by Aundrea Cline-Thomas
TULLAHOMA, Tenn.-A mid-state mother of five had a simple idea about how to honor veterans. Tina Shang went back to school and was told by a teacher that a blog is a good way to improve her writing. So she started one, committed to telling veteran's stories each day of the year. It's already taken off.
"I served three years in Iraq before I was injured. It was June 11th, 2004, the day that would change me forever," Shang recited from veteran Brandi Surplis' entry.
Shang is giving veterans a voice by allowing them to tell their own stories, in their own words on a blog she created called 365 Veterans.
"You don't have to lose a leg to be my hero," Shang said. "You served your country and I want to honor you."
For 365 days she hopes to share a veteran's story.
"I never thought about what I did. I guess it was a job I signed up to do," Surplis said.
It's a job, with Shang's help, Surplis can now share with the world.
"The next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital in Germany and being told I was the only survivor," Shang recited from Surplis' entry.
The stories have created a new community of those who can relate and those who cannot, all coming together to say thank you.
"It's very humbling when everyone is calling me a hero. I don't think that I'm a hero," Surplis said. "Honestly that's the first time in my life I felt appreciated for going to Iraq and serving in the Army. She's the first person to make me feel honored for serving in the Army."
What started as an extension of a classroom assignment and a way to develop new skills is now providing a new perspective to thousands.
"I thought I was fairly aware," Shang said. "I had no idea. It's really been an eye opener to for me."
It's an eye opener about the sacrifice that comes with serving this country.
So far the blog is averaging one thousand hits per month. In response to the positive feedback, Shang said she plans to take it beyond 365 stories. She's working on creating a web site where Vets can build a profile and have easy access to resources. She is looking for more stories to share. Veterans, those actively serving, or families who want to honor a loved one who has died in combat can submit their stories. Shang is willing to help write them.
http://365vets.wordpress.com/
email: 365vets@gmail.com
Email: acline-thomas@newschannel5.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/NC5AundreaCT
Twitter: Twitter.com/NC5_AundreaCT
