As I have been on JU, I have had the privilege and honor of reading the blogs of JU's military wives. I won't begin in naming them, out of fear of omitting some and causing them to feel left out, but you know who you are. I want to say first and foremost, thank you.

In the time you have taken to blog on JU, I have seen your hurts and frustration, hopes and fears, and feel that I have gotten to know you personally, as you are prone to express thoughts on here that you might not otherwise express. This has meant much.

It has taken this war beyond the headlines and brought it home to many of us civilians in a way we could not otherwise have known. To see that the war extends far beyond the front, and back here to the US in the way it affects the wives and children left behind makes it personal, makes it meaningful, and has caused me, at least, to mix some of my gut feelings with reason and sensitivity to the families involved.

Most of all, you are the glue that holds our fighting forces together. They need you, and doubtlessly think of you daily.

I cannot begin to express my thanks. While I may have personal feelings about this war, know that those personal feelings do NOT extend to you and yours, who are only doing your duty in serving your country.

God bless you all

Respectfully submitted,

Gideon MacLeish