C Co Grad Nov 06

THANK YOU!! so much for posting these awesome pics of our awesome soldiers in training!

said francescca 2006.08.09 at 04:41:03 PDT

Thank you so much! I was so excited when I found my brother in three of the pictures! He is on page 3, the first three pics, frowning in the second row, you can only see him because the guy in front of him is bent over. Thanks again!

said stardustnations 2006.08.10 at 16:15:33 PDT

I am so excited to see these pictures. Thanks for posting and keep them coming. I am so proud of my soldier and feel privaleged to watch him through this journey.

said skomom 2006.08.10 at 17:22:51 PDT

I was so excited to see these pictures. These young men are all heroes in my book. Stay positive and focused and you will succeed. God Bless all of our soldiers.

said caskotzke 2006.08.10 at 17:25:31 PDT

This is a great thing that we get to see these men. My daughters father was right in the middle. She was so excited to see him as well as her mother and his. Thank you

said brobinson304 2006.08.11 at 16:40:38 PDT

Thanks for taking the time to make these posts. I will be looking and hoping everyday to catch a glimpse of PV2 Lovejoy C company 2/58 roster # 226. Thanks so very much.

said michaeljuli 2006.08.12 at 10:08:10 PDT

Thanks for the pics. Makes the time go by faster. I will be looking to see my hubby PVT Richard French #316. Hope to see more and often. God Bless You!!

said janiemae73 2006.08.13 at 11:21:27 PDT

I guess that I am in the right spot to try and get a glimpse of my son. He grad.in Nov. He is in C co 2nd BN 58th REGT. The letter we recieved gave this web site. Thanks for the pictures they are a great way to see some of the things he is doing.

said banken80 2006.08.13 at 12:39:01 PDT

Thank you for the great pics. It's a great way for families to see our soldiers in action. I can't wait to see more pics. of my son 309 PFC David Dean. We are very PROUD of him & all The soldiers.

said 309DEANsMom 2006.08.14 at 08:20:28 PDT

My son is PFC Rory Payne he is in C Company scheduled to graduate Nov. 10th, 06. I am very thankful for the opportunity to view pictures of his company and look forward to seeing him. Thank You Very Much, Kim Payne, A very proud MOM!!!

said painpak 2006.08.14 at 11:43:25 PDT

The most recent pics are great. I finally caught a glimpse of my son. He looks to be a little thinner. This website is a godsend for the parents whose children are away from home. Most of which it is the first time. I know how it made me feel just to see a picture. I just want to say how proud I am of My son, PV2 Lovejoy, and all of his company members. Proud parent of PV2 Todd Lovejoy.

said michaeljuli 2006.08.15 at 05:26:28 PDT

Thank you again for all the great pictures, I didn't see my brother this time, PVT, Joshua Smith, but I know from his many letters that he is doing as best as can be expected. Thank you so very much!!

said stardustnations 2006.08.15 at 08:31:43 PDT

Thank you so much! Seeing my son has been the best thing since he left. PV2 Lovejoy is my son and I am very proud to be his mother. I hope other parents have the opportunity to see their kids as well. Thanks again you are very appreciated. God Bless!

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.15 at 13:15:03 PDT

The addition of these pictures is the best thing! I am so happy to see close up's of my son and see that he is indeed well and happy. Good luck to all the soldiers and their training.

said skomom 2006.08.15 at 15:25:31 PDT

I see you doing ya Solider stuff!! Bet that water SUCKED, but you got to do what you got to do. Hang in there, cuz I saw the other pics and its looks hella crazy but do what you do. I give all of ya'll prompts cuz I couldn't hang. You need to jump in the way of the camera more often, freak. I glad I got to see you and I'll write you soon. Take more pics cuz you know mom. Love You...from H-TOWN..Aubrey and Carlos

said aubrey818 2006.08.15 at 19:01:29 PDT

These pictures are so awesome. It was so wonderful to see my son, PVT Ed Skotzke, closeup in his uniform looking so handsome. I have printed out several pictures and have them at my desk at work. Everyone has been coming by and telling me how proud I should be. Well they should know with the look on my face, I have never been more proud of him. I am proud of all these young men. Keep these pictures coming. I love them!

said caskotzke 2006.08.16 at 17:25:29 PDT

Great to see Pictures of my son Pfc Winters. Looks like he and the guys are having a ball. Hey bud if you get to read this i want to see you in that mud next time.Keep working hard From a proud Dad.

