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JULY 4, 2008

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Enjoy the time with your families, yet please keep in mind the countless others that will be fighting to protect our freedoms and way of life here in America. Take the time in your celebrations this 4th of July to remember those that gave their lives so valiantly, and those that will continue to do so in this pursuit of freedom we hold so dear about this great nation of ours.

Keep in mind the lofty ideals that we have as a nation, and how countries around the world look up to us for our freedom.

FREEDOM

Wishing all those who are not with their families

a SAFE AND SPEEDY RETURN

Glenn Reed

Viet Nam era Veteran, 1965-1969

We are dedicating this page to our military men and women who are currently serving our country in the armed forces, and to those who have served in the past.

Due to other email requests we have received, however, we find it necessary to specify that this page is to honor our troops & veterans. We will not post anti-war, political beliefs, religious aspects, graphic photos or other personal agendas on this page.

We started these pages to support the troops and their families in the hopes that in doing so, we would be able to shed some light on the real happenings that the news media never accurately reports. In doing so, it was our intention to bring to light the many good deeds that these young soldiers are doing OUTSIDE of their normal military duties. Many have taken on personal projects within the community that they are stationed, to help rebuild this war-torn country.

For those of you reading this, if you have a friend or family member in the armed services, we'd be proud to post a photo and short biography about him or her on this page, as well as anything you feel comfortable saying about his/her situation and where he/she is stationed or a little background about his group, without revealing anything of a sensitive nature. We will also screen the information we receive to be sure of this.

This Support Our Troops page has drawn a lot of people out of their shells that have shared a lot of wonderful stories. It has also given a lot of them a place where they can express their fears and worries about what is going on. It has been a great healer for some. Myself included. (Glenn)

Please email us at: whatnext@sccoast.net with your photos and information!

UPDATE June 1, 2008

This is Nathan and his dad Dann on the flight deck, a special arrangement for families to share the experience of Navy life with their children in the military:

6/4/08 Note from father Dann: Nathan is back at Miramar, and doing well. The ground keeps moving on me. Nathan's terminal leave starts on the 27th. He will be coming home, and his last day is on the 10th of August. Here is another picture of Nath and I on the deck of the Tarawa, and a sunset.

Marine Nathan's birthday photo from November 2007. Stay safe, Nathan.

7/24/08 HAPPY 99th BIRTHDAY, JOHN!

04/06/08 All those on this page are heroes. Then there are superheroes. The following story tells Daniel's experience of meeting these two military heroes, two of the most renowned veterans in existence.

Mr. John Finn and Daniel

Lieutenant John William Finn (born July 23, 1909) is a retired Naval officer who received the Medal of Honor in recognition of heroism and distinguished service during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 12/7/41.

He is the OLDEST LIVING MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT, and also the ONLY LIVING PEARL HARBOR DAY MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT.

Daniel writes: Mr. Finn only lives about 70 miles from me here in San Diego, so I thought it would be nice to see him. He was a Navy Chief stationed at Pearl Harbor when the attack happened. He is now 98 and pushing 99. He’s in great shape and a wonderful person to visit and listen too, quite an honor (like putting his medal on him for the photos!)

Mr. Frank Buckles and Daniel

Frank Buckles is the

LAST LIVING U.S. World War One veteran

Born February 1, 1901. He was awarded the French Legion of Honor.

========================

The significance of Mr. Finn's Medal of Honor and his bravery, and Mr. Buckles' meritorious long service is to be admired by anyone that would read of his exploits. We ex-military and current military are in awe of people who have gone the extra mile for our country AND fellow soldiers.

Glenn

===============

“Dear Glenn and Heidi,

I am so happy that we can share our thoughts on fellow and current military personnel who are both inspirational and role models for all Americans. I was very fortunate to meet two people I feel are true heroes and both Mr. John Finn (age 98) and Mr. Frank Buckles (age 107) are two of them.

I joined the Navy at age 17 in 1992 and have been in nearly 16 years now. I started off as a Navy Corpsman and spent time overseas in Japan working at the hospital there and then back home at Camp Pendleton being a medic for the Marines—an honor that I’ve always been proud of (trivia: one of the men on the Iwo Jima flag-raising monument, John Bradley, was a Navy Corpsman too—the others were all Marines of course.) I spent four and a half years as a Corpsman and then went to OCS and became an officer. I’m now a Lieutenant Commander and will hopefully make Commander before I retire at 20 years at age 37.

Now, on to the IMPORTANT guys :) I first met John Finn about a year and a half ago. It was so fun to go up there and visit him in Pine Valley. He has a person that helps him out, but in general he stays out tinkering with his refrigerators and all sorts of other contraptions that keep him busy all day—and FULL days at that. How he keeps going is beyond me as he approaches his first century mark, but he does. He is a wealth of knowledge and loves to talk about the heroes HE KNEW that fought in WWII. He has a piece of Japanese silverware (a large bowl) that he obtained and other interesting artifacts, such as a piece of the actual USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned Naval warship—still in commission) that the workers gave him in the 40s when it was being refurbished and preserved.

Of course the most interesting artifact he has is his Medal of Honor. This is our nations eldest living recipient—not an “award”, but something you receive for bravery of the highest magnitude—of the medal and the last one from Pearl Harbor on the day of infamy to be with us. He will gladly tell you his account of what happened that day and to hear it in person is very poignant and moving. He is such a great man and entertains servicemen visitors daily—to them making the short 150 mile round trip is nothing, compared to being buoyed up by this gentleman who thanks THEM for their service, LOL.

The second hero I loved seeing and is still with us today is Frank Buckles. Now, he has the honor of being OUR ABSOLUTE LAST LIVING World War ONE (yes I, not II!) veteran. He is 107 years old, but just as sharp as can be. Just a few weeks ago he visited the Oval Office to meet President Bush, who thanked him for his service. Mr. Buckles delighted the press corps with his charm and sharp wits. He joined the Army at age 16—just a boy—and ended up driving an ambulance overseas in France. He served on the battlefield doing this and though thankfully was not handed a rifle and told to hit the trenches as the kid that he was, he did a dangerous job and we are lucky he made it out of there.

