The Hibbards: Independence Day!

As I reflect over the past 11 years, I have grown to understand more what Independence Day really means. To many it is a day of get togethers with family and friends watching fireworks and time off from work, but to me it has come to mean so much more. To me it is a day to give thanks for the freedoms that I take advantage of every single day, to be thankful that I am at home in a nice comfy bed with my family, and a day that I think of every soldier, seamen, airmen, and marine that is serving our country fighting for those freedoms that I enjoy. This 4th of July has weighed heavy on my heart and mind for two different reasons. One reason is that my brother, Kyle (SSG Peterson) is currently in Iraq serving in harms way and the other reason is that a dear friend to my brother was KIA on 29 June 09. This is particularly hard for me due to the loss of a fellow soldier, but also because now his family will be without a husband and father. I have rationalized the loss of this soldier and the reasoning behind Kyle having to go over there since I have once to served, but what is so hard is that I don't understand why God has chosen to take the lives of these soldiers to leave loved ones in so much pain. I can't wait to ask Him. I understand that every individual that joins the military signs his/her name to the dotted line with the understanding that someday they will be expected to give their life for the freedoms that are enjoyed by all....been there done that. With all of this being said, please pray for the soldiers that are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and that they all will have a safe return home. As Kyle prepares for his leave, please keep him in your prayers that leave goes well and that his return to Iraq is safe and his return home even safer. I love you, Kyle.