Notes From Candlelight Vigils, 4/22/12: Military Families Speak Out

Dear Reader, In America there has been stunningly little organized opposition to the U.S.'s wars. But one notable exception has been from the people most impacted by these wars, the people who have lost their loved ones in them or who are caring for their loved ones with severe injuries because of them, Military Families Speak Out (MFSO).

For years, Pat Alviso and Jeff Merrick and their Southern California chapter of MFSO have supported the U.S. soldiers with care packages while they are overseas and by supporting them when they return. And supporting them by actively but peacefully raising their voices to end the wars, whether it has been to politicians who fund them, the media that doesn't often cover them or to the American people who largely ignore them. I am a big fan of Pat's and Jeff's MFSO chapter and what follows are two emails we recently exchanged, in reverse order of that exchange:

Dear Pat and Jeff,

Thank you for your kind note. I have never stopped opposing these wars. It was inspiration that guided me out to the street in January, 2006 and it even gave me the words to put on the sign. Six years and 303 vigils later, that inspiration told me it was time to end that vigil.

But I continue to support Korean War vet John Fortier’s weekly vigil, I am a big fan of yours and I continue to publish online regularly to appeal to peoples’ consciences. On http://candlelightvigils.blogspot.com/2012/04/notes-from-candlelight-vigils-42112.html is the latest post, and it came from not only attending John’s vigil Friday night, but also from a letter of mine the Daily Breeze published a few days ago. If you want to see that letter, there is a hyperlink on the address I just gave you.

Don’t be concerned about where to send the tickets. If Maria Barrera wants them she will let you know. Our intent was to support this outstanding gathering you organized. I continue to read your updates and I pray for peace and for the well-being of all mankind.

Dick

From: mfso-oc [mailto:MFSO-OC@earthlink.net]
Sent: Friday, April 20, 2012 10:58 PM
To: 'Dick Kazan'
Subject: RE: BBQ Fundraiser

Thanks, Dick. I have been meaning to call you and talk ever since I got that last very sad notice about your last vigil. It was a tough choice for you- I’m so sure of that. The horrible war that sucks the life out of all of us seems to never end. Thanks- tell us where to send the tickets ( addressed to Maria?) Anyway, hope we can get a chance to chat soon. I still read your inspiring stories. Carry on, friend. paz

Pat Alviso & Jeff Merrick
Military Families Speak Out
Orange County & South Bay Chapter
www.mfsooc.org
Support Our Troops
Bring Them Home Now!
Take Care of Them After They Get Home