In service to our country

January 14th, 2005

To the Secretary of Defense:

I would like to thank you for your service to our country. You are at your post, day and night, I assume doing your best.

My brother, SPC Joseph Bickenstaff, was also at his post doing his best. He drown, December 8, 2003, when his Stryker rolled into an irrigation canal.

Please know that I send this letter as my step-brother, also named Joe, is poised ready to embark on his third tour of Iraq.

I am an active member of the international group Military Families Speak Out. You may have heard that our focus is to bring our Soldiers Home Now! We are also very concerned with military member’s safety, medical care and their mental well being.

The Gold Star Families are a group of families who have, like my own, endured the worst possible effect of war. They are requesting a meeting with you the week of the inauguration. They have a lot of valid questions concerning the safety and return of our troops in Iraq. Please know that we, the families of the fallen, will never have our troop return, but we want more than anything for the rest to return safe. I am positive you share this desire.

I met with President Bush. Although I disagree with him completely about almost everything, it was healing to meet him. I saw that he felt sorrow over the loss of my brother. It mattered. Our country needs to unite and begin the process of healing. It would be a very powerful gesture to meet with these families. It is after all the least you could do. Their children died defending your policy.
Actions speak much louder than words. You have stated in the past week your concern and hopes and prayers for our soldiers and the families of the fallen. Please honor your words and listen the citizens who are carrying the burden of this war.

Respectfully,
Susan Livingston