This will more than likely be my last post for this "Mission". I'm within 6 days of completing my 179 day tour here at Dover Air Force Base. All my chaplains departed for their respective homes today. Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Rick Cavens is headed for Anchorage Alaska. Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Paula Payne is bound for Chicago Illinois. Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Doug Arendsee has departed for Cheyenne Wyoming. These are my friends, my chaplains, my pastors. They were also my family during these past 6 months. May God bless their travels as they return home to their families.
As a team, we provided dignity, honor and respect for over 318 fallen heroes and their families during our time here at Dover. We performed the Dignified Transfers in brutal 110 degree days in the summer months. We held umbrellas and braved wind & horizontal rains in Nor'easter travelling up the coast in the fall. We stood facing the frigid, freezing winds of this winter. The bond we formed while performing this mission is one that cannot be understood, or grasped by any outsider.
The new team is here and we are quickly introducing them to the rigors of this mission. They have been briefed and are now shadowing us on the mission essentials. We also took them on a tour today of the mortuary. Interesting how they took deep breaths as we entered each room and section of the mortuary. I remember those days. I never thought I would make it through this deployment. I honestly thought my emotions and senses would get the best of me and force me to avoid the gruesome aspects of this mission. However, with enduring support and faith in my team, I developed a resiliency, which gave me the ability to continue working effectively in all areas and make measurable contributions along the way. I pray that will be the same outcome for the new team here in place. It will take time for them to adapt, as it did for all of us, but over the course of time, they will find their niche and flourish.
The goodbyes are, by far, the hardest part of crossing the finish line. I have grown so very close to my colleagues here out of necessity. We bond together because we have too. You can't work on a mission such as this without leaning on people to help you process all that has passed before your eyes. The experience here is better shared across many like minded people, than shouldered alone. The things I saw, smelled and shared with my friends here, I will share with no other. That is the tie that binds us together. We are the only ones that truly know the impact and effect from the experiences unique to this place. I will carry their faces, their words and their memories with me forever.
If you have read and followed me these past six months, I thank you. I know these have not been the most uplifting accounts to read, but I hope they have at least been impactful. I hope they have opened your eyes and caused you to think about another aspect, another dimension of what happens as result of war. After our experience here, we have come to believe that there is more than one way to be wounded. One life lesson above all...... for every breath you take, give thanks to God.
Peace be with you.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
God Whispers - By Stephen Prasser
I decided to try and sum up my tour here at Dover with a poem. I'm not a skilled poet by any means, but I think it turned out fairly well.
God Whispers
By Stephen Prasser
In the beginning such a calling so deep in the soul.
“Go serve, make a difference…..”
“Fill someone, something broken, shine forth light”
Rebuild lives that one day may be whole.
The phrases, so clear, will go with me each day,
“I’ll remember you,” one mother said,
“Call your momma,” another pled.
“It wasn’t supposed to happen like this,” all would agree,
“I’m just a kid,” was also cried out to me.
At first, thoughts questioned, could this be all real?
Or, a nightmare….
A tsunami of emotions forcing us to feel.
We bleed just like they do, grief spilling forth among air.
More for some, And less for others, yet all we still must bear.
We are all witnesses to God’s work in the garden of sorrows.
The fruit of life at all stages of flourishing and withering before us.
Before my mind’s eye a wall of images leading to endless tomorrows.
Each one a sunset of life taken in season and purpose of which He owns.
Mornings bring reality, mercifully dulled by numbness and shock.
Oh, God, how can I endure this un-welcome, un-acceptable, un-movable situation?
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden…..”
A quiet wisp of words descend “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
Through it all I hear Him and listen, still and quiet in my mind.
God whispers some beauty, which if I seek, I can find.
“Don’t worry about tomorrow” “Trade your weakness for my strength”
“My love will carry you through” faith will endure all things no matter the length.
God writes his signature on all creation - on every child, with care.
Look to the heavens, you’ll find promise and comfort there.
The Fallen are all home at last, their journey now complete,
“My peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you” a blessing oh so sweet.
The spirit brings us to communion for just a moment brief in time,
You’ve changed a life or two, but especially this life that’s mine.
Dear one, as your journey continues, a new path you’re called to steer,
God whispers and walks beside you, I pray you’ll keep him near.
Do you know that God whispers?
swp 2010
God Whispers
By Stephen Prasser
In the beginning such a calling so deep in the soul.
“Go serve, make a difference…..”
“Fill someone, something broken, shine forth light”
Rebuild lives that one day may be whole.
The phrases, so clear, will go with me each day,
“I’ll remember you,” one mother said,
“Call your momma,” another pled.
“It wasn’t supposed to happen like this,” all would agree,
“I’m just a kid,” was also cried out to me.
At first, thoughts questioned, could this be all real?
Or, a nightmare….
A tsunami of emotions forcing us to feel.
We bleed just like they do, grief spilling forth among air.
More for some, And less for others, yet all we still must bear.
We are all witnesses to God’s work in the garden of sorrows.
The fruit of life at all stages of flourishing and withering before us.
Before my mind’s eye a wall of images leading to endless tomorrows.
Each one a sunset of life taken in season and purpose of which He owns.
Mornings bring reality, mercifully dulled by numbness and shock.
Oh, God, how can I endure this un-welcome, un-acceptable, un-movable situation?
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden…..”
A quiet wisp of words descend “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
Through it all I hear Him and listen, still and quiet in my mind.
God whispers some beauty, which if I seek, I can find.
“Don’t worry about tomorrow” “Trade your weakness for my strength”
“My love will carry you through” faith will endure all things no matter the length.
God writes his signature on all creation - on every child, with care.
Look to the heavens, you’ll find promise and comfort there.
The Fallen are all home at last, their journey now complete,
“My peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you” a blessing oh so sweet.
The spirit brings us to communion for just a moment brief in time,
You’ve changed a life or two, but especially this life that’s mine.
Dear one, as your journey continues, a new path you’re called to steer,
God whispers and walks beside you, I pray you’ll keep him near.
Do you know that God whispers?
swp 2010
Back to the Future 2010
Well, once again, it has been some time since I posted about my experiences here at Dover AFB. I can only say that things have continued to be busy as ever and the days and weeks just slip away without much notice. We have seen nearly 280 fallen in the last 5 months or so. Given that my tour is only 179 days (6 months), well you can do the math and see that we've had a fallen military member arrive here every single day and on average more than one at a time since I began my tour here. That is staggering. What is even more staggering is that there is an entire world out there that is oblivious.
Soon, I will be departing Dover AFB and returning to what was once normal to me. Safe to say, however, that knowing, seeing and living what I've been a part of for the last 6 odd months will follow me all the days ahead changing all that was once normal. 280+ souls passed before me and you just can't help but be moved and changed by that many heroes. I will remember them, their families, their stories, their heroism, their dedication and their sacrifice as long as I live.
Today, was a particularly interesting experience. A veteran from the Vietnam war was brought to Dover as part of an investigation initiated by his son. The veteran was named Lance Corporal Wyatt. He was born in 1947 and killed in South Vietnam June 11, 1968 at the age of 21. There was a question, apparently, as to how he died, so the son called for this investigation to take place. Lance Corporal Wyatt was exhumed from his resting place in Missouri and flown to Dover AFB for a post mortem autopsy. Lance Corporal Wyatt had been laid to rest for 42 years since his death in 1968.
I watched as they removed his uniform and prepared his body for the autopsy. It was absolutely astonishing at how amazingly preserved his remains were. All of the doctors, morticians, forensic pathologists, medical examiners and imbalmers were there to witness this very unique event. They were all in awe of how incredible the preservation was, especially given the technology of the late 60's compared to today. Whoever prepared the remains did an amazing job.
What was even more interesting and amazing to consider was that Lance Corporal Wyatt's son, never met his father. His father died before he was born. So, as some of the folks in the room were discussing, the uniform was to be cleaned as best as possible and returned to the family for safe keeping. Also, after the autopsy and findings, they were to put him in a new uniform and prepare him for burial again sometime in the near future. It is my understanding that his remains were in such good shape that he was actually viewable!! So, we were guessing that the son would want to view his father before re-inturnment. Imagine you're 42 years old and you are going to see your father, whom you've never laid eyes on before. Only when you see him, you're seeing him as a 21 year old man, who died before you were born! How bizarre, yet incredibly interesting is that? The more I think about it the more amazing (and weird) it becomes.
Anyway, I thought I'd share that unique, yet interesting experience with you. God certainly works in very interesting and mysterious ways.
I'm beginning to countdown my days left here at Dover AFB. Not counting today, I have only 17 days left.
If I don't post again before the Christmas holiday, I want to wish everyone a very blessed Christmas.
Soon, I will be departing Dover AFB and returning to what was once normal to me. Safe to say, however, that knowing, seeing and living what I've been a part of for the last 6 odd months will follow me all the days ahead changing all that was once normal. 280+ souls passed before me and you just can't help but be moved and changed by that many heroes. I will remember them, their families, their stories, their heroism, their dedication and their sacrifice as long as I live.
Today, was a particularly interesting experience. A veteran from the Vietnam war was brought to Dover as part of an investigation initiated by his son. The veteran was named Lance Corporal Wyatt. He was born in 1947 and killed in South Vietnam June 11, 1968 at the age of 21. There was a question, apparently, as to how he died, so the son called for this investigation to take place. Lance Corporal Wyatt was exhumed from his resting place in Missouri and flown to Dover AFB for a post mortem autopsy. Lance Corporal Wyatt had been laid to rest for 42 years since his death in 1968.
I watched as they removed his uniform and prepared his body for the autopsy. It was absolutely astonishing at how amazingly preserved his remains were. All of the doctors, morticians, forensic pathologists, medical examiners and imbalmers were there to witness this very unique event. They were all in awe of how incredible the preservation was, especially given the technology of the late 60's compared to today. Whoever prepared the remains did an amazing job.
What was even more interesting and amazing to consider was that Lance Corporal Wyatt's son, never met his father. His father died before he was born. So, as some of the folks in the room were discussing, the uniform was to be cleaned as best as possible and returned to the family for safe keeping. Also, after the autopsy and findings, they were to put him in a new uniform and prepare him for burial again sometime in the near future. It is my understanding that his remains were in such good shape that he was actually viewable!! So, we were guessing that the son would want to view his father before re-inturnment. Imagine you're 42 years old and you are going to see your father, whom you've never laid eyes on before. Only when you see him, you're seeing him as a 21 year old man, who died before you were born! How bizarre, yet incredibly interesting is that? The more I think about it the more amazing (and weird) it becomes.
Anyway, I thought I'd share that unique, yet interesting experience with you. God certainly works in very interesting and mysterious ways.
I'm beginning to countdown my days left here at Dover AFB. Not counting today, I have only 17 days left.
If I don't post again before the Christmas holiday, I want to wish everyone a very blessed Christmas.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Thoughts & Prayers
Here are more fallen heroes since the last list that I posted. We continue receiving fallen warriors each and every day. Please keep them and their families in your prayers.
Spc. Brett W. Land, 24, of Wasco, CA (30 Oct)
Spc. Jonathan M. Curtis, 24, of Belmont, MA (1 Nov)
Pfc. Andrew N. Meari, 21, of Plainfield, IL (1 Nov)
1st Lt. James R. Zimmerman, 25, of Aroostook, ME (2 Nov)
Sgt. 1st Class Todd M. Harris, 37, of Tucson, AZ (3 Nov)
Spc. James C. Young, 25, of Rochester, IL (3 Nov)
Spc. Blake D. Whipple, 21, of Williamsville, NY (5 Nov)
Sgt. Michael F. Paranzino, 22, of Middletown, RI (5 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Brandon W. Pearson, 21, of Arvada, CO
(4 Nov)Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Broehm, 22, of Flagstaff, AZ (4 Nov)
Pfc. Shane M. Reifert, 23, of Cottrellville, MI (6 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Randy R. Braggs, 21, of Sierra Vista, AZ (6 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Jordan B. Emrick, 26, of Hoyleton, IL (5 Nov)
Sgt. Aaron B. Cruttenden, 25, of Mesa, AZ (7 Nov)
Spc. Dale J. Kridlo, 33, Hughestown, PA (7 Nov)
Sgt. Jason J. McCluskey, 26, of McAlester, OK (4 Nov)
2nd Lt. Robert M. Kelly, 29, of Tallahassee, FL (9 Nov)
Lance Cpl. James B. Stack, 20, of Arlington Heights, IL (10 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Dakota R. Huse, 19, of Greenwood, LA (9 Nov)
Senior Airman Andrew S. Bubacz, 23, of Dalzell, SC (12 Nov)
Cpl. Shawn D. Fannin, 32, of Wheelersburg, OH (12 nov)
Sgt. Edward H. Bolen, 25, of Chittenango, NY (10 Nov)
Spc. Shannon Chihuahua, 25, of Thomasville, GA (12 Nov)
Spc. David C. Lutes, 28, of Frostburg, MD (11 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Juan L. Rivadeneira, 27, of Davie, FL (12 Nov)
Cpl. Jacob R. Carver, 20, of Freeman, MO (12 Nov)
Spc. Jacob C. Carroll, 20, of Clemmons, NC (12 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Javier O. Ortiz Rivera, 26, of Rochester, NY (16 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Pape, 30, of Fort Wayne, IN (16 Nov)
Spc. Shane H. Ahmed, 31, of Chesterfield, MI (14 Nov)
Spc. Nathan E. Lillard, 26, of Knoxville, TN (14 Nov)
Spc. Scott T. Nagorski, 27, of Greenfield, WI (14 Nov)
Spc. Brett W. Land, 24, of Wasco, CA (30 Oct)
Spc. Jonathan M. Curtis, 24, of Belmont, MA (1 Nov)
Pfc. Andrew N. Meari, 21, of Plainfield, IL (1 Nov)
1st Lt. James R. Zimmerman, 25, of Aroostook, ME (2 Nov)
Sgt. 1st Class Todd M. Harris, 37, of Tucson, AZ (3 Nov)
Spc. James C. Young, 25, of Rochester, IL (3 Nov)
Spc. Blake D. Whipple, 21, of Williamsville, NY (5 Nov)
Sgt. Michael F. Paranzino, 22, of Middletown, RI (5 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Brandon W. Pearson, 21, of Arvada, CO
(4 Nov)Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Broehm, 22, of Flagstaff, AZ (4 Nov)
Pfc. Shane M. Reifert, 23, of Cottrellville, MI (6 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Randy R. Braggs, 21, of Sierra Vista, AZ (6 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Jordan B. Emrick, 26, of Hoyleton, IL (5 Nov)
Sgt. Aaron B. Cruttenden, 25, of Mesa, AZ (7 Nov)
Spc. Dale J. Kridlo, 33, Hughestown, PA (7 Nov)
Sgt. Jason J. McCluskey, 26, of McAlester, OK (4 Nov)
2nd Lt. Robert M. Kelly, 29, of Tallahassee, FL (9 Nov)
Lance Cpl. James B. Stack, 20, of Arlington Heights, IL (10 Nov)
Lance Cpl. Dakota R. Huse, 19, of Greenwood, LA (9 Nov)
Senior Airman Andrew S. Bubacz, 23, of Dalzell, SC (12 Nov)
Cpl. Shawn D. Fannin, 32, of Wheelersburg, OH (12 nov)
Sgt. Edward H. Bolen, 25, of Chittenango, NY (10 Nov)
Spc. Shannon Chihuahua, 25, of Thomasville, GA (12 Nov)
Spc. David C. Lutes, 28, of Frostburg, MD (11 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Juan L. Rivadeneira, 27, of Davie, FL (12 Nov)
Cpl. Jacob R. Carver, 20, of Freeman, MO (12 Nov)
Spc. Jacob C. Carroll, 20, of Clemmons, NC (12 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Javier O. Ortiz Rivera, 26, of Rochester, NY (16 Nov)
Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Pape, 30, of Fort Wayne, IN (16 Nov)
Spc. Shane H. Ahmed, 31, of Chesterfield, MI (14 Nov)
Spc. Nathan E. Lillard, 26, of Knoxville, TN (14 Nov)
Spc. Scott T. Nagorski, 27, of Greenfield, WI (14 Nov)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving 2010
Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. ~ W.T. Purkiser
One of my chaplains posted this quotation on facebook and I thought it was very insightful. This Thanksgiving has had a significant impact on me, because I realized that it is so easy to take our blessings for granted. Each year we as a society gather together for Thanksgiving and reflect on our blessings and the things we are each thankful for. At least, that is what we should be doing. For some, I'm sure, it's really just about eating a robust meal and falling asleep on the sofa while watching football.
