How does one say "Thank You" for such an incredible debt owed? I'm talking about the women that stand guard at home, support us, encourage us and reinforce that fighting spirit that sustains us. Our wives, mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, volunteers and so many other wonderful and strong women that I can't even begin to name. Not just our team but each and every soldier, marine, sailor or airman that deploys to Afghanistan or Iraq, for that matter any conflict. A huge burden is being carried by those that fight but do not go to combat.
Thank you, for being the ones that deal with the mess once we leave. We're trained well to fight. But there is no Field Manual that describes how to explain to a young child that their father isn't going to be home for a long time or in the worst case may never come home. You do it with such grace and poise.
Thank you, for being patient and waiting. Enduring the pain of waiting to hear from us wondering if the worst has occurred when we're late calling or emailing and enduring our complete lack of understanding at your frustration and fear when we are late. "We came back late from patrol"; just doesn't validate that fear. Your patience is epic.
Thank you, for being the ones that hold us fast to reality and help put us back together when we return. You hold us tight and tell us things will be Ok when the rockets and gunfire have gone but the war has not left us. Your strength is what protects the warrior.
Thank you, for accomplishing all the things that we fail to acknowledge. Fixing broken sprinklers, taking kids to school, paying bills and the myriad of other things that are required to sustain life at home. You do so much and get so little from us many times.
Thank you for being the volunteer that says, "Welcome Home" in the middle of the night ensuring that no one comes home to silence and being there when we leave to say "Come Home Safe". You inspire us with your selfless service.
Finally, thank you for serving in a war you did not volunteer for and keeping us strong, sane and secure. We and the rest of the country owe you a huge debt that can never be repaid, the best we can hope for is to understand your journey, listen and learn from you.
From the bottom of our hearts, Team VAMPIRE and every other serving member says "THANK YOU"!
And to my wife and mother; I could not have done all of this without you. You are the truest warriors I know, pure of heart, strong in determination and unwavering in faith. I have a lot to learn from your examples!