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Purple Hearted Candor

Posted: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 1:59 PM
Filed Under:

By John Rutherford, Producer, NBC News, Washington

 WASHINGTON -- Three soldiers received Purple Hearts this week at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Afterward I asked them a series of questions sent to me by readers in response to my "Purple Hearted Candor" post about the last award ceremony.

On Tuesday I spoke with Sgt. Christopher Ritchey, 25, of Hudson, Ohio; Staff Sgt. Dale Cherney, 43, of Mosinee, Wis., and Sgt. Michael Minard, 26, of Grand Junction, Colo.

The first soldier, Sgt. Ritchey, was wounded in December by a roadside bomb north of Fallujah, Iraq:

Image: Sgt. Christopher Ritchey
NBC News
Sgt. Christopher Ritchey

1. Question from Merry Jones, Rockmart, Ga.: "How can we best show our appreciation for the wounded that are stateside and the others who are still in the Mideast?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "I think the best way people can support troops coming back is to just listen, because I think it helps to just talk about what happened. Get things out in the open and, you know, not hide anything. I think that really helps the healing process."

2. Question from Mireya, Berwyn, Ill.: "What would you say to a young 18-year-old who is thinking of joining the military, what advice would you give to them? What advice do you wish was given to you when you first signed up?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "I would tell someone joining to make sure they know what they're getting into and not be naive. Read everything before you sign it. A lot of people gave me advice, and I ignored a lot of good advice. I guess I wish I would have just finished school before joining the Army."

3. Question from Joel, Boston: "As the enemy has no airplanes, no navy, no tanks, no artillery, etc. ... how come the USA is not kicking their butt?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "The enemy is really cunning, and they're fighting a guerilla war. We're doing the best we can, and in a lot of respects, from what I've seen, we are really kicking their butt."

4. Question from Clint Bramkamp, Cincinnati, Ohio: "How long will they still be fighting and taking casualties?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "I really can't say for sure. I think we're definitely making a lot of progress, and things are doing better than they were a couple of years ago."

5. Question from Thoralf Tollefsen, Matawan, N.J.: "Do they still feel we should have gone in the first place? Should we still be there?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "You talk to these Iraqis out on the street, and they'll tell you they have hope, and I think that in itself makes it worth it."

6. Question from Pam S., Westford, Mass.: "What can we do for their families when they get back or when they are over there?"

Sgt. Ritchey: "I guess people just saying thank you is enough."

Staff Sgt. Cherney was wounded last October in a mortar attack on Camp Liberty in Iraq:

Image: Staff Sgt. Dale Cherney
NBC News
Staff Sgt. Dale Cherney

7. Question from Jackie, Southern California: "In which way can we as civilians best honor their service?" SSG Cherney: "Just understand that soldiers go over there and do their duty. We aren't fighting for oil or whatever. If the country calls us to duty, we go."

8. Question from Niall, Ireland: "Do the soldiers feel Iraq has changed them, and how has it changed them?"

SSG Cherney: "It changes everyone. That's a definite yes. I've seen some younger folks grow up really quick and come back very grown up. Me, I think about things more now."

9. Question from William Spadel, Philadelphia, Pa.: "In their opinion, is America looked to with hope or dread by the people of Iraq?"

SSG Cherney: "Most of the people are like us and they see us with hope. There are a few bad guys over there making it not so nice for everybody."

Sgt. Minard was wounded Oct. 1 by a roadside bomb in Baghdad:

Image: Sgt. Michael Minard
NBC News
Sgt. Michael Minard

10. Question from Jose Gonzalez: "Is there anything we can do that's not being done for each of them?"

Sgt. Minard: "Just continue taking care of the soldiers overseas, you know. Send them care packages, take care of them. They need all the support they can get to get through what's going on over there."

11. Question from Jen West, Jordan, Utah: "Ask them if they feel that they are doing any good. I want to know if they think any of it is worth it."

Sgt. Minard: "Yeah, I've done three tours, and on my first tour it was pretty rough. Second tour, it got a lot better. And this last tour, obviously I didn't get to finish it, but it was going pretty well over there. It's getting better."

12. Question from John Doe, Washington, D.C.: "What do the soldiers feel regarding the care they are given at Walter Reed? Is it as bad as the Washington Post depicted it a year ago?"

Sgt. Minard: "It's been really good. I've had no problems. Everything's been amazing, actually."

I sought a response from Pat Cassimatis, a public information officer at Walter Reed, to this final e-mail from Doug Culp: "Hell with the interview, take ‘em all a goddamn case of beer."

