CDM@ Northwest Armory
The Northwest Armory is typical of buildings one can find throughout the city of chicago. Beautifull with its intricate carvings, depictions of soldiers lining the outer grey stone walls. The date 1818. Two eagles majestically sit up top, as if guarding the area surrounding the building. When I had first received the address for the armory, it reminded me of something I had participated in about two years ago. A memorial.
On Dec 1, 1958 a fire raged through the Our Lady of the Angels School. Varnished walls enabled the fire to move quickly throughout the building. 93 children and three Nuns parished. A Requiem Mass was held at this armory for 27 of the children. Over seven thousand people came to the armory that day. To mourn the loss of life in that horrific tragedy.I noticed when I went there two years ago. What was once a bustling, yet quiet neighborhood. Where one could walk about unafraid. Had fallen into decline. After that tragedy people moved away. The school on Avery, had been rebuilt. Yet the people were no longer the same. An indepth aura of sorrow, and regret still remains.
Driving down there, one can see the decline. Perhaps? It is slowly moving upward again. Even so, this does not stop the monthly training sessions. Illinois Army National Guard members come from all around the chicago and surrounding suburbs to take classes, and train. This battalion ready and prepared to be put into action by our Governer at any time.
They have been too Bosnia for a Peacekeeping Mission, Afghanistan, and most recently Hurricane Katrina. Although when they talk about Katrina, it is the Coast Guard that they admire. If one were to ask them their answer is; what this battalion did was minimal compared to the efforts of the coast guard. Those five weeks they were there. Five weeks, called to duty. In a moments notice? Their families left behind as they work to improve whatever situation they are placed in. Here in america, not just overseas. For Katrina, it was to set up supply lines to get the much needed food, water, etc. Into that flooded region. Afterwards to return home, resume jobs. Get on with there daily lives. The Army National Guardsmen/Woman work jobs like regular citizens.
Therefore taking a day off work, and baking. Seemed nothing. Compared to the sacrifice and diligence of these brave men and woman. Through the efforts of three angels and numerous junior/teen angels, over 300 cookies and treats were baked.
In our family baking is passed down to the next generation. It was one of the highlights of my childhood. My mother, sisters and I baking together. Although the Kolachky recipe my daughter and I made was the Bohemian style. My mother is in the process of moving, so her recipe has been tucked away in storage. This was the closest one I could find on the internet. One soldier stressing he was watching his waistline could be coerced into trying one because there is only three tablespoons of sugar used in one batch.My daughter is the decorator. Angels with purple wings, the SA emblam on a few. Creative, and colorfull {Our discussion on the neon frosting ended up with us throwing it away. We want them to want to eat them. Not look at them and wonder. Green and yellow neon?}
Cinnamen apple bread, muffins {blueberry, banana, and chocolate chip,} cupcakes, and rice krispy treats, rounded out this morning respite from training. It worked out well, something for everyone.
Our goal was to arrive at the armory at 9:30. First stopping to pick up Renee, her sister and a friend. Renees sister is joining the military. So far we have this; "the army offers the best college fund." Our SPC Timothy agrees. If you can get past basic training. One should prepare for those gruelling weeks. Two mile runs, and 2 minutes of situps {you have to do so many of them in 2 minutes.} Pushups. It is not "as bad" as it was, I guess. Seems to be the general consensus.Another Soldiers Angel met us there as well. She is spunky, and I hadn't realised she was air force at one time.
With a trunk full of goodies we started off, yahoo map in hand. A gift bag for Major John. He has been officially thanked. Given an Angel and the Official Soldiers Angel coin. For going above and beyond this call of duty. *smiles* Without him, none of this would have transpired. What seems too happen in this Angel Life, is that we are able to meet some incredible people. I write this often. But it is true.
We were lucky. Major John commented. Holly set the Sa alarm, and we stuck with it. Oh no, he's not going to pass us off to some more deserving troups!! Which was what he attempted to do. Almost stalking we were bound and determined to thank him whether he felt it was deserved or not!! I had a discussion with a soldier at the armory. "This never happens." At least not in our area? I know of some that do this in there areas. But, my fellow angels this is the call to make it happen more often in other areas!
These opportunities seem to work well, if we have an insider.For instance;Parking was made available for us in front of the armory. The neighborhood was packed with cars. 50 to 80 soldiers were at the armory that day.Major John waited in front, so we could get past the guard at the door.We were able to ask the important questions; how many will be there, do they have allergies, store bought or baked, what is the best time?
The CDM's should be sanctioned by military personnel? Ask someone, to make sure we meet there regulations or specifications. Baked or store bought. Was an issue discussed. Back in the 60's.....Well, lets just write the treats had a bit of a kick to them. So at that time they could not accept baked goods. Therefore it is best to ask first what is appropriate to bring. After all, these are the ones we are trying to support. Everyone should know by now, the military is regulation. From the way they cuff their sleeves, to the way they moved past the table of treats. Orderly and politely. It does not bother me to be called m'am. I always thought I got my ability to stand in line patiently, by that time I spent as a military wife. This is a rules and regulation way of life.