He will tell you of meeting famed WWI general John “Blackjack” Pershing in the 20s and how interested the general was in how close the two lived to each other in their respective home towns. Mr. Buckles is proud to represent all of the fallen and departed WWI veterans and when he is gone—that is it, no more WWI veterans—a true end of an era. Will it go unnoticed? Will we have a state funeral for him to commemorate ALL of the WWI veterans? I hope so—the past is just as important as the present.

I would encourage any young kid—or adult young at heart and patriotic—to try and see one of these two gentleman (one on each coast :) if you can. Reading about history is not bad, but having people with near (or greater than) century memories tell you about it personally is much more impacting and lasting. Either way they are two heroes of mine and am so proud to have met them both...

Best,

Daniel Kinske, LCDR, USN
San Diego, CA

3/18/08 Glenn & Heidi,

I just got off the phone, as I ordered a necklace for my son’s birthday. I then went back to the website and clicked upon the “Support our Troops” button….whew….. a few past recollections as well as a couple of shed tears for some of the times past gone and I am back to reality. I certainly appreciate what you are doing as…Americans….showing that you do care and that no matter what happens…we all should support those that are doing what they all believe in.

I served 21 years in the Navy, and I’d do it again if given the opportunity. After 21 yrs….32 Countries and 36 States…. I’m still continuing to appreciate how Blessed I am…..to be an American.

I was born in Seoul , South Korea and spent several years in an orphanage. Was adopted at the age of 4. Naturalized at the age of 7. Joined the Navy at 17. Worked hard…. Got my clearances….Secret/Top Secret… Worked towards my goals and aspirations. Slowly climbed the ranks until I achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Retired after the last 4 yrs of being a Navy Recruiter in 2004.

When I first retired I thought about the Navy probably 20-30 times a day. Each year it slowly dwindles down……. Now…… I suppose I’m down to about …….. 5-6 times a day. J I loved the teaching aspect of it. (Of course I HAD to be the one teaching..LOL)

Again,… thank you!

Chris, Marco Island, Florida

Chris - Our thanks for taking the time to share your kind words and your interesting history. You are welcome to add more any time you see fit. Keep writing!

3/19/08 CHAD & ASHLEY

Glenn - Both of my grandfathers were in Vietnam. I've heard the stories of how the soldiers were treated when they returned home, and I think it's horrible.

Sadly there is something similar happening in Berkeley, CA. I'm sure you probably have seen something of it on the news. They are banning soldiers and their families from their city. It makes me sick to my stomach and also very angry that we {and you guys} have sacrificed so much and yet these people are ungrateful. A friend said there was a small newscast on it saying they are going to cut government funding from their city. So. And in my opinion it serves them right. Crazy crazy mess. Of course a lot of things seem to be going crazy these days.

There are no words to describe the pride and love we all feel though, that's for sure. :)

And we both want to thank you first and foremost {along with everyone else who has served with you and before you} for your service, dedication, and courage. :) {And Chad says that it is his pleasure, he feels honored to be a part of a brotherhood of some of the most courageous men and women, past and present.}

We are going to be trying to start a family when Chad returns from this deployment and honestly it is scary imagining what our children's future could be like. But then again, it could all turn out better than we all think. We like to have 'the glass is half full' type of attitude about everything. Life is too short to not enjoy it, you know? :)

Chad is from a small town in southern Louisiana, called Jennings. He is 32 years old and very happily married. He is a proud member of the US Army and he is currently serving in Iraq. Currently he is a Bradley Mechanic, but he has recently re-enlisted to go into Aviation. Of which he is very excited about and also happens to be a dream of his. He has been in the military for eight years to date, and is considering becoming a "lifer". He enjoys protecting our country and he loves his family very much. He loves spending time with his wife, art, music, watching movies, motorcycles, fixing up cars/trucks, drawing, traveling, and many many other things. He's a wonderful man and a true hero.

Truly,

Ashley & Chad

Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light."

1/7/08 Comments from another Veteran:

GLENN:

I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT YOUR SITE AND IT IS REALLY NICE. IT WOULD TAKE A
WEEK TO LOOK AT EVERYTHING THAT YOU HAVE.

BUT, WHAT I AM REALLY REALLY PLEASED TO SEE IS YOUR "SUPPORT OUR TROOPS".

THERE ARE A LOT OF PEOPLE THAT ARE 100 PERCENT BEHIND OUR MILITARY AND I
AM PROUD TO SAY THAT I AM ONE OF THEM. FROM WHAT I READ YOU ARE THERE IN
THAT 100 PERCENT PLUS ALSO.

I WAS IN THE USAF FROM 1 NOV. 1955 TO 31 OCT. 1959. I WILL BE 74 YEARS OLD ON 14 JAN. 2008, WHICH IS NEXT WEEK. I WAS READY TO DO ANYTHING IT
TOOK TO DO MY JOB THEN AND HAVE REMAINED THAT WAY ALL MY LIFE SINCE, AND STILL READY RIGHT NOW.

THE VIET CONFLICT, "WAR TO ME", WAS A REAL MESS. OF COURSE YOU KNOW ALL ABOUT THAT. I GOT SO TIRED OF PEOPLE TALKING AGAINST YOU BOYS THAT WERE
OVER THERE PUTTING UP WITH THE NIGHTMARE OF JUST BEING OVER THERE. I TRIED REALLY HARD NOT TO USE ANY BAD WORDS IN THOSE TIMES, BUT BASICALLY I
JUST TOLD THEM TO SHUT UP AND GET OUT OF MY FACE, AND THAT I DID NOT WANT
TO HEAR IT.

DURING THE TIME IN THE SIXTIES WHEN ALL OF THIS WAS GOING ON I WAS WORKING FOR THE USAF TRYING TO GET A MAN ON THE MOON. BUT EVEN THEN, WE
WOULD HAVE SOMEBODY RUNNING YOU GUYS DOWN.