Pat Cassimatis: "Beer? Unfortunately not, given medications they are probably on. You wouldn't want to go there. Dinner gift certificate to some restaurant? Hey, why not?"

If you'd like to do something for the wounded soldiers at Walter Reed, just go to www.wramc.army.mil and click on "donate" in the bottom right of your screen.

If you'd like to know what you can do for all of our service members, here are some websites sent in by readers: www.anysoldier.com;  www.soldiersangels.com;  www.letssaythanks.com;  www.health.mil;  www.adoptaplatoon.com, and www.marineparents.com. If you know of similar websites, please send them to us in the comment section below.

And if you have a question you'd like me to ask the soldiers at Walter Reed, please send it to me in the same section.

Washington Producer John Rutherford is a decorated Vietnam veteran. He also posts stories on the military at www.dailynightly.msnbc.com (click on "John Rutherford" under "categories") and at http://john-rutherford.newsvine.com/. A tribute gallery to U.S. service members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan can be found at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22802019/.

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Comments

These young men are hero's and we can thank god for them.What other country has young men of this quality,
none i bet

cliff taylor huntingtonbeach ca (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 3:26 PM)

I have no questions but would simply like to say Thank You to all men and women serving in the military, both at home and abroad.  I pray for each of you every night; your well-being, your families and your safe return.  God Bless You All.

Martha, Hopkinsville KY (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 3:45 PM)

My son (19) has just recently been deployed to Hit, Iraq about 80 miles west of Bahgdad about a week ago, he sounds really stressed out and has started smoking already, should i encourage him to talk about what he is doing over there when he calls or just let him talk about what he wants? Why doesnt the military give more helpfule information to the families before their sons go, like the fact that they can have cash, i mean my son has no access to get any money and noone said anything about us giving them oney before they deployed, I could have done that.

Concerned Marine Mom (Gina)

Gina Bradley, Gilbert Arizona (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 3:51 PM)

You guys are true heroes. Thankyou.
Please keep spreading news of hope and progress in Iraq when you can. We don't get too much of that in the media these days.
My wife will keep sending packages over to you through anysoldier.com as long as they are still wanted. 3200+ and counting.
SSG Michael Mitchell, KIA 4/4/04, R.I.P.


Chris Baker, Atascadero, CA (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 3:56 PM)

These soldiers are HEROs. The most important thing we can do for our troops is to support them not only with your heart but with your comments and action. It is a very hollow felling when you are risking your life and you feel the people of the country do not back you. I am a combat helocopter pilot from the Vietnam War.I went to Vietnam as a married man with two children. I felt and still feel that if the country needs me I will serve. Knowing the country is behind you makes the sacrifice worth it.

FX Hickey Bayshore, NY (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 4:10 PM)

How many of the soldiers in Iraq, the once that really fight every day for freedom, think that we should bring the troops home?

Kathy, Salt Lake City, UT (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 4:11 PM)

Like most soldiers who are serving or have served in Iraq and Afghanistan we would prefer to be home with our families, but also want to see our country finish the job.  Back in the early 50's the Korean War was not popular back home, but over 50 years later it would be hard to argue that our sacrifices (10x the casualty rate of Iraq) weren't worth it.  Certainly the South Korean people appreciate what we did for them.  I'm hopeful history will someday view our sacrifices in Iraq and Afghanistan the same way.

Kurt Ziehlke, Lake Oswego, OR (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 4:50 PM)

From one Veteran to another-Thanks & Job Well Done!

John Krzos, Matteson, Ill. (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 5:59 PM)

To: Concerned Marine Mom (Gina)  I was in Iraq from 12/18/03 to 3/22/05.  There were alot of things that my wife and I were not aware of that could have made things easier. Fortunatley my wife was close to many other wives and families so she had some support.  They started a family support group that gathered regulary and had functions for the children and were able to spend time together and talk about issues they may be facing due to their loved ones deployment.  I also did not know that we could take cash with us, but there is a way to get it.  Have your son talk his leadership and find out where is the closest finance office around there.  I know it sounds funny being in acombat zone.  There are many camps and fowarding operating bases where the U.S. runs operations out of where there are finance personel. They will allow you to take out cash advances that will be deducted from your pay on the follwing pay day. I did this myself on several occassions. I hope that this helps you and tell your son I thak you.  

