Update for the friends of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Downrange.

I am currently cruising the waters of The Gulf of Mexico and I must say this is a vacation that I have been needing for a couple of years. The seas have been calm for the most part until I have had a cocktail or two. We still have another full day at sea before we reach our Port of Call in Mexico. Today I pretty much passed the day wondering the decks and looking over the ocean and thinking of my son. It was during one of my many ventures across the decks (Going to lunch) that my cell phone rang. Now, before I share with you who called , let me explain the protocols and cost of all cell phone traffic (inbound and out) while on board this ship called Carnival Pride.

Cell phone use is prohibited during meals and shows. I guess it is a big no no at sea. Secondly, each call cost $4.99 per minute plus long distance charges (what ever what they may be) and roaming charges. Well you can imagine my thoughts on this. All I had to do is think about my son and all those rules and charges went out over the port side of Sun Deck (10th level) of the ship. I thank my lucky stars for sticking to my guns.

I was sitting on the deck having lunch with a few family and friends when all of a sudden, my cell phone chirps. I look at the caller ID and with out no doubt I was going to take this call, it was Alex checking in with me. I haven't heard from him in over two weeks and was beginning to feel a little down.

When the phone rang and it was Alex my spirits rose and had all smiles. Alex informed me hat he is well as well as all other members of his OP. He did mention that they had a huge attack yesterday but they were fought off with no injuries. "The fight continues dad" They now have electricity as well as an Xbox to kill down time. I guess I will finally get him the lap top out in the mail once I return.

Many of you will understand when I say this " it is truly music to ones ears when they hear from their young one in the fight" some may not. For those that do not I ask that you think of waking up one morning knowing that your family name will never be carried forward because the one and only son you have has died protecting your freedoms. This is what I think of as well as my father. My only son has decided to serve, so that we all have options in our lives.

Sorry I may have gotten a little heavy here but it really burns me that my cell phone carrier doesn't see it the way I do. They should be able to call anyone at no cost. They are protecting their profits, right?

Lastly, I want to wish Vickie a Happy Birthday and I would say you have the dog in the lap.
(Sorry, Insider humor)

A Fathers Love,

Larry Arnone
AKA A Bluestardad ( I want to keep it that way)
San Francisco, Ca