I have not checked my E-mail lately, but today I did. I receieved an E-mail stating that AST3 Kirkendall is once again standing the duty. I loosely followed his story through his time of trouble. I thank you Brian for your bravery and endurance. I may have never met you in person, But I can only imagine how bad you wanted to get in the air. How bad you wanted to see your name on the duty schedule again. What you wouldn't give to be in the shop and be neck deep in maintainence. your victory over your struggle has witnesses it has helped. I look at your struggle and look at my life side by side. I realize how grateful I should be that I am allowed to come to work, That I am privelaged to be in the Coast Guard, And that I have been afforded the gift to stand duty and possibly be of service to another human being in need.

Brian you may never meet me, But you have changed my life for the better.

....So others may live!

Thats great news!

I and the rest of the guys in my shop had the privilege to visit Brian in the hospital while he was going through his battle. It was very inspirational and a great reminder of human determination and mans unlimited endurance (when truly tested). Brian, I (and many others) am proud to put on the same uniform as you do and also to be part of the same small fraternity that you belong to.