Aarron Robinette, Cleveland, OH (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 6:04 PM)

Thank you for going.  I don't care if anyone agrees or disagrees with the war, they still should stand with the soldiers who follow orders and go.  I people disagree then the place to address it is at the ballot box.

Dale (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 6:04 PM)

The most important thing is the support of our troops and their families.  I can tell you what this country was like when I was medivac'd from Viet Nam.  We don't need to go there again. It's an honor to fight for the rights and freedom for all Americans, just make them feel like you appreciate it.  One cannot explain to another the true feelings expressed in combat.  They need support and time to heal.  Thanks America.

Paul Mills New Holland, SC (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 6:14 PM)

This message is to Gina Bradley -

I served in the area where your son is now deployed.  Rest assured the area your son is staioned at has seen a major decrease in hostilities.  I also ahve a friend serving in the area (he volunteered for a second tour) and the things he tells me about that specific area are in stark contrast to the experiences we had just a year ago.  So hopefully that eases your mind.

Regarding talking to him - don't push him to talk.  If he seems upset, assure him that it is normal - becasue it is normal.  If he is scared, that is a good thing.  That will keep him aware.  If he wants to talk, then do your best to just listen.  Manyh times while Iw as over there, I jsut wanted to talk.  I didn't want to hear about opinions, I didn't want advice, and I didn't need much help other than just knowing that I was not wrong for feeling the odd mix of emotions I felt while I was over there.  So the best thing you can do for your son is be a good listener, both while he is there, and especially when he comes home.  There is enough pressure in his life right now.  His family and friends need to be the safe place he can go to get away from the pressure.

Ed, San Diego, CA (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 6:19 PM)

All of our soldiers everywhere in the world are HEROES..they have sacrificed their home lives to serve and protect our country.  Does anyone know a website or info. on what to put into a soldier's care package and where these packages can be sent?
Also, how about letters and notes to our soldiers?...Any info on that would be appreciated, too!

Terry C, Celebration, FL (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 6:32 PM)

reply to gina from ariz. with all due respect, ma'am,
after being in the bush and my daughter in the sand (4 tours ), anything you send, even a post card or e-mail is most welcome. let him talk about whatever he wants, whenever he feels o.k. talking about it. don't ask too many questions. above all, have no fear and show no weakness. he doesn't need anything else to worry about. you can handle it, you may look harmless, but you raised a Marine!! Semper fi!!!

sgt. bart (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:13 PM)

I forwarded something I was reading on the net about Vietnam vets to a friend of mine who is a vet, and included a thank you for your service. His response was a nearly tearfull thank you for saying that because NO ONE HAD SAID THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE IN THE MANY YEARS SINCE HE RETURNED HOME. That is pathetic and so to all of our men and women who have in all of our armed services defended our country we acknoledge a great injustice of not leting you know how greatly you are all appreciated and THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Some times we fail to realize how important the simple things like thank you can be and for that we appologize.  

Rod E. (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:15 PM)

Did any of these soldiers ever locate those pesky weapons of mass destruction?  And pray tell, what does the occupation of Iraq have to do with the ongoing destruction of the US constitution, the miserable conditions in the VA, and the failing economic situation of that country?  I believe they fought the wrong enemy.

Danny (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:26 PM)

I was wounded in Vietnam and I would go on active duty in a war zone today if the U.S. asked me to go, but I will never get over the lack of appreciation by the American public for my sacrifice; I've lived in hell for 39 years! It's not too late, but I'm 61 and don't have too much longer. Thanks to the soldiers of today.

Jim Latham (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:38 PM)

Please note that in addition to Walter Reed, their are other hospitals that also treat our wounded.  One is Balboa (the Walter Reed of the west coast) in San Diego where my son ended up after his suicide attack and there are others (i want to say there is one that specifically handles traumatic amputees but can't remember) Though Walter Reed is great and i endorse the support, please remember that there are soldiers/Marines scattered around the US that could also use the extra support that may not come as quickly to a lesser name institution.  

gschutten (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:47 PM)

ooorah,Semper Fi to all of you injured or not the duty there really scuks and you guys endure it . as a Former Marine S/Sgt and spending 3yrs in Korea the truth is combat is combat and these guys all fight alike "down and dirty" hide behind the garb they and there entire country wears,with no respect for even there own. God is on our side and I am on yours as are all Americans. regardless of what branch you belong to my heart and blessings go out to you all. cant ever say or praise enough of your job to protect Ameica and the people that you are fighting for.i wish i was at the age to  join you i'd be there

PatrickL.Woolley,lLakeland ,Fla. 33810 (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 7:59 PM)

ok just protray my thanks

PatrickL.Woolley,lLakeland ,Fla. 33810 (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:00 PM)

I cannot tell you how glad I am the American public is really supporting our troops. I am a Vietnam vet, and when I left to come home for good, I was in the Seattle airport, in uniform, and I was called a fucking baby killer and spat on.