During the past 24 hours 3 families learned that their loved one was lost in the war and won't be home to enjoy a Thanksgiving ever again. We spared one family of having to come to Dover on Thanksgiving day to witness the Dignified Transfer of their son, a fallen US Marine. The flight was delayed in Germany to give the family time to prepare and travel from California to Delaware, which is quite complicated given the volume of air travel that takes place during this holiday weekend. Still, though, they received a notification in the last 24hrs that their son was killed in action. I will meet them tomorrow and stand with them for their son's return home.
Thanksgiving for them will forever be changed and possibly bring with it painful memories for years. I thought deeply about this today and it brought some clarity into my life, which is so often transparent to most of us. We have so much to be eternally thankful for and to count as blessings for God's glory. Instantly, I thought of the breath I just took and then the next. As quickly as I could count them, another one passed. So many things get by us these days that we fail to grasp and understand. Most often they are the simplest of things. A breath, a blink of an eye, a heart beat, or a step. The amazing grace that happens within us, and gives us life to share with others, is going on without our taking notice.
I thought of a certain excerpt from a favorite book of mine that takes inventory of some of our most inherent blessings that we often don't truly think about or understand. They are all part of who we are and give us life. Here's the excerpt The God Memorandum from "The Greatest Miracle In The World" by Og Mandino:
"Are you blind? Does the sun rise and fall without your witness?
No. You can see ... and the hundred million receptors I have placed in your eyes enable you to enjoy the magic of a leaf, a snowflake, a pond, an eagle, a child, a cloud, a star, a rose, a rainbow ... and the look of love. Count one blessing.
Are you deaf? Can a baby laugh or cry without your attention?
No. You can hear ... and the twenty-four thousand fibers I have built in each of your ears vibrate to the wind in the trees, the tides on the rocks, the majesty of an opera, a robin's plea, children at play ... and the words I love you. Count another blessing.
Are you mute? Do your lips move and bring forth only spittle?
No. You can speak ... as can no other of my creatures, and your words can calm the angry, uplift the despondent, goad the quitter, cheer the unhappy, warm the lonely, praise the worthy, encourage the defeated, teach the ignorant ... and say I love you. Count another blessing.
Are you paralyzed? Does your helpless form despoil the land?
No. You can move. You are not a tree condemned to a small plot while the wind and world abuses you. You can stretch and run and dance and work, for within you I have designed five hundred muscles, two hundred bones, and seven miles of nerve fiber all synchronized by me to do your bidding. Count another blessing.
Are you unloved and unloving? Does loneliness engulf you, night and day?
No. No more. For now you know love's secret, that to receive love it must be given with no thought of its return. To love for fulfillment, satisfaction, or pride is no love. Love is a gift on which no return is demanded. Now you know that to love unselfishly is its own reward. And even should love not be returned it is not lost, for love not reciprocated will flow back to you and soften and purify your heart. Count another blessing. Count twice.
Is your heart stricken? Does it leak and strain to maintain your life?
No. Your heart is strong. Touch your chest and feel its rhythm, pulsating, hour after hour, day and night, thirty-six million beats each year, year after year, asleep or awake, pumping your blood through more than sixty thousand miles of veins, arteries, and tubing ... pumping more than six hundred thousand gallons each year. Man has never created such a machine. Count another blessing.
Are you diseased of skin? Do people turn in horror when you approach?
No. Your skin is clear and a marvel of creation, needing only that you tend it with soap and oil and brush and care. In time all steels will tarnish and rust, but not your skin. Eventually the strongest of metals will wear, with use, but not that layer that I have constructed around you. Constantly it renews itself, old cells replaced by new, just as the old you is now replaced by the new. Count another blessing.
Are your lungs befouled? Does your breath of life struggle to enter your body?
No. Your portholes to life support you even in the vilest of environments of your own making, and they labor always to filter life-giving oxygen through six hundred million pockets of folded flesh while they rid your body of gaseous wastes. Count another blessing.
Is your blood poisoned? Is it diluted with water and pus?
No. Within your five quarts of blood are twenty-two trillion blood cells and within each cell are millions of molecules and within each molecule is an atom oscillating at more than ten million times each second. Each second, two million of your blood cells die to be replaced by two million more in a resurrection that has continued since your first birth. As it has always been inside, so now it is on your outside. Count another blessing.
Are you feeble of mind? Can you no longer think for yourself?
No. Your brain is the most complex structure in the universe. I know. Within its three pounds are thirteen billion nerve cells, more than three times as many cells as there are people on your earth. To help you file away every perception, every sound, every taste, every smell, every action you have experienced since the day of your birth, I have implanted, within your cells, more than one thousand billion billion protein molecules. Every incident in your life is there waiting only your recall. And, to assist your brain in the control of your body I have dispersed, throughout your form, four million pain-sensitive structures, five hundred thousand touch detectors, and more than two hundred thousand temperature detectors. No nation's gold is better protected than you. None of your ancient wonders are greater than you.
You are my finest creation.
Within you is enough atomic energy to destroy any of the world's great cities ... and rebuild it.
Are you poor? Is there no gold or silver in your purse?
No. You are rich! Together we have just counted your wealth. Study the list. Count them again. Tally your assets!
You have so much. Your blessings overflow your cup ... and you have been unmindful of them, like a child spoiled in luxury, since I have bestowed them upon you with generosity and regularity.
What rich man, old and sick, feeble and helpless, would not exchange all the gold in his vault for the blessings you have treated so lightly."
I have witnessed so many fallen in these past few months, all miracles in their own rite, posessing the same blessings that are mentioned above. I hope and pray that they used their gifts to the greatest extent, while with us on this earth. As mentioned in the quote at the beginning of this post, it's how we use our blessings that allow us to truly measure our thanksgiving. Those of us that still walk this earth have a chance, everyday, to use the blessings and the gifts that God bestowed upon us. We should be thankful we have today, and lean not on our own understanding, but on the one who created us to direct our paths for tomorrow and the days He has planned for us. May we all be grateful and use our gifts to make a difference in this world, leaving it better than we found it.
I like to think about each one of the heroes I've met here at Dover in that sense. That they left this world a little better than they found it. Even if they changed one life along the way, that's enough for us all to be thankful for.
One of my chaplains posted this quotation on facebook and I thought it was very insightful. This Thanksgiving has had a significant impact on me, because I realized that it is so easy to take our blessings for granted. Each year we as a society gather together for Thanksgiving and reflect on our blessings and the things we are each thankful for. At least, that is what we should be doing. For some, I'm sure, it's really just about eating a robust meal and falling asleep on the sofa while watching football.
During the past 24 hours 3 families learned that their loved one was lost in the war and won't be home to enjoy a Thanksgiving ever again. We spared one family of having to come to Dover on Thanksgiving day to witness the Dignified Transfer of their son, a fallen US Marine. The flight was delayed in Germany to give the family time to prepare and travel from California to Delaware, which is quite complicated given the volume of air travel that takes place during this holiday weekend. Still, though, they received a notification in the last 24hrs that their son was killed in action. I will meet them tomorrow and stand with them for their son's return home.
Thanksgiving for them will forever be changed and possibly bring with it painful memories for years. I thought deeply about this today and it brought some clarity into my life, which is so often transparent to most of us. We have so much to be eternally thankful for and to count as blessings for God's glory. Instantly, I thought of the breath I just took and then the next. As quickly as I could count them, another one passed. So many things get by us these days that we fail to grasp and understand. Most often they are the simplest of things. A breath, a blink of an eye, a heart beat, or a step. The amazing grace that happens within us, and gives us life to share with others, is going on without our taking notice.
I thought of a certain excerpt from a favorite book of mine that takes inventory of some of our most inherent blessings that we often don't truly think about or understand. They are all part of who we are and give us life. Here's the excerpt The God Memorandum from "The Greatest Miracle In The World" by Og Mandino:
"Are you blind? Does the sun rise and fall without your witness?
No. You can see ... and the hundred million receptors I have placed in your eyes enable you to enjoy the magic of a leaf, a snowflake, a pond, an eagle, a child, a cloud, a star, a rose, a rainbow ... and the look of love. Count one blessing.
Are you deaf? Can a baby laugh or cry without your attention?
No. You can hear ... and the twenty-four thousand fibers I have built in each of your ears vibrate to the wind in the trees, the tides on the rocks, the majesty of an opera, a robin's plea, children at play ... and the words I love you. Count another blessing.
Are you mute? Do your lips move and bring forth only spittle?
No. You can speak ... as can no other of my creatures, and your words can calm the angry, uplift the despondent, goad the quitter, cheer the unhappy, warm the lonely, praise the worthy, encourage the defeated, teach the ignorant ... and say I love you. Count another blessing.
Are you paralyzed? Does your helpless form despoil the land?
No. You can move. You are not a tree condemned to a small plot while the wind and world abuses you. You can stretch and run and dance and work, for within you I have designed five hundred muscles, two hundred bones, and seven miles of nerve fiber all synchronized by me to do your bidding. Count another blessing.
Are you unloved and unloving? Does loneliness engulf you, night and day?
No. No more. For now you know love's secret, that to receive love it must be given with no thought of its return. To love for fulfillment, satisfaction, or pride is no love. Love is a gift on which no return is demanded. Now you know that to love unselfishly is its own reward. And even should love not be returned it is not lost, for love not reciprocated will flow back to you and soften and purify your heart. Count another blessing. Count twice.
Is your heart stricken? Does it leak and strain to maintain your life?
No. Your heart is strong. Touch your chest and feel its rhythm, pulsating, hour after hour, day and night, thirty-six million beats each year, year after year, asleep or awake, pumping your blood through more than sixty thousand miles of veins, arteries, and tubing ... pumping more than six hundred thousand gallons each year. Man has never created such a machine. Count another blessing.
Are you diseased of skin? Do people turn in horror when you approach?
No. Your skin is clear and a marvel of creation, needing only that you tend it with soap and oil and brush and care. In time all steels will tarnish and rust, but not your skin. Eventually the strongest of metals will wear, with use, but not that layer that I have constructed around you. Constantly it renews itself, old cells replaced by new, just as the old you is now replaced by the new. Count another blessing.
Are your lungs befouled? Does your breath of life struggle to enter your body?
No. Your portholes to life support you even in the vilest of environments of your own making, and they labor always to filter life-giving oxygen through six hundred million pockets of folded flesh while they rid your body of gaseous wastes. Count another blessing.
Is your blood poisoned? Is it diluted with water and pus?
No. Within your five quarts of blood are twenty-two trillion blood cells and within each cell are millions of molecules and within each molecule is an atom oscillating at more than ten million times each second. Each second, two million of your blood cells die to be replaced by two million more in a resurrection that has continued since your first birth. As it has always been inside, so now it is on your outside. Count another blessing.
Are you feeble of mind? Can you no longer think for yourself?
No. Your brain is the most complex structure in the universe. I know. Within its three pounds are thirteen billion nerve cells, more than three times as many cells as there are people on your earth. To help you file away every perception, every sound, every taste, every smell, every action you have experienced since the day of your birth, I have implanted, within your cells, more than one thousand billion billion protein molecules. Every incident in your life is there waiting only your recall. And, to assist your brain in the control of your body I have dispersed, throughout your form, four million pain-sensitive structures, five hundred thousand touch detectors, and more than two hundred thousand temperature detectors. No nation's gold is better protected than you. None of your ancient wonders are greater than you.
You are my finest creation.
Within you is enough atomic energy to destroy any of the world's great cities ... and rebuild it.
Are you poor? Is there no gold or silver in your purse?
No. You are rich! Together we have just counted your wealth. Study the list. Count them again. Tally your assets!
You have so much. Your blessings overflow your cup ... and you have been unmindful of them, like a child spoiled in luxury, since I have bestowed them upon you with generosity and regularity.
What rich man, old and sick, feeble and helpless, would not exchange all the gold in his vault for the blessings you have treated so lightly."
I have witnessed so many fallen in these past few months, all miracles in their own rite, posessing the same blessings that are mentioned above. I hope and pray that they used their gifts to the greatest extent, while with us on this earth. As mentioned in the quote at the beginning of this post, it's how we use our blessings that allow us to truly measure our thanksgiving. Those of us that still walk this earth have a chance, everyday, to use the blessings and the gifts that God bestowed upon us. We should be thankful we have today, and lean not on our own understanding, but on the one who created us to direct our paths for tomorrow and the days He has planned for us. May we all be grateful and use our gifts to make a difference in this world, leaving it better than we found it.
I like to think about each one of the heroes I've met here at Dover in that sense. That they left this world a little better than they found it. Even if they changed one life along the way, that's enough for us all to be thankful for.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Fisher House Dedication
Today I attended a dedication ceremony for the Fisher House that was built on Dover Air Force Base. The house is a place where families of the fallen can stay without cost as they wait for the homecoming they never wanted to happen.
Many distinguished guests were in attendance. The Secretary of the Air Force, Chief of Staff for the US Air Force, Chief of Chaplains for the US Air Force, Gold Star Moms & Wives, and Montel Williams to name a notable few. The ceremony was extremely moving and brought tears to my eyes many times, as they talked about the Fisher House and the role it will play here at Dover.
All other Fisher Houses, of which there are 49, are designed to house military families needing to be close to a loved one during hospitalization due to illness, disease, or injury. The Fisher House at Dover is the only one of its kind that is there to comfort families as they wait for the Dignified Transfer of their fallen loved one. Truly, this place is unique due to the sacredness of its purpose. It will be ready for occupancy shortly after Thanksgiving, so I will have a chance to see it put to use before I head home.
Inside this home for the families of our fallen, there are many rooms and places to seek peace and comfort. There are 9 bedrooms, a large formal dining room, a formal living room area, a massive kitchen with every kind of appliance imaginable. There is a laundry facility and a sitting area with a huge flat screen television. Outside there are gardens and a labyrinth, which lead to a meditation pagoda for peaceful reflection and quiet solitude. A sidewalk eventually ends at the Center for the Families of the Fallen.
What was once just a parking lot and some grass surrounding the Center for the Families of the Fallen, has now been transformed into a beautiful campus for these families to find peace, comfort and rest, as they await the Dignified Transfer of their fallen loved one. As Chairman Kenneth Fisher said, it was a gift long-overdue to the deserving. "We make a solemn vow to honor the gifts these heroes have left us," Fisher said. "There can be nothing more sacred than that."
If your interested in learning more about the Fisher House Foundation, you can go to their webpage: www.fisherhouse.org
Many distinguished guests were in attendance. The Secretary of the Air Force, Chief of Staff for the US Air Force, Chief of Chaplains for the US Air Force, Gold Star Moms & Wives, and Montel Williams to name a notable few. The ceremony was extremely moving and brought tears to my eyes many times, as they talked about the Fisher House and the role it will play here at Dover.
All other Fisher Houses, of which there are 49, are designed to house military families needing to be close to a loved one during hospitalization due to illness, disease, or injury. The Fisher House at Dover is the only one of its kind that is there to comfort families as they wait for the Dignified Transfer of their fallen loved one. Truly, this place is unique due to the sacredness of its purpose. It will be ready for occupancy shortly after Thanksgiving, so I will have a chance to see it put to use before I head home.
Inside this home for the families of our fallen, there are many rooms and places to seek peace and comfort. There are 9 bedrooms, a large formal dining room, a formal living room area, a massive kitchen with every kind of appliance imaginable. There is a laundry facility and a sitting area with a huge flat screen television. Outside there are gardens and a labyrinth, which lead to a meditation pagoda for peaceful reflection and quiet solitude. A sidewalk eventually ends at the Center for the Families of the Fallen.
What was once just a parking lot and some grass surrounding the Center for the Families of the Fallen, has now been transformed into a beautiful campus for these families to find peace, comfort and rest, as they await the Dignified Transfer of their fallen loved one. As Chairman Kenneth Fisher said, it was a gift long-overdue to the deserving. "We make a solemn vow to honor the gifts these heroes have left us," Fisher said. "There can be nothing more sacred than that."
If your interested in learning more about the Fisher House Foundation, you can go to their webpage: www.fisherhouse.org
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Continued Thoughts & Prayers
A number of weeks ago, I posted a list of the fallen that passed through Dover AFB, since my arrival. I entitled the post "Prayer List".
The following are names of the fallen that arrived back on american soil since I posted that list on October 5, 2010.