I COULD GO ON AND ON, BUT I GUESS I WILL QUIT WHILE I AM AHEAD.

BY THE WAY, NOW DAYS I DO SOME WORK IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM DOING SCIENCE TALKS ON DIFFERENT THINGS. IT GIVES ME A CHANGE OF PACE AND THE
YOUNG PEOPLE ALWAYS THANK ME FOR COMING.

WITH BEST REGARDS,

HENRY BEVIS
HILLSBORO, TENNESSEE

P.S. I AM SENDING YOUR SITE INFO. TO A NUMBER OF PEOPLE THAT WERE IN MY OLD AIR FORCE UNIT.

4/4/08 Update:

P.S. NUMBER TWO.. I HAVE HEARD BACK FROM SEVERAL PEOPLE THAT REALLY LIKED YOUR SITE AND WHAT YOU ARE DOING.

===================

THANKS, HENRY!!

KIM GOODWIN with children Alyssa and Oury:

Kim with Anthony, and on his favorite toy:

GOODWIN, ANTHONY L
SSGT US MARINE CORPS
PERSIAN GULF
DATE OF BIRTH: 05/28/1971
DATE OF DEATH: 05/08/2005
BURIED AT: SECTION 60 SITE 8182
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

Bronze star medal with valor, and

Purple heart medal

Click on this link to read more about his military experience:

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/algoodwin.htm

Kim contacted us at Where on Earth to order Maori fish hook necklaces for herself and her two children, also mentioning the death of her husband in Iraq two years ago. This sparked an exchange of emails and a lasting impression of who her husband Anthony Goodwin was, and what he and his family have sacrificed and will continue to do for the rest of their lives.

=====================

September 20, 2007

Glenn and Heidi,

I want to thank you both for realizing the depth that military families are faced with on a daily basis. If it wasn't for men like yourself who have served our country, and previous conflicts, we wouldn't be here today living in this great nation. The United States of America. My husbands name was SSgt. Anthony L. Goodwin.

USMC

KIA 05/08/05 Al Quam, Iraq

(died Mothers Day)

We will enjoy your necklaces forever

Semper Fidelis, The Goodwin Family

Terry,

I was sitting here at my computer when your email came in. The picture of you all and your short bit of info really got to me. It has taken several minutes for me to clear my head in order to write you back.

It was our pleasure in sending you these necklace mementos makes what we do more than just selling "stuff" and our website one with a heart. By no means do they convey all that we have spoken about, but I would hope they will always be a reminder in a small way that there are people out there that really and truly appreciate what you and your family have lost. The sacrifices that you families of FALLEN HEROES have and will continue to make for the remainder of your lives cannot be taken lightly.

I never had a mother that I could celebrate "MOTHER'S DAY" for, but for the remainder of my life I will pause on this special day and remember your husband and his family, as this being his K-Day. I thank you for sharing this part of your family story with us.

Your husband, and the children's father has paid the ultimate price for our freedom and way of life that we all enjoy here in America. It's because of people like Anthony, who believed in his convictions and followed them to the end of his life that we are a free nation. Without these brave men and women, I fear for where we would be today.

We will post this on our "Support The Troops" page on our web site as I mentioned to you in our telephone conversation earlier in the week. Thank you for allowing us to share your family's story with the rest of the FREE WORLD.

Kindest Regards,

Glenn Reed

Glenn,

After reading your email, and a box of tissue. I would like to add a little bit more information. SSgt. Anthony Goodwin was 33 years old. Born on Memorial Day. He served 14+yrs in the Corps and died doing what he loved best. He was a GRUNT. He was on his third tour in Iraq. Serving in Desert Storm, OIF 2003 and 2005. I wish people could only have a glimpse into Military life and see that death isn't the only sacrifice that we make. It's just the end or final result. We have Wounded, PDS, Agent Orange and I'm sure the list goes on. Me and my family get by with the word of God. Even in the darkest of time his light shines bright. May God continue his work through you and Heidi and may your company continue to bless many. I printed out your letter and added it to the stack of card and emails and letter from true Americans that care. When that day comes, the day my son wants to know about his father and what he stood for. He will be able to read all about it. Thank you...

Sincerely,

Kim Goodwin

Proud Wife of SSgt. Anthony L Goodwin

Kim,

Thank you for your very kind words. I am sure we will be speaking more as time goes on. This has been a very emotional day for us all. I am sure it took a lot strength on your part to tell us your story. Our hearts go out to you all.

Yes, when the day comes for your son to know who his father really was, will be a day that you have lived for. You will have so many wonderful things to tell him and share that you have treasured all these years. We are honored to be part of that history for you and your family.

Warm Regards,

Glenn & Heidi Reed

Long-time friend Kristen has sent us this picture of her with her Paul on his departure to Iraq January 14, 2007:

LCpl Paul Shively

United States Marine Corps

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

Currently deployed to Iraq (Until August 2007)

Stay safe, Paul.

Wendy, stationed in Iraq, works at constructing structures. Her son is back home in New Hampshire, looking forward to a good Christmas with his dad & grandparents except that his mom won't be there this year. We hope a few extras in the package Wendy ordered from us will make this a special Christmas for him anyway:

12/22/06 - From Glenn to: Wendy:

Happy Holidays to you and the entire family. Now there is such a clear understanding behind your picture. It sounds like you have a lot of interesting aspects to your daily life in the military.

Thank you very much for the info. It's our hope that we can paint a true picture of just what this war really is costing the American people. It's just not in terms of "DOLLARS", but the biggest cost is what it's doing to the families that are serving in the different branches of the military. I hate this syndrome of the general public "OUT OF SIGHT OUT OF MIND".

We have been contacting so many corporate people attempting to get donated items for you troops that should have been supplied before your deployments. Most attitudes are that they will only give a 5-10% discount for any orders that we would like to place. They are all making big bucks off this war, but can't seem to make a direct donation of their products that would benefit you folks directly.

