Pfc. George Howell lost his life in Iraq, Legacy Lives On

A new life arrives for the Howell family

Pfc. George Howell lost his life in Iraq, Legacy Lives On

by Donna Teresa

When Pfc. George Howell lost his life in Riyadh, Iraq, on Dec. 21, 2007, his wife Kristen was expecting their new baby. Pfc. Howell was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery and would never have a chance to hold his new baby. I received a joyous surprise the other day, when his mother-in-law, Dana Hensley, sent an e-mail and photo letting me know of their special family news. On July 7, 2008, Pfc. Howell’s son, Keioni George Howell was born, 8 pounds, 3 ounces in Texas.

The family, as you can imagine, is very happy about their new arrival. But they are also bittersweet, as George was not able to experience the birth of his new son.

"He is beautiful and very special, a gift his daddy left us, and I wish his daddy was here to hold him and show him how much he loves him. Keioni means ‘John.’ Georgie picked it because he liked it, not because of the meaning. This baby also has his dad’s first name as his middle name. I want him to know what a good and brave man his daddy was."

While there is always joy with a birth, there is also the tragic fact that many children from military families have lost their fathers to war. Thankfully, many military families have a strong support unit with friends, family and organizations helping them get through these difficult times. The death of a family member affects all of us in different ways. For military families, their loss is a unique one that many civilians might never understand. However, showing continued compassion and support is welcome and very much needed, especially for the young children left behind. According to Dana Hensley, the sacrifices these families make is something that Americans will one day understand.

"These men and women are very special and they did the noblest of deeds by joining the service and supporting our freedom. Their families gave up more than others will ever know. The people who love them will be there to laugh and cry and feel all their pain and loss" says Hensley.

Here on the Central Coast, there will be a benefit for the Howell family on Aug. 31. The event will be coordinated by the local band Joshua’s Shadow and the Salinas Elks Lodge located on Airport Boulevard. It will be a special day of music, food and crafts and a motorcycle/car show from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost is $8 and children under age 12 are admitted free. Proceeds will benefit Pfc. Howell’s children Niya, Raiden and new baby Keioni. The public is welcome to attend, so come on out and join others in helping the Howell family.

Dana Hensley had a few words to share about her son-in-law. "I miss you Georgie, and I love you and you will always be in my heart. God take care of you till we meet again."

I would like to extend my congratulations to Kristen Howell and her family about the news of their new son. He’s a beautiful baby Kristen; I know he will bring you the joy and love that George brought to your life. If you believe in guardian angels, and I do, I have no doubt that there is one looking down on his family with a 10th Mountain Division uniform on and as proud as any new father would be. Keep a good watch on them Pfc. Howell and congratulations on your new son.

• Donna Teresa can be reached at [email protected].
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