My nephew Eric, who had the impeccible timing to join the Army and start Basic Training on September 8, 2001, was deployed to Iraq today.

My sister (his mother) hasn't seen him since just after he finished basic two years ago. He's been in Hawaii and Thailand since then.

All of my brothers were military, but this is the first hostile situation for a family member since my brother was in Viet Nam (an I was just a little kid and didn't really realize the gravity of it then).

Here's praying for his safety and a speedy return.

My son in law just returned from 7 1/2 months in Iraq and we are so thankful. It is very hard on families but the Army does have a family support system that I would encourage your sister to check into. They are associated with each base that has troups in Iraq and most bases seem to have a web page. My thoughts and prayers will be with your family, as with all the families that have members over there. Terry

My thoughts go out to your family Larry and all who have family overseas. I know that feeling well as for half of my childhood my father was in some middle eastern country or another for work. No combat related situations (that I know of) but just as dangerous at times. He always came home with some scarry stories, at least the ones he was able to tell us!

My thoughts and prayers are with your nephew and family, Larry. I wish him the very best during his tour, and a safe return home!

Our thoughts and prayers will be with your nephew Larry and with all the men and women of our Armed Forces everywhere. And in a special way also for the families that are left behind to worry about them.

Bert & Sharon

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Let's hope for a safe and speedy return.

Larry,
Are thoughts and prayers are with your nephew Eric for a safe return. You must be very proud of him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with your nephew and all of the service personnel serving our military. May God bring them home safely.

Mary & John

Will be thinking of Eric, and his family during this difficult period, Larry.

I talked to a different sister (I have seven of them!) last night. She said he had called my mother before he left and was really apprehensive. I guess so. I believe he's scheduled to be over there for a year.

Thanks for all of you kind thoughts.