Manatee's Military Moms

Heading to Afghanistan

2010-04-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

As I came home from work last week, a parcel greeted me on the worn little table by the door. The same flat rate box that I’ve sent to Daniel during his past two deployments was now addressed to me — from my son.

Inside, I found a Camelbak, ballistic eyewear with interchangeable lenses, ear protection in a handy case, a headlamp with a red lens and a book about warfare along with other odds and ends.

I didn’t join the military, though I did volunteer to tell their stories.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had an intense desire to cover the stories of Afghanistan. I want to find and share the experiences of the military who are serving there and of the people who live and make their home in a country perpetually at war.

I was surprised after my most recent pleadings when Joan Krauter, my executive editor, told me to write our Washington bureau and ask them to consider sending me on assignment. (She either believes in me, or I wore her down with my persistence -- she says it’s the former.)

I say 'surprised' because Joan cringes at the thought of violence or danger in all forms -- it took me months to sell her on a project documenting the growth of mixed martial arts in Florida.

So, now I sit in a hotel room in the rolling green hills of Virginia, ready to embark upon a weeklong stint of hostile environment training which will prepare me, as much as anything can, for working in a country at war.

This blog - -which has helped me through numerous stages of wonder, fear, ups, downs, pride, love, and respect for my son’s career and all those who serve — will be put to rest for the time being.

Soon, I’ll post a link to a new blog where I’ll share my observations, experiences, and stories of the people I meet.

I hope to do them justice.

--Tiffany

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Congratulations, Christine Semones

Christine D. Semones has been awarded an Air Force ROTC scholarship to attend a host college or university. High school seniors from across the United States are selected after a competitive application process based on comprehensive tests scores, scholastic achievement, school officials' evaluations, extra-curricular activities, and community involvement.
The majority of scholarships cover full college tuition, provide a textbook allowance and pay most laboratory or incidental fees. The scholarship program also pays a $350 tax-free monthly allowance to each student during the academic year, which increases to $500 by his or her senior year. The value of a scholarship may exceed $100,000, depending on the student's choice of school and the type of scholarship offered.
Upon graduating from college and completing the ROTC program, the cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the Air Force. The new lieutenants select and enter various career fields to train as pilots, navigators, engineers, medical, personnel, business management fields, and special operations.
She is the daughter of Michael and Dawn Semones of 28th St., Parrish, Fla.
Her grandparents, Brock and Gloria Jackson, also reside on 28th St., Parrish.
Semones is a student at Palmetto High School, Fla.

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Congratulations, Max Dean

Air Force Airman Max N. Dean graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Nick and Mimi Dean of Summer Blossom Lane, Bradenton, Fla.

Dean is a 2008 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School, Bradenton.

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Around the military:

Fire boat response crews battle the blazing remnants of the oil rig Deepwater Horizon off the Louisiana coast in the Gulf of Mexico, April 21, 2010. A Coast Guard MH-65C dolphin rescue helicopter and crew document the fire aboard the mobile drilling unit Deepwater Horizon, while searching for survivors. Multiple Coast Guard helicopters, planes and cutters responded to rescue the Deepwater Horizon's 126 person crew. U.S. Coast Guard photo

U.S. and Polish members of the Ghazni Provincial Reconstruction Team conduct a shura or meeting with village elders in Jaghatu village in Ghazni, Afghanistan, April 14, 2010. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. J.T. May III

The U.S. Air Force Aerial Demonstration Squadron known as the Thunderbirds demonstrates F-16 Fighting Falcon acrobatic maneuvers on Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., April 11, 2010. The Thunderbirds headlined Eglin's 75th Air Show with more than 140,000 spectators in attendance. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Sheila Devera

Visit Sarah Smiley-Navy wife

2010-04-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

Busy day today--so going to keep it short. (It seems that there's a time of year when all the annual checkups come due--this is my week: say "ahhh," then pull out your wallet. Loads of fun.)

So…during my browsings for something interesting, I came across Sarah Smiley--remember her? She's a Navy wife with a serious gift with words. Here's a link to some of her columns.

Enjoy!

--Tiffany

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Too fat to fight?

read a new report:

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Around the military:

A CH 46 from HMM166, the MEU's Aviation Combat Element shoots flares during an aerial display April 8. Via Twitter

A U.S. Army soldier performs a pre-flight system check on a Black Hawk helicopter before a flight at Forward Operating Base Fenty, Kunar province, Afghanistan, on April 15, 2010. This Task Force Lighthorse mission includes soldiers from Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment with the 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division. The preparations are for a leaflet drop. DoD photo by Spc. Lorenzo Ware, U.S. Army. (Released)

U.S. Navy Lt. Michael Hodges pulls himself up through a mechanical rescue hoist as he is raised into an SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter while conducting drills in the Arabian Gulf, April 13, 2010. Hodges is assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 1. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael D. Blackwell II

Special people: They're standing right next to you!

2010-04-18T04:32:00.001-07:00

Don’t groan before I finish this sentence…but I watched Michael Moore’s “Capitalism: A Love Story” last night with my husband.

When Moore argued that people who make disgusting amounts of money are glorified rather than the ‘real folk’ who keep the machinery moving—it stuck with me.

Who ground that hamburger you’re eating? Who fixed your fridge when it broke? Who flew your plane on that last visit to grandma in Ohio? Who taught your kid how to conjugate French verbs?

Yup—just normal people.

Folks like the ones who fight fires, catch the bad guys, and keep our country safe.

They are Moore’s 99% who don’t grin at us from the covers of magazines lining the checkout counters at the supermarket.

They are our neighbors, friends, and family—and they’re on my pedestal.

--Tiffany

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Welcome home, Sailor Adam Brewer!

Soldier bloggers: Reality-check reading

2010-04-14T06:17:00.001-07:00

Sometimes it’s good for our inner compass to listen to those who can tell us straight-up what’s going on from their perspective.

That’s why I’m going to share some links for blogs written by soldiers, sailors and Marines. This is by no means a comprehensive list—there are thousands out there. These bloggers want to share their experiences, insights, and feelings. Let’s give them a listen:

THOUGHTS FROM AFGHANISTAN: “Reflections of an Indian Immigrant and officer in the United States Army serving in Afghanistan in 2009-2010.”

ONE MARINE’S VIEW: “You can torture me, kill me but just don't bore me.”

SGT. DANGER: “I’m an American citizen, proud of my country and its heritage. I enlisted in the United States Army in 2003, following two years of as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Long Beach, California. I’m a non-commissioned officer; leading soldiers is the most satisfying part of my life, apart from my family and church service.”

MICHAEL YON ONLINE: “Michael Yon is a former Green Beret, native of Winter Haven, Fl. who has been reporting from Iraq and Afghanistan since December 2004.”

U.S. FLEET BLOG: “This is the official U.S. Fleet Forces Command blog.”

THE HELMAND BLOG: “The Helmand blog is run by Major Paul Smyth and the team from UK Forces Media Ops. The team is located in Helmand at Camp Bastion and the Task Force Headquarters and works to support the coalition forces together with the other government departments such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development.”

--Tiffany

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A kind offer of horseback riding from a former "Army Brat"

My name is Kathy Hunt and I am a former "Army Brat". My dad retired from the Army when I was 17 so I grew up in the military life and have a very strong appreciation for everything that anyone in any branch of the service does for our country.

I am writing you because I kind of accidently came across your blog and wanted to extend an offer to any military personnel you know that may be visiting our area while on leave or before being deployed overseas. I own and operate a small horseback trail riding business with my fiance' (who was also in the army) here in the area. We take people riding at Little Manatee River State Park, Alafia State Park and when the trails dry out, Myakka River State Park. We have a website if you would like to check it out. What we would like to do is offer a free ride to any active duty military personnel. If you would like to pass this along to anyone you know that would be great.

Thank you,

Kathy

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Around the military:

U.S. Army soldiers walk with Afghan children through the village of HeydarKheyl in Sayed-Abad district in Afghanistan's Wardak province, March 25, 2010. The soldiers, assigned to the 450th Civil Affairs Battalion, are in the area to help improve humanitarian conditions in the village. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joel Meyer and Staff Sgt. Derek Walton train on room-clearing tactics on Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., April 5, 2010. Meyer and Walton are assigned to the 28th Security Forces Squadron. Meyer was selected as the 2009 Security Forces Air Force Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua J. Seybert

The U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, performs during the Southernmost Air Spectacular air show on Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., April 10, 2010. More than 21,000 people attended the two-day air show. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael McNabb

A SMART gift: Unconditional love

2010-04-11T06:15:00.001-07:00

There’s nothing more frustrating than having an amazing gift, and nobody to share it with.

That’s the position Gail Clifton of SMART finds her organization in right now; a fantastic program for wounded warriors and veterans, with no takers.

“We have the capability to serve any kind of disability, we are really set up well,” said Clifton, executive director of Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy.

Horses for Heroes, a program set up a year ago for wounded warriors to help with brain injuries, amputations, PTSD, or challenges of any kind, has not had one participant—yet.

Gail is hoping to get the word out so veterans can benefit from the free program.

“I firmly believe this program is good for people. When it takes off, it will be successful,” said Clifton.

“It improves core strength, spatial awareness, and increases confidence,” said Clifton, who went on: “I’ll accept a veteran from any war.”

Out in East Bradenton at 4800 County Road 675 between State Road 70 and State Road 64 is a stable full of fuzzy, warm horses and a group of trained volunteers waiting to serve those who have served their country.

What’s their gift? Unconditional love.

--Tiffany

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Manasota's Operation Troop Support
upcoming volunteer opportunities:

Sam's Club Shop For the Troops Food Drive will be held again on Friday,
April 16th, from 9am to 3pm at the Bradenton location off of Highway
301. Volunteers are needed!

The MOTS Pantry is getting bare, so all who would like to volunteer in
passing out shopping lists for the toops to Sam's Club customers and
collecting the goodies, please call 941-782-0748. You can make a
difference with just one hour or so of your time. It's a fun,
interactive volunteer experience and you will probably see some of your
neighbors there!

The last time Sam's invited us to do this over $1800 worth of product
donated for our locally deployed troops.

And...
Manasota Operation Troop Support will be having their monthly Packing
Party for the Troops on Saturday, April 17th, from 10am to Noon.
It will be held at the MOTS offices at 4301 32nd St W, Suite C-20, in
Bradenton. Volunteers are needed! Last month 37 people showed up to
pack food and hygiene products for the deployed troops in Iraq,
Afghanistan, and Kuwait.

All ages are welcome! What a great way to start your weekend! Call
941-782-0748 with any questions or to sign up.

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Spc. Greg R. Kenshalo fires an automatic grenade launcher during an attack on Combat Outpost Bar Alai in Kunar province, Afghanistan, April 5, 2010. Multiple insurgents with automatic machine guns opened fire about seven hours after a sniper also shot at the base. No members of Afghan or international forces were injured during the attacks. Kenshalo is a a rifleman with Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment.U.S. Army photo by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gary A. Witte

A U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter provides aerial security while Iraqi army soldiers conduct an air assault operation in Taji, Iraq, March 29, 2010. The operation demonstrated the last six weeks of training on helicopter egress and assault maneuvers provided by U.S. Army helicopter pilots assigned to the 1st Air Cavalry Division's 227 Assault Helicopter Battalion. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Venessa Hernandez

U.S. troops and volunteers join wounded servicemembers to bike 65 miles on Texas roads from Austin to Fort Hood during the "Ride 2 Recovery" bike challenge, April 8, 2010. The event encourages the mental and physical rehabilitation of active duty troops and veterans while promoting awareness of their sacrifices. U.S. Army photo by D. Myles Cullen

An earth-rattling Easter

2010-04-07T05:08:00.001-07:00

I flipped open my phone Sunday, eager to give Daniel and Ashley a call to wish them a happy Easter, but noticed a message icon in the window:

“Hey, I wanted to let you know we just had an earthquake but we are fine. Happy Easter!”

I pictured them in their little house on the top of a steep hill, and took a deep breath as I pressed their number on my phone.

As it was picked up, I could hear the hum of voices and what sounded like a party going on.

“We’re having Thanksgiving on Easter,” said Daniel, and the 7.2 earthquake centered in Baja which rattled the dishes, set the light fixtures swinging and the cats zinging only added spice to the conversation at the gathering.

Ashley had frozen her turkey and saved it for Daniel’s return from deployment to have Thanksgiving together, and had invited some of their Marine friends over to share their celebration.

How was the party?

Earth-shaking--but they took it in stride.

That’s just how they roll...

--Tiffany

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From Terry Longpre:
The Patriot Guard Riders escort Spc. Peter Mannina of Sarasota
off to his deployment:

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Around the military:

A U.S. Marine pulls security near a poppy field in Peyo as Marines and Afghan soldiers patrol through the village in the Bala Baluk district in Afghanistan's Farah province, March 29, 2010. The Marines are assigned to Marine Special Operation Command.U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Pilch

U.S. Marines remain suspended from a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter during a special insertion and extraction exercise in Djibouti, March 24, 2010. The Marines are assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Various non-infantry Marines received the opportunity to participate in the exercise for the first time. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alex C. Sauceda

U.S. Navy sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush practice manning a fire hose during a damage control event in the hangar bay in the Atlantic Ocean, April 3, 2010. The event offered several exercises related to damage control, including fire fighting and mass casualty response. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Tackitt

Little dancer...all grown up

2010-04-04T05:38:00.001-07:00

I used to tell her, “Pull up! Heel forward! Listen to the music!”

But on the Bonhomme Richard’s Facebook page we traded comments for a full month before I realized this mature young woman--married to a sailor deployed on the same ship as Daniel--was my ballet student--a long time ago.

“Did you used to take ballet at Allison’s?” I asked Karen one evening--glad she didn’t realize who I was until after we had stuck up a friendship; I was known as a hard taskmaster…though I’m sure the girls had a very different description of me.

