Memorial Day Here- It's Hot In Iraq

[NOTE: Please note Brian's new address on the left; They were having a little trouble forwarding mail from their last FOB- He said this new address should take care of it.]


The average temperature in Bagdhad this week is 105 degrees. And, its not even summer yet.

Many received a phone call from Iraq over the past week. Brian called his Mom on Mother's Day and she received flowers from him on her birthday. Brian loves his mom and he's doing an unbelieveable job of staying in touch when he can.

We were humbled by the e-mail he sent last week requesting us to say a prayer for the fallen brothers and sisters this past Armed Services Day. It put things in perspective again on what is important in life- and is evidence of the patriotism and sacrifice offered by these young men and women who are serving (and have served) our country. Our outlook on many things has changed as a result of this experience.

This weekend we observe Memorial Day. I have to be honest, I didn't appreciate the significance of this "holiday" until we began living as a military family. The day has a different meaning to us today.

Memorial Day was originally proclaimed a "holiday" in 1868 as a means to remember those who sacrificed their lives in the Civil War. It continued as a Civil War memorial event until after World War I when the sacrifice of those who had given their lives in any war was recognized. That's what we observe today.

So, as we head up to our cabins, or have a day off, or do whatever we plan to do this weekend, let's take another moment to say a prayer for those who have offered the ultimate sacrifice for this country. I don't think Brian would mind if I used his words again of his request to say a prayer for "the fallen brothers and sisters who have given their life for what we have in our homes. I would ask you say a prayer for them and their families in honor of their sacrifice to our nation."

A Poem From 1915

We cherish too the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies

Semper Fi