I guess what I need to do next is to start a posting of contacted companies and start a boycott of sorts.

We support you all and we want to you return safe to your families. We want you all to know that you are making a difference in the service to your/our country. Yet, what we want you all to understand more than anything else is that you don't have to blindly follow orders that you know in your hearts that are wrong. We need more of you front line people speaking out. Telling your side of the story.

Heidi and I want you and your family to know that we hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and that as a family you will all be together real soon.

One last question, how much longer is your tour of duty?

Maybe we can get a picture of your son and husband at Christmas that we can post along with your current info. This will really put a very personal touch to your wonderful story. Thanks.

Season Greetings,

Glenn & Heidi

===============

12/22 from Wendy to Glenn:

Hi Glenn, Heidi,

Thanks for all the questions. It's another good mark on your part that you are trying to help people see the personal side of this conflict.

I have made the military my career choice, and I've been in 12 years, so I'm a fairly young tsgt-below the average anyways. I personally am in the structures career field, so I do carpentry, welding, sheet metal and masonry. Right now at our location in Balad AB, Iraq, my shop is erecting a shelter for one of the Army's assets; it's the biggest fabric shelter erected by any shop in the USAF. Normally these kinds of projects are contracted out to civilian companies. So, we do support type of things for the war. We maintain the base assets as far as the facilities and any improvements or requirements. I'm not a single parent, I am married to another military member and he is part of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal career field, and he is also a career airman with the rank of TSgt. :)

My son is a little soldier at heart, but he is having a tough time with me being in Iraq-as he gets older he understands more, so its a little scarier for him. He arrived at my parents house yesterday and is excited for the holidays. We're pretty disappointed that it doesn't look like I'm getting home for the holidays, but my husband is making his way to my parents also. He just graduated from the Non Commissioned Officer Academy, which is a professional school. I should be heading there shortly after i get back myself.

Happy Holidays!

Wendy

=============

12/13/06 from Glenn to: Wendy,

We are both so glad that we were in a position to make a little boy's Christmas so special this year. Thanks for allowing us to do this on your behalf.

We are trying to show the general public that there is a very personal face to this war and that there are people right in their own back yards that are paying a very dear price for this fight for democracy. Which, by the way, they are all enjoying. In doing so we hope to raise the awareness of this conflict to a point that there is more support to resolve this situation and get you all back home with your families.

So when we do another posting of a "SUPPORT THE TROOPS" it is our very strong belief that we are making a difference in people's lives, and in turn a difference for the entire world.

If at all possible is there more information of a general nature that you are at liberty to share with us about your particular support mission that you and your outfit are involved with. Keeping in mind that your exact location not be mentioned, nor anything of a critical nature that would put any of you in harms way. We need to add a story to you and your son's beautiful pictures that you sent us. Are you by the way a single parent by any chance ? Are you going top make the military a career choice ? I see where you are holding the rank of tech. sergeant (BY USAF RANKING) How long have you been in the service ?

Kindest Regards,

Glenn

PS: Have a wonderful holiday, knowing in your heart that THE PERSONAL SACRIFICE THAT YOU MAKING IS APPRECIATED.

-----------------------

12/13/06 from Wendy to Heidi!

Here are a couple pictures (above). I hope they are what you were looking for, but if not, you can see who you've helped out. :) I can't tell you how much I appreciate what you have done for our holiday. Thank you so much.

The first one is myself and my son, and the other two are of me working here.

Happy Holidays!

Wendy

THANKSGIVING DAY REMEMBRANCE

This message is for Lt. Mack and all her fellow troops, and to ALL THOSE THAT ARE SERVING that cannot be with their families this year. Our heartfelt thanks go out to your for your contribution and sacrifice. Link below:

http://www.cpmsglife.org/tg/2006tdm1.html

IN HONOR OF

VETERANS DAY, November 11, 2006

It's that time of year once again when we set aside a little time to think and thank our fellow veterans and active duty military heroes. It's that time of year when we celebrate what a great country we have because of these past and present warriors that are serving and dying for the freedom that we all enjoy.

What I don't understand is why does it take Veterans day to get the general population to take a pause from their busy schedules to recognize what our military really affords us by their serving this great nation of ours. Why are there not yellow ribbons in every yard proclaiming the anticipated return of our troops? Why is the AMERICAN flag not flying in every yard in this country ? Why do so many wait for Veterans Day and the 4th of July to show their patriotism?

If we would show the world just how great we are every day of the year, how united we are, how strong our convictions are towards a democratic society , then, maybe, just maybe these fanatics that are so driven to remove us from this earth would realize that they are fighting a lost cause. Maybe they would see it's better to be our neighbor and share in what we have to offer, rather than to attempt to destroy what we are all about.

This world is getting smaller every day and we'd better start thinking a little more seriously about trying to get along much better with our neighbors. Whether they be right next door like Canada is to the north, Australia to the south, China to the west, India to the east, and all parts in between. We need to understand each other's cultures, religions, desires for a better life, and most importantly each others basic right to a peaceful co-existence on this earth. Then and only then will we truly be neighbors in this worldly community.

November the 7th is just around the corner, and we all know that this in the mid term elections time and that we all need to do our part. That part being, that we must go to the voting polls and do our civic duty and VOTE ! This is one of our most treasured rights that we have, and we only have this right because free men and women stepped forward over the years and fought and died fighting our enemies that wanted to take our freedoms away from us.

It makes no difference whether you are a Democrat, Republican, Independent, Liberal, Right Winger, Left Winger, Hawk, Dove, or of any other political persuasion. What matters is that you VOTE. The reason being, if for no other reason, the fact that so many veterans have given their lives and will continue to do so for your right to VOTE. You must VOTE out of respect for these brave, loyal young and old HEROES that are doing battle for us all.

Stand up and be counted, let the whole world know what a great country we are and that there is a united front here and we will not let anyone take our freedoms from us.This also goes for our own political powers that think this is their country to do with as they wish, without regards for the general population.

