Michael Wern
Jeff, Kristen, and Rice Family,I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Fred, but I heard many wonderful stories about him and your family while serving with Jeff in the military. First, in 1982, during basic training where Jeff and I first became friends. We would try to pass the long hard days by sharing stories about home. Jeff, was very proud of his father and you could see and hear the love for his family, and his father, in the stories that he shared with me.And again, after September 11th 2001, when Jeff and I came together to serve in the war on terror overseas. Although we had not seen each other for over 20 years, Jeff and I picked up our friendship where we left off. We spent many days, weeks, and months sharing stores of family and life. Jeff would share stories of restoring cars and his love of his daughter and family with me…it was a great way to break the stress of being away from home and working and flying long hard days. I also loved sharing our stories about Kristen and her love of horses–since I had a daughter about the same age who had been asking me for a pony for longer then I can remember. Jeff, always kind of knew when it was time to take a break and maybe go share some stories over a beer, something that I miss even mow. Serving in a combat zone and being away from my wife and kids, it was great to have a friend like Jeff–it was like having a brother who was always there to watch my back and for me to watch his. I was, and I am proud to have served with a man like Jeff, but even more proud to say he is my friend. I am only sadden by the fact that I was not able to share how proud I was with his father, but in some way I hope by sharing it now it helps.My prayers are with you and your family always.Michael Wern102 Rescue Wing