These misinformed people didn't care that I was not one of the policy wonks inside the Beltline - I was just a sailor trying to be a good patriot and serve my country.

I am SO GLAD people who are against the Iraq war are NOT taking out their anti-ware sentiments and our troops now and actually support them. I would hypothesize this means we have grown as a nation and can now properly differentiate between the people who make policy and the grunts who are charged with carrying out a policy they have absolutely no input into.

When I was returning home, I would have much preferred to have not ben spit on and cursed at simply because I was wearing a U.S. Military uniform.

Tim Britt, West Jefferson, NC

Tim Britt, West Jefferson, NC (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:49 PM)

Simply said FREEDOM ISN'T FREE. Americans hate any war that lasts longer than a week! As a PH recepient in Viet Nam, I have only the upmost respect for the wonderful men and women who puts thier lives on the line very day for the defense of our country. No one wants warbut I still feel it better to fight there rather than here

Lon Oakley San Antonio, Texas (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 8:57 PM)

This disabled veteran salutes you heroes.  My philosophy, since the 70s and 80s when I was in, is:  If you can't stand behind the troops, feel free to stand in front of them.

Jack Johnson, U.S. Army SGT (Ret.), MO (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:04 PM)

God bless you all.  You are in our prayers and are the best of your generation. STAND TALL AND RETURN WITH HONOR!!

A VET, San Antonio, TX (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:05 PM)

Rest assured your service is appreciated.  I fly a US flag outside my house, brightly lit at night, and salute the men and women of the military everytime I pass by it.  I owe you all, Big Time!  Thanks!

Steve Crupi, Anchorage, AK (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:21 PM)

message to danny, re: your ridiculous political commentary directed to men & women WHO SERVE THIER COUNTRY irrespective of their personal political convictions, because that is their duty. Thank God for them, so you don't have to go. A dose of common sense would be greatly appreciated.  

shelby (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:36 PM)

As a Vietman vet. I was spit on at SF and Atlanta airports when in 1965 I returned home. We, as Americans, MUST make sure our government gives medical care and financial support to our troops for as long as it takes.  I fly every week or two and most always get upgraded to first class.  I always give my seat to a troop when one is on board. The rest of frequent flyers should do the same.  

Benny Hayes, Bainbridge, Georgia (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 9:38 PM)

I am interested in finding out who & where we can find the young, Purple Heart recipients that are from Alabama. I'm the Commander of Chapter # 2213,Military Order of the Purple Heart. I was wounded in action during the '68 Tet Offensive,near Saigon. My chapter is made up mostly of Vietnam,Korea,& a few WWII vets who were all combat-wounded. Our existence depends on these young men & women knowing that there is an organization that was created just for combat-wounded veterans from all wars & all branches of the service.

Lonnie Wadsworth,Cmdr.,chap.#2213 Springville,AL. (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:18 PM)

to terry c
anysoldier.com and soldiers angel.com both are great for what your looking for.
as a wife of a deployed soldier, just to read everybodys thank yous makes me tear up and it does mean alot to us. But don't just thank the soldier though because alot of soldiers will telll you them havinga strong family makes their job easier to do and it does take a specila kind of woman to be a military spouse. So to all the spouses HOOAH!

Peggy Davis, Ft Campbell, Ky (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:43 PM)

Rely to Terry C. Anysoldier.com is a awesome site for helping our brave ones. They have been up for about 4 years now and I have been using them for 3 years. My son, Michael Mitchell was KIA in Iraq on 4/4/04. By sending to the soldiers, it helps with support and helps in my healing. We have sent out over 5100 support packages and we are not done yet. If you go to anysoldier.com, please remember that the site operates on donations. Would not know how I would feel without them.
To everyone in the military-THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. Our freedom is because of you=)

Cathy Baker, Atascadero, Ca (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:48 PM)

I am a Vet' twenty years service, I am now 65 years old. I could rite a book on my miletary experinces,However now its past history.Now its time to give dew respect to those who serve today.You have my profound respect'Also Your famelis who live with the pain of not knowing what you indure  day by day.I say this" If I Could"by any means" Go and replace any one of you,"Send you home" to those loved ones,whom you miss.I would go today, I humbley thank you.

