First of all I want to appologize... and please bare with me, When I first read this thread I got chills down my spine, I for one do not know anyone so I thought not to respond, not that I am not praying for all those men and woman fighting, cause I do every evening!! I have not looked back on here, which I should of! For that I am really sorry. Sometimes I just dont think right!! Secondly I am sooo PROUD of all you people! I really am, you all are the most generous, kind, loving people anywhere!!
I think this a wonderful thread!!!
Although I have no name to put in here, My heart and soul feels for everyone that is out there! They are ALL HEROS!! May God Bless each and everyone out there fighting for the war on terrorism.
What an excellent Idea to make a slideshow!
Thanks to all of you! I certainly will do something even if its just a smile for a minute for someone!
Ok, I am done rambling, I am not good when it comes to sentimental things, I always feel like I will say the wrong thing or give the wrong impression. that people will not understand exactly what I mean, but knowing all you peeps you'd all just smack me in the head and say whats the matter with you! haha

[jazzieal]

First of all I want to appologize... and please bare with me, When I first read this thread I got chills down my spine, I for one do not know anyone so I thought not to respond, not that I am not praying for all those men and woman fighting, cause I do every evening!! I have not looked back on here, which I should of! For that I am really sorry. Sometimes I just dont think right!! Secondly I am sooo PROUD of all you people! I really am, you all are the most generous, kind, loving people anywhere!!
I think this a wonderful thread!!!
Although I have no name to put in here, My heart and soul feels for everyone that is out there! They are ALL HEROS!! May God Bless each and everyone out there fighting for the war on terrorism.
What an excellent Idea to make a slideshow!
Thanks to all of you! I certainly will do something even if its just a smile for a minute for someone!
Ok, I am done rambling, I am not good when it comes to sentimental things, I always feel like I will say the wrong thing or give the wrong impression. that people will not understand exactly what I mean, but knowing all you peeps you'd all just smack me in the head and say whats the matter with you! haha

Croppie...I dont know anyone either...It just came to one day when I saw so many postings in the gallery about family members serving overseas...we should have a thread or something to post about them..who they are..where they are..and things like that..it didnt go over that way and just fizzled..then Terry picked up on it and wrote the beautiful poem and started it over...we only got 2 names put in there but it helped to have names to go with our prayers..we wanted to do somethng...to let our troops and those of other countries serving..know that we are thinking about them and standing behind them..praying for them..shelby got on the ball and talked to a chaplin and they came up with the idea of the slide show or a dvd..when its done she will send to the chapin of the unit..he will play it during sermons, get togethers, down time and whenever possible..he will make copies of it and pass it on to other units..I know it will put smiles on their faces when they see the pages and know we care..soooo just get your creative little hiney in gear and make some of those purty pages you are so good at making ....love ya girl

[TerryW]

C2D,


I always feel like I will say the wrong thing or give the wrong impression. that people will not understand exactly what I mean, but knowing all you peeps you'd all just smack me in the head and say whats the matter with you! haha

I feel the same and I have messed up here a bit as well - I originally thought 'just for those on active duty' but then I thought - well what about the others so then I commented on that and now - back to those on active duty. I am sorry for the confusion - I have always accepted accountable for my actions and rightfully so - not whipping myself so no encouragement is needed just being 100% honest and that is something I do very well. I also felt very bad about whether my comment re 'not just being America's war' has upset some - that was a risk I took for no reason other than (and you guys may not be aware of this) the Aussie troops are getting a beating from the masses at home as well and, my inlaws in the UK have said their troops as well are copping it. It's not right that people do this (target the troops) in my opinion, it doesn't matter what country it is these people are out actually risking their lives for us because of their jobs and those above them in Canberra, or Washington or London or wherever - those political/military bosses sit in their cosy offices safe and sound - setting the rules - I've never understood the people who target the troops - like the Vietnam conflict - why did our troops (US, Aussie, Poms, ALL our troops) have to suffer that way - they were doing their jobs. And I always believe that if these same people (those who say and do such caustic things to the troops) found their country over run they would be the first to complain. Say all you want about the hierachy but leave our troops alone. In the poem I specifically mention casting the first stone and this was because - yes, sometimes mistakes are made or the pressure builds too much but I challenge anyone to tell me a job or profession where errors in judgement don't occur.

