Down South

Yesterday we left for a family wedding in Memphis.  The trip down I-57 reminded me of the many times the boys and I drove to Mississippi every summer to visit with family. Most of the time it was just the boys and me.  Believe me traveling with three young boys by yourself can be quite a challenge.


On this journey we cross the Mississippi River twice. Once at Cairo, Illinois where the Mississippi River meets the Ohio River. Then again at Memphis.  As we traveled south of Cairo, the cotton fields were rich with bolls and ready for harvest.  Fall is a great time of the year in the South. While it is still humid, the temperatures have dropped to the 70's.







As a young girl, I occasionally worked in the cotton fields. My grandfather would drive the cotton picker while my uncle and I walked behind to pick any missed bolls. At the end of the day my grandmother would have a home cooked meal ready for us to share.  After dinner we would sit in the swing on the front porch, listen to the crickets and frogs as we gazed on the starry sky.  It was a special time that I will always cherish. When the boys and I came on our summer visits, I would drive out to the country so I could show them where I spent some of my childhood. I regret that they were not able to experience the country life in their childhood.




As I've mentioned before, Keefe is in Helmand Province.  Poppies are the  major corp for Helmand.  Although the poppies grown are used to produce opium, the blooming fields are a magnificent site to behold.











Another wondrous site that Keefe will experience is the brilliant starry sky of Afghanistan.  I am sure these pictures don't even compare to this magnificent sky in person.  However when I look at the stars in the night, my imagination runs wild with thoughts of how marvelous and awe inspiring God's universe is.  I pray that God will bless our troops, bring them home safe and help them to accomplish their hearts and minds mission.

Semper Fi!

The Marine has Landed!

Autumn arrived this weekend with nice brisk temps.  The leaves will be turning very soon.  As I sit here at my desk, I can't help but think about a time not to long ago when September signaled a frenzied level of activity in the Murtaugh house.  Liam, Rory and Keefe kept the schedule full from morning to night.  This time of year I miss those days but I certainly don't miss the exhaustion. LOL!

I received two (2) wonderful surprises this weekend.

At lunchtime on Friday, Keefe called to check in. The battalion has reached it's final destination in Afghanistan.   He sounds rested and adjusted to the new timezone.  We chatted for about twenty (20) minutes. And of course when we said our good-byes...I cried. So what's new.....I'm a crier. 

Sunday after mass, a parishioner, who's son just shipped off to USMC Boot Camp, handed me a loaf of chocolate chip banana nut bread.  Her daughter, Callie, was thinking about Keefe and family so decided to bake a treat for us.  When I got home, I cooked a little bacon, made scrambled eggs with jalapenos (both from our local CSA) and cheese, grapefruit and chocolate chip banana nut bread.   Delicious!!!   Thank you Callie!

This week on NBC Nightly News, Lester Holt, will be reporting from Kabul.  Tonight he will be interviewing General John Allen, USMC.  General Allen is a 1978 graduate of the Naval Academy. 

When Keefe was a USNA Plebe, General Allen was the Commandant of the Marines.  Every November Marine's celebrate their birthday with a Marine Ball.  The Naval Academy host a Marine Ball for the Marine's in the area.    Keefe had volunteered to help out the evening of the event.   He was standing with some Firstie's at the hospitality area, when they were approached by the ranking Marine Officer at USNA.  The Officer turned to the Firsties saying "Who has been assigned as Gen. Allen's escort this evening?"    The Firstie's responded "We forgot".  The Officer turned to Keefe and said I guess this is your lucky night!  General Allen will probably not remember this particular evening.  However it will be a memory that Keefe will always remember about attending his first Marine Ball.

Semper Fi!

Wearing Red "Until They All Come Home"

Picture on Left:  The Basic School @ Quantico, VA/Graduation 2010.       Picture on Right: Some of the Murtaugh Family proudly wearing red at Keefe's Pre-Deployment Party on Friday, September 7, 2012.

