Letter to the Editor - May 15, 2008

Today I read with great interest a story you wrote about Sgt. James Healy, and his untimely demise due to an IED. It is one of the few good commentaries that I have read in recent times regarding the strong soldiers from the EOD community.

One of the soldiers you interviewed from the 759th EOD company is my son, Ben Parker. I received a call from Ben saying that there was a funeral he had to attend. It turned out to the one for Jim Healy.

Ben never met Jim, but felt a strong bond that had to be honored. I was moved, shaken and very proud of my boy. I am still learning about the Brotherhood of the Bomb.

Locally we have recently buried another soldier: You may have read about SSgt. Matt Maupin, missing in Iraq since April, 2004. Matt is buried not far from my home. I try to drive by there once or twice a week, just for respect. I never met Matt, Ben never met Matt, but I can assure you the next time Ben is home, we will visit Matt.

Thanks again for you great article. I just wanted you to know that we EOD Dad's appreciate your perspective.