Since 2003, when the war began I have always made an effort to keep up on the latest news involving the war, participate in projects to support the troops, and of course keep the men and women serving in my prayers. I realized, however, a couple months ago how a person's view on the war can change when it all of a sudden becomes personal.

Brian, my husband Kevin's brother, left for Iraq on November 29, 2007.

He said a tearful goodbye to his beautiful 1-year-old daughter, Aurora, and his wonderfully supportive wife of 4 years, Corrie, who is currently pregnant with baby number 2.

I remember the feeling I had when I said goodbye to Brian when our whole family went for a final weekend visit to Louisiana (where he and his wife have been stationed since 2005). My churning stomach was in complete knots. I was searching for every hidden ounce of composure I had within me to help me force tears back.

Ya know how normally when you're saying goodbye to a person, if you don't want them to leave you can at least plead your case and do everything in your power to try and change their mind about going? In some cases, if the reasons to stay out-weigh the reasons to go- a change of plans can be made. This was truly the most unique goodbye I had ever experienced. A rush of helplessness came over me as I looked at my feet avoiding eye contact with Brian. I knew there was nothing that any of us could do to change the fact that Brian had to leave for Iraq the following week.

As I hugged Brian goodbye I wanted to do something to change the situation. Inside I wanted a chance to plead my case . . . to Brian, to the person in charge . . . to anyone who would listen. It's not a good time! His baby is only 1 . . . she needs her dad. His wife will be here all by herself. Christmas is a month away- he needs to be with his family! . . . and a million other thoughts that we screaming inside my head.

But Brian, like so many other men and women that are currently serving (or who have been serving) our country for the past (almost) 5 years since the war began, was brave. Whatever he was feeling inside his head as he said goodbye, I wouldn't know. He didn't give excuses why the time isn't right, why it shouldn't have to be him. He didn't say that it's unfair, he just said he'd see us when he got back.

We are all so incredibly proud of Brian for serving. As a Chaplin, Brian is able to serve our country by providing the men and women serving in his Unit with counsel in their time of need. He organizes small social events and delivers a message every other week at church services for our soldiers.

If you're a teacher, a parent, a girl scout leader, or a person who wants to show your support by writing a letter, or having your class, or children send a care package to Brian and the men and women in his Unit you can send them to this address:

Brian Cieslukowski (No Rank)
HHB 5/25 FA
Unit # 41542
FOB Rustamiyah
APO, AE 09390

FOR MORE INFORMATION: EMAIL DANA.