Staff Sgt. Willie J. Harley Jr., 48, of Aiken, SC
Spc. Luther W. Rabon Jr., 32, of Lexington, SC
Sgt. Anthony D. Matteoni, 22, of Union City, MI
Sgt. 1st Class Lance H. Vogeler, 29, of Frederick, MD
Spc. Joseph T. Prentler, 20, of Fenwick, MI
Sgt. Brian J. Pedro, 27, of Rosamond, CA
Senior Airman Daniel J. Johnson, 23, of Schiller Park, IL
Pfc. Cody A. Board, 19, of McKinney, TX
Sgt. Karl A. Campbell, 34, of Chiefland, FL
Pfc. Ryane G. Clark, 22, of New London, MN
Lance Cpl. Scott A. Lynch, 22, of Greenwood Lake, NY
Cpl. Stephen C. Sockalosky, 21, of Cordele, Ga
Hospital Corpsman Edwin Gonzalez, 22, of North Miami Beach, FL
Lance Cpl. John T. Sparks, 23, of Chicago, IL
Sgt. Frank R. Zaehringer III, 23, of Reno, NV
Staff Sgt. Dave J. Weigle, 29, of Philadelphia, PA
Spc. David A. Hess, 25, of Ruskin, FL
Spc. Matthew C. Powell, 20, of Slidell, LA
Lance Cpl. Raymon L. A. Johnson, 22, of Midland, GA
Cpl. Justin J. Cain, 22, of Manitowoc, WI
Lance Cpl. Phillip D. Vinnedge, 19, of Saint Charles, MO
Lance Cpl. Joseph E. Rodewald, 21, of Albany, OR
Pfc. Victor A. Dew, 20, of Granite Bay, CA
Pfc. Jordan M. Byrd, 19, of Grantsville, UT
Lance Cpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, 21, of Clarksville, AR
Lance Cpl. Alec E. Catherwood, 19, of Byron, IL
Sgt. Eric C. Newman, 30, of Waynesboro, MS
Sgt. Carlos A. Benitez, 24, of Carrollton, TX
Spc. Rafael Martinez Jr., 36, of Spring Valley, CA
Pfc. Tramaine J. Billingsley, 20, of Portsmouth, VA
Lance Cpl. Joseph C. Lopez, 26, of Rosamond, CA
Lance Cpl. James D. Boelk, 24, of Oceanside, CA
Pfc. Dylan T. Reid, 24, of Springfield, MO
Sgt. Ian M. Tawney, 25, of Dallas, OR
Cpl. Jorge Villarreal Jr., 22, of San Antonio, TX
Lance Cpl. Francisco R. Jackson, 24, of Elizabeth, NJ
Staff Sgt. Joshua J. Cullins, 28, of Simi Valley, CA
Spc. Gerald R. Jenkins, 19, of Circleville, OH
Staff Sgt. Kenneth K. McAninch, 28, of Logansport, IN
Spc. Ronnie J. Pallares, 19, of Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Spc. Steven L. Dupont, 20, of Lafayette, LA
Sgt. 1st Class Charles M. Sadell, 34, of Columbia, MO
Staff Sgt. Aracely Gonzalez O’Malley, 31, of Brawley, CA
Spc. Thomas A. Moffitt, 21, of Wichita, KS
Pfc. David R. Jones Jr., 21, of Saint Johnsville, NY
Sgt. 1st Class Phillip C. Tanner, 43, of Sheridan, WY
Sgt. Michael D. Kirspel Jr., 23, of Hopatcong, NJ
Lance Cpl. Terry E. Honeycutt Jr., 19, of Waldorf, MD
Staff Sgt. Adam L. Dickmyer, 26, of Winston Salem, NC
Spc. Pedro A. Maldonado, 20, of Houston, TX
Spc. Diego A. Solorzanovaldovinos, 24, of Huntington Park, CA
Spc. Brett W. Land, 24, of Wasco, CA
Spc. Jonathan M. Curtis, 24, of Belmont, MA
Pfc. Andrew N. Meari, 21, of Plainfield, IL
1st Lt. James R. Zimmerman, 25, of Aroostook, ME
Sgt. 1st Class Todd M. Harris, 37, of Tucson, AZ
Spc. James C. Young, 25, of Rochester, IL
The following are names of the fallen that arrived back on american soil since I posted that list on October 5, 2010.
Staff Sgt. Willie J. Harley Jr., 48, of Aiken, SC
Spc. Luther W. Rabon Jr., 32, of Lexington, SC
Sgt. Anthony D. Matteoni, 22, of Union City, MI
Sgt. 1st Class Lance H. Vogeler, 29, of Frederick, MD
Spc. Joseph T. Prentler, 20, of Fenwick, MI
Sgt. Brian J. Pedro, 27, of Rosamond, CA
Senior Airman Daniel J. Johnson, 23, of Schiller Park, IL
Pfc. Cody A. Board, 19, of McKinney, TX
Sgt. Karl A. Campbell, 34, of Chiefland, FL
Pfc. Ryane G. Clark, 22, of New London, MN
Lance Cpl. Scott A. Lynch, 22, of Greenwood Lake, NY
Cpl. Stephen C. Sockalosky, 21, of Cordele, Ga
Hospital Corpsman Edwin Gonzalez, 22, of North Miami Beach, FL
Lance Cpl. John T. Sparks, 23, of Chicago, IL
Sgt. Frank R. Zaehringer III, 23, of Reno, NV
Staff Sgt. Dave J. Weigle, 29, of Philadelphia, PA
Spc. David A. Hess, 25, of Ruskin, FL
Spc. Matthew C. Powell, 20, of Slidell, LA
Lance Cpl. Raymon L. A. Johnson, 22, of Midland, GA
Cpl. Justin J. Cain, 22, of Manitowoc, WI
Lance Cpl. Phillip D. Vinnedge, 19, of Saint Charles, MO
Lance Cpl. Joseph E. Rodewald, 21, of Albany, OR
Pfc. Victor A. Dew, 20, of Granite Bay, CA
Pfc. Jordan M. Byrd, 19, of Grantsville, UT
Lance Cpl. Irvin M. Ceniceros, 21, of Clarksville, AR
Lance Cpl. Alec E. Catherwood, 19, of Byron, IL
Sgt. Eric C. Newman, 30, of Waynesboro, MS
Sgt. Carlos A. Benitez, 24, of Carrollton, TX
Spc. Rafael Martinez Jr., 36, of Spring Valley, CA
Pfc. Tramaine J. Billingsley, 20, of Portsmouth, VA
Lance Cpl. Joseph C. Lopez, 26, of Rosamond, CA
Lance Cpl. James D. Boelk, 24, of Oceanside, CA
Pfc. Dylan T. Reid, 24, of Springfield, MO
Sgt. Ian M. Tawney, 25, of Dallas, OR
Cpl. Jorge Villarreal Jr., 22, of San Antonio, TX
Lance Cpl. Francisco R. Jackson, 24, of Elizabeth, NJ
Staff Sgt. Joshua J. Cullins, 28, of Simi Valley, CA
Spc. Gerald R. Jenkins, 19, of Circleville, OH
Staff Sgt. Kenneth K. McAninch, 28, of Logansport, IN
Spc. Ronnie J. Pallares, 19, of Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Spc. Steven L. Dupont, 20, of Lafayette, LA
Sgt. 1st Class Charles M. Sadell, 34, of Columbia, MO
Staff Sgt. Aracely Gonzalez O’Malley, 31, of Brawley, CA
Spc. Thomas A. Moffitt, 21, of Wichita, KS
Pfc. David R. Jones Jr., 21, of Saint Johnsville, NY
Sgt. 1st Class Phillip C. Tanner, 43, of Sheridan, WY
Sgt. Michael D. Kirspel Jr., 23, of Hopatcong, NJ
Lance Cpl. Terry E. Honeycutt Jr., 19, of Waldorf, MD
Staff Sgt. Adam L. Dickmyer, 26, of Winston Salem, NC
Spc. Pedro A. Maldonado, 20, of Houston, TX
Spc. Diego A. Solorzanovaldovinos, 24, of Huntington Park, CA
Spc. Brett W. Land, 24, of Wasco, CA
Spc. Jonathan M. Curtis, 24, of Belmont, MA
Pfc. Andrew N. Meari, 21, of Plainfield, IL
1st Lt. James R. Zimmerman, 25, of Aroostook, ME
Sgt. 1st Class Todd M. Harris, 37, of Tucson, AZ
Spc. James C. Young, 25, of Rochester, IL
In addition, please keep the the families of Michael F. Paranzino, Matthew J. Broehm, Brandon Pearson, and Jason J. McCluskey, who were present last night for their Dignified Transfer to United States soil.
Please be mindful, also, that we will be with several more families this evening to bring home 4 more brave americans who gave the ultimate sacrifice for this country and for the sake of liberty and freedom throughout this world. May the comfort and peace of God be with all of these servicemen and their families during this Veteran's Day week and as they deal with the grief and sorrow of their loss in the days that lie ahead.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (112)
Monday, November 1, 2010
Visible Reminders
Its been sometime since I posted my last blog. I am not sure why, but several reasons come to mind. One, I'm just too busy to sit down and write several times a week. Two, I hesitate to write too many sad & depressing accounts each month, figuring that after a while, no one will want to read them anymore. Three, I think alot more now about what truly will be impactful, versus the day to day, week to week events. Lastly, my days literally move past with blazing speed and what happens becomes transparent and I am forced to focus on what lies ahead, rather than what has taken place.
Today, however, I was thoroughly engaged in completing production on a tribute DVD that I started a couple months ago. The idea was originally to produce a presentation that encompassed all the names of the fallen heroes that we cared for here during this tour. I set a goal to complete the project by the time my team and I leave the mortuary. I would present a copy to each chaplain that I worked with and it would be a keepsake for them. A time capsule, if you will, of all the fallen we touched during our brief moment in this place. So, I began to teach myself how to use Windows Movie Maker on my laptop. I began to search out riveting photos on the Air Force Mortuary Affairs website, which by the way is out in the public domain. So, safe to say, all the pictures and names that I accessed were already released and cleared by the Public Affairs office. The more I pondered the concept of building this presentation, the more detailed and involved it became.
I chose several pieces of music to accompany the video. Each piece moves the story along and adds reflection and emotion to the production. The first song is called "Healing Hand Of God" by Jeremy Camp, followed by "Amazing Grace" played by a Navy brass ensemble, and the third piece is a majestic instrumental called "Soaring Splendor" written to complement a narrative on Banff National Park in Alberta Canada. All the musical elements combine with transitioning photos of Dignified Transfers and names of all the fallen beginning June 25, 2010 to October 31, 2010.
A staggering 231 fallen heroes have passed through Dover Air Force Base since I began my work here in late June. I added a couple dozen more today to be as current as possible, so the first rendition of the DVD I'm making can be used for a remembrance service on Veteran's Day. The chaplain team is planning a service on November 8th, to pay tribute to our Veteran's and our Fallen. I offered the presentation a little earlier than planned, thinking it would be a nice accompaniment to the service. So, it will be viewed as part of the program. I will continue working on it throughout November and December so that when we are finished with our tour, it will encompass all who fell and passed before our eyes. I can't even imagine how many names will be in the presentation when my time is done here. It is just a sobering thought.
To add even more levity to that number, think about all the family members, who came here to attend the dignified transfers. The chaplain team I'm a part of has cared for and tended to each family during this time. We also worked in the mortuary with all the technicians and deployed staff to prepare all the remains of our fallen for their final trip home. The chaplain team is an integral part of the resiliency program in the mortuary too, so we also work on ensuring that each member is maintaining a healthy spirit and counseled on wellness when working here. I could continue with many other duties we perform, but I digress.
You know, today, as I was working on completing the DVD for the Veteran's Day service, I was listening to the television. News programs popped in and out throughout the day. I could hear reports of all kinds of things typical of an early morning news program. In particular, the political ads were running at nauseum, which prompted me to hit the mute button before my ears began bleeding. I thought and reflected on how each and every day there is someone in our armed services giving their lives in sacrifice for this country. They serve our nation and go above and beyond what any typical citizen would do to make this a free society to live in and they don't even get an honorable mention, so people can be reminded of those giving all to a cause greater than any. Instead we hear about a flight attendant, who popped the escape chute and jumped off the plane, or a celebrity who is headed to rehab for the 5th or 6th time. A movie star gets wasted and trashes a hotel room, or political leaders blaming each other for petty, bogus issues. What we take for granted is quite shameful. In just a few short months, 231 brave americans came home having lost their lives in unimagineable circumstances. What I've witnessed most people can't fathom in their worst nightmares. Yet, our society just goes on, blindly forgetting the cost that is paid for their freedoms and rights. On Veteran's Day, most vets will be working while many others get the day off and don't even think of saying thank you or paying tribute in some small fashion to the people who sacrificed most of their lives to creating this free society we enjoy. Of course, there are our veteran's, our fallen, who never made it home at all, who deserve a thoughtful prayer. I wonder, if in today's culture, many really stop to think, REALLY THINK and care about the cost, which is paid on their behalf every single day. For me, there are visible reminders each day, which will stay with me the rest of my life. The Dignified Transfers, the families, the fallen and all that takes place here to honor and respect them. Thanks be to God for their service and their sacrifice.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (102)
Today, however, I was thoroughly engaged in completing production on a tribute DVD that I started a couple months ago. The idea was originally to produce a presentation that encompassed all the names of the fallen heroes that we cared for here during this tour. I set a goal to complete the project by the time my team and I leave the mortuary. I would present a copy to each chaplain that I worked with and it would be a keepsake for them. A time capsule, if you will, of all the fallen we touched during our brief moment in this place. So, I began to teach myself how to use Windows Movie Maker on my laptop. I began to search out riveting photos on the Air Force Mortuary Affairs website, which by the way is out in the public domain. So, safe to say, all the pictures and names that I accessed were already released and cleared by the Public Affairs office. The more I pondered the concept of building this presentation, the more detailed and involved it became.
I chose several pieces of music to accompany the video. Each piece moves the story along and adds reflection and emotion to the production. The first song is called "Healing Hand Of God" by Jeremy Camp, followed by "Amazing Grace" played by a Navy brass ensemble, and the third piece is a majestic instrumental called "Soaring Splendor" written to complement a narrative on Banff National Park in Alberta Canada. All the musical elements combine with transitioning photos of Dignified Transfers and names of all the fallen beginning June 25, 2010 to October 31, 2010.
A staggering 231 fallen heroes have passed through Dover Air Force Base since I began my work here in late June. I added a couple dozen more today to be as current as possible, so the first rendition of the DVD I'm making can be used for a remembrance service on Veteran's Day. The chaplain team is planning a service on November 8th, to pay tribute to our Veteran's and our Fallen. I offered the presentation a little earlier than planned, thinking it would be a nice accompaniment to the service. So, it will be viewed as part of the program. I will continue working on it throughout November and December so that when we are finished with our tour, it will encompass all who fell and passed before our eyes. I can't even imagine how many names will be in the presentation when my time is done here. It is just a sobering thought.
To add even more levity to that number, think about all the family members, who came here to attend the dignified transfers. The chaplain team I'm a part of has cared for and tended to each family during this time. We also worked in the mortuary with all the technicians and deployed staff to prepare all the remains of our fallen for their final trip home. The chaplain team is an integral part of the resiliency program in the mortuary too, so we also work on ensuring that each member is maintaining a healthy spirit and counseled on wellness when working here. I could continue with many other duties we perform, but I digress.
You know, today, as I was working on completing the DVD for the Veteran's Day service, I was listening to the television. News programs popped in and out throughout the day. I could hear reports of all kinds of things typical of an early morning news program. In particular, the political ads were running at nauseum, which prompted me to hit the mute button before my ears began bleeding. I thought and reflected on how each and every day there is someone in our armed services giving their lives in sacrifice for this country. They serve our nation and go above and beyond what any typical citizen would do to make this a free society to live in and they don't even get an honorable mention, so people can be reminded of those giving all to a cause greater than any. Instead we hear about a flight attendant, who popped the escape chute and jumped off the plane, or a celebrity who is headed to rehab for the 5th or 6th time. A movie star gets wasted and trashes a hotel room, or political leaders blaming each other for petty, bogus issues. What we take for granted is quite shameful. In just a few short months, 231 brave americans came home having lost their lives in unimagineable circumstances. What I've witnessed most people can't fathom in their worst nightmares. Yet, our society just goes on, blindly forgetting the cost that is paid for their freedoms and rights. On Veteran's Day, most vets will be working while many others get the day off and don't even think of saying thank you or paying tribute in some small fashion to the people who sacrificed most of their lives to creating this free society we enjoy. Of course, there are our veteran's, our fallen, who never made it home at all, who deserve a thoughtful prayer. I wonder, if in today's culture, many really stop to think, REALLY THINK and care about the cost, which is paid on their behalf every single day. For me, there are visible reminders each day, which will stay with me the rest of my life. The Dignified Transfers, the families, the fallen and all that takes place here to honor and respect them. Thanks be to God for their service and their sacrifice.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (102)
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Prayer List
Since I started my tour here, these are the names of the fallen servicemembers that have passed through Dover Air Force Base mortuary. Each has a life story, which impacted the lives of many throughout this earth. I have met many of their family members and friends, including children, and walked with them to witness the Dignified Transfer. Some held me and some I held closely to let them know that they weren't alone in their grief and loss.
