A MOM'S LOVE
and a PROUD SON
Await Gunny's safe
return from harm's way.
As U.S. soldiers prepare for a
major assault on Fallujah, their families at home are
praying for their safety. One Sacramento family says a tough
week lies ahead.
American forces on Sunday stormed into western portion of
Fallujah. They seized the main city hospital and secured two
key bridges over the Euphrates river in what appears to be
the first stage of the long-expected assault on the rebel
stronghold.
Sacramento Family Waits to Hear from Marine in
Fallujah
U.S. officials say the toughest fight is yet to come.Within
the next few days American forces will enter the main part
of the city on the east bank of the river.
Sgt. Matthew Gomez, 33, is a
marine in Fallujah. Just a few days ago he left a voice mail
message for his mother to tell her he was unhurt after a car
bomb killed eight marines. "There's a warmth and secure
feeling from hearing that voice," said Gomez' mother Brenda
Baldwin. "But you know that voice is also in jeopardy
Baldwin, is taking care of Gomez' 12-year-old son Michael.
Baldwin watches the news, but Michael avoids it.
"When I see all this stuff, hearing about all these soldiers
dying it brings back memories of my dad being one of them,"
said Michael. "It scares me. I don't want to be able to have
that feeling. I want to be able to feel that he's safe, and
he's been not able, not to be attacked or anything."
Baldwin says her faith and positive thoughts keep her
grounded while her son is in danger.
This is Gomez' second tour in Iraq. He began his current
deployment last August.
Letter sent to our
webmaster from Brenda's son.
I would just like to say thank
you. I have been just scanning through your website and
would like to express my thanks.
You have a new member in your
Marine Moms, and she is my mother, Brenda Baldwin. She has
come across your site and has volunteered already, with
her 1st function coming up.
This organization will help
her through the coming year. The reason for this is, I
will be going back to Iraq in the late summer. She as well
as many other families have given so much to support us.
You see, I am a Single Father raising a 12 yr old son.
During my last deployment to OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom)
she lent out her hand and took care of my son so I could
live up my commitment to the People of America. She put
her life on hold so I could go forth with mine and do my
job. She will be doing this again without reservations so
I can go with my unit back to Iraq and finish what we
started.
The fact that I now know she
has moral support brings a relief to my mind and heart.
Thank you all for what you do, because people like you and
your members make me stand tall. God bless you and all
your members.
Semper Fi,
Gysgt Gomez, Matthew C.
3rd LAR Bn.
29 Palms, CA
This is from the Washington Post last year--- Matthew is the one
with the goggles on his helmet.
Webmaster Note: Brenda Baldwin is one
very special Marine Mom! From day one, her role in Yellow
Ribbon Day support efforts has been truly inspiring to others.
Teaming up with Gail, Sherrie, little Brandon and others, this
team lead the Ribbon Project in both message and results.
The small thumbnail photos on our front page can hardly tell the
story of Brenda's dedication, love for her 12 year old grandson
Michael and that Marine above doing his duty.
with your suggestions or to volunteer.