Thank you veterans, and all you current military personnel that are serving world wide for your continued contributions in preserving our freedom. Without this commitment on your part, I fear for what would happen to this great nation of ours. I for one will be at the voting polls first thing on the 7th, exercising my hard fought right to VOTE !!!!

Glenn Reed

Viet Nam Era Veteran 1965-1969

10/21/06

RESPECT for the FALLEN

It's with a heavy heart that I share with you the following personal experience that I just had on a return flight from my recent trip to Barrow, Alaska on the night of October 21, 2006.

While waiting to board our return flight to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina from Anchorage, Alaska, I was startled to observe the follow chain of events that made me want to cry.

The attendant had just announced that we would be boarding all handicapped people first and anyone with small children that needed special attention. The only person that went to the flight attendant for help was a young mother with three small children, all of whom appeared to be under the age of 10. She was very distraught in her manner of asking for help. It seemed like she really wasn't aware of where she was of where it was she was supposed to go. She had a dazed look about her that I have seen too many times in the past. It became very apparent to me upon noticing the item she was clutching so dearly in her arms, as to what was troubling this young mother so much.

I heard a couple behind me mention that it's people like her and her flock of kids that make it so hard on the rest of us when it's time to board the plane . They continued to make other derogatory remarks to the point that I couldn't control myself any further.

It was with great difficulty that I managed to maintain an air of civility toward these two unsuspecting people as I approached them. In a low voice I asked if either of them knew what this young woman was clutching to her breast as if her life depended on it, so dear to her that she allowed the attendant to carry her little baby rather than put it down or let someone else carry it? They said they had no idea, but found it interesting that all she could do was stand there and cry so much rather than get her little brats on the plane so we all could board.

When I told them, the looks on their faces and their inability to speak were very profound. It was as if I had told them that there lives were about to end that very moment.

I stepped away from them and proceeded to board the plane with Heidi, who had noticed and knew what had occurred.

Now on the plane, as we were about to pass by the young mother's seat, I knelt down, so as to be eye level with her, and spoke quietly for a brief moment to her.

I gently laid my hand on her shoulder, and she turned and looked me straight in the eyes and gave a small smile as if she knew me. I expressed my condolences for her recent loss and assured her that I and all my fellow Americans deeply appreciated the sacrifice that her young husband had made for us all.

She thanked me with tears streaming down her face, and in a gentle child-like voice said ''I wish other people on this plane felt the same way". I apologized for the rude couple that she must have overheard, and continued on to my seat.

When I sat down, my wife Heidi saw that I was very emotional at that moment. I told her what I had said, and we both sat there for awhile holding hands and appreciating each other and everything we have.

You see, the young mother was holding a triangular wooden box with a brass nameplate, a flag box. This box contained the American flag that had previously been placed upon her dead husband's casket at his military funeral ceremony that took place at the military installation in Alaska three days before.

This was another of our young, brave AMERICAN SOLDIERS that left his young family to go off and fight for his country, our country, and came home in a pine box.

Her life and her childrens' lives will never be the same again. The rude couple at the airport, Heidi and I will never look at life quite the same again.

It is my hope in telling you this story, that you all will think before reacting to a situation that just might not be what it appears to be. Don't be so quick to draw conclusions.

God bless America for what she stands for, and all those that have served and will continue to serve her.

WHAT IS A SOLDIER?

After the security of childhood and before the insecurity of a second childhood, we find a soldier. Soldiers are found everywhere - in jeeps, in bars, in trouble, on leave, in love and, of course, in debt.

Soldiers come in assorted sizes, weights, states of sobriety, misery and confusion. Girls love them, mothers tolerate them, the United States supports them, and somehow they manage to get along with each other.

A soldier is laziness with a deck of cards, a millionaire without a cent, bravery with a grin, and the protector of America who doesn't yet shave.

A soldier is as sly as a fox, has the energy of a turtle, the stories of a sea captain, the aspirations of Casanova, the sincerity of a liar, the appetite of a giant, and when he wants something, it is usually a pass or a stand-by, but most of all, he wants out.

A soldier is a magical creature - you can lock him out of your house, but not out of your heart. You can take him off your mailing list, but not off your mind.

You might as well give in, he's your long-distance lover, your bright-eyed good-for-nothing bundle of worry. Even so, all your shattered dreams seem insignificant when he comes to you and greets you with those innocent spoken words - "Hi Honey".

Dateline: 1968

Place: Bitburg, Germany

Author: unknown

WELCOME HOME YOUNG HEROES

Welcome home ! We shout it from the roof tops ! Yet, not everyone is hearing what they really thought they would when they returned home from duty in another very unpopular war. We are once again a divided nation as to our beliefs on whether we are doing the right thing by fighting our neighbor's fight. We are divided again as to who should or should not be fighting this war. The general feeling is that our president has failed us and is now leading us down a road that there is no end in sight. We are once again in a position that is causing our freedom fighters to question just what it is that they are doing. Is the price too great that we are paying ?

Many of you are going to spend months, if not years, in rehabilitation centers around the country, trying to put your young lives together again. There will be times when the hours of hard work and the pain will get to you. It's at these times that you will allow your mind to wander and ask the same question over and over again. Constantly seeking an answer, when all the time you know there will never be one forthcoming. That question being, was this effort worth the price I am paying now? The reason the answer will not come to you is because you already know it. There never was a doubt in your mind when you stepped forward to serve this great country of ours. You have served in a very honorable manner, and are all truly ''AMERICAN HEROES".

Set aside the right or wrong of the Bush Administration, set aside the incomplete media portrayal of the war, set aside the hostility of those Iraqi & Afghani people who see Americans as occupiers. Remember the grateful faces of the these people who now embrace freedoms they never knew before, when the "light" goes on and they finally understand what we're about. And that you were part of the reason for that look on their faces. Even one face. Never forget that. No one can take that away from you.

