Lima Company Remembered This Thanksgiving

Scattered Showers - Hi 72 Lo 58 for Baghdad, Iraq
Mostly Sunny - Hi 74 Lo 40 for Qandahar, Afghanistan
Partly Cloudy - Hi 50 Lo 35 for Northern KY, USA

Song of the week: We'll Meet Along the Way, HEM

Ramble:

Go get some coffee first... I have a lot to ramble about this week so bare with me.

This past week I traveled to Pascagoula, Mississippi via Louisville, Atlanta, and Gulfport. (There isn't a direct flight from Cincinnati to Gulfport... and Cincinnati airfare was over $900.00... travel 1 1/2 hours south to Louisville airfare is a little over $300.00... go figure.) The sunny skies were a welcome change although it was a tad chilly for southerners. The flight from Atlanta to Gulfport was humorous in the sense that a handful of pigeons not interested in the chilly climate in Atlanta decided to board our little commuter seeing this would be a much more efficient means of flying south. Too funny... After shooing the pigeons out of the jet, our flight attendant as described by one of my travel mates was no doubt someone who won a law suit with the airlines and was most likely a girls physical education teacher in a previous career... definitely not your stereotypical flight attendant. Prior to take off she broke the cable on the door so we sat and waited for it to be repaired.

Now our trip home from Gulfport to Atlanta was smooth sailing until smoke filled the cabin of the commuter. The pilot's voice came over the intercom stating something to the effect that he had shut off the air conditioning unit... 2 seats ahead of me was a pilot catching a ride home and he and the flight attendant were chatting with a great deal of enthusiasm to the pilot in the cockpit... Once we landed and began to taxi it felt as if we were going to take off again... the pilot floored it and hauled @$$ to the terminal. We pulled up --sort of-- to a terminal... this time the pilot calmly stated, "please quickly gather your belongings and exit the plane quickly and calmly." Nice. I was in row 3 and was off the plane and on the tarmac where I saw one of the engines smoking... good times.

We stayed at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi- a very nice casino and resort on the gulf. You may remember Jim Cantore standing in front of the Beau Rivage reporting on Hurricane Katrina. The Hard Rock Cafe Casino and Resort was next door under construction. Needless to say, after Katrina... the Hard Rock was gone and the Beau Rivage was in bad shape. The last time I saw the Beau Rivage all the windows had been blown out, part of it was missing. It has been a while since I was last down here, still a lot of devastation, but the rebuilding continues. The picture to the left was taken with my cell phone, so it is pretty poor quality. You can see the top of the neck of the Hard Rock guitar in the lower left... But that sunrise was spectacular. The only thing that was missing was my better half.

Besides the meeting we had with our customer, (and returning home safely) the most important part of the trip for me was seeing all the men and women in uniform. Every flight we had included active duty servicemen. All were heading overseas. I can't tell you how humbling it is to see these young men and women preparing themselves. This time of year we are all busy with thoughts of the holidays... the hustle and bustle. Take a moment to remember them. They are off to be in harms way.

So with thoughts of the men and women I saw in the airports earlier in the week. On Thursday, after I was back home safe and sound and since I had the day off, I went to Union Terminal to see the Lima Company Memorial. Words can not express how moving this memorial is.

The faces of the young men were absolute perfection. Anita Miller, the inspired artist, captured the spirit of each of the young bright eyed men. I was captivated by each one. I can not express adequately what it was like to stand there. The portraits form a circle. To look at the portraits you must enter that circle and you are then surrounded by these men. Even though these are paintings of the men, there is a sense of safety in that perimeter, a sense of camaraderie between those men that we mere civilians will never comprehend. In front of each portrait are the actual combat boots of the young man that wore them. The families provided the boots and I must tell you that was probably the toughest part of this exhibit. On the outer perimeter of the circle are the names of each young man, their age, their rank, their hometown. There are flowers, letters and other memorabilia left by loved ones allowing those of us not lucky to have known them in life an opportunity to capture a glimpse of what they were, who they were.

Here are the photos... the lighting was not optimal, but I hope you gather a sense of what it was like to stand in the middle of these fallen heroes.

Anita Miller was able to capture the spark of each young man. They were alive and popped off the canvas, the personal items added to this. I was there pretty much by myself and spent about two hours looking at the paintings and reading the letters and cards and looking at the scrapbooks and photos. To the families and loved ones of these young men lost three years ago, my heart and prayers go out to you. The sacrifice you have endured is more than I can imagine. I thank you for raising sons that felt such a calling must be answered. I thank the wives and fiances and girlfriends for loving these young men. I thank the siblings and cousins and friends and all those that were touched by these fine men. My heart goes to the children of these men. Your father was a hero and I am so sorry you will only know him through the pictures and stories you are told.

