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BOISE – A family from Wausau, Wisconsin, 1600 miles from the home of Bowe Bergdahl, is rallying for his return.
“We don’t know him, and we don’t know the family, but we are proud Americans. And that is what we have in common with them,” said Brenda Weber.
Bowe Bergdahl, a 25-year-old Army sergeant from Hailey, was taken prisoner two and a half years ago in Afghanistan. He is the only known American prisoner of war currently being held.
Rick and Brenda Weber traveled all the way from Wausau to Russia to bring home their son, John. He became an American citizen three years ago.
“He pointed to the American flag, and he said he tasted freedom,” said Weber.
John’s first holiday on American soil was Veterans Day.
“From that moment on, he just grew in pride and patriotism. He has immersed himself into our culture and history,” said Weber.
Now, John and his family are making it their honorable obligation to raise awareness. They are circulating a petition to bring Bergdahl home, and it needs 30,000 signatures in order to present it to Congress.
“That way we will garner the national attention we feel with all the grace and dignity that we can in order to bring awareness that this soldier has to come home,” said Weber.
Back in Idaho, at the Capital City Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 63, thoughts of Bowe Bergdahl never stop.
“It’s first and foremost for us because we want to bring Bowe home,” said Boise Valley POW Senior Advisor, Lance Stephensen. He has been in recent contact with Bowe’s parents lending his support. “This is the kind of thing that really helps. It really does, and it’s amazing,” he said.
Since Bergdahl has been gone, yellow rubber bracelets made by Bowe's own grandmother hang on the wrists of 5,000 supporters.
“The bracelets mean all the difference in the world because if people don't see something to remind them, they forget,” said Stephensen.
In Wisconsin, the Weber family won’t forget.
“I am a mom, and Mrs. Bergdahl is a mom, and that is all the reason I needed. And my son for 12 years didn't grow up with freedom, and her son doesn't have it, and we want to try and do something about it,” said Weber.
The Weber’s petition has been signed in 13 different states, but they would like to see some Idaho signatures on it as well.
The deadline to submit it to Congress is March 27th.
The Webers are also planning a candle light vigil on March 30 in Wausau to honor Bergdahl and pray for his safe release.
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