WELCOME HOME SCULPTURE: E-mails from Soldiers

Date: Wed Feb 2, 2005 6:27:10 PM US/Central

I'm in the Austin airport right now and just viewed your work. I just wanted to let you know that you did a wonderful job capturing the spirit of your intent. A soldier or even a citizen's civic duty is never done, we all just take momentary breaks every once in a while. Thanks for that reminder.

-Marc

Date: Mon Jan 17, 2005 12:16:28 PM US/Central

Heather,

James Schenck
Senior Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer
Pentagon Federal Credit Union
www.penfed.org

Date: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:11:12 PM US/Central

Heather, I have spent a good amount of time enjoying your website tonight. Especially the letters;/emails you have received from people who were so touched by your piece at the airport. You are really making a difference. Beautiful work. It was fun seeing Don in your gallery, I was there several hours today and never fail to appreciate having him there with us, thanks to you. The one of Bruce is amazing too! Glad this week went so well... Love, Susie

Date: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:52:52 AM US/Central

Thank you for your wonderful work for the military.

That is what caught my eye.

Our sons good friend was killed in the overtake of Fallujah,Nov 13, 2004, Sgt. Byron W. Norwood, USMC, fromPflugerville,TX

He was 25.

Coverage at statesman.com

My husband retires from the Texas National Guard,Feb 8th, 2005, after 32 yrs.

He is also a Marine, and served in Viet Nam in 1964-65.

Thank you again.

Janis Richter

Date: Wed Jan 12, 2005 1:23:03 PM US/Central

MCM - Walking through the Austin airport I was drawn to your clay sculpture of the desert issue combat gear. Thank you for the compelling display. Freedom is precious and the 1.4 million men and women in uniform protecting our freedom and way of life, have got to know that we are thinking of them, support them and owe them our thanks.

In October of 2004 I was part of a group in Barrington Illinois (NW of chicago) who organized a Freedom Festival to show our support and thanks for the troops. The festival was a great success being an official Operation Tribute to Freedom event recognized by the US Army. You can learn more about our event and our mission at www.we-do-care.org. Our next Freedom Festival is scheduled for June 26th.

I would love the opportunity to begin a dialog to learn more about your sculpture and if you have more of them. Not sure but thoughts crossing my mind -

• Would you be interested in attending our June 26th Freedom Festival and displaying your work?
• Do you have this type of work for sale?
• Do you ever donate to non-profit groups for fund raising opportunities?
• I and another We Do Care founder are headed to the Pentagon on January 27th and Walter Reed Hospital on January 28th to deliver the signed banner and children's cards that were generated at the October Freedom Festival. Not sure if its appropriate but wondering if one of your pieces would be appropriate to provide our hosts as a sign of gratitude

Hope we have a chance to talk.

Dirk Beveridge

Date: Fri Dec 3, 2004 9:02:23 AM US/Central

I would just like to thank you for your appreciation of those that fight for our freedom and I wanted to let you know that there are folks that notice your artwork and are appreciative of it.

Thanks for reminding and remembering.

Jeremy

Date: Tue Aug 24, 2004 10:25:17 AM US/Central

Dear Ms. McMahan,

As I was heading to the gate departing for yet another business trip I had to stop and admire the sculpture of the "left behind items" of a soldier. Words can not describe the feelings I felt upon looking at this marvelous recreation, only few people would see the true meaning and sincerity of this sculpture. I must have stood there for 5 minutes, people loudly exhaling and grunting as they had to alter their course in order to go around this person who was in deep thought over "some" display. I read the placard, collected the card and brought it with me on my journey as a reminder to send this email. Your words of appreciation have touched me deeply. I firmly believe that the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen serving "Our Nation" would greatly appreciate your work and your words. It is people like you that keep us focused on the job at hand, Protecting and Serving Our Country. I myself served 10 years active duty Navy with continuing service in the Navy Reserves. I have spent several months in the Middle East over the past few years and when called upon will do it again. I have always felt that our armed forces should be respected and honored and that this was somewhat overseen by the general public. Today, you have proven me wrong ... and I thank you. You have a God given talent and your work will always be remembered by this Sailor.

