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Let's Raise a Sparkler
Topics: Military, patriotism
Posted by britgal Wed Jun 25, 2008 06:18:48 PDT
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0 responses 4 comments

 

Over the last year, I have had the honor of befriending a young sergeant stationed in Iraq. This dedicated father of three is on his second tour of duty and was 'introduced' to me by Soldiers Angels. His emails often speak of the heat, fatigue, and terror he is experiencing on a daily basis. He has written to me of a fellow soldier's death, balancing one hundred pounds worth of gear during three-day combat, and of his craving for Apple Jacks. Some letters mention the number of days he has left; last count was 184 days.

 

A recent letter included something I want to share as Independence Day approaches and firework stands are dotting parking lots. Free time for the troops is sacred; the men and women scramble for the Internet, televisions, or their beds. For my sergeant's platoon, they saw a need in their community and decided to use their free time to meet it.

 

I have his permission to share this information, but he has asked that I keep all specific details out for safety reasons. In the area he is stationed in, there are children eager to learn but not a school to attend. The school was long ago destroyed. He explained to me that in order for the school to be rebuilt, the citizens must pay for the building's construction. Knowing this was impossible, my sergeant and his platoon built the school themselves in their free time.

 

The platoon sent emails to friends and family back home, asking for donations of school supplies. Boxes began pouring in, many from church groups around the United States. In February, the school opened and 74 children are now able to receive a free education. Without our troops, this never would have happened.

 

On this Fourth of July, as we fire up the BBQ and enjoy a day off of work, let's raise a sparkler to the men and women who aren't home with their own loved ones this holiday - the courageous troops who ensure our freedom to do so.

You can help our troops by showing them your support through letters and email - register at www.soldiersangels.org.

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Comment From: sunnica

Wow... See why I can never go to bed? I am afraid I'm going to miss something GREAT like this. You have answered the call, Jen, and gave us all a gift for the 4th of July. Thank you so much -- and one more thing: If our readers want to become a member of Soldiers Angels, what should they do? Great story... thanks again! Comment From: britgal

Thanks, Dana... I edited the article this morning and included the support organization's website. It's worth the time involved to let at least one person over there know you care and appreciate their service. Thanks for considering it! Comment From: JanB

Thank you so very much for sharing that letter for all of us! Let's continue to support our troops and to remember why we have our freedom all year long and not just on Independence Day! God bless America! Janb Comment From: britgal

By the way, my husband took the photo at the Changing of the Guard in DC. Great shot, Kyle!