Adjusting to life after serving in Iraq

Alaska Military Funeral Honors

2011-07-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

Please help spread the word about the services that are provided by the Alaska Army National Guard Honor Guard.

The Honor Guard provides the final tribute to veterans and retired members of the military throughout the state of Alaska.

Please look at their web site and share this information with anybody that is, was, or might have been related to the military.

Alaska ARNG Honor Guard

Honor Guard Facebook Page

Honor Guard Twitter Account

What ya gonna do PL?

2011-06-27T23:26:00.000-07:00

This video had me falling off of my chair in an Army NCO school. I wish they were harder on all leaders like they were when I first started this lifestyle in the early 90's but oh well.

The Army has changed but one thing will always remain, there is nothing more dangerous or funny then a new Lieutenant.

Enjoy!

2 Arrested in plot to attack Seattle MEPS station

2011-06-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

You tell me how I'm supposed to feel about this one. I enlisted in that building... both times.

Click here for the full story: http://bit.ly/mK3Djl

An excerpt from KiroTV.com

SEATTLE -- Two men have been arrested in a plot to use machine guns and grenades in an attack on a military processing station in Seattle that also houses a daycare, the U.S. Justice Department said Thursday.

Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif, also known as Joseph Anthony Davis, of Seattle, and Walli Mujahidh, also known as Frederick Domingue Jr., of Los Angeles, were arrested Wednesday night.

They made initial court appearances Thursday on terrorism and firearms charges. The defendants both only said "yes" when asked if they understood the charges. Their attorney asked for more time, and the judge set a new hearing for next Wednesday.

Special Report - Osama Bin Laden is DEAD!

2011-05-01T20:26:00.001-07:00

After all of this time, Osama Bin Laden is dead...... March 1st 2011
We won't stop chasing you if you attack us..............

What I'm doing in Iraq this time

2009-06-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

This is a short little clip of what I'm doing over here in Iraq for this tour. I am reposting this video from my aviation podcast located on iTunes under LetsFlyWa. Enjoy!

Tribute to 303rd Armor

2008-07-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

Video of 303rd Armor during the training and OIF II deployment

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Friedberg Germany

2008-04-10T00:09:00.000-07:00

I found some pictures of my old home while I was with the 1st Armor Division back in 1996 in Friedberg Germany.

I thought I'd share them with you because it was with out a doubt the best time of my life.

I hope you enjoy these photos.

Friedberg Germany 2005

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, VFW,Germany

Navy SEAL earns the Medal of Honor

2008-04-08T22:28:00.000-07:00

I don't know what to say that could thank Michael Monsoor enough for jumping on the grenade that day.

There aren't words for that type of loyalty and dedication to his fellow soldiers, only his brothers and sisters in arms can understand what makes a person do something that is sure to bring them harm so their friends can be saved.

Some people would die for their country, their mission or their beliefs but every true American soldier that I have met and served with would do it for the person next to them.

Some may call this fine man crazy or say that his death was a waste, I say his death serves as a reminder to all that American men and women can show courage and love for their brothers in arms.

We are a family when our families fail us, we are our only salvation when we are in need, we are our support system when it is no longer the "in" thing for other Americans to care about us, we are the American fighting force and we only need each other!

Honor this man and all the others like him who face tough challenges every day and prevail.

Remember that people like him brave the heat, bombs and bullets each day while you are enjoying the ball game or that nice cold beer.

It's people like this that make our country great!

Please read about him and pass this on to your friends and family. Read More

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, VFW

This soldier could use a hand

2008-04-03T22:51:00.000-07:00

I hate to ask for things for myself but I'm down to the wire on this one.

I have just found out that in a few short months I'll be back in the big sand box o' fun and would really like to complete my dream of becomming a private pilot before I go.

I have been working on this dream for 20 years and in Nov of '06 I started my training. I was stopped by weather, finances and then a major set of personal problems that still cause me problems today.

Please read this post on my other blog and if you can help me out I would be in your debt.

Please understand that I'm not begging for money but asking that a plane owner allow me to rent their airplane at a little lower rate than the nearest FBO, a CFI to give up some time in exchange for washing their plane or what ever needs to be done.

I don't want a hand out but I do need a little help to make this dream come true before I leave one more time.

Thank you,

Red4Golf

An Army SGT

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Low interest rate loan for pilots and veterans

2008-01-18T21:13:00.000-08:00

I know I've been gone a long time but I wanted to pass along a request to help a friend prepare her financially for her upcoming deployment to Iraq.