With Sincere Gratitude,
George Dansen

Date: May 1, 2004 8:21:36 PM PDT

Hi Heather, my husband and I were in the Austin airport last week and saw your Welcome Home piece. It is wonderful. We were in Texas to visit our son at Ft. Hood. He just got back from an 11 month deployment to Iraq. The boots and helmut are such simple things, but are very important pieces of equipment to a soldier. Now you have given me a different way to look at them in your sculpture. I have to tell you a story about my son's boots. I was moving them while I was cleaning and happened to look at the bottom of them. Written in permanent marker was O-POS, his blood type. It really hit me hard as I realized why they were marked. This was a difficult year for our family as we waited for our son (and only child) to come home. It's nice to know that others were thinking of our soldiers too. Keep up the good work.

Amy Bordano Big Rapids, Michigan

Date: April 29, 2004 4:01:53 PM PDT

Thank you for your sculpture at the Austin Airport.

LTC Allen King

Date: April 8, 2004 1:31:59 PM PDT

heather,

i am xxxx from xxxx xxxx xx. i recently returned home from an eleven month tour in Iraq. it was an odd feeling to walk through a terminal on my way home without watching my back. feeling naked without my weapons, i wandered through the airport realizing what i had been away from for so long. i somehow found myself reading a message from an artist that had constructed a piece of work for soldiers returning home. i found it very ironic that the first thing i saw when i returned to states was a piece designed for some one just like me. i couldnt have asked for a better coming home. everything i needed to hear i read in your message and saw in your work. i think of my friends that didnt make it everyday. every warrior wanders at one time or another if his cause is just or if his friends died in vain. when i saw your art i knew that it was, and that they didnt. thank you for touching my war torn heart with your work.

- anonymous #1

Date: Sat Apr 10, 2004 1:30:00 PM US/Mountain

i am happy for your feeling of purpose. we share a common benifit from our careers.

there is something more you can do. never forget. we soldiers dont make the policies or declare the war. we simply stand ready to protect the freedom that is america. remember my fallen brothers and keep all of the fighting men and women in your prayers. thank you.

- anonymous #1

Date: Sun Apr 11, 2004 8:28:34 PM US/Mountain

we will go back in january. we recieved word last week that if the marines keep encountering such heavy resistance we will be leaving soon. i am part of a very rapidly deploying unit. if they called me right now i would report in less than an hour and be on a plane in less than 18 hours on my way to fight. a little different than being on call for the graveyard shift of the ER, ha. i remember when i first knew i wanted to be what i am. my brother and i were watching the first iraq war on tv. they were talking about rumors of starting the draft again. my brother was 18 and was a prime candidate. i told him i would go too. i guess i did, 12 years later. where will your memorial be? i would really like to see it when you finish. its funny that you speak of your children as little men. i had two soldiers straight out of high school in my team. one was a sniper and the other an RTO (radio operater). these two little men so to speak had barely experienced their own country and yet they were there doing their jobs. i feel a strong parental feeling towards all of my "rangers". the bond of combat is that which can never be broken. i walk through life with smiling.

- anonymous #1

Date: Wed Mar 24, 2004 7:16:54 AM US/Mountain

Dear Ms. McMahan:

I recently had the pleasure of viewing your clay sculpture of combat boots and helmet in the Austin airport. As a US Marine veteran of the Vietnam War I was particularly moved by your piece. I went to Vietnam as a wide-eyed kid and came home a cynical adult. My opinions on war have certainly changed over the past 35 years but the images, smells, thoughts, flash backs and dreams have not lost their edge. And as you know, we were not welcomed home with "thanks." For me this has not been an issue. I understand the value of conflict. Vietnam had no value, therefore, it had no appreciation. That war had no purpose. I deeply believe that our freedom will always come with a high price tag. No one can disagree that, as a nation, we have made some terrible mistakes. But our mistakes do not deserve 9/11. I would give my life to allow others to live in a world without conflict. Unfortunately some in this world will gladly give their lives to assure that we live in a world filled with terror. This war has a purpose. Thank you for your work. It was very inspiring.

Sincerely,
Skip Guarini

Date: Thu Mar 25, 2004 12:26:41 PM US/Mountain

Dear Ms McMahan:

Thank you for your kind reply. I will look forward to your web site and perhaps, someday, viewing your beautiful piece in the museum. No single person hates war or its consequence more then the soldiers that fight them. A soldiers intentions are seldom political. They are survival and the protection of freedoms that we enjoy as a nation. Again....thank you. Please do not hesitate to use my e-mail on your web. Perhaps I will get the pleasure of meeting you someday.

