To DHart and your family -
I just happened to see this thread for the first time late last night - I had decided to check my favorite forum just before going to bed.
Needless to say, I had a hard time sleeping thinking about your loss. I too have a son and I don't know how I would take it if I were to lose him.
I am also a veteran myself. But, thankfully, I never had to lose any buddies due to enemy action. So I know that I simply cannot understand the depth of your grief.
But last night as I lay awake thinking about this I decided to look at the most positive side of your son's death: He died doing what he felt was the best way that he could help his country that he loved! He IS a true HERO!
And, furthermore, YOU, your WIFE, Elijah's WIFE, and his DAUGHTER are all American heros too in every sense. It is all of YOU that have the task to live on feeling the great sacrifice that you have made to your country.
I believe, as your wife does, that you will all see Elijah again on that far shore that we only reach when God calls us. He will be there to meet and greet you with the great joy that you all are together again!
Until that wonderful day comes, please have faith and draw strength knowing that your son is now under God's loving care, and that he is in a much better place than he was!
Sincerely,
Ron