It is not the event itself that makes this so worthwhile. It is the people that participate. This was a suprise. The soldiers came out from there morning class, to find cookies, etc. Lining the table. We angels took a spot against the wall. This was our first CDM, we were not sure how to proceed. One by one, male and female soldiers came by and shook our hands, thanking us, as we thanked them. The "thank you" game. Very serious this is. Each one walking past, with a firm grip in there handshake. Thank you for bringing these. Our reply; thank you for serving our country. We want to thank you, for all that you do.
I have to admit, I am like a four year old, when around military personnel. I have tons of questions. Major John wore the desert uniform. Yet, the others wore the "old" uniform. Dark green and black cami. I was able to meet a writer, from their blog. It is always fascinating, getting the perspective of military personnel on everyday events.
The different boots worn. Desert boots are best, because you don't have to polish them. {trust me, polishing is an artform} Velcro emblams versus sewn on.Numerous funny stories. The now infamous Kuchi- {meaning; those who move} Camel with his I.D badge sanctioned by the military. *smiles*Where have they been, what do they do there? There is no hesitation, in recalling different situations, and the variety of things our military faces, when they go oftentimes too far off regions. Afghanistan. The people, culture, market places. Our military doesn't just go in and americanize these people. No. There is protocal, and understanding them. Working with them. Adapting to the surroundings and culture of the people.
Looking at these brave men and woman, one cannot help but feel that touch of pride in our country. God, it is great to be an american!! I learn alot from them. My teen angel as well. What is supposed to be an effort too support, always turns into an opportunity to indulge in that american pride. As well, to learn something valuable to enable us to better appreciate this american life often taken for granted. Why do people join the military with its rules and regulations? Sign up for 6 to 8 years? A soldier goes where they are told too go. One Soldier I spoke too put it best; "We want to uphold these freedoms. We have a pride in our country and feel it is worthwhile." Too dedicate years of service too it. Collectively I would guess, between them all there is over two hundred years of service. {That is a minimal guess. Very minimal.}
As we drove home, flying high. *High five* Mission Accomplished!! There are a variety of new missions, that begin from this one. Like the inevitable tree of life, branches. Well, yes there are more branches of the military needing to be thanked. Navy, Air force, the Marines. Hooah!!
Each time we meet military personnel, they give us the opportunity too better understand the conditions our soldiers live in overseas now. Which enables us too support them to the best of our abilities. Thank You Major John, and your battalion for an excellent morning!! What a great time!!
God Bless Our Armed Forces and There Families!!
On Dec 1, 1958 a fire raged through the Our Lady of the Angels School. Varnished walls enabled the fire to move quickly throughout the building. 93 children and three Nuns parished. A Requiem Mass was held at this armory for 27 of the children. Over seven thousand people came to the armory that day. To mourn the loss of life in that horrific tragedy.I noticed when I went there two years ago. What was once a bustling, yet quiet neighborhood. Where one could walk about unafraid. Had fallen into decline. After that tragedy people moved away. The school on Avery, had been rebuilt. Yet the people were no longer the same. An indepth aura of sorrow, and regret still remains.
Driving down there, one can see the decline. Perhaps? It is slowly moving upward again. Even so, this does not stop the monthly training sessions. Illinois Army National Guard members come from all around the chicago and surrounding suburbs to take classes, and train. This battalion ready and prepared to be put into action by our Governer at any time.
They have been too Bosnia for a Peacekeeping Mission, Afghanistan, and most recently Hurricane Katrina. Although when they talk about Katrina, it is the Coast Guard that they admire. If one were to ask them their answer is; what this battalion did was minimal compared to the efforts of the coast guard. Those five weeks they were there. Five weeks, called to duty. In a moments notice? Their families left behind as they work to improve whatever situation they are placed in. Here in america, not just overseas. For Katrina, it was to set up supply lines to get the much needed food, water, etc. Into that flooded region. Afterwards to return home, resume jobs. Get on with there daily lives. The Army National Guardsmen/Woman work jobs like regular citizens.
Therefore taking a day off work, and baking. Seemed nothing. Compared to the sacrifice and diligence of these brave men and woman. Through the efforts of three angels and numerous junior/teen angels, over 300 cookies and treats were baked.
In our family baking is passed down to the next generation. It was one of the highlights of my childhood. My mother, sisters and I baking together. Although the Kolachky recipe my daughter and I made was the Bohemian style. My mother is in the process of moving, so her recipe has been tucked away in storage. This was the closest one I could find on the internet. One soldier stressing he was watching his waistline could be coerced into trying one because there is only three tablespoons of sugar used in one batch.My daughter is the decorator. Angels with purple wings, the SA emblam on a few. Creative, and colorfull {Our discussion on the neon frosting ended up with us throwing it away. We want them to want to eat them. Not look at them and wonder. Green and yellow neon?}
Cinnamen apple bread, muffins {blueberry, banana, and chocolate chip,} cupcakes, and rice krispy treats, rounded out this morning respite from training. It worked out well, something for everyone.
