807 Miles

This has been quite an eventful month for the McGehee family. We have had two high school graduations and too many birthdays to count. We also celebrated Collier's advancement at ALERT in May. Now, Collier is officially 'stationed' back at ALERT for phase 2: Emergency Response Training.

Collier was apprehensive about returning to Texas after a four week furlough. When we asked him how he felt about being back he would respond, "Mixed emotions." Our laid back red-head is a homebody and loves being with his family. I think the thought of being separated from us again bothered him greatly (Dad and I may not have helped with that when we cried our goodbyes).

We were so surprised to hear from Collier with a phone call after only four days! He so thoughtfully remembered that my 21st birthday was today and called to wish me a joyful one (it made my day!). The picture above is from Bucca di Beppo, where Dad, Mom, and Papa took me for a birthday dinner. Collier is obviously edited in (I thought I would send him a copy of that picture in an upcoming letter). We miss him! I especially missed him today as we usually spend these special occasions together. This is only the third year that we have been apart on a birthday.

During our phone call, Collier gave us much good news! He has free access to the phone so he can call regularly. He has access to e-mail (it is heavily monitored). He said that he felt much better (less emotional) after his first night back at ALERT. I knew he would! He also told us that the men completed high angle rescue training this week, which he enjoyed. It was a more thorough and intense version of the rescue training that he received at Basic Training. He is looking forward to chainsaw training next week. Over the weekend the unit is going on a mini-deployment into nearby Gladewater to volunteer at the town's holiday celebration.

Please remember Collier in your prayers for the next few months. We desire that he be pushed mentally with phase 2 and beyond, whereas we desired that he be pushed physically during Basic. From now on, Collier will be expected to steadily grow in character and have a firm grasp on the skills that he is taught. He will be spending many hours each day in class and will be required to turn in homework and assignments on a schedule. Collier is not very good at this, but we (and he) know that he is capable of success when he purposefully chooses to have a good attitude about something. We also count this time as excellent preparation in a wholesome environment for what he will encounter when he begins college next year.

Collier is also seeking direction for the future. As he learns skills in ERT, he has a decision to make about returning for Specialist training in phase 3. He believes that he does want to continue, but is still unsure of what he wants to learn.

A sincere 'thank-you' goes out to everyone who has been remembering our family in their prayers. We are so encouraged and comforted knowing that our friends are lifting us up to the Lord. We in turn love to pray for our friends, or rather our Colorado Family! We love you all!

Chelsey for the McGehees