I want to share some thoughts with you and hopefully you can get them to all our friends up there. Michael and in fact our entire family has looked at the Web site. I must say some of it is hard to read.

Our time we spent with you in Lake County was fantastic. But I want to clear up some misconceptions that I read in the feedback section of the Web site. I know this won't be news to you but I have to say it.

Most people were not there when Michael visited the school. But some people have lots of comments on something they did not witness. So I hope I can clear it up for them.

What happened was a fine young American, who has to be away from his family for 450 days, had 15 days of R&R. He chose to spend two of those precious days with you in Lake County. What he did was come and visit with a class of third grade students to thank them for their cards, letters, packages and prayers of support. He wanted to tell them about staying in school and how much all people overseas appreciate the love and support they feel though the letters, etc. they receive.

That's all. Simple, huh?

Some people must learn to separate the war from the fine young Americans who answer the call to duty. We all have opinions on the war, the right place to express your opinions is the voting box, with your Congressmen, Congresswomen, your Senators, etc. Whatever your beliefs, we should support our men and women in uniform. They deserve that, don't they?

Michael looks back fondly about the time there, and the children. He loved it. And we remember your love and support and to this day it still brings tears to my eyes when I think about how you treated my son. You made me feel very proud.

I hope to get back to your town soon and I will keep you up to date on Michael.

Today is a hard day for me; it's my birthday, and also the last day my son will be with us for nine months. The last day I can put my arm around him and hug him for at least nine months. Tomorrow at 6 a.m. he leaves for Iraq again. This time is harder then the last time. But he goes to defend freedom and to insure we have the right to send our thoughts to forums and express our views. I hope no one forgets about that.

Again, thank everyone. I will let you send this to whomever you want. Thank the kids again, Michael talks about them everyday. He feels their love and support and truly appreciates it.

 

 

David Walters

Proud father of a United States Soldier

David Walters is the father of Sgt. Michael Walters, who recently visited local schoolchildren who have written him during his service in Iraq. This letter was written April 28. Michael Walters returned to Iraq on April 29.

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