THE JOURNAL OF A SOLDIERS WIFE

December 20, 2004

The last time I saw you, you were in blue. I remember it so well because it accented your eyes. The last time we talked, you said, “I love you” to me. I distinctly remember because I love you too. Now that we are apart, it’s hard to say what I want to, or exactly what is on my mind. Although I know you are coming home someday, I still find it hard to be by myself with the kids. The radio updated me on the circumstances. I guess I just don’t want to accept the fact that one of these days, your name might be read on the “Killed In Action” list. What would I tell the kids?

December 21, 2004

Days have been long. I can barely sleep at night thinking about what tomorrow may or may not bring. I don’t want any UNWANTED news to disturb my peace. I just want you to show up at the door. I want to see your face, touch your hand, and kiss your lips… anything and everything I haven’t been able to do since you have been gone. Doesn’t the president know I need you here with me? If he does, then why doesn’t he send you back?

December 22, 2004

I received a letter from you today. I was so happy to hear from you. The neighbor girl advised me not to look in the envelope too much… because I probably wouldn’t find you in the bottom of it.

December 23, 2004

The kids wrote their letters to Santa today. They were nothing like I was expecting. Marianna wrote:

“Dear Santa,

This year, I don’t want toys. I don’t want candy canes, caramel popcorn, or even that puppy I have been asking for. I don’t want you to give me anything fancy. Forget the Barbie’s, and the Easy Bake Ovens. Can you simply wrap my daddy up and him under the tree? I think he may be overseas. [Mommy says he is.] I don’t have the directions, but I am sure you know how to find him. I trust you and I know you can do it. And I will give you money for gas for the sleigh… or grain for the reindeer so they have enough energy… but the long drive and ride is worth this present. I promise. It would mean the world to me.

Thank You,

Marianna”

David wrote:

“Dear Santa,

I miss my daddy. He hasn’t seen my new shoes. I got the ones with the air pump in the flap so that I can shot the hoops like Michael Jordan does. Can you bring him to me… he needs to be here for Christmas… you understand.

Thank You,

David”

I know that what they wrote is really simple, but it touched my heart and made me cry. I know Santa cannot bring you here. Obviously. But I do hope he can maybe bring a letter with good news.

December 24, 2004

Here it is, two letters for the kids they’re even address from Santa. But I know your handwriting. I know they are from you dear. I know it is cause you sent one to me too for a personal Christmas gift. I put the letters under the tree for the kids. Marianna and David keep looking at them envelopes waiting for Christmas to strike. I heard David ask her if you were in one… she snapped at him and said, “THE ENVELOPES ARE TOO SMALL!” I want them to open them as much as they do.

December 25, 2004

It’s 6:00am. I can’t sleep. I can’t stand being away from you. ESPECIALLY on Christmas day. I am watching the news now… the Iraqi war seems to have no end in sight.

The kids woke up at 7:00am. They hurried straight to the tree and grabbed their letters. I watched as they carefully read each word precisely, making sure not to miss one thing. They perked up when they were finished. David even said, “These aren’t from Santa… they are from daddy.”

December 26, 2004

It is exactly 12:13am. I just read your letter. It was beautiful. I wanted to wait until the grandfather clock struck midnight so I could read it on our anniversary. Ohhh- every word was so beautiful. I have never in my life wanted you with me more than I do at this exact moment in time. I keep your wedding band close to my hear on the chain around my neck. I can’t stop grasping it when I feel I am missing you.

Ps. Your letter to me…

“My Dearest Julie:

MERRY CHRISTMAS! But more importantly HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! What I wouldn’t give to be with you… brushing the hair from your face each morning, and watching you fall asleep each night.

What I wouldn’t give to kiss you, hold you and never let go.

I have done nothing but anticipate a notice from my captain saying I can go home. Finally one arrived today. I am flying out of here on New Year’s Day. So save me that New Year’s kiss!

See you soon pumpkin. I will be counting every second until I am with my kids, my wife and the place I belong again. I love you more than a billion shinning stars in the sky.

~Erick

December 27, 2004

I informed Marianna and a David of you coming home. She insisted she be the one to tell David. She woke him up at 8:00am to “deliver the news.” That’s what she told me. Remember the life-size doll of Marianna’s? She put a picture of your face on it and a big banner saying:

“I’M ON MY WAY HOME SPORT!”

She put it in David’s room next to his new shoes. David screamed when he saw it. I could tell he was much more than excited. We all are.

December 28, 2004

The phones have been tied up all day here. With Marianna and David wanting to call the whole nation to let them know you are coming home, the house phone has been assigned to David and Marianna has use of my cell. (those are going to be two large bills- but they are worth every penny.)

December 29, 2004

I just got today’s mail. I had to drive to the post office to get it. There was a sack of 100 letters for us. FROM ALL OVER! The kids called everyone and anyone. They even called the news. They are coming here to interview the kids to get a reaction. I put all the cards and letters in the guest room that has gradually turned itself into “Erick’s War Memorial Room” since you have left.

Lord have mercy! My Erick baby is coming home to me!

December 30, 2004

I cleaned up the house today. Made it nice for you to come home to. I cried all day. I guess it is just the anxiety of seeing you. I cannot even express the anticipation my heart is going through.

