A Letter From An Incredible Gold Star Mom
This entry was posted on November 29, 2007 9:51 AM and is filed under the troops.
Below you'll find a letter written by Debbie Argel Bastian, mother of lost hero Derek Argel. If you can, please read and if you agree, support by sending anything you can. Thank you.
Dear Friends...please pass the word,
Todd and I would like to introduce you to a very special project we will be involved with over the next year, and why it is so important to us. As many of you know, my son, Capt. Derek Argel was deployed to heaven on Memorial Day, 2005. He was a commando with AF Special Operations, and aboard a small Iraqi aircraft on a special mission with three other US Commandos, and one Iraqi. Derek's son Logan, was only eight months old. At that time, we were introduced to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.
HISTORY:
Special Operations Warriors are referred to as "The Tip of America's Spear". They are regionally-oriented, language-trained, and culturally-sensitive small units and teams that perform America's most dangerous missions in many countries. Yet, as General Schoomaker, USA (Ret) wrote, "They are a minuscule component of the United States military establishment. Less than three-and-one-half percent of all the men and women who wear this country's uniform, serve in SpecOps." They are called "The Quiet Professionals". They come from the Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines. For most of their careers, they are deployed to any number of places. Many times, they have little notification and no contact with home or family. Their missions are classified.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS WARRIOR FOUNDATION: (SOWF)
The SOWF began in 1980 to provide full college educations for the 17 children who survived their fathers who were killed during the Iranian hostage rescue attempt. They have been in operation now for 27 years, providing immediate support to families of Warriors who were killed on a mission, or injured in a training accident. Within 30 days of notification, families with children are contacted by the SOWF, and a relationship begins. These children are provided counseling throughout their school years in preparation for college. The SOWF covers all college expenses as the government provides only a fraction of what is needed. The foundation provides what these children's fathers would give to them, had they survived. They have earned the highest rating (four stars) on the charity navigator.
OUR RIDE:
Almost five years ago, I took my first motorcycle ride across the United States. It was a journey to the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary. Because I only had two months of experience on a bike, everyone warned me against it. Only my son Derek told me to "go for it." He reminded me that we only go around once, and there was nothing to fear. He called me many times on that ride, and the sound of his voice kept me going. This summer, my husband and I will make the ride again to the Harley 105th Anniversary. The purpose of our trip is much different this time. We will be riding to raise awareness and funds for the children of fallen Special Operations Warriors. Our goal is $105,000. We hope to raise and exceed this amount before we ever leave this summer. All donations go directly to the SOWF, to be used now...when and where it is needed. Todd and I will be speaking to different groups along the way about the foundation. On our way home, we will be speaking to classes at the Air Force Academy, where Derek graduated on Memorial Day, 2001. We will be joined by MJ and Clay Kesterson, and several other Gold Star families.
We ask that you share our message with your friends and family, in hopes that we can get great support for this worthy cause. The link to our fund raising page is below. You can learn more about Derek by visiting the Capt. Derek Argel Memorial web page.
Thank you!
Debbie Argel-Bastian
For the children of our heroes:
www.firstgiving.com/DebbieArgel
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November 29, 2007 12:04 PM
Ryan Jazak wrote:
Joe, as you know I ride a Harley as well and the 105th anniversary is going to be right in my back yard. The foundation that Debbie has started really peeks my interests as you can imagine. I have my hands into a lot of things at the moment, but would be really inspired to help Debbie if she should need any help when the 105th comes around. Please feel free to pass my email address to her.
Ryan Jazak
Proud brother of GySgt Eric Jazak USMC
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