My son

[mailman82]

This is my first post. My son a 16 year Army Veteran just called me and said he got deployment orders. My heart sank. He was over there for a year last year. He came home in Feb. He has a wife a two children ages 4 and 13. Being a Viet Nam combat vet. I worry about him alot. The year he was in Iraq was a very hard year. My heart weeps every time one of our brave service people die.
Oxy Limpballs says 1,000 is no big deal, that we dems are celebrating this milestone. Fuck him and shrub. Right now I am filled with anger. WE MUST GET Bush out of power! How many more have to die for a lie?
Thanks for letting me vent. I have been a long time member but never had the balls to post. Mailman82

[Tandalayo_Scheisskopf]

1. As God is my witness...

We will do everything we can to get your son home safe and sound.

[mailman82]

2. my son

Thank You

[wellstone_democrat]

3. Godspeed, Mailman82

May your son return to his family safely and soon.
Yes, we have to remove that menace before more good men and women are killed for his hubris and greed.

[noiretextatique]

4. sorry about your son's orders

that's awful. i will pray for his safety and safe return.
bush, inc and supporters clearly hate americans...let's hope enough of us get that message and send them packing come november.

[IdaBriggs]

5. We hear you! We're working on it!

Keeping all of you and them in our prayers!!! :(

[rustydog]

6. I don't know what I would do if my son was sent to Iraq

I think I would definitely let him know I'd stand behind him all the way if he decided to go to jail before killing others for the cowards in the White House.

[Zhade]

7. Damn. If only you could stop him from going.

This sucks. My heart goes out to you, my friend.

Is he combat, or support?

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

8. Move On organising vigils for 1000 dead American soldiers

The Email I was sent:

Dear MoveOn member,

In the past four days, clashes with Iraqi insurgents have claimed the lives of 17 American soldiers. With these deaths, we mark a grim milestone: over 1,000 military men and women have now died in this misconceived war.

Their caskets have been hidden from view, and the President won't visit their graves. And this morning, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld diminished their deaths by calling the toll “relatively small.” But it is now time for us to publicly recognize the sacrifice these soldiers have made, and to demand that our leaders serve those in harm's way better in the future.

Tomorrow night at 8pm, we're joining with the Win Without War coalition to hold hundreds of candlelight vigils. Gathered together silently in towns across the country, we'll reflect on this terrible moment and honor the fallen. And by focusing attention on the dead, we'll help pressure our national leaders to get us out of this mess.

Can you host a vigil? It's a small commitment of time -- you just need to identify a good location and pull together some candles and printed materials for attendees. To sign up to host a vigil, go to:

http://action.moveon.org/vigil/newmeeting.html

If you can't host, we welcome everyone to attend a candlelight vigil tomorrow night. You can search for one near you at:

http://action.moveon.org/vigil /

865 soldiers have died since President Bush declared, "Mission Accomplished." And yesterday, top Pentagon officials told the New York Times that "insurgents controlled important parts of central Iraq and that it was unclear when American and Iraqi forces would be able to secure those areas." The attacks are increasing, the death toll is rising, and there's no exit strategy to get us out.

In the moments before the war in Iraq began, Win Without War and MoveOn members gathered in thousands of vigils around the country and the world to make a plea for peace. As of this morning, 1,003 U.S. soldiers have died in Iraq -- along with tens of thousands of Iraqi civilians, and hundreds of soldiers from other countries. It is time to come together again. We'll gather with candles, representing our mourning for those who have died and our hope for those who still live.

We all support our troops. We hope that they all return safely to the waiting arms of their families and loved ones. But hiding the caskets of the dead does not honor the men and women who are in harm's way. It is time to recognize them, and tomorrow night, we will.

Can you join us? To get involved, go to:

http://action.moveon.org/vigil /

--Carrie, Joan, Lee, Marika, Noah, Peter, and Wes
The MoveOn.org Team
September 8th, 2004

P.S. We've posted an excerpt, below, from one of the many articles which capture the stories of some of the men and women who have died. You can see the pictures, names, and stories of all of the men and women who died in Iraq at: http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2003/iraq/forces/casualties /

Iraq war claims 1,000th U.S.casualty
Seattle Post-Intelligencer
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/189908_iraq08.html



Every name in the roster deserves a story:

Caleb Powers, 21, a Marine Corps lance corporal from Mansfield who donated his time to the children's society that had cared for him as a boy.

Army Spc. Jeremiah Schmunk, 20, a fun-loving man who wore a wig and dress to school to invite a girl to a Sadie Hawkins dance in his hometown of Warden.

