Time to Say “Thank You!”

Sometimes in life we don’t have the opportunity to say “Thank You!” as quickly as we would like. Today, 15-years after the fact, I was able to express my gratitude for assistance received during very difficult times for so many in our corner of the world.

On May 25, 2008 an EF-5 tornado struck Butler County. Most people remember that Parkersburg was hit, but the tornado remained on the ground for 43-miles, devastating everything in its path, including other communities and rural residences. Sadly, lives were lost in the storm. Many, many other lives were changed forever by the incident.

Following the tornado, Bremer County and nearly every county in Iowa were hit by record-breaking flooding. Again, so many lives and communities were changed forever.

During both incidents Butler and Bremer County – along with other counties in the paths – received assistance from the Iowa National Guard, including soldiers based out of Waterloo. During those incidents the soldiers responded to the tasks, completed their missions, and left the area for their next call. I was never able to say “Thank You!”

Today the Waterloo-based 133 – " Ironman Battalion” invited area people to a “meet and greet” of sorts. We heard a presentation by several soldiers, talked with the soldiers, viewed their equipment, and for those interested – we flew over the Cedar Valley in a Chinook helicopter.

During the presentation one soldier – Colonel Hunter – mentioned responding to Parkersburg and Waverly in 2008. My time to say thank you had come! I watched and waited and finally had an opportunity to shake the hand of a gentleman that made a difference to so many people. Granted, he was part of a team that made a difference, but to me he was the person I could thank on behalf of all of the guardsmen and women.

Colonel Hunter, I again thank you for your service in 2008 and beyond. Your leadership, integrity, and belief in our country has benefitted each of us. Know that you and your fellow soldiers were appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to talk today.

Thank you!