December 31, 2004

Marianna and David went to bed early. They said, “Time goes by faster if we are sleeping. Daddy will be here faster then.”

January 1, 2005

I heard the news at half past two this morning. Channel 12 covered the scene of the accident. I was so devastated when they said there were no survivors. I am so unsure of what to tell the kids. How are they going to take it? What are they going to say? How do I tell them without breaking their little hearts that the Iraqi’s shot down the plane their father was on? How do I tell them in so many words?

Its 5pm now. I told them earlier. I haven’t seen them since. They have been crying in their rooms all day and into the night. Neither wants dinner and had no lunch. I made them sandwiches and a glass of milk and left it by their doors. I just don’t know what to do. I think I will go to bed early and think. I love you so much Erick.

January 2, 2005 Erick’s Entry

It’s 7am. This might be awkward. I came home today. I wasn’t on the plane that was shot down. They moved me before take off and that’s when it happened. I saw it all too. It was crazy. The sight still moves in my mind. But I thank God and my lucky stars that I lived. I had a change in my life within a second. And I am home now. I think I will go and wake up my darling wife and my little princess and price. Let them know I am ok.

Julie’s Entry

What a day… he came home. There was someone watching over him. And I knew he’d be back. And now that he is, I am not going to let him leave again.

Floods Rage Through the Twin Tiers

July 26, 2005

Devouring anything in its path, the water continued to rise without any sight of stopping. With damage all over, Conklin and Kirkwood (shown in the pictures) were not the only ones that saw continous pools of dirty water in their backyards. Literally. And with the rain continuing to fall, the water has nowhere else to go.

The flooding continued to make its rounds around the Southern Tier, with outrageous water levels tearing up houses and flooding out the Union Endicott football field. In which had to cancel games and post pone them to other dates.

Water trucks attempted to suck up some of the water, but that didn't help with more water pouring in from the rivers and streams nearby.

Driving to or home from work was also a hassle due to the flooding. Roadways and even driveways were swimming with the fishes. Local authorities had blocked over many roads including Main Street in Kirkwood, and Conklin Ave in Conklin. Detours were in the process of being made, while traffic backed itself up.

Police ensured that driving should be back up and normal by Sunday, but until then, driving should be kept to a minimal. Only necessary driving and emergencies are to be taken into consideration. And when driving, Police say that you should be careful and keep an eye on the road at all times.

As for most of the homes that eaten alive by the raging waters, people still have to evacuate to a safe and secure place until the water is complete out.

Thousands of people were left homeless and hurting after theses waters tore a path through their homes. Red Cross helped out by making disaster centers around Upstate New York, and asked for the citizens to help donate time if possible.

However, the Twin Tiers were not alone in flooding. The whole East Coast had seen signs of flooding from the hurricanes. And forecasters say there is more rain on its way.

As for locals, people are coping with the dilemma and say its not the first time and may not be the last.

Commence the WET DOWN

5 MP Firefighters Gather Together To Celebrate New Trucks

July 9, 2005

Imagine hearing the ear stinging sound of the firehouse alarm, scanners going off, throwing on your protective fire wear, racing down the streets and going into burning buildings, or pulling people from dangerous areas just to save their lives. Imagine risking your whole life just to save someone else. Every day, volunteers are serving our community just to serve and protect us. However, both the Five Mile Point and the Kirkwood Fire Company need more volunteers every day.

On July 9, 2005, Five Mile Point firemen gathered at Kirkwood Valley Park for a "Wet Down." This is to welcome in the two new trucks they have just received. (Engine 3 and Tanker 7.)

I personally had the pleasure of meeting with only 12 of the 35 men that volunteer at Five Mile Point. Including: Chief- Steve Fazio serving 2 yrs, First Assistant Chief- Mike Kuruc serving 2 yrs, Lieutenant- Mark Gialanella serving 2 yrs, Captain- Jarrad Maciak serving 4 yrs, Captain- David Abell serving 2yrs, Anthony Kilgallon, Jason Mollo, Mark Dougherty, Michael Retzlaff, Jim Snyder, Jim Potter who has been in the company the longest 28 yrs, and the youngest of the bunch Brett Hunsinger who is only 16 yrs old.

Each station has its own trucks. Ones shown at the "Wet Down" were Brush 1, Engine/Rescue 2, Engine 5, Tower 8, and the Jet Ski. The Tower reaches over 100 ft in the air which is equivalent to 10 stories. I was able to be lifted up in the tower so that I could see what it was like. With the company of Jarrad Maciak, I was lifted 100 ft in the air to catch a glimpse of Binghamton and Kirkwood.

When asked what the most calls were that were received, no one hesitated to say, "MVA. Motor Vehicle Accidents tend to be the most calls we get." Of course I suppose that would be right when Five Mile Point covers I 81, I 17 and the Northern part of Kirkwood.

Of course, these heroes of everyday gave me a little insight to just the limits that they go to make sure that the victims of a fire or an accident are clearly helped.

Upcoming events where you can meet the firefighters are as follows: Friday, August 12th at 7pm and 13th at 6pm at the Kirkwood Town FAIR for a Car Extrication Demo with 'Jaws of Life', Saturday, August 13th at 11am at the Kirkwood Parade and every 2nd Saturday of every summer month at the Kirkwood Fire Company Station 1 for a Chicken BBQ.