Semper Gratus.

Click on each photo to enlarge.

Eric Bernholz, Dustin Derga, and Nick Erdy

Dustin

Nick's Boots

Nick

Tim Bell, Justin Hoffman, and Nicholas Bloem


William Wightman, Augie Schroeder, and Grant Fraser
The following was read at Grant's eulogy. Grant was not from the state of Ohio, but from Alaska. It is quite moving and gives a you a glimpse of the man and how he was seen by those that loved him.
Chris Dixon, Travis Youngblood, and Wesley Davids

Recollections of Chris

Wesley was from California. Below is a photocopy of the letter he penned in the event he was killed. Although profoundly personal, his family thought it was important enough to share. To be so young and to be so brave, to understand what his calling was... to be able to share these thoughts so clearly with his loved ones...


Wes
Andre Williams, Michael Cifuentes, and David Kreuter


Andre's Mom took a shirt he wore and made this frame. The shirt was starting to wear out on the back. So personal. I wept when I touched it.



Kendall Ivy, David Wimberg, and Jonathan Grant
Jourdan Grez, Chris Dyer, and Aaron Reed


Chris was from Cincinnati. I was privileged to shake his father's hand
Anthony Goodwin and Chris Lyons


So this Thursday, as we sit down with our families, some more dysfunctional than others. Be kind to each other (unless it is your flaming lib Aunt who just won't shut up). Thank God for blessing us for being born in a country where we are free and can choose our own path in life. Take a moment as you are saying the blessing or toasting each other to say a prayer or raise a glass to these men from Lima Company. There are others there today that have also answered the calling. Say a prayer for them too.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Amish Country And Remembering Nick Erdy

Sunny - Hi 73 Lo 54 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny - Hi 66 Lo 39 for Qandahar, Afghanistan
Flurries - Hi 39 Lo 34 for Northern KY, USA

Song of the week: Ghost in this House, Allison Krauss and Union Station

Ramble:

Michael made our annual trek up to Amish country this past Friday. He and I were absolutely giddy about the trip--- definitely an "old people moment". Really, you would have thought we were on our way to Cancun... Holmes County, Ohio is about 3 1/2 hours northeast of us. We had perfect weather and it was simply a beautiful day. It was the first time we had ever visited on a Friday and this late in the year---We typically make the drive to see the fall colors. That wasn't in the cards this year, but seriously, it was so much more enjoyable... far less people.. We quickly realized Friday is wash day in Amish country--- We saw clothing out drying everywhere. It was pleasant to see-- reminded me of being a kid and my grandma hanging the laundry outside to dry. I remember the clothes line posts that she would secure under the clothes line to hike the line up high so the clothing wouldn't drag. I remember the sheets billowing in the breeze and running in between them, making believe it was a curtain to a stage where I would perform some brilliant song for all to hear. I still remember how wonderful the sheets would smell when she would pull them off the line...

Now, the food in Amish country is... Oh my gosh... incredible... homemade pies and bread. We had dinner at a place called Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant. It was cozy--- home cooked food. Served by lovely young Mennonite and Amish girls, the service was impeccable, the portions- huge... It was at this point we decided that someone should invent a gravy that could also be used as a dip. OMG...
We went to some of the shops but only found a couple of places that interested us--a bulk food store... which was pretty cool for Michael and an incredible antique store. In fact, I have never seen it's equal anywhere. Run by another member of the Amish community- I could not believe how many pieces I found that I instantly fell in love with. I have quite literally been looking for a china closet for 10 years. I found at least a dozen there I could have taken home at that moment. The rest of the shops we visited were of the "cute variety". The choxkie--- the overly cute painted signs that say things like, "friendship" and "love" with teddy bears and cute snowmen painted on wood or tin all of which is made in China or India... you know, the stuff you find in the Tenderhearts mail order catalog. The trip was rejuvenating for the mind and soul. Next time, hopefully we will leave with a beautiful piece of furniture hand crafted by someone over a century ago- or possibly a beautifully handmade quilt... or one of those way cool Amish made wicker baskets. Our focus was on the scenery and those areas not inundated by tourism, but rather the freshly plowed fields and the laundry and the big skies, rolling hills and gorgeous valleys, and the young Amish children selling their wares and tending their chores... very nice...very nice indeed.

