I know there are more than 2 or 3 veterans in the audience here at the EWN. One of by far the nicest things that has ever gone on via the EWN was when a very early member, David Abrams, was sent over to Kuwait and then Iraq some 5-6 years ago (maybe even 7). David pretty religiously kept a journal while over there and shared it with some via email. He and I exchanged a few more emails and he gave me permission to posts excerpts of his journal emails here at the EWN. What it led to was an outpouring of support from other EWN members--sending David books, handy wipes, snack foods, and perhaps most important of all the fact that there was a steady stream of reminder that there were people, many of whom certainly were not backing the war/operation going on at the time, back home appreciative of what he was doing as a member of our armed forces.
Of all the emails David sent me during that span, this one was the one I was most excited to share with EWN'ers, back in late December 2005:
Dear Dan,
The e-mail you (and I) have been waiting for!
I am now safe at home in the arms of America. It's been a long, strange, frustrating, and ultimately rewarding year. Believe me when I say I could not have made it through as well as I did without the undying support of my friends at EWN, Readerville and a couple of other "Soldier support" websites. No matter what their views on the Iraq Situation may be, your subscribers, in their own special way, helped fight the War on Terrorism through their endlessly surprising care packages and e-mails of encouragement. If any of them feel so moved, they can continue to support other literature-starved soldiers over there through websites like anysoldier.com or booksforsoldiers.com.
And now, if you'll excuse me, my wife is calling from the other room. I must heed love's invitation.
Happy Holidays to everyone.
Peace,
David
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