Thanks to the Gators!
This past Saturday night I was invited by members of VMFA-142 to the United States Marine Corps Birthday celebration in Atlanta, GA. My wife and I attended and had a great time! It was fun to finally see many of the Marines that I had posted pictures of during the deployment to Iraq, in person. Everyone was extremely gracious for the site and my involvement in it.
In fact, it wasn't until I heard the stories and sentiments I'd previously only heard in emails and comments on the site, in person, did I fully come to appreciate what the site meant for so many people related to the Gators.
Not only did parents and spouses check in to see the latest, but many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends went to GatorsInIraq.com daily hoping to see a photo of their Marine. Seems that just seeing a photo of anyone in 142 helped pass the time a little easier. I didn't really begin to understand this until Saturday night.
I appreciate everyone who made it a point to find me and say thanks.
The biggest surprise of the night for me was when we made our way upstairs to a room where members of 142 where continuing the celebration. After a few minutes, the room got quiet and I heard "Boomer" the VMFA-142 CO say "Buck, front and center."
I came up and "Boomer" presented me with a signed squadron portrait of the Gators. He also honored me with some very kind words about the positive impact the site had on the Iraqi deployment. I wish I could remember it word for word, because I remember it being damn good, but I was still a little shocked from being recognized in such a way in the first place.
Thanks to all the Gators for making me feel like I was part of the team...
Buck (brokali)
posted by Ridge @ 8:09 AM
3 Comments:
Buck-
I know the site made the deployment a little easier for me and my girls. Seeing pictures of daddy made our day and helped to ease my daily fears(somewhat). We all appreciate all of the time and effort that you put into the website! You definately are not only part of the gator family but also one incredible brother-in-law!
Thanks somehow seems not quite enough but thank you !
I was a grandmother of one of the young men and I was there every day more than once,the site was great. I left comments even when I did not know the guys, it just seemed they were all part of your family,and they made us all very proud,it was a job well done. I'm glad they are all back safe. As you can see the site became something I did every day and I'm still going back so I do not miss anything about them. You made our life just a little bit better and we can not thankyou enough Thanks for all your time! Love from Yaya and Grampy.
Buck -
I live in metro Atlanta and visited the site often to keep up with the Gators. I was very impressed with your site. I am the mother of a soldier who is serving with a tank battalion in Iraq (his 2nd year long tour). We do not get much information at all and hardly ever a photo. I wish his battalion had a website like this. What you have provided for the families of the Gators is priceless. Thank you for your service to our country.
Carol Dzurenko
Powder Springs, GA
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