Debra Johnson |
Debra Johnson’s son, 21-year-old Marine Cpl. Nathan Johnson, deployed Dec. 1 from San Diego with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, now somewhere in the Arabian Sea. Debra’s husband, Bruce, plays in a swing band that specializes in World War II-era tunes and dresses in period uniforms. Debra soon will portray “Rosie the Riveter” as part of the band’s performances.
Dear Nathan,
When you were a newborn, we traveled into town to get supplies for the building of our home. I remember the clerk that helped us, a tall, stout, older gentleman. I will never forget the blue blanket you were wrapped in, and the clerk commenting on how cute you were. I explained to him that many boys were born that January of 1981. He replied, “Must mean war.” As a mother, I did not want to hear a remark like that.
You grew up and joined the Marines. We were proud of you at your graduation from boot camp. Our lives kept us busy. Then on Sept. 11, our lives changed forever. I left a message on your machine, “We love you and are proud of you.” You called back, and told me you were ready to go. I had two different feelings — that of a citizen, knowing that we have fine young men and women protecting our freedom, and then the feeling only a mother can feel, the love for a child. Remember the blanket story. God wrapped his protection around you then and will continue to use that blanket of protection for strength and comfort. We are pleased with you, son, and proud of the protection you are giving to our country, wherever this war takes you.
Love,
Mom
|
