The Price of War and The Power of Love

Click Photo to enlarge

Thanks to Nancy Willing from over at Delaware Way.

This is not a post about politics, I would not cheapen their joy nor their sorrow in that way. No words can express the confluence of paradoxical emotions that they inspire. I would love to comment on the war that caused his injuries or the hope that their wedding inspires, but I am, for once at a lost for words. What I can express is my deep admiration for this young couple and my hopes for their future. Below is Ty and Rene in a simpler time.

View more photos here.

And So It Goes

The Current Casualties in Iraq (From Antiwar.com)
U.S. Killed since war began (3/19/03): 2957
U.S. Killed since "Mission Accomplished" (5/1/03): 2820
U.S. Wounded: 22,235
U.S.EstimatedWounded: 23000 - 100,000
Coalition Killed: 239

Afghanistan (From Icasulaties.org)
U.S. Killed: 357
U.S. Wounded: 1062
Total Wounded All Causes: 5,994
Coalition Killed: 158

Iraqi Killed (From Iraqi Body Count)
Min/Max: 51331/56869

Ways You Can Help The Survivors:
Share The Sacrifice (also helps Vietnam Vets- Thanks Samurai Sam)
Iraq Afghanistan Veterans of America (Formerly Operation Truth)
Fisher House (Vets of All Wars)
Wounded Warrior Project
Any Soldier
The USO
United Spinal Association (aka Eastern Paralyzed Veterans)
Walter Reed Medical Center

Casualty Lists and numbers from: The US DOD via Antiwar.com, & Iraq Body Count, & ICasualities.org