She is trying to pay off some high interest credit cards so I pointed her to a new service called Prosper to help her get a loan at a lower interest rate than her current credit card rate.

This service is like e-bay in a way, a lender signs up to invest in a loan or group of loans and submits a bid for a specific amount and a minimum interest rate. As more people bid the interest rate can fall but the lender will never go below their set interest rate. For more information on this service both potential lenders and borrowers should check out the Prosper web site.

Click on the link below to see her specific listing or to join my lending group for pilots and veterans.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, Prosper, money, loans

Memorial Day 2007

2007-05-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, VFW

Tribute to my Honor Guard

2007-03-31T20:02:00.000-07:00

Here is my first attempt at creating a video that highlights my Honor Guard team. Its a little rough and the timing isn't exactly perfect but I'll keep working on it.

This is how I currently make my living when I'm not out on my M1A1 tank and these are the soldiers that work their butts off for me in an attempt to give the honors that our veterans have earned.

You'll see some older people in the slide show, these are members of the American Legion, VFW, etc. that show up every day to provide honors for our fallen brothers and sisters. Some are up in their 80's and receive no pay for their duty.

I hope you enjoy this rough draft and please let me know what you think.

P.S. You won't see me because I'm taking the photos ;-)

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, VFW

A Medal of Honor winner in my family

2007-03-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

I was posting a little info about a family member on my other blog today and thought that you might be interested in reading a little about him as well.

My sister-in-law is the granddaughter of the famous Gregory "Pappy" Boyington.

For those of you that don't know who he was he lead the Black Sheep Squadron in the Pacific during WWII, was awarded the Medal of Honor, wrote a book called Baa-Baa Black sheep and had a TV show made about him and the squadron during the 70's.

Please jump on over and find out a little more about this war hero.

How veterans feel about protesters

2007-03-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

See how actual veterans feel about the Iraq war, anti-war protests and more!

Please watch the entire video and feel free to comment.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, watada, protest, anti-war

Haven't posted in a couple of weeks.

2007-02-24T17:03:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in awhile because I really haven't had much to say that is worth sharing.

The Watada protests that we all expected outside of Ft. Lewis were a joke with about 200 showing up the first day and by the second day there were as many anti-Watada folks mixed in the crowd.

We all got a really good laugh out of the free Watada sign next to the "Hang the Coward" sign...nobody seemed to notice.

I hope all is well you you out there and I'll resume my normal rants when my anger over the actions of Congress subsides enough for me to form complete thoughts again.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, watada, protest, anti-war

My first podcast.

2007-02-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is, my first podcast. Its more of an introduction and a welcome to this cast than anything but I do touch a little on LT. Watada and what I think about his court-martial.

I hope you enjoy it and will isten more in the future!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, watada, protest, anti-war

Pod Casts are comming soon!

2007-02-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

I have decided to enter the world of Pod Casting and thought I'd let you all know that starting next week I will be putting together a couple of shows to find out if anybody is interested in what I have to say.

I find that all of these thoughts that I have while driving to or from work slip out of my mind during the day or that life gets in the way of my posting at night.

Now I will record my thoughts for you to listen to and comment on, maybe even do a couple of interviews so all of my readers can hear what real soldiers think about their job and their time in Iraq.

If you have any suggestions for topics, please feel free to send me a comment and I'll try to fit it in.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

The trial of Ehren Watada begins tomorrow.

2007-02-04T11:03:00.000-08:00

This is not a hero, this is a coward!

This is a hero!

Click here for his full story.

Tomorrow Lt. Ehren Watada will stand before a court-martial panel at Ft. Lewis Washington.

There are many out there that think he is doing what is right by refusing to deploy to Iraq because of personal convictions and some of those people will show up to support him tomorrow.

As a soldier that has served a lot longer than this young man, I for one will be following this case to its end.

There are some things that those of you that have never served need to think about.

He joined after we invaded Iraq of his own free will, he failed to file his request to resign his commission before his unit was called up to deploy, his choice to become a soldier caused him to willingly give up some of his rights like the right to free speech, soldiers can choose the life but not choose when, where, or how they will be used.

I could never explain to those out there that have never lived the life of military service exactly how much our lives change after putting on that uniform but we all put the uniform by choice and not by force. We lose the right to make a lot of our own choices in life but most of us do that so YOU are protected to make your own.

I have known some soldiers that were big and bad during times of peace but as soon as real bullets were being shot at them they wanted to turn and run like this LT.