Army Spc. Jake Herring, a 20-year-old 180-pounder from Kirkland who was the undersized but tenacious center and co-captain of his high school football team.

John "Sully" Sullivan, a 28-year-old heavy metal "shredder" who traded guitar for weapons as a member of the Army's 101st Airborne Division.

The youngest soldiers from Washington to die in Iraq were only 19. They were: Marine Pfc. Cody Calavan of Lake Stevens; Army Pfc. Duane Longstreth from Tacoma; and Army Spc. Nathan Nakis from Sedro-Woolley.

...

A thousand dead is a terrible toll. But even the number one is a harsh statistic for families who pick up the telephone and get the news no one wants to hear.

"It's just not the same here anymore," said David Scott, a father still grieving a year after his son's death. "There's an empty spot -- and it's felt all through our house."
<snip>

I will do all I can to help bring an end to this, another unjust and needless war. I hope your son fares well.

I'm organising one in North Alabama. Big Spring park @ 8:00. If you are in the area, please attend. If you aren't go to the sites listed above or organise your own.

Peace

[DemBones DemBones]

37. Where is Big Spring Park?

I'm in Northwest Georgia and can't find anything in nearby Alabama, Georgia, or Tennessee.

Move on should have organized this better, I think, to allow people to be ready to do a vigil, or they should wait a week. (But I may have missed something in an e-mail.)

Hoping the local NAACP might organize a vigil here, as they did just before the war began.

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

42. In Downtown Huntsville, AL which is relatively small so you can't miss it.

You can follow the signs to the Civic Center from I565 and nose around a few block area and you'll run smack into it within minutes. You can use any of the map services for directions. It's probably about 2 hrs from Dalton or Ringold.

[DemBones DemBones]

53. As I feared, a bit far for me. But thanks for

letting me know and good luck with the vigil. Maybe I'll get a few friends and do a small vigil.

[clydefrand]

9. My heart goes out to you. I will keep you and your son in

my thoughts and I will do all that I can to get rid of this person who is supposed to be a leader. Yes, he is a leader. Bullies and stupid people can lead, but not in the right way. My heart aches each day as I listen to the news all day about how the situation in Iraq is going, and how our men and women are being killed and injured. I hate this man for putting us into an unjustified war. Bless you and all of our people in harms way. Fran

[ewagner]

10. May your son return home

safely mailman........

I have a 21 year old son.

God help me, I might some day be writing the same post.

[blm]

11. I am sorry this president loves his Saudi royal friends more than American

citizens.

[grasswire]

12. Can you....

...tell us his first name? Tell him that many thousands of us are working to stop this insanity. I'll pray for him as if he were my own son.

[mailman82]

16. His name

Dana A. Dennis WO2

[JanMichael]

13. Your son is probably around my age 36, you're about my dad's age 60.

I hope that he fairs well, I know he must be going mad, and I can only imagine what you're feeling.

Let's get that sniveling shithead out of the WH, the Repuke majority out of Congress, it's the only solution to you dilemma.

[alcuno]

14. I'll work hard for you, mailman82, and pray for your son as well.

I believe that it is the duty of the citizens of this country to speak out for those in the military who volunteered to protect our country; those who can't speak out. May God protect your son and give comfort to his family.

[democrank]

15. mailman82.....

There just aren`t any words....none....to express my anger over George Bush`s invasion of Iraq, the deaths and injuries, the destruction, the cost. I`ll keep your son in my thoughts and I`ll continue to do everything in my power to help defeat that dangerous man in the White House.

Please know that many, many people are with you in spirit. Hang in there.

[Cleita]

17. I'm working with my local Democratic club to

get Bush deposed. We need Kerry in office to start mending the fences with our allies to bring our kids home. Not only that we are going to have to work very hard to deflect all the attacks Kerry will get while in office so he can turn our country around instead of being on the defense all the time from RW attacks.

I hope your son will be safe and welcome to DU. :-)

[Nite Owl]

18. Your son and you

are in my prayers. You have been here and know it was no celebration yesterday when we hit that dreaded milestone. I have been crying everytime I hear the number rise. I have two sons who are draft age and all I can say is the passports are ready if * gets in again somehow. Much peace to you both.

[G_j]

19. thanks for your post

we will not rest until Bush is out of office and the troops are brought home. Bless you and your family.

Together, we can do it.

[Eloriel]

20. I'm really sorry

Watching that segment with former TX House Speaker Barnes on 60 Minutes tonight brought back all my Vietnam memories again. (I was just an Army wife which is a tough job in its own right.) We should have learned our lessons from that, and it breaks my heart that we're sending even ONE soldier over there.

