'This is dedication to duty'

Image courtesy: Cpl. Shannon McMillan

When more than 150 Marines with 1st EOD Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) gathered at Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan on December 26, it wasn't to exchange Christmas stories or make New Year's plans. With their heads bowed in front of mementos and American flags, these volunteer warriors, spending the holidays apart from their families, came together to salute two fallen brothers.

As the son of two Pittsburgh police detectives, Staff Sgt. Justin Schmalstieg grew up with "a strong sense of duty," according to an article in The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He was a deliberate, humble warrior who believed actions spoke louder than words. The explosive ordnance disposal technician showed that fierce focus as he repeatedly put his life on the line to disable roadside bombs in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Staff Sgt. Schmalstieg, 28, was killed on December 15 in Helmand province while conducting combat operations. His death hit fellow Marines hard, especially when they thought about the impact the tragedy would have on his new bride of about a year.

"Justin was a great friend, an outstanding EOD tech and was the type of husband to his wife, Ann, that would make any one of us feel inadequate as a man," said Staff Sgt. Scott Carter. "Justin, thank you for letting me be a part of your life. I am a more proficient EOD tech and a better man for having known you."

Sgt. Jason Smith "lived for the Corps," according to an article in The Colorado Springs Gazette. Fellow Marines were drawn to his loyalty, and treated Smith no differently than a blood relative.

"There are so many words that could describe Jason, but 'brother' is how I will always remember him," said Staff Sgt. Eric Olson. "Jason was an outstanding young EOD technician; he was always looking for something to learn."

Like Staff Sgt. Schmalstieg, Sgt. Smith had served two previous tours in Iraq before arriving in Afghanistan. The Aberdeen, Washington native, who eventually wound up settling with his family in Colorado Springs, initially chose a career in the Marine Corps because he wanted to see if he could get through basic training. His unwavering dedication, which was on display from boot camp all the way through his deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as an EOD tech, was staggering in its ferocity.

"The guy could have told me to do anything and I would have done it without hesitation," said Sgt. Michael Brown, stationed at Camp Lejeune, N.C. "He was just one of those people you just follow no matter what."

Sgt. Smith, 28, died on November 19 in Helmand province while conducting combat operations. As fellow warriors eulogized Smith and Schmalstieg on Sunday in Afghanistan, these brave men continued to bring out the best in the Marines who served with them.

"Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when we need to say goodbye to two of our finest young Marines," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Kelly Colton, company commander, 1st EOD Company, 1st MLG (FWD). "These were two EOD technicians that chose to push themselves to a higher level of technical ability and skill that most do not. This is dedication to duty and this shows the great character of the men we remember today."

Tonight, many of us will drink champagne and bid farewell to 2010. Yet hundreds of military families, troops, and veterans will never be able to put this year behind them, as 2010 will always be the year when they lost a friend or loved one. As the calendar reaches 2011, we honor the thousands of American service members willing to risk the best years of their lives so we can be free.


Video courtesy: Cpl. Mandy Castillo

Cities of children

Image courtesy: Spc. Chastity Boykin

South of the Euphrates River, remnants of ancient Ur sit near the major Iraqi city of Nasiriyah. Terms like dynasty, city-state, and Babylon are all part of this historic village's fabric. But today, Ur is yet another place where Iraqi children live in the painful aftermath of an age of oppression and violence.

Air Force Sgt. Luis Buot wasn't trying to make history when he recently visited what's left of the ancient city. He just wanted to extend his hand in friendship, as pictured above, in this war-ravaged community. Earlier this month, the Pemberton, New Jersey Airman and his advisory team took time to hand out clothing, playthings, and school supplies to children in the shadows of Ur's ruins.

When I worked in local and national newsrooms, I remember pieces of video and photos showing acts of kindness by our troops being derided as 'military propaganda' by some journalists. Yet before and after I started running this blog, I have read countless examples of American service members -- often at great risk to their personal safety -- insisting on taking time to help local kids. One of the last photos of Pfc. Dustin Finch, who was killed in Iraq on December 8, shows the Soldier high-fiving with a group of Iraqi children.

In Afghanistan, we are seeing the same compassionate spirit of sacrifice by thousands of volunteer warriors. On Wednesday in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand province, NATO forces pursued insurgents who murdered an Afghan civilian, and later helped a man who said that terrorists shot his daughter.

On Tuesday, The Unknown Soldiers profiled Lance Cpl. Kenneth Corzine, a heroic Marine who died on Christmas Eve of catastrophic injuries suffered on December 5. Since Christmas, three more fallen heroes have been identified by the Pentagon as killed in action in Afghanistan.

Cpl. Tevan Nguyen, 21, Hutto, Texas
Lance Cpl. William Crouse IV, 22, Woodruff, South Carolina
Sgt. Garrett Misener, 25, Cordova, Tennessee

War is ugly, controversial, and tragic. Too often, children pay the price for the stubborness of politicians and wickedness of dictators. Yet when it comes to American troops ordered to carry out difficult and dangerous missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, one fact is clear and indisputable. Our men and women in uniform overwhelmingly care about these children in harm's way, and put their lives on the line to protect them.


Note: This post was updated at 6:07 p.m. EDT to reflect new information released by the Department of Defense.

'We will never run'

Image courtesy: KTVI-TV

If you passed by Jim Corzine's house on Christmas Eve in Roxana, Illinois, you wouldn't have seen an elaborate display of lights for the holidays. The simple, poignant sign pictured above conveyed what was on his family's minds this year.

"Please pray for Lance Cpl. Ken Corzine, U.S.M.C, 12-05-10. While on patrol in Afghanistan, lost both legs & 1 arm to an I.E.D. explosion detonated by the cowardly Taliban."

Jim's nephew, who often went by Kenny, was in the midst of a courageous three-week battle against catastrophic injuries suffered in Afghanistan's Helmand province. Instead of enjoying the holidays, the Marine and his immediate family spent the morning of Christmas Eve inside Maryland's Bethesda Naval Hospital. As dark clouds and chilly pre-Christmas wind pressed against the hospital window, Lance Cpl. Corzine passed away at the age of 23, just moments after the clock struck noon.

To appreciate what this Marine meant to his family, one can look no further than the words of his grandmother, Sharon, who spoke to KTVI-TV after her grandson was wounded in combat.

"I have to believe he's going to make it," she told the local TV station. "I love him with all my heart."

The Marine's grandma knew Corzine possessed uncommon strength. He wanted to be a Marine since childhood, and despite the crushing power of that December 5 roadside bomb blast, her grandson kept fighting, from medical tents in Afghanistan to hospitals in Germany and Maryland. Unlike the terrorists who planted the bomb that ultimately took his life, this 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division warrior was full of courage, and his tragic death does not spell defeat for the Corzine family, the Marine Corps, or the United States of America.