To me they are all cowards, I'm not a big bad super soldier but I did make a choice, a choice that takes me away from my family for long periods of time, a choice that puts me in the field in harsh conditions with little sleep and comfort, a choice that could get me killed someday.

In the end, it was my choice and those that want to back out on their decision before they have completed their duty are filthy, lazy, cowards. They are not an example to be held up for the public to honor but an example of selfishness, lack of character and should be shunned.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, watada, protest, anti-war

Washington State has passed a law to protect the families of dead soldiers.

2007-02-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

This is one of the few times that you will hear me agree with new laws coming out of Olympia Washington. This state has been known to lean way to the left and the law makers do as they please and not how the people vote.

Having said that, this new law protecting veterans families from protesters is on the mark. These families have been through enough and don't need people yelling and screaming at them while they say their last goodbye to a loved one.

Don't these protesters understand that the soldier doesn't choose how they are used? Don't they know that the family is suffering or is it that they just don't care?

Since returning from Iraq I have been a part of the Honor Guard that provides services at a National Cemetery and I for one will protect the family of any soldier, sailor, airman or marine that I am providing final honors for.

Here is the section of the law covering funerals:

13 (d)(i) Intentionally engages in fighting or in tumultuous conduct
14 or makes unreasonable noise, within five hundred feet of:
15 (A) The location where a funeral or burial is being performed;
16 (B) A funeral home during the viewing of a deceased person;
17 (C) A funeral procession, if the person described in this
18 subsection (1)(d) knows that the funeral procession is taking place; or
p. 1 HB 1168.PL
1 (D) A building in which a funeral or memorial service is being
2 conducted; and
3 (ii) Knows that the activity adversely affects the funeral, burial,
4 viewing, funeral procession, or memorial service.
5 (2) Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor.
6 NEW SECTION. Sec. 2. This act is necessary for the immediate
7 preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the
8 state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect
9 immediately.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

See the latest Saddam video - Warning Noose Damage -

2007-01-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

This is a graphic video of Saddam after his hanging.

Please preview this before your kids see it as it isn't a pretty sight but at least we know that he is dead!

Good luck to the Iraqi people, the devil is dead!

Watch the video.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

More troops to be sent to Iraq?

2007-01-07T19:47:00.000-08:00

I know I don't want to leave my home and family any time soon but if they want more troops in Iraq then I'll go in a heart beat. I want to see this job done right and not screwed up like Viet Nam was.

When I say that I mean by the one sided press that likes to show nothing but American blood and the folks in D.C. that want to get back at President Bush.

The only reason we will loose in Iraq is if we allow those outside of the military to dictate how the war is fought and when we come home.

Send us! Send 300,000 more. Allow us to grow our total force to the Cold War status and own every inch of Iraq if that is what it will take.......Just let us do our job!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

The Truth About Muhammad

2007-01-05T14:44:00.000-08:00

I heard this the author of this book on the radio today and thought that he had some good information about the prophet Muhammad and Islam.

Have any of you read it yet? If so please pass along your thoughts because it will be a week or so before I have the time to pick it up.

Robert SpencerThe truth about Muhammad

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Happy New Year!

2006-12-31T18:01:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish you all a Happy New Year and pass along the hope that 2007 is your best year yet!

Keep the faith and God bless!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Notice to all Soldiers, Saliors, Airmen and Marines in Iraq!

2006-12-31T12:08:00.000-08:00

I know that you can't post your stories from Iraq any more so I wish to extend this offer to you, e-mail me your thoughts and stories and I will repost them for you.

I will not use your name, rank or location unless you ask me to and I will only accept e-mails from a .mil account.

Your stories need to be told so that America knows what is actually going on over there.

E-mail me!!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Got a new book series for Christmas.

2006-12-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

I received War Stories by Oliver North for Chrstmas this year and wanted to reccomend it to all of you out there. The books come with a DVD of the show that the stories were featured on and gives some wonderful insight from warriors past.

If you treasure the experiance of those that have come before you then you will love these books.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, Books, WWII

See the Noose placed around Saddam's neck

2006-12-30T11:29:00.000-08:00

This video was filmed as Saddam was being lead to the gallows. The Iraqi government has taken control of internal issues and have removed a part of the evil that hs been hanging over their heads for years. Lets hope this will allow the to move on and deal with some of their ther pressing issues like security and national unity.

read more digg story

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,Saddam

Saddam is dead!

2006-12-29T20:31:00.000-08:00

The Iraqi government held the trial, they came to a verdict and handed out a punishment to the man that had ruled them by fear and torture for more than 30 years.

