Prayer request

My #1 son called from Army AIT last night to tell me his "Granny" died that morning. Traumatic by itself. #2 son is in the Navy, floating around in an area we aren't allowed to discuss and he took this especially hard. They have lost a total of three close relatives since the end of March - a Great Aunt, an Aunt and now a Grandmother. Granny is my M-O-L (Mother outlaw - the boys' mother and I divorced 15 years ago). My ex's family is very close.

It's bad enough to lose someone close, but three in just over a month is a bit much for any family to take. The fact #2 is half way around the world complicates things. He could get emergency leave, but he would have to pay for his own travel home and back to a FOB - I haven't even looked into how much the travel will cost. #1 is in AZ and could leave the base next Friday night, attend the funeral and return by EOD Sunday and not miss any critical Stage Two training.

Please (if you are so inclined) include my two boys and their mother's family in your prayers. They all need strength and guidance from God. Thanks.

Prayers sent. Wish you and yours all the best.

S58,

Prayers for your sons, their mother, and the family.
And for you. I know you hurt for your boys.

Prayers sent. Also, please pass along thanks from my family to your sons for their service.

I'm adding them to my prayers. I have heard it said that like trouble, bad news comes in 3's so I hope that for them the rest of the year brings good news.

Prayers sent.

Prayers for all of them.

Absolutely prayers sent!

Prayers sent.

Will do.

Thanks everyone! I spoke with #1 son last night. He's coping as much as one can and trying to stay focused on his training. It's tough - no two ways about it. I told him the grieving process is just that - a process. He's putting things into perspective. He said he talked to his brother on the the ship. Because it's not "immediate family," the cost of the trip from a friendly FOB to Florida and back to a friendly FOB is his responsibility. He can get emergency leave and probably get an emergency loan ($3,000 +/-) and just repay it before his hitch is up. Time will tell on that one.

Anyway, everyone's continued prayers are very much appreciated.

Sniper58,

If your Navy son is near an AFB or Naval Air Station overseas, he could get classified as Category 1 (highest of 6 cat's) with Red Cross verified Emergency Leave, and he could fly on Air Force or Navy flight for free. Might be worth looking into.

Sorry for your loss.

Thanks Mike! I'll look into it, but I'm not sure he's near anything - except a $hit$torm. It's definitely worth looking into. He got the official Red Cross call on board yesterday, but Granny doesn't qualify as "immediate family." As such, he was told by someone he doesn't qualify for dead heading or discounts. I think you're right and he should be able to follow the route you outlined. I'll check. Thanks again!