"Our colors still fly," the fallen hero's uncle told KTVI-TV. "We will never strike our colors and we will never run."

In fact, the Taliban, an evil group that harbored Osama bin Laden after the 9/11 attacks and has a long history of murder and enslavement, will be hearing from the Corzines soon after this period of mourning. According to The Telegraph in the departed warrior's hometown of Bethalto, Illinois, Lance Cpl. Corzine's brother, Nick Corzine, is a fellow Marine. Cousins Blake Corzine and Michael Benton serve in the Marines and Army, respectively.

An article by Fred Pollard emphasizes this St. Louis area family's commitment to service, as well as the athletic talent Lance Cpl. Corzine brought to the Marine Corps. He was highly skilled in the Korean martial art of Taekwondo, and had also been scuba diving and biking off-road since he was a teenager. Along with the aforementioned family members, the 2005 Civic Memorial High School graduate leaves behind a three-year-old daughter, his parents, and another grandmother.

The sign on Jim Corzine's door serves as a reminder for our enemies, as well as an American public often portrayed by media pundits as 'war-fatigued.' Too often, journalists refer to the Taliban as some sort of legitimate entity that should be recognized or even bargained with. Yet the evil men planting bombs to kill and maim American troops and innocent Afghan civilians are in fact cowards. Thanks to valiant volunteers like Lance Cpl. Kenny Corzine, his brother, and two cousins, these terrorists can no longer murder with impunity. For every step they take, an American warrior will be waiting to deliver justice.

Image courtesy: U.S. Marines

Soldiering on

Image courtesy: CaringBridge

Like many teenage boys, Austin Williams is filled with big dreams, with joining the Army at the forefront of his aspirations. But unlike the vast majority of 14-year-olds, Austin is already fighting a life-altering battle. In April, he was diagnosed with myosarcoma when doctors found a baseball-sized, malignant muscle tumor near his pelvis.

"I still can't believe he has cancer," Austin's mother, Daelyn Larche-Sigman, wrote in July. "You just never think it will hit this close to home. Thankfully, we have such a supportive community and an incredible group of friends and family who surround us with love! For this I am grateful!"

Just before Christmas, the Army learned that an aspiring future Soldier was fighting for his life at the Rocky Mountain Hospital in Denver, Colorado. That's when troops in the Army recruiting office in nearby Aurora sprung into action. As KUSA-TV's Jeffrey Wolf and Chris Vanderveen wrote on 9News.com, six uniformed volunteer warriors showed up at the hospital to make Austin an honorary Soldier, presenting him with a certificate and dog tags.

"This has just made me very happy," Austin said. "I really love the Army. I just wanted to join the Army for so long."

It is too easy for some Americans to take our all-volunteer fighting force for granted. Hopefully, the compassion displayed by the U.S. Army to brighten the spirits of our nation's newest honorary Soldier reminds us of our military's extraordinary sacrifices and the ultimate fragility of life.

This 14-year-old boy, who should be playing ball, going to school, and chasing girls at his age, is in the midst of a struggle few teens have experienced. He is just past the midway point of an intense 54-week cancer treatment regimen that could break even the toughest of grown men. But as his mom wrote, Austin Williams is Army strong.

"This, too, shall pass...He is a STRONG young man! I hope in a few years we can look back and say 'WOW! What a ride!' And for now, I will cherish every moment with him and the rest of our family."

Image courtesy: 9NEWS.com

Note: You can follow Austin Williams' journey on the CaringBridge website.

Bowing our heads

Image courtesy: Spc. Luther Boothe Jr.

This Christmas, The Unknown Soldiers blog salutes the brave men and women in uniform serving our country in Afghanistan, Iraq, and around the world at this very moment.

We pay tribute to the military families that have an empty spot at the dinner table, but hearts full of love and patriotism.

We thank the veterans who have seen and done more in defense of freedom than many of us can imagine.

We remember the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and remind their loved ones that we haven't forgotten.

We honor our nation's fallen heroes, who in a time of war, uncertainty, and fears of terrorism, told their fellow countrymen "don't worry, I'll go."

We owe everything we have to the men and women who defend our nation. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.


Note: This video is not intended to endorse any product. It aired only once, during Super Bowl XXXVI, to honor victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Together and apart

Image courtesy: 1st Lt. Brian MacKey

It was a tough year for Capt. Steven Holmberg and 1st Sgt. Chad Blansett, pictured above in Afghanistan. The Soldiers of the 618th Engineer Support Company spent 52 weeks apart from their families and lost several friends in combat. Yet despite the pain and sacrifice, 2010 was also filled with triumph, and the 618th's mission is now complete. Capt. Holmberg, 1st Sgt. Blansett, and fellow 'Nasty' paratroopers are coming home for Christmas.

"The brave men and women of the 618th performed extraordinarily in their missions over the past year, and I am extremely proud of them," said Lt. Col. Peter Andrysiak, Task Force Lumberjack commander. "We will not forget their significant victories and contributions to the fight, nor those lost in battle."

While thrilled to be home for Christmas, some of these returning Soldiers will wake up in the middle of the night after dreaming about the unforgiving valleys of Afghanistan's Zabul province, where relative calm could be instantly shattered by explosions or gunfire.

Many of these brave warriors will be haunted by the tragic events of June and July, when their friends, Spc. Scott Andrews, Sgt. Zachary Fisher, Spc. Matthew Johnson, Spc. Jessie Reid, and Sgt. Chase Stanley were taken from them.

As Lt. Col. Andrysiak told the Killeen Daily Herald in November, his Soldiers were already mourning the terrorist attack at Fort Hood when they deployed.

"They held it together and just got stronger," he said. "They fed off other members of their company and continued to deliver phenomenal results."

At remote outposts around Afghanistan, deployed Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, and Sailors are doing their duty and wondering how their loved ones are celebrating the holidays back home. On Wednesday, the 101st Sustainment Brigade, Task Force Lifeliners, 101st Airborne Division began massive drops of food, supplies, and gifts to American troops in these isolated areas, reminding these volunteer warriors that they are not alone.

"This whole project, I think, is an expression again of how much people appreciate what Soldiers do, regardless of if they understand it or regardless of what they think about the war, they care about the Soldier," Army Chaplain Maj. Tammie Crews said.

In Iraq, which dominated the news cycle five years ago only to largely vanish in 2010, thousands of U.S. troops continue to perform brilliantly amid danger and risk. The volunteer warriors greeting their families in the video embedded below are from Virginia, New York, California, New Jersey, Alaska, and Pennsylvania. Instead of laughing with their loved ones, they are stationed at a Forward Operating Base near Baghdad this holiday season.

