For the Families of Our Fallen, This Christmas 2011

The wind is howling at my doorstep
This eve of Christmas Eve
The trees are bending low its clear
As Christmas day draws near
As I decked the tree this Christmas
I thought of those so brave
Of those who've lost a loved one
Who stepped forth for me and gave
They gave their all for Canada
A gift beyond compare
They stood a world away in time
Where few would tread or dare
So many loved ones share in tears
In thoughts they've left behind
Hugs once held so warm and close
A smile within a mind
The TREE has become so special now
For it holds a life time past
Its sparkling lights a memory's glow
Of a hero once held so near
As garland wrapped the tree in smiles
Those smiles of yesteryears
Those smiles held upon a face
Forever now held near
Each piece of tinsel a frozen tear
Shed at a time of loss
And now reflecting the reason why
For this hero was dearly loved
A true angel tops this Christmas tree
For is seen when looking high
As a loved one lifts their faces near
And a prayer races from a heart
A wish that they were standing near
A wish for laughter's sound
A warmth a hug once use to bring
Remains a memory oh so close
Oh Canada, our heroes gave
Their loved ones hold our hearts
Lord please reach out and hold them close
Please be so near this season forth

By: Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
Our Thoughts, Our Hearts, Our Prayers
Wishing You All A Wonderful Christmas
rogbor@live.ca

To all the Family and Friends of Trooper Larry Rudd. No words can ease the pain you are going through during this most tragic time, but do know many, many Canadians care of your loss. Larry is a true Canadian Hero, one in which we will never forget. I stood on Kandahar Airfield for his Ramp Ceremony, and it broke my heart to see him off. It was very honoring to be there, and to see the Royal Canadian Dragoons Flag marched ahead of him. My brother Mark also served with the Dragoons, but was killed in that same area of Panjwaii back in October of 2006. I spoke with crew members of Larry's after that most tragic day, and they couldn't say enough about him. We, the Wilson's of London Ontario, will always have you in our Hearts. Sincerely, Sean Wilson...a proud civilian serving in Kandahar.

My heart goes out to the family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers of Trooper Larry John Zuidema Rudd. May he Rest In Peace.

A chill has crept up my spine and froze my mind in thought
For a trooper who laid down his life, who will never be forgot
Canada weeps, once again, for the loss of another son
A gentle giant he was called, by nearly everyone
Yet family, friends knew this loving son
Who stepped forth for you and me
To bring about a better world, a safer world to be
Their hearts so fallen with this tragic loss
Their tears will flow and flow
At the loss of a gentle man, who loved his country so
Oh Lord be near, please comfort those, so fallen in their love
Of a gentle giant’s passing and lift him high above
Where he’ll be safe in loving arms and near to heaven’s gates
Where so many others stand their guard for you, us to await
For we will see them in another life
Until that time and when
We who keep the faith for them
Will join them once again
As I look into the heavens
I know you’ve drawn him near
For the warmth I feel now settles me
For I know he’s standing near
For his family, friends and loved ones
As time slowly heals this pain
Please know that he is standing near
You will join him once again
You’ll find him near in a gentle breeze
As he whispers through the leaves
Or feel his love on shoulders warmed by a sun who smiles on thee
Oh Lord help those who need to know that he is ever near
And lay your hand upon them close and hold them oh so dear
We thank you Lord for a giant walked
Our earth your world to keep
It safe and kind for gentle souls
A better world to make

Trooper Larry John Zuidema Rudd, we knew you not, but our prayers reach out for you, your loved ones, friends, and fellow soldiers. We do, so dearly, thank you and your loved ones for your efforts towards making our world a better place.

By: Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family Slave Lake Alberta
rogbor@live.ca

I want to thank you for your great sacrifice. You are a hero. RIP