She ran up to me last week, breathless with excitement and gave me a big hug.

She was leaving for San Diego this week, ready for the homecoming of the USS Bonhomme Richard and her husband, Adam Brewer.

“Do you want a kitten?” she asked, then she quickly laid out her plans for her husband’s return. I had a distinct feeling of déjà-vu as right at that moment, she reminded me of my daughter-in-law, Ashley.

After one last hug, she ran off into the crowd at the Seafood Fest, and I felt deeply thankful to have been a part of this young woman’s life in some small way.

I wish them all the best.

--Tiffany

Note:
For the last month, an embarked representative from the Fleet and Family Service Center has facilitated return and reunion workshops for crew members, focusing on returning to family, financial planning and emotional changes that may occur after deployment. The Reality Standdown provided additional information for possible changes and challenges that lay ahead for Bonhomme Richard crewmembers readjusting post-deployment.

Happy Easter

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From Terry Longpre:

A lone bugler plays taps at an indigent ceremony at the Sarasota National Cemetery. You may call the cemetery if you would like to attend a service in support of Veterans who pass with no friends or family.

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Around the military:

U.S. Marines provide security in a wheat field in Suji as Afghan soldiers and Marines patrol through the village in the Bala Baluk district in Afghanistan's Farah province, March 29, 2010. The Marines are assigned to Marine Special Operation Command Marines. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Pilch

U.S. Army Sgt. Patrick Audette, assigned to Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, passes by a herd of sheep during a dismounted patrol near Baghdad, Iraq, on Mar. 7, 2010. The soldiers are in the area providing security for polling stations 300 meters away. DoD photo by 1st Lt. Becky Bort, U.S. Army.

U.S. and Afghan soldiers patrol through Bibycott village in Paktika province, Afghanistan, March 27, 2010. The U.S. soldiers are assigned to the Paktika Reconstruction Team. U.S. Army Photo by Pfc. Christopher McKenna

Noble, patriotic, wacky

2010-03-31T04:28:00.001-07:00

“What a great picture,” said a woman in my office yesterday as she gestured towards my desk.

“Which one?” I asked, as there are quite a few cluttering up the place.

“That one?” I asked as I pointed to a photo which gives me endless amusement, but seems to put others at a loss for words.

You see, there is this lovely portrait of my son from his graduation from Parris Island…the flag is unfurled just so behind him, his uniform is immaculate, there is a noble gleam in his eye…

…and then there’s one of the photos from his last deployment. That photo kind of scares people, but makes me laugh every time I look at it.

Daniel and one of his buddies are sporting “moto-hawks,” and Daniel is doing his infamous Drill Instructor “knife hand” at the camera with a look of maniacal glee on his face.

“Is that the same person?” innocently asked the visitor, as she eyed the ‘funny’ picture.

“Yup,” but that’s a deployment picture, I explained.

Military parents probably understand. They need to blow off steam on deployment; they can get wacky.

It’s normal; it’s healthy; it’s hilarious.

It’s a mystery to the un-initiated.

I love the graduation picture with all my heart; but the funny photo is my favorite. It shows that my son knows how to enjoy his life, no matter where he is or what he’s doing.

That makes his mother happy.

--Tiffany

note: If you want to see the funny photo, you have to visit my office.

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Also funny...
Read Dion Nissenbaum's blog:

McChrystal to troops: Hold the pickle

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VA clinic set to open April 13, officials say

Read more in the Bradenton Herald
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Around the military:

Welcome home,
Florida Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery Regiment!

SARASOTA, Fla. (March 30, 2010) -- More than 170 members of the Florida Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, returned home Sunday evening following a one-year deployment in support of Operation Noble Eagle.Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 265th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, arrive via plane at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, March 28, 2010, following a year-long deployment in support of Operation Noble Eagle. More than 170 Florida National Guard Soldiers from the Sarasota-based unit had deployed to provide air defense support in the National Capital Region. Photo by Master Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa.

U.S. Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, boards a V-22 Osprey in Marja, Afghanistan, March 29, 2010. Mullen held a shura or meeting with local leaders to address future concerns and visited Marines who participated in Operation Moshtarak in February to remove Taliban insurgents from the town. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

U.S. Navy crewmembers aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson observe an FA/18E Super Hornet land during flight operations in the Pacific Ocean, March 28, 2010. The Carl Vinson is supporting Southern Seas, a U.S. Southern Command-directed operation to provide U.S. and international forces the opportunity to operate in a multinational environment. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Barker

Local Marine, Matt Troyer, is making us proud!

2010-03-28T06:39:00.001-07:00

“It is the Marine Corps’ policy to officially recognize meritorious achievement and superlative performance… Commensurate with a Marine’s grade and time in service, it is also recommended to periodically single out individual Marines whose performance of duty and standards of proficiency exceed that generally expected of all Marines.”

That, from a memo written by the Commanding General of the Marine Corps in 2006, is an outline of the standards for nominating a Marine for the title, “Marine of the Quarter.”

Local Marine Mom, Traci Troyer, must be glowing with maternal pride!

Her son, Lance Cpl. Matthew Troyer, a combat photographer with a Regimental Combat team, was recently awarded this honor.

The Marine who attended Lakewood Ranch High sure is making his family pleased.

I’m positive our community is proud and thankful for his service as well. Congratulations, Matthew!

--Tiffany

Marine of the Quarter
Lance Cpl. Matthew P. Troyer
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Check out the informative news site for the Florida National Guard:

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From Terry Longpre:

This is a photo from Friday's Indigent Interment Ceremony. The gentleman was a WWII Navy Veteran. Bob Kline who is a friend of mine and also a WWII Navy Veteran received the flag. This was Bob's first time to attend one of the services.--Terry Longpre

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Congratulations, local Air Force grad!

Air Force Airman Godson K. Ryder graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the grandson of Clifford Livingston of 25th St. E., Palmetto, Fla.

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Around the military:

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jason Mazzella, bottom right, receives the Purple Heart Medal during a Warriors in Transition Purple Heart Ceremony at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, March 26, 2010, for injuries sustained during a rocket attack while conducting medical operations for Afghan civilians near Kunar Valley, Afghanistan. U.S. Navy Petty Officer1st Class Mollly A. Burgess

U.S. Marines hold a memorial service for Pfc. Jason H. Estopinal, Staff Sgt. Christopher W. Eckard, Lance Cpl. Adam D. Peak, Lance Cpl. Eric L. Ward and Lance Cpl. Garrett W. Gamble on Patrol Base Hassan Abad in Garmsir district in Afghanistan's Helmand province, March 22, 2010. The five Marines were killed in action while conducting counterinsurgency operations in Garmsir district. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dwight A. Henderson

As the sun rises, soldiers weave through an obstacle course on Camp Taji, Iraq, March 23, 2010. The soldiers, assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division's, Company F, 3rd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, worked together to complete the challenges during eight events. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Travis Zielinski

The cycle of life: the joy, the heartbreak

2010-03-24T05:08:00.000-07:00

Through my mail arrives the heralding of a vast array of life’s moments:

The birth of little Nevaeh to a proud Marine grandmother, Nanette Readinger, with an amazing photo of the tiny baby nestled in the arms of her father’s dress blues.

An announcement of promotion for Manatee High grad Doug Scholfield to Captain in the Marine Corps—football and family apparently prepared him well.

Local graduates from the Air Force Academy--we seem to have a lot of those! Robert T. Alley, Kevin A. Scharroo and John T. Constantine are ready to make their mark on the world.

And the outpouring of love and support for our troops were apparent at last weekend’s “packing party” at MOTS where folks packed 75 care packages for local troops in about an hour.

Sadly, another Florida Marine has fallen in battle. Lance Cpl. Justin J. Wilson, 24, died in Afghanistan just yesterday.

As Nanette said in the joyous announcement of her grandchild’s birth, “the cycle of life continues.”

Amen.

I pray for the safety of our troops around the world, and the continued strength of our community’s support for them and their families.

--Tiffany

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Welcome, newest Marine baby!

"This is my precious granddaughter Nevaeh Romeo on her Daddy's arm. She was born January 17, 2010 and was 7 lbs 3 oz 20 inches long. Her parents Sgt. & Mrs. Brent Romeo are beside themselves in happiness and pride. God bless our Marines, their wives (or husbands) and their beautiful children. The cycle of life continues."

Proud Grandma, Nanette Readinger

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Congratulations to local Air Force grads!

Air Force Airman 1st Class Robert T. Alley graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Kathleen and Doyle Alley of 27th Ave. E., Bradenton, Fla.

Alley is a 2005 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School, and received an associate degree in 2007 from Manatee Community College, both in Bradenton

Air National Guard Airman 1st Class John T. Constantine graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

The airman earned distinction as an honor graduate.

He is the son of Kathy Constantine of 15th Way, Palmetto, Fla.

Constantine is a 2008 graduate of Palmetto High School.

Air Force Airman Kevin A. Scharroo graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Andre Scharroo of 59th Place E., Bradenton, Fla.

Scharroo is a 2007 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School, Bradenton.

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From Linda Craig about last week's packing party:

What if you gave a party and nobody came? Well, Manasota Operation Troop Support didn't need to worry. Thirty six people showed up for the first MOTS Packing Party for the Troops on Saturday, March 20th.
They even came early! And what was more amazing was how much lighter the packing of 75 boxes can be with 36 sets of busy, willing hands!
Folks from all walks of life showed up to a packing system that spilled out the front door of the MOTS home office in Lakewood Business Park, and quickly turned into an organized state of happy chaos as we all packed boxes to mail to locally deployed troops in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait. In less than two hours every box was filled and taped.
MOTS sends a package with food and personal items like this to each troop every month. Butin reality,it is not MOTS, but the community surrounding MOTS, that makes this happen time and time again every month. From Shop for the Troops Food Drives, from churches, school children, dentists, veterans, teachers, community outreach events and countless individuals, it happens month after month. For our troops.
And I know that our troops are grateful because they take the time to send letters, emails and cards to tell us so. They often come and visit the office when they are finished with a tour of duty to say "thank you" in person. So I want to thank everyone who came on Saturday to help, and invite everyone to our next packing party for the troops on Saturday, April 17th, at 10am.

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Veteran and Patriot Guard rider Terry Lonpre sent this photo from escorting fallen hero Cpl. Jonathan D. Porto:

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Around the military:

BAMYAN PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN – Members of Task Force Wolverine unload their gear at Kiwi Base in Bamyan Afghanistan, March 17. The primary mission of Task Force Wolverine will be to train and mentor members of the Afghan National Police in Bamyan province. (Photo by U.S. Army Spc. Charles J. Thompson, 300th MPAD, Task Force Cyclone)

Cpl. Jonathan Lehman, a combat engineer for 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, and Lance Cpl. Oscar Osorio, a combat engineer for Combat Logistics Battalion 1, patrol back to forward operating base after fixing an irrigation problem in Marjah, Afghanistan, March 14, 2010. 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and CLB1 worked together in Marjah to bring fortification supplies to 1st Battalion 6th Marine Regiment positions in Marjah

U.S. Soldiers with Bear Troop, 8th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment fortify an Afghan Highway Police checkpoint in Robat, Afghanistan, March 19, 2010, by placing razor wire around the perimeter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II/Released)

Military news? Just a tiny taste...

2010-03-21T06:26:00.001-07:00

What’s going on in the military while everyone’s caught up in the healthcare bill watch?

Well…

The Marines are reactivating the former “Blue Devils,” a Joint Strike Fighter training squadron in April. The squadron will be keeping the skies friendly once again, after a retirement of 13 years with the new F35 Lightning II.

And…

The Army is attempting to help soldiers get mentally fit with a new resilience school at Fort Jackson.

"We'll have Soldiers and civilians and family members who will be able to better deal with adversity, will be able to communicate better with their loved ones, will be able to instill resiliency in the folks they're charged with and will just be better. We will be a better fighting force by being a more resilient Army," said Col. Darryl Williams, deputy director of Comprehensive Soldier Fitness.

Also…

The Navy welcomed home the USS Comfort, which has been doling out aid and life-saving medical care to victims of the Haitian earthquake. During the two months in Haiti, the hospital ship treated 871 patients and performed 843 surgeries.

And finally…

To feed our need for art and acknowledging our more creative side; the Air Force is opening an aviation art gallery in the Pentagon featuring works from WWI to Afghanistan.

Engineering, mental toughness, food for the soul; a solid day's work for a day in the military!

--Tiffany

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A Fallen Florida Hero

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Cpl. Jonathan D. Porto, 26, of Largo, Fla., died March 14 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 1st Battalion 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

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Via Linda Craig, information for homeless veterans:

The Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) has founded a National Call
Center for Homeless Veterans hotline to ensure that homeless Veterans or
Veterans at-risk for homelessness have free, 24/7 access to trained
counselors. The hotline is intended to assist homeless Veterans and
their families, VA Medical Centers, federal, state and local partners,
community agencies, service providers and others in the community. To
be connected with a trained VA staff member call 1-877-4AID VET
(877-424-3838).

* Call for yourself or someone else
* Free and confidential
* Trained VA counselors to assist
* Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
* We have information about VA homeless programs and mental health
services in your area that can help you.

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gerald Frushon, right, and Pvt. Samuel Lima, provide security during a school assessment in Wesh, Afghanistan, March 16, 2010. Frushon and Lima are assigned to C Troop, 8th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II

Tiltorotor Squadron 365 MV-22 Osprey at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. to fly out to Range 210 to conduct the Clear, Hold, Build Exercise, March 3, 2010. Tthe Marines are assigned to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

U.S. Army soldiers prepare to move from cover during an attack by anti-Afghan forces in the Tantil village in eastern Afghanistan's Kunar province, March 13, 2010. The soldiers are assigned to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment. Afghan National Security Forces and International Security Assistance Forces visited the community and its elders in response to a high number of recent attacks in the area.U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Gary A. Witte

Three years later: they still 'do'

2010-03-17T05:28:00.000-07:00

The house was filled to overflowing with buckets of sweetly-scented flowers as one newly dubbed ‘mother-of-the-groom’ checked boxes of tulle, hanging dress clothes and a lengthy to-do list for the umpteenth time.