Since September 11, 2001, hundreds of thousands of service members have been deployed to war zones overseas. On December 25, 2010, some military families will be reunited and some will be far apart. All of these fellow Americans will be in our hearts.

When I see a gold star atop a Christmas tree this year, I will think of our nation's Gold Star families, which have suffered immeasurable, incomprehensible loss. Even amid tragedy, the holidays still stand for giving, love, and goodwill. So do the men and women who have volunteered to protect us.

Far from home

Image courtesy: Spc. Edward Garibay

On Tuesday, I had the honor of interviewing Maj. Gen. David Blackledge, Commanding General of U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command, for an upcoming Creators Syndicate column. While I can't wait to share more with you about this fine leader's incredible 35-year military journey, Maj. Gen. Blackledge said something about the holiday season that I think is important to highlight during Christmas week.

"I’ve got over 1,100 soldiers deployed right now who aren’t spending the holidays with their families," Maj. Gen. Blackledge said. "I've gone several Christmases in a row before, and you also miss birthdays and anniversaries."

For those of us who haven't served in the military, not spending special days with our loved ones is something that's difficult to imagine.

"It's hard to describe to people who don’t experience that," the general explained. "It's those special events like holidays where family is so important. It really affects you. And you’ve got to really hand it to our great Soldiers and all our great military members."

As I have written on this blog since leaving the national media, the vast majority of American journalists continue to fail their country by neglecting to give sufficient ink, airtime, and web space to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Judging by discussions I've had with journalists about this topic over the years, many reporters, producers, and news executives would likely respond by saying that it isn't their job to aid the United States during wartime. If that had been the overriding press sentiment during World War II, one could argue that defeating the brutal axis regimes in Europe and the Pacific would have been an even more colossal task for allied forces.

According to the Project For Excellence In Journalism, which is part of the non-partisan Pew Research Center, the war in Afghanistan received only five percent of news coverage during the week of December 13-19. That period includes December 14, when the nation learned the identities of six American heroes killed in a Kandahar province, Afghanistan terrorist attack.

During the previous week, which included the December 12 suicide bombing, two proud volunteer warriors, Lance Cpl. Michael Geary and Pfc. Dustin Finch, were killed on December 8 in Afghanistan and Iraq, respectively. Despite numerous events of significance, which were closely followed on this site and many other military blogs, Afghanistan coverage was even more scant during the week of December 6-12, getting only four percent of what PEJ calls "the news hole." Coverage levels of the war in Iraq did not even register in the weekly study.

The national press finds plenty of time to hype royal weddings and overanalyze celebrity mishaps, often using the drive for ratings as an excuse. While issues like the economy and health care impact millions of people and deserve ongoing attention, stories that received comparable coverage to the war in Afghanistan during this two-week span include the Elizabeth Smart case, WikiLeaks, and the deaths of longtime diplomat Richard Holbrooke and cancer-stricken political wife Elizabeth Edwards. Regardless of your political beliefs, it is clear that Ambassador Holbrooke and Mrs. Edwards were courageous individuals who did a lot of good in the world. Their deaths deserved attention and mourning, but so did the deaths of these valiant aforementioned American troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

I can't count how many holidays I spent working inside newsrooms over an eight-year span. Yet as a general reminded me yesterday, that doesn't compare to spending Christmas in a war zone. While there are still isolated examples of strong American war reporting, like a CNN special called 'A Soldier's Story' that aired over the weekend, the continuing lack of consistent focus on these post-9/11 conflicts by the national media is an insult to thousands of American troops spending the holidays apart from their loved ones.

The men and women of the U.S. military repeatedly risk their lives to preserve Constitutional principles like freedom of the press. The men and women of the national media can afford to risk a Nielsen ratings point to illustrate the breadth of sacrifice being displayed every day by our fellow countrymen. For a media industry that often revels in the failures of politicians, celebrities, and sports figures, it's time to look in the mirror.

A long December

Image courtesy: Airman 1st Class Daniel Phelps

A long December and there's reason to believe
Maybe this year will be better than the last
I can't remember the last thing that you said as you were leaving
Oh the days go by so fast

The Counting Crows song 'A Long December' isn't about war, but it was written to convey a cautious sense of optimism amid profound tragedy and change. On December 11, the Patriot Guard Riders, a fantastic organization dedicated to respecting the U.S. military and shielding families of the fallen from Westboro Baptist 'Church' protesters, brought American flags to Fort Jackson National Cemetery in South Carolina. They showed fellow countrymen that even during another painful month at war, the stars and stripes still stand tall.

It is difficult, if not impossible, for military families who have lost loved ones this month to do anything but mourn. We grieve with them, and think especially about four families in Virginia, Texas, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, which received tragic news from the front during the past week.

Spc. Sean Cutsforth, 22, Radford, Virginia
Lance Cpl. Jose Maldonado, 21, Mathis, Texas
Cpl. Sean Osterman, 21, Princeton, Minnesota
Cpl. Eric Torbert Jr., 25, Lancaster, Pennsylvania

As the Cutsforths, Maldonados, Ostermans, and Torberts bury their heroes during the holiday season, another family is searching for strength in the village of Charikar, Afghanistan. A moving article by Staff Sgt. Ashlee Lolkus tells the story of Afghan National Police 1st Lt. Faridullah, who died on December 4 while trying to disable an improvised explosive device planted by terrorists near Bagram Air Field.

"I told my husband several times to leave this dangerous job," said the widow to the interpreters. "I told him I prefer to stay home and eat nothing, but he never accepted. Now he is gone."

The commander of the U.S. Army's 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, Task Force Red Horse immediately recognized the sacrifice of this Afghan patriot.

"Faridullah died attempting to disarm an IED which my soldiers could have hit on the battlefield: he died in support of coalition efforts," Lt. Col. Dave Updegraff said. "Because he was helping the coalition, I felt it rose to the level of a hero payment."

I hadn't heard of 'hero payments' before reading this article. It is a rare gesture made by American forces to help families of fallen Afghan officers who display uncommon heroism in support of defeating the Taliban and al Qaeda.

"The money we were able to give to the widow will never replace her husband," said Updegraff. "But we hope it will help her along until the Afghan government pension kicks in."

Like Spc. Cutsforth, Lance Cpl. Maldonado, Cpl. Osterman, and Cpl. Torbert, 1st Lt. Faridullah believed his nation's future was worth dying for. His three small children will grow up without a father, but because he spent three years disabling Taliban and al Qaeda bombs, including the one that took his life, there are many American and Afghan families that still have their loved ones. It's been a long month, but without these heroes of December, next year couldn't possibly be better than the last.

