Letters From Home

I went to the post office today to close my PO Box. I was expecting a couple letters from family and a care package from my parents. Indeed it was filled with wonderful candy that certainly did not go to waste at the barracks here at Joint Base Lewis-McChord!

But the expression "big things come in small packages" never meant more to me than it did today. This is the first day that the next chapter in my Army career really was about to begin. Closing cell phone accounts, writing a will, and preparing gear for Afghanistan has everyone here a little on edge. However when I received a package today from  IHM-St. Casimir School, to say I was intrigued was quite the understatement.

From 1990 to 1998 I attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Elementary and St. Casimir Middle Schools (now a combined program). To say they helped form who I am today is an understatement. I took so many valuable life lessons from that place, not to mention friends and stories that will last a lifetime.

So I opened the package eagerly wondering just what it could be. I was very confused! I knew my 10th high school reunion was coming up this year, but I had never heard of a middle school reunion! It was nothing of the sort.

The wonderful students of IHM-St Casimir, under the guidance of one of my favorite teachers from the past, Nancy Murphy, had written me some cards and letters encouraging me as I embark on this new endeavor. It was honestly the most patriotic and christian act I've been touched with in a long time.

Often I see strangers on the street that tip their cap or thank me for my service if I'm in uniform. Family will tell me they appreciate what I am doing. However a letter from a 6 year old, who knows nothing of the politics that our country argues over to no end...who know little of the struggles of our military to save face in an ever changing world of corruption and killing...it was sobering.

I have shared their cards and letters with some of my battle buddies. We loved the flags, eagles, crosses, and other reminders of what we are protecting. The eagle is the mascot of both IHM-St. Casimir and the United States of America. I guess in that regard I was always destined to defend the eagle. One card even read "Once an Eagle, always an Eagle."

The 6th graders at IHM-St Casimir can be sure that I will be taking their cards to Afghanistan with me. They will lift me up and make me laugh when I need it. The support of everyone back home is appreciated. Please know that your kind words, no matter how simple always go straight to my heart.

Until next time...

Chris