Elmer's Brother

I met the Christon's recently as we were both getting gas for our vehicles. They've started a project to honor those Americans who are fighting for our freedom. Tom is himself an Army Vietnam War veteran and their son is an Iraqi Freedeom Vet. The Christon's project involves getting sports teams to sponsor one the Chad's Angels sculpture to be placed at military hospitals throughout the country. Here's an excerpt from their website Angels for Soldiers: (Dawn wanted me to let you know that the website is under construction)

“Mom, I’m going to Iraq.”

What does a mother do with that information? First, she prays. No, honestly, I’m ashamed to say, first she panics, then, she prays. ‘Please, God, take care of my son! Please protect all of our brave soldiers. Please send your best Guardian Angels to watch over them.”

My name is Dawn, and I am the very proud mother of an American soldier who is fighting the war in Iraq. After the initial paralyzing fear (and after the pity party), you have to get on with your life. What kind of soldiers’ mother am I, if I can’t be a trooper? After all, this country has fought many wars and all of our soldiers had parents, spouses, children, siblings and grand-parents, aunts and uncles, cousins and friends who love them and fear for their safety.

Just a little over a week after hearing this news, my sister Kelly and I went to the Scottsdale Art Festival, where I saw the inspirational work of local artist Ron Head. After three days and two sleepless nights, I went back to the art show and asked Ron if he would make a sculpture of a soldier with a guardian angel. My request touched his heart and this is the magnificent result.

Founded in 2003, during the Iraq conflict and our war on terror “Chad’s Angel” is committed to God and country. “America’s Angels Foundation” is a 501-C3 (non-profit company), donating to the Wounded Warrior’s Fund.

Thank a vet today.