I, for the past 38 years have had many a nightmare about my service in the Viet Nam situation, and wonder why the American people treated us so poorly when we came home, and have for countless years since then. Yet, you reach a point in your life when you say to yourself, no matter what they think of me and my military service, I did do the right thing, and I can live with myself for doing so. Then life will have a different meaning to you and you will tend to heal all those old wounds and become a better person for all what you have gone through. I am not saying it's going to be an easy task, you will battle with this loss everyday, but in the end, you will always know in your heart that your decision to serve our country was the correct one, no matter what the personal price that you paid, due to this decision.

This is what makes our nation what it is and why we have such a strong commitment to see that we are a free people, and that our neighbors will have those same freedoms. As long as there are people being held against their will, and ruled in the fashion as we see it today in many parts of the world , we will never truly be free. So, it's because of the dedication of every AMERICAN that has ever served in the military that we will prevail and continue to rid the world of tyrants, terrorists, and other peoples that will stand in freedom's way for us all.

Hold your head up proudly, walk tall, and let the world know that no matter what they think, you are an "AMERICAN HERO" and they can't take that away from you no matter what they say or think. It's the freedom that you have fought for that gives them the right to speak freely. Some day they will come to realize this simple fact, and then and only then will they realize just what price you have paid for their freedom. That will be the day that we will all hug our neighbors, and lay down our arms and live as a peaceful community the world over.

So the answer that you are seeking is a simple as this, Yes! the price you paid and countless others paid these past 200+ years, since we fought the English for our freedom, has indeed been worth every drop of blood spilled on the many battlefields here and abroad.

I thank each and everyone of you for your sacrifices, and wish you well for the remainder of your life. You have all made a difference, and I for one, stand and salute you, as AMERICAN HEROES.

9/13/05

After a 3 year tour in Kosovo, Iraq and Iran, I ran across your website. Awesome to say the least. A couple of questions if I may.

I'm interested in a shark tooth necklace. I planned to take a trip down, but unfortunately I'm in rehab learning to walk........but be assured when I am up, I will be there to thank you in person (if the job is feasible).

Sincerely,

Ssg. Dean Parent United States Army.

9/16/05 from Glenn to Dean:

Welcome home young man !!!! Thank you for your sacrifice and duty to "OUR" country. I am sure at this time you are wondering if the price you have paid is too much for the sake of freedom. Rest assured, you are not alone in this feeling. We who have served, all at one time or another have had these same feelings. This is just a natural reaction due to the results of your serving. Don't think for a moment that your life is any less valuable now because of your service to this wonderful country of ours. You are a "HERO", and nothing less will ever describe you better for the rest of your life. It's with pride that I salute you today and for the rest of your life. Thank you for doing your part for keeping this a free nation.

I, for the past 38 years, have had many a nightmare about my service in the Viet Nam conflict, and wonder why the American people treated us so poorly when we came home, and have for countless years since then. Yet, you reach a point in your life when you say to yourself, no matter what they think of me and my military service, I did do the right thing, and I can live with myself for doing so. Then life will have a different meaning to you, and you will tend to heal all those old wounds and become a better person for all that you have gone through. I am not saying it's going to be an easy task, you will battle with this loss everyday, but in the end, you will always know in your heart that your decision to serve our country was the correct one, no matter what the personal price that you paid, due to this decision.

I wish you well in you rehab, and just know that there are a lot of people out here supporting you in ways that you can't even imagine. We are paying taxes to support the facilities that you are in, and the salaries of the staff taking care of you. So even those that are against the war efforts are still supporting it one way or the other.

Hold your head up proudly, walk tall, and let the world know, that no matter what they think, you are an AMERICAN HERO and they can't take that away from you no matter what they say or think.

I would like to post a picture of you and your bio on "SUPPORT THE TROOPS PAGES" on our web site, much like we have done for countless others that have served. This is not only a tribute to you and your sacrifice, but it also put a face on the war that others need to know about. If we don't tell our stories they will never know, the real story of what's going on.

Glenn

9/21/05 Glenn and Heidi - I wish I were in better health, I'd love to come to visit the "showplace" as I'm sure it's quite a place. But You also remember that anytime you are up in the area, that there's a warm bed and board here for you - as I tell all of my military brothers, this is your home as much as it is mine.

My chest is healing, but I'll be going in for surgery again in November.....seems like the itching will just be stopping before they want to go in again. I can't thank you enough, you make the term "American" what it's supposed to be. There aren't enough of us out there right now it seems. But I saluted every civilian that clapped and honored us home...The first tears I cried were brought on by their cheers of thanks. Well, I've yapped on enough, and I'll be sure to send you a picture of me wearing the shark tooth necklace when it arrives. Until then here's a photo of me from prior to my second Tour.

With Sincere Regards,

Dean

TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS

Fourth of July 2005

It was 36 years ago on the 4th of July 1969, that I was discharged from the Air Force after serving my 4 year enlistment. I have toured the world, compliments of Uncle Sam, and saw some 44+ countries in doing so. Some, that I might say, I have never been back to, nor care to for that matter. Yet my being in the military was a real learning experience. Many of those experiences have led me to be the person that I am today. Good or bad, the military did give me a well-rounded education. I am sure each and every one of you know the true meaning of this statement, as those that have never served this country will never know. I salute each and every one of you on this special day.

I send you all my greetings on this day of celebration of our Independence with a heavy heart, as you are not as free as I am to truly celebrate with your loved ones here at home. Yet, my heart is filled with the joy of knowing that you too have stepped up to the challenge of serving this great nation. We know it is not always an easy task in doing so, but it is one that needs to be done if we are to live in a free society, one with the knowledge, that we have every right to express our feelings without the fear of a loud explosion in our ears from being shot for doing so. We are a very privileged society here in America, and too many times we tend to forget the sacrifices of those before us that have given us this Great Nation to call our home.

So my fellow comrades in arms, be safe, take care, and come home soon. Those that are not fortunate in doing so, that have paid the supreme price for our freedom, you will always have a special place in our hearts, and will be honored throughout time as fallen heroes.

God Bless you all, and I pray for your safety.