On Saturday, November 22, the Fourth Annual Dinner and Auction benefiting the Nick Erdy Foundation will take place. I never knew Nick, but like so many in this community, I felt I did. I have written about him and others we lost from Lima Company. He is still remembered. He is not forgotten. A memorial for those lost from the 3/25 in 2005 has arrived in Cincinnati it has been on display in Ohio's State Capital since Memorial Day. In the coming days, I will make the trip to Union Terminal to remember those fine young men. I expect it to be highly emotional.
Nick Erdy and Dustin Derga were best friends. Dustin was killed on May 8. Nick was killed on May 11. They had plans together... to become firemen... or to open a bar in Florida... to live their lives... to get married to their girls back home, who also had become close friends. May 2005 changed everything for those in Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Regiment. Remember them. Keep them in your hearts, pray for their families and loved ones. Pray for those still in harms way. Thank them when given the opportunity.

Watch this:


I found this heartbreaking note from Kristen, Dustin's girlfriend.

for all of you from the 3/25 who gave the ultimate sacrafice, we salute you. There are not enough men out there who would pick up a gun and go fight for their country. It is a shame that more people could not be like you... You served and lived for a purpose and that is more than most can say... you fought for freedom, your families, friends and the future of America...You had an honorable job and you held up your end of the bargin... It is like that Toby Keith song.. "American Soldier." "And I dont want to die for you but if dyings asked of me, I'll bare that cross with honor cause freedom don't come free!" You all are the true definition of HERO and that will never be taken from you. I regret not being able to meet all of you.... but the ones I did know... CPL Dustin Derga and LCPL Nick Erdy, were among the greatest people I have ever met. Fun loving, carefree, and full of commitment to the United States Marine Corps and their fellow Americans. You boys will forever be in our hearts! And the only thing we ask of you now is to watch over you fellow soldiers and bring them home to us! To the rest of the 3/25... You are in our thoughts and prayers! Just remember those men who lost their lives will now be fighting next to you for the rest of their lives... and in return just live your life with them in mind... never forget!! Fight hard... Come home safe!!! We will all be waiting for your return....
SEMPER FI... Kristin (Derga's girlfriend)

For more information on the dinner and auction for The Nick Erdy Foundation click here

Have a great week everyone!

Rewind and Replay... Not Quite...

Sunny - Hi 73 Lo 52 for Baghdad, Iraq
Rain - Hi 50 Lo 33 for Northern KY, USA

Song of the week: Angry American, Toby Keith

I started out on You Tube looking for a tribute with the backdrop of Toby's song, which I have used a couple of times as my Song of the Week, however, none suited my feelings...none suited where we are today. All of the videos I found had flags waving, visions of the towers falling, the American people united, and soldiers fighting. I wish we were united against this evil, but we are not. I am uncontrollably angry. I am livid.

Ramble:

On August 7, 2005 I wrote about my anger AND hope after Lima Company took a huge blow in a post titled, Anger and Hope. Not much has changed... except I'm not so hopeful these days. I have grown weary. Below is an excerpt from the original post, if you want the links listed in the post please go to my original post here.

I am angry.
Those Marines were battling men that hide behind masks, that do cruel things that are too vile to discuss in a polite society. Torture? Please, go ahead and drive me crazy about talk of Abu Ghraib (Yes, I have seen all the photos, including the ones they don't show on the news...) and Guantanamo... No heads were viciously cut off in front of cameras...DO you remember hearing the blood curdling screams of those poor souls? Yes, there are a few idiots in our midst... I am ashamed that they are Americans--Lynndie England and Charles Graner (the most photographed) and the others, but we find them, remove them, and punish them accordingly. I'm disgusted by Janis Karpinski AND with the military that did not send her to be court-martialed... She allowed Abu Ghraib to happen on her watch... I'm sure she wasn't court-martialed because the military has blame in this too. She was placed in a job that she had no business in. I bet she was promoted through the ranks because she is a woman. (How many of us know people at work that have been promoted that should have been fired? Show of hands?) She is incompetent... You know it, I know it... and I can write it because I'm of the same gender...(you know what I mean... that whole politically correct thing... another topic for another time) Now I hear she is on the speaker circuit, trying to make a buck. I guess she is professing how hard it is to be a Brigadier General (was demoted to Colonel) in the Army in Iraq... boo hoo hoo...