In most cases, the very next day, I walked many of the servicemembers, named below, through the mortuary preparations that would see them toward their final trip home. It was a distinct honor to serve with them, but also to serve them.
Please pray for these fallen and their loved ones. They lived, served and gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect life as we all know it today.
Sgt. John M. Rogers, 26, of Scottsdale, AZ
Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes, 21, of Epps, LA
Spc. David A. Holmes, 34, of Tennille, GA
Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw, 31, of Exeter, ME
Spc. David W. Thomas, 40, of St. Petersburg, FL
Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk, 25, of Orono, ME
Spc. Matthew R. Hennigan, 20, of Las Vegas, NV
Cpl. Larry D. Harris Jr., 24, of Thornton, CO
Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher D. Chapleau, 33, of LaGrange, KY
Spc. Morganne M. McBeth, 19, of Fredricksburg, VA
Sgt. Johnny W. Lumpkin, 38, of Columbus, GA
Pfc. Ryan J. Grady, 25, of Bristow, OK
Capt David A. Wisniewski, 31, of Moville, IA
Spc. Louis R. Fastuca, 24, of West Chester, PA
Spc. Clayton D. McGarrah, 20, of Harrison, AR
Pfc. David Jefferson, 23, of Philadelphia, PA
Sgt. Jordan E. Tuttle , 22, of West Monroe, LA
Pfc. Edwin C. Wood, 18, of Omaha, Neb.
Staff Sgt. Christopher F. Cabacoy, 30, of Virginia Beach, VA
Sgt. Andrew J. Creighton, 23, of Laurel, DE
Pfc. Jacob A. Dennis, 22, of Powder Springs, GA
Spc. Keenan A. Cooper, 19, of Wahpeton, ND
Spc. Jerod H. Osborne, 20, of Royse City, TX
Staff Sgt. Marc A. Arizmendez, 30, of Anaheim, CA
Spc. Roger Lee, 26, of Monterey, CA
Pfc. Michael S. Pridham, 19, of Louisville, KY
Pfc. Anthony W. Simmons, 25, of Tallahassee, FL
Spc. Robert W. Crow, 42, of Kansas City, MO
Spc. Joseph W. Dimock II, 21, of Wildwood, IL
Sgt. Donald R. Edgerton, 33, of Murphy, NC
Staff Sgt. Jesse W. Ainsworth, 24, of Dayton, TX
Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Antonik, 29, of Crystal Lake, IL
Lance Cpl. Daniel G. Raney, 21, of Pleasant View, TN
Lance Cpl. Tyler A. Roads, 20, of Burney, CA
Spc. Carlos J. Negron, 40, of Fort Meyers, FL
Pfc. Nathaniel D. Garvin, 20, of Radcliff, KY
Sgt. Shaun M. Mittler, 32, of Austin, TX
Spc. Christopher J. Moon, 20, of Tucson, AZ
Pvt. Brandon M. King, 23, of Tallahassee, FL
1st Lt. Christopher S. Goeke, 23,of MN
Staff Sgt. Christopher T. Stout, 34, of Worthville, KY
Staff Sgt. Sheldon L. Tate, 27, of Hinesville, GA
Spc. Chase Stanley, 21, of Napa, CA
Spc. Jesse D. Reed, 26, of Orefield, PA
Spc. Matthew J. Johnson, 21, of Maplewood, MN
Sgt. Zachary M. Fisher, 24, of Ballwin, MO
Sgt. Matthew W. Weikert, 29, of Jacksonville, IL
Sgt. 1st Class John H. Jarrell, 32, of Brunson, SC
Sgt. Leston M. Winters, 30, of Sour Lake, TX
Cpl. Dave M. Santos, 21, of Rota, Marianas Islands
Staff Sgt. Justus S. Bartelt, 27, of Polo, IL
Sgt. Justin B. Allen, 23, of Coal Grove, OH
Gunnery Sgt. Christopher L. Eastman, 28, of Moose Pass, AR
1st Lt. Robert N. Bennedsen, 25, of Vashon, WA
Sgt. Anibal Santiago, 37, of Belvidere, IL
Sgt. Jesse R. Tilton, 23, of Decatur, IL
Cpl. Paul J. Miller, 22, of Traverse City, MI
Staff Sgt. Brian F. Piercy, 27, of Clovis, CA
Cpl. Julio Vargas, 23, of Sylmar, CA
Cpl. Joe L. Wrightsman, 23, of Jonesboro, LA
Pfc. James J. Oquin, 20, of El Paso, TX
Lt. Col. Mario D. Carazo, 41, of Springfield, OH
Maj. James M. Weis, 37, of Toms River, NJ
Staff Sgt. Conrad A. Mora, 24, of San Diego, CA
Sgt. Daniel Lim, 23, of Cypress, CA
Spc. Joseph A. Bauer, 27, of Cincinnati, OH
Pfc. Andrew L. Hand, 25, of Enterprise, AL
Lance Cpl. Frederik E. Vazquez, 20, of Melrose Park, IL
Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin McNeley, 30, of Wheatridge, CO
Petty Officer 3rd Class Jarod Newlove, 25, of Renton, WA
Lance Cpl. Abram L. Howard, 21, of Williamsport, PA
Lance Cpl. Shane R. Martin, 23, of Spring, TX
Capt. Jason E. Holbrook, 28, of Burnet, TX
Staff Sgt. Kyle R. Warren, 28, of Manchester, NH
Spc. Michael L. Stansbery, 21, of Mount Juliet, TN
Sgt. Kyle B. Stout, 25, of Texarkana, TX
Master Sgt. Jared N. Van Aalst, 34, of Laconia, NH
Cpl. Max W. Donahue, 23, of Highlands Ranch, CO
Spc. Faith R. Hinkley, 23, of Colorado Springs, CO
Sgt. Andrew C. Nicol, 23, of Eaton, MI
Pfc. Bradley D. Rappuhn, 24, of Grand Ledge, MI
Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Cornelius, 20, of Ashtabula, OH
Pfc. Vincent E. Gammone III, 19, of Christiana, TN
Pfc. Paul O. Cuzzupe, 23, of Plant City, FL
Pfc. John E. Andrade, 19, of San Antonio, TX
Sgt. Jose L. Saenz III, 30, of Pleasanton, TX
Sgt. Christopher N. Karch, 23, of Indianapolis, IN
Cpl. Kristopher D. Greer, 25, of Ashland City, TN
Staff Sgt. Michael A. Bock, 26, of Leesburg, FL
Spc. Jamal M. Rhett, 24, of Palmyra, NJ
Staff Sgt. Derek J. Farley, 24, of Nassau, NY
Pfc. Benjamen G. Chisholm, 24, of Fort Worth, TX
Pvt. Charles M. High, IV, 21, of Albuquerque, NM
Lance Cpl. Kevin E. Oratowski, 23, of Wheaton, IL
Sgt. 1st Class Edgar N. Roberts, 39, of Hinesville, GA
Sgt. Martin A. Lugo, 24, of Tucson, AZ
Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Collin Thomas, 33, of Morehead, KY
Cpl. Christopher J. Boyd, 22, of Palatine, IL
Lance Cpl. Cody S. Childers, 19, of Chesapeake, VA
Spc. Christopher S. Wright, 23, of Tollesboro, KY
Lance Cpl. Nathaniel J. A. Schultz, 19, of Safety Harbor, FL
Pfc. Alexis V. Maldonado, 20, of Wichita Falls, TX
Sgt. Brandon E. Maggart, 24, of Kirksville, MO
Sgt. Jason D. Calo, 23, of Lexington, KY
Spc. Pedro A. Millet Meletiche, 20, of Elizabeth, NJ
Sgt. Steven J. Deluzio, 25, of South Glastonbury, CT
Spc. Tristan H. Southworth, 21, of West Danville, VT
Sgt. Ronald A. Rodriguez, 26, of Falls Church, VA
Lance Cpl. Robert J. Newton, 21, of Creve Coeur, IL
Pfc. Justin B. Shoecraft, 28, of Elkhart, IN
Petty Officer 3rd Class James M. Swink, 20, of Yucca Valley, CA
Master Sgt. Daniel L. Fedder, 34, of Pine City, MN
Staff Sgt. James R. Ide, 32, of Festus, MO
Spc. James C. Robinson, 27, of Lebanon, OH
Pfc. Chad D. Coleman, 20, of Moreland, GA
Pvt. Adam J. Novak, 20, of Prairie du Sac, WI
Capt. Ellery R. Wallace, 33, of UT
Pfc. Bryn T. Raver, 20, of Harrison, AR
Gunnery Sgt. Floyd E. C. Holley, 36, of Casselberry, FL
Sgt. Patrick K. Durham, 24, of Chattanooga, TN
Spc. Andrew J. Castro, 20, of Westlake Village, CA
Sgt. Joseph A. Bovia, 24, of Kenner, LA
Lance Cpl. Cody A. Roberts, 22, of Boise, ID
Lance Cpl. Christopher B. Rodgers, 20, of Griffin, GA
2nd Lt. Mark A. Noziska, 24, of Papillon, NE
Staff Sgt. Casey J. Grochowiak, 34, of Lompoc, CA
Lance Cpl. Joshua T. Twigg, 21, of Indiana, PA
Staff Sgt. Vinson B. Adkinson III, 26, of Harper, KS
Sgt. Raymond C. Alcaraz, 20, of Redlands, CA
Pfc. Matthew E. George, 22, of Gransboro, NC
Pfc. James A. Page, 23, of Titusville, FL
Pfc. Diego M. Montoya, 20, of San Antonio, TX
Capt. Jason T. McMahon, 35, of Mulvane, KS
Lance Cpl. Ross S. Carver, 21, of Rocky Point, NC
Cpl. Philip G. E. Charte, 22, of Goffstown, NH
Sgt. Jesse M. Balthaser, 23, of Columbus, OH
Sgt. Philip C. Jenkins, 26, of Decatur, IN
Pvt. James F. McClamrock, 22, of Huntersville, NC
Cpl. John C. Bishop, 25, of Columbus, IN
1st Lt. Todd W. Weaver, 26, of Hampton, VA
Sgt. Ryan J. Hopkins, 21, of Livermore, Calif
Senior Airman James A. Hansen, 25, of Athens, MI
Sgt. John F. Burner III, 32, of Baltimore, MD
Sgt. Aaron K. Kramer, 22, of Salt Lake City, UT
Senior Airman Daniel R. Sanchez, 23, of El Paso, TX
Spc. Deangelo B. Snow, 22, of Saginaw, MI
1st Lt. Scott J. Fleming, 24, of Marietta, GA
1st Lt. Staff Sgt. Jaime C. Newman, 27, of Richmond, VA
1st Lt. Eric Yates, 26, of Rineyville, KY
Sgt. 1st Class Ronald A. Grider, 30, Brighton, IL
Spc. Timothy L. Johnson, 24, of Randolph, NY
Pfc. Barbara Vieyra, 22, of Mesa, AZ
Maj. Paul D. Carron, 33, of MO
Spc. Joshua A. Harton, 23, of Bethlehem, PA
Pfc. Joshua S. Ose, 19, of Hernando, MS
Senior Airman Michael J. Buras, 23, of Fitzgerald, GA
Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, 29, of Owings, MD
Senior Chief Petty Officer David B. McLendon, 30, of Thomasville, GA
Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, 26, of Hurland, MO
Petty Officer 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, 24, of Toms River, NJ
Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, IA
Chief Warrant Officer Matthew G. Wagstaff, 34, of Orem, UT
Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, MN
Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, IL
Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, IN
Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa, 20, of Swanton, VT
Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, ME
Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, CA
Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, CT
Spc. Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Holly Hill, FL
Pfc. William B. Dawson, 20, of Tunica, MS
Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam.
Sgt. Mark A. Simpson, 40, of Peoria, IL
Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, OH
Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri, 20, of Gallitzin, PA
Senior Airman Mark Forester, 29, of Tuscaloosa, AL
Lance Cpl. Timothy M. Jackson, 22, of Corbin, KY
Sgt. Justin A. Officer, 26, of Wichita, KS
Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio, TX
In most cases, the very next day, I walked many of the servicemembers, named below, through the mortuary preparations that would see them toward their final trip home. It was a distinct honor to serve with them, but also to serve them.
Please pray for these fallen and their loved ones. They lived, served and gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect life as we all know it today.
Sgt. John M. Rogers, 26, of Scottsdale, AZ
Pfc. Bryant J. Haynes, 21, of Epps, LA
Spc. David A. Holmes, 34, of Tennille, GA
Staff Sgt. Eric B. Shaw, 31, of Exeter, ME
Spc. David W. Thomas, 40, of St. Petersburg, FL
Staff Sgt. Brandon M. Silk, 25, of Orono, ME
Spc. Matthew R. Hennigan, 20, of Las Vegas, NV
Cpl. Larry D. Harris Jr., 24, of Thornton, CO
Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher D. Chapleau, 33, of LaGrange, KY
Spc. Morganne M. McBeth, 19, of Fredricksburg, VA
Sgt. Johnny W. Lumpkin, 38, of Columbus, GA
Pfc. Ryan J. Grady, 25, of Bristow, OK
Capt David A. Wisniewski, 31, of Moville, IA
Spc. Louis R. Fastuca, 24, of West Chester, PA
Spc. Clayton D. McGarrah, 20, of Harrison, AR
Pfc. David Jefferson, 23, of Philadelphia, PA
Sgt. Jordan E. Tuttle , 22, of West Monroe, LA
Pfc. Edwin C. Wood, 18, of Omaha, Neb.