I wish the leaders of the new Iraq luck in the upcoming year as they have now laid their ghosts to rest. Their past in just that, their past and now they can move forward.

I have seen the progress with my own eyes and I wish them luck and am happy to see that they were able to turn the tables on the man that terrorized them for so many years.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,Saddam

America's Army 2.8 has been released!

2006-12-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

Come join in on the fun!

2.7 to 2.8 patch

2.8 Full install

There have been a few bug fixes as well as a map editor included in this version. Come play the best free game out there!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

I've opened a new web site about flying!

2006-12-25T17:25:00.000-08:00

I've opened a new site to talk about my adventures in aviation.
I invite all of you to stop on by and check out my progress with becomming a private pilot.
The site is currently under construction so if you have any ideas or would like to place an ad please let me know.

Check it out!

Tags:flying, airplanes, aviation, pilot

Merry Christmas to all!

2006-12-25T10:04:00.000-08:00

I know I've been away for awhile but I just wanted to take a moment to wish you all a Merry Christmas from my family to yours.
Please don't forget our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines serving far from their loved ones this year.
Please add them to your prayers and have a very Merry Christmas.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Iran begging America to leave Iraq.

2006-11-29T18:45:00.000-08:00

If he wants us out that bad then we must be on the right track.

Message of H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
President of the Islamic Republic of Iran
To the American People
In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
O, Almighty God, bestow upon humanity the perfect human being promised to all by You, and make us among his followers.
Noble Americans,
Were we not faced with the activities of the US administration in this part of the world and the negative ramifications of those activities on the daily lives of our peoples, coupled with the many wars and calamities caused by the US administration as well as the tragic consequences of US interference in other countries?
Were the American people not God-fearing, truth loving, and justice seeking, while the US administration actively conceals the truth and impedes any objective portrayal of current realities;
And if we did not share a common responsibility to promote and protect freedom and human dignity and integrity;
Then, there would have been little urgency to have a dialogue with you.

Click here to read the full letter

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Help raise money for wounded soldiers.

2006-11-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

You will all notice an ad in every posting asking that you make a donation. This donation will go to a project to provide voice controlled laptop computers to wounded soldiers.

The goal is to raise $45,000 by veterans day so please help us out. I am starting late on this project so I have chosen to add it to every listing so every visitor to this site can see and take part in this important quest.

We only have each other to fall back on in our times of need so please do what you can to help a fellow American warrior in their time of need.

This project will continue after veterans day has passed so if you don't see this before then you can still help out but please help us so we can meet our goal of $45,000 by November 10th.

Please donate through the link above. More information can be found at their web site by clicking here.

Project Valour-IT(Voice-Activated Laptops for OUR Injured Troops)

In memory of SFC William V. Ziegenfuss

"At that time I had no use of either hand. I know how humbling it is, how humiliating it feels. And I know how much better I felt, how amazingly more functional I felt, after Soldiers' Angels provided me with a laptop and a loyal reader provided me with the software. I can't wait to do the same, to give that feeling to another soldier at Walter Reed. "
--CPT Chuck Ziegenfuss, on the inspiration for Valour-IT

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

What solders think of John Kerry's "joke"

2006-11-02T21:27:00.000-08:00

Here it is, you know you all wanted to see the wonderful photo!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

A video about George Bush, John Kerry and iraq.

2006-10-31T20:35:00.000-08:00

I just had to pass this along to the rest of you.

Dennis Miller rocks!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

John Kerry voices his true feelings about the American Soldier once again.

2006-10-31T19:08:00.000-08:00

"You know, education, if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq."

I guess now we know how John Kerry really feels about members of the military. We are uneducated rocks that is we didn't have the military to turn to we'd be out on the street or flippin' burgers somewhere.

I want him to know that I have a degree in electrical engineering and had a good job in that field. I chose to serve my country in the armed forces because it is the right thing to do. Am I an officer or a clerk? No, I am a tanker and have chosen to be a combat soldier because I am good at it and to me its what being in the military is all about.

I for one demand an apology from Mr. Kerry and all of you out there that support the military or are members of the military need to speak out on this matter. I am tired of being called dumb, blind, a Nazi and so on and so on by our supposed leadership in this country.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Digg has banned this site.

2006-10-29T20:24:00.000-08:00

I'm not exactly sure how this has happened but the social networking site Digg has labeled this site as a media middle man. I suppose it could be because some of my posts do link to other stories outside of this weblog or it could be because my views appear to differ from most of the people that I've met while on Digg.

