Yellow Ribbon Vision Gives Hope To Maupin's Supporters
Faithful Make Pilgrimage To Small Town's New Shrine
UNION TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- In Clermont County, where so many have prayed for the safe return of captive soldier Matt Maupin, some say they see an image of Maupin's face on a tree.
Specifically, some say the soldier's image is outlined on a yellow ribbon tied around the trunk of a tree. Others believe the image is that of Jesus Christ.
U.S. Army Spc. Keith M. Maupin, 20, of Batavia, Ohio, was reported killed June 29 by Arab television. The Army has not been able to confirm his death.
Ora Stewart took a photo of the tree that has sparked a pilgrimage to this place. Stewart says that he didn't see the face at first in the photo. Now that he has, he hopes that it gives Maupin's mother strength in Maupin's absence.
"If anything, it is something to keep her faith going. We are all praying for her and I know everyone I know is praying for Matt and all our troops," Stewart said. "But especially for Matt. Our hearts go out to the Maupins.
The outline of the face is rough. But it's clear enough for the faithful, some of whom say it's a sign that Maupin will return safely home.
"It's a sign of hope, that the Lord is actually watching over Matt," said Ben Hamilton, who says he saw the image.
Hamilton brought his children to see what he considers a divine inspiration.
"Once I stood back and looked, it gave me goose bumps because he's right there."
© 2004 by Channel Cincinnati