A Tribute to Our Fallen Soldiers and their Families

What would you do if your son told you he wanted to fight for our country? What did you do when he told you? James White Senior and his wife Robin supported their son in the Spring of 2006 when he left for his first deployment against Afghanistan, with the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) of the United States Army, in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was killed on August 11, when his platoon came in contact with enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fired during combat operations. Also lost in the attack were Spc. Rogelio R. Garza Jr. and Pfc. Andrew R. Small.

James, Sr & Robin's love and support for their son could not be expressed personally throughout the many years they should have had together, but they wanted to outwardly express their deep, undying love so they decorated their Dodge Magnum in his honor. Everyday, when they go about their routine, they see their son's face and remember his sacrifice for our freedom.

Their determination doesn't stop. James and Robin wanted to give tribute to the other soldiers who gave their lives fighting for our freedom. They knew that if they had to live without James Junior that there were many other families having to endure the same pain and pride simultaneously. They began adding names to their tribute to show everyone they encountered how many soldiers have given their lives and how many families miss them each day. The names on their car only begin to reflect all the lives that have been taken by our military efforts. 

Sometimes I hear people say, "don't forget," but until I saw all these names, I didn't really know the impact...it seems so far away, but thousands of Americans have died and thousands of families have been effected. Am I reminded everyday what our troops are experiencing? Have I made an effort everyday to honor these lives? James, Sr. and Robin raised my awareness. My prayers go out to all the soldiers and to all the families who miss them.

Golling's Arena Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is starting a fund to help our Military-Family customers with their service costs. For each "Like" the Golling's Arena Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Facebook page, www.facebook.com/gogollings, from September 1-September 30, we will give $1.00 to this fund. The raised funds will be available to military families who need extra assistance in maintaining their vehicles. We are glad to serve many military families and want to express our appreciation for their efforts.