My mom just called me to tell me that one of her closest friends lost her son in Iraq on Wednesday. He was one of the brave men that died in the helicopter crash claiming 30 other lives in western Iraq when their CH-53E Super Stallion went down in an apparent sandstorm.
Lance Cpl. Michael L. Starr Jr. was the 21 year old son of my mom’s friend and she had just gotten home from visiting their house. The family is obviously distraught and shocked at the news. However, they supported their son and his mission.
The Marines offered their thoughts and prayers in this press release. “While we mourn the loss of these heroes, we will honor their sacrifice by continuing our mission to bring democracy to the people of Iraq,” said Lt. Gen. John F. Sattler, Commanding General, I Marine Expeditionary Force. “To the families of these brave men, our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult of times.”
A Fox News story shares the thoughts of another bereaved mother, “But the death of Cpl. Kyle J. Grimes, 21, a native of Bethlehem, Pa., has strengthened his mother's belief in the U.S. mission in Iraq.
"It makes me more convinced that we need to get this job done and have a positive influence there and make things better," Marybeth LeVan told The Express-Times of Easton, Pa., from her home in Louisiana."
I didn’t know Lance Cpl. Starr and I’m not particularly close to his parents, but my mom is and she was pretty upset at the news as well. I think in part she was thankful I wasn’t over there and she wanted to hear my voice. As any American should, we mourn the loss of our fallen soldiers and we thank their families for their sacrifice. He served a greater purpose than himself and was actively part of making Iraq safe for democracy. This is a reminder that we need to honor and support all those that fight against tyranny and for freedom.
UPDATE:
When I read this to my mother last night over the phone she started crying. She doesn't show emotion a lot, but when she does you know you really touched her heart. I love you too Mom!