Tragedy at Fort Hood

Driving home this evening I was listening to my favorite radio station. The DJ commented that they were keeping a close watch on the situation at Fort Hood, TX.

I had no idea what was going on, but it definitely got my attention.

If you have not heard yet, please read here!

My cousin, who I have always considered more like my brother (we are only a month apart in age), is stationed at Fort Hood. He is now deployed to Iraq, but his wife and two of his kids are living on the base. I became a bit shaky thinking about what was going on at the base. There was not a large amount of information on the radio at the time. The only thing that was running through my head is "ARE THEY OKAY?"

I called my Aunt S to ask if she had heard what was going on in TX. She let me know that she had talked with my cousin's wife. D (my cousin's wife) told my Aunt S that she was okay, but they are still on lockdown on the base. She also said that her daughters were at home at the time of the shooting and lockdown. Everyone there in my family is safe.

My cousin was notified, and he was allowed to call from Iraq to make sure everyone was okay. He was obviously shaken, but thankful for their safety.

I was able to quit shaking, but now I find myself glued to CNN watching this story over and over and over!

This is just a horrible tragedy at Fort Hood. My thoughts and prayers go out to all families affected by this shooting.

As my own personal tribute to my cousin and the thousands of remarkable men and women serving in our Armed Forces, I offer the following video. Thank you for all that each and every one of you do to protect our country and our world. You inspire me in ways you may never know. 

And to my cousin/brother...be safe and come home soon. We all miss you!