Look... We don't torture and murder innocent civilians like Leon Klinghoffer, or Italian hero Fabrizio Quatrocchi, or the crew and passengers of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie Scotland, or Daniel Pearl ****LINK NOT APPROPRIATE FOR CHILDREN AND SOME ADULTS****. We don't kill our athletes when they don't perform. We don't treat women like cattle... worse than cattle... We don't rape women and young girls and then murder them because they are no longer pure... We don't send a car filled with explosives into Embassies (Tehran, Beirut, Kuwait) to maim and kill civilians... We don't boobeytrap our own CHILDREN with explosives to kill soldiers!! We don't fill a back pack with explosives, board trains and buses and blow people to bits... Oh, and we don't fly jetliners into skyscrapers and kill thousands either!!!

We are fighting evil and it is real. It is tangible...You can touch the face of a terrorist- he isn't the bogeyman... You know as well as I do who the bad guys are....I must remind those that will listen to the Michael Moores and Al Frankens and all the politicians that would prefer to sell our collective souls to the devil that we need to to remember who the enemy is.... The Jawa Report **** NOT APPROPRIATE FOR CHILDREN AND SOME ADULTS*** does an excellent job of reminding everyone in his blog entry, Avenging Cpl. Jeffrey A. Boskovich. Every time we start to forget the reason why we are fighting these extremest cowards... we should reflect on those awful images and sounds of horror as a reminder....

After this part of the post, I had provided reasons as to why I was hopeful. Today I wonder to myself whether or not I'm being sucked into a vacuum... Where is our sense of priority? Where is our personal sense of duty? Where is our accountability and responsibility? Anna Nicole... why is she still news? She is dead... and I don't think she is going to wake up... if she does then it would be Night of the Living Dead and I WOULD want to know about that. Britney Spears? Why do we care about this sad unfortunate bit of white trash? Jet Blue? I was flipping through the cable channels early yesterday morning and the banter went something like this:

Talking head with boobs # 1: "So, this was really traumatic for the folks on board, probably one of the most traumatic events anyone flying could endure. This is probably the worst case scenario when we are flying. What will Jet Blue do to prevent this from happening ever again?"

Talking head with boobs # 2: "Well, Jan the CEO has taken all the right steps. Time will tell whether it is enough."

Folks--- let's get one thing clear. If sitting on an *expletive * expletive* jet for hours is the most traumatic event that occurs in one's life...then I'd say... SHUT UP!!!

OH... and the most traumatic event that can occur on a jet? Hmmmmmm.... let's see... How about being on board with a bunch of terrorists that decide... "Yeah... this jet... it will make a great bomb...so, let's slash the throats of the crew with box cutters and take over this jet and go blow up some buildings..." Me personally, I think THAT would be the most traumatic event on a plane- but that's just me.

Good Grief!! There are soldiers and Marines that are fighting and DYING for us... They are wondering whether or not they have our support. We have asked these young men and women to do things that we can not begin to imagine. They do it- they do it for the sake of us- unappreciative, lazy, complaining whiners. They are keeping the fight OVER THERE!!!

Oh and check this out... as I'm perusing blogs as I like to do... I found this post....

Cut'n'run...............sounds like a plan

"If the U.S. leaves before the job is done, the enemy could follow us here." Quoted from a speech the president gave recently.

F*** You, Mr. President................................let them follow us.........

They've kicked our ass to a stalemate on their turf long enough. They control most of the battlefield. They pick away at our young service members with relative impunity. They die martyrs..........deluded, but happy to do so. We die for our "cause". A far less fulfilling fate.

So...................f*** you Dubya. Bring 'em home. Let's defend the Homeland from home. Let them be the strangers in a strange land.

Ankh

OH - MY - GOD!!! This guy thinks it's a great idea to fight 'em here... Fighting on our streets? Where our children play? Where our loved ones and homes can be blown up? With the exceptions of the so called occasional "Hate Crimes" or Teenage Angst Issues gone awry.... have we not prevented attacks on our soil? Why does this guy think it's a great idea to bring the battle here? To fill our streets with terrorists? Why? Am I missing something? Please help me out! Again... Am I living in some sort of vacuum??? What is this???

We have a bunch of whiney *expletive* politicians maneuvering and saying what they will to get our vote.... I am so sick and freaking tired of them!!! Which candidate is going to have the *expletive* to stand up and say,

"NO MORE! SHUT UP NANCY PELOSI! SHUT UP HARRY REID! TED KENNEDY SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP- HOW DARE YOU TELL ME ABOUT MORALITY! SHUT UP YOU BLEEDING HEART HOLLYWOOD DIMWITS! SHUT UP YOU COMMUNISTS! YOU SOCIALISTS! CODE PINK AND CINDY SHEEHAN! I HAVE HAD ENOUGH- I LOVE THIS COUNTRY AND WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO DESTROY IT. WE ARE GOING TO CONTINUE TO TAKE THE FIGHT TO THE TERRORISTS! WE WILL DESTROY THOSE THAT WOULD DESTROY US"

I don't see anyone on the horizon that looks like that, do you? Where is our next hero? It certainly isn't in the pack of Republicans I see... I want someone rabid- I want someone angry - someone that realizes what is at stake. I send off weekly notes to my representatives. Am I doing any good? Am I the only one?