That was three years ago.

That period of time was quite daunting; Daniel had sprung joining the Marines, going to boot camp, moving away, getting engaged, planning a wedding--on his completely unprepared mother.

Luckily, he was prepared.

How young couples navigate their way through the ups and downs of military life is quite beyond me. Training, separation, deployments, moving locations would test the bonds of any union.

As they exchanged vows on the windy beach, tourists snapped photos and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade wound past the wedding party as my son and his new bride began their life together.

It’s a joy to watch.

--Tiffany

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Checkpoint Kabul is written by Dion Nissenbaum, who covers south Asia with a focus on Afghanistan as bureau chief for McClatchy Newspapers.

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In US MARINES: FIRST TO FIGHT,
viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) as they prepare for their upcoming overseas deployment. The two-part special premieres on March 20 from 8-10 PM (ET) on Military Channel.

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Around the military:

Lance Cpl. Michael L. Grimmius, 2nd Fire Team leader, 1st Squad, 3rd Platoon, Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and a native of Chandler, Minn. provides security during the Clear, Hold, Build Exercise 2 at Range 210 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. March 6.

A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter crew chief prepares to conduct a mission during exercise Emerald Warrior on Fort Walton Beach, Fla., March 11, 2010. The training is a U.S. Special Operations Command-sponsored exercise involving multiple service branches and training sites throughout the southeast. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Clay Lancaster

U.S. Marines disembark the amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry in Morehead City, N.C., March 13, 2010. The Fort McHenry has completed participation in Operation Unified Response to provide humanitarian support to Haiti after a devastating earthquake, and is returning to homeport in Little Creek, Va. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Darryl I. Wood

Making things better--in their own way

2010-03-14T05:29:00.001-07:00

After a few days of forced rest, I’m thankful that Linda Craig of MOTS and Sgt. Neil McCabe of the 17th Fires Brigade in Iraq have stepped up to provide some enlightening photos and stories—thanks, you two!

So read Linda’s description of a sunny day spent fishing with the young relatives of deployed troops and a budding friendship—it’s sure to make you smile. And Neil’s description of the Iraqi elections from COB Basra, Iraq takes you through the steps used to keep the elections safe and secure.

Folks working on both sides of the globe; different jobs, maybe, but both are contributing in their own ways to bring something positive to the table through their work.

--Tiffany

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Congratulations to local Air Force grads:

Air Force Airman Michael L. Witvoet graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in He is the son of Diane Witvoet of Brendle Road, Myakka City, Fla., and grandson of Don Cowan of Hollybush Terrace, Bradenton, Fla.

Witvoet is a 2008 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School, Fla.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Amanda J. Jotham graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

She is the daughter of Carol Jotham of Windsor Court E., Bradenton, Fla., and Timothy Jotham of 67th Ave. Circle E., Sarasota, Fla.

Jotham is a 2009 graduate of Sarasota High School.

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MOTS fishing trip
by volunteer, Linda Craig

Ashley Thorpe is a happy, outgoing 14 year old Bradenton girl. She also has a big brother stationed in Iraq. That part of her life doesn’t make her happy. She says, “I know he’s okay, but I worry about him a lot.”

Ashley was one of the children who attended Manasota Operation Troop Supports’ Monthly Children’s Event, which in March happened to be a Boating and Fishing trip leaving out of the Seafood Shack. Children with deployed family members in our service area, like Ashley, have the opportunity to go on a free outing each month for friendship and fun, with parental supervision.

Ashley was accompanied by her mother Michelle, and her father, Mark, who also happens to be a Veteran.

A total of three children and six adults boarded the boat wearing assorted layers of clothing because of the recent cold spell.

But as the sun warmed the air a little and Captain Mark motored out to find a good fishing spot, no one seemed to notice the cold. Blue skies, crisp air and the thought of baiting a hook seemed to dissolve our everyday cares and worries.

Terry Bibbins, Director of MOTS, also happens to be a skilled fisherman and a patient teacher. As we dropped anchor he showed everyone the right way to bait, cast, and reel them in. However, Ashley didn’t need any instruction. As an experienced fisherwoman she predicted that the water would be too cold to catch anything that day.

Actually, she was almost right. With only 2 small “toss backs” caught, we should have felt dismayed. But it didn’t really matter.

Seeing a dolphin glide and surface repeatedly, laughing as we tried to cast without hooking each other, (Ashley has a mean cast!), making new friends and waving at all of the other boaters was enough fun for us.

As we headed back to shore Ashley sat on the bow with me and said, “I don’t care if we didn’t catch any fish. I had a good time and I made a new friend.”

After docking we all headed to Jose’s Cuban Food for lunch. Terry asked Ashley what she would like to do next month. Ashley and the other kids said that they definitely wanted to go fishing again, but decided on horseback riding for next month.

“Then that’s what we’ll do!” he said. Ashley beamed.

MOTs provides services to Manatee and Sarasota Counties’ deployed troops stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait; and to their children and families. If you would like to learn more about the program, go to MOTSONLINE.org.

MOTS director, Terry Bibbins, with a small fish he caught.

Ashley Thorpe on the fishing trip.

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Empire State MP’s partners in safe Iraqi election
By Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, 17th Fires Brigade PAO

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – As tens of thousands of Basra residents voted in the March 7 national election, Military Police Soldiers from the New York National Guard’s 206th Military Police Company joined their Iraqi Security Force partners monitoring the country’s second largest city in its Provincial Joint Communications Center.

The PJCC is a compound of many facilities, including a modern crime lab, a criminal intelligence center, a jail and barracks and administrative offices, said 1st Lt. Nicholas Monuteaux, a platoon leader with the company, a N.Y. National Guard unit based in Albany. The company is deployed to COB Basra, where it falls under the 203rd Military Police Battalion, attached the 17th Fires Brigade.

Rather than a staging area for executing missions, Monuteaux, who lives in Rensselaer, N.Y., said the PJCC is where representatives from Government of Iraq law enforcement, public safety and military agencies and forces work together in single command room to keep each other informed, hearing the same reports and looking at the same map.

For roughly eight hours election day, Lt. Col. Charles Buxton, the commander of the 203rd, itself a unit of the Alabama National Guard, stayed at the PJCC to be on hand if something happened to break the peace.

To help the Iraqis better follow the movements of military units and teams of election observers the MP’s were tracking, Buxton, who lives in Duluth, Ga., brought with him pieces of paper, just smaller than a postal stamp, labeled with the name of a military element or election observer team. These tabs were placed on the large high-resolution satellite image of the province the Iraqis laid out on the map table of the long room.

For the MP’s, another advantage is being available to answer questions the Iraqis have about the missions and posture of American forces, he said.

A case in point was the report after the polls had closed that an American military convoy was spotted in a just outside the Basra city limits. The Iraqis were not tracking the convoy and an Iraqi police commissioner went to the map table at the end of the command center’s long room to plot the convoy’s location.

Joining the commissioner were other IP’s and an Iraqi Navy lieutenant commander, whose work space and desk were near the table. Together with some MP’s, they compared the report with the positions and movements of American forces labeled on the map, while other MP’s called up to their battalion Tactical Operations Center with their own query.

Within 15 minutes of the report, the police commissioner was able to report to the shift commander that the American military vehicles were part of an Iraqi team securing ballots from polling stations.

Another example was when the battalion TOC called the MP’s at 5:30 p.m. to make sure the IP’s knew that the GOI lifted the election night curfew. One MP turned to another and said, “Yeah they know—they told us.” In fact, the IP’s had passed the information to the Americans just before noon.

Throughout the day, Lt. Col. Awooda Abdal Hafael Manaa, the election day PJCC shift commander, conducted video conference calls with the national operations center in Baghdad with updates on the public safety and security situation. This dialogue from a mid-afternoon call was typical:

Baghdad: Are there any reports of violence?

Manaa: No, nothing.

Baghdad: Are you sure there are no emergencies?

Manaa: Yes.

Baghdad: Then, you are still the “White Province.”

By “White Province,” the national operations center meant the city and province of Basra were not marred by trouble or violence, Monuteaux said. “Basra is the model for all the other provinces today.”

As reports came to the MP’s, often Buxton himself would move the tabs and use these updates as an opportunity to brief the shift commander.

At 6:15 p.m., after the polls had closed and before Buxton returned to the Basra Operations Center, a centralized facility specifically for the Iraqi military, he gestured to his interpreter and said, “Let’s let the shift commander know what is going on.”

Then, at the map table, the battalion commander briefed Manaa on the most recent movements of American, British and other foreign contingents. When he had finished, the IP colonel asked Buxton for an honest assessment of the how the day’s operation had gone.

During his drive through the city that morning, Buxton said to him, he saw that both security force officers and patrolmen carried themselves with professionalism.

“I am glad it went well today and there were no accidents,” the battalion commander said. “I think you had a very good plan.”

The practice of keeping the Iraqi Police as the inner ring, with primacy in the city, while the Iraqi Army provided security around the outer ring, also worked out very well, he said. “Now we just have to work together to secure the ballots.”

For the voters, the day was over. But, for the Iraqi Security Forces and their partners from New York State, it was on to the next phase.

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Around the military:

A U.S. Army Chinook Helicopter makes its landing approach to deliver a humvee to a Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan, March 4, 2010. The Chinook is the U.S. Army's primary cargo aircraft and has been one of the main work horses throughout Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kenny Holston

U.S. Army Spc. Louis Phay, with Alpha Company, 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, installs a culvert denial system along Highway 601 in the Helmand province of Afghanistan on March 6, 2010. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Jones, U.S. Air Force. (Released)

SOUDA BAY, Greece (Mar. 09, 2010) USS Florida (SSGN 728), Ohio-class guided-missile submarine, arrives for a routine port visit to the island of Crete. Florida is homeported in Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, Georgia and has a crew of 14 officers and 144 enlisted. The SSGN is a key element of the Navy's future fighting force. With its tremendous payload capacity, each SSGN employs emerging technologies and brings a new set of mission and operational capability to the warfighter. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley. via flickr

Courage from Marjah to Kandahar

2010-03-07T05:44:00.001-08:00

Even as the joyful reunions of 87 troops and their families filled the arrival area of the Tampa Airport yesterday, military strategists were planning for the next big push to Kandahar as the war in Afghanistan picks up momentum.

"I think General McChrystal's been pretty clear that the focus will turn to Kandahar," he told reporters at the Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, CA, referring to Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan. Mullen added: "His main effort is really in the south, and Kandahar will be next,” according to John J. Kruzel.

Marjah—a name on a map to many of us—but young Kalandra Rohehorse Yazzie, 5 months pregnant, will probably never forget the name of the place where her husband, 23 year old Marine LCpl. Alejandro Yazzie was killed by a Taliban sniper’s bullet.

Sadly, there will probably more stories of loss and heartache in the weeks and months ahead as the mission to eradicate the Taliban from Afghanistan continues. It’s hard to contemplate, but it would be foolhardy not to acknowledge the dangers ahead.

"Courage is endurance for one minute more..."Unknown Marine Second Lieutenant in Vietnam.

--Tiffany

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Congratulations Sgt. Daniel Craft!

"I still need Marines who can shoot and salute. But I need Marines who can fix jet engines and man sophisticated radar sets, as well." General Robert E. Cushman, Jr., USMC
Commandant of the Marine Corps, 17 May 1974

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Okay, I love this. But where is the Ooh Rah button?
I would buy it for those times you just need some super moto to get the job done!

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Dispatch from Iraq
via
Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, 17th Fires Brigade:

Iraqi Army Staff Maj. Gen. Aziz Noor Swady al-Dalmy (center), the commanding general of the IA's Basra-based 14th Division, March 1 was briefed by the Soldiers and Sailors of Task Force Thunderbolt at the headquarters of the 17th Fires Brigade. Al-Dalmy was joined by Brig. Gen. Randal A. Dragon (right), the U.S. Forces Division South deputy commanding general for sustainment, and Col. Steven L. Bullimore, the commander of the 17th FiB, which with its Navy and other elements operates as Task Force, Thunderbolt. U.S Amy photo by Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, 17th Fires Brigade PAO/Released

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class James Lee provides aerial security from the rear door of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter over Khost province, Afghanistan, Feb. 24, 2010. Lee, an aerial gunner, is assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 169 Aviation Regiment. Chinook helicopters are one of the primary air platforms for moving troops and supplies throughout Afghanistan. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Otero

Members of a Royal Thai Air Force parachute team and U.S. Air Force jumpmasters jump from the back of a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft as they conduct high-altitude low-observance jumps over a drop zone in Thailand March 3, 2010, during Cope Tiger 2010. The jump is the first major event starting Cope Tiger, which is an annual multilateral aerial large forces exercise conducted in the Asia-Pacific region that includes humanitarian and civic assistance programs. The parachute team will perform a static jump for the first time from a C-17 while 35 Thai airmen and U.S. Air Force jumpmasters will perform high-altitude low-observance jumps from the back of the aircraft. (DoD by Tech. Sgt. Cohen A. Young, U.S. Air Force/Released) via Flickr

A U.S. Soldier with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment covers his ear as a controlled detonation destroys an improvised explosive device during Operation Helmand Spider in Badula Qulp, Afghanistan, Feb. 23, 2010. (DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez, U.S. Air Force/Released) via Flickr

A prayer for Matthew

2010-03-03T05:12:00.001-08:00

Say a prayer for Matthew Schultz; then, say one for his family.