Skip Guarini

Date: Wed Mar 17, 2004 9:53:39 AM US/Mountain

Hello, my name is LaChaka Robinson. I am a noncomissioned officer in the US Army. I have recently returned from Iraq and now I am on leave passing through Austin and I saw your clay piece. I must say the feeling of putting your job behind you even if its only for a week or two... Wow you hit right on the head. You know in your heart you are a soldier 24-7 but to just be another person in the world feels good too... I really don't know exactly what I am saying here so I will try to be breif and get right to the point. I made me feel good to see your piece... Thanks for believing in our time honored profession...

--sistah_unknown

Date: Tue Feb 17, 2004 5:55:20 PM US/Mountain

Dear Miss Gallela, I "noticed on my way home" your piece Welcome Home. It touched me. Returning after 9 months in "the 'stan" it's been difficult in some ways readjusting, dealing with some disappointments and trying to make a new start...but your thoughtfulness and imagination combined my worlds in such a way as to make me feel appreciated. Thank you.

With a warm smile,
Captain "Andy" Kruft, Civil Affairs

Date: Fri Dec 5, 2003 12:02:57 AM US/Mountain

I was in the Austin airport today, coming home on leave from FT.Hood. I saw your piece titled Welcome Home, and I had to stop and read about it. I was very touched, since I will be deploying to Iraq in Feb. I just had to shoot you a note saying thanks for the support,I hope to see more in the future.

Spec. Keith Engle.

Date: Thu Nov 20, 2003 12:01:01 PM US/Mountain

Thank you
veteran of iraq
in austin airport

Date: Sun Nov 16, 2003 1:12:00 AM US/Mountain

Saw your piece at the airport a few days ago, I don't remember the name, but it's the one with the boots, helmet, and goggels. I was home on leave from Iraq at the time, I go back in a day or so. Thank you for thinking of me. Your piece captured the spirit of my leave. Pieces of un-needed equipment discarded in a hurry, yet still visable, a constant reminder. If you'd like anything from Iraq, let me know. I get occasional access to e-mail at the following address: xx.xx@xx.xx However, the best way to get ahold of me is: xxxx xx xx xx xx xx

Thanks again.
Justin

Date: Mon Jul 28, 2003 11:26:51 AM US/Mountain

Ms. McMahan,

Just a note to tell you "Thank You" for your tribute to the military in the Austin Airport. In this day, being in the military is not popular in a lot of circles. But it is those who serve that gives them that choice. Thanks again.

Regards,
Buddy Horne

Date: Mon Aug 4, 2003 10:22:15 AM US/Mountain

Ms. McMahan,

I had the priviledge of viewing your sculpture of a soldier's boots, helmet, and goggles yesterday when passing through the Austin airport. The piece was very moving, and together with your note, very meaningful. As a veteran and military retiree, I applaud you in creating such a powerful statement of support and appreciation for those serving our great nation in these troubling times.Thank you for sharing your speacial talent with this passing traveler. It made my day.

David Hayes, Colonel (Retired), USAF

Date: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:38:05 PM US/Mountain

I traveled in mid-September to Hawaii from Austin and wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your work at the Austin, TX airport. I grew up in Austin and my parents still live there. I live close to the Dallas area for the last 25 years. I have a minor in art and love everything about art. But, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed looking at the different exhibits throughout the airport and especially your work. I hope you are successful in all your endeavors. My husband is a fireman and paramedic and 9-11 deeply impacted our lives. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents with travelers like me!

April Pinales

Date: Thu Nov 20, 2003 10:05:08 AM US/Mountain

Recently, I traveled with a friend of mine and we departed Texas from Austin - Bergstrom Airport. We had an opportunity to view your sculpture of the soldier's helmet, boot etc. that is currently on display in the terminal. We were both very moved and very impressed with the attention to detail you exhibited in your piece. I feel that you have a great talent and that in using it to spur the human mind and emotion to levels of appreciation for the sacrifices that are made to protect our way of life, you have truly used your talent well. Thank you for sharing with the world what must run deep within your soul.

Katherine J. Theodore
Master Scheduler
SRI Sports, Inc.