So, I don't know what to do with my anger. I thank God everyday for our Marines and soldiers. I pray for them. I pray for our Commander in Chief. I support them and their mission, but I must ask,

What else am I to do? Am I all alone?

UPDATE 8:AM: Thanks Major Pain for posting this. Thanks for reminding me that there are good men in Washington fighting the good fight. Go watch Congressman Johnson speak.

The Marines of Lima Company

Tonight Michael and I watched a two hour special on A&E called Combat Diary: The Marines of Lima Company.

If you missed it... make sure to find time this Memorial Day weekend to watch it.

Upcoming Airings:
Friday, May 26 @ 1am/12C
Saturday, May 27 @ 8pm/7C
Sunday, May 28 @ 12am/11C
Sunday, May 28 @ 1pm/12C
Monday, May 29 @ 8am/7C
Monday, May 29 @ 2pm/1C
Saturday, June 03 @ 11am/10C

A&E Combat Diary: The Marines of Lima Company

Related:

Ohio Weeps

Anger and Hope

Words to Remember- Everyday

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation

photo taken by me- Nick Erdy's return home....

I Will Remember You

Partly Cloudy Hi 78 Lo 56 for Baghdad, Iraq

Cloudy Hi 35 Lo 22 for Northern Kentucky, USA

Song of the Week: I Will Remember You, Sarah McLachlan

**Thank you to everyone that posted a comment here for a discouraged soldier. I will make sure Mike sees them all. Please, if you have not done so, please leave a comment for Mike here. Uh... you too, honey... please.

Thanks to my American pals:
Chrys @ Pettifog Jots and Tittles
Joshua @ Peakah's Provocations
Diane @ Diane's Stuff

And of course thanks to my Canadian friends:
Paul @ Blue Blogging Soapbox ---I voted for you for Best new Canadian Blog.... :-(
Lindsay @ United Right
As usual, girlfriend Wonder Woman gave me some link love here. Vote for her here for Best Canadian Conservative Blog.

And wow... what about my friends in Italy: Go visit these folks... it is so cool to know we have friends and allies this strong and loyal. Yahoo offers a translator to make reading easier.

Roberto @ Otimaster also gave me some link love here. (I know you rallied everyone- Graci)
Roberto Nicolai @ Robinik
George Walker @ Pro American Movement
Carlo @ I Diavoli Neri (The Black Devils)
Elena @ Robinik
and Lo Pseudosauro

George also sent this link If I Die Before You Wake, a sobering tribute.

Thank you to Anonymous, Tom and Anonymous too!

**OK, on to older business... The correct answers to last Sunday's quiz here and here are as follows:

Since You Went Away
A Christmas Carol
Little Women (June Allyson, Elizabeth Taylor version)
Big Fish
Wizard of Oz
Serendipity
Sound of Music
White Christmas
Scrooged
Holiday Inn (the Song White Christmas was performed in this movie first)
Planes Trains and Automobiles (watched at Thanksgiving)
Auntie Mame (watched New Year's Day)
National Lampoon's A Christmas Vacation
A Christmas Story
Miracle on 34th Street
Elf
It's a Wonderful Life

Rob was the closest... missed by one, but Right Girl was on it. The movie that stumped everyone was the first one- Since You Went Away. Wow... rent it! The wonderfully talented Claudette Colbert, the beautiful Jennifer Jones and the lovely teenager, Shirley Temple. Joseph Cotten and Lionel Barrymore are also in it. In fact, there will be other faces you will know and recognize. The story takes place during World War II, but no battles are depicted except the one on the homefront...The hardships and struggles, dreams and fears of one family. This is a perfect movie to reflect today on the families of our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. Yes, it is full of smaltz... and I love every second of it. The movie was made in 1944, so the realities of war are throughout this piece. It's a long movie so make extra popcorn. Let me know what you think.

