Return of the 33rd

The National Guard's 33rd MP Battalion returned from Iraq yesterday to a hero's welcome in Bloomington. All 70 of those deployed returned home safely after spending a year in Iraq. Alex and I were among the bystanders on Veteran's Parkway when I photographed their departure back in June of 2006. I don't know any of these soldiers, but I felt a warmth in my heart as I watched the smiles on their faces, and the faces of their loved ones. It was an event I'll never forget.

Welcome home.

I took a bunch of photos, the best of which can be viewed here. If anyone from the 33rd happens to stumble across this post and would like a digital copy of any one of my photos, email a note to webmaster@syslfrog.com and I'll gladly email it/them to you.

Summer Vacation - The Briests

Well, we're back. We just returned from a week long trip out West to visit family and friends in both South Dakota and Iowa. We had a great time visiting with people, and as usual, took lots of pictures.

Our trip officially began when we stopped in Yankton, SD to visit with Corey Briest and his family. We hadn't seen them since a chance meeting in Storm Lake, IA about 6 years ago. Corey, who was wounded in Iraq, and is unable to see, was in really good spirits. He and his family had only recently returned from California to a much deserved hero's welcome.

Here are some photos of our visit.

 

 

 

This is a very well done video showing the journey that Corey Briest has been on since he embarked on his mission to Iraq in 2005. When I watch this video, I am inspired not only by the courage of Corey, but by the tremendous strength of his wife Jenny, and his mother Diane. This is a family that defines inspiration.

Corey Briest Story

This is the story about Corey Briest that was aired on CBS news. Corey was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq and sustained massive head injuries. This is a short snippet of his life after returning to the United States. His story is a testament to the reality that hell doesn't just reside on the battlefield. Michele stayed with Corey and his Mom Diane while attending the University of South Dakota 12 years ago. She has fond memories of spending time with Corey, and playing Nertz with him. Nertz was one of many games Corey taught Michele how to play. She cherishes the memories of those happy times together. Our hearts go out to Corey and his family, we hope that he gets the care that he needs, and deserves. You can learn more about Corey and his road to recovery by following this link to Caring Bridge, then just enter CoreyBriest in the site name box.

Here are some links for information about Corey:
CBS News
Argus Leader photo gallery
Argus Leader story
Argus Leader story 2
Operation Firing for Effect
Stephanie Herseth
Veterans Today
Mia Culpa
Update - June 20, 2007
Here is a new link to a new story about Corey in the Argus Leader. The family is receiving donations from kind people all over the nation, and that money is being used to build a handicap accessible home for Corey and his family.

National Guard Send Off

Sometimes pictures tell a story better than words ever could. Soldiers from MClean County were leaving for Iraq, and the city responded with an outpouring of well wishes. Good Luck guys, we look forward to your safe return.