A few days after Micheal was killed we got a call from Iraq.. I knew the number was from Iraq I had spent the last months waiting for that 1191 to show up on my phone. I had to ask 3 times for the young man’s name. He was obviously emotional, PFC Mark Harding was on the other end. I knew the name. Micheal had mentioned him often. He was one of the three amigos. Fagan, Harding and Phillips.. the morale team. Self appointed. We spoke for some time. Both of us cried together both of us searched for the answer to why that day. He became my son that day.
Mark was one of the first to come to our home. He came for New Years 2009. My son David didn’t want to meet any of the guys. But he and Mark hit it off. You see Mark was one of those people you just had to love. I remember sitting with Mark at Ihop eating breakfast and having a conversation no 19 yr old kid should be having. I remember thinking his heart was too caring for infantry. He had so much love.
I have videos of Mark goofing off with my son and the other guys. I have pictures of his beautiful smile. I have cried with this young man. Laughed with him and sat in silence with him. He would call me and tell me about where he was in life. He had gotten out of the Army and had some difficulty adjusting back to civilian life. Just like most of the guys do. Last time I talked to him he was working and happy. Moving forward and living again.
Saturday may 30th 2010 just 15 days after his 21st birthday Mark was removed from life support. He had survived combat in Iraq, survived the demons of coming home only to sub come to a sinus infection. His family made the most difficult decision any family has ever faced. In his death he has saved the life of 7 people through organ donations.
When news came it spread quickly among his Army brothers. No one wanted to believe it. Everyone was heartbroken. Mark was the youngest and they all were protective of him but they also respected him. His brothers rallied and began to gather their pictures to share with the family. Others volunteered to gather a proper Class A uniform for him to be buried in and drive 14 hours to make sure it was there in time. Mark was that loved and respected.
I have lost another son.. my heart aches. Mark touched my heart. I am trying to find comfort in knowing that he missed Micheal as much as I do and that they are together. Heaven has two very special angels.. both my sons.
Take Luck Harding.. I love you. Hug Pokey for me.. and save me a place at the campfire.
How can you not love that smile?
I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot begin to imagine the pain you are in right now. I can only hope that with time, that pain will start to fade and be replaced by all the good memories that you hold close to your heart.
Take Care
nancy
Beautiful story, thanks for sharing!
Mark was an awesome young man, heart of gold
Knottie, Our hearts are with you today, as always on learning of the passing of this fine young man. I intended to ride up there last night and do the PGR mision today, but couldn’t get out of here in time. One mission I am truely sorry I missed. Hugs to his Family, battle buds and friends…..
I always think that someone, having lost so much, should never have to face such pain again. I can’t even think to tell you how sorry I am, what pain you must be feeling.
I can tell you though, that I have no doubt that Mark knew you loved him and that love helped him deal with his own terrible feelings about Micheal’s loss.
The only other thing I can tell you is that in my religion, we believe everyone has a purpose in life and when they complete that task…God often calls them home. It is horrible and hard for those left behind…but sometimes it is easier when you view it this way. I heard a 17 year old sister explaining about her 19 year old soldier brother who had been killed…she said that she was so proud of him, that he has, in only 19 years, accomplished the task God had given him.
Mark had a task – perhaps it was to be Micheal’s friend and then, to help you after. I don’t know. I am so sorry. So much love, I send to you, my friend and sister.
Paula