Osage, IA- There's a different kind of battle being fought right here on American soil. It's the fight to keep life somewhat normal while their soldiers are serving overseas. We're learning more about the mission here at home.
Just a few months ago, the Mason City-based 1133rd shipped out to Iraq. The transportation company is proudly serving our country. But it's who they leave behind. They're the ones facing each day in their loved one's absence.
You've seen the images from Iraq. The tanks tackling the desert sands. The Iraqi people our soldiers are helping. The blazing sun and camouflage. It's a simpler look, but one that's just as important. We're covering the duty at home and those who serve as the "silent soldiers".
To say the days aren't a little chaotic is an understatement! But Tara Stangel appears to have it all under control. We caught up with Tara on a couple of good days. She admits being both mom and dad right now, isn't easy. 5-year old Talia, 3-year old Tucker and Tyson who's just under a year, take up all her time!
Tara Stangel says, "Honestly, you just do it! We have to do it. If they're being naughty or anything you just change it up!" And each day is a new adventure. That's because her husband Rob is off on an adventure of his own.
He's serving in Iraq with the 1133rd.
Little Talia says, "And he misses us, too. I hope he comes home again soon. He is coming home for my birthday."
Their only connection is a technological one. The computer is their lifeline to their husband and father. It's what's bridging the nine hour time difference.
When Rob gets a break from the day-to-day grind, he's making time for his three children and wife. Mom's got it under control.
There's the morning routine. Lunch time and play time. Dinnertime, bedtime and all the duties you don't see. There are bills to pay, refurbishing the victorian-era home and meeting with other military moms.
As a family, they deal together.
"Tucker will look at me. He says he misses his daddy. And Talia. They sometimes just need hugs."
And always, always on this mom and wife's mind. Her best friend serving overseas.
"I'm not going to sit here and feel sorry for myself. Because I just think then that every day would be horrible."
So they stay busy. Part of the military outreach includes projects and meetings with others who know what Tara. Finding ways of keeping Daddy around when he has the duty to our country.
"I like my husband home. I wasn't geared up for this in my life. But it's what I've been dealt. He gives 110-percent. So I can,too."
Continuing on the brave mission on the home front.
And praying for the day daddy and husband can make it back to Osage once again.
