I was so excited and so moved to finally get my first return letter from PFC Pablo M., Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion of the 327th infantry of the 101st (Air Assault) that I wanted to share it. As you know, the City of Malibu has adopted 125 men of the 2nd Battalion. Great idea, Malibu! The guys call themselves “Gators, No Slack.” Pablo’s letter was dated March 20, just 11 days ago. I wrote my first letter to him early in March. He wrote:
” … thank you for writing me, it really does make a difference when I receive a letter supporting me. I already received two letters from you, but finally today, I sit down to write back (too much training). While writing this letter the war already has started.
… a little bit about me. I am originally from the small Island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean. I am 24 years old, born the 29th of August 1978. I joined the Army in 2001 after 9/11. I live in Ft. Campbell, Ky. with my beautiful wife, Melinda. She is 21 years old. I have been with her all of my life. We were raised in the same neighborhood; we used to play together. We got married in 1997. We got our first son in January 14, 1998 and recently we had our second child in August 28, 2000, a day before my birthday.
Also, you ask me a question about what I do in the Army. Well, I am an infantryman, but my job over here is different. Because I got picked to be a door gunner in a helicopter, because I am a good shooter. Also, I like to say that you have a beautiful family and I look forward for more letters from you.
Sincerely, Pablo M., soldier from the 101st Air Assault Div.”
I am praying each day for the speedy and safe return of Pablo and other young people stationed in harm’s way and for the safety of innocent noncombatants. Perhaps, if we work together with open hearts and loving concern, we will be able to heal our divisions at home and abroad. I pray for the healing of polarization. I pray for continued strength. And I pray for the wisdom to find ways to ultimately achieve peace within and global harmony of purpose without.
Mona Loo
Editors note: Those who would like to be a part of the letter writing campaign can contact Leslie Schwarze at 456.3739.