Staff Sgt. Christopher F. Cabacoy, 30, of Virginia Beach, VA
Sgt. Andrew J. Creighton, 23, of Laurel, DE
Pfc. Jacob A. Dennis, 22, of Powder Springs, GA
Spc. Keenan A. Cooper, 19, of Wahpeton, ND
Spc. Jerod H. Osborne, 20, of Royse City, TX
Staff Sgt. Marc A. Arizmendez, 30, of Anaheim, CA
Spc. Roger Lee, 26, of Monterey, CA
Pfc. Michael S. Pridham, 19, of Louisville, KY
Pfc. Anthony W. Simmons, 25, of Tallahassee, FL
Spc. Robert W. Crow, 42, of Kansas City, MO
Spc. Joseph W. Dimock II, 21, of Wildwood, IL
Sgt. Donald R. Edgerton, 33, of Murphy, NC
Staff Sgt. Jesse W. Ainsworth, 24, of Dayton, TX
Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Antonik, 29, of Crystal Lake, IL
Lance Cpl. Daniel G. Raney, 21, of Pleasant View, TN
Lance Cpl. Tyler A. Roads, 20, of Burney, CA
Spc. Carlos J. Negron, 40, of Fort Meyers, FL
Pfc. Nathaniel D. Garvin, 20, of Radcliff, KY
Sgt. Shaun M. Mittler, 32, of Austin, TX
Spc. Christopher J. Moon, 20, of Tucson, AZ
Pvt. Brandon M. King, 23, of Tallahassee, FL
1st Lt. Christopher S. Goeke, 23,of MN
Staff Sgt. Christopher T. Stout, 34, of Worthville, KY
Staff Sgt. Sheldon L. Tate, 27, of Hinesville, GA
Spc. Chase Stanley, 21, of Napa, CA
Spc. Jesse D. Reed, 26, of Orefield, PA
Spc. Matthew J. Johnson, 21, of Maplewood, MN
Sgt. Zachary M. Fisher, 24, of Ballwin, MO
Sgt. Matthew W. Weikert, 29, of Jacksonville, IL
Sgt. 1st Class John H. Jarrell, 32, of Brunson, SC
Sgt. Leston M. Winters, 30, of Sour Lake, TX
Cpl. Dave M. Santos, 21, of Rota, Marianas Islands
Staff Sgt. Justus S. Bartelt, 27, of Polo, IL
Sgt. Justin B. Allen, 23, of Coal Grove, OH
Gunnery Sgt. Christopher L. Eastman, 28, of Moose Pass, AR
1st Lt. Robert N. Bennedsen, 25, of Vashon, WA
Sgt. Anibal Santiago, 37, of Belvidere, IL
Sgt. Jesse R. Tilton, 23, of Decatur, IL
Cpl. Paul J. Miller, 22, of Traverse City, MI
Staff Sgt. Brian F. Piercy, 27, of Clovis, CA
Cpl. Julio Vargas, 23, of Sylmar, CA
Cpl. Joe L. Wrightsman, 23, of Jonesboro, LA
Pfc. James J. Oquin, 20, of El Paso, TX
Lt. Col. Mario D. Carazo, 41, of Springfield, OH
Maj. James M. Weis, 37, of Toms River, NJ
Staff Sgt. Conrad A. Mora, 24, of San Diego, CA
Sgt. Daniel Lim, 23, of Cypress, CA
Spc. Joseph A. Bauer, 27, of Cincinnati, OH
Pfc. Andrew L. Hand, 25, of Enterprise, AL
Lance Cpl. Frederik E. Vazquez, 20, of Melrose Park, IL
Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin McNeley, 30, of Wheatridge, CO
Petty Officer 3rd Class Jarod Newlove, 25, of Renton, WA
Lance Cpl. Abram L. Howard, 21, of Williamsport, PA
Lance Cpl. Shane R. Martin, 23, of Spring, TX
Capt. Jason E. Holbrook, 28, of Burnet, TX
Staff Sgt. Kyle R. Warren, 28, of Manchester, NH
Spc. Michael L. Stansbery, 21, of Mount Juliet, TN
Sgt. Kyle B. Stout, 25, of Texarkana, TX
Master Sgt. Jared N. Van Aalst, 34, of Laconia, NH
Cpl. Max W. Donahue, 23, of Highlands Ranch, CO
Spc. Faith R. Hinkley, 23, of Colorado Springs, CO
Sgt. Andrew C. Nicol, 23, of Eaton, MI
Pfc. Bradley D. Rappuhn, 24, of Grand Ledge, MI
Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Cornelius, 20, of Ashtabula, OH
Pfc. Vincent E. Gammone III, 19, of Christiana, TN
Pfc. Paul O. Cuzzupe, 23, of Plant City, FL
Pfc. John E. Andrade, 19, of San Antonio, TX
Sgt. Jose L. Saenz III, 30, of Pleasanton, TX
Sgt. Christopher N. Karch, 23, of Indianapolis, IN
Cpl. Kristopher D. Greer, 25, of Ashland City, TN
Staff Sgt. Michael A. Bock, 26, of Leesburg, FL
Spc. Jamal M. Rhett, 24, of Palmyra, NJ
Staff Sgt. Derek J. Farley, 24, of Nassau, NY
Pfc. Benjamen G. Chisholm, 24, of Fort Worth, TX
Pvt. Charles M. High, IV, 21, of Albuquerque, NM
Lance Cpl. Kevin E. Oratowski, 23, of Wheaton, IL
Sgt. 1st Class Edgar N. Roberts, 39, of Hinesville, GA
Sgt. Martin A. Lugo, 24, of Tucson, AZ
Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Collin Thomas, 33, of Morehead, KY
Cpl. Christopher J. Boyd, 22, of Palatine, IL
Lance Cpl. Cody S. Childers, 19, of Chesapeake, VA
Spc. Christopher S. Wright, 23, of Tollesboro, KY
Lance Cpl. Nathaniel J. A. Schultz, 19, of Safety Harbor, FL
Pfc. Alexis V. Maldonado, 20, of Wichita Falls, TX
Sgt. Brandon E. Maggart, 24, of Kirksville, MO
Sgt. Jason D. Calo, 23, of Lexington, KY
Spc. Pedro A. Millet Meletiche, 20, of Elizabeth, NJ
Sgt. Steven J. Deluzio, 25, of South Glastonbury, CT
Spc. Tristan H. Southworth, 21, of West Danville, VT
Sgt. Ronald A. Rodriguez, 26, of Falls Church, VA
Lance Cpl. Robert J. Newton, 21, of Creve Coeur, IL
Pfc. Justin B. Shoecraft, 28, of Elkhart, IN
Petty Officer 3rd Class James M. Swink, 20, of Yucca Valley, CA
Master Sgt. Daniel L. Fedder, 34, of Pine City, MN
Staff Sgt. James R. Ide, 32, of Festus, MO
Spc. James C. Robinson, 27, of Lebanon, OH
Pfc. Chad D. Coleman, 20, of Moreland, GA
Pvt. Adam J. Novak, 20, of Prairie du Sac, WI
Capt. Ellery R. Wallace, 33, of UT
Pfc. Bryn T. Raver, 20, of Harrison, AR
Gunnery Sgt. Floyd E. C. Holley, 36, of Casselberry, FL
Sgt. Patrick K. Durham, 24, of Chattanooga, TN
Spc. Andrew J. Castro, 20, of Westlake Village, CA
Sgt. Joseph A. Bovia, 24, of Kenner, LA
Lance Cpl. Cody A. Roberts, 22, of Boise, ID
Lance Cpl. Christopher B. Rodgers, 20, of Griffin, GA
2nd Lt. Mark A. Noziska, 24, of Papillon, NE
Staff Sgt. Casey J. Grochowiak, 34, of Lompoc, CA
Lance Cpl. Joshua T. Twigg, 21, of Indiana, PA
Staff Sgt. Vinson B. Adkinson III, 26, of Harper, KS
Sgt. Raymond C. Alcaraz, 20, of Redlands, CA
Pfc. Matthew E. George, 22, of Gransboro, NC
Pfc. James A. Page, 23, of Titusville, FL
Pfc. Diego M. Montoya, 20, of San Antonio, TX
Capt. Jason T. McMahon, 35, of Mulvane, KS
Lance Cpl. Ross S. Carver, 21, of Rocky Point, NC
Cpl. Philip G. E. Charte, 22, of Goffstown, NH
Sgt. Jesse M. Balthaser, 23, of Columbus, OH
Sgt. Philip C. Jenkins, 26, of Decatur, IN
Pvt. James F. McClamrock, 22, of Huntersville, NC
Cpl. John C. Bishop, 25, of Columbus, IN
1st Lt. Todd W. Weaver, 26, of Hampton, VA
Sgt. Ryan J. Hopkins, 21, of Livermore, Calif
Senior Airman James A. Hansen, 25, of Athens, MI
Sgt. John F. Burner III, 32, of Baltimore, MD
Sgt. Aaron K. Kramer, 22, of Salt Lake City, UT
Senior Airman Daniel R. Sanchez, 23, of El Paso, TX
Spc. Deangelo B. Snow, 22, of Saginaw, MI
1st Lt. Scott J. Fleming, 24, of Marietta, GA
1st Lt. Staff Sgt. Jaime C. Newman, 27, of Richmond, VA
1st Lt. Eric Yates, 26, of Rineyville, KY
Sgt. 1st Class Ronald A. Grider, 30, Brighton, IL
Spc. Timothy L. Johnson, 24, of Randolph, NY
Pfc. Barbara Vieyra, 22, of Mesa, AZ
Maj. Paul D. Carron, 33, of MO
Spc. Joshua A. Harton, 23, of Bethlehem, PA
Pfc. Joshua S. Ose, 19, of Hernando, MS
Senior Airman Michael J. Buras, 23, of Fitzgerald, GA
Lt. (SEAL) Brendan J. Looney, 29, of Owings, MD
Senior Chief Petty Officer David B. McLendon, 30, of Thomasville, GA
Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Adam O. Smith, 26, of Hurland, MO
Petty Officer 3rd Class (SEAL) Denis C. Miranda, 24, of Toms River, NJ
Maj. Robert F. Baldwin, 39, of Muscatine, IA
Chief Warrant Officer Matthew G. Wagstaff, 34, of Orem, UT
Chief Warrant Officer Jonah D. McClellan, 26, of St. Louis Park, MN
Staff Sgt. Joshua D. Powell, 25, of Pleasant Plains, IL
Sgt. Marvin R. Calhoun Jr., 23, of Elkhart, IN
Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Rosa, 20, of Swanton, VT
Pfc. Clinton E. Springer II, 21, of Sanford, ME
Spc. John Carrillo Jr., 20, of Stockton, CA
Pfc. Gebrah P. Noonan, 26, of Watertown, CT
Spc. Marc C. Whisenant, 23, of Holly Hill, FL
Pfc. William B. Dawson, 20, of Tunica, MS
Pfc. Jaysine P. S. Petree, 19, of Yigo, Guam.
Sgt. Mark A. Simpson, 40, of Peoria, IL
Spc. Donald S. Morrison, 23, of Cincinnati, OH
Lance Cpl. Ralph J. Fabbri, 20, of Gallitzin, PA
Senior Airman Mark Forester, 29, of Tuscaloosa, AL
Lance Cpl. Timothy M. Jackson, 22, of Corbin, KY
Sgt. Justin A. Officer, 26, of Wichita, KS
Sgt. 1st Class Calvin B. Harrison, 31, of San Antonio, TX
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Everything Is Beautiful
Here is a short story about how a song connected with so many people in so many ways. I will try to add the song & video at the bottom of this post so you can listen and get a sense of what was shared in our forum.
At the mortuary, there is a resiliency program that nurtures one and all, so that a healthy mind, body & spirit can thrive in an environment that otherwise depletes and shreds your being. One such element in the resiliency program is called "Pizza & Conversation." This forum is designed to bring people together during the lunch hour to listen to a song lyric, a poem, or some kind of thought provoking submission. Questions are thrown out by the chaplain to elicit feedback and the result ends up being a very enlightening conversation between participants.
I submitted a song that I have been listening to for months, which ultimately spoke to me in many ways and on many levels. I thought, perhaps, it would speak to others too, so I passed it along for consideration. The chaplain listened to the piece and read its origin and background. He and I discussed the nature of the song and he felt it would not bring about much in the way of productive conversation. It was deemed as a song, which was easily interpreted and therefore not necessarily one that would generate a variety of themes to discuss. However, he would still use it, just that we would have to plan for a short lived session.
Last Wednesday, we held our weekly session and the song was played aloud for all to hear. The lyric sheet was provided for folks to follow along. When the song ended, some questions & thought provoking joggers were tossed out. Comments started to volley as the chaplain threw the curve-ball, which was out of the norm. In addition to the lyric sheet, he handed out the story behind the song. We all began to put the full picture together, but then had to cut the session short for a mission that was due in any moment. The remaining time was handed over to another chaplain, who could remain behind to facilitate.
Fast forward one week.
Today, we held "Pizza & Conversation" again. It ended up being a follow-up to last weeks session. We did have another song and lyric to play, but prior to doing so, the chaplain that typically leads, asked how the balance of the session from the week prior went. There weren't many comments, so the chaplain asked if he could share a story that surfaced out of last weeks forum. He began by telling all of us that one member of the group had to get up and leave last week, because he was overwhelmed with emotion brought on by the song. We were all fairly surprised by this, because no one really noticed. The story was then handed over to the individual, who had to depart the room. He was moved to share what he experienced from listening to this song and learning the background behind it.
Now is where I explain the song and background:
Since I am having trouble attaching the video, you can go to this link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9yS-WbAuKo
The song was requested by a young man named Tyler, who was suffering from brain cancer. He wanted the song to speak to his mother after he left this earth, so she would know that everything was okay and he was in a better place.
To continue with my story, the young man who left the room had lost an uncle to cancer just months prior. So this song really helped him discover and find closure with the feelings he was dealing and coping with. SURPRISINGLY, as the conversation continued several other folks in the room stood up and shared very similar stories all dealing with the recent loss of a loved one to cancer. All the stories were moving and tenderhearted, but what they did more than anything else was connect us all together in the room. That, above all, was empowering and inspiring, because at the onset of this session, I'm sure that each person felt somewhat alone and isolated in their world of pain. But, once the doors began to open and people felt moved to share and relate, there was an overwhelming sense of support and care for one another.
What we see and do as members of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operation is for the most part unknown to much of the outside world. We each deal with all of it on our own and in our own way. However, knowing that we are not alone in our coping and processing brings us together like family. We grow significantly together and take care of one another to ensure that everyone survives the unfortunate and grave tasks that we are called to perform in the name of Dignity, Honor & Respect for our fallen.
All in all, this underestimated song & lyric proved to be quite instrumental in sharing, coping, and healing some very difficult issues among our team. I'm glad I listened carefully to that still, small voice inside of me that nudged me to submit it. God works in very mysterious ways. To witness and to see the testimony, the tears, the connections and the fellowship that grew from that song, just reinforces how God moves in our midst with a purpose to achieve His will.
At the mortuary, there is a resiliency program that nurtures one and all, so that a healthy mind, body & spirit can thrive in an environment that otherwise depletes and shreds your being. One such element in the resiliency program is called "Pizza & Conversation." This forum is designed to bring people together during the lunch hour to listen to a song lyric, a poem, or some kind of thought provoking submission. Questions are thrown out by the chaplain to elicit feedback and the result ends up being a very enlightening conversation between participants.
I submitted a song that I have been listening to for months, which ultimately spoke to me in many ways and on many levels. I thought, perhaps, it would speak to others too, so I passed it along for consideration. The chaplain listened to the piece and read its origin and background. He and I discussed the nature of the song and he felt it would not bring about much in the way of productive conversation. It was deemed as a song, which was easily interpreted and therefore not necessarily one that would generate a variety of themes to discuss. However, he would still use it, just that we would have to plan for a short lived session.
Last Wednesday, we held our weekly session and the song was played aloud for all to hear. The lyric sheet was provided for folks to follow along. When the song ended, some questions & thought provoking joggers were tossed out. Comments started to volley as the chaplain threw the curve-ball, which was out of the norm. In addition to the lyric sheet, he handed out the story behind the song. We all began to put the full picture together, but then had to cut the session short for a mission that was due in any moment. The remaining time was handed over to another chaplain, who could remain behind to facilitate.
Fast forward one week.
Today, we held "Pizza & Conversation" again. It ended up being a follow-up to last weeks session. We did have another song and lyric to play, but prior to doing so, the chaplain that typically leads, asked how the balance of the session from the week prior went. There weren't many comments, so the chaplain asked if he could share a story that surfaced out of last weeks forum. He began by telling all of us that one member of the group had to get up and leave last week, because he was overwhelmed with emotion brought on by the song. We were all fairly surprised by this, because no one really noticed. The story was then handed over to the individual, who had to depart the room. He was moved to share what he experienced from listening to this song and learning the background behind it.
Now is where I explain the song and background:
Since I am having trouble attaching the video, you can go to this link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9yS-WbAuKo
The song was requested by a young man named Tyler, who was suffering from brain cancer. He wanted the song to speak to his mother after he left this earth, so she would know that everything was okay and he was in a better place.
To continue with my story, the young man who left the room had lost an uncle to cancer just months prior. So this song really helped him discover and find closure with the feelings he was dealing and coping with. SURPRISINGLY, as the conversation continued several other folks in the room stood up and shared very similar stories all dealing with the recent loss of a loved one to cancer. All the stories were moving and tenderhearted, but what they did more than anything else was connect us all together in the room. That, above all, was empowering and inspiring, because at the onset of this session, I'm sure that each person felt somewhat alone and isolated in their world of pain. But, once the doors began to open and people felt moved to share and relate, there was an overwhelming sense of support and care for one another.
What we see and do as members of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operation is for the most part unknown to much of the outside world. We each deal with all of it on our own and in our own way. However, knowing that we are not alone in our coping and processing brings us together like family. We grow significantly together and take care of one another to ensure that everyone survives the unfortunate and grave tasks that we are called to perform in the name of Dignity, Honor & Respect for our fallen.
All in all, this underestimated song & lyric proved to be quite instrumental in sharing, coping, and healing some very difficult issues among our team. I'm glad I listened carefully to that still, small voice inside of me that nudged me to submit it. God works in very mysterious ways. To witness and to see the testimony, the tears, the connections and the fellowship that grew from that song, just reinforces how God moves in our midst with a purpose to achieve His will.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
A Different Perspective
My apologies for the blank post from yesterday. You see, I started out with the title and hit the return key by mistake. It posted only the Title. After realizing this, I began again, spending about an hour and a half typing a story of my experience and just as I was about to post, I saved everything as "draft" when a message popped up saying that the webpage was not found. Turns out, I lost the internet connection sometime during my typing and had no idea. Internet service here is very unreliable.
I will try to recount all that I wrote yesterday, so as not to lose the memory. No doubt the words will be different, but hopefully they will convey the experience accurately.
We received the fallen, who were reported lost just 36 hours prior on the Today Show. The report originally told of a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, that claimed the lives of 9 Americans. After details began rolling in, we learned that they were members from the US Army, US Navy Seals. A fallen US Marine joined the repatriation journey on the final leg from Ramstein, Germany to the U.S. mainland. So, we were preparing for 10 fallen all together.
