Spc Eric R. Hull

Dear Betty and Friends of Freedom Quilts,

My name is Missy Hull. I lost my husband Eric in Baghdad in August 03. I can’t tell you how much your caring thoughts and beautiful quilts have touched our lives. I had the pleasure of talking to Betty on the phone. Wow what an amazing woman and a great organization you all have built. I can’t even begin to thank you and tell you how much you all really mean to us. When I opened the box I was speechless, I think I cried from the time I opened the box until I sat down and looked at the beautiful work everyone did, just for us. I felt so special that my husband’s sacrifice was noticed and cared for in such a special way. The best part was seeing the smile on my daughter’s face when she knew that you made a quilt for her in memory of her daddy. The joy in her heart and the brightness of her eyes was enough to make me smile.

My husband Eric was 23; he was a Husband, Father, Chef and Soldier. He was killed in Iraq nearly 7 months ago. We would have celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary in October. We have two children, Mia 3 and Dominic l9 months. Eric was a very devoted husband and dad, his family meant the world to him.

When he was killed, he was on his way back from Baghdad Airport with rations for his fellow troops. His job was to pick up the rations and cook dinner for the troops. He was deployed 6 months before he was killed, 4 of which were spent in Iraq. I spoke with him by phone 3 hours before he was killed. He had gotten his boonie hat engraved with Missy, Mia and Dom and couldn’t wait to tell me.

His smile lit up a room and his sense of humor was seen by everyone around him. He was the sweetest most caring person you ever wanted to meet. You only had to meet him once to love him. I feel honored to have spent 6 years of my life with such a wonderful man. It’s been a very tough road for us, emotionally and physically.

Because of wonderful people like you we can go on and strive to keep Eric’s memory alive. My daughter took her blanket to bed with her, she was excited. I hope you know how much you touched our lives just by caring. Eric would be so honored to know that so many people took their time to care for his family. Your thoughtfulness and caring ways will never be forgotten. The quilts will always bring a sense of peace when we think of all the hearts involved in making them.

Thanks again, from a friend for life.
Love, Missy, Mia and Dominic Hull