If this message offends anyone simply report it and Gracie will remove it and - I'll take a ban from the site altogether if necessary but I WILL stand by these valiant men and women regardless of the cost to me - that's my contribution to their efforts. I show MY respect by leaving personal opinions about politics and religion out of what I say - this is not the place for that - this has NOTHING to do with policitcs or religion - it's about speaking up for every member of the services and letting them know - WE DO CARE, WE DO SUPPORT YOU, WE DO UNDERSTAND, WE ARE THINKING PEOPLE WHO SEE THE DIFFERENCE, WE APPRECIATE THE SACRIFICES YOU MAKE AND, WE ARE PROUD OF YOU.

Crops, I know what you mean about worrying you give the wrong impression or are misunderstood - I live that every day now because of the brain damage - I'm with you girl!!

This thread is for what the majority want - not just me!

Terry.

[jazzieal]

Terry..I honestly cant see anything you have said or done to offend anyone..the way I understand it..this chain of honor thread is to make coments, post names, tell about a loved one now serving, or who may have served in other wars..just a place to pay honor to our military..and other of our heroes..no talk about poliitics or how we do or dont feel about the war..(I goofed and posted a few sentences earlier and for that I apologize)..and to hopefully collect a list of names that we can name in our prayers and to me, thats making them more real..I was also hoping we would hear some stories about those now serving, telling us about them and where they are..whats going on there that you can share..those type of things...just anything to let us here at home know about them..another intention when I started the other thread was to also find a way to let those on active duty know we care..Shelby and a Chaplin came up with what I agree, is a perfect way to do that..Im just hoping everyone will get excited about it like I am and take the time to make a page..I hope everyone will continue to post here about their loved ones or friends, or even if you dont have anyone serving now or in the past..post your thoughts and feelings because I know we have family members of our troops reading this thread and it will make them feel better too.. :)

[nanwu]

is there someway this can also be passed on to aussie troops

[sacannon]

Like Crops, I have no one in my family right now that is in service. So I had not posted anything here. That doesn't mean that my thoughts are not with all of those that are serving our countries. I agree with Terry, it is not about the politics of any one country, supporting the men and women whom are serving is what is important.

[jazzieal]

that would be wonderful nan..I would love to see it go to all the troops from everywhere that are on active duty..is there any way you can get in contact with a chaplin or someone that is also serving that would be in a postion to play the slide show for the troops to see if they would be willing to work with us on this..this IS NOT just for troops from the US its for all of our heros fighting this war we find ourselves in..we just have to find a way to get it to them..Shelby set it up for us so if you needed to talk to anyone about it Im sure she would be happy to..thanks for getting involved..

[Marion]

[B] I show MY respect by leaving personal opinions about politics and religion out of what I say - this is not the place for that - this has NOTHING to do with policitcs or religion - it's about speaking up for every member of the services and letting them know - WE DO CARE, WE DO SUPPORT YOU, WE DO UNDERSTAND, WE ARE THINKING PEOPLE WHO SEE THE DIFFERENCE, WE APPRECIATE THE SACRIFICES YOU MAKE AND, WE ARE PROUD OF YOU.Terry.

Well said! It fact, it is perfect Terry!

[OnieRN]

Like Crops, I have no one in my family right now that is in service. So I had not posted anything here. That doesn't mean that my thoughts are not with all of those that are serving our countries. I agree with Terry, it is not about the politics of any one country, supporting the men and women whom are serving is what is important.

I am a disabled veteran who served twice and I currently have 4 /children and family members who are servicing. I would love to share the DVD to our Military Kids Club. Our school has organized a club that meets after school for children, who have a parent in Iraq. Remember, half of my school population are children who have active duty parents!!!!! Believe me, I see how this current war has affected them and their families!!!!

Even if you do not know someone personally....... still contribute with a poem and letter, something!!!!

I know FIRST hand that these shoulders serve because they feel it's their obligation but they are also tired. They are not only putting their personal lives on the line but also their families. The families are suffering dearly and the divorce rate is extremely high with these families. Kids are suffering phyical problems, such as migraines, behavior problems, depression, just to mention a few.

Terry this is such a beautiful tribute and I would love to see us take this to the limits. Regardless of the politects/religions, these men, women and their families are truly HERO's!

