Being

that I started this Blog on September 11, 2004.

It is only fitting that I first honor our serviceman

and women with a poem.

A Letter to My Soldier

It was many years ago, that I placed an order for a bracelet.

Not diamonds rubies or even gold.

It was a simple silver bracelet,

not adorned with any gems at all.

But a very priceless jewel was stamped upon its face.

The name Commander Thomas Kolsted,

One of the many United States service men:

M.I.A: missing in action.

I proudly wore your bracelet,

it never left my wrist.

Through my teenage years-you were my hero.

Every night I would anxiously watch the television

to see "Who had been found"

But to my dismay your name was never called.

In my young mind,

I could not fathom the fact that "My Man"

was never going to be coming home.

I never met him,

or saw his face,

but I know that he was the bravest of men.

I never met his family.

"Did he have a wife, children?

he must have had someone special,

waiting just like me.

Someone who knew his smile,

his beautiful eyes, his loving heart.

Who also sat by the television

waiting for his named to be called,

and dying a little

each time it never was.

It is now many years later,

that war is over,

while others still rage.

We still don't know where you are today, Thomas.

Your name has been imprinted

on The Memorial Wall

as well as into my heart forever.

It took me awhile to find your name

(there are so many who were never found,)

but you were there

to my hearts delight,

You were lost

but not forgotten

"My soldier."

God knows where you are.

For you are at his side,

still guarding overus.

"Forever on Duty"

Love, Jeanne