The Murtaugh Family is wearing Red Shirts or Red on Fridays to honor our Men and Women in Uniform Until They All Come Home.  Please join us as we support Keefe and his Battalion during their deployment.

I found this poem the other day and it seemed a fitting poem to go with today's post.

A Poem by a Marine Parent (Ed from Clinton, MA)
There's a bond across our nation, that often goes unseen
It's a pride in our sons and daughters, and the United States Marines
For we know they've been tested and trained to be the best
It's their loyalty and honor that places them above the rest

Our lives aren't always easy, there are often sleepless nights
But we're strengthened by knowing others are sharing in our plight
We recall our Marines as children,and marvel at whom they've become
Models of pride and integrity, joined together as one

Marine loyalty is shared by us, as we pray for the safety of all
Its a daily vigil in a violent world, but our faith keeps us walking tall
No longer are headlines taken lightly, that tale of foreign wars
For we know the first ones in and the last ones out are United States Marine Corps

As parents we grieve with those families, whose Marines have paid a price
Together we share in their pain and pride, and honor their sacrifice
Though we may not be acquainted, our bond is true and strong
As Marine parents we stand together, knowing that we belong

So lets raise a glass to "Semper Fi" and all our proud Marines
And take a moment to ponder what liberty and freedom mean
as the few, the proud, the parents, we've shared our pride and joys
And even though they're proud Marines, they are still our girls and boys.

Semper Fi!!

Where's Waldo or Where in the World is Keefe Murtaugh

When Keefe was at USNA, the parents had a saying "Where's Waldo?" when referring to the online pictures of USNA activities.  It is very difficult to find your Mid in the sea of all the Mids in uniform.




  Well now I find myself saying "Where in the World is Keefe Murtaugh?"  Since the beginning of Plebe Year, he has traveled to Ireland, Argentina, Chile, Australia, the Philippines, Okinawa, Kyrgyzstan, and Afghanistan.  Not to mention many, many places in the USA.

He's lived in the mountains in the middle of winter for several weeks, climbed rocks at Joshua Tree National Park, survived several extended stays in the deserts, etc.




Military life does provide adventure and travel but sometimes it's not so easy.  Such as traveling to a war zone in a far away land and very different way of life.

SEMPER FI

One of the values that Barry and I tired to instill in the boys was tolerance and acceptance of all people....no matter color, culture, nationality, gender, religious beliefs, opinions! 

My prayer today is that the value of tolerance and acceptance of all people will prevail for all the world.  That this value along with compassion, courage and understanding will be with Keefe and his unit today and every day of this mission.     Semper Fi!

Generosity of God and Community

Well it's another beautiful morning here in Barrington, Illinois and Keefe's day is almost over.  Yesterday, I chatted with him briefly on FB and he has not adjusted to the time change. He's got his days and nights all mixed up. He's a Marine..he'll figure it out eventually. ;)

While attending mass yesterday I began to think about the past three weeks.  Barry and I, along with Keefe, planned his short two week leave around fun and connecting with family and friends.  

Keefe's Gimmie (88 yr old grandmother) came for a brief visit, then Keefe headed off to Dublin to attend the Loyola Academy/Dallas Jesuit Football Game and the Navy/Notre Dame Football Game.   His brother, Liam, who lives in London met him in Dublin for a long weekend.  The trip was a success in regards to excellent pub crawling but not so great of an outcome for either game.   The bonus was getting to visit with his brother who he hadn't seen in 2 years. 





In addition, Keefe's flight to Dublin was loaded with a lot of LA Rambler fans including his HS Biology teacher, Fr. Peter Breslin, SJ.   It was a great flight catching up on ole times and raising a few glasses.

When Keefe returned there was plenty to do in order for him to leave with his affairs in order including power of attorney documents, instructions about his home, exchange of phone numbers/contacts, and making sure all was in order so he could vote in November.