Matthew, nephew of local Marine Mom, Tina Fields, was recently injured in a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. No one is sure of his injuries yet, but he was able to make a call home to his parents in Texas.

General Petreus is predicting a long, hard road ahead for our troops in Afghanistan, which means a long, hard road for their families.

Those who have been drafted into the military family know that there is a support network out there for us if we need it—but you have to reach out; you have to speak up.

For some, comments on Facebook or brief conversations with friends are enough; for others, organizations like Manasota’s Operation Troop Support or Manatee Marine Moms are life-savers.

“To all the Marine Moms; thank you for all the prayers. I am Matthew’s Dad, (Tina's brother) I just wanted to thank you for the prayers for my son.” Via Facebook.

To know I am part of a community that truly cares for one another is uplifting and inspirational—a godsend in these trying times.

--Tiffany

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Sent in from the recent indigent services at Sarasota National Cemetery
for 2 WWII Veterans and 1 Korean War Veteran
by Terry Longpre:

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Our first ever!
Thanks for your hard work, Sgt!

Dispatch from photojournalist Sgt. Neil W. McCabe:
367th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
US Forces Division-South, Camp Basra, Iraq

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – Standing at a Navy UH-60 helicopter on the COB flight line, Navy Hospitalman Chief Petty Officer Curtis Trull Jr., instructed Iraqi Army medics Feb. 24 on medevac procedures. Trull, a San Antonio, Texas resident, assigned to the Navy's 2515th Air Ambulance Detachment here, was helping the 17th Fire’s Brigade improve the skill set of the IA medic corps.U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, 17th Fires Brigade PAO/Released

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq – Supporting the 17th Fires Brigade mission to train the Iraqi Army, Navy Hospitalman Chief Petty Officer Curtis Trull Jr., Feb. 24 shows IA medics equipment used by medevac aircrews to treat, monitor and stabilize patients in air transit. Trull, a San Antonio, Texas resident, is assigned to the Navy's 2515th Air Ambulance detachment here. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, 17th Fires Brigade PAO/Released

The 17th Fires Brigade, based at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Wash., is a field artillery brigade that traces its lineage back to America’s mobilization to the First World War. The brigade, combined with Navy Riverine Sailors and other Army elements, operates as Task Force Thunderbolt in Iraq’s Basra province. The men and women of the task force are dedicated to working by, with and through the Iraqi People as they build their new democracy.

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Around the military:

KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan - U.S. Army Spc. Brian E. King of Amhurst, Ohio, the forward observer for 2nd Platoon, Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, Task Force Lethal, conducts a patrol with his unit and Afghan National Army Soldiers in the Ghabalay Village area in eastern Afghanistan’s Kunar province, Feb. 16. International Security Assistance Forces commonly conduct operations in conjunction with Afghan National Security Forces. (Photo by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gary A. Witte, 300th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) board a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter before fast rope training aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is conducting spring patrol throughout the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson/Released)

U.S. Army soldiers walk down a steep, snowy, slope as part of a foot patrol in Sayed Abad district, Wardak province, Afghanistan, Feb. 19, 2010. Foot patrols are often used to talk to and check on the welfare of Afghan residents. The soldiers are assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest

"Hey Mom, I'm home."

2010-02-28T05:05:00.000-08:00

I plopped down on the side of the road, crossed my legs to get comfortable, and ignored the puzzled look of the subject I had been photographing for my assignment that day.

Holding up my ringing phone for the man to see, I told him, “My son is a Marine and he’s coming home today!”

For the first time since September, “Daniel” lit up the little window in my cell phone. I took a deep breath and flipped it open.

Weary from a 20 hour flight which had stopped in various random places to pick up, drop off or fuel up; Daniel was wandering around a small airport in Illinois, waiting for someone to tell them to climb aboard for the last leg of the trip to Miramar, California.

“Hey, Mom. I’m home.”

Those words warm the hearts of military families like nothing else can; they are the verbal affirmation that we can draw a deep breath and relax those invisible bands of stress that have been burrowing in our hearts for months. Whew.

Those minutes spent on the side of the road in Lake Manatee Park-- the sun warming my back and Daniel’s conversation warming my heart--were the best in recent memory. It only took a couple of minutes before his funny stories and sarcastic wit had me laughing like a loon.

There’s nothing better in this world than knowing that right at this moment, all the people you love are safe, secure, and happy—nothing better than that.

Welcome home, son.

--Tiffany

Cpl. Craft in Kuwait

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There will by two indigent services scheduled for 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 2 at the Sarasota National Cemetery for those who would like to attend. One is a WWII Vet and the other a Korea Vet.

For more information, contact:
Deborah Correll, Program Asst.
Sarasota National Cemetery
Toll Free: 877-861-9840
Local: 941-922-7200

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Military suicides are causing civilian casualties, too
Read more here from McClatchy:

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Around the military:

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpls. Daniel Garner (left) and Chris Ducharme, both with 3rd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, investigate a possible improvised explosive device while on a patrol in Marjah, Helmand province, Afghanistan, on Feb. 22, 2010. Marines and Afghan National Army soldiers patrolled through a residential area of the city to carry out counterinsurgency operations as part of Operation Moshtarak. DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde, U.S. Marine Corps. (Released)

U.S. Marines, bottom, talk to a British soldier near Marjah, Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2010. The Marines, assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and British soldiers are working together to clear the area of Taliban forces. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Albert F. Hunt

A U.S. Army soldier searches for enemy movement during Operation Moshtarak in Badula Qulp in Helmand province, Afghanistan, Feb. 19, 2010. The soldiers are assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez

Cowboy sings about 'What Heroes Do'

2010-02-24T04:29:00.001-08:00

He values faith, freedom and open spaces, says the eco-friendly, Prius-driving, singing cowboy, Bryan Ragsdale.

This former Navy gunner’s mate who spent 5 years chasing down narcotics smugglers is following his heart to sing about the most precious things in his life.

At his wife’s urging he quit his job, packed up his life, and went to Nashville. There, he found some industry folks who liked his music, but wanted him to write and sing more like others in the business—not an option for the man who says he wouldn’t play anything his grandmother wouldn’t like.

Now based out of his home in Wyoming, Ragsdale tours the country playing gigs large and small; from concerts to fairs to small-town schools.

One of his loves is teaching songwriting to children from a curriculum of his own devising. “I’ve written songs with kids about Harry Potter, Dr. Seuss, and ‘hangin’ with the homies.’ It’s exhilarating to be able to have this interaction with 5 year olds—they have the ability to express themselves and believe that anything is attainable.”

His first wife is a brain cancer survivor, and he credits his son, Austin, with keeping her alive. “He’s who I want to be when I grow up, he’s the greatest.”

One of Ragsdale’s newest songs was inspired by an exchange he had with his son. One morning, while watching cartoons together, Austin asked what makes a hero.

“A hero runs into a burning building, no matter how hard or scary it is, to save someone. A hero will face their fears to do what’s right.”

'What Heroes Do,' is a song born of that conversation with his then 5 year old son. It’s an ode to heroes, young and old, who climb the often rocky path of keeping the faith with their ideals and beliefs.

Ragsdale, husband to Coral and father of three—Austin, 14, Caleb, 8, and Jo, 13 months, wants to pay back the heroes with a free download of his song-'What Heroes Do.' Go to BryanRagsdale.com and go to downloads to get the song.

“This is not an easy life for families,” says Ragsdale of being a singer, “but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

--Tiffany

After interviewing Bryan over the phone, I asked if we could hear him play locally--maybe at Joyland one day--he laughed and answered “maybe so.”

Video: What Heroes Do

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There will be a service for William Hritisk,
US Navy, World War II Veteran on
Friday, February 26, 2010.
Sarasota National Cemetery

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A local Air Force grad:

Air Force Airman Stephen N. Cannon graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Gerald Cannon of Little Country Road, Parrish, Fla.

Cannon earned a bachelor's degree in 2008 from California State University, Long Beach.

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REMINDER:

Volunteers needed for the Sam's Club Food Drive of Bradenton this Friday and Saturday, 8am to 6pm. Contact Linda Craig at 518-8971.

Also, the MOTS OIF/OEF Children's Event this month is a boat fishing trip from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, March 6th, starting at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. Lunch is provided, a parent must attend to supervise, and an RSVP is required, 782-0748, the MOTS office. The fish are biting, so join us for a fun outing!

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Around the military:

Staff Sgt. Ryan Clay, left, the platoon sergeant for 3rd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Cpl. Anthony Deprimo, a squad leader with 3rd Platoon, study a map while on a patrol in Marjah, Helmand province, Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2010. The Marines of 3/6 and soldiers from the Afghan National Army patrolled through a residential area as part of Operation Moshtarak, a push to rid Marjah of Taliban presence and intimidation. (USMC photo by Lance Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde)

U.S. Soldiers with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment rest next to a canal during a patrol in Badula Qulp, Helmand province, Afghanistan, Feb. 17, 2010, during Operation Helmand Spider. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez/Released)

A U.S. Airman from the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron uses a mobile truck mounted deicer to apply deicing fluid to the tail of a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Feb. 22, 2010, in preparation for a mission. (DoD photo by Abner Guzman, U.S. Air Force/Released)

Farewell, Ezequiel; a final salute

2010-02-21T12:20:00.000-08:00

It was a most somber occasion. Hearts were heavy with shock and grief as family, friends and fellow Marines gathered at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Friday to honor a son; a brother, a comrade in arms.

Ezequiel was 20 years old when he left this world; but his sister, Carina Piovera, believes his work on earth was done.

“He was the youngest one, and he was the best one,” she said through tears at the podium.

Strait-backed Marines wiped their eyes as a family shared the love they had for Ezequiel. A cadre of Marines led Ezequiel’s casket down the aisle of the church and out the doors to a waiting hearse.

Marines and Sailors, friends of Ezequiel, bunched in the doorway as their friend was carried away from them; away to the Sarasota National Cemetery where Ezequiel was laid to rest with full military honors.

A final salute was the last goodbye from the 2/8 Weapons Co. gathered on the gentle slope beside his grave.

“Thank you for having respect for my little brother,” said Carina in the church, “my little Marine.”

--Tiffany

Click here for audio soundslide tribute to LCpl. Ezequiel Freire

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Coming soon: an interview with former Navy Gunner's Mate and cowboy singer Bryan Ragsdale. Hear how he was inspired to write his new song: "What heroes do."

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From Jim Knots of Operation Homefront:

Military Child Award Nominations Close February 25

Nominations close February 25 for the 2010 Military Child Award. The award recognize the service and sacrifices of the nation’s youngest heroes. Anyone can nominate a deserving child for the award, but the nominee must be enrolled in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS) and be between the ages of 8 and 18. The winner will receive $5,000 and will be flown with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C., for the award ceremony.

Go directly to https://eballot.votenet.com/operationhomefront/register, or to www.operationhomefront.net, to nominate children of both active duty and Guard/Reserve families. In addition to the financial award and travel expenses, meals and accommodations for two will also be provided.

“The sons and daughters of America’s service members learn what patriotism is at a very young age,” said Jim Knotts, chief operating officer, Operation Homefront. “Children in military families understand sacrifice and live with the concept of service. This is what the Military Child Award honors.”

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Around the military:

U.S. Army paratroopers exit a C-130 aircraft over Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2010, as part of the largest airborne exercise conducted by U.S. forces in Iraq since the beginning of the war. The soldiers are assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Brigade, an Advise and Assist Brigade. A jumper’s parachute is opened by the yellow universal static line seen here along the fuselage of the aircraft. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael J. MacLeod

Three U.S. Army paratroopers walk off a drop zone near Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2010, as part of a training exercise they hope will lead to combined U.S. – Iraqi training jumps and an enduring strategic partnership. For security, an AH-64 Apache helicopter flies along the drop zone perimeter. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael J. MacLeod

U.S. Navy sailors man the rails as the guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook returns to Naval Station Norfolk following a seven-month deployment, Norfolk, Va., Feb. 18, 2010. The Donald Cook was deployed to the 6th Fleet area of responsibility for regional exercises with allies. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Scott B. Boyle

Beware of stolen valor

2010-02-17T05:18:00.001-08:00

They’re out there--and they’re counting on our kindness and appreciation to take advantage of us.

Fake veterans.

“He looks like a soldier. He says he's a soldier. But he's not a soldier. And now he is facing charges for lying about his resume. When we started asking questions, so did the FBI,” writes Kevin Quinn.

Michael McManus, dripping with unearned medals and wearing a uniform and a soul patch, was a glory hound, and he was arrested by the Feds for it. There are fakers for money, food, lodging—fakers for ‘stuff.’ Resources are available for those who need it—but not for a lie.

It’s a shame. There are veterans and retired service members that truly need a hand in times of difficulty, and they deserve it. But there are unsavory characters out there that are willing to manipulate our feelings of generosity for pure selfishness.

Most real veterans and retired service members have a valid military i.d. and will be able to tell you their job specialty, where they graduated boot camp, even recite the Rifleman’s Creed.

I don’t want to close my heart to anyone in need, but I don’t want to base my urges on a lie, either.

Don’t let liars steal our real heroes’ valor—ask questions.

--Tiffany

Read about the Stolen Valor Act of 2005

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Around the military:

U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers take cover in a shallow canal after recieving fire in the city of Marja in Helmand province, Afghanistan, Feb, 13, 2010. U.S. Marines Corps photo by Lance Cpl. James Clark

A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress aircraft from the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron leads a formation of two F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron, two Japanese Air Self-Defense Force F-2 attack fighters from the 6th Tactical Fighter Squadron, two U.S. Navy EA-6B Prowler aircraft from Electronic Attack Squadron 136 and a Japanese E-2C Hawkeye aircraft from 601st Squadron on a flight over Guam during exercise Cope North Feb. 15, 2010. The U.S. Air Force and the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force conduct Cope North annually at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to increase combat readiness and interoperability, concentrating on coordination and evaluation of air tactics, techniques and procedures. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob N. Bailey, U.S. Air Force/Released) via Flickr

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Morgan Boyd, with 8th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, meets with shop owners in a bazaar in Hutal, Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Dayton Mitchell/Released) via Flickr

Military Valentines: serving with love

2010-02-14T05:13:00.000-08:00

Daniel and his Valentine are far apart today; but I know they are thinking of each other and longing to be together.

