10 years in Afghanistan: Long war, deep scars

10 years in Afghanistan: Long war, deep scars
BY SUSAN DEMAR LAFFERTY and MAUDLYNE IHEJIRIKA
Sun-Times Media October 6, 2011
The War on Terror in the Middle East began 10 years ago Friday in Afghanistan.

While it still rages on thousands of miles away, the most painful reminders for many on this grim anniversary are in their own neighborhoods.

In New Lenox, there’s a park and U.S. post office named after Jacob Lowell. In Evergreen Park, a street dedication later this month will honor Jared Stanker. In Midlothian, the historical society has uniforms that once belonged to Christopher Abeyta.

All were among the regional service members killed in tours of duty in Afghanistan.

There are others, like Andrew Meari of Plainfield, remembered also by the anguish in the hearts of loved ones.

“I would ask that as people reflect on the 10th anniversary, that they take a moment to think about those who are serving and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Deb Pyznarski, a Chicago Ridge military mom and co-founder of Southside Parents of Military Personnel.

Her son Bryan, 22, is in the Marines, currently serving stateside. She was traveling Thursday to visit him for his birthday, which coincides with the anniversary.
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