I love you still. by BRITTA REQUE-DRAGICEVICThe words do not pour forth; they catch in my breasts, clutch at my throat, refuse to be told.I can’t write of finding your body, your warm blood melting the cold snow, the fixed gaze of your eyes forever staring into darkness. That same darkness I was not able to save you from.I can’t write of how my being tore in … [Read more...]
From Ritual to Reality: Because He Lives
Originally published March 27, 2016 by Scoti DomeijMy annual nostalgia of Easter now blossoms in reverse. My firstborn was killed in Afghanistan in the fall of 2011, the wild season of skeletal trees surrendering their fiery leaves to swirl and spiral into oblivion. Winter’s crushing mourning forged ahead—unstoppable, bringing life as I knew it to an abrupt halt. … [Read more...]
Hope In Hell: Letters from Inside Auschwitz
"Without memory, there is no culture. Without memory, there would be no civilization, no society, no future." — Auschwitz survivor and author Elie WieselDo you ever come across a historic story that just enthralls your mind? A story that sends you into a tailspin of research, and you end up reading countless articles about some of the most silently, powerful human beings … [Read more...]
“No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor” Part 1: Into the Fray Once Again
"No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor" Part 1: Into the Fray Once Again by Gunnery Sergeant (retired) L. Christian BusslerEditor's Note: These excerpts are from the multi-award winning book “No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor” and were provided by the book's author, Gunnery Sergeant (retired) L. Christian Bussler, who retains the copyrights. This an exclusive look into the … [Read more...]
Never Forgotten: The Deadliest Day During OIF
Written by Charlie Moose.In late January of 2005, the Lava Dawgs had just left the city of Fallujah after 75 days of some of the most intense, offensive operations of scale in the Iraq War. Everyone was elated to have survived. They were each given 2 beers per man as a late Christmas covenant. The snap and pop of aluminum cans gave clear indication to a temporary solace. … [Read more...]
The Remembrance Bracelet
Written by C.H.The metal edge clinks against the dining room table as he sits down for dinner. When he rests his hand on my back, I can feel the extra weight of it against my body. I can feel it digging into my flesh when we make love. Again, it's there as we snuggle on the couch. The sun catches the worn sides as he holds my daughter’s hands. At breakfast, lunch, and … [Read more...]
“Embryo Stage:” Remembering Special Operators Lost In Training
"Embryo Stage:" Remembering Special Operators Lost In Training by Wesley JurenaAuthors's Note: I hung this out on a hidden blog I created years after getting out. It was picked up by Gallant Few a few years back so it may be a repeat for some.It has been said, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” As a member of the 75th, your given everything you could ask … [Read more...]
The Travesty of Politics, The Tragedy of Empathy
Speaking only from my experience, people who politicize tragedy, only cause more stress and grief to the families. When my son, Sgt. First Class Kristoffer Domeij, was killed in Afghanistan on October 22, 2011, someone thought I’d be “comforted” by his politicized rant against the war on terror. Not only was it not comforting, it was infuriating. Just how did that man think … [Read more...]
When Life Crosses the Shadow of Death
Ten sailors missing . . . darkness approached in Asia as helicopters searched the watery abyss of the Strait of Malacca. I hoped against hope every parent’s child is rescued alive—but doom about their fate overshadows my heart just hearing those words “rescue and recovery efforts.”Ten sailors missing . . . another kick in the Gold Star gut. That feeling burns within me once … [Read more...]
Lessons From a Grieving Mother Whale
Losing a child is a club you never want to join. Whether you lose a child in war, in womb or late in life, the loss of a child is a parent's worst nightmare and impossible to grasp without experiencing it first hand. Grief is a natural response when a loved one dies. The grief never goes away and you are forced to live with it and learn to cope with it for the rest of your time … [Read more...]