Hi Kids,
Well, I got a response in the mail for the letter I posted in this blog several months ago. When I opened the envelope the first thing I looked at was a note on a business card that read -
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Due to mail screening procedures, we
have only recently received your letter.
We appreciate your patience
in awaiting this response.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The letter is written on DOD Stationary and reads:
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
1000 NAVY PENTAGON
WASHINGTON DC 20350-1000
September 11, 2007
MS VALERIE ROBINSON
13514 OLIVE TREE LANE
POWAY CA 92064
Dear Ms. Robinson:
Thank you for your letter to President George W. Bush concerning the treatment you received during your son's funeral. I am answering on behalf of the President.
Petty Officer Second Class Shane Eric Patton, United States Navy, will forever be remembered for his courage and willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. You can be exceedingly proud of his enduring contribution to the freedoms we hold so dear.
I am deeply concerned that you feel you were mistreated at your son's funeral and truly regret any shortcomings in acknowledgement you may have experienced. Although I am unable to alter the past, it would be a privilege to assist you in resolving your concerns. Shane's military records are located at the Bureau of Naval Personnel. To request access to his records, you may call the Bureau's Records Review office at (901) 874-4885. We have contacted them in advance on your behalf, and they will be more than happy to help you.
I trust this information will be of assistance and sincerely wish you and your family the best in your future endeavors. A grateful Nation joins you in mourning the loss of your son. Again, thank you for writing the President.
Sincerely,
J.J. DRAEGER
Director, White House Liaison Office
_________________________________________________
I called that number several times after reading it, but the line was always busy. I suppose it is time to Phone them again. April 08, 2007 is the date of my Posted Letter to the President if you want to re read it. To be honest, I am not sure what to say if and when they do answer the phone. I will have to consult with Grandpa Berdeski before I phone them.
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-A Quick update to the 2007 Fire Storm cleanup-
We had the Tree's cleaned up and removed - so the yard is looking pretty good again. We need to get a good watering into the grass as those Santa Ana winds and dry weather from the fires dried everything out. We have a well on the property so that will help. Things are looking good in the yard - Now for the Roof... which is next. We are so lucky and blessed that we have a house to call home and repair. All told - 88 residents of Poway, CA lost their homes. Rosie goes to the Middle School and 20 teachers and 80 Students were among those 88 residents who lost everything. It is a very solemn time here in Poway - and things will get better - They always do. Miracles come in uncommon ways!
I love you kids -
Come home soon...
: ) Mom
