My emotions are officially on the roller coaster ride to Iraq. It’s hard to explain exactly what that means. Trust me, I know. I’ve tried to explain to my friends how hard this is. I’ve tried explaining how it feels in the pit of your stomach to know your’re going to a place where our nation’s been at war for well over five years now. There are no words to explain the feelings I have right now. I know my friends are trying to be there for me…well most of them. I understand that they have no clue what all deployment entails. Some of them complain about going to work period. How are they suppose to understand how it feels to know you’ll be working ten and twelve hour shifts and not go home at the end of the day. No more nice dinners with friends and family. No going out to the club and drinking the night away. No calling in sick and sitting at home with a hangover.
But on the other hand, do they know the pride we take in our jobs? Do they pity us? Maybe. But why? Although my nerves are shot and my emotions are all over the place right now, I know I’m making at least a small difference in the world. I know that my job isn’t just a dead end. I have job security. I’m the one that took the oath. I volunteered the join the military. It has taken joining the Army to make me more appreciative. To each its own. I’m not knocking my friends back home. I just wish some of them would try a little harder to understand what I’m going through.
Most of my friends have been great and I would like to thank them! Thanks guys; you know who ya’ are!
Also, certain people in this unit have really been here for me lately. First off is Mary Lee. 
My best friend from back home. She and I joined the Army together and I couldn’t have gotten this far without her. Thank you Mary.
Next is SPC Thurston. Roshonda, you’re my battle and I’ve always got your back. Whenever you get down just remember that Mary and I are always here for you. Keep your head up and you’ll be home before you know it.
Last but not least is SPC Hope. Autumn, thanks for always letting me vent. I’m glad that you joined our unit and that we’ve had the chance to get closer. If you ever need anything, just let me know.
Saturday, 3. January 2009
Our prayers go with you!
Del
Sunday, 4. January 2009
Although we are not physically there with you, know that we are there in our thoughts and prayers. You have a connected family that will always support you! We love all of you even though I do not know you all that well. When my son joined the unit you all became my sons and daughters. I look forward in giving you all the support and respect you deserve.
Wednesday, 7. January 2009
It’s hard being a soldier. I know this even if I’ve never been one. Brittany’s Dad was in the Navy and he’s told me of the loneliness and isolation that occurs while being overseas. He joined to get out of a bad situation at home, and I don’t think he’s ever regretted his decision, except when he was at sea for 6 months at a time. He’s a family man and didn’t like the thought of not being able to see them for such a long time. I know that you didn’t join to get away from any bad situation, but to better yourself mentally and physically. I know you’ve done that and I’m proud. Of all my children, I didn’t expect YOU to be the one that joined the service. Such a surprise. I think you made your brothers feel a little inadequate, but they shouldn’t. It just wasn’t their thing. One good thing about the service today is that you know the internet is there to connect you with those you love, and you know that the family you have back here in the states will always be here when you come home. Friends will come and go, as they always do, but family is forever. At least this family is. Having 15 brothers and sisters is a guarantee that you will have family no matter what happens to your friends. Don’t let the insecurities of your friends bring you down. Do what is best for YOU and know that the outcome will be what God has planned.
Wednesday, 7. January 2009
Please forgive my typo’s. Dad was hollering for babywipes and I forgot to proofread. Typical.
Wednesday, 7. January 2009
Oh yeah, I’m going to speak at the Unitarian Church Feb. 1, and you better know that I’m going to talk about how proud I am off all the soldiers fighting for our freedom. Keep your helmets on and your shoulders low