Glenn

5/26/05 from Glenn to Wizard,

Thank you, for the " WELCOME HOME BROTHER " just doesn't sound like enough, but it's one of those words that hold a whole host of meanings. I thank you for taking the time to make one of many forgotten veterans of that terrible mistake of a war, feel like maybe we did do some good after all. It's never too late to thank someone for doing their part, whether it was a right or wrong war. This will always be a subjective view by both sides of the debate, and I am sure this one will never be decided in our lifetime.

I have for years wondered where these hateful "AMERICANS" ever ended up. The ones that spat on us, that disrespected us, and those that were in positions to make it very difficult for us to re-enter main stream America and enjoy the good life . The good life made possible BY WHAT WE IN THE MILITARY DID. Then one day it dawned on me, WHO CARES!!! They were and are just another example of what this great country is all about. No matter what your views are about anything, we have the freedom to express that without the fear of being shot for doing so. This being the case , makes me even prouder of the fact that I did step forward and "JOINED" (not drafted), the military to fight for all the principles our founding fathers stood for.

Yes, we will post your links and by all means feel free to post our link to your two web sites.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day week end. It's always a hard day, but one that needs to never be forgotten. I visited the " WALL" last month while I was in Washington, and was still amazed by the numbers that visit on a daily basis. The new memorials for the WWII , Korean , and women vets are just wonderful examples of what good people are all about.

Thanks again for the "WELCOME HOME ".

Kindest Regards, Glenn

U.S.A.F. 1965-1969

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5/11/05 from Wizard:
Comrade Glenn,
I'd like to give you a long, long overdue WELCOME HOME BROTHER!
Like many of the posted contributors on your Support the Troops page of your website, I also stumbled upon your home page by accident. I was sitting here at work in my office on the West Coast when a fellow employee asked me about shark bites. Because I was born and raised in California, I spent most of my healthy years surfing and proceeded to share some stories which led to me typing the words "Shark Bite Photos" into my search engine. Well of course one link always leads to another which led me down the lucky path to you. As soon as I read the words "Support Our Troops" all work in my office stopped while I read each and every e-mail you had posted. As you will see from my "sign off" at the end of this mail, I hold a couple of offices for different parts of the largest Veteran Organization in the United States...The American Legion. While reading, I gathered that you are a Veteran who served during Viet Nam. I am too, so that is what prompted the belated Welcome Home. On behalf of myself, Post 161 and my Chapter of the American Legion Riders...we thank you, not only for your service to our country back in the day, but also for the support you have given our Troops now, in the hopes that they will never have to return to be "greeted" in the manner that the Heroes of our generation did.
While I'm short on time at the moment, I did want to get this letter off to you before I left this evening. I also invite you to click on the two links provided so you can enjoy and appreciate some of the GOOD STUFF the media conveniently neglects, that Americans like you and I do to keep the Dream of Freedom alive. I'd like to ask your permission to post your link on our web site and if you'd like you can do the same with mine. I own and maintain both of them. I'll be looking forward to hearing from you and maybe we can get something going more in support of our men and women who are proving FREEDOM ISN'T FREE!!!

Bob "Wizard" Scudero
Commander Post 161
President ALR-CA Post 161 District 9

www.rolling9s.com
www.wizrd.com

5/26 from Glenn to Nell,

Thank you for your contact and we would be very proud to add your son to our long list of young men and women serving our country at this very difficult time.

As far as any support groups in your area, we are not aware of any. It really upsets us when we find such poor support for our troops. Even the military themselves have failed the families in the support area. There should be a group on every military base, and yet we hear from families all the time that there isn't.

Our hearts go out to you and all parents, and we hope that what we are doing does make a difference. Feel free to contact us any time and share your thoughts and experiences as you serve along with your sons tour of duty, as you are just as involved as he is.

Good luck , and keep up your spirits, there are a lot of people out there behind your son, and we all are praying for his safe return.

Kindest Regards, Glenn

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5/26 to Glenn from Nell:

My son is a Marine stationed in Fallujah. His reserve unit is from San Antonio, TX, but I live in Laurens, SC and know of no support groups here. If you have any contacts in the Greenville/Greer/ Laurens area please let me know how they are. I would like to be involved in supporting our troops.

Thank you,

Nell Smith

Above is a photo of Chris and the fellas out at camp. Chris is in the middle.

3/31/05 Chris Simon is away in the Middle East with his unit in the military. He ordered a custom necklace from us with 10 shark teeth on it (see photo below) which we just mailed to him.

We also wrote him the following:

We would be very honored to set up a page on you as we have done with the others that are listed there. A picture and bio info about you would be very interesting . A short bit about how you came across our web site, and why you liked that necklace we designed for you, and any other information that will tell the folks back home a little about you and what you are doing in the Middle East. Remember to be careful in describing your exact location, or other critical information about your companies movements, and duties. Just the safe stuff. There is a lot of support back here for you folks, so don't let the news media fill your heads with crap about what is happening here at home. There will always be people against any war, but the general population is behind you 100 %. Don't ever forget that.

Signed, Glenn

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04/06/05 From Chris:

Glenn,

I just saw the necklace you made for me…it’s prefect! Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you for specially making it for me, I know it must have been difficult for you. I plan to gets some pics together soon and write you with my stuff before I leave here. Once again great job on the necklace and I cant wait to get it, I appreciate everything you have done for me Sir.

Take Care,

Chris Simon

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4/6/05 From Glenn:

Chris,

It was just my small way of saying thank you for being a stand up type guy and doing the right thing by serving your country. Many before you have done the same, and a lot have paid the supreme price of doing so by the loss of their lives. Its young men like yourself, that by serving in the military, are telling the rest of those that don't, that you have paid tribute to those that have before you. Its an honor for me to have done this necklace for you.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, you are a true American !!!!!!

