As a small child, we lived in Charleston, not far from where Jessica and her family live. My Grandparents had a small farm in Nicholas County, so I can relate to the description of Jessica, as a "West Virginia country girl."

That is why I feel a special bond to both Lori and Jessica, I think - having lived in Arizona and the having the strong ties I do, to West Virginia.

As most of us know, by now, Jessie and Lori became friends, two young women, who have sacrificed more than most of us will ever know.

As we celebrate and rejoice the fact that Jessica survived and is home with her family, our prayers remain with her - for the road ahead will be difficult for her. The horrors of war are a nightmare that remains with a soldier a long time....but she is a strong West Virginian woman, and her life is, I feel a gift to all of us. And, all of us, even though we have never met you, Jessica, are so very grateful for the the gift of your life....for you have something special to give to this world, but then again, I believe you always did.