Homecomings

In the past week there has been homecomings for many Rochester area families.  The Red Bulls, Minnesota's National Guard, who have been deployed for over a year have been making their way home in waves. 

I am happy that they are back.  Children are reunited with their parents, spouses back together again, and parents with their son or daughter.  I'm sure there are many homecoming parties to celebrate.  Sadly, in the midst of this joy, there is a homecoming that I relate to most. 

Sgt Nicholas Dickhut will be coming home to his family.  Not with open arms for a hug, but with the American flag draped over him with dignity.  Last Sunday, April 30th, Sgt Dickhut lost his life in a small arms battle in Afghanistan. 

This homecoming has made me relive many of the events and emotions my family went through two years ago.  The difficult trip to Dover to witness the dignified transfer, and to make decisions no parent should have to make in order to bury their son.  The streams of family and friends coming to our home over the week to visit or help out, yet I barely recall them in my daze.  The feelings of dispare I know they are now going through, I am reliving myself.  Although the feelings are not as heart wrenching and deep as they were two years ago, they are still very painful, knowing another family must go through this.

I will go to the services for Sgt Dickhut.  It meant so much to me that many Gold Star Families were at Curtis' services.  The support I received from them is priceless, and I want to be there for his family as well.  Just as I wish things had been different for us, my wish to never having to do this for another family was not meant to be. 

Rest in Peace Nicholas, you will not be forgotten.