It's always good to hear from a fellow Army writer and editor. Thanks for pointing out the "blooper"-it's always helpful to get feedback on our magazine. I both wrote the story and took the photographs.

An upside-down bow isn't anything we would have noticed because none of us on staff have archery experience. I have a feeling the Operation Purple camp counselor who was providing the instruction isn't an archery expert either. The counselors had many other duties.

In any case, the counselor didn't correct his stance and Jeremy actually hit the target-almost every time he shot-and came very close to the center several times.

I'm sure it bothers you as an archery aficionado, but my hope is that readers will take away the overall message of the story: how courageous Army brats still manage to thrive and share their stories in this era of persistent conflict.

It was tough when I was growing up in the Army in the 1980s and 1990s, and it's more difficult now. I have nothing but admiration for these kids, especially kids like Jeremy who have both parents in the Army.

I'm not sure that it matters whether they're learning to hold bows upside down or not. What matters is that this is a week when they can be kids again. They don't have to worry whether mom or dad is coming home, or help take care of younger brothers and sisters, or try to understand why a parent acts or looks different. For those who attend Operation Purple's camp, specifically for kids whose parents were killed in combat, there is a reprieve from the constant sense of loss.

Thanks again for your feedback, and I'm glad you enjoy Soldiers magazine.

Very respectfully,A,A

Elizabeth M. Collins (formerly Lorge)
ARNEWS Soldiers Magazine
Defense Media Activity - Army