Soon enough, Daniel will be home from his second deployment and they can continue on in their journey as a married couple.

It must be incredibly taxing to live two such completely different lives; one with your spouse at home as a couple; the other, alone through deployments and training missions.

Thankfully they are both so committed to their marriage that the emotional adjustments of departures and homecomings may be nothing more than a temporary inconvenience—like getting your sea legs when you board a ship.

To all the military couples out there, Happy Valentine’s day! May your love survive, thrive and grow throughout the years.

--Tiffany

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Find out about our military Olympians:

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Check out this out:

30 Days in Afghanistan

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via T.A.M.P.A.:
Marine William Levy/Iwo Jima fighter - Special Ceremony

At 10 a.m. on Friday, February 19, 2010, the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, the Marine Corps League will pay tribute to former Marine William Levy in a graveside ceremony at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, Clearwater, FL.

Mr. Levy fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima and was present at the raising of the United States flag on February 23, 1945 on Mount Suribachi.

Levy died on January 19, 2010 and his wife was not aware that he was entitled to a military funeral. After his friend, Roy Schaffer (former USN) of Palm Coast, attended the funeral, he was determined to recognize Levy for his service. After making some phone calls, the military service was arranged, fittingly, on the 65th anniversary of the beginning of the famous battle in which Levy fought.

Please help us honor this brave Marine as we celebrate his life and salute his service.

Semper Fi

For more information, call:
(727)785-6878
Bill Cona
Marine Corps League
Commandant Det #54-
Vice Commandant District #7
MODD- Pound 79-Pound Keeper
"Once a Marine , always a Marine."

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Volunteer Opportunities from Manasota's Operation Troop Support's
Linda Craig:

The Anna Maria Island Friday Fest has invited MOTS back on February19th, from 3pm to 10pm. That is a Friday. Volunteers are needed, evenif you only have an hour to spare! It will be held on Pine Avenue, at the end of Anna Maria Island. Parking can be difficult but the easiest thing to do is park at the public beach lot at the end of Manatee Avenue and take the free trolley to the event. We will have a mail call tent and postage donations, just as before. Food vendors, crafts, and three live bands wil make it a fun event to work. Please call Linda at 518-8971 to volunteer. Our last event there netted about $300 towards postage and around 200+ pieces of mail for our troops. As of today, we have 62 troops deployed.

The next Shop For the Troops food drive will be held again at Sam's Club on February 26th from 12pm to 6pm and February 27th, from 8pm to 5pm. That is the Bradenton Sam's Club off of 301, across the street from Walmart. You may have seen the photo in the Bradenton Herald about
the one held on January 29th. It was a great success with 9 volunteers, $1200 in product collected for the troops and $275 dollars donated for postage. With 72 packages being mailed last month it was a great boon for our pantry and our postage fund! We will need volunteers again for
this event. Call Linda Craig at 518-8971 to volunteer. Even just for an hour or two!
Thank You!

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The RecruitMilitary Opportunity Expo will take place on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at:
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Tampa, FL 33602
11AM to 3PM

Over 300 veterans are expected to attend this special event intended to help our recently returning troops and other veterans and service members, and their spouses with employment, entrepreneurship, and educational opportunities.

If you have any questions or require more info -- please email me or give me a call at 513-683-5020.

Please do what you can to support our local veterans and to thank them for their service.

Thank you,

Karen Galvin
karen@recruitmilitary.com

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Spc. Jesus B. Fernandez crosses a stream during a unit visit to Angla Kala village in Afghanistan's Kunar province, Feb. 6, 2010. International Security Assistance Force troops regularly meet with village elders to improve communications between residents and government officials. Fernandez is an assistant team leader assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team.U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Gary A. Witte

U.S. Army Sgt. John Newcomb passes out blankets to Afghans in the Salang district of Afghanistan in the wake of an avalanche, Feb. 10, 2010. Newcomb is assigned to the 410th Military Police Company from Fort Hood, Texas. International Security Assistance Forces have been working to help avalanche victims.U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Horace Murray

From left to right, U.S. Marine Cpl. Adam C. Thompson, Sgt. Jorge A. Lopez, and Sgt. Sgt. Jonathan J. Sanabria take a moment to eat before departing for their mission to seize intersections of key roads linking the Taliban stronghold in the Marja area with the rest of Helmand province, Marja, Afghanistan, Feb. 9, 2010.U.S. Marine photo by Lance Cpl. Walter Marino

Ooh-rah Mamas

2010-02-10T04:27:00.001-08:00

I was not going to miss one more Marine Mom meeting.

The Moms meet on the second Monday of every month, and events conspired to keep me away for too long; I needed a fellow mom fix.

I was happy as I pulled up to the house and was waved into a spot on the lawn decorated with Marine Corps flags. I opened the front door to a room full of shouted greetings and warm smiles.

Singing, laughing, praying, and yup — a bit of bitching, too. The details will remain private—“What happens at Marine Moms, stays at Marine Moms.”—but just imagine a group of women with a whole lot in common and a bit of the grape thrown in.

Graduations, babies, homecomings, scary stories and funny stories — it’s about sharing and listening.

“Our sons signed up, but we were drafted,” laughed one mom.

Absolutely. But we are the mothers of Marines — how do you think they got that tough?

That’s right…their moms.

Semper Fi!

--Tiffany

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Around the military:

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Tyler Woodard, assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), swings beside a Haitian girl at the Heart to Heart orphanage in Grand Goave, Haiti, Feb. 1, 2010. The Department of Defense and the U.S. Agency for International Development are in Haiti supporting Operation Unified Response, a multinational, joint-service operation to provide humanitarian assistance to Haitians affected by the 7.0-magnitude earthquake that struck the region Jan. 12, 2010. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Samantha Robinett, U.S. Navy/Released)

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Blake holds a newborn baby aboard the USNS Comfort in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 28, 2010. Blake assisted in resuscitating the baby moments after it was born earlier in the week. The Comfort is participating in Operation Unified Response, providing medical care to Haiti earthquake victims.
U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Kennedy

Sailors from Assault Craft Unit 2, Amphibious Construction Battalion 2, and USS Gunston Hall move a stretcher carrying a Haitian woman returning home after being medically treated on the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort at Killick Haitian Coast Guard Base. All three commands are taking part in Haitian relief efforts as part of Operation Unified Response.

Super Bowl-Snowpocalypse Sunday

2010-02-07T04:15:00.000-08:00

Snowpocalypse! Winter Powerhouse! Snowmageddon!

While we’re preoccupied with the white stuff falling in copious amounts around the country, folks in the military are worried about a whole different kind of stuff raining down on them.

They may be dodging rubble in Haiti, or freezing rain in Afghanistan while some are peppered with a possibility of other potentially fatal falling objects.

One thing we will share today; Super Bowl fever.

Troops around the world will have the opportunity to watch the Super Bowl live, with one big change—no commercials!

"The only thing the overseas viewers won’t get will be about 43 minutes of mostly beer, pizza and insurance commercials. That, explained Sichter, is because AFN (American Forces Network) is not permitted to air them as a condition of getting the programming free of charge. So in their place, military viewers overseas will see a bevy of encouraging “shout-outs” from President Barack Obama, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and many of the players themselves, as well as some of AFRTS’ newest command information spots."

No offense, but that doesn’t sound as entertaining as all the commercials that, truth be told, I enjoy more than the football.

So, troops will gather with their brothers-at-arms and near-beer and root for the team of their choice; maybe forgetting, for a little while, the dangers they face.

Here in my living room, I’ll be cheering for the home team—team USA.

--Tiffany

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Sent in from Terry Longpre:

"Semper Fi Marine and may you rest in peace."--funeral for
Sgt. Daniel Angus

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Admiral Mike Mullen discusses his views on his blog. What do you think?

Chairman’s Corner: My View on Don’t Ask Don’t Tell
Admiral Mike Mullen

"My personal belief is that allowing homosexuals to serve openly would be the right thing to do. I cannot escape being troubled by the fact that we have in place a policy which forces young men and women to lie about who they are in order to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it comes down to integrity — theirs as individuals and ours as an institution."

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Around the military:

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Peter Sansone, center, tosses aside rubble as Seaman Travis Sawicki and Petty Officer 3rd Class Isabel Pericon sift through debris during a clean up of an outdoor classroom at the Lifeline Christian Ministries Mission in Grand-Goave, Haiti, Jan. 29, 2010. Sansone, Sawicki and Pericon are assigned to the USS Bataan. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson

Cpl. Thomas Bradley, with Combat Engineer Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, shelters himself from a bangalore’s explosion behind a berm while counting down on his watch here Jan. 14. Bangalores are used to detonate land mines or to clear a path through barbed wire.photo by Cpl. Shawn M. Spitler

As seen through a night-vision device, an Afghan soldier provides security as U.S. soldiers search multiple caves for weapons during Operation Wawraa Tufaan in Zanbar province, Afghanistan, Jan. 31, 2010. The U.S. soldiers are assigned to the 25th Infantry Division's Company D, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team.
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jeffrey Alexander

Cartwheels in Heaven with Jesus

2010-02-03T04:48:00.001-08:00

When the children were babies, I used to tell her with ridiculous certainty that I didn’t believe in spankings. She would just giggle and shake her head with a demure smile.

She knew I didn’t have the faintest clue about raising children, but she never criticized me—she taught by example. She used to tuck a five or ten dollar bill into my pocket, or put a casserole dish into my hands, or loan me any other thing we were in need of when the children were small.

She was a true, decent Southern lady. She loved Jesus, her family, and everyone else.

Every summer she would pack up my kids in her car with whoever else was going along and disappear into the hills of North Carolina for a couple of weeks.

When Daniel joined the Marine Corps, she was so proud; and when he got married, nothing could keep her from the ceremony--not even extreme pain from recent surgery.

Monday afternoon, I had to write a painful letter to Daniel:

"Daniel,
I’m so sorry to tell you, Grandma just passed on. In Aunt Dana’s words, “she’s doing cartwheels in Heaven with Jesus.” I love you and wish you could be here."

Friday my ex-husband and his family will celebrate her life. They have been so gracious and loving and have kept me involved and let me spend some precious time with her recently.

I can take some solace in knowing that my children have learned many important lessons from her; a bit of Veloxy will live on in them.

God bless Veloxy; we miss you already.

--Tiffany

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Honor Escort Set For Fallen Hero:

The public will have an opportunity to pay its respects to U.S. Marine
Corps Sgt. Daniel Angus and his family.

Fallen Hero Daniel Angus will be escorted from MacDill Air Force Base to Serenity Meadows Funeral Home in Riverview on Thursday, February 4,
2010. The escort will begin around 2:30 p.m. The escort route will afford the public the chance to pay its respects to Sgt. Angus, who was killed in combat in Afghanistan.

Here is the escort route:
From MacDill Air Force Base/Bayshore Gate to Bayshore Boulevard, across
the Platt Street Bridge to North on Florida Avenue, to East on Jackson
Street, to North on Jefferson Street, to East on Twiggs Street, to Channelside Drive, to
East on State Road 60, to South on Kings Avenue, to West on Lumsden
Road, to South on Providence Road to Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, 6919
Providence Road.

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Welcome Home,
PFC Michael Araujo!

Terry Longpre and his PGR Riders escorted this wounded warrior home from the VA Hospital:

PFC Michael Araujo He was wounded in Afghanistan by a IED Oct 16th and he then went to Walter Reed Hospital.

He Lost his Left Leg Above the Knee and his Right Foot was major Wounded the reconstructed his right foot which is still going on. He also had many more injuries.

He was transfered to Tampa VA Hospital on Jan 15th on a program that being wounded soldier closer to home for recovery.

Michael's dad has requested our support on this welcome home ride.

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In Remembrance:

To attend a funeral service for an indigent servicemember, or someone with no local family, there are two on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 10:00 a.m. for more information, contact:

Deborah Correll, Program Asst.

Sarasota National Cemetery

Toll Free: 877-861-9840

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Around the military:

U.S. Army soldiers have a snowball fight the day after a night of snow, at Forward Operating Base Blessing, in the Pech Valley, Kunar province, northeastern Afghanistan, Friday Jan. 29, 2010. (AP)

U.S. Special Forces dismount from a U. S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter while executing a pinnacle landing on a mountain peak to disrupt insurgent communications in Zabul province, Afghanistan, Jan. 21, 2010. The Black Hawk crew is assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 82nd Aviation Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade.U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Aubree Clute

U.S. Army soldiers of hold a memorial service on Camp Shelby, Hattiesburg, Miss., Jan. 28, 2010, to honor 14 fallen comrades who gave their lives while serving in Iraq in 2004 to 2005. The ceremony included the unveiling of a granite monument to the fallen heroes of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Tennessee Army National Guard.
U.S.Army Staff Sgt. Russell Lee Klika

Inspired care packages...any ideas?

2010-01-31T06:12:00.000-08:00

The dog days of deployment.

Past the halfway mark, but not close enough to homecoming to start planning any visits. Even when I do have a return date, those plane tickets better be changeable; the military loves to throw curveballs at the last minute.

This is when the care packages start to feel obligatory. Not that I don’t want to send great stuff; I’ve just exhausted the fake mustache/easy button that spouts bad language/do-it-yourself S'mores creative juices.

Ideas! I need ideas to round out this deployment on a high note!