said smokey454 2006.08.17 at 10:36:10 PDT

Thank you so much for this site. We finally caught a piture of our son RJ, PV Howard. The letters from him are awesome, but, like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. We know he's ok and doing good and we can ask..."who cut your hair?" Bless you all.

said tondeb06 2006.08.17 at 10:49:07 PDT

Hey if anyone wants to keep in contact my husband is in the C company 2nd bn 58th In Regt, my email is janiemae73@yahoo.com.

said janiemae73 2006.08.17 at 14:30:13 PDT

Hey if anyone wants to keep in contact my husband is in the C company 2nd bn 58th In Regt, my email is janiemae73@yahoo.com. Thanks for adding more pics YAY!

said janiemae73 2006.08.17 at 14:30:51 PDT

wldrtrkysmom06, is your son in 2nd BN 58th In REGT? MY son is in the same one. It's great seeing photo's of our brave soldiers.

said 309DEANsMom 2006.08.18 at 07:17:27 PDT

309DEANsMom, yes he is. If you would like to stay in contact my email is tammylk05@charter.net. He hasnt received any of his letters yet and he is getting a little discouraged but I know he will be fine. First 3wks are the worst. I have talked to him and let him know letters have been sent almost daily. These kids do not comprehend how much they are loved!

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.18 at 11:57:30 PDT

Yeah! We got to see our son. Thank you for doing this. I wish it had been this easy for those that went before them. This is a blessing to all parents, husbands & wives of these men and women. The pictures are GREAT! Thank you

said banken80 2006.08.18 at 22:07:43 PDT

to Ed Skotzke mom...your son and my son joined through the same recruiter. I remember them mentioning they would most likely be battle buddies because of the close spelling of their names. I believe your son also went to Salem High? If anyone would like to keep in touch, feel free to email me. debskotak@sbcglobal.net we can keep each other going for the next 3 months.

said skomom 2006.08.19 at 05:34:25 PDT

Thanks for all you do, chaplain 258. It sure was nice to see my son PFC Pete Frame, from Dallas and Merkel TX. His letters are great and he is very upbeat about the training. I believe he is the old man in C company 2nd bn 58th, at 33 years old. We are VERY proud of him.

said petepocono 2006.08.19 at 09:16:18 PDT

I believe the Chaplain has spoiled us. He anyone is like me, you look constantly now waiting for new pics. lol Take care all.

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.19 at 16:01:14 PDT

i found a picture of my boyfriend pvt craig robinett...i was so happy thank you SO much!

said RobinettsGirl17 2006.08.19 at 17:19:43 PDT

Love having the chance to see our soldiers in training. Gives me lots of things to write my son, PV2 Corey Richardson, about!! Having this site is such a blessing to all of us. Hope to see my son one day soon. Chaplain, please keep taking the photos and posting as much as possible. Can't thank you enough for this opportunity. So proud of all of our soldiers! So proud of you Corey - Can't Wait for Nov. 10th. - with love to all, A Proud Mom

said donna567456 2006.08.19 at 22:04:44 PDT

tondeb06@msn.com, Our son is in C company 2nd BN 58th In Rgt, also. He has not received mail that has been sent and is getting very discouraged too. We got a letter today from him telling us that the Drill Sergeants are crumbling up letters that look like they contain pictures, or if there in trouble they might get there mail crumbled. We don't know if they then get the letter all crumbled. But, he thinks we aren't writing to him, it is upsetting. Anyone have any suggestions on how to get mail through?

said tondeb06 2006.08.19 at 23:54:44 PDT

Just keep sending it he will get it sooner or later. Hopefully sooner. My son, PV2 Todd Lovejoy, told his mother that the drill sargents were riding him pretty hard about his last name. Thats trivial in my book, but I suppose they just try to find anything to make them mentally tougher. The mail situation should improve greatly after the 3 week total control period is over. If anyone wants to contact me with parental support my e-mail is mtlovejoy@aep.com , I will try to help anyway I can as well. I, like all the other posters, cannot wait until NOV. 10th

said michaeljuli 2006.08.20 at 10:03:49 PDT

Hi, I read on here that some of you aren't sure if your soldiers are getting your letters, I know my brother got one of mine, it took a long time but he got it. Also, did anyone else get requests for cough drops from their soldiers? For some reason that's what my brother requested. If you get to read this Josh, we are so proud of you! God bless PVT Josh Smith and all the other soldiers!

said stardustnations 2006.08.21 at 10:47:33 PDT

I forgot to mention, if anyone wants to keep in touch my e-mail is stardustnations@yahoo.com .

said stardustnations 2006.08.21 at 10:48:19 PDT

stardustnations, I am not sure but I believe they cannot have anything but letters, cards, and pics at this point. I dont want your brother in trouble but he is in his 3rd week of Total Control. Just giving you heads up. I think we have to wait for a letter from the Army before sending anything else. :-) PV2 Lovejoys mom. Take care.

