A Hero
Tim and I found ourselves incredibly moved on Thursday evening when we attended a musical performance by the second grade at Briggs’ school. It was entitled, A is for America based on the book written by Lynne Cheney. The theme seemed perfectly planned given Tim’s recent arrival home which included fifteen patriotic songs, dances, and speaking parts. It appeared as if nearly every child had a special standout moment. To say that we were impressed was an understatement.
At one point I whispered to Tim, “Weren’t we just dirty dancing at The Chug (one of our favorites holes at Ball State)? How did we get here?” His reply short and simple, “This is what the dirty dancing got us.”
During the performance, one boy we are particularly fond of took the mic. Noah read from the heart the following excerpt he wrote about Tim. It brought us to tears.
“When I think about a hero, I think about my neighbor, Commander Stoner.
Commander Stoner is my hero because he served our country in Iraq. He flew Blackhawk helicopters to get wounded soldiers. He brought his troops home safe and sound.
He is a good father and takes care of his children.
He is a kind man. Whenever he sees me he gives me a hug and says, “Hey buddy, what’s up?”
Welcome Home Commander Stoner”
Throughout the hour we gazed on our oldest son singing songs we had no idea he knew, swaying back and forth (exactly like us…completely unable to stand still), digging in his nose on several occasions (we were cringing), and at times trying to hide back his enormous smile as if he was embarrassed. I hadn’t noticed his dimples in a long time. It is funny the little things you overlook about someone you see everyday until you really sit back and watch them.
i LOVE this blog….
Jessica Strickland - May 13th, 2008 at 11:20 pmTiffany,
Cybil and I are so happy for the safe return of “Commander Stoner”!!!!
The story above brought tears to my eyes as well.
Commander Stoner, as well as all the other Heros serving, are always in our thoughts and prayers. Our minds cannot even come close to conceiving what your family has had to endure over the past year.
We want to pass on our sincere thanks to not only Commander Stoner….but the entire “Stoner Six”…for your sacrifice and service to our country.
You have ALL made us PROUD!
Brandon New - May 14th, 2008 at 12:30 pmHi there! I found your blog via this person and via that person but I love it! Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on your husband being home! Your pictures are amazing and your situation humbles me. Thanks for what you have sacrificied for your family and mine! Check out our family sometime if you get the chance at http://www.xanga.com/tonijill
Always, Toni Jill
Toni Jill - May 14th, 2008 at 7:23 pmHi there! I found your blog via this person and via that person and I wanted to let you know that I am totally inspired by your story. Thanks so much for sharing your life and congratulations on the homecoming! Check out our crazy family if you have time at http://www.xanga.com/tonijill
Thanks again, Toni Jill
Toni Jill - May 14th, 2008 at 7:34 pm