It would take our entire chaplain staff, along with other support personnel, to adequately manage what was the largest contingent of family & friends we ever received. All total, we were expecting 103 family and friends to attend the Dignified Transfers for this mission. Taskings were divided up and I was charged with attending to the 5 Navy Seal members aboard the aircraft, who were escorts for the 4 fallen Seals. This would be an all together new role for me, as the escorts were going to remain on the plane for the entire ceremony, as opposed to what normally takes place. Typically, I go out and assist the escorts with disembarking and then take them to a select location to meet with liaisons, or family members. This time, however, due to the elite nature of the Navy Seals, the plan was that they would remain aboard the aircraft to assist and witness the transfer of their comrades. I would be there to tend to them and help answer any questions they might have about the mission at Dover AFB and what to expect after the ceremony was ended.
All the support personnel gathered and staged for the arrival of the C-17. Upon arrival, I headed out to the aircraft with the advance team. I boarded and met the escorts and briefed them on all that would be taking place. Meanwhile the advance team stormed the cargo bay and began the preparations. On other occasions, when dealing with the escorts, I saw bits & pieces of what the advance team did, but this time I was there to witness the process in its entirety. They began with a check of each transfer case to confirm the fallen member within matched up with their manifest. Next, they removed the American flags that covered each case and replaced each one with a fresh, crisp new flag. Meticulous care was given to each and every flag as it was unfolded and fitted to the sides and corners of the cases. Carefully, the creases were removed as the flags were stretched and tucked along the the edges. Each was inspected for errant threads and fray, then finished off with a lint roller to complete perfection. I was amazed by the dedication and respect shown by each and every member working to ensure that all honor, dignity and respect was given these heroes.
Next, it was time to move each transfer case into position, so they would be accurately placed for the Dignified Transfer ceremony. The fallen are placed in order of service component and rank to ensure proper military honors. The advance team lined up on either side of the first case and I heard a voice call out, "Stand By!" I watched to see the next step in this process. As the team knelt down to pick up the case, all on board snapped to the position of attention. The case was raised and the cargo bay fell completely silent. All that could be heard was the sound of the commands given by the team bearing the fallen hero to his place at the rear of the aircraft. Each time a case was lifted, all of us assumed the position of attention. Once the case was lowered and ceased moving, the command of "Fall Out!" was given and we could relax. All eyes, however, were on the carry team as they paced back and forth, from front to rear with each transfer case. The first movement would involve 6 of the fallen. US Army soldiers, who perished in the helicopter crash and the one US Marine, who joined them part of the way home. The fallen Navy Seals would be transferred in the second movement due to the level of media chosen by the next of kin and also due to the large contingent of family and friends, who planned to attend.
After the first movement was complete and all the dignitaries and family left the area, we began to prepare for the second movement. The Navy Seal escorts would be moving their comrades into place, rather than the advance team. They took their positions on either side of each case and followed suit with what they witnessed in the earlier preparation process. One member called out, "Stand By!" and we all responded as before, until every fallen member was in place.
During the wait time that followed, I witnessed one of the escorts standing beside one of his fallen comrades. Quietly, he just stood there lost in a stare. I could have walked over to him and engaged him to make sure he was coping okay, but instead I just took it all in. I figured he was just saying goodbye to a friend, or perhaps he was praying in some way. It was a moment that need not be disturbed, I thought. God kinda held me back as if to say, "Let it be."
The second Dignified Transfer commenced and audible sobs could be heard outside the aircraft where about 80+ family and friends were gathered. It was extremely moving to see things from this perspective. All along, I have been on the flightline with the families, but today I had a chance to stand with my uniformed brothers in arms to render honor and respect to their closest friends.
This morning, CNN reported that 10 fallen American service members were received at Dover AFB. Then, one by one, their photos were shown on the TV screen. I stopped to make sure I remembered their faces, because in just a few minutes, I would be seeing them again in the mortuary and escorting them through the process of getting ready for their final journey home.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (80)
I will try to recount all that I wrote yesterday, so as not to lose the memory. No doubt the words will be different, but hopefully they will convey the experience accurately.
We received the fallen, who were reported lost just 36 hours prior on the Today Show. The report originally told of a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, that claimed the lives of 9 Americans. After details began rolling in, we learned that they were members from the US Army, US Navy Seals. A fallen US Marine joined the repatriation journey on the final leg from Ramstein, Germany to the U.S. mainland. So, we were preparing for 10 fallen all together.
It would take our entire chaplain staff, along with other support personnel, to adequately manage what was the largest contingent of family & friends we ever received. All total, we were expecting 103 family and friends to attend the Dignified Transfers for this mission. Taskings were divided up and I was charged with attending to the 5 Navy Seal members aboard the aircraft, who were escorts for the 4 fallen Seals. This would be an all together new role for me, as the escorts were going to remain on the plane for the entire ceremony, as opposed to what normally takes place. Typically, I go out and assist the escorts with disembarking and then take them to a select location to meet with liaisons, or family members. This time, however, due to the elite nature of the Navy Seals, the plan was that they would remain aboard the aircraft to assist and witness the transfer of their comrades. I would be there to tend to them and help answer any questions they might have about the mission at Dover AFB and what to expect after the ceremony was ended.
All the support personnel gathered and staged for the arrival of the C-17. Upon arrival, I headed out to the aircraft with the advance team. I boarded and met the escorts and briefed them on all that would be taking place. Meanwhile the advance team stormed the cargo bay and began the preparations. On other occasions, when dealing with the escorts, I saw bits & pieces of what the advance team did, but this time I was there to witness the process in its entirety. They began with a check of each transfer case to confirm the fallen member within matched up with their manifest. Next, they removed the American flags that covered each case and replaced each one with a fresh, crisp new flag. Meticulous care was given to each and every flag as it was unfolded and fitted to the sides and corners of the cases. Carefully, the creases were removed as the flags were stretched and tucked along the the edges. Each was inspected for errant threads and fray, then finished off with a lint roller to complete perfection. I was amazed by the dedication and respect shown by each and every member working to ensure that all honor, dignity and respect was given these heroes.
Next, it was time to move each transfer case into position, so they would be accurately placed for the Dignified Transfer ceremony. The fallen are placed in order of service component and rank to ensure proper military honors. The advance team lined up on either side of the first case and I heard a voice call out, "Stand By!" I watched to see the next step in this process. As the team knelt down to pick up the case, all on board snapped to the position of attention. The case was raised and the cargo bay fell completely silent. All that could be heard was the sound of the commands given by the team bearing the fallen hero to his place at the rear of the aircraft. Each time a case was lifted, all of us assumed the position of attention. Once the case was lowered and ceased moving, the command of "Fall Out!" was given and we could relax. All eyes, however, were on the carry team as they paced back and forth, from front to rear with each transfer case. The first movement would involve 6 of the fallen. US Army soldiers, who perished in the helicopter crash and the one US Marine, who joined them part of the way home. The fallen Navy Seals would be transferred in the second movement due to the level of media chosen by the next of kin and also due to the large contingent of family and friends, who planned to attend.
After the first movement was complete and all the dignitaries and family left the area, we began to prepare for the second movement. The Navy Seal escorts would be moving their comrades into place, rather than the advance team. They took their positions on either side of each case and followed suit with what they witnessed in the earlier preparation process. One member called out, "Stand By!" and we all responded as before, until every fallen member was in place.
During the wait time that followed, I witnessed one of the escorts standing beside one of his fallen comrades. Quietly, he just stood there lost in a stare. I could have walked over to him and engaged him to make sure he was coping okay, but instead I just took it all in. I figured he was just saying goodbye to a friend, or perhaps he was praying in some way. It was a moment that need not be disturbed, I thought. God kinda held me back as if to say, "Let it be."
The second Dignified Transfer commenced and audible sobs could be heard outside the aircraft where about 80+ family and friends were gathered. It was extremely moving to see things from this perspective. All along, I have been on the flightline with the families, but today I had a chance to stand with my uniformed brothers in arms to render honor and respect to their closest friends.
This morning, CNN reported that 10 fallen American service members were received at Dover AFB. Then, one by one, their photos were shown on the TV screen. I stopped to make sure I remembered their faces, because in just a few minutes, I would be seeing them again in the mortuary and escorting them through the process of getting ready for their final journey home.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (80)
Monday, September 13, 2010
The words I would say.....
"I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the alter of freedom." -Abraham Lincoln.
I heard this quote after catching the last few moments of the movie, "Saving Private Ryan." It really hit me and I thought how timeless this passage is, dating back to 1864. These words were written during the civil war to Mrs. Bixby, who lost 5 sons. They are as relevant today as they were back in those times. I like it as simply a prayerful message that sums up how we can call upon God to act in the lives of these families of our fallen warriors.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (65)
I heard this quote after catching the last few moments of the movie, "Saving Private Ryan." It really hit me and I thought how timeless this passage is, dating back to 1864. These words were written during the civil war to Mrs. Bixby, who lost 5 sons. They are as relevant today as they were back in those times. I like it as simply a prayerful message that sums up how we can call upon God to act in the lives of these families of our fallen warriors.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (65)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Calling on God
This evening we rendered honors and welcomed home 11 more fallen servicemembers. The Dignified Transfers were witnessed by over 15 distinguished visitors from Washington DC, to include the Deputy Secretary of Defense. We had secret service security all over the place to ensure a secure environment was managed for all the general officers, senators and representatives from congress. Each passed through the Center for the Families of the Fallen to pay their respects and offer their condolences. Afterwards, they walked out on the flightline to witness each and every Dignified Transfer. I believe it was a sobering and necessary experience for all of them, so as to keep them mindful of the real world aside from politics and bureaucracy that they are so often tangled in.
I mingled and spoke with many of the family members that were here to meet their fallen loved one. The dynamics that exist among these grief stricken people are just indescribable. Some are centered and able to cope within the moment. Some are silent and lost in their own world of sorrow and grief. Some are in awe of the the circumstances they are in and are at peace with a sense of calmness about them. Others, a very select few, are inconsolable and crashing in hurt, anger and disbelief. All this can be experienced in just one family or in a group of families attending (1) Dignified Transfer. Those of us working with them have to be able to key in and tune ourselves to each individual and find a way to help them work through what they are about to witness. This extremely impactful life event, that will change their lives forever, is where we are placed to share in their profound sorrow and try to offer care, compassion and peace.
One such gentleman that I met tonight, was there to see his son come home. He was as "cowboy" as I have ever seen a man be. Hat, boots, vest, jeans, belt buckle and all. However, he was in a state of grief that led me to believe he was close to a nervous breakdown. He could hardly catch his breath. The stress and anger oozed from his lips and I just knew he was going to have extreme difficulties watching the Dignified Transfer. The chaplain and I spoke to him early on and settled him for a time. He seemed to calm down and gather himself while other families were preparing to go out and witness their hero be transferred to American soil.
I went out with the first movement, which consisted of 7 fallen. Emotions were high, which is predictable and normal for each Dignified Transfer. All the family members cried and held each other as the transfer cases were positioned, then moved one by one from the aircraft to the mortuary transition vehicle. What is interesting is that people will sob and cry, ask for God's strength, and then peace will shelter them after their loved one is moved. They also watch each of us as we render honors and salute during each transfer. I think they get lost in the respect and honor shown to their loved one and it moves them in such a way that it calms their spirit. I've seen this time after time and it is comforting in a way.
The second movement included the father, who hailed from Oklahoma, and as I mentioned was all cowboy. When we arrived at our position on the flightline I exited the surrey bus and was followed by this man. He walked toward the end of the roped area and my fears were realized. He rounded the corner and headed for the K-Loader, which held the transfer cases of the fallen set to be carried and transferred in this movement. I quickly intervened in his path and held him, blocking him from walking any further. He pressed an pushed into me, uttering how he wanted to see his boy. I kept calm and kindly asked him to remain behind the rope line for his safety and the safety of all on the flightline. My biggest worry was that the secret service agents would spring into action and intervene to protect the dignitaries participating in the movement. But, I was able to keep him from going any further and coerced him to stand with me as we honored his son. He groaned and growled (literally) as he tried to catch his breath. I believe, he was bound and determined to make it past me and the others who eventually surrounded him, so he could intercept his son's transfer case. He asked which case his son was in and I softly and quietly told him where his son was located. He stared and focused on that case with every fiber of his being. He continued to push against me looking side to side, as if seeking a detour around our human barricade. As the Dignified Transfer commenced, he broke a few times into tears and sobbed in between determined growls. I sat beside him, on one knee and silently prayed, calling on God to work and move in this moment and settle this restless, grief stricken soul. I asked for God's strength to help me, should I have to restrain this gentleman, but above all I trusted God to work through me to bring peace and calm to this situation. I calmly whispered the word "peace" as I held the man's hand. He gripped me with the force of a vice and I returned with a grip of my own equal to his. At times, he took deep breaths and sighed, between growls and grunts and I knew that my prayer was in the process of being granted. Silence fell over him as the carry team was about to move his son. I let go of his hand and snapped to the position of attention. He rose beside me and again tried to push past the corner post, heading in the direction of his son. I thwarted his attempt by leaning into him and grabbing his hand again. I was holding his right hand with my left as I saluted when the command was given. Then, the man took his hand from mine and began to salute beside me. I remember saying to him, "That's it, sir," "you're doing good," "hang in there with me." He was quiet and patient for a time. As the other cases were being transferred, he continued to salute with me for each one, 3 all together. Once all the cases were within the waiting vehicles, the attendants began to ceremoniously close the rear doors. The man broke yet again, calling out to his son and wanting to go to him. I calmly held him and told him "let us take care of your son now," and we would return him home safely. That was what he needed to hear. From that moment, he said, "I'm good now." "I'm glad he's home." The chaplain and I walked him over to be among the other families at the rear of the surrey bus and watched the transfer vehicles depart the area. The man knelt down and cried some more. I kept my hand on his shoulder and just sat with him. My last words to him were, "God's peace be with you now."
Quite an emotional and stressful evening, but all along, I just kept thinking God is in control here and I'm just one of his instruments to guide and assist as led. Glory be to Him.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (57)
I mingled and spoke with many of the family members that were here to meet their fallen loved one. The dynamics that exist among these grief stricken people are just indescribable. Some are centered and able to cope within the moment. Some are silent and lost in their own world of sorrow and grief. Some are in awe of the the circumstances they are in and are at peace with a sense of calmness about them. Others, a very select few, are inconsolable and crashing in hurt, anger and disbelief. All this can be experienced in just one family or in a group of families attending (1) Dignified Transfer. Those of us working with them have to be able to key in and tune ourselves to each individual and find a way to help them work through what they are about to witness. This extremely impactful life event, that will change their lives forever, is where we are placed to share in their profound sorrow and try to offer care, compassion and peace.
One such gentleman that I met tonight, was there to see his son come home. He was as "cowboy" as I have ever seen a man be. Hat, boots, vest, jeans, belt buckle and all. However, he was in a state of grief that led me to believe he was close to a nervous breakdown. He could hardly catch his breath. The stress and anger oozed from his lips and I just knew he was going to have extreme difficulties watching the Dignified Transfer. The chaplain and I spoke to him early on and settled him for a time. He seemed to calm down and gather himself while other families were preparing to go out and witness their hero be transferred to American soil.
I went out with the first movement, which consisted of 7 fallen. Emotions were high, which is predictable and normal for each Dignified Transfer. All the family members cried and held each other as the transfer cases were positioned, then moved one by one from the aircraft to the mortuary transition vehicle. What is interesting is that people will sob and cry, ask for God's strength, and then peace will shelter them after their loved one is moved. They also watch each of us as we render honors and salute during each transfer. I think they get lost in the respect and honor shown to their loved one and it moves them in such a way that it calms their spirit. I've seen this time after time and it is comforting in a way.
