Lompoc mom hopes to honor son's memory in trip to Iraq [Freeper debbieargel]

Santa Barbara (Cal.) News-Press ^ | January 23, 2006 | NORA K. WALLACE

[glocker23]

Derek Argel is a true American hero, a member of the Air Force Special Forces Combat Controllers, he died in a plane crash on Memorial Day 2005 in Iraq. Derek left behind a beautiful wife and son. Since his death Derek's mother has been an outspoken member of the Gold Star families speaking out in support of our troops and their work in Iraq. She has stood up to the leftists that use the names of our beloved troops to further their political agenda and demanded that Derek's name be removed from the anti-war "memorial" sites.

Debbie Argel Bastian has posted on freerepublic in the past (debbieargel) asking for help in getting the word of the pro-US, pro-troops, gold star families out to the public. Now as the article mentions she is planning to go to Iraq along with other gold star families with Move America Forward.

I would love to see freerepublic play some role in helping this trip get done. The mission of Debbie and Move America Forward is directly in line with the things that freerepublic values. With our strength in numbers and conviction I think we could really help give this tour added financial support.

Anyways, thats just my two cents.

For anyone wanting to know more about Derek Argel there is an excellent website in his memory at:

http://rileyd.chs.lusd.org/Derek's%20Page/Derek%20Argel%20Information%20Page.htm

[Darkwolf377]

Thanks for posting this.

As we support the Gold Star families in their support of the troops their loved ones served with, we have to remember they are still families who've lost someone. That they can work through their grief by supporting those who fight on is truly inspirational.

[G Larry]

Prayers for her and her son.

I lived in Lompoc in the 70's & 80's.

[NonValueAdded]

BTTT

[ishabibble]

Could you please post a link where fellow FReepers can go and donate towards Deb's planned trip? I would like to help. Just think what a boost our guys will get from seeing an honourable Gold Star mother. Funny how when the going gets tough, the tough love their moms so much more!!

My USMC is back in Iraq on his second tour. His son is named Brady, who was born nearly a month after my son redeployed. Oh, how I love those armchair patriots who debate the morality of a data mining surveillance program, as my DIL faces yet another day of open ended hope and maybe, maybe a phone call.

Prayers to heaven for Deb, Wendy, Logan, and all of Derek Argel's family. If Deb sees this post, please know how much your courage and humanity means to me. Better than anyone, I am sure you know how difficult the unsure times can be, and I wish to express my respect and admiration for your eloquent and brave stance, in the face of the enemy. I will keep you in my heart as an example of true grace.

Sincerely,
ishabibble

[glocker23]

The problem is I don't know of anywhere to donate to, I am trying to find out a way to donate, but I think it would be even better to have freepers donate together in one lump donation... I would love any suggestions or help in how to do this

[jigsaw]

Link to Derek's memorial site is HERE.  

Every Freeper should visit this beautiful memorial.

There is information on the site about making a donation.

[jamesm51]

ping...

[debbieargel]

Thanks so much to everyone for thinking of donating to our cause. The instructions on how to donate on line or mail a donation for the Iraq trip are at MoveAmericaForward.com
Donations are tax-deductable. Make checks out to Move America Forward with "Gold Star" trip in the memo. Thanks to all.
Debbie Argel Bastian

[Diva Betsy Ross]

Dear Debbie~ I will visit your sons memorial site, I will cry, I will be angry at the loss and I know I will be proud that I am a fellow American to your hero son.

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your service, and I want to tell you I think you are a hero as well.

I too am a Mom, my sons are three and seven~ They have not yet had a chance to fight for freedom, but I hope they will as they get older. I know they understand the importance of men like your son-because I tell them everyday.

As a Mom~ I really can not imagine the pain in your heart over losing your child~ I can only tell you I feel sorrow over your loss- our loss. That is real I promise you that.

I really appreciate that you have continued yours sons fight~for our benefit.

May God always hold you and your family close, and let you know how much you are appreciated.

[ChefKeith]

using the Chili list and adding a few PING!

[ChefKeith]

You too.

[Diva Betsy Ross]

Attention needed here:

If you are so inclined, please see this thread and follow the link to Move America Forward to help send Gold Star Mothers, including our own freeper Debbieargel, to Iraq. Debbie is the proud mother of Capt. Derek Argel, USAF Special Ops, KIA Memorial Day, 2005.

Here is the link: Please make donation to Move America Forward and put Gold Star Trip in the Memo

Thank you!

[Shaun_MD]

Thanks for the ping!

[shield]

bttt

[ChefKeith]

No problem and BTTT

[E.G.C.]

BTTT

[SouthTexas]

Thanks for the ping.

What is on top of that chili, or is that beans?

[justshutupandtakeit]

It is mothers like these which make a country great. Should most become like Sheehan our nation is doomed.

[ChefKeith]

Chili- cheeze and cilantro I think. I robbed it off google.