Revisiting a Florissant Friend

I first wrote an article similar to the series you'll read about Staff Sgt. James Donnelly back in 2006, when I was a staff writer at the North County Journal.

I was never quite satisfied with that effort, and I always wanted to revisit this article. When I came across my notes, photos and documents in my files, I thought it was time to do just that.

It seemed as though the was a good time for this for several reasons. It’s midway between the anniversary of the time Donnelly wrote the letter to his father and the mission on Aug. 5, 1969.

This may seem more like a Memorial Day or Veterans Day article. But after all, the Fourth is a celebration of our freedom, our country’s birthday and the Declaration of Independence.

But even in the midst of the celebration, we should take some time to acknowledge the extreme sacrifices made by those in our armed forces. Regardless of our view of the war at the time, their service ensures that we continue to have those freedoms. That is as true for those now serving in Iraq and Afghanistan as it was for those who served in Vietnam.

Those sacrifices don’t end when soldiers die. The sacrifices live on with their family members, loved ones, friends and those they fought alongside.

The empty spot they leave lingers on long after they’re gone through an empty chair or a marriage not realized.

So, I hope that you all enjoy this series, and have a Happy Independence Day.