Wheeler Peak
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
Band of Brothers
Six boys separated by just nine years. The oldest (23) is most likely found climbing a mountain, and the youngest (14) comes straight home from middle school and changes into the "footie" pajamas that have been his wardrobe's staple since last Christmas. These brothers have a relationship that is as unique collectively as they are individually.
Some brothers share close friendships characterized by shared interests. These brothers share frequent arguments. Typically these arguments are in good taste, but occasionally a black eye or two has resulted. Without question they love each other. The greatest strength of their relationship is a willingness to go to the wall for each other whenever necessary. Countless times individual differences have been put aside instantly to rush to the aid of a brother in need. Their unique passions, interests and abilities often fuel the flames of conflict, yet also provide the backbone of one of the greatest bands of brothers I have ever known.
A few months ago I read a book by Stephen Ambrose entitled "A Band of Brothers." A passage from the book best exemplifies what I am describing. Recounting the bonds forged while in the Army during World War II, Kurt Gabel of the 513th PIR recounted, "The three of us, Jake, Joe, and I, became...an entity. There were many entities in our close-knit organizations. Groups of threes and fours, usually from the same squads or sections, core elements within the families that were the small units, were readily recognized as entities.... This sharing... evolved never to be relinquished, never to be repeated. Often three such entities would make up a squad, with incredible results in combat. They would literally insist on going hungry for one another, freezing for one another, dying for one another. And the squad would try to protect them or bail them out without the slightest regard to consequences, cussing them the whole way for making it necessary" (Band of Brothers, p. 21).
To my band of brothers-- John, Bryan, Scott, Josh and Chris
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