March 22, 2003. All week we heard rumblings about a war. We knew it was coming but didn’t know when. I even went to Catholic Mass and received a rosary and a medallion with Mary, the Queen of Peace on it. I am not Catholic but I was worried.
I was checking an aircraft engine below decks when Shock and Awe was executed.  America’s dominance was about to rain down on our enemies and my military friends were out there. Here I am on an air conditioned ship with a pen and pad and our men and women were out there with a gun and armor.

I filed papers.
They fired bullets.
I studied helicopters.
They flew them.
I came home.
Some did not.

No matter what I do in life I will always remember that the soldiers, sailors and airmen are my brothers and sisters in arms; they are my family no matter where they serve or what uniform they wear.  And like all kin, I will always be scared for them and like all siblings I will always be proud of them.

Oorah brothers and sisters. Mary is watching.