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Saturday, Jul. 04, 2009

Residents write postcards to the 48th Brigade

The note was simple.

“To you who share the love of our country(,) thanks for everything. We love you all,” the words on the back of a postcard read.

In the coming days, the postcard, along with many others, will be sent to members of the Georgia National Guard’s 48th Brigade, who are serving in Afghanistan. It’s the brigade’s second deployment in the war on terror, after returning home from Iraq three years ago.

“It really touches (the guard members) that people back home recognize what you’re doing and why you’re doing it,” Sgt. Lewis Watson, a recruiting and retention non-commissioned officer with Task Force Spartan, said of the postcards. “You’re not forgotten.”

The author of the above note, Macon resident Audria Latson, said “the patriotic spirit” moved her Friday to take the time to fill out the postcard featuring Otis Redding and his son.

Other postcards also featured the late singer, as well as landmarks around Macon.

The postcard drive was part of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame’s Independence Day celebration that began at noon with patriotic and traditional tunes from 116th U.S. Army National Guard Band. The 116th’s Funk Band was expected to return at 7 p.m. for an R&B and funk show.

The earlier event attracted more than 65 people, many wearing red, white and blue. The musicians, dressed in the new Army combat uniform, played marches, hymns and lots of John Philip Sousa.

When the crowd stood to sing along to “God Bless America,” Michael Curry, a two-time Air Force Veteran, was touched.

“I believe that I live in the greatest country that ever existed, and I believe our country was founded on principles that give everyone a chance at life,” said Curry, who lives in Macon.

To contact writer Jennifer Burk, call 744-4345.