PO-1 SeaBees Ret' Walt Owens Fountain Inn SC. (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:56 PM)

25; 43 26 - life messed up. What's the use of saying, "thank you for protecting me' when what we should be doing is going after the lawmakers who have allowed 1001 roadblocks to spring up that is the cause of these casualties?
To our troops - Thank you.
lawed.

law ed NYC, NY (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 10:56 PM)

I still weep today over the 2 brothers I lost in WW2, am I proud of them, yes I am. I am proud of any American that puts on a uniform to protect our country. We are engaged in a war right now to prevent the spread of terroists. Do we need another 9/11 to remind us? Get the job done  and then come home to a grateful nation, to all the retired vets I give a salute from the heart. To the wounded, I say, I pray for your healing.

Marty CR Iowa (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:03 PM)

To Kathy, Salt Lake City
Quote"How many of the soldiers in Iraq, the once that really fight every day for freedom, think that we should bring the troops home?

Every soldier whether in Iraq, Afghanistan, Horn of Africa. S. Korea, the United States, etc. fights for YOUR freedom everyday.  Some of us pull the triggers and some support the trigger pullers but we all fight for a common goal.  The freedom and security of every US Citizen.  

Do we like spending endless months away from our families over and over again.  No.  But we do because we beleive in something bigger than us.  It is called Duty, Honor and Country.  

So instead of asking if the real soldiers who fight want to come home and in turn insulting the very people who protect your ability to live a free and secure life.  Just say THANK YOU to the next service member you see or meet.

Steve, US Army, FT Campbell, KY (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:11 PM)

If the American people really want to support the troops, then more of them should volunteer for military service, especially in the Army and the Marine Corps.  If you cannot serve (and I don't mean just because you don't want to serve, but legitimately cannot serve due to age or disability, etc.) then support veterans groups and government officials and policies that actually benfit the military financially.

But as an active duty Officer in the United States Army, I cannot stress enough how badly we need volunteers.  This war is about manpower, and right now, we don't have enough.  So if you really want to "support our troops," then volunteer to serve and encourage others to join as well -- that's the best and biggest way anyone can help us over here, and the fastest way to get us all back home.

-1LT Joel Dixon, Gardez, Afghanistan

Joel Dixon, Fort Riley, Kansas (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:12 PM)

www.soldiersangels.org

Jeff Bader (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:28 PM)

I am super proud of all of our service people!  Whenever I meet someone who has served, I always tell them thank you because I know that it is a huge sacrifice.  My personal feelings about the situation in the Middle East that do not contribute to unity and support for our young and old men and women need to be kept to myself and to the confines of intelligent conversation discussing the war.  I would never publicly criticize the war or our President because that leads to division during a time when we as a country need to stick together.  

Terri Brown, Jacksonville, Florida (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:28 PM)

Hey Danny, get a life.

Semper Fi to all our military men and women seving our country and protecting our freedom and Danny's right to act like a true jackass.

BOB BOWMAN, CWO-3 USMCR RETIRED (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:41 PM)

I was in the navy and well i looked at the marines as being the brother we liked to fight with at the bar or out in town.  let me tell you our marines and our army personel are some of the most tallented soldiers one could look up to.  I am so proud of all of soldier abroad.  Just remember men and women on the ground sacrafice so much and we owe it to them at the very least to say thank you and do what is right to honor their service.

Jeff Wothe corona ca (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:42 PM)

I have no question! But I would like to send out a big thank you to all in uniform for protecting the USA!  THANK YOU

Mark Jago, Gower MO (Sent Wednesday, March 05, 2008 11:46 PM)

May God bless and keep you all safe.
I fought in Vietnam.101st abn.Paratrooper forever.I will never turn my back on you guy's.

Larry steward Roseville,ca. (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 12:20 AM)

I am a Texan who does not entirely support the war. However, I feel that despite all of the negativity towards the war, Americans should support our troops and give them what they need so our troops can finish the job quicker and come home. The more anti-war sentiment, the longer the war will drag out.

Many of my friends have relatives serving or have served in Iraq. A few have, sadly, given their lives. In that sense, I am glad to say I have participated in several war-supporting ceremonies and look to further participate in more.

Thank you to all who have ever served America in any way, regardless of gender, race, nationality, etc. These don't matter. What matters is a pure American heart.

