GOOD TIMES & GOOD NEWS!!!

Just me and a buddy hanging out in down town Puerto Vallarta.
Frogs are wonderful people too.

I think he was hitting on my lady???
You be the judge.
But who could hate a frog with a face like that?

Funny what a few Buffalo Wings, chicken quesadias, and Dos Equis will do for your mood.

Well maybe a little more than a few Dos Equis.
No worries mahn, a great time was had by all.

Another day ends in paradise
A view we got to witness every day in Mexico.

And one we saw only once.
This is the moon setting, while the sun was coming up in the east, making for a surreal purplish, pink hue to the ski.

Well there's the good times, now the
GREAT NEWS!!!!

We received the stop mail date for HHC 2-23rd INF 4th BDE.
While I can't share the exact date, (FRG cautions against stating dates on blogs and web sites, because bad guys are watching), I will say that it is sooner than later.
Karen and I are busy putting together our itinerary to head out to Washington State to be there when the buses roll onto base.
There is a certain amount of anxiety about all of this.
The official home coming ceremony won't be until a month after they arrive.
At this time we feel it more important to be there in the crowd for Matt, and other returning soldiers who for whatever reason won't have anyone to greet them.
Hopefully someone else will take our place at the official ceremony.

We got a message from Matt this morning. He will be on the last plane coming home.
It seems he was one of six soldiers selected to accompany the Battalion Commander, XO, Command Sargent Major, and Top, (First Sargent), and the Battalion Colors, and American Flag, and present them as they march into the welcome home ceremony.

While he claims he would rather be on the first plane, as in his words, "I can't wait to be out of Iraq, and the middle east, and don't want to spend one day more than I have to here no matter the honor," he understands the magnitude of the duty that has been bestowed upon him, and will do the service proud.
Words can't begin to do justice to the feeling of pride I have in him, and all of our soldiers.
It's moments like this that force me to reflect on those brave soldiers who won't be marching into the hall on that day.
It sure makes for a mix of emotions.

This is something that will affect the soldiers and their families for the remainder of our lives.

When you see a tear trickle down the cheek of a person during the playing of the National Anthem.
Or at a Memorial Day service.
You are probably looking at someone who has shared in the sacrifice that many have experienced.
For those who haven't, it's ok.
If you feel the need to honor those who have, you can do so in many ways.
Walk up to the next soldier you see, and simply say thank you.
I find that difficult, because emotion over takes me, so,you don't have to say a thing if you can't.
A simple thumbs up says volumes.

Or you can say thank you in my comments section on this blog. There are a few soldiers who read this from time to time.

Or attend a Memorial Day Service and share in the moment.
Your presence signifies the honor, respect, and gratitude that is most appreciated.
If you care to experience the camaraderie, join your local American Legion.
If you have never served, you can join the Sons Of The American Legion, (SAL). Your dues will go to help veterans, and there are a multitude of fun functions, committees, and projects that you can help with.
All you have to do is stop by the post, sign up, and your in.

May God bless and protect the 4th Brigade in their final weeks of service in harms way, and all military personnel serving where ever they may be.

Thank you for visiting, and don't forget to share your thoughts on the way out.