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.21 at 14:40:45 PDT

Got a letter from my son today in C Company, he finally received the first cards we sent the first week. He said if they get more than 2 letters per mail day they have to do an additional 35 pushups per letter. He said he'd rather do pushups than not receive anything.

said Rooster8254 2006.08.21 at 16:37:05 PDT

Truly thrilled to see Pvt. Jeff Gilmore's face! How I miss it! Jeff, if you read this know how proud we are of you and your buddies! God Bless you all, you are in our thoughts are prayers daily. Chaplian258, thank you from a proud mom! Here's to all us parents too!

said JGMomEdina 2006.08.21 at 17:44:26 PDT

sounds like all our soldiers are having the same problem.... more mail. Hopefully they are getting all their mail that is being sent to them. I am sure that Rooster8254 is right saying they would do 35 push-ups rather then not get mail. Pictures are great keep them coming.

said smokey454 2006.08.22 at 13:15:47 PDT

I received a letter from my son that said 20 push ups per letter over three a day! Oops would have been good to know! I have been flying through the stamps! Waiting patiently (or not!) for more photos! However, despite my best efforts, still don't have confirmation that he has received any of them! Sigh.

said JGMomEdina 2006.08.22 at 15:37:08 PDT

Well..I'm guessing my son is in real good shape...I know family and friends have sent at least 25 letters since we got the address from the chaplain (aug 10)..Mark did not complain about the additional pushups, so I guess he is happy to get the letters too!

said skomom 2006.08.22 at 15:42:45 PDT

Well..I'm guessing my son is in real good shape...I know family and friends have sent at least 25 letters since we got the address from the chaplain (aug 10)..Mark did not complain about the additional pushups, so I guess he is happy to get the letters too! and he adds Write Back to each letter he sends... :)

said skomom 2006.08.22 at 15:43:01 PDT

I have not heard from my son in a little while and was wondering how he was doing. Then I looked through the pictures and there he was, crawling through the mud. Now we know he is doing fine. Thank you Chaplin, for providing parents and families a way to connect with their sons, husbands, brothers, etc. PV2 DeGeus' mom.

said em8405 2006.08.22 at 17:54:45 PDT

I received another letter from Ed today. He told me all about the first aide they learned. They even learned how to start an IV. Ed has received my letters. He requested to me a calendar so he could count down the days to graduation. I went one step further and made a calender thru Fedexkinkos.com and downloaded pictures of family, friends and special events for the pictures on the calendar. On the website you can also have any special birthday or anniversary or any special date put on it to personalize it. Ed got it and loves it. He said all the guys thought it was a great idea. So any of you parents want to give a great morale booster for your soldier, it's only $20.00 and is ready in a few hours to be picked up. He said he loves it and that made my day. I'm glad he received it and it didn't get crumbled. I think that's terrible to crumble our letters of support and love. My email is caskotzke@yahoo.com. And to skomom, what is your son's name. Yes, Ed went to Plymouth High. Can't wait for Nov. 10th! And can't wait for more pictures!

said caskotzke 2006.08.22 at 19:33:35 PDT

Thank you for the heads up wldrtrkysmom06, I got this message just in time, I was about to send off some cough drops to my brother! I'll try to be patient and not send them for at least two more weeks but it's hard not to jump and do what he asks when I can see he is going through hell in Basic Training! I can't help being the big sister and he is my only brother. :)

said stardustnations 2006.08.22 at 23:27:43 PDT

My son, PV2 Lovejoy, sent a letter to his grandfather yesterday so this tells me he at least has gotten some of his mail. He did not know the return address otherwise. You know how kids are they just don't need to know thier grandparents address unless they live far away from them and that is not the case for my son. Keep the posts coming I enjoy reading them. The picture just aren't coming fast enough, but I relize the chaplain has other things to do. My son also ends each letter with "write back because it helps". Proud father of PV2 Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.08.23 at 03:43:41 PDT

