blessed in abundance

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Defenders of Freedom...
My two brothers left for Iraq this past week. I am so proud of them for their willingness to serve our country, and to contribute to the building and restoration of a country that has supressed its people for a very long time.

As a family, we have felt a lot of different emtions, and most of the time I have looked at this job they have to do with a "glass half empty" mentality. But my brothers have been trained well. They are prepared for the assignments that lie ahead, and we know that when we are prepared, the enemy will not overcome us. (D&C 38:9 Wherefore, gird up your loins and be prepared. Behold, the kingdom is yours, and the enemy shall not overcome.)

Knowing that they are prepared, and they have the priesthood with them, and that they are surrounded by good friends, and above all, knowing that they will be watched over every hour of the day lifts me up and helps my perspective change to a "glass half full" scenario.

"What lies in front of them and what lies behind them are tiny matters compared to what lies within them."

Jake and Travis have been raised right. They, along with the other soldiers in the 145th are highly prepared and ready for their assignments. The commanders at their traning base commented that this group - their level of prepardness and their quick abilty to pass off required tasks - was outstanding. Their creed defines men of bravery, men of service and men of strength. I admire them.

The Soldier's Creed
I am an American Soldier. I am a Warrior and a member of a team.

I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values.

I will always place the mission first.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough.

I am trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.

I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.

I am an expert and I am a professional.

I stand ready to deploy, engage and destroy the enemies of

the United States of America in close combat.

I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.

I love this creed, and want to live my life in such a way that, even though I am not a soldier, I have the drive, the passion, and strength to make the world better in my own way. It's the best way I know how to honor and support them while they are away, and thank them for their willingness to serve.

God Bless You Jake & Travis!