I know what it is like to have a parent sent to war with no certainty of return. My father was an Air Force forward air controller (FAC), in Viet Nam for a year; four months with the Koreans, eight months with the Green Berets. FACs flying search and destroy missions with the Green Berets had an 87% mortality rate.
He found “WANTED” posters for the “BIG FAC” in the jungle – he is 6’4” so that’s how the VC identified him. He was unable to carry any personal letters or photographs with him in case he was captured, and his captors used the information against him. He burnt every picture or letter my mother sent him and left the ashes in the jungle.
I was two years old when my father went to Viet Nam. My sister was one year old. He came back when I was three. During these eight months, my father shouldered the honor and burden of a country. Our family shouldered the honor and burden of his absence.
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My Dad and I before he left for Viet Nam |
My Dad’s graduation photo from the Air Force Academy. |
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 One of the few pictures Dad sent from Viet Nam. This one was taped over my bed. |
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One of pictures my Mom sent my Dad in Viet Nam. He burnt his copy. |
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My sister and I after Dad came home. I sometimes wore his Green Beret as a special treat. |
Growing up in a military family taught me the value of discipline and determination. I found the same values at CrossFit. I’ve been a member at LaLanne Fitness in San Francisco since it opened July 2008. When I went to the Games in July 2009, I was hooked. Hooked on a whole community of people who are passionate about exercise, but also about supporting one another while we all get stronger, more fit, and better equipped for life! That’s what inspired me to launch OMG*Omega3, a 2010 International CrossFit Games Sponsor, and The Fit for Life Fund.
Help make it real… for children who need our help and our inspiration to be Fit for Life.
