This is from a friend of ours who got permission for us to publish…..in case anyone was wondering what the hell we’re doing this for.

“My name is LtCol Sarah Deal. I am currently writing to you from Iraq where I am serving my second tour. As a CH-53E pilot for the Marines, my job involves carrying wounded soldiers to aid, so I see first hand the need for the Wounded Warrior Project.

I have 3 young sons and a husband at home. Some days, a word from home or a video is what gets us all through the hard stuff. And knowing about events like Fight Gone Bad makes us feel like we’re not forgotten about out here. I thank you very much. There are so many kids putting their lives on the line out here. The wounded need to know that there is support for them and that there can be life
after injury.

You have a great cause and I appreciate that you are doing it. I am sorry I can’t be there to cheer you on in person, but we’ll all be thinking about you on Saturday, watching on our terrible internet service, and know that we are grateful for your service and support and you are helping to put a smile on our faces. I just celebrated my 40th birthday on the 15th, and I consider it a birthday gift from all of you to me and the guys.”

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Sarah Deal Burrow is the first female Marine helicopter pilot. She graduated from Kent State University with a pilot’s license and a degree in aerospace flight technology. After Officer Candidates School, Burrow wanted to fly. With no female pilot roles at the time, however, she specialized in Air Traffic Control instead.

Burrow’s desire to fly was fulfilled when women were permitted to fly combat aircraft in 1993. She trained at Naval Air Station Pensacola and earned her wings on April 21, 1995. Lieutenant Colonel Burrow piloted a CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopter that same year.

Lt Col Burrow’s determination to become an aviator led the way for future female Marine Corps pilots.

http://officer.marines.com/marine/winning_battles/marine_corps_history/sarah_deal_burrow