This is a song I composed. I would like to dedicate it to all the Heroes of 9/11 and the families of Fallen Heroes as well as to our men and women in uniform.
Out of the rubble, we stood taller than ever. And forged ahead with hope and determination.
To find and defeat the enemy ~ Our brave men and women endured the pain of war
And many made the ultimate sacrifice
Let's not forget the unsung heroes: the families of our warriors.

In a letter to the northern California newspaper Record Searchlight, I found this
November 14, 2011

From Duane Stacher, Etna

Community support is morale booster

As a soldier in the Army in the 1970s, one joined for many reasons. Most were "can't afford college" or "enlist or go to jail." At that time the military was a very unpopular place to be. We tried to hide the fact that we were soldiers, hiding long hair under our "covers." To be called a "lifer" by a fellow soldier was a derogatory remark. The only notice given by non-military was sour looks or jeers and physical gestures. Very few were proud to be in the military. It was just a job.

As I am preparing to deploy to a foreign land once again, my time in uniform has changed so dramatically. We just finished a yellow ribbon event, in which all types of organizations and individuals came to our unit to bring contacts and information for the soldiers, but more important to the family members staying behind, who have the hardest part of a deployment. With this information the soldiers know that their families will be looked after and taken care of in our absence.

I am so deeply touched by the everyday citizens of our communities. Some have served in the military or had loved ones serve. Some have never had any contact with the military, yet they give of their time, love and money. Much of the support comes from community groups: Home Guard, Elks, Lions, Rotary, South Siskiyou Republican Women, and many others. For our citizens to stand in the cold rain and snow in the dark of night at our armory to hand out gift boxes filled with holiday turkeys, hams and all the fixings is truly a gift of love. The appreciation is very real. My wife, not looking forward to a year alone, cries with the gesture of caring from strangers, knowing that our sacrifice is appreciated.

I wish I could thank one and all individually but know that if I tried I would miss someone. To all who read this and are the citizens that I have mentioned above, know that we in uniform do truly feel very fortunate and proud to be able to serve our citizens, communities and country.

I could not be prouder of my time in uniform than I am today.

[© 2011 Record Searchlight. redding.com]