Widow Cries When Asked By Obama About Her Husband; President Offers Condolences, Handkerchief

As President Barack Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office, declaring an end to combat operations in Iraq, Janie Minjares clutched a handkerchief in her El Paso home.

When Obama spoke with her at Fort Bliss earlier in the day, she started crying when he asked about her husband, Gilbert Minjares Jr., who gave his life fighting in the Iraq War. The president gave her his handkerchief to wipe her tears as the memories of her husband came flowing back.

IT was a moment of gratitude and thanks that Obama then shared with the nation during his address from the Oval Office.

“like all Americans, I am awed by their sacrifice and by the sacrifices of their families,” Obama said during his speech.

The Minjares family were thankful for the president’s words and also that the end of combat operations has come in the Iraq War.

“You know I lost my son, it hurts, but i’m glad that a lot of these soldiers are coming back home,” Gilbert Minjares Sr. said.

Gilbert Minjares Jr. was a 31-year-old Navy Corpsman died in early 2007 when the helicopter he was riding in with Marines was shot down by enemy fire in Iraq.

The president’s words Tuesday night brought a sense of hope, words Gilbert Minjares Jr.’s mother said were long overdue.

“I’m happy but it is a little to late. I wish it was three-and-a-half years back or even before it started,” Rosa Minjares said.

Janie Minjares, said “it’s kind of a relief, but sad because my husband is not here.”

Pictures of the fallen sailor adorn their home. He remains ever present in their minds and their hearts.

“That’s how we remember him. we didn’t want to forget, and we don’t want the kids to forget,” Rosa Minjares said.