This soldier is special for many reasons, but one very important reason; he is Hattie’s dad. Little Hattie (I posted her images in a previous post) was born just as her daddy was on leave here in California from his tour in Iraq. I had the true pleasure of spending a couple of hours with this new family, capturing them together before they had to say goodbye. Hattie’s dad has been gone now, for many months, but he is due home very soon and we will continue to pray for his safe return! Randy did a most touching thing to say thank you to me for capturing his lovely family. Check out the letter he sent Brian and I from Iraq. Now, I have got to say, he is one special guy and so very thoughtful. We are honored, Randy, truly. That flag will be given a place of honor in our home. Thank you!
His letter reads:
Dear Brian & Anna,
I want to thank you both so much for the support you have given to me and my family. I look at the pictures you took of my family every day and they take me away from this place. I know this isn’t much, but the flag is one of the most important things to me. I flew this flag in your honor over our TOC in Camp Adder, Iraq on 6 April, 2008.
These are pictures of me traveling around in Southern Iraq. The top picture is of me in Bucca. I’m about to leave on a British Merlin Helecopter. The bottom picture is me in Basrah.
My wife and I love the pictures. Stephanie looks at them everyday and I know they remind her of how wonderful it will be when I get home. She mentioned that you said she should give you a call if she needs anything. It is so comforting to know she is taken care of.
Thank you so much. I appreciate everything you have done for my family.
“Randy”
John R. Fawcett
And here is a picture that has always been the most poignent from their session because it is so “everyday” and something that he has missed to defend ME. I can’t say thank you enough and I look forward to hearing the cheers that you are home . . .
Anna, thank you for sharing this with us. It brought tears to my eyes. My thoughts and prayers are with Randy and his family as he makes his journey home.
That is so sweet! I have photographed the family of a soldier too and have received the nicest e-mail from him all the way from IRAQ. That is what makes our jobs so special! Keep up the great work!
What a wonderful letter Anna. You must have had quite an impact on this family, as they obviously have on you. That flag is a very thoughtful gift, I’m sure it will be a family treasure for you. I wish Randy a safe return to his family
That is so awesome – his letter and gift to you, but also the gift you were able to give them! I pray he returns safely home to his family very soon!
This is so touching and special. Thanks for sharing it on the blog!
Love the hands over the eyes shot..so divine!
I’ve already told you Anna, but this is just the most touching and kind thing. What an uplifting thing to receive. That doesn’t even begin to describe it, actually. Awesome.
Such a gift – and thank you to Randy, his family, and all who give so greatly to protect us.
Randy is my son, and I am so touched that you posted his letter, pictures, and the picture of Hattie and him on your site. You are all such very special people, and your work is truly amazing. Thank you.
Martha
[...] ago, when big sister was born. See Here. And then from the sweet gesture their daddy did for me. See Here. I was heart warmed, this time, to photograph this family, all together again, after Dad’s tour in [...]