A caisson entering Arlington National Cemetery across the Potomac River from Washington, DC
Photo from Arlington National Cemetery website,
Courtesy of Andrew V. McMaster, May 2006

Dear Readers;

This weekend is our Memorial Day holiday when America pauses to honor those that have given their lives in service to their country. The Yelm Community Blog host & Kleiner’s Korner editor/publisher appreciates and honors all of those who have served to defend, protect, and preserve our country from outside invaders. Memorial Day was first called Decoration Day “to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it expanded to include those who died in any war or military action,” quoting Wikipedia.

On this Memorial Day, this writer’s thoughts and prayers are with the families that have had to endure monumental suffering at the hands of American Presidents & Congress by losing sons and daughters in deceptive wars that had little or nothing to do with defending this country and where THEY get swept aside in the “fog of war." These are families like Pat Tillman’s mother, who explained her story for CBS News 60 Minutes May 4, 2008. Mr. Tillman was an NFL football great who was inspired to enlist to serve his country after 9/11 and was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan, with the Pentagon covering-up the truth and using Tillman’s name to fabricate more deceptions.

Locally, I would like to acknowledge the work and commitment of people like Tad Stillwell. Tad owns Yelm's Farmers Insurance Agency and has been away in Iraq in service to his country for almost a year. I will be one of the first to shake Tads' hand and welcome him home later this year.

Photo of Rainier's fallen son, Justin Norton

This writer wishes to remind the Community of the
Justin Norton Scholarship Fund
honoring Rainier, Washington's fallen soldier in Iraq.
About Sgt. Norton

Donations can be mailed to:
Justin Norton Scholarship Fund
c/o Yelm Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 444
Yelm, Wa 98597