Image courtesy: Combined Joint Task Force 101

Protect us

When Lance Cpl. Michael Geary woke up on December 8, it was just another day at war in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand province. The Derry, New Hampshire, Marine put on his uniform, checked his weapon, and placed his rosary beads and Saint Michael charm in his pocket before heading into combat.

"Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle," the prayer to Saint Michael, which is recited by some U.S. troops who practice Catholicism, begins. For Lance Cpl. Geary, who fellow Marines said was a very religious man, the word "us" may have had the most meaning. Lance Cpl. Ross Carter, a team leader for Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, said the 20-year-old volunteer warrior was enormously concerned about the men and women around him.

"Growing up in south Boston made him tough," said Carter. "He showed us his mental and physical toughness in combat."

Back home in New England, Geary's friends and relatives, including his cousin, are reflecting on the Marine's lifelong aspiration to serve in the military.

"I saw a Marine today and I have to say my heart totally skipped a beat," Dee Dee Antle posted on Facebook. "I thought about how proud you were to be a Marine and to wear that uniform. I'll never see that uniform and not think of you cousin."

Image courtesy: Facebook

According to the Department of Defense, Lance Cpl. Geary was killed during that December 8 patrol in northern Marjah.

"That afternoon was supposed to be just another local contact patrol," Carter said. "It serves as a constant reminder of how fragile life is and the responsibility of the U.S. Marines."

According to an article by Lance Cpl. Andrew Johnston, the Marine prayed daily for his mother, who is battling cancer. Despite the pain of being separated from an ailing loved one, Geary still took the time to comfort fellow Marines with worries of their own.

"Michael and I were together fighting side by side here in Afghanistan," Lance Cpl. Jason Earnest said. "We helped each other in every fire fight. We even slept with our bug-net-tents next to each other. He was always there for me when I needed guidance or someone to talk to. He became the big brother I wish I had when I was a kid."

On December 17, Marines gathered in Marjah, Afghanistan, to say goodbye to a warrior who was at their side since July. As they fired a 21-gun salute into the clear, ominous Afghan sky, their brother in arms was being laid to rest in New Hampshire by his loving family. The Marine prayed for his ailing mother every day on the battlefield, and now he is home by her side.

In April 1994, Pope John Paul II spoke about the significance of Michael, the Saint that Geary asked to protect his family and fellow Marines.

"Although today this prayer is no longer recited at the end of Mass, I ask everyone not to forget it, and to recite it to obtain help in the battle against the forces of darkness."

Lance Cpl. Michael Geary lived the prayer to Saint Michael. He worried about his mother, father, aunt, uncle, grandfather, and grandmother more than himself. He put the welfare of fellow Marines in Afghanistan ahead of his own personal safety.

He protected us.

Image courtesy: Lance Cpl. Andrew Johnston

'He always gave 100 percent'

Image courtesy: Finch family/The Jackson Sun

The holidays weren't supposed to be this way in Humboldt, Tennessee. Just over a week before Christmas, the quaint city's ten thousand citizens should be shopping on Main Street and enjoying Christmas decorations. Instead, the community is pondering the meaning of sacrifice and joining together to shield a grieving military family.

Words like loyalty and dedication are in the dictionary because of men like Pfc. Dustin Finch, whose given name was David. He was the MVP and team captain of the Humboldt High School football team in 2004, and went on to play college ball at Bethel University, a Presbyterian school in McKenzie, Tennessee. Yet as his wife told The Jackson Sun, he considered it an obligation and privilege to join a bigger team: the band of brothers who protect our country.

"It was something he really wanted to do — his two best friends were in the military — and we talked about it a lot," Heather Finch said. "We knew something like this could happen, but he wanted to join. He was an amazing person and touched so many lives."

Mariann Martin's article quotes Bethel Assistant Coach Chris Elliot as saying Finch was "built to be in the Army." According to the Fort Hord Public Affairs Office, Pfc. Finch joined the Army in September 2009 as a cavalry scout and deployed to Iraq in August 2010. By all accounts, the Bath Springs, Tennessee native was a fierce, yet notably compassionate warrior, as the moving above photo of the Soldier high-fiving Iraqi children shows.

Thursday evening, silence struck Humboldt as the hearse carrying the fallen hero's flag-draped casket pierced the heart of the western Tennessee city's main artery. According to the Department of Defense, Pfc. Finch, 24, was killed on December 8 in Iraq's Wasit province when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. The Soldier was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.

Having attended the procession for another American Soldier killed in Iraq this year, 1st Lt. Robert Collins, I have a limited sense of what these events mean to small, patriotic communities. The same Jackson Sun reporter, Mariann Martin, also covered this solemn event, and captured its significance with accuracy and dignity.

"He loved life — He always gave 100 percent," Spc. Tyler Howell said. "To lose one of your own brings it home."

On Saturday, the life of Pfc. Finch will be celebrated in Humboldt before he is laid to rest. Disgracefully, the Westboro Baptist 'Church' is planning to protest the departed warrior's memorial service, which has led to the creation of a 'Human Shield' to protect the Finch family from the group's well-documented hatred.

Efforts to coordinate peaceful counter-protests are coming together quickly in a special Facebook group. Sheri Pruitt, who is leading the drive to protect the mourning Gold Star family, is urging people to bring blank white poster board "to prevent the family from having to hear or see anything this group has to say while they pay their last respects to their precious loved one." Pruitt and the fellow patriots joining her should be applauded for their non-violent, compassionate efforts to combat Westboro's reprehensible disruption.

Fortunately for Tennessee and the rest of America, any efforts to distract or detract from the sacrifice of this brave volunteer will fail. Carey Craig, one of the fallen warrior's former football coaches, may have put it best.

"The thing I remember about him most is that he was fearless — nothing ever stopped him. He was the kind of guy who would voluntarily serve his country and die for his country."

What Pfc. Dustin Finch did in Iraq -- following orders, risking his life, and putting smiles on the faces of war-ravaged Iraqi children -- is more meaningful than any Christmas gift we will find under our trees this year. For this weekend and beyond, Main Street of Humboldt, Tennessee symbolizes the Main Street of America. A warrior has fallen, but those who loved him, along with the nation he served, stand strong.

Fighting for peace

File image courtesy: Petty Officer 3rd Class Juan Pinalez

During this holiday season, terrorists continue to plot murderous assaults against America and its allies. Thanks to Iraqi security forces and the U.S. troops training them, we may now have a better idea of what al Qaeda is planning for Christmas 2010.

