Patriotism:  “What do we mean by patriotism in the context of our times?… (A) sense of national responsibility… a patriotism which is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but a tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.”  – President Abraham Lincoln

We would like to thank the people of Northern Michigan for their support and encouragement during the difficult period of the past six months since the tragedy of Matthew’s death. 

The communities that have shown support have been a real blessing to us and our extended families and friends.  Words do NO justice for our gratitude.

In the past, when Matthew left for deployment, the only thing to bring peace in our hearts was to think about his safe return.  We know that won’t be happening now.  However, Matthew and us have an extended family that reaches far beyond this place. 

We recently learned that there are no plans for any welcome home celebrations for the 173^rd, 2-503 Army Airborne Battalion when they return to their home base at Camp Ederle in Vicenza Italy after at least 15 months in Afghanistan, where they lived and fought in horrendous conditions.  There is not a local American community in Italy to step up and put on a Heroes welcome for them, as so many would do here in the states.  Very few of the soldiers will be returning to family or loved ones there in Italy.  By far the majority of soldiers are single, with no family to welcome them back or home support to assist them in transitioning from war and death to peace and recuperation. 

Cheryl and I, together with others, have been supporting the 173^rd 2-503 Battalion troops, who continue to endure a tenacious tour of duty in Afghanistan that is not yet over, are asking that you join us in raising funds for a proper WELCOME HOME CELEBRATION when they arrive back in Italy.  There will be approximately 2000 troops returning and we believe a GRAND CELEBRATION is well deserved.  We would love to have banners flying there to show the support from communities throughout this nation in honor of our Sky Soldiers returning as well in memory of our Sky Angels of the 173^rd Airborne Brigade.

If we all pitch in, it is no great sacrifice for a few.  It is hard to imagine the transition of so many Sky Soldiers who, we are sure, think it is “JUST THEIR JOB”.

Please join us in donating for the WELCOME HOME CELEBRATION for the 173^rd 2-503 SKY SOLDIERS. 

Checks can be made paybable to: 173^rd Sky Angels Fund.  The funds will be reserved for that purpose only (Sky Angels are our fallen soldiers of the 173^rd Airborne).  

                               Please mail checks to:                          173^rd Sky Angels Fund

                                                                                                c/o Terry and Cheryl Blaskowski

                                                                                                PO BOX 164

                                                                                                CHEBOYGAN MI 49721

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call us at 231-627-9732, 231-818-2560 or email us at airborne173rdskyangelsfund@yahoo.com or candtb@triton.net

To read about support that many great Americans have been joining together to provide to these soldiers go to www.tankerbabelc985.vox.com .  Leta Carruth (she adopted Matt’s platoon and sent so much support to them) has been a driving force in providing support to our troops in Afghanistan.  Also, there is a great story about our son Matthew at www.blackfive.net it is towards the bottom of the page now, but worth the read.

With much gratitude,

Terry and Cheryl Blaskowski and family

Parents of SFC Matthew Blaskowski

Platoon Leader, Battle Company 1^st Platoon

KIA 23 September 2007, FOB Vegas, Afghanistan