[TerryW]

Onie,

Thanks for bringing the families into the picture Onie - I often think of them too but from the perspective of wives, husband, g/bfriends, children, parents MISSING their loved ones and thinking of their sacrifices in having someone serving BUT - boy, you sure have brought a whole new perspective to me.

Your daily face-to-face exposure gives you a wonderful, yet distressing (I imagine), view of the impact the families suffer.

The families are suffering dearly and the divorce rate is extremely high with these families. Kids are suffering phyical problems, such as migraines, behavior problems, depression, just to mention a few.
Thank you for this insight - I am even a little stunned by this - it just never crossed my mind!

Thanks darlin' (R)
L&R Terry

[jazzieal]

I am a disabled veteran who served twice and I currently have 4 /children and family members who are servicing. I would love to share the DVD to our Military Kids Club. Our school has organized a club that meets after school for children, who have a parent in Iraq. Remember, half of my school population are children who have active duty parents!!!!! Believe me, I see how this current war has affected them and their families!!!!

Even if you do not know someone personally....... still contribute with a poem and letter, something!!!!

I know FIRST hand that these shoulders serve because they feel it's their obligation but they are also tired. They are not only putting their personal lives on the line but also their families. The families are suffering dearly and the divorce rate is extremely high with these families. Kids are suffering phyical problems, such as migraines, behavior problems, depression, just to mention a few.

Terry this is such a beautiful tribute and I would love to see us take this to the limits. Regardless of the politects/religions, these men, women and their families are truly HERO's!
Thanks so much for this posting Onie..I knew having a loved one on active duty would cause problems but I had no idea of things like this..just never thought about in that way I dont guess..theres a lot that we.. sitting here in our comfortable homes.. dont really think about where all this is concerned..it makes me even more anxious to get this thing going and really try to make a difference in their lives..If you think it would help those kids..then I am 100% behind them seeing it..

[Shelbz]

Everyone i just wanted to say that I am overwhelmed at the response from all of you!! I agree with each and every perspective of this wonderfull thread that Terry began. Living the life of a military wife is not easy granted, being a child of a active duty soldier is one of the hardest things that they can go through as they dont really KNOW the man or woman that they call mom and dad. The parent left behind assumes the role of both parents and the structure of life that those kids know has changed. They do suffer from issues that most kids do not. Separation anxiety being one of the worst. Depression in children with active duty parents is phenomenal. Divorce in couples has tripled in the past ten years. Your right these are things that we dont really think about unless we live them or watch others live this life.(Onie has hands on experience in alot of areas of the military life and a wonderful perspective as well.)

I to am proud of the fact that i served my country proudly..Although my time in active duty is over i feel that i still serve my country in other ways, being the wife of a soldier who is gone more then 3/4 of the time is a challenging and daunting job, raising kids to know what this life is like and appreciate it is just as difficult. As adults we know what the feelings we are having are all about. But our children dont understand the changes in their lives and then they become withdrawn, or act out...Some have said that the hardest job in the military is being that of a military wife> Well on some plains i agree and on others I dont. I know that i am just one voice and a small one at that. In the past twenty years i have watched my children grow into strong and healthy adults, with strong values and love of life. They feel that their lives were eriched by being children with active duty parents. I missed alot of the fun of growing up with them, but I also know that I made a small difference in this world and the world that they would continue to live in. That alone made the sacrifices worth it to me!!

Some of us understand the need for the current conflict and others dont. The majority of the soldiers currently serving and deployed will tell you that they feel honored to be doing something so valient for their country and their way of life. They proudly serve side by side with soldiers from other nations. Friendships and life long relationships will be and have been formed...all of these nations and countries that have supported the ongoing issues in Afghanistan and Iraq serve for one soul purpose..that is for the freedom of the people that are near and dear to their hearts!!!! Through the years all we have wanted was peace and understanding, although the method behind the madness is not one we all agree with, it is the ultimate goal!!!

If you cant tell i am PROUD to be the wife of a soldier, the mother of military "brats" , a veteran Marine and a woman who appreciates this world we live in with its faults and all!!!!!

Now all i really wanted to do was say thank you for all the support from those who have dealt with this first hand, from those who have such loving and caring hearts and want this world to be a peaceful nation. From those who have loved ones serving and for those who have also paid the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in defense of our freedoms!!