Hmmm…

It’ll come to me, the perfect care package idea. Until then, feel free to help me out with your great ideas!

Please keep praying for our troops and their safe return.

--Tiffany

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Congratulations, local Parris Island grad!

Sent in from a proud parent of a brand-new Marine: My son graduated from Parris Island boot camp on Jan. 15-2010. His name is P.F.C. Matthew Haynes. He will be heading to Camp Geiger for infantry training in feb. He is a graduate of Manatee High School in 2007.

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Congratulations, local Air Force grad!

Air Force Airman Cole M. Lumadue graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Cameron Liggins of Harvard Ave., Bradenton, Fla.

Lumadue is a 2009 graduate of Horizons Academy, Bradenton.

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Great job!

Manasota's Operation Troop Support had a very successful day of gathering supplies for the troops at Sam's Club on Friday. Become a fan on their Facebook page here. Here are some photos by Terry Longpre and Linda Craig:

Cindi Wertz, Terry Longpre and director of MOTS, Terry Bibbins.

Folks donate supplies.

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Congratulations to Restrepo!
The documentary won the grand jury prize at the Sundance Festival:

"Accepting the Grand Jury Prize: Documentary for Restrepo, veteran journalists and first-time filmmakers Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington honored both their immediate subjects – the soldiers they filmed in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley – and others who’ve fought overseas. "I’d like to dedicate the prize to the Restrepo generation," Hetherington said, "and to the hundreds of thousands of men and women who come back after serving this country and are invisible."

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Around the military:

Staff Sgt. Steven Pearsoll from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, hands out rations at a distribution site in Petit Goave, Haiti, Jan. 26. In response to a devastating earthquake, which struck the country of Haiti, Marines and Sailors of the 22nd MEU began to deliver relief supplies and provide medical aid in support of Operation Unified Response, Jan. 19.photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie

Haitian evacuees wait to board a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at the Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 28, 2010. More than 100 Haitians were evacuated to a transition center in Orlando, Fla. U.S. Defense Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development are conducting the operation to provide aid and relief to Haitian citizens. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Clay Lancaster

The fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn pulls alongside the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson during a connected replenishment in the Atlantic Ocean, Jan. 27, 2010. The Carl Vinson is supporting humanitarian and disaster relief operations in Haiti following a devastating earthquake. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Barker

Pray for the ones the heroes left behind

2010-01-27T04:25:00.000-08:00

Another one, gone. A father, brother, friend, son.

“The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Sgt. Daniel M. Angus, 28, of Thonotosassa, Fla. died Jan. 24 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Angus was assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.”

In an online guestbook, Sgt. Rodriguez of Riverview posted a poem -- John Donne’s “Death, be not proud.”

Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou are not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
From rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be,
Much pleasure; then from thee much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee do go,
Rest of their bones, and soul's delivery.
Thou'art slave to fate, chance, kings, and desperate men,
And dost with poison, war, and sickness dwell,
And poppy'or charms can make us sleep as well
And better than thy stroke; why swell'st thou then?
One short sleep past, we wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die--John Donne

The important things he left behind -- the ones he loved and the ones whose love will keep his memory alive — they will be in our prayers along with this brave Marine.

God bless Sgt. Daniel Angus Jr.

--Tiffany

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In Remembrance:

David A. Croft Jr.

Spc. David A. Croft Jr., 22, of Plant City, Fla., died Jan. 5 in Baghdad, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

Patriot Guard Rider and MOT's volunteer Terry Longpre participated in the final salute and farewell to brave hero Spc. David Croft, who was recently laid to rest. Below are some photos provided by Terry:

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Spc. Isaac Danner re-enlists aboard an Iraqi Department of Border Enforcement patrol boat in southern Maysan province, Jan. 9, 2010. He is an indirect fire infantryman assigned to the 2nd Squadron 13th Cavalry Regiment. "I wanted the ceremony to be a joint effort with the people I see every day and built relationships with," said Danner. "That's
why we're here anyway, right?" U.S. Army photo

A U.S. Navy sailor assigned to the USS Normandy carries a Haitian child during a site assessment in Petit-Trou-de-Nippes, Haiti, Jan. 23, 2010. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Barker

Members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) walk to their aircraft at Homestead Air Force Base in Miami, Fla., Jan. 23, 2010. The JASDF members will be dropping off Japan Ground Self-Defense Force personnel, who are part of a medical support team that will help injured earthquake survivors in Haiti. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Greg C.Biondo/Released) via flickr

Choosing a useful life

2010-01-24T05:11:00.000-08:00

Imagine: a soldier carrying a large gun, hand encased in a glove, tenderly holds the hand of a small child. A visual dichotomy--but it is the epitome of the modern American warrior.

Battle-trained and hardened; our warriors embody the definition of humanitarian as well: committed to improving the lives of other people, compassionate, caring, and gentle.

The inner strength of these men and women who fight our battles and respond to the scenes of disaster at a moment’s notice must be immeasurable.

They live a life composed of incredible extremes--our sons and daughters--and every day they make a difference.

“Do nothing which is of no use.” Miyamoto Musashi, Japanese Martial Arts master, 1584-1645

Words to live by.

--Tiffany

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Restrepo

“You may think you have seen war docs before, but you’ve never quite seen anything like this. This film should be required viewing for anyone with a personal stake in the war in Afghanistan, which is everyone. You will laugh, cry, and sweat bullets, in real time, alongside the young men of the Second Platoon, Battle Company, 173rd Airborne Brigade.”--Seth Abramovich

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Congratulations local Air Force grads!

Air Force Airman Chris M. Russo graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Sara Russo of Highland Shores Drive, Ellenton, Fla.

Russo is a 2009 graduate of Lakewood Ranch High School, Bradenton, Fla

Air Force Airman 1st Class Dakota V. Slentz graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Charles and Connie Hoefling of Eighth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, Fla.

Slentz graduated in 2006 from the Bradenton Christian School, and received an associate degree in 2008 from Manatee Community College, Bradenton.

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From Very Proud Marine Mom, Cynthia: please help the Special Olympics:

Hi there Marine Moms- My son Jason has sent me this email and asked that I forward it on to you. Since the issues he and Kelly faced when their son Aidan was born 2 years ago as a 3lb preemie @ Bethesda Naval Hospital, the Special Olympics has become close to their hearts. Please don't feel obligated to contribute, but if you can help with a small amount to the cause, even $1.00, I know it would be greatly appreciated. I'll let you know how Jason's icy plunge goes. Hope he sends me some pictures! Thanks for your help, VPMM Cynthia-

Dear family and friends,

I am writing to ask for your help. On January 30, 2010, I will be participating in a "Polar Bear Plunge" into the Chesapeake Bay alongside 12,000 other warm-hearted people in order to raise money for the Special Olympics Maryland.

I checked the water temperatures today, and I will be plunging into 37 degree water. While the cold I feel will be temporary, the positive impact this will have on the lives of thousands with intellectual disabilities will last a lifetime.

I have set a personal fundraising goal, and I need your help to reach it! So no, I'm not asking you to take the Plunge alongside, but instead, I am asking if you will make a donation to Special Olympics Maryland on behalf of me taking the 2010 MSP Plunge. Any amount would be appreciated – it all goes to a wonderful cause, and every little bit gets me that much closer to my goal.

If you would like to help, please go to http://plungemd.kintera.org/jasonmitchell and donate online. It is a secure website and every little bit counts. If you want to learn more about this event, visit www.plungemd.com to find out all the chilly details. And, if you feel they would be interested, please feel free to forward this effort to your family and friends.

Think warm thoughts for me as January 30th approaches. I will do my best to “Be the Bear” and make my supporters proud! Thanks everyone!!.

Jason

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Around the military:

A boy holds the hand of a soldier from the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, as they walk through a survivor camp in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 21, 2010. The soldiers are visiting the camps to locate and help people who are injured but cannot make it to the medical station at the temporary forward operating base nearby. DoD photo by Fred W. Baker III

U.S. Army soldiers and medical professionals from other relief organizations walk through the survivor camp at the foot of their forward operating base in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 21, 2010. The soldiers are assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Squadron. DoD photo by Fred W. Baker III

Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit carry bottles of water to load onto a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan. Bataan, along with amphibious dock landing ships USS Fort McHenry, USS Gunston Hall and USS Carter Hall are participating in Operation Unified Response and are providing military support capabilities to civil authorities to help stabilize and improve the situation in Haiti in the wake of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake on Jan. 12. (U.S. Navy photo/Petty Officer 2nd Class Julio Rivera)

Our mightiest efforts for the people of Haiti

2010-01-20T05:03:00.000-08:00

The men and women of the U. S. military are fighting a war on terror; there is no break from that. Now, they've been asked to step it up and provide aid, supplies, and medical care for thousands of earthquake victims in Haiti--all while providing the basic necessities and support for the providers as well. Here’s some of the major support the military is providing, via the DoD’s Haiti support website:

The USS Carl Vinson:
Floating airfield
19 heavy lift helicopters conducting support missions
Delivering 30 pallets of relief supplies
51 onboard hospital beds

The USS Higgins:
Airlift support and humanitarian relief

The USS Comfort:
250-bed floating hospital
550-medical professionals
Advanced medical treatment facilities
Helicopter deck

The 82nd Airborne Division
3,500 paratroopers began arriving Jan. 14
Distributing humanitarian aid
Supporting search and rescue
Providing security support

The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit
2000 Marines
This unit includes the USS Bataan, USS Fort McHenry, and USS Carter Hall
Support humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, and security

The USS Bataan:
Lead amphibious ship transporting Marine forces
Transiting with USS Fort McHenry and USS Carter Hall
Carrying heavy-lift and earth-moving equipment, medical supplies

C-17 Globemaster III
Providing continual deliveries of troops and aid
Made first deliveries Jan. 14

C-130 Hercules
Delivered first 6 tons of cargo, vehicles and equipment Jan. 13
Providing continual deliveries of troops and aid

The outpouring of help and assistance from around the world has been massive. Our nation's citizens, aid and relief groups as well as our military are putting forth their mightiest effort; their heart is in this one hundred percent. I would expect nothing less.

--Tiffany

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Local Air Force Grad!

Air Force Airman Charlie Otero graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Alida Colone of Noble Place, Parrish, Fla., and Charlie Otero of Stillman Ave., Danbury, Conn.

Otero is a 2009 graduate of Braden River High School, Bradenton, Fla.

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Around the military:

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Antonio Seisdedos, left, and Seaman Apprentice Chloe Hicks, center, help a Haitian girl put in ear plugs before loading her into a Dolphin rescue helicopter for transport to an area hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 18, 2010. Seisdedos helped the crew communicate with the patients by translating for them, explaining what the crew was doing and asking if the patients were comfortable. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Etta Smith

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Harold transfers a young Haitian from an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter during a medical evacuation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 16, 2010. The USS Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing 17 are conducting humanitarian and disaster relief operations as part of Operation Unified Response after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake devastated the nation. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Candice Villarreal

BONEL, Haiti (Jan. 19, 2010) A Haitian boy watches as rigid-hull inflatable boats from the amphibious dock landing ships USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) arrive ashore at the New Hope Mission at Bonel, Haiti. The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) is on station in Haiti with the amphibious dock landing ships USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), and USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) supporting Operation Unified Response, a joint humanitarian assistance mission to Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude on Jan. 12. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson/Released)

These patriots keep on giving

2010-01-17T05:18:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of spending an hour Saturday at the Kirby-Stewart American Legion Post 24.

I can always count on a warm welcome and hugs from my buddies in the color guard, who can be spotted at events all around the county.

It was a special occasion as the Riverview chapter of Rolling Thunder was on hand to recognize the service of veterans who had been held as prisoners of war in three different wars.

After the presentation, Sherrie Lynn Thomas, dressed prettily in red, white and blue, pressed something into my hand as she explained: Her husband, Drew, an Air Force veteran of 20 years including a stint on Air Force One, had written, played and recorded a song called “Where footsteps cause no sound.”

I thanked her as I looked down at the CD in my hand.

Visits here always leave me a bit emotionally unsettled; I can’t believe these folks -- who have given so much for their country -- can still find more to give.

That’s what sets them apart — duty, honor and a sincere, unselfish love for their country.

--Tiffany

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Read about some true Patriots in
the Bradenton Herald:

TIFFANY TOMPKINS-CONDIE/ttompkins@bradenton.com
In a POW Appreciation Ceremony at the Kirby-Stewart American Legion Post 24, ex-POW's Cpl. Richard Caverly, Cmdr. Brad Smith, and Cpl. Robert Eldridge stand at attention while they are honored for their extraordinary service.

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Upcoming events for Manasota Operation Troop Support:

· January 21 @ 7:00 PM, OEF/OIF Veterans Group Meeting at MOTS Heaquarters, 4301 32nd Street W., Lakewood Business Park, Suite C-20

· January 26 @ 7:00 PM, Military Support Group Meeting at MOTS Heaquarters, 4301 32nd Street W., Lakewood Business Park, Suite C-20.

· January 29, Snack Drive @ SAM's Club, Noon till 6:00. To volunteer, call Linda Craig, 518- 8971.

· January 30, January Children's Event @ Jungle Gardens, Sarasota. Contact Pat to attend, 782-0748 or advocate1@motsonline.org.

· January 30 @ 12 Noon, VFW 9226 Ladies Aux 2nd Annual M*A*S*H* Party.

· January 31, 2010 ELK's “Army of Hope” Picnic at their South Sarasota Lodge (off of Clark Road), $20/person. Proceeds are used to help OEF/OIF Veterans in need as well as send the children of deployed troops to summer camp.