According to The Associated Press, insurgents captured in Iraq have told authorities that planned attacks on America and Europe, including Saturday's bombing in Stockholm, Sweden, are part of an al Qaeda effort to terrorize innocent civilians during the holidays. The AP article quotes an unnamed American intelligence official as calling the information "credible."

Few of us have forgotten the tense moments of Christmas 2009, when an Islamic extremist nearly brought down a Detroit-bound international flight with explosives hidden in his underwear. Since September 11, 2001, Americans have learned to live under a heightened state of alert, as men and women in the law enforcement, intelligence, and military communities mix bravery with innovation to keep us safe. There have been hundreds of terrorism drills like the joint police-military operation pictured above, which was conducted at Naval Weapons Station Charleston in South Carolina last year.

As the threat of terrorism remains part of life on the homefront, military missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and around the world continue, regardless of the date on the calendar. According to the Pentagon, Pfc. Dustin Finch, 24, was killed on December 8 in Iraq's Wasit province when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire. While Iraq is generally a safer place thanks to the incredible sacrifices of coalition troops, grave danger remains for forces on the ground during America's mission, now called Operation New Dawn.

In Afghanistan, the names of fallen heroes are released almost every day, including six 101st Airborne paratroopers killed in a vicious, tragic Sunday suicide attack. In addition to these six departed warriors, the following nine American service members killed in Afghanistan were recently identified by the Department of Defense.

Staff Sgt. Justin Schmalstieg, 28, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Sgt. Jason Peto, 31, Vancouver, Washington
Lance Cpl. Michael Geary, 20, Derry, New Hampshire
Sgt. James Ayube II, 25, Salem, Massachusetts
Spc. Kelly Mixon, 23, Yulee, Florida.
Staff Sgt. Stacy Green, 34, Alexander City, Alabama
Lance Cpl. Jose Hernandez, 19, West Palm Beach, Florida
Spc. Ethan Goncalo, 21, Fall Rivers, Massachusetts
Staff Sgt. Vincent Ashlock, 45, Seaside, California

While many of us have grown accustomed to the post-9/11 world, dreams of peace should unite Americans of all political persuasions and religious faiths. One day, we will again experience a holiday void of armed combat in the Middle East and an increased threat of terrorism at home. Until that peaceful morning dawns, our nation fights to win.

File image courtesy: New York National Guard

'We need to come together'

Image courtesy: MyArmyReserve Blog

Just before 1st Lt. Vincent Cooper left the homefront for the front lines of the war on terror, he told The Augusta Chronicle that family was at the forefront of his mind.

"I'm mostly concerned with my wife. I'm well-trained, and I feel confident about our ability," said Cooper, who has been with the sheriff's office for three years and in the Army Reserve for about 13.

First Lt. Cooper's wife, Lisa, joined with the spouse of another deployed Soldier to lead the 359th Signal Brigade's family readiness efforts at Georgia's Fort Gordon while their husbands are away.

"We’ve had to bond with other families," she told August Chronicle reporter Charmain Brackett.

Sad family news recently reached 1st Lt. Cooper during his deployment. The Soldier's grandfather had passed away. Unlike many previous conflicts, when it would take weeks for military families to correspond by mail, the Army helped Cooper record a video tribute for his grandpa's funeral, which is embedded below.

"I feel that as a family, we need to come together and support each other at this time and in future times," 1st Lt. Cooper said from an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia. "I think it's important to teach the kids to do that as well, so that no matter what happens, we always have each other."

Delivering the eulogy for my grandfather, a World War II veteran, was probably the most difficult thing I've ever done. I can't imagine not being able to attend his funeral. But those are the kinds of sacrifices that Cooper and thousands of other American warriors make when they sign up to serve our country. We must not overlook the profundity of their commitment.

On Veterans Day 2010, a letter 1st Lt. Cooper wrote about the meaning of service was published on the MyArmyReserve Blog.

"Experiencing Veterans Day during my deployment has provided me the opportunity to consider the service of my Uncle, William Lofgren COL, USAF Retired, during the Vietnam conflict and his entire career," the Soldier wrote. "Thank you Uncle Bill, the Retiree Recalls that have suspended their Veteran status to engage in the current conflict, and the Veterans who have served in our Nation's service and continue to support today's American warrior."

While mourning his grandfather and worrying about his family, 1st Lt. Vincent Cooper and his fellow Soldiers are serving our nation with honor. During this Christmas season, we hope for the safe return of this brave volunteer and the entire 359th Signal Brigade.

Faith and spirit

Image courtesy: Sgt. Richard Rzepka

For the second time in just over two weeks, six 101st Airborne Division paratroopers have been killed in a terrorist act of mass murder in Afghanistan.

The first tragedy was November 29 in Nangarhar province, when an Afghan border officer opened fire on U.S. troops, killing six members of 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). On Sunday, six Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) were killed in action by a suicide bomber in Kandahar province.

Cpl. Sean Collins, 25, Ewa Beach, Hawaii
Cpl. Willie McLawhorn Jr., 23, Conway, North Carolina
Spc. Patrick Deans, 22, Orlando, Florida
Spc. Kenneth Necochea Jr., 21, San Diego, California
Spc. Derek Simonetta, 21, Redwood City, California
Spc. Jorge Villacis, 24, Sunrise, Florida

These six paratroopers, along with their six brothers in arms who fell on November 29, were all stationed at Fort Campbell, a massive Army installation on the Kentucky-Tennessee border. I have interviewed two Screaming Eagles in recent months, Maj. Jesse Wentworth and Sgt. Mark Foster. During both phone conversations, I could hear the pain in the voices of these brave warriors when the solemn topic of casualties was discussed. It is hard to fathom what the 101st is going through at this hour, as the nation's newest Gold Star families prepare for the most difficult holiday season of their lives.

In a November 18 Nangarhar province ceremony honoring two more fallen Screaming Eagles, Spc. Anthony Vargas and Spc. David Lutes, the commander of 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team made some poignant remarks about the character of the 101st.

"When I spoke with Bobbi Lutes and Louisa Vargas about the loss of their respective husbands, what resonated from them both was a concern for you, their husbands' fellow soldiers and comrades in arms," said Lt. Col. William Johnson. "Were they here, I think the message for you would be straightforward: keep the faith, take care of each other, and continue to take the fight to the enemy."

From D-Day to the Battle of the Bulge, and from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan, the Screaming Eagles have never backed down from confronting the enemy. Surrender won't happen this time, either, because even in their darkest hours, families of the fallen pull for the volunteer warriors carrying on their loved ones' missions with heavy hearts.

"Their concern for you, for all of us, was most humbling and a true testament to them, their faith and spirit."