The second movement included the father, who hailed from Oklahoma, and as I mentioned was all cowboy. When we arrived at our position on the flightline I exited the surrey bus and was followed by this man. He walked toward the end of the roped area and my fears were realized. He rounded the corner and headed for the K-Loader, which held the transfer cases of the fallen set to be carried and transferred in this movement. I quickly intervened in his path and held him, blocking him from walking any further. He pressed an pushed into me, uttering how he wanted to see his boy. I kept calm and kindly asked him to remain behind the rope line for his safety and the safety of all on the flightline. My biggest worry was that the secret service agents would spring into action and intervene to protect the dignitaries participating in the movement. But, I was able to keep him from going any further and coerced him to stand with me as we honored his son. He groaned and growled (literally) as he tried to catch his breath. I believe, he was bound and determined to make it past me and the others who eventually surrounded him, so he could intercept his son's transfer case. He asked which case his son was in and I softly and quietly told him where his son was located. He stared and focused on that case with every fiber of his being. He continued to push against me looking side to side, as if seeking a detour around our human barricade. As the Dignified Transfer commenced, he broke a few times into tears and sobbed in between determined growls. I sat beside him, on one knee and silently prayed, calling on God to work and move in this moment and settle this restless, grief stricken soul. I asked for God's strength to help me, should I have to restrain this gentleman, but above all I trusted God to work through me to bring peace and calm to this situation. I calmly whispered the word "peace" as I held the man's hand. He gripped me with the force of a vice and I returned with a grip of my own equal to his. At times, he took deep breaths and sighed, between growls and grunts and I knew that my prayer was in the process of being granted. Silence fell over him as the carry team was about to move his son. I let go of his hand and snapped to the position of attention. He rose beside me and again tried to push past the corner post, heading in the direction of his son. I thwarted his attempt by leaning into him and grabbing his hand again. I was holding his right hand with my left as I saluted when the command was given. Then, the man took his hand from mine and began to salute beside me. I remember saying to him, "That's it, sir," "you're doing good," "hang in there with me." He was quiet and patient for a time. As the other cases were being transferred, he continued to salute with me for each one, 3 all together. Once all the cases were within the waiting vehicles, the attendants began to ceremoniously close the rear doors. The man broke yet again, calling out to his son and wanting to go to him. I calmly held him and told him "let us take care of your son now," and we would return him home safely. That was what he needed to hear. From that moment, he said, "I'm good now." "I'm glad he's home." The chaplain and I walked him over to be among the other families at the rear of the surrey bus and watched the transfer vehicles depart the area. The man knelt down and cried some more. I kept my hand on his shoulder and just sat with him. My last words to him were, "God's peace be with you now."
Quite an emotional and stressful evening, but all along, I just kept thinking God is in control here and I'm just one of his instruments to guide and assist as led. Glory be to Him.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (57)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
A Special Visit
Hello All,
My blog posts have been far and few between recently, but trust me, it is not due to lack of things to write about. I'm simply working on and addressing so many other issues, that I find little "quiet time" to sit and focus on writing. Tonight, however, I thought I would take a few minutes before retiring for the evening, to highlight an event that I deemed unique and noteworthy.
We had 3 separate flights arriving today, which resulted in a total of 5 Dignified Transfers. My partner covered the morning and early afternoon missions and I covered the evening mission. Of the two soldiers that were on the evening flight, one had his family in attendance for the Dignified Transfer. They arrived at the Center For The Families Of The Fallen and we greeted them and prepared them for the ceremony that was to take place. Interestingly enough, for no particular reason, we knew of a distinguished visitor that was on his way to offer condolences to this family also. The chaplain and I sat with the family and waited for the arrival of the Chairman Of The Joint Chiefs Of Staff for the Department Of Defense, Admiral Mike Mullin. He was enroute to another location, but called ahead to schedule a stop-over so he and his wife could offer condolences and participate in the Dignified Transfer of the soldiers on board the aircraft.
What really impressed me in all of this was the fact that these soldiers, both fallen heroes, were simply young men with little time in service. Sadly, it is all to often in my experience, that extremely high ranking officials get involved when something is "high profile" and "worthy" of a visit. So, this evening I have to say that I'm humbled to have witnessed this random act by such a senior ranking official. It meant alot to the family too, that the Admiral came over to meet them, speak privately to them and add a personal touch of how our nation respects, honors and greives their loss alongside them. I had a chance to shake the Admiral's hand and I sensed his humble presence in this moment.
I learned that the one soldier we were honoring, gave his life, while in the process of attempting to save another. He had been injured, but was trying to get a fellow soldier onto a helicopter during an attack, when he collapsed from the wounds he suffered. Sadly, both lost their lives and are her with us now at Dover. I will be present with the chaplain tomorrow when we care for their remains and prepare them for thier final trip home to their familes.
God's peace and prayers be with them and their familes in the coming days ahead.
Dignified Transfers Witnessed (49)
My blog posts have been far and few between recently, but trust me, it is not due to lack of things to write about. I'm simply working on and addressing so many other issues, that I find little "quiet time" to sit and focus on writing. Tonight, however, I thought I would take a few minutes before retiring for the evening, to highlight an event that I deemed unique and noteworthy.
We had 3 separate flights arriving today, which resulted in a total of 5 Dignified Transfers. My partner covered the morning and early afternoon missions and I covered the evening mission. Of the two soldiers that were on the evening flight, one had his family in attendance for the Dignified Transfer. They arrived at the Center For The Families Of The Fallen and we greeted them and prepared them for the ceremony that was to take place. Interestingly enough, for no particular reason, we knew of a distinguished visitor that was on his way to offer condolences to this family also. The chaplain and I sat with the family and waited for the arrival of the Chairman Of The Joint Chiefs Of Staff for the Department Of Defense, Admiral Mike Mullin. He was enroute to another location, but called ahead to schedule a stop-over so he and his wife could offer condolences and participate in the Dignified Transfer of the soldiers on board the aircraft.
What really impressed me in all of this was the fact that these soldiers, both fallen heroes, were simply young men with little time in service. Sadly, it is all to often in my experience, that extremely high ranking officials get involved when something is "high profile" and "worthy" of a visit. So, this evening I have to say that I'm humbled to have witnessed this random act by such a senior ranking official. It meant alot to the family too, that the Admiral came over to meet them, speak privately to them and add a personal touch of how our nation respects, honors and greives their loss alongside them. I had a chance to shake the Admiral's hand and I sensed his humble presence in this moment.
I learned that the one soldier we were honoring, gave his life, while in the process of attempting to save another. He had been injured, but was trying to get a fellow soldier onto a helicopter during an attack, when he collapsed from the wounds he suffered. Sadly, both lost their lives and are her with us now at Dover. I will be present with the chaplain tomorrow when we care for their remains and prepare them for thier final trip home to their familes.
God's peace and prayers be with them and their familes in the coming days ahead.
Dignified Transfers Witnessed (49)
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Holding on to HOPE
Good evening,
The last 24 hours has been overwhelming. I think I managed to get about 5 1/2 hours of sleep since Monday morning. I am pretty sure this is still Tuesday! It's very strange how the days all blend together when you are awake across all hours.
Last night (10pm) through this morning (2am) we welcomed home 6 servicemembers and cared for over 40 family members / friends in attendance. It is by far the largest Dignified Transfer that has come through this year. It took a full complement of personnel to see to every one's needs in the 4 hour period. I was tasked with escort duties and had two that I had to meet at the aircraft, before bringing them over to the Center For The Families Of The Fallen. I carried their ruck sacks and saw to it that they were briefed on what to say and do when they met the families. In the meantime, my partner was working at the center welcoming the families and making their short stay comfortable. When I arrived, I introduced the escorts to the Casualty Assistance Officer and joined my partner and the other support personnel. We continued through the late night and into the morning until the mission was complete. One fallen servicemember in particular was a young woman. Surviving her was her husband and a small child. As I understand, she was running toward a bunker during an attack and suffered a shrapnel wound that she could not survive. I assisted in the processing this morning and saw her pass through X-ray and CT Scan stations. I helped the technicians as they carefully and delicately adjusted for each picture and then I rolled her out to the forensic dentists. It was truly an honor to assist in such a moment, but also extremely humbling. I couldn't help but look up and thank God for the life this woman led here among us all.
This evening, just a few short hours ago, I assisted in another DT. We welcomed home a Marine, a dad. I sat with his son, a five year old little man, in the children's room and watched Thomas The Tank Engine with him. The little fella was captivated by Thomas. I gently spoke to mom, standing nearby, and got her to talk about their home and what her young son liked to do. The little guy started coloring and I just grabbed a coloring book and joined him. He drew a plane that looked like a school bus, but a plane nevertheless to a 5yr old. I laughed. I colored a snail in a coloring book and made it a point to ensure that the snail was very colorful and bright, rather than dull, gray and slimy. I swirled all sorts of colors while keeping the conversation light and interesting with mom. I noticed the little boy was clutching a red teddy bear with Semper Fi embroidered across the front. Obviously, this was symbolic in some way since his dad is a Marine. "Once a Marine, always a Marine," as the saying goes. So, I slowly got up and went into a small storage closet where I safely placed 50 "Hope" Teddy Bears that were donated by a very caring & compassionate organization. I took one for this little guy and presented it to him, so that his other teddy bear would have a friend to keep company with. He was very shy at first, but truly wanted that bear more than anything. He kept it with him the entire time we were together and held it tightly, especially when we were out on the flightline watching his dad and paying our respects. I knelt by him so he would have someone else on his level during this extremely sad moment in his life. Interesting observation I had on the ride back to the center, when I noticed the little boy's Grandmother, clutching "Hope" too. I pray that "Hope" keeps, not only the little red bear company, but this little guy too. I like to think that one day, when he is much older, he'll find this teddy bear "Hope" and remember the significance of it's presence in his life. If not, that's okay too. At least I had the priviledge to comfort him in a very confusing time in his life and offer a little "Hope" for the future. He also wanted to take my snail picture.....glad I stayed within the lines!
Dignified Transfers witnessed (45)
The last 24 hours has been overwhelming. I think I managed to get about 5 1/2 hours of sleep since Monday morning. I am pretty sure this is still Tuesday! It's very strange how the days all blend together when you are awake across all hours.
Last night (10pm) through this morning (2am) we welcomed home 6 servicemembers and cared for over 40 family members / friends in attendance. It is by far the largest Dignified Transfer that has come through this year. It took a full complement of personnel to see to every one's needs in the 4 hour period. I was tasked with escort duties and had two that I had to meet at the aircraft, before bringing them over to the Center For The Families Of The Fallen. I carried their ruck sacks and saw to it that they were briefed on what to say and do when they met the families. In the meantime, my partner was working at the center welcoming the families and making their short stay comfortable. When I arrived, I introduced the escorts to the Casualty Assistance Officer and joined my partner and the other support personnel. We continued through the late night and into the morning until the mission was complete. One fallen servicemember in particular was a young woman. Surviving her was her husband and a small child. As I understand, she was running toward a bunker during an attack and suffered a shrapnel wound that she could not survive. I assisted in the processing this morning and saw her pass through X-ray and CT Scan stations. I helped the technicians as they carefully and delicately adjusted for each picture and then I rolled her out to the forensic dentists. It was truly an honor to assist in such a moment, but also extremely humbling. I couldn't help but look up and thank God for the life this woman led here among us all.
This evening, just a few short hours ago, I assisted in another DT. We welcomed home a Marine, a dad. I sat with his son, a five year old little man, in the children's room and watched Thomas The Tank Engine with him. The little fella was captivated by Thomas. I gently spoke to mom, standing nearby, and got her to talk about their home and what her young son liked to do. The little guy started coloring and I just grabbed a coloring book and joined him. He drew a plane that looked like a school bus, but a plane nevertheless to a 5yr old. I laughed. I colored a snail in a coloring book and made it a point to ensure that the snail was very colorful and bright, rather than dull, gray and slimy. I swirled all sorts of colors while keeping the conversation light and interesting with mom. I noticed the little boy was clutching a red teddy bear with Semper Fi embroidered across the front. Obviously, this was symbolic in some way since his dad is a Marine. "Once a Marine, always a Marine," as the saying goes. So, I slowly got up and went into a small storage closet where I safely placed 50 "Hope" Teddy Bears that were donated by a very caring & compassionate organization. I took one for this little guy and presented it to him, so that his other teddy bear would have a friend to keep company with. He was very shy at first, but truly wanted that bear more than anything. He kept it with him the entire time we were together and held it tightly, especially when we were out on the flightline watching his dad and paying our respects. I knelt by him so he would have someone else on his level during this extremely sad moment in his life. Interesting observation I had on the ride back to the center, when I noticed the little boy's Grandmother, clutching "Hope" too. I pray that "Hope" keeps, not only the little red bear company, but this little guy too. I like to think that one day, when he is much older, he'll find this teddy bear "Hope" and remember the significance of it's presence in his life. If not, that's okay too. At least I had the priviledge to comfort him in a very confusing time in his life and offer a little "Hope" for the future. He also wanted to take my snail picture.....glad I stayed within the lines!
Dignified Transfers witnessed (45)
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Candy & Prayers
Good evening,
The last several days have given me ample experiences to write about, but I have been spending more time with my chaplain's and team members than sitting behind the computer keyboard. We've been building stronger bonds now that the most deadly month since the war began is past. Prayers are needed to ensure that we never see another month like July, where nearly 60 service members gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our lives, our liberties and our freedom.
This month started out quiet with roughly 3 full days and not one dignified transfer. Yesterday, however, we brought another hero home. He was a highly decorated soldier with 3 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars. His wife, attended the transfer with support from about 5 military members, who were more family than they were friends. I learned that she was expecting a child in a few months, which added much more to an already delicate moment in time. I also observed that one of the military friends, who just happened to be wearing civilian attire, had a prosthetic leg from the knee down. I found out that he lost his leg during a tour in Iraq and was a very close friend to the fallen soldier. He was here to pay his respects to his friend. What a intense, humbling experience to witness.
Through it all, I keep looking for and noticing God's small, subtle reminders that He is present and working all around this sacred place. We are all here to share the gifts that are in us. I have an amazing team of chaplains and support personnel all around me. Each one interdependent on the other for meaningful, uplifting support and guidance in this extremely difficult and psychologically challenging environment. Time here, working with one another, has drawn us together like family. Such that, we are now able to effectively watch out for one another and recognize when someone is having difficulty with things. We're tuned in.
I also have amazing friends & family at my church in Galena, Maryland. I reached out to some members of my church family at Olivet United Methodist Church, and by the grace of God they answered. I mentioned to a friend of mine, that the chaplain team I work with at Dover AFB, needed some extra candy to fill the basket that is the center piece of our office. By that I mean, what a "water cooler" is to a busy corporate office, this candy basket is to our chaplain office. She shared my story with the vacation bible school and within just a few short days, bags of candy were offered to help fill our basket!! Folks from throughout the mortuary will stop by to check out our basket and grab a piece of candy. It acts as a conduit for our impromptu ministry when we are in the office. Each time someone comes to our office for a morsel, we can chat them up and see how they are doing. It always results in a smile, but more often than not, it gets them talking and sharing their experiences with us and that opens a portal for us to help and remind them that we are there for them anytime day/night.
In addition to the candy I kindly asked a church member, who I knew was gifted as a woodworker, to fashion a prayer box for the mortuary, so that prayer requests could be collected and prayed over weekly. I gave the simplest guidelines for a simple box. I didn't want to impose, so any kind of box would be gratefully accepted. Well, today I attended service and met with my friend. He asked me to follow him to his car so I could pick up the box he crafted. When he opened his trunk, I was astonished at the gift before me. It was beautiful and beyond words! It was evident that he poured out his heart and soul into this simple box. But, what was evidently clear to me, was that my idea of simple was not his. He used the gift that God gave him to create a blessing for many. The prayer box is made of wood and is coated with clear polyurethane so the grain stands out in a very elegant way. It has a simple slot in the lid so that prayers can be dropped in and be carefully kept until they can be prayed over. The hinges and hasp are gold and complement the piece very nicely. The bottom, outside edges are finished with a unique moulding that adds character and class. I can't wait to present this to the chaplains for use in helping others submit prayers and concerns. What a blessing!
Many thanks to my church friends & family who serve a purpose greater than they'll ever know. Ministry and the prayers of many are made possible by your servant hood and giving spirits.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (38)
The last several days have given me ample experiences to write about, but I have been spending more time with my chaplain's and team members than sitting behind the computer keyboard. We've been building stronger bonds now that the most deadly month since the war began is past. Prayers are needed to ensure that we never see another month like July, where nearly 60 service members gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our lives, our liberties and our freedom.
This month started out quiet with roughly 3 full days and not one dignified transfer. Yesterday, however, we brought another hero home. He was a highly decorated soldier with 3 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars. His wife, attended the transfer with support from about 5 military members, who were more family than they were friends. I learned that she was expecting a child in a few months, which added much more to an already delicate moment in time. I also observed that one of the military friends, who just happened to be wearing civilian attire, had a prosthetic leg from the knee down. I found out that he lost his leg during a tour in Iraq and was a very close friend to the fallen soldier. He was here to pay his respects to his friend. What a intense, humbling experience to witness.
