A Gold Cross From Iraq { Natalie }

The effects the attacks of September 11th had on people across the country were widespread. The impact it had on my family was that it took my uncle away from his wife and newborn. That following Christmas he sent presents I will never forget. My sister and I each got a gold necklace while my parents recieved an American flag. I wear mine as I reminder to not only pray for my uncle, but also the other soldiers he's with or meets while fighting for our freedom.

He wrote a note and attached it to the flag:

This flag accompanied me on the long journey of Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was flown over every camp starting with our arrival at Camp Victory in the northern desert of Kuwait, continuing across the berm during the invasion phase of the war, and ending in northern Iraq at Qayaryah West Airfield, forty miles south of Mosul.

Although the flying of the American flag was against official Army policy during the invasion, this emblem served as a source of inspiration to the men and women of Charlie Company 5th Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment, 101st Division throughout our one year mission.

This flag now serves as a reminder of those days, a reminder that freedom is not free. For those who did not return...

I hope you all have enjoyed this post. I know it was long, but I hope it serves as a reminder to pray for our brave soldiers.
Natalie