My cousin, Jon, was supposed to go to Iraq in March,  2006.

     Now, his deployment schedule has been moved up to September, 2005.

     Same with my best friend Sue’s brother.

     Bollocks.

     I’ve known Jon since the day he was born.  I fed him bottles, changed his diapers, let him hold my fingers while he took those practice steps and babysat him while his mom taught piano lessons.  They often stayed at our house, and we often stayed at theirs.  He and his brother are more like little brothers to me than cousins.

     It would be some comfort if we knew he just had to get through the usual 18 months…but in all likelihood he’ll be stop-lossed until he has to be carried home…like so many others.

     He and his new fiance’ came down to show me the ring  (It’s a very pretty little ring). And visit, and told me the news.  He’s scared, but like so many in my family, you’d have to know him to see it.  He totally believes in this president, and in this war.

     I’m proud of him for standing up and putting his life on the line for what he believes, and for being willing to serve.

     Just…bollocks.