Through it all, I keep looking for and noticing God's small, subtle reminders that He is present and working all around this sacred place. We are all here to share the gifts that are in us. I have an amazing team of chaplains and support personnel all around me. Each one interdependent on the other for meaningful, uplifting support and guidance in this extremely difficult and psychologically challenging environment. Time here, working with one another, has drawn us together like family. Such that, we are now able to effectively watch out for one another and recognize when someone is having difficulty with things. We're tuned in.
I also have amazing friends & family at my church in Galena, Maryland. I reached out to some members of my church family at Olivet United Methodist Church, and by the grace of God they answered. I mentioned to a friend of mine, that the chaplain team I work with at Dover AFB, needed some extra candy to fill the basket that is the center piece of our office. By that I mean, what a "water cooler" is to a busy corporate office, this candy basket is to our chaplain office. She shared my story with the vacation bible school and within just a few short days, bags of candy were offered to help fill our basket!! Folks from throughout the mortuary will stop by to check out our basket and grab a piece of candy. It acts as a conduit for our impromptu ministry when we are in the office. Each time someone comes to our office for a morsel, we can chat them up and see how they are doing. It always results in a smile, but more often than not, it gets them talking and sharing their experiences with us and that opens a portal for us to help and remind them that we are there for them anytime day/night.
In addition to the candy I kindly asked a church member, who I knew was gifted as a woodworker, to fashion a prayer box for the mortuary, so that prayer requests could be collected and prayed over weekly. I gave the simplest guidelines for a simple box. I didn't want to impose, so any kind of box would be gratefully accepted. Well, today I attended service and met with my friend. He asked me to follow him to his car so I could pick up the box he crafted. When he opened his trunk, I was astonished at the gift before me. It was beautiful and beyond words! It was evident that he poured out his heart and soul into this simple box. But, what was evidently clear to me, was that my idea of simple was not his. He used the gift that God gave him to create a blessing for many. The prayer box is made of wood and is coated with clear polyurethane so the grain stands out in a very elegant way. It has a simple slot in the lid so that prayers can be dropped in and be carefully kept until they can be prayed over. The hinges and hasp are gold and complement the piece very nicely. The bottom, outside edges are finished with a unique moulding that adds character and class. I can't wait to present this to the chaplains for use in helping others submit prayers and concerns. What a blessing!
Many thanks to my church friends & family who serve a purpose greater than they'll ever know. Ministry and the prayers of many are made possible by your servant hood and giving spirits.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (38)
Friday, July 30, 2010
"Dover"
I met the artist who wrote this song today. His name is John Flynn and he's a folk singer / songwriter from Wilmington, Delaware. He sang this song for us all today in the atrium at the mortuary affairs center during a retirement ceremony. It was so moving that I had to ask him where I could find his work, particularly this song. He told me that it was on You Tube and that I could find it there. There are a few renditions, however, this one in particular came with a video, albeit outdated since our uniforms have changed, but I thought it accompanied the song very well.
Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7X2iJ9usjw
We worked very long and hard today caring and supporting more than 30 family members as we welcomed their fallen heroes home. A total of 6 arrived today and more are on their way home tomorrow.
I had the honor to meet and tend to a military escort tonight, who was escorting two fallen soldiers. I asked him how he was selected for this duty and he told me that he escorts all of his soldiers home if he can. He then told me this was one of many trips he's taken to make sure his fallen men arrive home to their families.
I'm struck by sobering moments like that each day as I continue this delicate, life altering work.
Dignified Transfers Witnessed (36)
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Spellcheck & Sleep Deprivation
Good evening,
Tonight is short and sweet. I spent most of today laughing at myself after re-reading what I wrote last night. The outcome was quite sloppy and for the most part lacked coherent thought. That's what you get, I suppose, for trying to convey a touching and meaningful experience when you are lethargic and half asleep! ;o) My apologies for the hyroglifics and third grade writing skills.
My hope is that you were able to gain some sense of what took place last night and that the challenges faced here have far reaching impact even for small children.
For me, "SpongeBob SquarePants," will forever be a memorable character that links me to a moment in time when I was called to watch over two little boys facing one of life's most difficult challenges.
Tonight is short and sweet. I spent most of today laughing at myself after re-reading what I wrote last night. The outcome was quite sloppy and for the most part lacked coherent thought. That's what you get, I suppose, for trying to convey a touching and meaningful experience when you are lethargic and half asleep! ;o) My apologies for the hyroglifics and third grade writing skills.
My hope is that you were able to gain some sense of what took place last night and that the challenges faced here have far reaching impact even for small children.
For me, "SpongeBob SquarePants," will forever be a memorable character that links me to a moment in time when I was called to watch over two little boys facing one of life's most difficult challenges.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
SpongeBob SquarePants & A Box Of Tissues
Hi. Sorry I haven't posted in a while, but things here have been very busy and finding the time to sit and write, when I should be sleeping, is a challenge. I find myself working all hours of the day and night, so sleep, GOOD sleep, is a rare comodity.
Alot has happened in the past several days since I last posted, but time here is a blurr and transparent to me. Monday seems like Sunday and Tuesday seems like Monday. My schedule is skewed with having Sunday and Monday off, but then when Dignified Transfers run late into the night and often into the next morning, it just messes with your internal clock / calendar.
Tonight I had a 7:15 mission that pushed out until 8:00pm. The flight landed and the family was with us at the Center For the Families of The Fallen. The General officer came over from the Navy (Admiral) to speak with the family, however so as to save the two young boys from listening to grown-ups talk about grown-up things, I scurried them off to the X-Box room to help occupy their minds. . I played with two young fellas who learned that yesterday their dad lost his life. So we went into the gameroom an I heped them to play with the X Box. They were excited so we sat down with cookies and juice boxes. The one boy wanted to play Batman, but the other didn't want to. So instead it was SpongeBob Squarepants. I'm okay with it, jus working with those kids was a fun time and good way to edify their dad.
So Jacob and the older boy, John began to play. John was good, but only his little brother could bounce around the Spongebob character. It caused some angst between the two, but they still worked well. When Jacob the littlte guy got upset and didn't want to share, so after he got bored, he handed the game paddle to me. So I was learning buttons and sticks and switches to make it look like I was in control, but I was found out really quick that I am not destined to be great at these games. We played for about a half hour and I was really keeping it exciting. Then I look over to little Jacob and he's just siting there holding his hands, watching us play, but more importantly, his eyes were locked and staring. I asked him if he was okay and he said " My dad died". I quickly offered my condolencs and told him how lucky he was to have a dad who is a SUPER HERO! He went on playing for a time until we had to leave for the flightline.
There was some slight sobbing, as expected, but the boys were checking out the airplanes.
We parked the vehicle and the family got out and stood along the stanchion for the ceremony.
The boys cried little boy cries, and spoke during the sobbing. "It wasn't supposed to be this way Mom" One yelled. "We're still kids, We're still kids." Mom did the best she could to console them.
The story goes that the father was in Afghanistan and was due to come home in a little of 24 days.
We watched and prayed with the family as the DT was soon to comence. Tears flowed and then it got quiet as they watched the movement of the transfer case.
When the DT was completed, the family is encouraged to move over toward the back of the bus, so they can watch the vehicle drive off. The little boys continued crying harder now and I just stayed there with him. on one knee. The onle little boy came up to me and hugged me. I told him his dad was a super hero and that made him a part of the super heroes club. I also told him that I would take care of his Dad while he was here and make sure he go the best care and would never be left alone. He smiled.
We boarded the bus to take the family back over to the CFF. The boys were fascinated by the police escort lights and also the light on the dash of the motuary vehicle. WE talked about how he could swim 7ft. down and grab a diving club. He sounded like that made him very proud. So I went with it so he could tell me more. Suddenly, he broke down into sobbs again and said it wasn't dad's time to go....."We're still kids, We're still kids" He got some tissues and said thank you. Nice manners these boys had. Their Mother attributed that to their father' s upbringing. When we returned to the Center for the Family's of the Fallen, the boys jumped off the bus and ran inside. I followed the one boy and he headed into tht meditation room. I thought he was looking for Tissues, but he wanted a place to be by himself. I followed him in and he closed the door behind me. He cried and sat down on a seat. He told me to c'mere, that he had something to tell me. HE said " I think it's my fault that my dad didn't make it home" He talked about how his dad wanted to buy a Dodge Charger, but there was more to it. Something about he thought his dad was crazy for buying that. Then he bought it apparently and went of to war. So the boy wanted to take blame for his Daddy's death, but I wouldnt let him. I explained that his dad was a wonderful man, who wanted to join the navy to make difference in this world. He gave his life as a gift to help save other people. So I told them that their dad was a Superhero for leaving this world a little better than he found it.
I helped them find some gum and mints in the center, for their ride home. I told him to take care of himself and help his little brother to undertand and set a good example for him.
These boys want to both join the Navy to be Captains just like their dad.
Incidentally, I told the chaplain about what the boy said to me in the room and he went out to the chaplain who is working directly with the family to advise him of that. I wish them well and hope those little guys get what they need to survive this in their lives.
Dignified Transfers Witnessed: 30
Alot has happened in the past several days since I last posted, but time here is a blurr and transparent to me. Monday seems like Sunday and Tuesday seems like Monday. My schedule is skewed with having Sunday and Monday off, but then when Dignified Transfers run late into the night and often into the next morning, it just messes with your internal clock / calendar.
Tonight I had a 7:15 mission that pushed out until 8:00pm. The flight landed and the family was with us at the Center For the Families of The Fallen. The General officer came over from the Navy (Admiral) to speak with the family, however so as to save the two young boys from listening to grown-ups talk about grown-up things, I scurried them off to the X-Box room to help occupy their minds. . I played with two young fellas who learned that yesterday their dad lost his life. So we went into the gameroom an I heped them to play with the X Box. They were excited so we sat down with cookies and juice boxes. The one boy wanted to play Batman, but the other didn't want to. So instead it was SpongeBob Squarepants. I'm okay with it, jus working with those kids was a fun time and good way to edify their dad.
So Jacob and the older boy, John began to play. John was good, but only his little brother could bounce around the Spongebob character. It caused some angst between the two, but they still worked well. When Jacob the littlte guy got upset and didn't want to share, so after he got bored, he handed the game paddle to me. So I was learning buttons and sticks and switches to make it look like I was in control, but I was found out really quick that I am not destined to be great at these games. We played for about a half hour and I was really keeping it exciting. Then I look over to little Jacob and he's just siting there holding his hands, watching us play, but more importantly, his eyes were locked and staring. I asked him if he was okay and he said " My dad died". I quickly offered my condolencs and told him how lucky he was to have a dad who is a SUPER HERO! He went on playing for a time until we had to leave for the flightline.
There was some slight sobbing, as expected, but the boys were checking out the airplanes.
We parked the vehicle and the family got out and stood along the stanchion for the ceremony.
The boys cried little boy cries, and spoke during the sobbing. "It wasn't supposed to be this way Mom" One yelled. "We're still kids, We're still kids." Mom did the best she could to console them.
The story goes that the father was in Afghanistan and was due to come home in a little of 24 days.
We watched and prayed with the family as the DT was soon to comence. Tears flowed and then it got quiet as they watched the movement of the transfer case.
When the DT was completed, the family is encouraged to move over toward the back of the bus, so they can watch the vehicle drive off. The little boys continued crying harder now and I just stayed there with him. on one knee. The onle little boy came up to me and hugged me. I told him his dad was a super hero and that made him a part of the super heroes club. I also told him that I would take care of his Dad while he was here and make sure he go the best care and would never be left alone. He smiled.
We boarded the bus to take the family back over to the CFF. The boys were fascinated by the police escort lights and also the light on the dash of the motuary vehicle. WE talked about how he could swim 7ft. down and grab a diving club. He sounded like that made him very proud. So I went with it so he could tell me more. Suddenly, he broke down into sobbs again and said it wasn't dad's time to go....."We're still kids, We're still kids" He got some tissues and said thank you. Nice manners these boys had. Their Mother attributed that to their father' s upbringing. When we returned to the Center for the Family's of the Fallen, the boys jumped off the bus and ran inside. I followed the one boy and he headed into tht meditation room. I thought he was looking for Tissues, but he wanted a place to be by himself. I followed him in and he closed the door behind me. He cried and sat down on a seat. He told me to c'mere, that he had something to tell me. HE said " I think it's my fault that my dad didn't make it home" He talked about how his dad wanted to buy a Dodge Charger, but there was more to it. Something about he thought his dad was crazy for buying that. Then he bought it apparently and went of to war. So the boy wanted to take blame for his Daddy's death, but I wouldnt let him. I explained that his dad was a wonderful man, who wanted to join the navy to make difference in this world. He gave his life as a gift to help save other people. So I told them that their dad was a Superhero for leaving this world a little better than he found it.
I helped them find some gum and mints in the center, for their ride home. I told him to take care of himself and help his little brother to undertand and set a good example for him.
These boys want to both join the Navy to be Captains just like their dad.
Incidentally, I told the chaplain about what the boy said to me in the room and he went out to the chaplain who is working directly with the family to advise him of that. I wish them well and hope those little guys get what they need to survive this in their lives.
Dignified Transfers Witnessed: 30
Monday, July 19, 2010
Recharging My Spirit
Yesterday and today, I was able to return home and spend some time with loved ones. It was wonderful to escape from the grueling timeline of events that take place here, all hours of the day and night. Sleep and a regimented schedule are seldom found here. Often, we can manage the Dignified Transfers with one chaplain, one assistant and a mental health technician along with a few volunteers. On occasion, however, when an escort accompanies the fallen, we are tasked with meeting them on the aircraft and taking them to see the family, if permission is given. Otherwise, we have to take them to where they will stay until the fallen servicemember is processed and released to the family. It is an additional duty that the chaplain assistant is given. Since there are only two of us here in support of 4 chaplains, we are tasked heavily and are often times on duty together working missions in tandem. One of us is at the "Center For The Families Of The Fallen," while the other is meeting the aircraft and taking care of the escorts that arrive. It's tough to plan for some time off, when you can be called in on a moments notice to perform escort duty, or handle the DT. We are heavy laden with all sorts of communication devices to manage all the alerts and messages that go out to the teams. At times, I'm juggling keys, phones & Blackberries, so that I'm prepared for duty.
I just returned to my room after a bowling event at the base bowling alley. The crew from the Air Force Mortuary, scheduled a social at the alley for us all, so we could get together for a few laughs and some competition on the lanes. We won "Best Looking Team," so I guess you can conclude that we didn't win the tournament! It was still great fun and helped us all grow our friendships since we will be in this together for the next 5 1/2 months.
I have to report at 12:45pm (0045hrs "mil" time) for a DT tonight. We have several fallen coming in and I am to go out and pick-up 2 escorts on the flightline. On a side note, it only took 5 arduous days and 6 painful tests to obtain a flightline driver's license. Couldn't believe that they wouldn't accept that I drive in the Washington DC Metro area as sufficient experience. Go figure.
Anyway, when I get back from this mission, I'm hoping to get some rest and report in the morning around 8am or so.
This will be a very intense and busy week for the team. We have much to accomplish, including a chaplain sponsored dinner on Thursday night for approximately 45 people. I have no idea yet what we will have, all I know is that we don't have a kitchen to prepare a meal in, so we're going to have to get real creative. The prior team had some great meals, so I'm sure we're capable of the same. I've got to rally some helper's, so that will be my goal tomorrow and Wednesday.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (26)
I just returned to my room after a bowling event at the base bowling alley. The crew from the Air Force Mortuary, scheduled a social at the alley for us all, so we could get together for a few laughs and some competition on the lanes. We won "Best Looking Team," so I guess you can conclude that we didn't win the tournament! It was still great fun and helped us all grow our friendships since we will be in this together for the next 5 1/2 months.
I have to report at 12:45pm (0045hrs "mil" time) for a DT tonight. We have several fallen coming in and I am to go out and pick-up 2 escorts on the flightline. On a side note, it only took 5 arduous days and 6 painful tests to obtain a flightline driver's license. Couldn't believe that they wouldn't accept that I drive in the Washington DC Metro area as sufficient experience. Go figure.
Anyway, when I get back from this mission, I'm hoping to get some rest and report in the morning around 8am or so.
This will be a very intense and busy week for the team. We have much to accomplish, including a chaplain sponsored dinner on Thursday night for approximately 45 people. I have no idea yet what we will have, all I know is that we don't have a kitchen to prepare a meal in, so we're going to have to get real creative. The prior team had some great meals, so I'm sure we're capable of the same. I've got to rally some helper's, so that will be my goal tomorrow and Wednesday.
Dignified Transfers witnessed (26)
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)