Remembering A Special Friend; Cpl. Ernesto "Gooie" Gomez, USMC

Vietnam Navy Cross Recipient

Gooie, and his lovely wife Carleen, continued to serve our country by participating in a seven day Minuteman Civil Defense Corps mission near the city of Mission, Texas.  On the evening of their third day they retired to some  facilities provided by the Minuteman Headquarters where Gooie passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, October 23, 2007.

HOMELAND performed in San Antonio, Texas for the Wounded Warriors and National Convention of the young Marines, where Gooie was our guest and a guest of honor. Gooie was in his element that evening with those wounded warriors and as always, he made a major impression on all who got to meet him. God called Gooie to take "the point" for other Vietnam veterans and we will once again see Gooie at the greatest reunion of all. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carleen and the Gomez family. Semper Fidelis  

Gooie Gomez Warrior Bead Necklace

Everyone who knew Gooie knew him as a giver; not only was he willing to give his life for his country and fellow Marines in Vietnam, he continued giving until the day he passed away.

Each Christmas, Gooie and his wife Carleen would send "care packages" to the troops. Gooie told Carleen that he didn't want the troops not to have something coming from home like he didn't have in Vietnam. He and Carleen began making Warrior Bead necklaces to support and honor the troops. They are sure to become collectibles and make beautiful gifts for the troops, wives, daughters or anyone who wants to show their colors. 

If you would like to support the Gooie tradition, simply make a $10.00 donation to cover your choice of a Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan or Korea necklace. Price includes postage and handling. Email your order to medevac@windstream.net or mail check to:

Carleen Gomez, 170 Limestone Ridge North, Kerrville, TX 78028             

When we first met David Lane, founder of RAF, several years ago at a concert, we were highly impressed with his dedication to our armed forces and veterans. We have since performed at several events where David and his team are boosting morale and showing their appreciation. We want you to show yours by helping us support RAF.

RAF stands for Readiness and Family Support, Inc. a not-for-profit organization comprised of volunteer partners established to give back to those who give their all. RAF's Mission Goal is to promote the welfare and bolster morale of our armed forces personnel, their families and veterans.

RAF personally contributes and seek to raise funds in an effort to insure America's victory over terror abroad and here at home.

Proceeds go to assist personnel and the families of our men and women called upon to defend Freedom, America and Our Way of Life.

RAF gives away bottle water during military events with a special "thank you" message to our troops. To learn more: www.raf.org

Santa Greetings to Terrorists Everywhere!