God Bless Our Troops

It was the fifth day in row that temps were above 120 on the thermometer inside the chow hall.. Out side the walls we could only see sand in every direction. Out unit was here for some fuel, hot food, and a shower. We had patrolled this part of the sandpile for 375 days running. Same schedule each time, one day out, one day back, and one day gas, shower, and food We had been lucky and not lost one member of our unit. We knew each breath we took might be our last since sniper fire was around us at every tick of the clock..

Most everyone called home via the Internet. The spouse sound wonderful filling us with inspiration to continue on. Jakes' boy walked for the first time. Ursula's daughter got engaged to be married to a Marine. Monk's granddaughter was cutting teeth. Fred's son was named most valuable player of the week in his flag football league. This day off we all had positive news. My beloved reminded me the twin's third birthday was next month.

The best part of the mission was the shower. Hot sudsy water cascading over our bodies, refreshing our minds and cleansing our bodies. Second best part of the mission was mail call. The cards and letter handwritten with love. The packages wrapped tight full of goodies, more love and support. My box had three Picasso's from my boys and a pot holder hand knit from my baby girl (she's ten but still my baby) A couple of the fella's from Tiffin, Ohio received boxes of Ballreich's Potato Chips. One was half gone but had a note "MMM Good thanks for sharing." signed by a Tiffin-ite in Iraq. Sarge was walking off alone, shoulders slumped, shuffling his feet.

When I caught up to him he was sitting starring into the desert holding a wedding picture. His son had gotten married in Vegas and the next day got orders for Iraq. Sarge was upset not only had he missed another family event but now his son was on his way to this hell hole. "I know he is a good soldier. I know he is following his heart. Damn it he's my son."