My son is going to Iraq

[Wahine]

You and your son are in my thoughts. I come from a military family. I understand. ((((((((HUGS))))))))

[sandra]

My son spent a year there 4 years ago when he was 22 (23 when he came home.) He didn't have a girlfriend at the time, but he also said how hard it is on couples.

He is now 27 and getting married in March. We keep thinking he will have to go back soon.

I know how you feel. I'll keep your son in my thoughts and prayers. If I can help in any way, feel free to PM me.

[Zen]

I read that topic and my heart sank - for you, for me, for anyone who has seen a child (or will see a child) head off to a war zone...

Change 'child' to 'family member'. Being deployed mucks up the entire family dynamic. it's different for each member and I'm sure it's especially hell for a mom.
Heres hoping he comes home of sound body and mind.

[nancy sv]

I'm sorry.

[GLC1968]

I'm sorry, Robyn. Here's hoping he's back on home turf, safe and sound, sooner rather than later.

[three]

I'm so sorry to read that your son is heading to Iraq. No matter what your views are on the war, getting the news that your son (or daughter) is being shipped off is never pleasant.

Please keep us posted on his status and I'm sure we'll all be keeping him in our prayers.

I may be staunchly against the war and current administration, but I'm 150% in support of the troops over there. I just "adopted" a soldier through a non-profit and will be sending him a letter each week and care package each month. Everything on the organization's site stresses how valuable those letters are and what a difference they can make for the soldier. I (and I'm sure others on here) would be happy to include your son in my weekly soldier letter-writing. It's always fun to get real mail, and I'm sure - especially nice to get it when you're stationed overseas.

Many blessings and prayers to him, and to you.

[sundial]

My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your son. I have so much respect for the men and women who make daily sacrifices to ensure not only our freedoms, but those who are struggling for theirs.

Semper Fi!

[mountainchick]

Robyn,

As a spouse of a military member, I know what it's like and thoughts and best wishes to your famliy and him.

Please let me know if you'd like anything for a care package!

And tell him "thank you" from us.

[Crankin]

I will let him know that he may get letters and care packages from a bunch of crazy women cyclists. He would love it. If it wasn't for him, I would not be riding. He changed our whole family. Even though he doesn't ride that often now, he still is interested in articles and news of the cycling world, especially the TdF and other major races. He is a really good runner now (5 min. mile) and swims really well, too. I see triathalons in his future.
When I get more information, I will post his address, etc.
Thanks, everyone. Although I am very proud of him, it is hard for me, ex-protester who spent most of her teenage years marching on the Boston Common.

Robyn

[Triskeliongirl]

Hi Robyn- just know all our thoughts are with you hoping for his safe return home. As a mom, I really can imagine what you must be feeling right now. Feel free to come here for support anytime you need to. And I do appreciate your reply to the post about my son. -e

[sbctwin]

{{{{Robyn}}}} I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

[Mr. Bloom]

Robyn, I really hope you find strength through this and that he'll be safe throughout his deployment.

I'm really hoping this will be over soon

[susan.wells]

My sincerest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I have two sons both in their twenties so this hits very close to home. It is incomprehensible to me how you must feel. May he return safely and soundly.

[KnottedYet]

((((Robyn))))) I'll keep you guys in my thoughts.

[sandra]

I meant to ask, when is he going? Do you know where he will train before he goes? (I'm wondering if he will be here in Mississippi at Camp Shelby).