Has it really been three years?

It's hard to believe it's been three years since Richard died. We went to his grave on the anniversary of his death and again on his birthday (29th!!). We put the same type of flowers out on his birthday that his brother, Raymond, will have at his wedding on April 9th. Richard would be so proud of his brother.

Let us remember before God, and commend to His sure keeping those who have died for their country in war, those who we knew, and whose memory we treasure; and all who have lived and died in the Service of mankind.

Memorial Day 2010

I received this email today from a wonderful person I worked with in Jacksonville. He cried with me over the death of Richard and told me about his son, Joseph's, desire to join the military. I was reminded today of the great honor Richard did for us in joining the Army in a time of war not knowing if he would return home wounded or if he would even return home at all; but bravely going to Iraq to fight for our country. As I read this email with tears streaming down my face I was reminded of what a great country we live in and I thanked God and said a prayer for all those who are currently fighting for us. When I think about loosing Richard I can't help but think about all those other families who have also lost loved ones. I try not to be selfish in my sorrow, but it's hard having lost such a good person who had such hopes for a good future.

"Dear Tina, Joseph, our firstborn, has been in Kandahar now for about a month. Since he has been deployed there I find myself having to block out the thoughts of losing him, therefore I do not to imagine what you and your family have gone through in the loss of Richard. I have always held those who serve our country in high regard. Please accept my sincere “Thank You” for the ultimate sacrifice made by Richard for our country. We are not worthy of such fine young Americans.
Happy Memorial Day!
Mike Jarriel"

Memorial Day 2009

We went to Richard's gravesite today and had the honor of meeting up with Joan and three other Patriot Guards. They had just left a Memorial Day ceremony and had wanted to say thank you to Richard for giving the ultimate sacrifice of his life to help protect our country. His memory lives on in our hearts and the hearts of many others. Thank you Richard.