We will Carolyn, we will.

If only we all had the strength of courage of Carolyn and Keith

by David Miller

I have seen Keith and Carolyn Maupin many times over the years since their son was reported missing in Iraq. Today, the family was informed that Matt's remains have been identified.

Last year I saw Carolyn twice in the Loveland area, the first was at the Oasis Conference center on the night of the “Let Us Never Forget” scholarship fundraiser, where thousands of dollars was raised to provide money to families who have lost a loved one. The money in turn is used in local high schools to provide college assistance. I also saw Carolyn at the Buffalo Rings and Rings in Loveland last year, there again to help raise money for veteran's causes. Last May, a few days before Memorial Day, Keith was at Loveland High School helping to send off local motorcyclists to their annual pilgrimage to the “Roaring Thunder” rally at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Each time, it was Carolyn and Keith in a role of parent, and comforting whomever they talked to. I especially remember Carolyn at the oasis event as she worked the room that night greeting everyone she could, and you could see that it was Carolyn in role as mother, consoler, and comforter to families and soldiers who were in pain with worry about a loved one, or in fact grieving over a lost son, husband, father, or fellow soldier.

Carolyn was engaging, and in obliviously deep, emotional, and personal conversations, in a role of pastor to her flock.

The news tonight about Matt leaves me personally deeply saddened and somewhat numb, as I try to understand what Carolyn and Keith, the “parents” to us all - are now going through. Of course, I cannot even begin to imagine...

To each of them I would say however, that I owe your son a great deal of gratitude for his service and his life giving sacrifice, and I owe the two of you my heartfelt thanks for showing me just how graceful, peaceful, and loving people can be, when faced with truly trying and horrible circumstances.

Carolyn said today, “"Pray.  This is going to be very difficult, and stay by our side in support."

We will Carolyn, we will.

A message to the Maupins can be left at the Yellow Ribbon Support Center by following this link.