Every post comments on the story that I link to so I can't seem to understand how I'm just a middle man since I am trying to add to the story. If some posts are pushing the limits then fine, remove the link to that post but why ban the entire site? That is what makes me think that somebody just didn't like the subject that I am talking about.

To have a popular post on Digg it would appear that you must either be talking computers or anti war / anti bush. Without those subjects you don't get seen.

Help me to get reinstated to Digg so those of us in uniform that actually believe in what we are doing can post our views next to those that don't.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Photos from Iraq and various places that I've been.

2006-10-29T18:59:00.000-08:00

More photos will be added from time to time so make sure you stop by to check them out.

Click on a photo to go to my album on Flickr

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

The Tanker Brothers weblog is shutting down.

2006-10-29T10:15:00.000-08:00

Due to tighter restrictions on personal web pages, Tanker Brothers will be shutting down while both of the boys are in Iraq.

Its really a shame that the DOD is so scared of what soldiers are saying that they won't let us continue to talk about our time in the war.

I understand about OPSEC and the fact that the very people that defend the freedoms that you enjoy don't get to exercise them in many ways while in service but the stories that are being told are ones of success and pride in their jobs.

These are the stories that you don't read about in the paper or see on the news, the world that most of the deployed soldiers see is very different than what is shown to the average civilian on TV.

Please visit Tanker Brothers before their Veterans Day end date and show your support for these wonderful guys.

As a note to the Tanker Brothers from this tanker, don't forget that Tankers rule the battlefield and the next time a scout tells you different just park on his M1114 and see if he still feels like a big shot.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Following a dream now that I am home

2006-10-28T23:54:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to learn to fly and now I'm going to do it.

While I was in Iraq I had time to think of the things that I have always wanted to do so I figure its now time to start doing something about the list I've made. I plan on taking lessons through the Ft. Lewis flying club as soon as I can but it is quite expensive. Are there any instructors out there willing to donate a little time (wink,wink)?

I know that there are many other things that I need to focus on in my life but at the worst times of the deployment I couldn't shake the thought that I had failed to do many of the things that I have always wanted to do in life and that if I made it home in one piece I would start marking things off of the list that I had built.

If anybody out there has any tips or suggestions for me I'd love to hear from you.

Wish me luck!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Know the real facts about gun ownership before believing the hype that you hear.

2006-10-27T22:47:00.000-07:00

Many people are talking about taking away guns from lawful owners. This would include the guns that we use for hunting, target shooting and protection. These helpful and safety conscious people truly believe that guns are the problem and not the people that are using them for crimes. Take the guns away and the innocent, untrained non law enforcement types won't hurt themselves. I've even heard some say that if guns were harder to get then the suicide rate would drop....How do they figure? Please follow the "read more" link for some more information on the truth about gun ownership and related injures.

read more digg story

The real fear facing many soldiers in Iraq is much different than you think

2006-10-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

No soldier that has ever deployed to anywhere for any amount of time knows what they will find when thy return home. For many in Iraq, the fears of what is happening at home are much more stressful than what is happening to them on the battlefield. I speak from experience when I say that I can deal with bullets but whats going on at home?

read more digg story

Murphy's Laws of Combat

2006-10-14T23:38:00.000-07:00

•If the enemy is in range, so are you.

•Incoming fire has the right of way.

•Don't look conspicuous: it draws fire.

•The easy way is always mined.

•Try to look unimportant, they may be low on ammo.

•Professionals are predictable, it's the amateurs that are dangerous.

•The enemy invariably attacks on one of two occasions:

When you're ready for them.

When you're not ready for them.

•Teamwork is essential; it gives the enemy someone else to shoot at.

•If you can't remember, the claymore is pointed at you.

•If your attack is going well, you have walked into an ambush.

•Don't draw fire, it irritates the people around you.

•The only thing more accurate than incoming enemy fire is incoming friendly fire.

•When the pin is pulled, Mr. Grenade is not our friend.

•If it's stupid but works, it isn't stupid.

•When in doubt empty the magazine.

•Never share a fox hole with anyone braver than you.

•Anything you do can get you shot, including doing nothing.

•Make it too tough for the enemy to get in and you can't get out.

•Mines are equal opportunity weapons.

•A Purple Heart just proves that were you smart enough to think of a plan, stupid enough to try it, and lucky enough to survive.

•Don't ever be the first, don't ever be the last and don't ever volunteer to do anything.

•The quartermaster has only two sizes: too large and too small.

•Five second fuses only last three seconds.

