Finally! A sigh of relief.

[oldschool1982]

I know we most don't normally post things like this but since some of ya'll are my extended family and.... I just was so happy I had to share!

My cousin, Lt. Col Charles Martino just arrived in Atlanta (actually at his parents home) from a years tour in Baghdad. We're all proud of him in his work, service and recent promotion to Deputy Chief of Staff for the recent assignment but it's great to have him back in the states atleast for now. It's rumored that the folks that were/are in this (his) assignment will rotate back in a year to keep the current progress they are making moving forward but I know that his wife and kids are certainly looking forward to his return after debriefing. We're not sure when he is scheduled to arrive back here in the area but we are sure it will be before the Holiday this month. Probably around 12 days. This will certainly be a very special Thankgiving for us here.

I am aware there has been loss with-in the CT family over the last 4 years and wish that things had not been so. But it's so very nice to share something this positive with ya'll. It's our sincere hope that the remaining troops remain as safe as possible so they may also return soon and provide their families the same happiness.

[allie]

I'm so happy for your family! I can only imagine the excitement in welcoming your cousin back home.

Be sure to tell him thanks for his service!

[Mezzaluna]

Congratulations to your cousin on his safe return! Let's hope more do safely, and soon.

[foodnfoto]

I'm sure everyone here shares in your happiness that your cousin is home safe and sound.
I'm glad those in your family will be sharing a very happy Thanksgiving with him home and that his wife and kids will get to hold him close throughout the holidays and then on.
Best wishes to all.

[chrose]

I go along with everybodys sentiments. Politics aside thank him for me for his bravery and his service. Glad he's well.

[oldschool1982]

Thanks gang. I know most don't make a big deal about cousins and all, it's an Italian thing.

Anyhow I have to say the family has been blessed more than once or twice with a safe return. My Uncle (blood uncle and his father) was stationed at the American Embassy in Viet Nam during the 1968 Tet Offensive plus this is his second tour in Iraq. The first was in 1991 during Desert storm when he was with the 101st Airborne.

[phoebe]

Originally Posted by oldschool1982

Anyhow I have to say the family has been blessed more than once or twice with a safe return. My Uncle (blood uncle and his father) was stationed at the American Embassy in Viet Nam during the 1968 Tet Offensive plus this is his second tour in Iraq. The first was in 1991 during Desert storm when he was with the 101st Airborne.

Wow! You oldschoolers have been blessed! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. And all the best to your cousin and his wife and kids. They more than deserve this time together.