To the father of PV2 Lovejoy,my son is PFCWinters and said the mail is getting there alittle faster lately. Also said he had to do push-ups for getting more then 2 letters a day. He said 35 push-ups were never easier.Keep up the good work soldiers the mail will get there.Father of PFC Winters

said smokey454 2006.08.24 at 07:16:39 PDT

I'm a truly impatient mother---come home from work-check on here to see if new photos have been posted. Can't wait to see more.

said Rooster8254 2006.08.24 at 14:38:22 PDT

Hi, I want to thank you for the pictures. My Grandson PV1 Jason Toungett is in a few of them.It was truly wonderful to get to see him.I am Soooo proud of him. Stay safe and God Bless All.

said gmalinda1 2006.08.24 at 15:39:29 PDT

I wrote to my son, PV2 Lovejoy "Todd" and told him they we as family members are sharing this time together online and there is so much love on here. I told him the guys/girls get to be around each other and share this experience and we all have only met by the Chaplains page. Its great there is so many families out there that love there kids as much as our family loves Todd. Its nice meeting all of you from afar. God Bless you and all our Soldiers. :-)

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.25 at 05:19:34 PDT

Has anyone else noticed that the number of pictures keeps changing the last couple of days. I hope this means new pics are on the way. Proud father of PV2 Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.08.25 at 09:53:02 PDT

Does anyone know how often they have mail call? We still have not gotten any word that our son has received our letters. The last letter he wrote (aug. 17), he was very hurt that we hadn't written yet. He said it was so hard to watch the other guys get mail, and walk away empty handed. This is upsetting and frustrating, we put a letter in the mail everyday. I thought I read somewhere that they get mail on Thursday, but I can't find that place again. Anyone know for sure? He hasn't written since that last letter, he indicated if we were to busy to write, he wouldn't bother either. I know the mail will catch up to him, I just want to know when. :(

said tondeb06 2006.08.25 at 12:05:54 PDT

tondeb06: Please tell me your childs name and i will write to my son (PV2 Lovejoy)and send tomorrow. I will have him send me or his dad "michaeljuli" a response and send you word. Hang in there, I believe they just started receiving letters. It will get better. We will see them soon just keep on keepin on. I send words of inspiration; achievement, determination, etc. from famous peoples quotes to Todd and told him to share with those who may not receive a letter. Also, riddles and jokes (clean) but funny to a teen. Keep smilin, smilin always makes life a little better. That is what I have always told my kids. :-)

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.25 at 14:18:23 PDT

I will gladly help in this matter anyway that I can. I know how frustrating it must be to send letters and not know that they are received. Please keep sending the letters he will eventually get them. Like PV2" Todd" Lovejoys mother said she or I will help anyway we can. All parents ,wives, siblings and grandparents alike feel your pain. With help from each other we will all pull thru this and stand proud on graduation day(Nov.10th)06. Proud father of PV2 Todd Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.08.25 at 14:46:16 PDT

My little brother recieved my letter a week ago and I already got one back from him. He hasn't recieved letters from others that have sent them, so I don't know how they are getting their mail-but they are getting some. I hope to see a picture of my brother on here soon. :)~ I'm so proud of him.Pvt. May. The only name he will now use- and has most definitely earned! P.s. Cazkotzke- That calender idea is great! I'm going to look into that tomorrow.Thanks for the idea :) I'm sure he'll love it.

said MyLilBrosASoldier 2006.08.25 at 18:10:21 PDT

tondeb06: I am getting ready to write Todd and I scrolled down the site and got your sons name.

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.08.25 at 18:36:25 PDT

Ok, all is well, got a letter from my son (RJ) PV Howard today and he sounds so much better. He said he got a bunch of letters at once and had to do a ton of push-ups, but it didn't matter, it was great to hear from home. He said they would be done with red phase at the end of the week and have the test Fri. or Sat. he could not remember which. He said he thinks if they pass the test, they get a 4 hour pass for some free time. Thank you wldrtrkysmom06 for the offer to write your son, it was so very nice of you. I am so relieved to finally hear he started getting letters. Bless you all,

said tondeb06 2006.08.25 at 18:47:22 PDT

tondeb06..have you thought about emailing the commander? he gave his email address in the form letter. maybe he can give you some insight?