**Last night, we were supposed to go to a benefit dinner and dance for Marine Nick Erdy who was killed back in May while serving in Iraq- An IED . I have been looking forward to this benefit since October. I would be able to pay my respects to the parents of a fallen Marine. Unfortunately, weather was not agreeable and we had to "abort" our trip due to icy road conditions. Quite frankly, I am very disappointed and I feel like a major wimp- I mean, here is this guy, Nick... his parents... his family... his friends... the hurt, pain and suffering, the loss of someone so young... and I couldn't make it because of weather... I'm a big loser and I don't feel like writing anymore. Not looking for an "it's ok, Cath..." Just let me sulk. I should have gone.

I'm sorry. Mr and Mrs. Erdy. I'm so sorry.

NOTE: This in NO way is a reflection on the other 5 individuals with me tonight. You all know what I'm capable of and I did not insist on going... I was wishy washy and not insistent, persistent and an all around nag. Again... I was a wuss tonight...

Related: Family of Fallen Marine Speaks
Related: 3rd Battalion

"Remembering The Sacrifice"
As the Helmet is designed to shield us from harm... Lord, we ask that you hold Nick in your loving hands. Comfort and shield him as he did us as he served.
Bless him and his family for the selfless acts they performed for us in our time of need. Our brothers and sisters ask this in your name. Amen.
-Milford Community Fire Department
2005
Fire Chiefs Helmet Retired

-- presented to the parents of Nick Erdy

...And I will remember you

Will you remember me?

Don't let your life pass you by

Weep not for the memories

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation...

Sunny Hi 100 Lo 75 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny Hi 67 Lo 43 for Northern Kentucky, USA

Featured Song of the Week: Arlington, Trace Adkins

If you aren't familiar with Trace or this song... just listen to the words.......

Every week I get a little apprehensive because I never have a clear plan on what I will write about on Sunday. This week was no exception. I usually start by picking my music. That always firms the direction I want to take my journal entry.

I thought about all the Iraqis making it to the polls... and how inspired I was all day Saturday because of their courage... Yes... I could have blogged about that... but then I believe the photos I posted yesterday say it all...

I then thought about some of the blogs I visited this past week... and the ones that kept my attention were the military blogs. OK... let me explain something... I'm partial to Marines... always have been... if you have read this blog for any amount of time you'll know that I come from a family of 'em. Now... don't get me wrong... I love all the other branches and have just as much respect and appreciation for them...I love a man in uniform, but nothing compares to those dress blues...nothing....

About a week and a half ago, a friend, Kyle, dropped a note stating that there was going to be a benefit dinner and dance in December for one of our fallen Marines. Kyle... not sure if I've mentioned him before or not... He is a good man. He is a Vietnam Veteran and is definitely one of my heroes. Michael and I met him at a rally in Cleveland- March 2003. As we weaved in and out of the crowd we saw this sign...we saw the colors... we knew...

Ever since that first chance meeting, Kyle has been our partner to countless rallies and lectures. If you read this and live in the Cincinnati area, chances are, he has welcomed home a son or a daughter of someone you know. Kyle's the guy that quietly makes sure no one is forgotten and that you have a frosty adult beverage. The photo to the left is at Glenn Beck's Rally for America in Huntington, West Virginia. A news reporter actually interviewed Kyle...
05/25/2003 5:42:42 AM PDT · Herald-Dispatch 5/25/2003 jean tarbett "Just because," he said with tears in his eyes, summing up the reason he drove from Cincinnati to Huntington, painted USMC on his forehead for "United States Marine Corps" and carted flags and signs into Marshall University Stadium Saturday. When the former Marine found his voice, he managed an explanation: "To thank the ones who have come home and the ones who didn't come home and to thank the families of both."

More recently, Kyle landed some tickets to see Sean Hannity down at the Cincinnati Convention Center. Michael had to work so I invited my brother-in-law, Sam and mother-in-law, a recent convert from the darkside... I'm still in shock.... When you meet Kyle... you've made a friend for life... before we parted ways that evening it was as if he'd known them all his life- hugs and kisses for everyone.

Kyle is the guy you want to have a beer with... and he most certainly is someone you want on your side.

With that said, this past May, prior to starting this blog, Kyle sent me a note stating that one of our fallen Marines, Lance Corporal Nicholas B. Erdy, was coming home. We had about an hour notice. I flew home from work, got changed, Michael grabbed our flag off the porch and off we went to Milford, Ohio. Kyle met us and we followed him to the firehouse where we got a ride with one of his buddies- another veteran, was he the fire chief?

