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Greetings,

I'm new here, but not new to loving someone who serves. Both of my sons have gone to Iraq. It's come to my attention (not for the first time, yet it has come first hand as well) that there are a great many people who have no war time etiquette.

I'm not talking about our troops, the enemy, or the families of those who serve. I'm talking about that village (non-service related America) and the idiot they are missing (most people who don't have a clue). I'm talking about that person who rushes over to you each day when you get to work, corners you, and says, "Have you heard from your husband?" or "How's your son doing?" or "A friend of mine told me a friend of his saw a buddy of his die in Iraq, and let me tell you....(usually something absolutely horrific)." That person. Do you know who I'm talking about?

Or how about that person who backs you into a wall and says, "What's your problem? How come you're always coming across so uptight? Have I done something to you?" And then there's that person who has to kick you while your down, gets you fired or reprimanded, or something else. Do you know who and what I'm talking about?

Well, I've heard a few stories from mothers, wives, and other family members who have been to hell and back because of people who seem to have no common sense or they are just plain old mean spirited. I would like to put together an article to publish where I can on the subject of War Time Etiquette.

I'm writing to ask for your stories, experiences or most hated pet peeve regarding this subject. Additionally, if you have the perfect solution to counter your particular pet peeve, I would like to read that too.

For example: Village Idiot says, "How's your husband? Have you heard from him yet? I heard on the news......" I would like to hear how that kind of approach makes you feel. And then, I'd like to hear what you'd prefer this person to do or say. As an example: Village Idiot says, "Wow, you look exhausted. Is there something I can do for you? Maybe I could mow the lawn, fix a door, babysit the kids....." You get the idea?

I'm very much into educating those who have never experienced what we go through every day. I don't have a problem with people showing their support with bumper stickers and flying flags or asking questions, but, I think it would be nice if people made an honest effort to really be supportive through thier actions, not just displaying how they feel on the rear end of their car.

If you are one of our troops, and you'd like to put together a little something on what you wish people would not do, say or ask you, then please feel free.

I am honored to be among those who sacrifice so much. Thank you for all you've done!

Bell

That's similar to how her father reacted when she said she was joining the navy. "It will kill me if you become part of that innocent baby killing machine!"

It saddens me that he will be my FIL soon....