Our goal was to arrive at the armory at 9:30. First stopping to pick up Renee, her sister and a friend. Renees sister is joining the military. So far we have this; "the army offers the best college fund." Our SPC Timothy agrees. If you can get past basic training. One should prepare for those gruelling weeks. Two mile runs, and 2 minutes of situps {you have to do so many of them in 2 minutes.} Pushups. It is not "as bad" as it was, I guess. Seems to be the general consensus.Another Soldiers Angel met us there as well. She is spunky, and I hadn't realised she was air force at one time.
With a trunk full of goodies we started off, yahoo map in hand. A gift bag for Major John. He has been officially thanked. Given an Angel and the Official Soldiers Angel coin. For going above and beyond this call of duty. *smiles* Without him, none of this would have transpired. What seems too happen in this Angel Life, is that we are able to meet some incredible people. I write this often. But it is true.
We were lucky. Major John commented. Holly set the Sa alarm, and we stuck with it. Oh no, he's not going to pass us off to some more deserving troups!! Which was what he attempted to do. Almost stalking we were bound and determined to thank him whether he felt it was deserved or not!! I had a discussion with a soldier at the armory. "This never happens." At least not in our area? I know of some that do this in there areas. But, my fellow angels this is the call to make it happen more often in other areas!
These opportunities seem to work well, if we have an insider.For instance;Parking was made available for us in front of the armory. The neighborhood was packed with cars. 50 to 80 soldiers were at the armory that day.Major John waited in front, so we could get past the guard at the door.We were able to ask the important questions; how many will be there, do they have allergies, store bought or baked, what is the best time?
The CDM's should be sanctioned by military personnel? Ask someone, to make sure we meet there regulations or specifications. Baked or store bought. Was an issue discussed. Back in the 60's.....Well, lets just write the treats had a bit of a kick to them. So at that time they could not accept baked goods. Therefore it is best to ask first what is appropriate to bring. After all, these are the ones we are trying to support. Everyone should know by now, the military is regulation. From the way they cuff their sleeves, to the way they moved past the table of treats. Orderly and politely. It does not bother me to be called m'am. I always thought I got my ability to stand in line patiently, by that time I spent as a military wife. This is a rules and regulation way of life.
It is not the event itself that makes this so worthwhile. It is the people that participate. This was a suprise. The soldiers came out from there morning class, to find cookies, etc. Lining the table. We angels took a spot against the wall. This was our first CDM, we were not sure how to proceed. One by one, male and female soldiers came by and shook our hands, thanking us, as we thanked them. The "thank you" game. Very serious this is. Each one walking past, with a firm grip in there handshake. Thank you for bringing these. Our reply; thank you for serving our country. We want to thank you, for all that you do.
I have to admit, I am like a four year old, when around military personnel. I have tons of questions. Major John wore the desert uniform. Yet, the others wore the "old" uniform. Dark green and black cami. I was able to meet a writer, from their blog. It is always fascinating, getting the perspective of military personnel on everyday events.
The different boots worn. Desert boots are best, because you don't have to polish them. {trust me, polishing is an artform} Velcro emblams versus sewn on.Numerous funny stories. The now infamous Kuchi- {meaning; those who move} Camel with his I.D badge sanctioned by the military. *smiles*Where have they been, what do they do there? There is no hesitation, in recalling different situations, and the variety of things our military faces, when they go oftentimes too far off regions. Afghanistan. The people, culture, market places. Our military doesn't just go in and americanize these people. No. There is protocal, and understanding them. Working with them. Adapting to the surroundings and culture of the people.
Looking at these brave men and woman, one cannot help but feel that touch of pride in our country. God, it is great to be an american!! I learn alot from them. My teen angel as well. What is supposed to be an effort too support, always turns into an opportunity to indulge in that american pride. As well, to learn something valuable to enable us to better appreciate this american life often taken for granted. Why do people join the military with its rules and regulations? Sign up for 6 to 8 years? A soldier goes where they are told too go. One Soldier I spoke too put it best; "We want to uphold these freedoms. We have a pride in our country and feel it is worthwhile." Too dedicate years of service too it. Collectively I would guess, between them all there is over two hundred years of service. {That is a minimal guess. Very minimal.}
As we drove home, flying high. *High five* Mission Accomplished!! There are a variety of new missions, that begin from this one. Like the inevitable tree of life, branches. Well, yes there are more branches of the military needing to be thanked. Navy, Air force, the Marines. Hooah!!
Each time we meet military personnel, they give us the opportunity too better understand the conditions our soldiers live in overseas now. Which enables us too support them to the best of our abilities. Thank You Major John, and your battalion for an excellent morning!! What a great time!!
God Bless Our Armed Forces and There Families!!
posted by Saoirse at 5:43 AM
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