Matthew P. Burchett

Navy Seaman Recruit Matthew P. Burchett, son of Shelly J. Castilleja of Blanco, Texas and Robert Burchett of Floresville, Texas, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Burchett completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations.” This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. “Battle Stations” is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ‘’Navy’’ flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor.

Burchett is a 2007 graduate of Blanco High School of Blanco, Texas.

Jason Goodwin

Jason Goodwin is a member of the 1st Platoon 4th Squad Alpha Team with the Colorado Army National Guard’s 220th Military Police Company of Denver, Colorado. The soldiers of this unit are currently stationed in Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the War on Terrorism. They are providing direct control over a Theater Internment Facility until February 2009.

Jason resides in Sharon Springs, Kansas, with his wife Heather and their two daughters, Chisum Annie (3) and Ellie (2). His parents are Jesse and Nina Goodwin of Blanco, Texas. Grandparents are Carolyn Goodwin of Brownwood, Texas, and Joann Hamilton of Corinth, Texas. His brother Cade Goodwin is from Stephenville, Texas. In-laws are Dewey and Cyndee Hoss of Sharon Springs, Kansas.

He has many other extended family and friends in the Blanco area who mean a great deal to him. Jason is proud to serve his country and would like to say thank you to those who have sent prayers and letters of support to him and his unit. It does make a positive impact and helps to increase morale for the soldiers during this stressful tour.

For family members and friends wanting to contact Jason, you may reach him at PFC Goodwin, Jason A. (1678), 22th MP CO (WXAOAA), 744 MP BN, APO AE 09342.