A voice from Afghanistan

Tiffany Tompkins-Condie, our photographer/Military Moms blogger, forwarded me an e-mail this morning that was so humbling it made both of us cry. She has it posted, too, but I hope you agree that it's worth this double exposure.

After her blog yesterday on Mr. C -- a local angel to those who are serving and their families -- Tiffany got an email from a soldier stationed in Afghanistan. SSG John King, who noted he has been in communications for six years, wanted us to know that Mr. C has been awesome for him and countless others. And John also reached out to Tiffany, thanking her for her blog. It's always an amazing feeling when we realize that some story or effort by the Bradenton Herald has touched someone and helped them.

Here's John's e-mail:

Ma'am,

I am a soldier currently stationed in Afghanistan. I've received two care packages from Mr. C and his class. I plan on dropping in on him and his class when I return in March. I also am touched when I realize how much people back home really care. A lot of people go out of their way to make sure they let us know they are thinking about us. It's a great thing they do and you'd be surprised how much of a difference it makes for us here.

You are doing a great thing as well. I read your blogs daily. They kind of help me feel closer to home. I can imagine my mother going through the same things that you articulate so well. Thank you for the service you are providing.

Sincerely,
John

Thank you, sir. We owe a lot to you.

Joan