My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

[johnnie]

21. We will do our best

I'm sorry to hear about this. My thoughts are with you and your son...from your neighbor over here in Cleveland.

[Spiffarino]

22. I'll be thinking of your fine son, and of you

...when I vote for John Kerry this November.

Thank God for him and for all who were and are brave enough to wear our country's uniform. Just as with yourself many years ago, your son doesn't get to decide how he is going to be used once he joins. That's up to the politicians. And that's where we come in.

Many of us are working hard to ensure that your son and others like him will only be sent into harm's way when it is necessary for the protection of our country, not to enrich corporate sponsors.

As for Limbaugh and anyone else who has the gall to say "no big deal" to 1,000 dead Americans, I say fine. Get signed up, get your gear on, and go to Iraq to fight that useless war of choice that you expend so much breath supporting. Go right now so that better people than you can come home to their families.

[in_cog_ni_to]

23. I hope and pray your son stays safe

and returns home to you. :hug: He's in my thoughts and prayers.

I cannot believe how the RWers are demeaning the death of 1000 men and women. It's disgusting! 7,000 injured soldiers! Oxycontin Limpballs needs to sign his ass up to serve. If it's no big deal that 1000 soldiers have died...HE needs to be over there. In fact, when Kerry is in office, I say we have a Draft...FOR REPUBLICANS ONLY!!!!!! :grr:

[AnnInLa]

24. How many DEATHS is bu$h responsible for?

How many young men died in Vietnam, taking the place of george bush, who hid out---knowing that cannon fodder would be sent in his place? (And contemptiously didn't even complete the requirements of the guard duty he signed up for?)

How many people died in the 9/11 disaster because he didn't take seriously reports that said Osama Bin Laden was determined to attack inside the US?

How many people have died as a result of our attack and occupation of Iraq? Over 1,000 American soldiers and over 20,000 Iraqis. And what of the soldiers who have been horrible wounded and maimed?

The man is a butcher, a serial killer, and I'll say it: He is a modern Hitler.

[Tsiyu]

25. There is nothing more stressful to a parent

than knowing a child is in harm's way. I am so sorry you are facing this.

I, too would support any member of our armed forces saying, "Hell, no," After all, this is precisely what Bush did during Viet Nam, getting a coveted spot in the Texas Air National Guard. Only he had Big Daddy Bush to say, "hell, no" in a more politic way.

[Bertha Venation]

26. you have my support and prayers

If I can, I'll go to a vigil tomorrow night and carry my candle in Dana's name. If I can't go, I'll light candles and put them in the street-facing windows in my house. And I'll keep one lit in my heart until this nightmare is over.

I wish I could do more for him and for you.

[Stew225]

27. Mailman, my heart and prayers go out to you.

I have two draft aged sons and a daughter waiting in the wings. I will do anything to help them and your son stay and get out of there. At this point, my prayers will have to do. Although I am working to get Kerry elected!

[Ilsa]

28. Mailman, I'm so sorry your son is having to go back

to that hellhole. Pleases know that you have friends here wishing him the best and a safe return.

[eleny]

29. We're working hard for change

Thank you for your service and for your son's. I hope you keep posting. It's so good to have you here and now posting your thoughts, as well. Please keep us apprised of how it is for your son. We do care!

[cmd]

30. Thank you for sharing this with us mailman82

You've given me one more reason to get Bush* out of the White House. I promise you that I will do my very best to get the job done.

[greatauntoftriplets]

31. Good God! He's been back less than 6 months.....

My nephew got discharged from the regular Army a year ago in June after a 4-year hitch. After basic training, he spent the entire time at Schofield Barracks (Hawaii, of all the "hardship" posts and we razzed him like hell about that).

His unit went to Iraq last January.

He spent a year in the National Guard and were told during the winter that they were going to Afghanistan. That never materialized. Because he was scared at the thought of being in a war zone with troops in what he considered the Guard's poor state of readiness, he ditched a promotion to sergeant and several thousand dollars and got out of the Guard. He is now IRR, but so far they don't seem to want him.

As a member of a family that has dodged the bullet twice, my heart goes out to your family and your son's for his sacrifice. May he return home safely. And I hope he gets out as soon as he can.

[ROC]

32. Sorry about your son's orders

My son in law is about the same age and same time in. He is on a second deployment to Iraq. This rotation schedule is horrible. I feel for you, him and his family.

[DemBones DemBones]

38. Sorry to hear your son is also back there. If you

don't mind, would you post his first name so we can keep him in our thoughts in a more personalized way?

