On the outside he is nothing special. I think he is now in his late 40's, perhaps he has cracked 50. He is a shorter guy with somewhat of a beard or goatee. He doesn't show the muscles, they are there tho. He doesn't show his soft heart to many either. Just a businesslike yet friendly attitude.
Eddie is one of those guys who takes God for granted. God speaks to his heart, Eddie listens and follows. He has been a part of several medical mission trips to different parts of the former Soviet Union. When rowdy service men on leave would show up, he would talk with them, A camaraderie exists no matter the flag. He would take the time to get to know the man behind the Red Star, and call him friend upon leaving. Guitar strings were a part of every trip, brought in for the local worship group, so they may continue to praise God.
I do remember him going to North Vietnam, and being arrested. Just read the story again last week on his face-book page. North Vietnam doesn't exist anymore, didn't then either. The Southern Government fell as the United States Military pulled out. Eddie answered Gods call to bring medicines to a hospital up north, and was arrested. All the while the Bibles he was smuggling into the country were somehow kept from prying eyes.
He rides in a helicopter as a flight paramedic. Has for many years. I know of times he was faithful in wearing hiking boots to work one day, Later that afternoon he was rappelling down a cliff to rescue a teenager who was injured. I have seen that cliff. It has to be more that 150 feet down the sheer sides to the water.
“How you doin Eddie? I ask when I see him in the Emergency Room.
“You know, I walk, I fall down, I get up and walk again. Eddie has a good life, but there are times when struggles get tough. Fear works its way in, and then he gets up and follows that still small voice in his heart which says, “This is the way, walk ye therein”
Eddie Hoffstrand, I am so proud that you are my friend. This Thanksgiving day I woke at 5am and began to think of you. It's 9:30 pm now, and I needed to take the time to write this down. You are a man who listens to and follows God. You are a Husband and Father. Your prayers and action have benefited far more than you will ever know.
Love ya man!
Chaplain Bob
PS: wanna buy another VCR from me?
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