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Around the military:

Members of Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue from Virginia coordinate operations during a search for earthquake victims at the Montana Hotel in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 14, 2010. U.S. Navy Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Joshua Lee Kelsey

U.S. citizens evacuate from Toussaint Louveture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Jan. 15, 2010. The evacuees were flown out on a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from Dover Air Force Base, Del. Haiti was struck by an earthquake Jan. 12, 2010, that leveled much of the country's infrastructure. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Russell E. Cooley IV/Released)

Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) embark aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during preparations by the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission for a disaster response to the nation of Haiti. Bataan departed Naval Station Norfolk to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster response in the aftermath of Haiti's devastating earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson/Released)

Support the home team!

2010-01-13T04:35:00.001-08:00

Hey folks, it’s always a good time to show your support of the local troops, and there’s a perfect opportunity coming up.

Linda Craig of Manasota’s Operation Troop Support sent out this notice with the details:

“With 60 troops deployed from our area, this month MOTS needs to restock the pantry for the monthly mailing of snack packs. Sam’s Club of Bradenton, at 5300 30th Street East, is hosting a Manasota Operation Troop Support Snack Pack Food Drive on Friday, January 29th from noon until 6:00 PM.

MOTS volunteers will be at the entrance to pass out ‘Shop for Our Troops’ shopping lists to Sam’s Club customers. The list shows what the Troops are asking for in the way of snacks, drink mixes and personal items. With bins right outside the door to drop the goodies, and the assurance that MOTS will personally pack and mail these items to our local troops, we will give our friends and neighbors an easy way to make a big difference. With just a little bit extra thrown into their shopping cart that day, our community can reach out to our military that are far from home and in harm’s way. Thank You Sam’s Club for inviting us!"

Thank you Linda, MOTS, and Sam’s for the wonderful support!

--Tiffany

If you would like to be a Volunteer at this event, call Linda Craig at 941-518-8971, or email wordartist55@aol.com.

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Local son is named U.S. Army Europe Junior Chef of the Year!

Proud mom Diana Easton sent us this wonderful news about her son, Matthew Hendricks:

Specialist Matthew Hendriks, with the 28th Transportation Battalion US Army stationed in Germany, was named U.S. Army Europe Junior Chef of the Year and will compete in five events at the 34th Annual U.S. Army Culinary Arts competition in Virginia in March. Matthew is married with two children to Jennifer, daughter of Joe and Maggie Stoddard, Bradenton and son of Diana Easton of Bradenton. Congrats Matthew, we are proud of you! Thanks for serving!

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Little Andreanna Craig visits with her deployed soldier father, Andrew, via video:

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The Warrior Song:

This video/song has been making the facebook/email rounds lately. If you purchase the song via iTunes, the proceeds benefit Armed Forces Relief Trust. If you like gung-ho lyrics with a strong beat, this song's for you! The download is free to members of the U.S. Military:

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Around the military:

The HC-130P/N, an extended-range version of the C-130 Hercules transport, flies over Afghanistan, Jan 8, 2010. Its mission is to extend the range of combat search and rescue helicopters by providing air refueling in hostile or contested airspace if required. U.S. Air Force photo

A UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter swiftly departs the flight line during dusk on Camp Taji, Iraq, Jan. 11, 2010. The helicopter is assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division's 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, which conducts aviation operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to support U.S. and Iraqi forces. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Travis Zielinski

The guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) patrols the Gulf of Aden Jan. 1, 2010. Chosin is the flagship of Combined Task Force 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Edgington, U.S. Navy/Released) via flickr

Celebrate the heroes

2010-01-10T06:57:00.000-08:00

Korea, Vietnam, Germany.

Places our troops fought, died, and were held as prisoners.

Saturday, Jan. 16, three men from three separate wars will be honored in a special ceremony. Major-Generals with distinguished careers will present these heroes with medals and proclamations acknowledging their extraordinary service to our country. A motorcycle group that advocates for POW/MIA issues -- Rolling Thunder -- will also attend.

One of the honorees, Edward Dostie, is the vice commander of a group of veterans who were held in stalag 17b. Read about the conditions of the camp here.

Come out next Saturday to support these brave men — men who suffered, endured, and paid for our freedoms.

Let’s celebrate their valor and courage.

--Tiffany

POW Appreciation Ceremony
Kirby-Stewart Post 24
2000 75th Street West
Bradenton, Florida, 34209
Saturday, January 16, 2010, 2 p.m.

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Remembering the Fallen:

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. David A. Croft Jr., 22, of Plant City, Fla., died Jan. 5 in Baghdad, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

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Local Air Force Grads:

Air Force Airman Kristopher L. Tice graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Tice is the son of Alicia Tice of 17th Ave. W., Palmetto, Fla.

The airman is a 2009 graduate of Palmetto High School.

Air Force Reserve Airman 1st Class Garry D. Montague Jr. graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Garry Montague Sr. of 69th St. E., Palmetto, Fla.

Montague is a 2008 graduate of Braden River High School, Bradenton, Fla.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Cameron M. Flotow graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included
training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical
fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an
associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air
Force.

He is the son of Heather Flotow of Hannah Drive, Rock Hill, S.C., and Michael Flotow of Riverview Blvd., Bradenton, Fla.

The airman is a 2009 graduate of Northwestern High School, Rock Hill.

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Watch a DoD special about the Marine Sentries at the White House:

_________

Around the military:

A family cries while watching the departure of the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team depart after their deployment ceremony in Burlington, Vt., Jan. 8, 2010. The unit has been ordered to Afghanistan in the largest deployment of Vermont National Guard troops since World War II. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

A U.S. Marine fire team advances towards an enemy position after receiving simulated enemy contact during a training exercise on Camp Dwyer, Afghanistan, Jan. 2, 2010. The Marines ran an attack course focused on the positive identification of targets and precision fires to reduce the risk of civilian causalities during future operations. The fire team is assigned to Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. James W. Clark

A young boy watches soldiers of the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team depart after their deployment ceremony in Burlington, Vt., Jan. 8, 2010. The unit has been ordered to Afghanistan in the largest deployment of Vermont National Guard troops since World War II. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

Marine Corps: round two!

2010-01-06T04:20:00.000-08:00

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”

He did it again!

According to various sources, a reenlistment for a Marine pretty much says “career Marine.”

I’m not surprised, at all. Daniel loves the Marines-- even when he gripes—and believe me, pretty much all Marines and Soldiers gripe, it’s a sub-specialty of theirs. But it completely belies the fact that they love their country and what they do.

I got a little lump in my throat when I saw the grainy pictures of Daniel raising his hand in the bowels of his ship, swearing an oath to defend his country.

Not glamorous. Not exciting. But honorable; indeed.

--Tiffany

Guess who?

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45 Reasons to re-enlist

36. Because only during magic shows and military working hours are the rules of logic suspended.

click here for more

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Around the military:

U.S. Army Pfc.Tobie Cable trains on Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Hattiesburg, Miss., Dec. 12, 2009. Cable is assigned to Regimental Higher Headquarters Troop, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Tennessee Army National Guard. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Russell Lee Klika

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Stephen Goodman and Capt. Robert Wilson perform a high-altitude, low-opening jump over Le Shima Island, Japan, Dec 23, 2009. The jump was part of routine training for the 31st and 320th special tactics squadrons from Kadena Air Base, Japan. Goodman and Wilson are assigned to the Air Force’s 31st Rescue Squadron. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Chad Warren

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class L.B. Arnold, with the 451st Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron, inspects an A-10C Thunderbolt aircraft at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, on Dec. 27, 2009. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez, U.S. Air Force. (Released)

PBS series explores emotional issues

2010-01-03T05:01:00.000-08:00

Warm up those remotes; there’s a promising new documentary series coming from PBS and it’s aimed squarely at the problems faced by military and their families.

Ben Wakana, a rep for the series, sent me this introduction to the show with corresponding links:

This is Ben Wakana. You heard from me a couple weeks ago and I wanted to provide some additional information regarding a new PBS documentary called This Emotional Life; airing on PBS on January 4, 5, and 6, 2010, at 8pm.

Dan Gilbert, the best-selling author of Stumbling on Happiness, has teamed up with PBS and Vulcan Productions to create this groundbreaking program, which explores ways we can improve our social relationships, cope with negative emotions, and become more positive, resilient individuals. You can see the trailer here, and visit the program’s website, which features a lot of additional resources, here.

“Becoming more positive, resilient individuals,” sounds like something we all could use! He continues:

I thought you and your readers might be particularly interested in the program’s focus on the emotional challenges that many military service-people and their families face before, during, and after deployment. The documentary features Bob Shumaker, a Vietnam War veteran discussing his time as a P.O.W, and an Iraq War veteran battling PTSD. This Emotional Life shares the compelling stories of service men and women, and the project also provides resources to help military personnel and their families cope with the emotional struggles they may face.

Pop the popcorn and turn off the cell, it sounds like a show for us!

--Tiffany

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These photos should have gone with the previous blog, "A new family tradition; serving up good cheer," but I was having formatting issues. So here are the wonderful folks you read about:

_________

Marine Daniel Pelletier and his mother JoAnn DeSerio are welcomed by MOTS volunteers at their Bradenton offices.

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Around the military:

Afghan Border Policemen patrol a hill in the Wam Valley of the Kandahar province of Afghanistan Dec. 22, 2009, to secure the Afghan border from infiltration and illegal entry of persons and contraband. (DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez, U.S. Air Force/Released)

U.S. Army Pfc. Brent Dawkins (left) and U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez sleep on the ground beside a mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle while snow falls in Wam Valley, Kandahar province, Afghanistan, on Dec. 22, 2009. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez, U.S.
Air Force. (Released)

U.S. Army Pfc. Ashante Short, with Regimental Higher Headquarters Troop, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Tennessee Army National Guard, closely observes during training in preparation for deployment to Iraq at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Hattiesburg, Miss., on Dec. 11, 2009. This will be the unit's second tour in support of operation Iraqi Freedom in five years. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Russell Lee Klika, U.S. Army. (Released)

A new family tradition: serving up good cheer

2009-12-30T03:46:00.000-08:00

Ho! Ho! Ho! bellowed the Santa in a small room at the Alvarez Restaurant. Children shyly approached the man in the red suit as happy elves helped them choose a toy on Christmas day. One of the elves smiled as she held up different toys…and I realized I knew that elf.

Marine Mom Adria worked as children were funneled into the tiny room before their families were seated for a free Christmas meal. Outside, bussing the tables on the crowded patio, was a tall young man with a “high and tight” and a USMC t-shirt.

Adria’s son, Alexander, was home for a couple of days leave from North Carolina. The whole family was working on Christmas; Adria’s husband, John, was in the kitchen serving up meals.

I only got to speak to Adria for a moment, but she was clearly enjoying the work. And I bet having her son smiling at her as he cleared the dishes contributed to her happy glow.

The only thing better, I bet, would be to have her other Marine son, Max, home for the holidays.

“It was great, I’m hoping to start a new tradition,” said Adria on her Facebook page.

Gives you a warm feeling to meet a family like that…thanks, Adria!

--Tiffany

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DoD Special:

_________

In Remembrance:

We have a service scheduled for an AMN in the USAF
Thurs 12-31-09

10:30am
for more information, contact:
Deborah Correll, Program Asst.
Sarasota National Cemetery
Toll Free: 877-861-9840
Local: 941-922-7200

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Around the military:

Marines and Sailors on BHR listen to the Commanding Officer speak on the flight deck Dec. 26.via twitter
U.S. Army 1st Lt. Erik Beundia (left) and Ssg. Jack Crites (right), both with Bravo Company 82nd Division Special Troops Battalion discuss security during a mission Dec. 18, 2009, Parwan, Afghanistan.photo by Ssg. Christopher Allison

A U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepares to depart Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, on Dec. 27, 2009. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez, U.S. Air Force. (Released)

The best gift: Christmas connections

2009-12-27T03:35:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I embarrass myself.

I always leave my cell phone in my car when I shoot an assignment; it’s too distracting and rude to answer calls when I’m working.

On Christmas Eve, I jumped into my car to drive back to the paper, flipped open my phone, and saw I had missed seven calls. Seven calls. My heart dropped into my stomach as I listened to the message:

“Mom. This is your son. Daniel. They just opened the phones for a couple of hours and I’ve called you seven times. Sorry I missed you, Merry Christmas. I don’t know when I can call you again. Love you…”

To say that I cried is an understatement. I sobbed. I walked through the office with tears streaming down my face and said some unknowable nonsensical things to my puzzled co-workers.

I’m a tough broad. Really, I am. But when I haven’t talked to my kid on over a month, and he's far away, and it's Christmas, and you hear their voice on your phone, it’s like …wow... it’s like all those times you feel that you let down someone you love. Crappy.

There’s a happy ending.

As a friend was trying to talk me out of my self-pity and loathing, the phone rang.

Yup. A Marine never gives up — especially when it’s my kid.

--Tiffany

Note: If you read this story about Manatee High alum Doug Schofield who watched the big championship game on the internet during his deployment with the Marines in Iraq, here’s part of a note he sent; I was happily surprised that his family saw the story, as I had no way to contact him:

You wouldn't believe how much listening to the games means to me. I've been in the Marine Corps for 18 years and in that time I've traveled to 23 countries, but my favorite place in the world is still Hawkins Stadium on a Friday Night! I hope you have a great Christmas and New Year! Have a beer and burger at Council’s for me!
Semper Fi,
Doug Schofield

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Visit Manasota's Operation Troop Support's

Facebook page:

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Around the military:

Santa Claus (Lt. Jon Sunderland) directs aircraft movement during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz Christmas Day. Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment to the region. Operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity.

Pfc. Josh Barrios from Torrence, Calif., and Staff Sgt. Brent Holmes from Marysville, Wash., both mortarmen with B Troop, 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, conduct a fires mission Dec. 16 from Camp Clark in the Khost Province of eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by US Army Pfc. Andrya Hill)

Gunnery Sgt. Terry McElwain, from Burden, Kan., hands out care packages to members of Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, aboard USS Bonhomme Richard here Dec. 23. McElwain, the company gunnery sergeant, filled in for Santa and handed out care packages, donated by Springfield, Mo., residents, to the Marines and Sailors of Co. E.photo by Sgt. Scott Biscuiti

Thankful for the gift of freedom

2009-12-23T05:09:00.001-08:00

Bah, humbug.