Image courtesy: Staff Sgt. Ryan Matson

A new morning

Image courtesy: Staff Sgt. Andy Kin

I can't imagine what it's like to wake up in a war zone. Many troops stationed in active combat theaters open their eyes each morning to immediate danger, never knowing which awakening will be their last.

As Sunday dawned, U.S. troops in the Taliban-infested Zhari district of Kandahar province were manning their posts and preparing for patrols as terrorists packed a minivan full of explosives. After a suicide bomber rammed the vehicle into a new military facility, six American warriors were taken from their families, friends, and fellow troops. According to The Washington Post, the Taliban has claimed responsiblity for the shameful terrorist attack on the farm village.

NATO forces immediately responded, launching a hunt specifically aimed at a suspected terrorist believed to have ties to Sunday's vicious assault. Officials said several insurgents were captured during the hard target search, and more missions will follow.

As much of America grumbled about blizzard conditions and freezing cold over the weekend, tragedy marked the early stages of winter in southern Afghanistan. Now, six American families will receive knocks on their doors, and solemn dignified transfer ceremonies, like the dramatic November 30 memorial pictured above, will be held by the military. The pain these service members, friends, and families will experience is overwhelming, and American citizens on the homefront should share in their grief.

Terrorism against our nation will not stand. No matter which political party is in charge, the U.S. military stands ready to strike back when we are attacked. That's exactly what's happening at this very moment in Kandahar province, and our thoughts and prayers are with the men and women standing up for the cause of freedom. To the families of the fallen, Monday morning marks a new dawn. We will never forget what your loved ones sacrificed in Afghanistan, so their fellow Americans could wake up covered by the blanket of freedom.

Halls of greatness

Image courtesy: Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

While the surprise December 3 presidential visit to Afghanistan received worldwide media attention, and rightfully so, a November 23 ceremony at Bagram Air Field, where the commander-in-chief landed, should not be overlooked. Two buildings were named after fallen warriors linked not only by the tragedy that took their lives, but their uncommon loyalty, unflinching bravery, and passion for sports.

This blog noted the deaths of Staff Sgt. Steven DeLuzio and Sgt. Tristan Southworth in August, during one of the bloodiest months of the war in Afghanistan for coalition forces. When Staff Sgt. DeLuzio and Sgt. Southworth were killed on August 22 by enemy rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire, it had a profound effect on Company A, 3rd Battalion 172nd Infantry Regiment, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

"Losing … our soldiers is one of the most difficult things,” Col. Will Roy, commander of Vermont's 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, said shortly after the tragedy. "We believe the best way to pay tribute to them is to carry on with this mission of helping the Afghans build a government that will provide safety and security for its population, so that it can never be used again to attack our nation or any other nation."

By all accounts, soldiering on is exactly what DeLuzio, 25, and Southworth, 21, would have wanted their fellow troops to do. Staff Sgt. DeLuzio, who was from South Glastonbury, Connecticut, felt an overwhelming call to service after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and along with his big brother, Scott DeLuzio, joined the National Guard.

Image courtesy: Facebook

According to an an August 24 article in The Hartford Courant, Scott DeLuzio, left, came home from his Afghanistan combat deployment to mourn the loss of his brother in arms.

"I got the first flight home," Scott DeLuzio said. "My brother was a great guy — he cared about everything around him. Everything around him came first — family, and country."

Steven DeLuzio loved sports, both as a spectator and competitor. He was a diehard New York Yankees fan, despite his father's allegiance to the arch rival Boston Red Sox. He also enjoyed hockey, and excelled on the ice. DeLuzio's number seven hockey jersey will be retired by Glastonbury High School on December 15.

In the West Danville, Vermont area, Tristan Southworth is also being remembered for his accomplishments under the lights. According to to a tribute on the Hazen Union School website, Southworth was an integral part of two 2006 championship teams. He pitched a complete game in the state championship baseball clincher, and was also a huge part of the basketball team's title run.

Image courtesy: Facebook

As a Soldier, Sgt. Southworth displayed the same competitive spirit and fierce drive toward victory. Just like on his championship teams, he was a teammate, not an individual.

"Southy, the closer and closer we get to going home, the more I'm scared to get back," a fellow Soldier poignantly posted in a Facebook tribute group. "I know it's real; I just don't want to be home and not have you around to talk to and party with bro, words can't really explain how much you helped me here and at home. You are an amazing person and will never be forgotten bud."

Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes was at the November 23 Bagram Air Field dedication ceremony, and her article emphasizes the significance of Southworth and DeLuzio Halls to those who served with the valiant Soldiers.

"We will take the memories of Staff Sgt. DeLuzio and Sgt. Southworth with us for the rest of our lives because they were both such incredible individuals," said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Micah Kidney, the A Company, executive officer from Enosburg Falls, Vermont. "It is very nice to know that part of them, and their memory, will be left here as well because this is the country where they gave the ultimate sacrifice."

While the buildings named for these departed warriors are in a faraway land thousands of miles from their New England hometowns, the words inscribed on both plaques resonate around the world, including this passage on DeLuzio's.

"Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of becoming."

Sgt. Tristan Southworth and Staff Sgt. Steven DeLuzio were local stars on high school athletic fields who became American heroes on the world's most critical battlefield. Few are capable of accomplishing something so extraordinary.

Images courtesy: Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

Note: The Tristan Southworth Memorial Scholarship and Steven J. DeLuzio Memorial Fund have been established in memory of these fallen heroes. Please click on the links for information on how to contribute.

Those who give

Image courtesy: Pfc. Nathan Thome

When many Americans hear the name Victor Martinez, they probably think of the All-Star baseball catcher who recently signed a $50 million contract with the Detroit Tigers.

While he won't be rewarded with millions of dollars, Spc. Victor Martinez is making a name for himself in the U.S. Army. On November 30 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, the Soldier from Corpus Christi, Texas, serving with the 170th Military Police Company, was presented the Purple Heart by Maj. Gen. James Terry.

At Camp Nathan Smith, where a group of compassionate volunteer warriors recently came together to help a little Afghan boy named Rafi, wounded American heroes were recognized for their bravery and service. As you can see in this fine gallery, Purple Hearts were also pinned on the uniforms of Sgt. Jose Jimenez, Spc. William Duggan, Spc. Brad Prater, and Spc. Marcus Abbot.

The commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, Gen. David Petraeus, recently said that the military needs to do a better job of taking time to recognize the heroism of men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. There is no question that instead of marveling at the incomprehensible contracts of sports heroes, something I am guilty of as a big baseball fan, the American public also needs to pay more attention to our post-9/11 conflicts, with renewed consistency and focus.

To find a hero, you don't need to go to the movies or turn on a ballgame. They are all around us, whether it's in a shopping mall, airport, or cold combat outpost thousands of miles away. During this season of giving, those who give everything deserve the spotlight.