Go in peace and be safe,

Kindest Regards, Glenn

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4/6/05 from Chris -

Glenn,

Thank you sir for the kind words, it makes the time out here seem a lot more worth it when people acknowledge what everyone is doing. I just wanted to find a way to pay respects to people like my Uncle and Grandfather who served during Vietnam and WWII. I think they if they had time to stop their lives and do this, then I can do it for them while they are retired. Once again though, sir, I appreciate the time you took to make me that necklace, its well worth the cost. I’ll definitely be looking on the site frequently now and will most likely have a new idea for you soon enough. Until then Mr. Reed, take care of yourself, and I'll speak with you soon enough.

Chris Simon

Cpt. Terry Hilt

phoned us recently from Iraq, after typing "Diet Mountain Dew" into a Google search and coming up with our website. He was puzzled at coming up with our site, but said he was looking for a source to ship a case of this to his One-Star General over their unit. They are well supplied there, but this is one item the General likes and cannot get there. Of course we were pleased to do so (whenever he requests it, for that matter), and Terry and I had a great discussion. He's promised pictures so we can help fill out the story for you.

Folks, feel free to send CD's, DVD's, and games to this unit at this address:

C.P.T. Hilt

MNC-I (G1-XVIII)

Airborne Corps Arty

APO AE 09342-1400

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4/22 Glenn to Terry

Terry,

The math adds up and you are on the right path. Being 42 with a pension is a great way to go. Sure its hard on the family, but it comes with being a military family.

Be safe and we will talk more as time goes on. Looking forward to meeting you and the family one day soon.

Regards, Glenn

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4/22 Terry to Glenn

Many a days I feel like taking the extended vacation, but haven’t gotten to that point yet! Sounds like you made the right decision. I’m probably going to stay in for 20, but still a little unsure. I got 6 years in and it’ll be 7 before I can get back. I told myself I’d decide after my battery command time, but the way that looks, I’ll have 11 years in. With that in mind what’s 9 more years for a good retirement! Sucks for the family, and they will come first, but I’ll retire at 42. Not a bad age for my generation.

We’ll defiantly have to link up when I get back!

Terry

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4/21 from Glenn

Terry,

We were only to glad to have been able to send such a small smile maker as the Dew was. I would have loved seen the look on his face.

We are still waiting for some pictures of you and your buddies, and maybe one of the old man himself. This is what inspires people to do what we do. It puts a touch of reality to what we are doing. Think about it, and see what you can come up with.

As far as my business goes, it started out as a side business while I was traveling the world as a business telephone communication/computer consultant. I was into all these cool things and I just started buying and selling. Then one day my real job was interfering with my hobbies, and I quit. I have not worked for anyone since 1981.

When I came home from South East Asia, I too was not allowed to take leave. I went right on to Germany for another 3 years. That's the military for you. So when I took enough in 1968 I took a 30 day leave and toured all of Europe. Things wouldn't have been to bad for me when I got back to the base from my little AWOL, had it not been for the fact that Russia had just invaded the Czechoslovakian Republic, and I was right on the boarder of Austria when it happened. So we were on high alert and I was in deep stuff then. It all worked out, and it only cost me 30 days in the guard house. I served from Sept. 1965 until July 1969. I will leave the rest where I did many years ago. I just don't talk about it. I think you can appreciate that.

So how long have you been in the service and what are your long range plans for the future? Are you a lifer ? Maybe when you return we can come up for a visit as we go your way on our fossil trips several times a year.

Keep safe and remember, we support you guys all the way.

Kindest Regards, Glenn

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From Terry to Glenn

First, I just wanted to personally thank you for what you’re doing! How’s life in SC? I see you run a business down there! How did you manage to get into that? I’m from Fort Bragg , but only been to the ocean 2-3 times, sucks but not much time being given to us these days. It seems like you have to fight to get your leave approved anymore and it’s not worth the hassle. Your wife said you were in the military before. When and what did you do? My father was in Vietnam (Navy) and the Gulf War (Army). I guess it runs in the family.

I accidentally found your web site trying to find companies that would ship Diet Mountain Dew to APO addresses! I talked with your wife for a good bit, and insisted on sending some. It was great to see the look on his face when he opened it up. Thanks again for that.

Well, I’m also married with two kids 4 & 8 years old. We’ve live in NC for 5 years now. It’s a great life but were always on the run! I look forward to hearing from yeah! Talk to you soon.

Terry

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4/21 from Terry to Heidi

I wanted to thank you again! We just got the package and he was thrilled! It’s a good thing to have your boss happy for a few days. He was grinning from ear to ear. I wish I could have taken a picture, but it’s not allowed where we work. I’m still working on the picture. Believe it or not it has been hard to find a picture here, but we have one on the way from the rear.

I really thank you for your support! I think we all realize more people support the troops than what is shown or portrayed. It’s just great to meet people that understand.

If anyone wants to send stuff please tell them to feel free. I’ll pass it out to some of the single soldiers out there. Really anything is good (movies, CDs, games, whatever else) it’ll all get used. No one is picky here, just happy to be standing tall & free!

Moral is still very high, but the heat is getting ready to come very soon! I think it has been getting in the 90’s the past week. That will make it rough for a while, but hey we got it better than we thought we would have. Sorry it took so long, but our computer have been up and down. Again thanks for you’re doing! When I get back next year we’ll have to link up and get some real chow!!!!!!!!

God Bless!

Terry

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3/30/05 from Heidi:

Hi, Terry -

We understand your comments on the media, we have had enough emails from you soldiers over there and news from other sources to fill in the WHOLE picture - unfortunately, good deeds do not equal media hype, violence does. You also need to know that there are a LOT more of us that support you than you may know (again because of the media). When you phoned us personally it allowed us a direct means to show that support. We don't trust second-hand giving to reach those in need.

Sure there are some that believe the hype (just remember, there will ALWAYS be a certain % who do). But our government has asked you to pass through the gates of hell, and that's enough for us to give you 100% of our support - while you're there and when you return. We perceive all the good that is being done by you to make it a better place.

Tell us more specifically what would be most useful to give to the kids there, the same as we sent to the other unit, or what? (I see that school suppl