LCpl Erdy arrived at CVG- Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Law enforcement officials from the Kentucky State Police, the Clermont County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and Owensville Police Department escorted him. When Nick arrived in Milford, he was greeted by countless red white and blue ribbons that women in the town quickly made and the fire department placed along the entire route of this very sad homecoming. As the procession slowly made its way up "Main Street" dozens of people were out with flags to pay their respect. Most were like us... We didn't know this young man, but we were compelled to come and thank him for giving the ultimate sacrifice. I suppose this young man's passing as well as Pfc Jim Miller IV of Anderson in January of this year hit me because they grew up in the same place I did...albeit many years after me... we went to the same schools... walked the same halls... but they had a greater calling- one that I and others like me will never be able to comprehend. These young men new what they were doing. They joined a brotherhood where Honor, Courage, and Commitment is the standard. When they enlisted they knew that going to battle was imminent. What courage.

My hope and prayer is that no one else dies in this war or any war for that matter. However, as long as terrorists continue to plague our planet, injury and death will continue to be a sobering reality for us until we have rid the world of this evil enemy. Understanding this harsh reality, everyone should attend a military procession of this nature at least once, not only out of respect but as a reminder--- freedom is never free. The military funeral ceremony is absolute. It will move you. I encourage you to bring your children- It is important that our young people understand what the ultimate sacrifice is. However, if you have not taught them how to be respectful and reverent-- do it before you show up to something like this. This isn't the time to throw a temper tantrum or have to listen to whining or have kids running around playing... but rather a time to teach your children about heroes.

When in attendance of a military funeral, the flag that draped the coffin is given to either the wife or mother of the fallen Marine... the following words are spoken...

On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and Corps.

Imagine those words being spoken to you. Life is so very precious and Nick Erdy knew that.

Related from my blog:

Anger and Hope
Letter from a Soldier

Related articles and websites:

Cpl Jeffery Boskovitch
Military Mascots
Lima Company
Band of Brothers
Arlington Cemetery
Welcome Home

Blogs to visit!!!!!!

OK, So Here's the Deal
Camp Katrina
Who's Your Baghdaddy?
Six More Months


The fire departments prepares as LCpl Nick Erdy comes home


Savannah & Anna waiting to pay their respects.
They came alone- Her fiance was in Iraq. When the Marines pulled LCpl Erdy's casket out of the hearse, Michael and I held Anna while she cried... we all were crying as I recall.


The sun disappears as we wait for him to come home.

Have a great week everyone...

Tomorrow is Independence Day

Last Updated 9/24/05

Sunny Hi 113 Lo 87 for Baghdad, Iraq
Sunny Hi 90 Lo 68 for NKY, USA

Song of the week: Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue -- Toby Keith
--- If the video doesn't start, just hit your refresh key... Now... turn up the volume and get everyone out of bed!!!! It is going to be a fantastic day!!


...And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

As we reflect on our Nation's birthday, the words above were an oath that our Founding Fathers promised to each other. They were willing to give up everything. My question to you-- How many of us today would be willing to do the same thing-- give of our lives, loves, material possessions and something most of us don't even consider today... Our honor? I consider myself very fortunate because I have been surrounded by patriots- men and women of honor my entire life.

This weekend, as we celebrate the 4th of July, our Independence Day, please take a moment to remember all those that came before us that had a vision of liberty and freedom. Take a moment to remember and pray for our men and women in the armed forces today. Pray for their families and friends.

It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, who has given us the freedom to demonstrate. It is the soldier, who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag."

- Father Dennis O'Brien, Chaplain, USMC


Learn about the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence.

You can find some of our local heroes here and here.

Kaziah the Goat Woman paints portraits of fallen heroes for free.

Celebrating Freedom

Our great nation was almost lost 142 years ago. For a very special remembrance and tribute, please visit The Beacon - Informed Patriotism.


This blog is dedicated to the following people:

*My Great Great Great Great Great Grandfather, Captain Israel Jones - Revolutionary War, served under General Washington -- how cool is that???

