True sacrifice provides perspective (06/30/08)

To the editor:

Wednesday morning, I was in a bad mood. You see, I had just gotten the news that I did not receive a position that I had interviewed for the day before. After I listened to the "thank you for your time, best of luck in the future" voicemail, I fell into a depressed state and proceeded to throw myself a pity party. Was I too young? Did I say something wrong? Did they just not like me? All throughout the morning, I contemplated on why, exactly, they didn't hire me.

I went home on my lunch break and tried to comfort myself by eating too many carbs and watching favorite shows saved on my DVR. It didn't make me feel much better, but on the bright side at least I got to watch America's Next Top Model and probably gained a few pounds.

On my way back to work, I noticed the giant flag being raised over Meridian Street and people standing at every stoplight. I then remembered that the body of Lance Corporal Andrew Whitacre was being brought home today.

I hadn't planned on watching, actually I had almost forgot, but something compelled me to stand with the other citizens beside the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home. I shouldn't have gone really, I needed to be at work, but still I locked up the office and headed down the street and waited with everyone else.

After a few moments of watching the Marines standing at attention in the parking lot, the procession came. Andrew was escorted back into Jay County by police of several towns, Indiana State Troopers and the Patriot Guard Riders. Not to mention the many close friends and family that had came. As Andrew was carried ceremoniously into the funeral home, I watched his friends and family closely with a broken heart. Our community had lost a brave son. And because God's timing was ever so perfect, it had begun raining just as the last of the family followed the Marines into the funeral home doors.

I walked back to work in the rain with tears running down my face. Suddenly, my selfish depression from that morning had seemed so trivial. Who cared that I didn't get the job? God has blessed me with a wonderful, supportive family and my Marine brother is still safe in the States. I have so much to be thankful for and nothing to be depressed about. Because of the self-sacrificing people like young Lance Corporal Andrew Whitacre, I am able to enjoy these blessings.

Andrew, I never had the privilege of meeting you. But thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice for this great country and it's citizens. Semper Fi.

Emily Calhoun

Portland

Beyond words

To the editor:

The support and honor paid to Lance Cpl. Andrew Whitacre, his family and friends by the citizens of Bryant, Portland, Jay and the surrounding counties was beyond words and truly touched our hearts.

Carol and I would like to thank each and everyone who has helped Ernie and Norma Whitacre and Casey McGuire through this very tough time.

We are proud to say we were born and raised in Jay County.

Bill and Carol Schabacker

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