I hope this does not offend anyone as that is not my intentions, but it is human nature to not realize that something you said could be taken offensively until it is too late,,,,

[OnieRN]

Everyone i just wanted to say that I am overwhelmed at the response from all of you!! I agree with each and every perspective of this wonderfull thread that Terry began. Living the life of a military wife is not easy granted, being a child of a active duty soldier is one of the hardest things that they can go through as they dont really KNOW the man or woman that they call mom and dad. The parent left behind assumes the role of both parents and the structure of life that those kids know has changed. They do suffer from issues that most kids do not. Separation anxiety being one of the worst. Depression in children with active duty parents is phenomenal. Divorce in couples has tripled in the past ten years. Your right these are things that we dont really think about unless we live them or watch others live this life.(Onie has hands on experience in alot of areas of the military life and a wonderful perspective as well.)

I to am proud of the fact that i served my country proudly..Although my time in active duty is over i feel that i still serve my country in other ways, being the wife of a soldier who is gone more then 3/4 of the time is a challenging and daunting job, raising kids to know what this life is like and appreciate it is just as difficult. As adults we know what the feelings we are having are all about. But our children dont understand the changes in their lives and then they become withdrawn, or act out...Some have said that the hardest job in the military is being that of a military wife> Well on some plains i agree and on others I dont. I know that i am just one voice and a small one at that. In the past twenty years i have watched my children grow into strong and healthy adults, with strong values and love of life. They feel that their lives were eriched by being children with active duty parents. I missed alot of the fun of growing up with them, but I also know that I made a small difference in this world and the world that they would continue to live in. That alone made the sacrifices worth it to me!!

Some of us understand the need for the current conflict and others dont. The majority of the soldiers currently serving and deployed will tell you that they feel honored to be doing something so valient for their country and their way of life. They proudly serve side by side with soldiers from other nations. Friendships and life long relationships will be and have been formed...all of these nations and countries that have supported the ongoing issues in Afghanistan and Iraq serve for one soul purpose..that is for the freedom of the people that are near and dear to their hearts!!!! Through the years all we have wanted was peace and understanding, although the method behind the madness is not one we all agree with, it is the ultimate goal!!!

If you cant tell i am PROUD to be the wife of a soldier, the mother of military "brats" , a veteran Marine and a woman who appreciates this world we live in with its faults and all!!!!!

Now all i really wanted to do was say thank you for all the support from those who have dealt with this first hand, from those who have such loving and caring hearts and want this world to be a peaceful nation. From those who have loved ones serving and for those who have also paid the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in defense of our freedoms!!

I hope this does not offend anyone as that is not my intentions, but it is human nature to not realize that something you said could be taken offensively until it is too late,,,,


I totally agree with all that you said here. I started out as a 19 yr old wife, who after several years and 2 children. I felt the need to enlist into the Air Force. I served in Washington DC at Bolling AFB. Later I took a 14 break in service and obtained my nursing degree. I again felt the desire to return to the service. I went back on active duty during Desert Storm. I was commissioned as an officer. Unfortunitly I was one of many who were downsized or rifted in 1995. I have again been asked to return to active duty but felt that I was getting too old and just not in the physical shape needed. I am telling you this because I too felt a strong need to continue my service and decided to live in a military community and work with the children.

I too am proud to call myself a Military veteran, wife and mom. All 3 of my children were raised with the military influence. Currently my daughter is getting ready to send her husband for his 3'rd tour in Iraq. My grandchildren have also know the affects of having an absent parent. Their marriage almost didn't surrvive the 2'nd tour, as the family fell apart. I am worried about them because this 3'd tour is facing us. I wished my daughter would sell their house in Tennessee and come closer to the family during this next tour. She is stubborn and strong, by insisting that she stays in Tennessee while the rest of us are out west.

Shelby I am very proud of you too! You have my prayers and thoughts always.

[TerryW]

Shelbz,

Beautifully written. If anyone is offended by your comments then they have some very serious issues in their lives.

I know from my first marriage (23yrs) to an American just how patriotic you are as a nation (in the majority) and I see that as a shining example to other nations - including my own (I'm a proud Aussie but our level of patriotism overall is depressed). There may be a lot of negatives that get thrown around but one thing you can't fault the 'yanks' for is their patriotism and that is a massive plus in my books!

