Sports and War: When a Game Has New Meaning, Part 2

**Another Fourth of July past, the war in Iraq remains status quo. Where do sports fit into the equation? The answers, in Jared Trexler's humble opinion, reside in this two-part series.**

By Jared Trexler
The Phanatic Magazine

Dear Jennifer,

Slow day here. A lot of down time -- looking at pictures of you, Noah and I.

How is my son? Looks big. Smile just like his mother's. I miss him...and you dearly.

I'm angry Jen. Angry at the situation, angry at the circumstances, angry that I can't watch my son grow up -- hold my bride at night.

This was supposed to be our honeymoon period. But believe me, this ain't no honeymoon. I mean, a couple of pro athletes came to visit us the other day. Talked about how important we are to this country's freedom, and I understand that.

But it seemed distant. Each word of praise rang hollow. I follow the sports world as much as I truly can, and let me tell you, it irks me when I hear some of the words coming from the game's supposed role models.

A fighter jet and death's doorstep -- that's war. Running into Shaq or guarding the pick-and-roll -- that's a game.

But they were here for an hour or two, took a couple photos, talked to several media people and off they went. Back to a life of luxury built on God given athletic ability.

Still think I can't jump baby? Maybe our financial future would look a lot better if I had continued to practice my jump shoot out of college. Well, if nothing else, our future would look somewhat clearer.

As these stars stood in front of us, trying to rationalize that they understood our plight, I remember back to the old sports days. Members of the Yankees dynasty put down their bats and picked up their guns during World War II.

No one was immune. People all shared the same mission even if their life's work was far different. Just think -- Mickey Mantle standing next to Joe the Barber. Sounds funny, but in theory it was true.

I could respect those athletes, take heed in their inspirational talks. Today, I just sat there.

If you asked me, I probably wouldn't remember much of what they said. There was a massive disconnect.

Anyway, sorry for the ramble. You know I do that when I'm bothered by something.

Things are getting pretty dangerous over here. Friends to my left and right die every day. I'm staying alert, understanding my surroundings at best as possible so I don't become another victim.

People say I'm a patriot because I fight for my country. What they don't understand is first and foremost, my thoughts aren't on success, but survival.

Survival for you, Noah -- my family.

So with that, another week ends. They all run together, hopefully making time go faster until I am deployed. I love Noah. I love you.

How'd the Phillies do this week?

Tom
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Jared Trexler can be reached at jtrexler@phanaticmag.com