Date: Sun Aug 17, 2003 10:21:51 AM US/Mountain

Hi Ms. McMAHAN,

I was struck by your piece in the Austin airport while on the way home to NY. It is unforgettable. I noticed that the placque mentioned you are in NY. Do you have a gallery or someplace where I can see more of your work in NY? You have great talent. Thanks,

joe dweck

Date: Tue Oct 28, 2003 9:59:51 AM US/Mountain

Heather (L. Heather?),

Saw your exhibit at theAustin airport Ð the clay boots/helmet piece. Amazing, vivid, moving. Wish I was an art connoisseur, I could better express myself. Anyways, thanks for the moment.

Daniel Zatkovich

Date: Fri Feb 20, 2004 9:49:25 AM US/Mountain

Hello,

I'm sitting here, relaxing on a much deserved vacation and thought I would write. I had recently come through Bergstrom Int. Airport, and saw your sculpture. I had wanted to say thank you for the show of support. Its not something we hear or see everyday (or every month for that matter). Its kind of nice to be suprised when your just wandering around aimlessly looking for some breakfast/lunch. Well this was just a quick note to say thank you. Later on today, I'll be lurking through your web site. Take care of yourself and thank you.

Sincerely,
Robert Nicholson

Date: Mon Jul 21, 2003 5:48:57 PM US/Mountain

I saw your work "Welcome Home" opposite Gate 14 at Austin Bergstrom this afternoon. I liked it very much, and just wanted to say thanks for giving me something so provocative to occupy my mind while waiting for a flight.

Best regards,
Paul Clements

Date: Tue Aug 12, 2003 4:41:36 PM US/Mountain

I love your sculpture....put me on your email list.

Aralyn Hughes

Date: Mon Apr 12, 2004 8:47:34 PM US/Mountain

i think an eagle overlooking from afar the field tomb would give it a very patriotic and symbolic touch. when we do our rifle tombs, we use that individuals weapon, boots, headgear and dog tags. the tags are hung around the butt stock of the M-4, the boots are placed at the base, the headgear on the buttstock as well, and the muzzle is jammed in the dirt up to the front sight post. ill let you know if i have any other ideas.

- anonymous #1

Date: Sat Apr 17, 2004 9:54:20 AM US/Mountain

i sent a butt load of pictures to you on a different email. i will do my best to describe them; in army, 1-a machine gunner in a turret, notice the rosary in his hand. 2-i am on the far right, the other three are on my team 3-as an artist i thought you would appreciate the "dual Picture 4-a family that gave my team refuge for a night.

army3, 1 my sniper looking out a window waiting for a target 2- an airfield siezure 3- this picture was taken whenmy .50 sniper and i were resting under a net in a hole. minutes later some iraqis tried to run there car in the hole to take us out. my snipers back was broken and i still have trouble walking up stairs today. robert is recovering well, he is out of the army and lives in fort worth.

army3 001, 1-oops, same picture 2- coming off an air assault mission,(everything that we need for 5 days we carry in the rucks on our backs). the ones we have on in this picture are actually relatively empty for us. 3- snipers in ghillies

army4, these pictures of how we build our hide/surviellance sites. we stay in these holes or sites for up to 5 days, taking everything with us that need for that time.

army5, these are a desert hide site and its modifications. in essence it is simply a tarp with the locol sand and gravel glued to it so it blends in. they work so well that we have come very close to being run over by enemy tanks. on one particular sniper mission an enemy soldier actually stepped on me and kept right on going. 2- the dust trails are an enemy armored column moving across the desert in a V formation.

remember- one of my personal favorites. " HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY A COMRADE IN ARMS KNOWN ONLY BUT TO GOD)

I hope these pictures help you. if you have any questions or would like some different types of pics let me know. its easy to tell things to some one when you are writing. i dont talk about what i do in person, but here at my computer its just me and a keyboard. i will tell you what i am allowed, just ask.anything to help you out. you are fighting for a great cause, not only because i am a soldier, but also because there are too many widows, disabled veterans, and soldiers on welfare foodstamps and wic. i suppress a lot of my feelings about such things, but i will help you if i can.

- anonymous #1

Date: Wed Aug 11, 2004 3:37:35 PM US/Central

I think we have restored the exhibit to a reasonable level.

As I was putting it back together I was swarmed by people who wanted to know the artist.

Everybody loves it.

Kids love it.

Vets love it.

Moms Love it.

Also a family asked me point blank, can we have all these cards?

I asked them to only take a few so others could have postcards.

You still might want to pay a visit to the airport, just to make sure I put the thing together correctly. But as it stands now, emergency over.

-Matt