Image courtesy: Sgt. Russell Gilchrest

Guns and swords

Images courtesy: Facebook

Pfc. Colton Rusk was pure Texas. At just 20 years old, he displayed the toughness, grit, and fighting spirit that defines the Lone Star state. By all accounts, he wanted to deploy to Afghanistan, regardless of the ultimate consequences. If dying for his country was necessary, he was willing to do it. On Monday, the Rusk family learned that their hero had made the ultimate sacrifice.

"Always remember my brother fought and died fighting for our freedom," Pfc. Rusk's brother, Cody, posted on Facebook. "God bless my lil' brother, I love him and miss him..... SEMPER FIDELIS. And God bless Colton's Marine Corps and the families that have lost their loved ones."

As Corpus Christi Caller-Times reporter Jaime Powell found out, Rusk wanted to be a Marine since he was ten years old.

"Guns and swords, that’s what little boys do,” [the fallen Marine's mother, Kathy Rusk] said. "I ignored it, but he never outgrew it."

Guns and swords were essential combat tools for this volunteer warrior, who deployed to Afghanistan on his 20th birthday. But a decade earlier, when he was playing war with his brothers and friends in the small Texas town of Orange Grove, he probably didn't envision that dogs would be equally important to his military life. As a canine handler, Pfc. Rusk showed care and compassion for animals that often help hunt for improvised explosive devices. "What's mine is also his," the Marine wrote about one of the dogs in August.

According to the Pentagon, Rusk was killed on December 6 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, which has sacrificed a great deal in Afghanistan, especially in recent weeks. Another 3/5 Marine, Cpl. Derek Wyatt, 25, was killed on the same day as Pfc. Rusk. You may have also recently read about 1st Lt. William Donnelly IV, who died on Thanksgiving. Every time a brother in arms is lost, it hits fellow Marines hard.

"Thoughts and prayers to the family of Pfc. Colton Rusk, a great friend and even better Marine," Marc Garrison posted on Rusk's Facebook page. "Semper Fidelis brother, you will be greatly missed."

For Cody Rusk and his entire family, losing their hero is a devastating blow. But they are also enormously and rightfully proud of this young Texan, who grabbed his dreams by the horns and served the state and country he loved with honor.

"I never thought I was going to lose a best friend and a brother all in the same day, but I did. Colton is and forever will be a hero and always in my heart. He was a strong and and hard-headed brother, but I love him and always will. I want to thank everyone for their prayers and thoughts."


Video courtesy: Caller.com

'He was everybody's brother'

Image courtesy: Lance Cpl. Joshua Hines

The first day of December was particularly difficult for Marines in Musa Qal’eh, Afghanistan. The solemn warriors gathered to bid farewell to Staff Sgt. Javier Ortiz-Rivera, who was killed on November 16 in Helmand province.

"A friend, a mentor, and a fine leader of men, Staff Sergeant Ortiz was a model Marine and a truly exceptional staff non-commissioned officer. A disciplined and professional warrior, he always knew that the art of leadership lay in genuinely taking care of those under your charge," said Capt. Daniel O’Brien, commanding officer of Company A.

Long before he started serving with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Ortiz-Rivera was admired as a hard worker and loyal friend around Rochester, New York, where he grew up. Jeffrey Blackwell of The Democrat and Chronicle spoke to some of the 26-year-old fallen warrior's closest relatives.

"He was not just my brother," said Glory Ortiz, 22. "He was everybody's brother."

Staff Sgt. Ortiz-Rivera joined the Marines straight out of high school, serving in the early phases of the Iraq war in 2003. The platoon sergeant was on his second deployment to Afghanistan, after first fighting on the post-9/11 battleground in 2005. As Lance Cpl. Joshua Hines conveyed in his article about the memorial service, fellow Marines, especially those in 2nd Platoon, Company A, were struck by how excited he was to serve, and how seriously he took his daily duties.

"Spending nearly every day together, we had become good friends," said 2nd Lt. Jason Blydell, platoon commander for 2nd Platoon, Company A. "The best thing about Staff Sergeant Ortiz was that he could do that, be my friend, but when it came to work, he always maintained the highest degree of professionalism and I think that’s what made him a special man and a great Marine."

While Ortiz-Rivera was special to his Marine family, he was the central part of four people's lives: his wife, Veronica, and their three children, ages 3, 5, and 8. In a poignant e-mail to The Democrat and Chronicle, the fallen hero's grieving wife said everything her husband did was for their kids.

"Javier was the absolute best father any kid could ever hope for," she wrote. "His kids were his pride and joy and of all the jobs he had, being a father was what he did best."

On the couple's shared Facebook page, two soulmates described themselves as happy, grateful, and in awe of gifts received from above.

"We are Javier and Veronica Ortiz. God has blessed us with three wonderful kids and with great family and friends. Our lives aren't perfect, but I can definitely say we are blessed and highly favored!!!"

Very few of us have perfect lives, especially amid the continuing pain of war and economic recession. But we are highly favored to have been blessed with a Marine like Staff Sgt. Javier Ortiz-Rivera, who along with his family, was willing to sacrifice everything so we can remain free.

Image courtesy: Facebook

Agony and ecstasy

Image courtesy: Cpl. Daniel Woodall

Since December 1, the Pentagon has identified 15 American casualties from the war in Afghanistan, including six 101st Airborne paratroopers murdered by an Afghan border officer on November 29. The following nine fallen Soldiers and Marines were killed in action between November 30 and December 6. From frigid Sudbury, Massachusetts, where it snowed on Monday, to the shores of Honolulu, where this week's temperatures are reaching 80 degrees, military families are mourning tragic news delivered from the war on terror's central front.

1st. Lt. Scott Milley, 23, Sudbury Massachusetts
Cpl. Chad Wade, 22, Bentonville, Arkansas
Sgt. Matthew Abbate, 26, Honolulu, Hawaii
Sgt. 1st Class James Thode, 45, Kirtland, New Mexico
Lance Cpl. Lucas Scott, 20, Peebles, Ohio
Staff Sgt. Jason Reeves, 32, Odessa, Texas
Sgt. Nicholas Aleman, 24, Brooklyn, New York
Cpl. Derek Wyatt, 25, Akron, Ohio
Pfc. Colton Rusk, 20, Orange Grove, Texas

The dramatic image above, taken by Cpl. Daniel Woodall on November 28, shows the daily tension many of our troops experience in combat. It turns out that Sgt. Jacob Bublitz, a combat engineer with Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), was providing security while fellow Marines worked on paving a roadway in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand province. It may not have gotten many headlines, but Sgt. Bublitz and his brothers in arms put themselves on the line that day to make the lives of Afghans better.

