When the war hits close to home.

We have had the good grace to acknowledge soldiers from our parish, and send them off formally with the Episcopal Church Serviceman's Cross and the prayers and gratitude of the people of the parish. Several have been to Iraq and returned, one is in Afghanistan right now, and other doing Marine training in Eastern Europe.

My brother's wife, Emma, has a brother who is serving in Iraq. His vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. Here is the email he sent to family members after the attack, as well as a photo taken 9 days before. We salute them and offer our prayers for them and their families.

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On the 14th May 2006, the “smokewagon” a lead M1114 of the 4th BDE INP SPTT Team was struck by an IED EFP. Two great Americans lost theirs lives and one was wounded.

The two killed in action where:
CW4 John Engeman “Panther 4”
SFC (P) Robert West “Panther 7”

The man wounded:
SFC Gary Galloway “Panther 3 G”

The loss is great, they can never be replaced.

The attached picture is the crew of the “Smokewagon”, I stand next to three of the greatest Americans and best friends I have ever known. I salute them.

CPT SHANE DALY “PANTHER 3”