A Time of Remembrance

Sep 29 - 30, 2007 ...  Families, and friends touched by the loss of our Washington State troops came together for a time of remembrance in Richland this past weekend.

The following, is taken from the  "Time of Remembrance" site.  http://www.timeofremembrance.org

September 29th and 30th 2007, a statewide effort is being planned to honor the families and comrades of Washington's fallen in Iraq and Afghanistan. This tribute, being held in the cities of Richland, and West Richland, Washington, honor those who have died for their country and the families left behind. The 2007 Washington State Time of Remembrance committee, in partnership with American Citizens Encouraging Support (A.C.E.S.), is leading this effort.

   Saturday, September 29th the families and fellow comrades of the fallen will have the opportunity to privately meet for a time of sharing, and will attend break-out sessions which will provide information to assist in the process of coping with their loss and sacrifice. After dinner they will be transported to a public patriotic entertainment and vendor fair, followed by a candlelight vigil taking place at Howard Amon Park in Richland.

   Sunday, September 30th, there will be an official State Recognition Ceremony hosted by the city of West Richland at Flat Top Park. Our goal is to have each of our heroes memory represented. This will be the first time the families of Washington are brought together for a time of comfort and healing. We encourage all Washington citizens to attend this important event as we give back to those who have given their all.

“During this time of war, it’s important to remember the sacrifice that so many of our service members and their families are making. Join us as we honor the memories of the courageous men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty and pray for the comfort of their friends and family.”  -Governor Christine Gregoire

I was able to be there for the registration portion, and just a few moments on the 29th.  The photos show only a brief glimpse of an amazing event, and for that I truly am sorry.

Happily, H2H Core Team member, USMC Sgt Jonathan coffey was already very involved in this effort, and was able to be there for the entire event.  In fact, as I arrived the 2nd day, Jonathan was speaking to the assembled group aobut the wonderful talent of, and gift offered by, artist Michael Reagan. 

Mike Reagan does incredible portraits of our fallen as his gift to the family of each.  His work is remarkable.   After Jonathan spoke, a gentleman unexpectedly came to the podium to tell how Mr Reagan had done his loved one's portrait.  He told that it had been done so beautifully, and that it was actually able to be there at the memorial.  Heads nodded in the audience, and his voice wavered with emotion as he told what it meant to their family.  Portaits can be requested by the spouse, or parent of the fallen troop.  They are done on a first come, first served basis. To learn more:  http://www.michaelgreaganartist.com/FallenHero.htm

It was good to see the welcome made for the families, the sharing, workshops, and just plain comraderie that was happening.  All ages were represented.

The Combat Veterans International motorcyclists proudly stood present, in their patch adorned leathers.  You could spend countless time just checking out their histories.  Maybe it's because I am a child of a Vietnam & Korea vet, but these guys just made me feel safe with their presence.  And you know that they get it.

But the face that brought me the biggest smile, was Shirley Schmunk, mother of Fallen Hero, Jeremiah.  This woman is another mom who works tirelessly to make sure her son, and every mother & father's child lost in this war, is not forgotten .. andis honored.  Her passion shows in her every action, and she just gets more beautiful by the day!

Sadly, due to unforeseen circumstances, I was unable to attend the actual memorial.  I left Gold Star pins for the families, along with much respect, honor, and many prayers, on behalf of our family, and the HeroToHero.US troop morale campaign.

We strongly support this effort, and hope you will do the same.

God bless.

lj