said skomom 2006.08.25 at 18:48:46 PDT

Hi...I'm the proud mother of PVT J.Smith of C Co., 2nd BN,58th IN REGT.I would like to give the Chaplain a big thumbs up for all the great photos.They say a pic. is worth a thousand words,boy were they right . It helped me greatly just to be able to see a pic of joshua(#29 & #30).He is so greatly miss by all his family.We all can't wait to get to see him Graduate in Nov.May the Lord bless all of our Soldiers as they prepare to fight for our freedom.If anyone would like to email me the address is NikitasDream2004@yahoo.co m

said NikitasDream 2006.08.25 at 20:39:37 PDT

Hi everyone! PVT Josh Smith's sister here. I just thought I would let everyone know that I sent copies of all our postings in the guest book to my brother and the rest of C Company so they could all see how much everyone cares! I was sure to highlight all their names in each posting that they were mentioned so they could either read all of it or skip right to the ones for them if they were short on time. I sent two copies to be passed around, also, tondeb06, I made your last posting bold and told my brother to make sure your son saw it and knew that you really were writing! I hope no one minds that I have shared this with C Company and I sorry if anyone does have concerns about me sending it.

said stardustnations 2006.08.26 at 08:24:49 PDT

I was hoping to see a pic of my son soon. PVT MANN. I am hoping I am on the right website. These boys are in Fort Benning, right? As far as the mail goes, it is pretty slow. I am just now getting letters from my son acknowledging things I put in his letters a long time ago. Make sure you put a return address on anything you send or it will be thrown out!!

said chippers_15001 2006.08.26 at 14:03:15 PDT

Hi, Just checked to see if there were any new pictures posted. I'm anxiously waiting for more.I'm hoping I'll get a call from my Grandson PV1 J. Toungett today. He said he might get to call in his last letter. He also said his "Battle Buddy" is Joe Simon from Florida. I want Joe's family to know he has made a friend there.Stay safe, God Bless.

said gmalinda1 2006.08.27 at 14:05:39 PDT

re: chippers_15001, Your on the right site. Click on the Company your son is in, and scroll down to the date of his graduation. You can click on the pics to make them larger in order to see your son easier. Hope this helps.

said gmalinda1 2006.08.27 at 14:11:26 PDT

Talked to my son PFC Winters last night and he sounded really good. Only got to talk for about a minute but it was great to here his voice. Red phase should be over soon and phone time should go up for our soldiers.He said everybody is real mail crazy, so to everybody keep writing

said smokey454 2006.08.28 at 08:35:46 PDT

I missed my sons call yesterday. My father in law did speak to him and said he sounded good. Todd stated that Phase 1 is complete, so they should be earning more phone privledges from here on. Can't wait for more photos. Proud father of PV2 Todd Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.08.28 at 11:00:39 PDT

Hey Michaeljuli sounds like our guys are doing pretty good. I am also hoping for more pics soon. Sonnds like the upcoming phases will be more fun. Lets hope so. Proud father of PFC Winters

said smokey454 2006.08.29 at 06:40:46 PDT

Smokey454 I believe that the remainder of the training will still be tough, but with the exceptionof the FTX it should not be nearly as hard. I think they should be used to the routine by now and if not then they probably won't ever be used to it. My son had 3 years of JR ROTC so he knew to a degree what he was getting into. Proud father of PV2 Todd Lovejoy.

said michaeljuli 2006.08.29 at 08:53:24 PDT

Did everyone see that they are redoing Webshots.com? I went to see what the beta was and what the new format would look like and it's going to get a lot harder to do the messages. There aren't even guestbooks anymore, now all the comments from all the companies are all together, you have to sort through each one to read the comments from anyone. I don't know if this is going to be a good thing or a bad thing, but it makes it more difficult to read from any single company and everyone is going to have to identify their soldiers company anytime they post.

said stardustnations 2006.08.29 at 10:57:41 PDT

Talked to my brother pv2 Aaron J Lemieux we r so proud of him. Im glad that he is out of phase 1. The closer he is to comming home. We miss him so much, but glad hes doing what hes always wanted to do. Hoping to see pictures of him real soon. Proud family

said sweetness421 2006.08.29 at 11:15:20 PDT

How often do they add pictures? I am dying to see Anthony. I sent him a disposable camera, but they took it and said they would return it at the end.

said chippers_15001 2006.08.29 at 12:30:54 PDT

I miss my son, PVT Devon Winchester, so much. It was good to see him in his surroundings and the pictures served as an assurant that he is doing well. This means a lot to we parents and I thank you for taking the time to post these pictures for us.

said boredmom62 2006.09.06 at 15:52:44 PDT

This album is great. It shows what these soldiers are doing through their training. You have to hand it to them. We are so very proud of our son. Thank you.

said kkelly3079 2006.09.06 at 17:03:53 PDT

Sweetness421, I talked to my son (PV2 Lovejoy) on Monday, I believe he said your brother, PV2 Lemieux is his battle buddy. Take care all, we will see them soon. Proud Mom.

