Luke Schmitz Survived Iraq

Well today is one year. hard to believe, I know! Through the chaos, ups and downs, it all turned out in the end. I've enjoyed over a month of having Luke home and having a boyfriend once again in the same state. The year has been filled with more downs than ups when you look at the huge events. Three deaths have taken patriotic Americans including Cory Orvik who will be missed terribly by many. However, when you look at other events such as Luke walking again, learning to run, coming home, Fourth of July, and of course the troops coming HOME, the year could be considered a big step. It definitely has been the most interesting year of my life. Horrible at times, and triumphant at others.
The homecoming for the troops was amazing. Yellow ribbons, billboard and signs littered the highway from New York Mills to Detroit lakes, and our troops deserved nothing less. An emotional day for many, but I didn't think I would be so choked up. Luke rode the bus from Clearwater to DL with the guys and was able to catch up and chill out for the final trip. Seeing him in uniform was wonderful, but the most emotional part was seeing him out there with his guys again, and receiving his bronze star. At this point, I was crying pretty good, even brings tears now. I cant ever describe how proud I am of him.
Welcome home troops, and rest in peace Cory.