Barry and I hosted a pre-deployment party that many life long friends and family attended.  It was great seeing some of Keefe's high school friends as well as Barrington area kids that he had grown up with.   The event was even more special because of a few surprise guest: 

Barry's Sister, Lyndia, and Brother-in-Law, Dick
Barry's Niece/Keefe's Godmother, Shea; along with her 3 year old son, Gavin and 4 week old daughter, Molly (yes 4 weeks old) 
Courtney's dear college friend, Gary Fordham, who happened to be in town as well. :)

 Tim Janowick, LA connection for my boys, brought along his trusty bagpipe and played a few patriotic songs for the crowd.  It was a great treat and enjoyed by all.  Thank you Tim!!

That same weekend Keefe, Barry and I attended 5:15pm mass.  Fr. Jack Dewes was the presider.  Jack has been part of our family gatherings for 20 plus years.  The boys love him as if he was a great uncle.  I had spoken to Jack over the summer about a blessing for Keefe before deployment.  Well I thought it would be a simple private blessing but in true Jack style, after communion, he asked Keefe to come forward for a community blessing.  It was wonderful and fitting as this is the church community that Keefe had been baptized and received his early religious formation.  Of course there was not a dry eye in the place. 

Most everyone is aware of the need for letters and care packages to show support to deployed soldiers.  Yesterday, two church friends (one a Marine Mom and one of my choir friends) informed me that two area organizations, that regularly send care packages to the troops, would be sending care packages to Keefe's unit. One package is more general in nature. The other is a monthly shipment of cigars.  Keefe will be especially happy to see those cigars on a regular basis.  It was one of the items he specifically ask for.  Thank you both for your kindness, generosity and support.

Well that's enough rambling for the day.  Hugs and Kisses to all of you.  May God bless each and everyone of you with his/her generosity.

Semper Fi!!!

Family Photo 20010: Keefe, Barry, Courtney, Rory and Liam



Photo below: Barry' Sons -- Sean, Keefe and Rory (Chris and Liam not pictured)

Keefe's Address

The troops love to get mail and care packages.    Emails can be sent via  MotoMail.  Thanks everyone for caring and supporting Keefe and us in this new adventure.  I'm attaching a list of restrictions and suggested items for the troops.   I ask him for a list of things that the troops can and like to receive while they are deployed.   They do have a Commissary but it's mobile so they are never sure when it will arrive.  I've included a list of items and instructions about where and what can be sent.


1) Letters are at the top of the list.  (actually email is best)   The Military calls it MOTOMAIL.   Here's how you send it.

Go to this link and set up an account then you can send email letters--WWW.MOTOMAIL.US

MOTOMAIL DEFINED
 • Free USMC system
 • Delivers sealed letters
 • Submitted via anywhere
 • via the Internet
 • Printed at USMC Post
 • Offices in Afghanistan
 • Usually delivered within
 • 24 hours or less
 • Delivery time depends on
 • unit location
 • NO enclosures allowed
 • Embedded photos OK
 • Does not rate forwarding service


2) Care packages can be shipped in Flat Rate Boxes (Only USPS delivers to combat zone).   US Shipping rates apply.

 Mailing Address:
1stLt Murtaugh, Michael K
2d Bn, 7th Mar (Golf Co, 4th Plt)
Unit 41540
FPO AP 96427-1540

 • Packing Precautions
 Recommend NYLON FILAMENT FIBER TAPE OR MAILING TAPE. Masking and
scotch tape are NOT AUTHORIZED. Do not wrap with string.
 Place LIQUID items such as salsa, hygiene items and beverages in separate zip lock
bags. NO liquids that can explode e.g. carbonated drinks.
 Always use the SMALLEST box possible that conforms to the contents.
 Ensure the weight of the items in the box is evenly distributed.
 Always use DURABLE boxes.
 Add packing material inside portions of the box that sag / easily depressed.
 Package items TIGHTLY to avoid shifting.
 Place mailing address inside the parcel on a separate piece of paper.
Never send BULKY items in an envelope
(i.e., Keys, Dog Tags, Rings, and Cassette Tapes).
 Include the RETURN and ADDRESSEES’ ADDRESS inside the parcel.
 Place the address on only one side of the article being mailed.
 Use INSURANCE on packages that contain valuable items going to and from the
U.S. and deployment site.
All mail weighing OVER 16 OUNCES must be presented to a post office for mailing
 All parcels must bear a customs form
 To assist customs and prevent damage to your package, include Lock Combination
or Keys when mailing sea-bags, or foot lockers
 Custom forms must be filled out in DETAIL