Welcome to DU! :hi: Haven't seen you before but memebership is growing so fast it's hard to keep up.

[Dark]

33. I know it may not mean much, but we at DU

are here if you need anything. There is always someone around to talk to. God bless your son for the noble service he is providing his country, even if it is in an ignoble war.

[deadparrot]

34. I am so sorry. I know

my words mean very little, but God bless you and your son. I send you my best wishes for your son's safety. I thank both of you for serving our country, especially considering the bullshit reasons that put our soldiers over there in the first place. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

PS- Welcome to DU! :bounce:

[yardwork]

35. Thank you for your post

As a mother of two teenage sons, my heart breaks for you and your family.

[Jokinomx]

36. I am so angry !! Angry at this administration and everything it stands for

Mailman82... I salute your Son for serving his country and I salute you also for serving also. As with so many others that have posted to your comments... I am also volunteering with my local Democratic organization to oust this President.

My prayers are with you and your Family as they continue in the stuggle of living with this lie that we have been forced to endure.


:pals:

[Samantha]

39. Mailman82, my heart goes out to you too

I have been so worried reading about the proposed draft requirements. I have one daughter who is a music teacher. She doesn't have an agressive bone in her body. I worry everyday the draft will be re-initiated and she will be taken. She couldn't handle it and neither could I.

I don't think there is anything anyone can say that will actually make you feel better as a parent. We always worry about our children being in harm's way. But I think the above-posted offer by my fellow-DU'er is very sincere. If you ever need anyone to "talk" to, we are here for you. And we know you would do the same for us if any of our children are taken.

On a lighter note, it made me smile to read you served in Vietnam but have never had the nerve until now to post at DU. Many of us "posters" could never have done what you did. And while we are so critical of some of these unnecessary wars, we do admire those with the courage who do serve. Congratulations on your service, and may God watch over your son while he is in Iraq. I too will light a candle for Dana and pray for his safety.

[DemBones DemBones]

40. I'm glad you're finally posting but very sad that

your son's redeployment is the occasion of your first post.

We must end this war and this imperious (p)residency of a man who weaseled out of real military service while you served.

I have a daughter who's your son Dana's age and never thought either she or her husband might face a draft but these days I am wondering about that, trying not to worry and borrow trouble.

Dana will be in my prayers.

[greblc]

41. Second Tours are just wrong.

I don't think the F*cking Freepers will get it until we have to draft them and/or their children. Our Military is not inexhaustible.

I don't want to see a Draft but how else will these F*ck Heads understand there is price to pay when you "choose" to go to WAR.

I have two Sons 6&9. It frightens me that this could easily go on for 10+ yrs. My Heart goes out to you and yours Mailman.

Thank Your Son and Godspeed.

[librechik]

43. What an outrage! That in this day and age we still send our kids

to foreign wars of plunder.

I too pledge to do everything I can to bring your son home.

My son is 22. Please pray for him and all our other beautiful children that Kerry wins and there is no draft in 2005.

God bless You Mailman! Welcome to DU!

Please talk to us frequently and let us know how you and your family are doing. We love you all!

:loveya:

[leesa]

44. I'm so sorry he has to go back. How many years does your family need to

give to corporate America? I wish I could say he was fighting for something grand, but we all know it is to steal the oil.
Thank you to you and your son for trying to fight for your country. It is your country who let you down.

[jbm]

45. I'm glad you decided to post mailman...

I promise I will do everything I can to make sure that Bush is replaced in November. Good luck to your son.

[underseasurveyor]

46. Welcome Mailman82 Welcome

It's an honor to have you here :hug:

I'm so sorry to hear that your son must return to Iraq. I don't know what else to say at the moment. I did want to let you know there was yet one more person here that cares :grouphug:

[madmax]

47. You will always find friends that will be here for you.

Prayers to you and your son. :hug:

[roguevalley]

48. This is awful, honey. HUGS! Post often and however you need to.

[Swamp Rat]

49. Thanks for posting

I have family there too. My cousin was sent for a second tour. :hug: :grouphug:

[enough]

50. Mailman82,

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

May he come home safely.

[peacebuzzard]

51. I feel so sad about your sadness, mailman, I never had children but

would have gone berserk to experience the tragedy of sending an offspring to this hell created on earth by stupid & co. I am so sorry.

[progressivebydesign]

52. Your son, and all the sons and daughters and fathers and mothers..

are who I have in my mind and heart as I do my best to get John Kerry elected. Hope is on the way... I have to believe that. I send my best thoughts and hopes to you and your family.