America and Afghanistan

I wasn’t planning to post anything until Chris’ birthday, but here I am. While I have never been to Afghanistan, I will always be connected to Afghanistan. Seeing what has transpired there over the last two weeks breaks my heart – not that it was or ever could be mended after my brother was killed in Afghanistan August 6, 2011. In addition to my brother’s teammates who died that day, seven Afghan allies lost their lives as well. I have often thought of their sisters and brothers, their moms and dads, friends, children and spouses. Our grief unites us though we have never met. 

A couple years ago I learned that Chris received an award for helping over 100 Afghan women and children to safety. I worry for them now and have thought of them often since hearing about my brothers heroic actions. I feel angry, sad, confused and hopeless, and I cannot imagine how intense the emotions of our American military and Afghan citizens are during this time. 

Judging a situation will never make it better or go away. To those who are civilians and have no military connection, please recognize that without a personal perspective and first hand experience a true understanding cannot exist. I think this can be applied to many scenarios in life. I have learned that opinions are irrelevant in moments of crisis. Actions, not empty words, are the heartbeat of good deeds and the only way to have a positive impact in the life of someone who might be suffering. Many Afghans have left their homes and the lives they knew, possibly forever, and will need help. Are you willing to offer a safe space in your home, perhaps fund a hotel stay and familiar meals, or make a donation to assist with both immediate and long-term needs? The challenges will be great. Let’s UNITE as Americans to help those with whom we have been in partnership for two decades. 

My thoughts are also with our American military, both Veterans and those who currently serve. The valiant effort of my brother escorting women and children to safety was mirrored by so many of our men and women in uniform. I have heard of many instances where American troops requested their hometown communities and families send shoes, clothing, toys, food and other items to help Afghans over the course of the past 20 years. Unfortunately, this has garnered practically no media attention. Let us not forget and honor the heroism of our American military as THEY facilitated the rescue work and humanitarian efforts that have taken place.

What we have witnessed is tragic and the long-term consequences are dire; the full impact is yet to be seen. It has been a massive trigger for many of us who have lost our beloved family members. As I have struggled with what I have witnessed, I was grateful for the words of a military spouse describing the presence of our military in Afghanistan. Her message was, “Their cause was just. They provided hope to the Afghan people for 20 years”. HOPE – let’s hold onto that as we come together and provide the support so desperately needed during this time. Below are two ways that will empower you to help.

To help Veterans:

You can donate to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in my brother’s memory by visiting:

ProjectCampbellsCall OR Wounded Warrior Project – Donate

To date, over 30,000 people have become a part of Chris’ legacy to fund the amazing and life-saving programs and services offered to our post 9/11 Veterans.

To help Afghan Refugees:

20 Years After 9/11: Veterans Supporting Afghan Resettlement – Campaign