Most of you here know I'm a big supporter of our Military, for years I've been doing what I can by sending packages and letters and basically doing anything I can to show my support. And most of you also know I kind of prefer the behind the scenes position...or the "gray man" as it were. Well, I'm pretty excited about something so I'm coming out with a story.
In November '06 I was recruited to stand up and lead a Family Readiness Group for a local ILARNG unit here (106th CAV, 2nd Sqd, C-Troop) A friend was in the Troop at the time and recommended me to the CO...we hit it off and I accepted the challenge.
Fast forward to the fall of 07. With an upcoming deployment looming within a year it was decided by higher ups that the FRG leader should be the "significant other" or spouse to a Soldier in the Troop. I guess perhaps they didn't have a whole lot of luck with civilians in that role... Anyway I wasn't offended, the 1SG's wife took over (she was my right hand anyway) and I accepted the secretary position that was offered to me.
Yesterday we had a MOB meeting for the families then the deployment ceremony, and following that the FRG hosted a picnic at the Armory for about 300+ people. It was an incredible event...emotional too, and although I'm not in a personal relationship with any of the men it's a difficult thing to know they are going into harm's way.
In March I accidentally found out that the 1SG's wife had recommended me for the Honorable Order of the Saint Joan d'Arc recognition and medallion. (see link below) It was to be given to me at the Ball in March...but didn't arrive and honestly I had kind of forgotten about it. Well at the picnic yesterday, guess who got called up in front of the whole group to receive her framed commendation and medallion?
Yep. Me...all bedraggled from replenishing the food line (and damn, those guys and their families can eat!
) after having balled my eyes out at the ceremony. Started me up all over again.
If I can figure out how to block out the faces/name tags of the CO and 1SG I'll post a picture.
Here's the link re the award:
http://www.usarmor-assn.org/joanofarc.aspx
And I know wiki isn't always the best info source, but this is out there.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_o...;Arc_Medallion
So, whilst a bit out of character for me, I guess I'm bragging a little. It's just that I'm so very honored to have my name added to the roster along with other women who have been inducted into the Order of Saint Joan D'Arc.
Ultimately I'm even more honored that I have the priviledge to serve the men (and their families) who protect me and our Country.
Godspeed Men, we'll see you when you return!
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