It was good to read your comments and to 'feel' the pride you have in your family members for their service to your great nation. I COULD tell you are proud to be a soldiers wife and having served yourself - I'm an Australian and you may not understand where I'm coming from with this but - I'm proud of you also.

My comments go to you too Onie and - for the service you continue to provide - I am very much a 'Champion to Children' and your choice to support them receives my admiration freely and without limit.

It may not mean a great deal, across the miles, over a massive ocean, from a different country in a different hemisphere but to both of you... THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE FOR THE BETTERMENT OF ALL MANKIND - MY FAMILY AND I APPRECIATE IT AND WE SUPPORT YOU FULLY.

Terry.
P.S. As my family and friends will attest - I am quite a different person with a mindset and beliefs that are different to probably anyone you have ever met - some say I don't fit the mold, others that I don't fit in.

[TerryW]

I have posted an answer to your 'quoting' query in the thread in which you mentioned it - where the military pages are being posted.

L&R Terry.

[makeyesup]

Terry, you fit in here just fine. This SBM family is caring and very loving. Can tell by all your writings that you are that too.

Thanks for the added pride in our country. My late husband served as a Marine in WWII and would never talk about all the things he saw. He was lucky, he came back. Though I know from his silence, he saw a lot of his buddies die in the war on the many islands he went too.

A lot of people don't feel that we should involve ourselves in other countries problems. However, I think that type of caring for mankind (& womankind) is what makes America great.

[rosana brito]

Terry, congratulations for the beautiful words, knows this me comove very, why I do not obtain to understand WAR, why to have that to take off lives, being that in we are here only of ticket, it always arrives the certain day stops to die, and necessary somebody I did not come e in cutting with a scythe them, peoples, he seems not to perceive the act dull of to kill, to put we must be always chemical preparations stop this, now! I feel for innumerable young that they had lost its lives so early, e they had not had the possibility to perhaps carry through a so simple dream, e I feel for as many families of which its had pulled out it wanted beings, I believe that this page it is forever in ours memory, I loved its words, ok


kisses

[jazzieal]

Thank you Shelby and Onie for sharing first hand experience and knowledge of what its like being a veteran and also the member of a family with active duty loved ones..it as sure helped me to better undersand what the military faces...and also their families..thanks Rosana for your comments..I also feel a great sadness for those young people who have lost their lives.. I can almost be 100% sure they died for something they believed in and are true heroes...

[knzus]

My father -- Veteran, served during WWII, from June 1944 to June 1946; Company E, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, 2nd Armored Division (most widely and historically known as "Hell On Wheels", see: http://www.2ndarmoredhellonwheels.com/ ); Battle/Campaign: GO 33 WD 45 Ardennes, Rhineland, Central Europe (France, Belgium, Germany, and Holland), under General Patton; Decorations and Citations include: Bronze Star Medal, Army of Occupation Medal With Germany Clasp, 3 Bronze Service Stars, American Campaign Medal, Eamet Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon, and was issued the WWII Victory Medal on December 1, 1947. My father is still living and will be a feisty 82 years old later this year (he's the one who has had two surgeries this year). Several of his siblings also served in the military during their lives.

My husband -- served in the National Guard from 1986 - 1992, Kansas.

My stepson -- entered military service in 1998; has been in Iraq 3 times (so far); currently with the Special Forces Unit, 4/160th SOAR (Night Stalkers), which is headquartered in Fort Lewis, Washington (see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/160th_Special_Operations_Aviation_Regiment_(Airbor ne) , http://www.lewis.army.mil/ , http://www.soc.mil/160soar/soar_home.htm , http://www.nightstalkers.com/ ). Married with two sons (ages 6 years and 5 years). We are in contact with him by email all the time, although there may be several weeks between replies from him.

Also have several cousins currently in the military.

[BunnyCates]

I dont know if you guys had seen this site, but you can send POSTCARDS for FREE thru the mail...well, thru this site and they send them...
www letssaythanks . com
I spread it out so it isnt actually a link, and wont get removed. But I LOVE it, and send 1 a day, sometimes more!

I have 2 cousins and a friend currently over there. SO my heart is with you ALL!

Thanks for this thread and the poem!