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.09.07 at 05:11:00 PDT

Heard from my son on Monday, he was enjoying a ton of real food,red bulls & pizza. Of course, later he called me to tell me he threw up! He sounded great and was enjoying his free day talking with all his buddies online and on the phone. Love, Mom

said caskotzke 2006.09.07 at 06:26:51 PDT

Ms. Skotak, Ed tells me that his battle buddy is your son. They're having a really good time together. I think that's great! Ed we miss you and continue to great work, can't wait to see you in November. Love Mom, (Cathy Skotzke)

said caskotzke 2006.09.07 at 06:27:27 PDT

I talked to my husband#316 Pvt Richard French on Monday and He sounded great,We talked for 4 hours.It was so nice to hear his voice &know I didnt have to hang up in a few minutes. Cant wait to meet all you guys at graduation!Have a blessed day!!

said janiemae73 2006.09.07 at 06:46:22 PDT

Finally our own guestbook again. I missed my sons call on Monday. I was working. I saw on here that his mother has talked to him and he left a message on his my space. I can't see him and all of his company mates.

said michaeljuli 2006.09.07 at 13:20:47 PDT

Only so much space so I will just leave consecutive posts. Can't wait for new pics the last ones were great. Proud father of PV2 Michael T. Lovejoy II

said michaeljuli 2006.09.07 at 13:22:46 PDT

I had a good laugh, any time they get mail with hearts drawn on the envelope or the envelope is pink, purple, etc...they have to do 50 pushups.I guess all the girls who write Mark like to decorate the envelopes..but he said the pushups are worth the mail.

said skomom 2006.09.07 at 15:37:03 PDT

According to PV2 Lovejoy's mother PV2 Lemiuex is my sons battle buddy. I would like to know his roster # so I can look for him in the pics. I recieved a letter and a package yesterday, but I am out of town of course. Can't wait for more pics.

said michaeljuli 2006.09.08 at 09:38:38 PDT

Thank you Ed for the beautiful dog tag necklace with your picture engraved on it. It says mother of a soldier, Love Ed. I will wear it close to my heart, I love it! Keep up the great work! And send more pictures!

said caskotzke 2006.09.09 at 07:28:32 PDT

We were so happy to hear our son's voice again. His sister was waiting to hear a southern drawl, but not yet, maybe by grad. He sure was happy to have a pizza, milkshake and to get on myspace, and catch up with friends. His brother does his blog for him.

said tondeb06 2006.09.09 at 12:46:49 PDT

It is nice to have the guestbook back, but the limited space is frustrating. I saw the new muddy pics, and found my son PV Howard (RJ). He is in 1st platoon, anyone else' soldier in 1st platoon?

said tondeb06 2006.09.09 at 12:51:46 PDT

I am so happy we got our guestbook back! I got a call from my brother PVT Joshua Smith #346 on Monday, he sounded great! He got to send a birthday present for his niece Akira, she just turned 6. Cont. in next message, no space! Frustrating!

said stardustnations 2006.09.09 at 22:33:21 PDT

He sent her a little brown teddy bear wearing a white tee-shirt that said Fort Benning, GA with some kind of rifle and knife simble that said "Follow Me". She really loves it and won't put it down, she wanted to take it to school! :)

said stardustnations 2006.09.09 at 22:34:44 PDT

How is everybody doing? Well, we are over half way through!! YAY Maybe we will get more pics soon..Keeping my fingers crossed! Hope everybody has a Blessed Day!! Proud of Our Soldiers!!!

said janiemae73 2006.09.12 at 20:29:25 PDT

Hey everyone! Looks like everyone is still doing fine. I dont know about you all but I miss my boy something bad. But I know he is happy. Thats a good thing. I cant wait to see him ;-) Pictures would be good! Like the chaplain doesnt have

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.09.13 at 14:52:45 PDT

anything else to do but take pics of our kids or family members. lol We are almost there everybody, won't be long now. Kinda like wishing your life away but hey, I dont mind if it means seeing Todd.Can I get a "Diddo"? Bless all of you and our families.

