He is one of the few, I am one of the many proud

On our ride home from Las Vegas, in the course of sharing the happenings of the week, R told me that he thinks his boyhood friend, Dave Bellon has gone back to Iraq.

Dave was called up in 2003 as a Major in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. He and his wife had settled comfortably into their southern California home. His law practice was going well. They welcomed children into the world. He was called to active duty, he proudly went and he honorably served.

Last summer, Sue graciously invited us to her home as we were planning a visit to her area. We accepted. She was the perfect hostess- the guest house was stocked with sodas, bottled water, snacks of every variety, fresh fruit, clean sheets, and a hot shower. It was the end of July and the weather was dreamy. The ocean breeze kissed your shoulders like a sleepy-eyed lover and then wrapped itself around you comfortingly. We slept with the windows and the large sliding-glass doors open. Their Newfoundland positioned himself between us and the world and we slept soundly. In the morning we arose to freshly brewed Starbuck's coffee and a Mocha for me. She took R on a two mile run and not only kept the pace, but had a complete conversation-this was impressive to R. We had pizza and Margaritas one night. We hit the beach and body surfed and dug and watched little sand crabs furiously bury themselves after we rudely turned them over. We shopped and had delicious fish tacos and shrimp burritos. Our kids played together.

She had an early appointment to keep the morning we left, but she hugged us good-bye and left the home to us.

Several months later, through e-mail, we found out that Dave was returning home. His family welcomed him back to the states; their arms. They celebrated his safe arrival (in several time zones) and his commendable tour of duty. His family was finally removed from the iron lung in which they had been encapsulated since his departure.

He went on a hunting/fishing trip (maybe several); he returned to his office; the love of his wife's arms; the adoration of his children's hearts; to the relief of his clients. He did not terminate his service in the Reserves. Obedience to his oath and to his conviction of helping a country of people, so abused by one who should have lived to serve them rather than himself, was strong; fortified even more so by his tour. He loves his God and trusts Him to deliver divine justice to the Iraqi people, perhaps even through the faith and service of one Marine. He loves his family, and trusts their prayers and support to be the strength in his legs. He loves his country, and trusts the people of it to stand behind him in his service to them. He loves his Marine Corps and trusts his brothers to walk with him into the battle prepared and trustworthy; ready to defend him, their commrades, and to complete the mission honorably and completely.

Dave was asked to go back. He did. So, at the risk of appearing scurrilous, I say to all the whining liberals: go home, eat, sleep well and remember who makes it possible. It isn't you, your dead bolts, or your security system. It is the men and women in service to the this country and their desire to see others sleep in their beds unafraid and awaken alive in them in the morning.

Thank you, Dave, and the coffee is on its way.