Dear Andy and Julie: As many other American's, I have been listening to the news about the recent elections in Iraq. As I watch, read and listen my eyes well up with tears and my heart bursts with pride. I am the mother of an American Soldier. My son, just 17 when he entered the Army, has had two tours of duty in Iraq. He is a communication specialist and has received special commendation and promotion for his crutial efforts and accomplishments during the initial war in Iraq and as I said, has been back since.for a second deployment. He , along with all of the other brave soldiers, those still with us and those who have given their lives, have made clear a road that leads to freedom for a nation. They have given them back their right to make choices for themselves, to govern themselves and to elect their own government officials and to write their own CONSTITUTION. These soldiers, MY SON, has helped make history. As parents, spouses and families of these brave young men and women we can beam with pride and love for them and what they have accomplished. For those whom have lost loved ones during this fight, I feel sorrow as well for there is no greater loss than the loss of a loved one and for a mother that is also the loss of part of your soul as our children are our soul. God bless them and their families for they have sacraficed and all of their selflessness. Now that I have rambled on, thank you for listening. My emotions and pride run deep and it is nice to be able to share them with you. Lorie Allen Mother of an American Soldier SPC Jaylyn K Collier 82nd Airborn Signal Division