The One Year Milestone

Well, we made it . . .

David left exactly one year ago today! I can't believe we made it!! And, I can't believe how much has happened . . . Harper was not quite 10 months old and not even walking when David left; Price was about to turn 3, and was still pretty much a "toddler" then compared to the "big boy" he is now.

This afternoon, I went to the monthly Eagle Remembrance Ceremony on post to honor the fallen Screaming Eagles (soldiers from this unit - 101st Airborne Division). There were four soldiers honored today, and all four were from our battalion, 2-506th Infantry Regiment. There is such a mix of emotions with the excitement of our guys coming home and the sadness over those that will not. The ceremony was very moving and we were able to meet some of the families and extend our sympathies. I am always amazed at their courage and their graciousness to all who attend. I hate it so that they are having to go through the pain and heartbreak they are facing right now. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

The beginning of the end . . .

The great news on our end is that David has already started his journey home! David has left FOB Orgun-E as he and our other soldiers make the long trip home from, literally, the other side of the world. This time last year, we weren't expecting him to be home until June. We feel so fortunate that our time-line changed.

Our first soldiers, those comprising the advanced party, actually arrived on Feb. 28th. I went to watch the plane land and for their "Welcome Home Ceremony." It was very exciting and very emotional - whether or not you had a soldier on the flight. Our guys have been coming back a plane at a time since then. We don't know exactly when David will arrive, yet, but we expect him within the week!!! We are just on stand-by waiting for "the call" from an automated system that will give us more information on his arrival. Please pray for their safe travels and that my nerves don't get the best of me!!! I'll keep you posted . . .