Striking pictures like the one above only increase the emotional impact of images like the photo displayed below, which was taken by Lance Cpl. Andrew Thorburn on December 3. It shows Cpl. Cesar Rojas, a Marine with Battery L, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, embracing his family after a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan. This wasn't just a reunion at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, either. While kissing his wife, Arielis, Cpl. Rojas is holding his five-month-old son, Gabriel, for the first time.

From happy homecomings to tragic knocks on the door from military messengers, the far-reaching spectrum of war grips Americans on a daily basis. Due to a distracted media and largely disengaged public, however, it is relatively easy for citizens without personal connections to Afghanistan or Iraq to avoid boarding this emotional roller coaster. Yet I continue to believe that just like on September 11, 2001, we are all in this conflict together. Our nation's military families often experience periods of worry, grief, pride, and elation during deployments. Their fellow Americans should too.

Image courtesy: Lance Cpl. Andrew Thorburn


Note: This post was updated on December 7 at 9:53 p.m. EDT.

Family reunions

Image courtesy: Spc. Roland Hale

About two years after receiving their psychology degrees from East Carolina University, Pfc. Lane Higson and Pfc. Casey Higson, who are identical twins, signed up to serve their country.

The Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, natives are now Army communications specialists serving with the Enhanced Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division in Iraq. Spc. Roland Hale recently interviewed the twins at Camp Taji.

"We do everything together, obviously, and we’ve done lots, but we never thought we’d be doing this," said Lane.

"We’re very lucky to get to work here," said Casey. "We get to help people, sometimes if it’s just by talking to them."

With shared dreams, college degrees, warm personalities, and great smiles, the Higson twins could have done anything they wanted. They chose to put on identical uniforms and protect America. The 28-year-old sisters are scheduled to return home from Iraq, together, of course, in March.

Image courtesy: Sgt. Shawn Miller

Sgt. John Williams III is serving in Iraq with Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Advise and Assist Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Luckily for the soldier, his dad has a job that allows the son to see his father in war zones. John Williams Jr. is band manager for country music star Trace Adkins, who supports the troops by performing on USO tours.

As Sgt. Shawn Miller explains, the father and son saw each other in Afghanistan during Adkins' 2008 USO concert series. Yet due to mission priorities and geography, they didn't expect to see each other during recent performances in Iraq. Unbenownst to his father, Sgt. Williams reached out to his superiors and asked for some help.

"My chain of command was very supportive, and then I started working details on surprising my dad," he said.

On November 1, the soldier's dad received an incredible welcome to Contingency Operation Base Speicher. With Adkins at their side, the father and son embraced, shared some laughs, and treasured some unexpected bonus time.

"This is just a thrill that is hard to describe," exclaimed the elder Williams. "These long deployments are hard on everyone, and just to get to see him here is unbelievable."

Image courtesy: Cpl. Shannon McMillan

Cpl. Brandon Edgerton works hard as a supply warehouse clerk in Afghanistan. His dedication led the Medical Logistics Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 15 (Forward), 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) to award a well-deserved Good Conduct Medal to the Marine. But Cpl. Edgerton didn't initially expect to receive it from a very special guest.

On November 23 at Camp Leatherneck, 1st Sgt. Evan Unstead, who serves with the Army's Distribution Company, Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, awarded the Good Conduct Medal to his son. Cpl. Shannon McMillan covered the Afghanistan ceremony.

"It’s the first time we both are in the same place on active duty in uniform," Cpl. Edgerton said.

First Sgt. Unstead was thrilled to be able to make the ceremony, and the long-time soldier is also very proud that his son chose a career in the military.

"It keeps him on the straight and narrow," Unstead said. "So far I have heard nothing more than good things about him. It makes me proud."

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have deeply impacted thousands of military families, and in some tragic cases, torn them apart. While war's harsh realities cannot be ignored, these inspiring stories shouldn't be cast aside either. These families have lent their names to a calling they feel is bigger than themselves, and serve with honor under tough conditions. As we spend time with our loved ones this holiday season, we thank Cpl. Edgerton, 1st Sgt. Unstead, Sgt. Williams, and the Pfc. Higson twins for their sacrifices. You give America a reason to celebrate.

Commander-in-chief surprises troops in Afghanistan

Images courtesy: Staff Sgt. Michael Sparks

President Obama visited Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan on Friday, where he delivered remarks to American service members. The unannounced visit lasted about three hours, and included a visit to a nearby hospital, where the president presented Purple Hearts to wounded troops.

With Gen. David Petraeus by his side at about 10:30 p.m. local time, President Obama spoke to U.S. forces, including many members of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), which has had a very tough week in Afghanistan. The Screaming Eagles are still mourning Monday's murder of six fellow paratroopers by an Afghan police officer, who the Taliban claims joined the border force to commit the terrorist atrocity.

"I just came from the medical unit, saw our wounded warriors, pinned some Purple Hearts," the president said. "I just talked to a platoon that lost six of their buddies in a senseless act of violence. It's tough business, progress comes slow, and there will be difficult days ahead."

President Obama had also planned to meet with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who recently infuriates many U.S. leaders with offensive, ridiculous comments about U.S. troops serving there. The planned trip to Kabul was cancelled due to poor weather conditions. Instead, the leaders talked over a secure video link, allowing the president to spend extra time shaking hands with Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, and Sailors at Bagram.

"At this time of year, Americans are giving thanks for all their blessings," the commander-in-chief said. "And as we begin this holiday season, there's no place I'd rather be than here with you."

President Obama shared the stories of Staff Sgt. Robert Miller, who was killed on January 25, 2008 in Afghanistan while charging toward the enemy in Konar province, and of Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta, who saved his dear friend, Sgt. Joshua Brennan, from dying in the hands of the Taliban on October 25, 2007 in the violent Korengal Valley. Both soldiers were recognized with the Medal of Honor by President Obama, with Staff Sgt. Miller's awarded posthumously. The commander-in-chief said that the timeless stories of these American heroes set fine examples for active duty service members.

"We are here to say thank you for everything that you do," President Obama told the military audience. "And I also want to say thank you to your families back home, so when you talk to them, you know that they know they're serving here with you, in mind and spirit, if not in body."

While politics are an unavoidable part of any war, Friday's presidential visit was about expressing gratitude, extending a hand, and reminding the world of the sacrifices American heroes like the ones who gathered at Bagram are making in the country where the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 were planned.

"You will succeed in your mission. We said we were going to break the Taliban's momentum, and that's what you're doing."


Note: This post was updated on December 3 at 8:55 p.m. EDT. Special thanks to DVIDS for providing a live broadcast of the speech, which you saw here.