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.09.13 at 14:54:53 PDT

I could not believe my eyes when I saw my sons picture. I think these pictures are awesome! I can now see how some of his days have been. He looks great ! Thank you Chaplain for taking the time to capture these photos! It means alot to all of us !!

said imp60101 2006.09.13 at 16:56:27 PDT

I miss my husband like crazy!!! Yes i find myself wishing my life away. I keep extra busy so i keep my mind off missing him so much. Only 55 more days..seems like an eternity. Looking forward to meeting all of you on Grad Day!!!Have a wonderful Day!

said janiemae73 2006.09.13 at 19:14:32 PDT

Have had a few conversations with my son and he sounds great, now that red phase has ended. Miss him like crazy and can't wait to see him. Not sure who's more anxious for November 10th, me or him! Love you Corey - See you soon! So proud of all of you.

said donna567456 2006.09.14 at 10:18:46 PDT

There is also another website where you might catch a glimpse of your soldier. My son sent the info today. the website is www.soldierschapel.info I received a letter today, Mark said they qualify on their M-16's tomorrow...Good luck boys!

said skomom 2006.09.14 at 15:40:31 PDT

Thanks for the info on the other web site skomom. Being able to see the pictures really helps. Really, really miss my son PV2 Dan Kelly. Can't wait to see him on Nov. 10th. He sounds very happy and loves what he is doing. We are so proud of him.

said kkelly3079 2006.09.15 at 09:56:03 PDT

Thank you for the pictures. I check them every day. This way I feel my son is not as far away. His father and I are so proud of him.

said stormygales11 2006.09.16 at 05:51:30 PDT

Hello all! Hope everybody is doing good and hanging in there....8 weeks left YAY!!! Are there any army wives in C company? Please email me!...janiemae73@yahoo.co m...Proud army wife!!!Where does everybody live? I live in North Carolina.

said janiemae73 2006.09.16 at 13:53:23 PDT

To all you who have been leaving comments, if you would like to talk to other family members of these Brave Soldiers, leave your emails, mine is painpak@aol.com. I love talking to others with soldiers. Have made some great new friends. God Bless, Kim

said painpak 2006.09.19 at 07:49:57 PDT

I really appreciate being able to see my son and know he's doing well...along with his squad, platoon and company. I'm looking forward to seeing new pictures, it's been almost three weeks since new ones have been posted. Thanks for your efforts!

said proudmom32 2006.09.19 at 09:19:56 PDT

I only found my nephew twice in all of these pics. The ones I did see, he looked like he was working hard!!! Good Job Robby. Anyone from Geneva,il area going to graduation? I was told to leave on Wed. and fly back fri. night.

said AuntPam0767 2006.09.19 at 15:03:59 PDT

Great new pictures. Thank you so much Chaplain for taking care of us anxious parents. These pictures and this small way we can be part of our boy's lives right now mean the world.

said skomom 2006.09.21 at 17:02:55 PDT

I miss you Mr. Sunshine!

said wldrtrkysmom06 2006.09.22 at 17:44:35 PDT

Thank you Chaplain for the new pics. As other parents have said, having the pictures makes our son not so far away. Again,thank you for taking the time to do this for us.

said kkelly3079 2006.09.22 at 18:53:08 PDT

The new pics are great. Did not see my son,PV2 Lovejoy, but thats ok. I have some great pics from the previous bunch. We(they) are half way and I am so excited to see my son. We can all stand proud of our family members Nov. 10th. See everyone soon. Proud father of PV2 Todd Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.09.23 at 05:43:17 PDT

Loved seeing new pics, unfortunately didn't see my son. Found out he (PV1 Ed Skotzke) qualified to be a sharp shooter. I think that's awesome. I haven't received a phone call in over two weeks, anyone else not hearing from their soldier? Can't wait until Nov. 10th! Keep up the good work soldiers and loved ones of our soldiers!

said caskotzke 2006.09.25 at 09:25:48 PDT

caskotzke--- I haven't heard anything in 2 weeks either!

said aubsie 2006.09.26 at 12:26:03 PDT

I haven't heard anything From my son either. He wrote a couple of letters to his mother and his grandfather, but that is it. Come on Nov. 10th. More pics please. Proud father of PV2 Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.09.26 at 13:12:16 PDT