* My Great Great Great Grandfather, Robert Wilcox Jones - Civil War

*My Great Grandfather, Haven P - USN - WWI
*My Great Grandfather, Arthur S - Army National Guard - WWI, Alsace Lorraine Front and Argonne Forest, France
*My Great Great Uncle Earl Jones - USMC - WWI
*Rob C's Great Grandfather Fred Hutzel - USA - WWI, Rainbow Division

*My Grandfather, James R. P - USMC - WWII, Solomon Islands
*Michael's Grandfather, Louis Friedhof - USA - WWII
*My Great Uncle Calvin P - USA - WWII
*My Great Uncle Dick Davis - USA - WWII, Normandy
*My Great Uncle Dickie P - USA - WWII
*Rob C's Uncle Herbert Hall - USA - WWII, Darby's Rangers. POW - Escaped
*Rob C's Grandfather Robert L. C Sr. - USA - WWII, Battle of the Bulge
*Rawland Patrick "Pat Crosby - Retired USA - WWII, served under General Patton at the Battle of the Bulge, Korean War
*Robert Allen Johnson - USMC - WWII, Midway, Guadalcanal, Okinawa

*My Great Uncle Junior (Arthur) S - USMC - Korean War

*My dad, Ted M. P- USMC - Vietnam
*My Uncle Steve P- Retired USMC - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Charlie S - Retired USMC - Vietnam War
* My Great Uncle Tommy S - USMC - Vietnam War & Retired USAF
*My Great Uncle Denny S - USA - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Rex P - USA - Vietnam War
*Kyle S - USMC - Vietnam War
*Tom B - USN - Vietnam War
*Charlie D - USN - Vietnam War
*My Great Uncle Darrell C - USMC - Vietnam
*Rob C's father, Robert L. C Jr. - USMC - Vietnam War

*Anita I - USMC - Persian Gulf War
*My 2nd cousin - Darren C - USN - Persian Gulf


*Mike E - USA
*My cousin Jim P - USMC
*My brother in law Sam Y - USA
*Russell S - USA
*John K - USMC
*Michael D - USA
*James Kevin P - USMC
*John A - USA
*Mark B - USAF
*Murray R - USA

a humble prayer for those that gave the ultimate sacrifice:

*Pat Tillman, KIA - USA - Afghanistan

*Paul R. Smith - KIA - USA - Iraq, Medal of Honor Recipient

*Taylor B. Prazynski, KIA - USMC - Iraq

*Nick Erdy, KIA- USMC - Iraq

*Timothy J. Hines Jr., died from wounds sustained on 6/19, 7/14/05 - USA - Iraq

*Ronnie D. Williams, KIA 7/18/05 - USA - Iraq

*Timothy Michael Bell Jr., KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Michael Cifuentes, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*William Brett Wightman, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Christopher J. Dyer, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*David Kreuter, KIA 8/3/05 - USMC - Iraq

*Casey Sheehan, KIA, 4/4/04 - USA - Iraq

*Ken Welch, KIA, 9/20/84 - USA - Lebanon



and a special prayer for those currently serving:

*Cpl Mitchell Neil "Mikey" Price - USMC
*Spc Keith Scott - USA
*Sgt Kris Petrosky - USA
*Tech Sgt Chris Ryan - USAF
*Lt. Cmdr Scott Boisvert - USN
*SSgt. Matt Maupin, MIA/POW - USA Iraq
*Our Commander in Chief George W. Bush
***and All military bloggers that are keeping us in touch...
*Samantha Colling's "little" brother, Cpl Francis Louis "Frank" Arnold - USMC
*SGT John Furman - USA - Mosul, Iraq
*SGT Michael O'Rourke - USA - Baghdad, Iraq
*Michael McVey - USMC - Baghdad, Iraq
*LCpl Stephen R. Thompson - USMC - Iraq, Purple Heart Recipient

To those currently serving: You need to know that I and countless others stand behind you and support you and your mission. I am deeply grateful and profoundly humbled by your courageous service to our great country. May God bless you and keep you safe.

If I have omitted anyone, I am truly sorry. If I have printed something erroneously or incorrectly, please let me know so I may correct it. One thing I have found out about these guys--- "Y'all don't talk about it..."

Lastly, I would like to add to this list and see it grow... so if you know someone that is serving in the military or has served in the military, please send me their information and I'll just keep adding to the list...


On Monday---Have a happy Independence Day and remember to fly the flag.

Have a great week!!!

**The link to the tribute for Pat Tillman is quite moving and I highly recommend you view it. However, it must be noted that I do not endorse the author's position on our stance on the war in Iraq. I respectfully disagree with Chris Valentine and as I have mentioned in this post, I support our armed forces and their mission.


My Papaw


Uncle Steve, 1970 in full gear, Vietnam


My Uncle Charlie is standing in the back on the left. 1961 in Patras, Greece.


My Grandfather watching as my Dad is being inducted into the Marines. 1963


My Uncle Calvin is on the right. On the back of the photo, it reads, "This is one of the boys with me. I am still dirty. I just got off from work so you will have to overlook the dirt and the silly grin I got on my face. Love Calvin"


Old Glory