Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/wedding

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/21/2009


Question
My son is in 3rd FAST company, still training in Norfolk, VA. I am getting married on August 1st and really want him at the wedding, but he has been out training and hasn't been able to ask about getting leave. I am a single mom and my son is supposed to walk me down the aisle. Is there anyone I can call to see if he can be allowed to attend the wedding? I can't get ahold of him and I'm very upset by this. Thanks.

Answer
Kim,
Congratulations on your impending marriage.

You should be honored that your son is in the most elite of the FAST Companys.  His company consists of some of the most highly-trained, deadly, multi-weapon, marksmen in the military, as well as the nation's best dedicated military anti-terrorism force, all ready to respond at a moment's notice.

Of the 13 FAST companys only the 3rd is at an undivulged location.  Due to his company's highly classified mission, don't be sure he's where you think he is, even if he tells you.  I'm sure that if he CAN be released for your wedding he will do his best to make it.  Otherwise you'll just have to be content knowing his thoughts and prayers are with you.

I sleep better at night knowing men like your son are out there.
Best wishes,
Colonel H

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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