I've been involved with AS for about a year and a half now and chose BlueStarx2 as my user name because both my sons were serving in the Army.  My oldest just returned in June and many of you told me how appreciative you were for his service and rejoiced with me in his safe homecoming.  In October my youngest son went to Iraq for his second tour leaving behind his wife and two little children.  This morning the two men in green that every wife and mother doesn't want to see at their doorstep came to tell us that our son died this morning in Iraq.  I felt so sorry for the young Captain who spoke with trembling lips who had to deliver this message,  it must be one of the worst jobs.  My husband wasn't home when they arrived and came while they were here and he had to repeat it all again.

My son wasn't signed up as a contact because he said they were doing good where they were and didn't want to take any support away from the guys who were less fortunate...for me to keep sending to the guys in Afghanistan who really needed it.

I have the banner with the two blue stars in my window  but I was wondering if anyone knew if they have ones with one of each.  I've seen just the gold and just the blue.

 Oh Cathi -

  there are no words that I can say that will take away your pain.  My prayers are with you and your family.  Both of your sons are heroes to me.  May God give you comfort.

My heart aches for you and your family. You are in my thoughts and my prayers.  (((hugs)))  Gail

I am so sorry for your loss.  My prayers are with you.

Ann

 Ohhhhh Cathi...I hardly know what to say. I wish I was there to give you a big hug.....I am so so sorry....

Praying for you...

At times like this I wish I were eloquent with words, just please know my heart goes out to your entire family.  You and your husband raised two heroes for sure.  And what compassion you showed in feeling badly for that young Capt bringing you such sad news.  I hope all the happy memories and knowing how many care will bring a measure of comfort to your family.  May God Bless you and bring you peace.   Anita

My heart aches for you. 

Vicki

There are simply no words to express to you the sadness and gratitude I feel for your family in the loss of your hero. I think it's amazing that while you've been dealing with the stress of your own sons' deployments, you've been supporting other soldiers. And the fact that you are expressing concern for the young Captain who had to bring you this terrible news speaks to your deep concern for others. It's easy to see how both of your sons came to serve their country.

In answer to your question about the banner for your window, I tried to do some quick research online and couldn't find an answer. But I did find a website for the American Gold Star Mothers, and I think maybe someone there can help you. There are contact numbers on the main page:

http://www.goldstarmoms.com/index.htm

And there's a page that specifically covers service flags and lapel pins:

http://www.goldstarmoms.com/Resources/ServiceFlags/ServiceFlags.htm

You and your family are in my prayers, and I will say a special prayer for your two little grandchildren.
 

There are no words to express my deep sympathy to you and your family over your loss.  Please know that my thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

I have not seen the banner you are looking for but I know that some people have taken their blue star banner and superimposed the gold star over the blue star.  While I am not the best seamstress, I would readily volunteer to do this for you if you cannot find what you are searching for.  Just email me if you want my help.. 

Kathy

Cathi,

I'm no good with words, and my emotions have been eroded, but I can't hold back tears at just the thought of what you are going through.

My family has somehow survived the vast distance between the pride we have for our two warriors and the terror of knowing what may happen to them.  Our son is now out, safe and sound as a college student.  His 8 years of constant combat experience was more than enough for anyone.  Our daughter is still in the fight, recently returning from Iraq but wanting to return.

 The worst thing that can happen to a parent is to lose a child.  I lost my oldest daughter a few years ago, and it still stings like hell.  Her death was absolutely senseless, a complete waste.

But, if and when God does call those we call our own, I salute them with pride knowing that they, as so few yet so many, have served a purpose and died giving us what is most precious; our freedom.

God bless you, and your son, and we all thank him for giving us his all.  Cathi, I hope that eventually your pride will overcome your pain.  You have every reason to be proud.  We are.

I am so saddened and sorry for your loss. Please know that the loss and grief is shared by many- many like me who do not know you  personally. I wish I could say something better, but know that we have you in our hearts and prayers.

May you find some comfort in knowing he lived a good life and was loved- may you find some comfort with your memories. My very deepest sympathies-

Sheila

We have no answer to your question, but want to relay how our hearts are breaking for the great loss to your family.  We especially are heartbroken that your precious grandchildren have lost their dad.  While you had your son for years, they had him for such a short time.  We wish your family peace.

Gran

My heart and prayers are with you and your family right now. Please know that the sacrifice that your son,his family and you have made will not be forgotten.Hugs of comfort for you.

Jenn

i wanted to add my condolences to you and your family. i am so sorry for your loss.  my thoughts and prayers go out to you.

I wish I had something comforting to say to you. The tears are streaming down my face. I wish I could provide a hug. But I wanted to let you know that I will be thinking of you and praying for your family.

 Dorothy