When I first joined the group it was shortly after my brother was killed in action. I don't know what I would of done without grief counceling and this group. He was my hero, the one who always looked after me, my best friend. I beat myself up mentally when he was killed because I had stopped talking to him. It was so stupid, the fight we had. I was against him joining the ARMY, because I felt something would happen. Well it did, and I couldn't say good bye. Only months after his death, I found out a rare disease was attacking my vital organs, and I needed chemotherapy right away. My autoimmune disease actually causes cancer. I am now on my fourth round of chemotherapy. God knows, if I could turn back time, I'd talk to my brother. God knows I'd give my life for him any day. Now I feel so alone in this bitter cold world. My father recieved a purple heart, and bronze star as well as other medals after my brother was killed. Dad doesnt want to know what happened, but my sister and I know what happened. He and his partner, a k9 partner (dog) were on patrol. They came across an ied (explosive device) and the other soldier who was there tried to disarm it. It predenotated, and my brother shoved the soldier out of the way and screamed "Noooooo" as he threw himself on the device to save the rest of the unit with him. Both him, and his dog... which was his "son" if anyone asked were killed. Now the holiday time is here, even though its been 4 years, I still can't find any happy moments. Its just not the same without him. I know he's still here with me in my heart, but it is not the same anymore. I feel like part of my heart is ripped out, and its worse over the holidays. I've also realized after the chilling 21 gun salute and recieving two flags that how much people, including me, took their freedom for granted. No one stops to think what a soldier whether four legged or two legged has done. Hardly anyone is truelly thankful to them. We wouldn't have the world we have if it wasn't for these men and women. We'd be under a different government, we wouldn't have freedom as we know it. Despite grief stricken, knowing what I know now, and as well knowing my brother I became very active in military support. If anyone knew my brother, they would understand. Always a smile, found bright side of everything, helped with anything no matter what, honest, faithful, religious, good heart, loved animals, everything everyone dreamed about
. That was my brother, and I know with a passion that drives my soul if he were still alive he'd support our military, he would find a way even if he couldn't walk, talk, write. So if there are veterans, soldiers, family of a soldier take my gratitude for what you have done without any questions, hesitation. And know you are in my thoughts and prayers, because of what you have done. Jesus laid down His life for our salvation, and Soldiers lay down their life for our freedom. Let us remember them.
Heres a video of my loved ones
http://youtu.be/R_jWCM2VSdg
God Speed Soldiers!
Hoooa