I’m not really feeling un-Christmassy, I’m just feeling a bit guilty for being able to enjoy my warm home, the glow of the tree, the comfort of my soft bed when I know our troops are slogging through rocky valleys, sleeping in holes, and eating MRE’s. Even those who are serving in better circumstances are probably not enjoying the same comforts they would at home.

They’re trained well for that; I know, I know. They signed up for that-on purpose, I know.

Even so, in many homes throughout the country, there will be loved ones missing from holiday celebrations. Some children may have only one parent watch as they tear through their gifts, their stockings, a holiday meal. Wives and husbands far from their families may spend their holiday alone.

We feel their absence and we miss them; but we are thankful for the gift of freedom that their selfless service provides for America and other nations throughout the world.

We pray for their safe return.

Merry Christmas!

--Tiffany

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Congratulations to Air Force grad Kyle Utz!

Air Force Airman Kyle L. Utz graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Utz is the son of Mark Utz of Walden Loop, Parrish, Fla., and Norma Hayes of Village Grove Court, Tampa, Fla.

He is a 2009 graduate of Palmetto High School, Fla.

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In Remembrance:

We have a Indigent burial for a World War II Marine Veteran scheduled:
Wednesday,
12-23-09.
1:00pm

For more information contact:

Deborah Correll, Program Asst.
Sarasota National Cemetery
Toll Free: 877-861-9840
Local: 941-922-7200

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Around the military:

Lance Cpl. Christopher Duffourc, 21, of Lockhart, Texas, fires a wire-guided missile at a range here Dec. 13 as Sgt. Roberto Colon of New Jersey stands by as a position safety officer. Duffourc and Colon are serving with the Magnificent Bastards, the ground-combat element of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. photo by Gunnery Sgt. Scott Dunn

Lance Cpl. David M. Shelton, a rifleman with Company F, Battalion Landing Team 2/4 , 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, from Warren, Mich., and Lance Cpl. Seth T. Lima, a squad automatic weapon gunner from Safety Harbor, Fla., run from one concealed position to another during live-fire and maneuver training here Dec. 8.
U.S. Navy Intelligence Specialist 2nd Chris Davis, left, Equipment Operator 2nd Class Norman Patton and Construction Electrician 2nd Class Ben Coulson, all assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3, assemble a cot for their overnight stay in Grand Bara, Djibouti, Dec. 16, 2009, before the 27th Grand Bara Run. The Grand Bara Run is a 15-kilometer race through the Grand Bara Desert hosted by the French Foreign Legion with participants from the French, Djiboutian, Japanese and U.S. militaries. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Bryce Bruns, U.S. Navy/Released)

Spend those magic pennies!

2009-12-20T05:27:00.001-08:00

I came across a photo this morning which, though not emotional in any way, choked me up.

A Marine sporting a jaunty Santa hat was unloading mail from a helicopter aboard the USS Cleveland -- the sister ship of the USS Bonhomme Richard.

Those bulging mail sacks were filled with letters, gifts and the telltale shape of flat-rate boxes used by families with the hopes that their loved one would feel our love and appreciation from half a world away.

That sentiment was brought home last week when someone forwarded me a photo and letter from a former Manatee High School football player. Manatee was headed to Orlando to play for the 5A state championship, and this Marine in Iraq, along with two other Marines, an Army buddy, and some other alum serving in Afghanistan were following their team from afar.

These strong connections to home, family and community run in both directions; to the far reaches of the world and back.

No matter if our letters are paper and ink or emails; our support is getting through to the troops — and is coming right on back to us.

“Love is like a magic penny; hold it tight, you don’t get any…”

I’m spending my magic penny.

--Tiffany

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In Remembrance:

We will be honoring a U.S. Army Specialist 3 from the Korean War Period.
Monday 21 Dec 2009 at 10:00am
Sarasota National Cemetery

For more information, contact:
James Knight
Cemetery Representative
941-922-7200

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Roger J. Robichaud, a "former SP5 US Army from way back" sent me a military mom poem and links to his sites. Thanks, Roger! It's great to feel appreciated!

I may clutch a picture of my child
Go in that room of memories wild

My young one has left to be so brave
The hero of my heart, gone to save

At times I want to reach out and hold
But I know the answer, Mom be bold

The love of my child is part of me
So strong and good, it will always be

Nurtured in life with a caring heart
This child to me is a work of art

Dear God you know how my love is true
I've prayed for my soldier, more I'll do

And to mothers who live their life as I
We'll grow in support, our flag held high

Together we'll get through each new day
Becoming great friends, God Bless our way

Roger J. Robicheau

Links:

Military Mom Poems

My Christmas Poems

Troop Support Poems

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Around the military:

U.S. Soldiers and Airmen await to be transported on a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook at Forward
Operating Base Wolverine, Zabul province, Afghanistan, Dec. 17. (U.S. Air Force photo by

Efren Lopez/Released)

Sailors and Marines aboard USS Cleveland unload mail delivered here by helicopter in time for the holidays Dec. 18.Gunnery Sgt. Scott Dunn

U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Shell creates a mural to memorialize the fallen comrades assigned to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, Forward Operating Base Frontenac, Afghanistan, Dec. 16, 2009.U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II

Anchoring on love

2009-12-16T04:17:00.001-08:00

“Love, Grandma” is scripted at the base of the wooden angel and lamb we discovered in our yard one morning in 1993.

Every year they are pulled from the attic, dusted off, and positioned with care in front of the house. The gingerbread girl is placed beside the front door and the carved manger scene is arranged and rearranged to perfection.

These are part of our family’s Christmas rituals. They imbue our holidays with a recognition of our past, and hope for the future.

Each knick-knack, tree skirt, and cracked ornament tells the story of our holidays through the years.

This will be our second Christmas with Daniel on deployment and we’ll miss him terribly, but a recent letter from his commander shares a sentiment of strength and hope to pull us through the holidays:

“I ask that you anchor on your love for each other and continue to pass along your thoughts and prayers because we do receive them. I hope you are receiving ours, as well.

On behalf of the HMM-166 (REIN) Marines and Sailors, we give you our deepest thanks for your support, understanding and patriotism.

Happy Holidays and God Bless,

LtCo”

We will stay anchored on the love we have for our family and our faith; the strongest possible mooring in rough times.

--Tiffany

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Around the military:

2nd Plt E Co. moves through an obstacle course in Djibouti Dec. 9. via Twitter

U.S. soldiers dig to search for a weapons cache near the village of Al Najatia in Kirkuk province, Iraq, Dec. 5, 2009. The soldiers joined forces with the Iraqi soldiers to conduct the search.U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class MatthewD. Leistikow

Paratroopers from Special Operations Command Europe descend after jumping from an MC-130 Combat Talon aircraft over Malmsheim Drop Zone in Germany Dec. 9, 2009. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Isaac A. Graham, U.S. Army/Released)

Real smiles pending

2009-12-13T04:42:00.001-08:00

Thanks, King James I of England, for allegedly coining the first version of my new No. 1 most-hated phrase:

“No news is good news.”

It’s true, absolutely. You know if, God forbid, something bad happened, the military would be at your door or ringing your phone ASAP.

The ups and downs of deployment feel a bit like a car ride to nowhere; you start out thinking good thoughts, adrenaline humming. But after the car overheats, a burger you wolfed down percolates in your belly and the dog barfs in the back seat, it seems harder to keep the smile pasted on your face.

But the smile is pasted on my face. And there it will remain when the next person who cheerily asks me, “Have you heard from Daniel?” hears my reply, and I will keep smiling when I hear the inevitable modern-day version of King James' phrase:

“No news is better than evil news.”

Yup. But I want to hear some good news...then people will see a real smile on my face.

--Tiffany

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Around the military:

A soldier celebrates during the 110th playing of the Army-Navy football game at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Dec. 12, 2009. DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

The Navy demonstration parachute team, the Leap Frogs, jump into Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Penn. before the 110th Army-Navy college football game. (U.S. Navy photo by Damon J. Moritz/Released)

The Navy demonstration parachute team, the Leap Frogs, jump into Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Penn. before the 110th Army-Navy college football game. (U.S. Navy photo by Damon J. Moritz/Released)

To share, or not to share...

2009-12-09T05:54:00.001-08:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like “I’m over this deployment!”

I know…I know. I am totally in support of my son and the troops and all they do. I’m just selfishly missing my son.

He’s a good sounding board; a friendly ear; a good ‘commiserator.’

I’ve known exactly the problems and situations I should tell him about while he is deployed…or I have until now.

What to do? Darn.

So…there’s a potential ‘something’ in the family right now, and I don’t know if he’ll be mad I didn’t tell him about it; or upset that I worried him while he’s far away and unable to do anything except worry.

Well, I guess I just answered my own question. He can’t do anything about it and it will make him worry—don’t share. Problem solved.

I hope.

--Tiffany

Have you had a similar situation while your loved one was deployed? Tell me about it…please!
ttompkins@bradenton.com

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Participate in "Wreaths across America"

Saturday, December 12, 2009
11:30 a.m.
Sarasota National Cemetery
9810 State Road 72
Sarasota, FL 34241-9574
(941) 922-7200

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In Remembrance:

There will be two indigent services held at the Sarasota National Cemetery Thursday,
12-10-09 at 10:30am.
One is S1 US Navy a Vietnam Vet the other a AMN USAF Korean Vet
for more info:
Deborah Correll, Program Asst.
Sarasota National Cemetery
Toll Free: 877-861-9840
Local: 941-922-7200

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The Sarasota County Young Republicans (SRQYR) are holding a Christmas card making event for our FL soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan at our first annual "Republicans on Ice" event at the Ellenton Ice Rink on Saturday, Dec. 12th from 1-3pm. We will also be collecting toiletries, hard candy and beanie babies at the event to send along with the cards.

If anyone would be interested in joining us, we would love to have them. Chris Markowski, "the Watchdog of Wall Street", will be speaking and various state and local candidates and elected officials will be joining us for a meet and greet. We have lots of fun family activities planned including a bounce house and of course—ice skating.

Click this link for more information:

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Around the military:

At a homecoming ceremony Nov. 28 on Cooper Field, in front of 1st Cavalry Division’s headquarters building, Regina Leroy, and dogs Yoshi and Bruiser welcome Spc. Leo Leroy home from a year-long deployment to Qayarrah in northern Iraq. Leroy is with E Forward Support Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment.

A U.S. soldier conducts a dismounted patrol in the village of Shabila Kalan in Zabul province, Afghanistan, Nov. 30, 2009. The soldier is assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division's 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade Combat Team.U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Efren Lopez

U.S. Army soldiers navigate a stream during a security patrol in Chabar, Afghanistan, on Dec. 3, 2009. The soldiers are from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II, U.S. Air Force. (Released)

Love that moto-lingo!

2009-12-06T03:55:00.001-08:00

Bravo Zulu!

Sounds cool, huh? It’s the Navy’s way of saying “well done” and I’m adopting it…thanks, Navy!

It’s also the heading on the Bonhomme Richard’s Facebook page for those who have achieved a rank or certification. I’ll bet their families appreciate that!

It's amazing that deployed troops have the energy to take the corporal’s course, or gain a martial arts belt, a promotion or any other accolade. Super duper!

I adore the super-moto talk of the military. Can you imagine the bagger at Publix asking if you’re “good to go?” or your co-workers yelling “brass on deck!” so you could look productive when the boss walked in?

Well…face it, we’re just not that cool, we’re the “nasty civilians.” (“Nasty” said with affection, of course.)

I’ll leave most of the cool acronyms and designations to the military, but I’m keeping “Bravo Zulu.”

--Tiffany

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Welcome Home!

Very proud Marine Mom Joann DeSerio waited at the Tampa Airport to welcome home her son, Cpl. Daniel Pelletier, from Iraq. The entire airport applauded as he emerged from a bear-hug from his mom. Daniel enjoyed a home cooked Thanksgiving with family before returning to MCAS Beaufort.

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Congratulations to Danny and Mary Sklenika!
Proud dad Dan sent these lovely photos:

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Visit the new MOTS website!

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In Remembrance:

Our dear Marine Mom, Nancy Berman, suffered a tragic loss Sunday. Her husband, David Berman, died in a small plane crash. Her family is in our prayers.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Lance Cpl. Jonathan A. Taylor, 22, of Jacksonville, Fla., died Dec. 1 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Pfc. Derrick D. Gwaltney, 21, of Cape Coral, Fla., died Nov. 29 south of Basra, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 377th Field Artillery Regiment, 17th Fires Brigade, Fort Lewis, Wash.

To honor one who passed with no surviving family, attend the funeral of a PFC US Army Vietnam Vet. His service is scheduled for Monday Dec 7, 2009 at 10:00 am. For more information, contact:
Deborah Correll, Program Asst.
Sarasota National Cemetery
Toll Free: 877-861-9840
Local: 941-922-7200

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Around the military:

An AH-64D Apache attack helicopter departs the flightline under a full moon to conduct operations from Camp Taji, Iraq, Dec. 2, 2009. The helicopter is assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division's 1st Air Cavalry Brigade. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Travis Zelinski

U.S. soldiers join in to be a part of the circle, some to pray, before every mission in Kandahar, Afghanistan, Nov. 22, 2009. The soldiers are assigned to the 62nd Engineer Company, 4th Engineer Battalion. U.S. Army photo by Pfc. David Hauk

A U.S. soldier stands against the Afghan skyline after securing a combat outpost in Rajankala in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Nov. 26, 2009. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II