Tara Lane (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 12:31 AM)

I am thankful for all of our military personnel,no matter where they are serving.To me,every day is veterans day.Those who have been wounded deserve all that our country can provide for them.I am a veteran of 28 years of active duty,Army(Infantry & Armor).I served in the Korean War and in Vietnam.

George W. Alton,Nashua,Iowa (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 12:33 AM)

All I can say is God Bless You All. I am head bowed down indebted to you.

Tony, San Jose, CA. (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 1:05 AM)

To Danny. I don't understand what you mean by miserable care in the VA. I receive top medical at the two VA hospitals I visit. And I receive a disability check each month without a hitch.

Bubba Johanson, Stanford, Kentucky (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 1:10 AM)

The News will show very little good things that are happening in Iraq, because it isn't news to them. As a nation we think something negative has to happen before it becomes worthy of a News Report. The soldiers are following their orders which is Honorable. We forget sometime, what a great life we have in the USA. This is a great country and is worth fighting for. Like all wars, everybody forgets all the sacraficing all branches of our Arm Forces does for our nation after a few years goes by. We should teach our young children that it is a Honor to serve your Nation and protect it from harm. I'm sure that if we weren't fighting in Iraq we would be fighting in our on back yards. God Bless our Nation and thoughs who protect us.

Tommy Gill, Palm Desert Ca. (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 1:14 AM)

in response to Gina, or anyone in her situation:
Talk about the little things.  Local news.  Who got married, who graduated.  Keep it light.   When you are over there, certian things you will talk about, other things, you would just rather leave there.  It sucks that you are missing things back home, but it's even worse when no one even remebers to tell you about them.  The best part of calling home, is connecting with home.  For a few minutes, you aren't the soldier, you are the child, the husband/wife, brother/sister.  You are allowed to step out of where you are and reconnect.  A lot of the time a soldier will find someone that they can confide in there who they know will understand what is happening there, but they depend on you to understand what is happening with the rest of their life.  Or, at least, I know that was how I felt.

Sarah, Anaheim, CA (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 1:52 AM)

For the concerned Marine Mom, Gina -- if you have not been to Marine Moms Online, check out this website: http://www.marinemomsonline.net/ The forums have dozens (hundreds?) of Marine Moms, including my own (handle "Ellenville"). These women have been through every aspect of their sons' careers; some of them are also married to Marines. They can provide useful, accurate advice and guidance on every topic I've ever asked about.

Rick (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 3:54 AM)

To the Viet Nam Vets and all vets Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.  I am a sister to one.  When my brother came home from Nam in the 70's after his ship the USS Higbee was blown up we hitchhiked to Big Sur and to this day he said it was the best thing I could have done for him.  I was blown away when I saw old pictures on the internet years later that showed me what bad shape the Higbee was in when it limped into the Phillipines for repairs.  Expect your loved one to downplay what action they see or saw in war. Let me tell you if I hear anyone degrading any vet I am quick with my mouth immediately to tear those people down in a loud way in public.  I ran a man out of a store to the applause of about 10 people in the 70's, and I would do it again today. Never forget that these vets are our brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, cousins, friends. I saw our wounded vets in the late 70's at Palo Alto VA Hospital and their care was awful, their spirits gone, they were ignored by the public so don't let this ever happen again.  When Iraq war started my brother became really opinionated, obsessed, and outspoken about what was happening in Iraq.  I asked him in a tender way if he was sleeping ok and he said he wasn't and I told him to turn off the news because he was powerless to change the war.  He realized that now 30+ years later a bit of post traumatic stress was setting in.  I let him talk and he turned off the news cause it made him highly irritable.  So if any of these vets from the past or present have this irritable appearance just listen and you will learn so much.  Open a door for them, invite them to dinner, invite them to camp, fish, have small family and friend get togethers, buy their meal if you see them in a restaurant, ask them if there is anything they really want to do, and thank them.  If you see them isolating themselves get them help with post traumatic groups at the VA.        

Kathy (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 4:35 AM)

These soldiers deserve respect for having suffered for their country. My quarrel is with the politicians who get enormous salaries, while  we the poor Americans barely survive on the falling dollar! The soldiers do what they are told. Some do more than what is required. But I scorn those Americans who go to parties and then drunkenly ride Humvies at home, ignoring the cries of millions who barely survive and whosee their children suffer hunger, in Minesota, Ohio, Colorado, New Hampshire, all the states! These are the cowards, in contrast to our brave soldiers!

Bohdan Szejner (Sent Thursday, March 06, 2008 4:48 AM)



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