Corey Smathers died unexpectedly in Alaska a few days ago. His mother, Amy, was a childhood friend I had recently reconnected with on Facebook. Amy was always this sweet, happy petite little thing - and a breath of fresh air - so to know that she is suffering and that bubbly light of hers is dim.... well, that causes my heart to ache something terrible.
Tonight Corey Smathers, age 22, from Glouster and a soldier on active duty, was escorted home by the Patriot Guard plus his family and many, many fellow officers from our area. It was a haunting and beautiful evening... and one I will never forget.
