Hello All,

As we approach the Memorial Day weekend, I would like to tell you about a Soldier who never made it home, CPL Ciara Durkin. I never knew CPL Durkin but as a National Guard Finance Soldier, I still consider her one of mine. She died September 29, 2007, in the middle of Bagram Air Force Base, one of the biggest military bases in Afghanistan. She was in a secure area of the base when she was shot once in the head.

Ciara had recently mentioned having some issues in her unit, and noted that it was making enemies. A short while later, she was found dead near a church, in the middle of the post, in the middle of the night–dead from a 9mm round to the head. In the months following, the Army ruled it a suicide, something her family strongly disagrees with. Ciara was buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery. Every Memorial Day, for the past 16 years, I have thought about CPL Durkin, I hope this year you will join me in keeping her, and her loved ones, in your prayers.

I encourage you to remember the reason for this holiday. I'd like you to also consider and think about the families of those killed while in service to their country. 

Survivors may not see their benefits this month due to the political battle over the debt ceiling. Should those who have given up so much need to worry about whether they will receive the money they count on every month?

America needs to keep its word to its citizens, its veterans, and its elderly. Anyone attempting to break that word has no concept of honor or personal sacrifice, and they are certainly not a patriot. 

Thanks for your time,
Travis “Bull” Johnson