 • Mailing Restrictions

 OBSCENE MATERIAL (pictures, magazines, nude or semi-nude)
 PORK and PORK BY-PRODUCTS
 LARGE QUANTITIES of material contrary to the Islamic belief. Quantities for
personal use are permissible
 No Alcohol
 For additional restrictions, contact your local military post office.
 EXPRESS MAIL not authorized.
 If accidentally accepted at post office, request refund for overpayment

 • Mailing Supplies

FREE POSTAL MAILING SUPPLIES
SENT TO YOUR HOME (ASK FOR MILITARY
PACKAGE) WWW.USPS.COM 1-800-610-8734
10 Priority Boxes
10 Mailing labels
10 US Customs Forms
1 Roll of Bubble Wrap
1 Roll of Tape




ITEMS TO CONSIDER IN CARE PACKAGES:

Cookies and candy  (this is good to share with his platoon about (25 men) He mentioned Aunt Lyndia's fudge would be great to receive.)
Bundt Cake  (Nancy he requested a Bump Cake for Christmas ;))
Beef Jerky (especially if made in Texas) 
Baby Wipes
AA/AAA Batteries for electronics
Power/Health Food  Bars
3 oz bottles of MiO flavoring for water (Kraft)
Dip (Copenhagen  - Wintergreen)
Chew (Levi Garrett)
Cigars
Kindle Cards (He has a Kindle reader)
Athlete Foot Spray or powder  (medicated)
Deodorant
Mole Skins
Sunglass straps
Quattro Razors Refills 


The most important thing you can do is to keep all of them in your prayers.   I will do my best to keep you posted on Keefe's activities but that will all depend on how much he sends me updates. ;)

Thoughts and a Poem

It's a beautiful Sunday morning.  As I drink my Morning Joe and surf the net for the latest news, I am anxious because of the unrest in the world.   Keefe and I chatted online over the weekend so I know that they are in the last part of their journey.  They will be arriving soon if not already in Afghanistan.  Due to security I don't know where they are headed specifically but know they will be in Helmund Province.  Before Keefe departed Twentynine Palms I sent him a Mom letter in which I included the following poem.   I am very proud of my son and what he has accomplished the past 25 years.   Semper Fi! 

A Poem for Encouragement

When the path you have chosen is frightening,
Please know that you’re never alone.
I’ll do my best to ease your way,
Whether you’re near, or far from home.

When your pack becomes too heavy,
I can help you carry the load.
The faith I have in your strength,
Has a depth as yet untold.

When your feet and legs are aching,
Your training will see you through.
When your arms are weak and sore,
Remember endurance is part of you.

If you start to question your value,
Look deep inside your heart.
Your worth of character is obvious,
It’s been there from the start.

Your love of home and family,
And the responsibilities you take on,
Reveal the integrity of the man you are.
I am proud you are my son.
 
WestPlainsMom (Jan) on September 5, 2012

My Deployment Experience as a Military Mom

 Keefe is a member of the 2 7 Marines out of Twentynine Palms, CA.

CBS aired a piece about the mission that the 2 7 Marines have in Afghanistan.   See the link below:


http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505263_162-57512888/drawdown-deployment-we-close-this-chapter-so-our-sons-dont-have-to-finish-the-war/?tag=hdr%3Bcnav



Keep those prayers coming especially in light of the current unrest.