"Yes there is frailty, yes there is weakness, but there is courage also and honor to be found in men." Boromir, Lord of The Rings

Monday, December 24, 2007

The Eighth Day of Christmas..Riders and Angels

I will get right to the story here, because this is too powerful, and it makes us think the next time we may complain about long lines at Airports or Shopping malls this time of year.

John Johnson, US Army Spec has survived 5 bombings. this time however he was laid up in a hospital recovering again from massive injuries suffered in still another one. but this time is different. Different because earlier in his recovery, his wife and three children were involved in a car accident that killed all three of the children. they were all driving over to see their Dad in recovery.

To lose one child is bad enough. but to lose all three while you yourself are recovering from massive injuries?? and to lose them just before Thanksgiving?? How can any of us, including parents look at this story and actually feel we have a right to complain about long mall lines??

But here's where the heroes come in! More than 200 Patriot Guard Riders, a band of motorcyclists served as one of the childrens pallbearers. they travelled from many states to attend. Anonymous donors provided funds for funeral expenses.

The Soldiers Angels provided hotel rooms for the Johnson's family, this group also provided funding for food and other needs. the VFW and Operation Comfort also pitched in to cover expenses.

The Fisher House Foundations Hero Miles program provided travel for Johnson to get his injured wife, and American Airlines picked up the tab for the airfare for them to travel to their childrens funerals. The PGA raised almost 100, 000 dollars for a new car and other expenses, and Operation Home front will use any monies left over to provide a memorial fund. heroes all.

Let us not complain about meaningless things this Christmas. Let us count our blessings, and let us remember these organizations who can be blessings to others.

Love to all.

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