It's Memorial Day. In the States, people are going to parades, cooking-out and beginning the summer.
Veterans are marching in those parades, holding memorial ceremonies, paying respect to their fallen comrades and laying wreaths.
Over here, there are a few events to celebrate the beginning of summer; a cook-out at the dining hall, some fun stuff to do. But at 3pm there will also be a memorial service. Not just for Memorial Day, but also to remember the lives of 3 soldiers from Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Stewart Georgia. Last week these three soldiers were killed when an IED on the side of the road exploded as their humvee passed by. These soldiers lived in the same FOB as us, ate at the same chow hall as us, and wore the same uniform as us. Their jobs we like ours; make the country safer for the fledgling Iraqi government to be able to run things on their own. I didn't know these three soldiers. I don't know if I said hello to them in the PX, or was saluted by them while walking across the FOB. I do know that they were dedicated to their jobs, their unit and the mission. We all are. They wanted to be home with their loved ones, to be able to go to the store and not have to wear body armor in order to get there. We all do.
We have been very fortunate so far. None of my soldiers has been seriously hurt. A few guys have had to go for x-rays from pinched nerves or back pain. No one has been shot, or injured by a mortar attack or roadside bomb. No one has had to practice any of the battlefield first aid that we learned at Ft. Dix. I hope we never have to. I hope I can leave here having never fired a shot in anger.
I hope that in 5 or 10 years, I can take Evan to see the fire trucks in the Memorial Day parade somewhere. And when the veterans groups march by carrying the American flag, we can hold our hands over our hearts in respect and remember those who have fallen. And I hope that none of those fallen are people I knew.
Micah
Tonight I opened an email from your dad...and read with interest. He asked if anyone every thinks of the true meaning of Memorial Day...
My answer is yes. During my career, I've worked closely with Veterans of the Viet Nam "conflict"...and have many friends who served in the military. I generally send an email of thanks to them, including Skip Marsh - who did two tours in Nam so his brothers wouldn't have to...and to Jobie...my sister Marine gone "Padre" - who traveled the world for many years in the military. I do know the holiday, and it's meaning, and I salute you...and those you stand beside...as well as those who 'walked where you are'. I then went to your blog, ...and like the weepie sentimental sap you know I am...cryed. Your message was so well written and true. I'm so proud of you, Micah. Take care..stay safe. Waiting to welcome you home. God Bless. XO Linda
Posted by: Linda | June 06, 2005 at 09:06 PM
I agree...what a moving entry! It brought tears to my eyes as well. Any fallen soldier is devastating whether you know them or not; you are all there doing the same job. I am glad to hear you are still doing well and that your men are healthy and well...it's always good to know. I always hear so many terrible stories on the news that everytime they mention Iraq, my ears perk up and I listen...praying I never hear mention of your name. Keep taking care of your men and let them take care of you too...we want you all home safe and sound. You need to come home healthy and well to your special "little man". I am sure he misses you like crazy! Here's hoping you're home soon.
Love always,
Krista, Mark and Mason
Posted by: Krista O'Leary | June 06, 2005 at 08:40 PM
Hey,
Congrats to finding that majorly huge bunker! Makes ya wonder if there's more? It's finds like that, that will give them no place to hide.
Play Safe!
John
Posted by: John | June 06, 2005 at 05:04 PM
Like your Mom said, we look forward to the day when we can all stand with you and Evan and watch those fire trucks. Know that I, as well as the rest of the family,am proud of what you are doing and hope that you will bring all of your troops home safe.
Good luck and stay safe. We love you, Dad
Posted by: Mike Bell | June 05, 2005 at 10:30 PM
Micah,
What an eloquent, moving essay. It brought tears to my eyes. We're all looking forward to that day when you and Evan get to go watch fire trucks. Take care, stay safe. Love, Mom
Posted by: Leslie Bell | May 31, 2005 at 12:51 PM