We haven't heard from our son either (PV1 RJ Howard). He did write and say that they have lost their 4 hr. time on Sundays the last couple weeks, and are given 5 min. calls at 1330, but at 1030 our time we are at Church so he doesn't even try. I wrote back, told him to call my cel I'll walk outside for 5 min. just to hear his voice, God will understand.:)

said tondeb06 2006.09.26 at 14:14:15 PDT

I don't know if anyone that is posting here is from the west coast, but I was wondering if anyone has found any good deals on airline tickets to GA. Maybe someone has come across families of service member discounts or something?

said tondeb06 2006.09.26 at 14:23:58 PDT

I sure miss hearing from Mark. Last time we spoke was Labor Day. I missed his call on the 10th..and nothing since. :( You are right..November cannot come fast enough!

said skomom 2006.09.26 at 16:15:11 PDT

Message to all. This is Chaplain Chris Rusack, and I am so glad that you all have enjoyed seeing your Soldiers in training. I have been away on leave for a couple weeks and have just recently returned. I will try to make it out to C Co this week and take some new pictures. I briefly met with the men of C Co yesterday and they are doing very well. Spirits are high, and of course they can't wait to see you. They, as well as all of you are continually in my prayers. Chaplain Rusack

said chaplain258 2006.09.26 at 18:54:53 PDT

Thank you for the message chaplain!!! We(family members)appreciate you very much. If we sometimes seem impatient, I hope you understand. I think you are doing a great job. We are very fortunate because of you. God bless you and all our soldiers. Proud father of PV2 Lovejoy

said michaeljuli 2006.09.27 at 03:40:06 PDT

Thank you Chaplain.

said skomom 2006.09.27 at 04:22:02 PDT

Thank you very much Chaplain, we are all very appreciative to see our wonderful soldiers. Everyone should be hearing from your loved one soon. They have just come back from their 3-day camp out. Oct.6th they will have free time...it marks the end of boot camp, and the start of AIT. They haven't been receiving mail regularly...but keep the letters coming..it's worth the push-ups. :)

said proudmom32 2006.09.27 at 08:48:02 PDT

To tondeb06...I have not found any great discounts on airfares. However, look at landing at Montgomery, AL...it's cheaper than Atlanta or Columbus. With gas prices going down, there's hope that airlines tickets will go down some too. Our plane changes in Atlanta, where we'll have the option to drive from there or Montgomery. Good luck...hope to see everyone in November! Proud mom of PVT Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2006.09.27 at 09:01:12 PDT

Hello, All I am a late comer to this site. I am the proud mom of PVT Sean White. I have heard from him a couple of times and he is very happy and loving Army life already. I have only found a couple pictures that I KNOW are him! but it sure is great to see him. Hope to meet up with some of you at graduation.

said erin_gilroy 2006.09.27 at 13:58:40 PDT

Thank you, Chaplain for all the hard work you have done, taking and posting pics!!It is a highlight to be able to see my hubby (french) and all that they are doing in the training. My kids love to see their dad in the pics. May God Richly Bless You!............as far as airplane tickets try airtran.com they seem to be the cheapest?? hope that helps...Is anyone going down for the pass on Oct 6+7? ...Have a wonderful Day!! Proud Wife of Pvt Rick French!!

said janiemae73 2006.09.27 at 19:00:30 PDT

42 days!!!! That seems like an eternity, but i am sure it will fly by. Its hard to believe its been 2 months already. I hope the message from Chaplain Rusack made everyone else feel as good as it did me. I did not know they have leave on the 6th and 7th. I wish I could make the trip, but I can't. If any of you do and happen to see PV2 Lovejoy, tell him we will see him soon and we love him. Proud father of PV2 Lovejoy.

said michaeljuli 2006.09.28 at 05:41:44 PDT

Thank you Chaplain Rusack! We all appreciate the work and prayers you do for us. Still hoping to hear from my son. I'll be on vacation in Cancun when they're on their 36 hr break, but I was hoping to hear from Ed before I leave. If not, Ed if you read these on your break, I love you, I'll send you a postcard from Cancun and dad and I can't wait to see you in November! We love you and are so proud, I wear my necklace everyday and so does Spenser!

said caskotzke 2006.09.28 at 08:54:33 PDT

Thank you, Chaplain Rusack, I really enjoy the pictures and they make the separation a little easier. Sean, if you read this on your break, I just wasn't able to make it work to come out. I will see you on Nov. 10th. I am