(re-post from Wednesday, August 6, 2008)

Well, Sgt Stecker is on his way home sort of. We know that he was in a remote location and is now back at a main camp with the rest of the unit he was deployed with as an augmentee.

He is still several weeks away from the good ol’US of A and some of mom’s home cooking but the journey has begun.

We spoke with him yesterday and he sounded really tired. He had been up the better part of the last 24-30 hours and was wrapping up some things to be able to get some rest.

Like so many of the soldiers we hear from in Iraq, Court says that the press is reporting what they want Americans to hear based on their political bias. He has repeatedly told us that the US is making a difference that will be felt for years to come.

I know that this is redundant for many but let’s keep praying for our incredible men and women serving our nation around the world and at home. They are some pretty amazing people. As a nation should be so very proud of all of them.

For many who are unsure just how to pray for our soldiers, I want to suggest that you look at Psalm 91. It is called the Soldiers’ Psalm. It has been reported through the years that the soldiers of the 91st Brigade recited this Psalm each day in WWI. The brigade was involved in three of the bloodiest battles of the war and while other units suffered up to 90% casualties, the 91st did not have a single combat related death. I am thinking that prayer still works.