Sgt Grit Marine Forums

Hello my name is Terry Cooper I was the first Colorado mother to suffer the loss of a loved one in Iraqi Freedom, and became a Goldstar mom with the loss of my son Lcpl Thomas J Slocum. I could have closed the door on the media, and the public attention suddenly focused on my family, but instead I graciously opened my life to the outpouring of sympathy from the community grieving for a soldier, a comrade, a son, a friend, in a very public good-bye. I turned my attention to supporting the War on Iraq and those who are still serving, and continued to honor those who have paid the highest price. Since that date I have made every effort to reach out to the families of Colorado’s fallen, to let them know they are not alone, I understand their grief and to provide them with whatever support I could. I sent a sympathy card and a symbolic ornament that states, “United We Stand” is sent to each family along with a personal note and my phone number; so they could have someone to lean on should they need it. In most cases the families made contact, and through the connections we have created our own special family, and try to meet often for dinners and life’s celebrations, and offer a hand to hold on the hard days. I attended as many of the burials at Fort Logan for Coloradoans lost in this war as possible, as a show of solidarity. I have opened my life to the many Marines who have come to my home, and have shared their stories, but in the end, it is they that have been comforted and leave with a promise stay in touch with their “other” mom. I have been asked on numerous occasions to speak at a benefit, or attend as a guest at a Marine returning ceremony or give an interview to the local media regarding a variety of war issues. I rarely turned away from these extra demands on my time I see these as another way to keep the memory of my son alive. Here are some endeavors I have been involved in, to hopefully honor my son’s memory and show my support to the troops: Navy Marine Corps Relief Society Donation – The Thomas J. Slocum Memorial Fund donated funds received from the community. Over $8,000 was given to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society to help the families of soldiers whose loved ones are serving in our military away from home. Thomas J. Slocum Memorial Scholarship – Westwood College of Aviation – a scholarship to help students in financial need to further their education in aviation. To date, the scholarship has awarded $6,000 each to two selected individuals. War Studies by Regis University – Guest speaker – Regis University asked me and my husband to speak to students regarding my thoughts and feelings on the present war on terrorism and the high price of war as the mother of the first Colorado solider lost in Iraq. I volunteered my time and attention to help educate these students seeking answers. Chew, Commons, Slocum VFW Post 12009 of Conifer, Colorado – I was honored to be asked to give my permission in the creation of this chapter of the VFW that bears my son’s name as well as others lost in the war. I have helped raise funds and contributed financially to assist the chapter purchase a wheelchair for veterans wishing to attend meetings, events and meals and to purchase the chapter flag. Comforts of Home – I contacted the Comforts of Home Coordinator Tami William to ask if I could help in any way. I began with flyers in the Mile High Claims Service Center office, and then invited the Colorado Springs Service Center to join our efforts. This turned into a huge outpouring of donations from many of the Colorado Farmers employees, all for the benefit of soldiers stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. I freely gives money and volunteers my time each month to help pack up boxes, chase needed items, write a personal note, anything to help those far from home. My husband and I rode in a Comforts of Home Motorcycle Road Rally that helped to raise pledges and attention to this noteworthy cause. Colorado State House of Representatives Testimony - Families of the Fallen License Plates – I contacted Colorado House Representative Val Vigil after trying and failing to receive a Marine license plate for our motor trike. I saw this as a way for the families of the fallen to pay tribute to their sons/daughters, lost in times of war, and testified before the Colorado State House of Representatives to plead the case to the members. Unfortunately, the bill died on the floor, but I will return with other families to keep fighting on. American Legion Slocum Pos 201t, Thornton, Colorado – My son Thomas was honored in the renaming ceremony of the American Legion in Thornton. Dozens of motorcycle escorts arrived in my quite neighborhood to escort me and my husband Stan to the dedication. The American Legion provides support for military families who’s loved ones are serving military duty and for soldiers returning home to continue to contribute to the military though no longer on active duty. Healing Fields – September 11, 2004 – My husband Stan and I were asked to speak at the Healing Fields to pay tribute to those lost to us by terrorism. We also volunteered to assist in the set up over four thousand flags, each in memory of a victim lost on 9-11 and those soldiers lost to the war on terrorism since that day. Thornton Veterans Memorial Park – I volunteer my time to fund raise and assist in the creation of this newest city park in Thornton. I am currently a member of the board in public relations to get the word out about this new venture created to honor Colorado’s veterans. Operation Home Front Quilts – I made a generous donation to this cause so that each family of a fallen soldier could receive a hand made quilt dedicated to their loved one. Colorado Freedom Memorial – I have volunteered my time and co-chair a committee with the Lt.Governor. I have been involved in numerous balls, banquets, ceremonies, dinners all honoring vets and our fallen hero’s. I have been moved to tears and bursting in pride that I will never tire of them and will look for any way to honor our military and my son’s memory. Terry C

Terry, God bless you ma'am. It has been my honor, privelege and pleasure to "know" you through Grit's bullentin board since I first joined the board almost 2 years ago. And rest assured that Tommy will NEVER be forgotten, not in Colorado, not in the United States and especially not in the United States Marine Corps. I don't know if I could have done all you've done if I were in the same position. But all your efforts to make sure Tommy is remembered and honored and also the support you continue to show our troops is to be commended. Take care and God bless. Semper Fidelis, Chris

Terry, no words can express the gratitude I feel for what Tommy did for us and what you continue to do. You are a true warrior and an amazing woman. Tommy continues to shine in love and devotion you give to so many. Thank you for showing us the way. love Carol Wyoming Marine Mom

Terry, I am humbled by your words and your bravery. Lcpl Slocum will forever be remembered. May God bless you and your family.

and my Dear friend, you know how I feel also. It is my hope that this forum will take off and become an outstanding resource for our most honored and important members of our Marine Family. It is my hope that everyone here can lend some support to the causes and work you hold so dear. Holler if ya need some help with announcements or help on anything you are working on. Please let all of our Colorado Gold Star Mom's, as well as those outside the state, know that we are out here and stand ready to help and support in any way we can. I love ya hon.

Terry, one of the Greatest things I will ever rememeber will be meeting you and your wonderful husband in Brandon' basement. You Ma'am are a true testament to what makes our Country and our Corps so very great. We here in Colorado are so very lucky to have you w/ us... Thank you so very much! See you soon, Mom... (Please let me know who I need to "put a fire under" on the Marine Corps plates for your bike! I'm sure my local Rep. is wondering where I went...)

Terry, Thank you for all you have given and contiue to give. You honor us all!

Terry, Thank You Ma'am !

Thank for all your kind words, but I am a little selfish I do all this to keep Tommy alive and will continue to do so. I will update as it happens. I hope it will encourage others that there is so much out there to honor and help our troops for they all need our supported from here at the home front. Terry Cooper Goldstar Mom Colorado

Holidays were harder than I thought but made it through. 2006 is going to be very busy I seem to find more ways to hornor our troops and my son Tommy. So far I am involved in more fund raising for the Colorado Freedom Memorial and the Thornton Veterans Memorial Park and for some reason they want me to speak (sort of I just answer questions) at Regis College. Busy is best I keep my son memory alive and me sain. Will post again. Support our troops and all our Veterans Terry C

Ma'am, you just remember that if there is ANYTHING we can do for you and yours, do not hesitate to speak up. You and Tommy shall FOREVER be in our hearts, shall always have our love and thanks...and WE SHALL NEVER FORGET.