•It is generally inadvisable to eject directly over the area you just bombed.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Differences between you and the American soldier.

2006-10-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a lot of anti war and anti soldier articles lately and to be quite honest, every word hurts me. We are not monsters that love to fight and kill, we serve because we believe it is the right thing to do. We do not make policy but we are required to carry it out. We can't just quit because we might not like what we are told to do, we just do it. I received the following thoughts in an e-mail the other day and saw it posted on a few military sites so I thought I would repost it here for you all to see, read and think about what we go through compared to those that have never served. This is just a short list, I could come up with many more examples of things that most people never have and never will experience. Please read this closely and pass it on to your friends. Feel free to post your comments if you feel differently than I do, I'd love to discuss it with you.

_________________________

Your alarm goes off, you hit the snooze and sleep for another 10 minutes.

He stays up for days on end.

_________________________

You take a warm shower to help you wake up.

He goes days or weeks without running water.

__________________________

You complain of a "headache", and call in sick.

He gets shot at as others are hit, and keeps moving forward.

__________________________

You put on your anti war/don't support the troops shirt, and go meet up with your friends.

He still fights for your right to wear that shirt.

__________________________

You make sure you're cell phone is in your pocket.

He clutches the cross hanging on his chain next to his dog tags.

__________________________

You talk trash about your "buddies" that aren't with you.

He knows he may not see some of his buddies again.

__________________________

You walk down the beach, staring at all the pretty girls.

He walks the streets, searching for insurgents and terrorists.

__________________________

You complain about how hot it is.

He wears his heavy gear, not daring to take off his helmet to wipe his brow.

__________________________

You go out to lunch, and complain because the restaurant got your order wrong.

He doesn't get to eat today.

_________________ _________

Your maid makes your bed and washes your clothes.

He wears the same things for weeks, but makes sure his weapons are clean.

__________________________

You go to the mall and get your hair redone.

He doesn't have time to brush his teeth today.

__________________________

You're angry because your class ran 5 minutes over.

He's told he will be held over an extra 2 months.

__________________________

You call your girlfriend and set a date for tonight.

He waits for the mail to see if there is a letter from home.

__________________________

You hug and kiss your girlfriend, like you do everyday.

He holds his letter close and smells his love's perfume.

__________________________

You roll your eyes as a baby cries.

He gets a letter with pictures of his new child, and wonders if they'll ever meet

__________________________

You criticize your government, and say that war never solves anything.

He sees the innocent tortured and killed by their own people and remembers why he is fighting.

__________________________

You hear the jokes about the war, and make fun of men like him.

He hears the gunfire, bombs and screams of the wounded.

__________________________

You see only what the media wants you to see.

He sees the broken bodies lying around him.

__________________________

You are asked to go to the store by your parents. You don't.

He does exactly what he is told.

__________________________

You stay at home and watch TV.

He takes whatever time he is given to call, write home, sleep, and eat.

__________________________

You crawl into your soft bed, with down pillows, and get comfortable.

He crawls under a tank for shade and a 5 minute nap, only to be woken by gunfire.

__________________________

You sit there and judge him, saying the world is probably a worse place because of men like him.

If only there were more men like him!

If you support your troops, re-send this to everyone you know,If it gets to another veteran who hasn't received it yet, it will bring back memories.

Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you,Jesus Christ and the American G. I..

One died for your soul, the other for your freedom

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Operation Support Our Troops need your help!

2006-10-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

Operation Support Our Troops is running a fund drive until 5pm pacific to raise enough money for postage to ship care packages to soldiers deployed overseas this Christmas. 100% of your donations go to postage costs. Please help to send a gift to our deployed soldiers.

read more | digg story

North Korea tests a nuke!

2006-10-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Looks like things are heating up. I guess we had all better keep an eye on the little man across the pond.
This guy is thumbing his nose at the world, this isn't the way to make friends and advance your country.
I feel bad thing are coming our way in the near future. Soldiers, dust off your cold weather gear!

read more digg story

Technorati Tags : War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Restored ME262 takes to the air

2006-10-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

Watch this video of a restored ME262 flying at the Berlin air show Its too bad that this plane was built by the Nazis. I know, I know, this isn't about Iraq but it is a cool piece of history.

Follow the link below to see the video.

read more digg story

Understanding what an Iraqi insurgent really is.

2006-10-07T21:42:00.000-07:00

Mercenary - Definition from the Geneva Convention

A mercenary is any person who is specially recruited in order to fight in an armed conflict, who takes a direct part in the hostilities, who is motivated by money and is promised substantially higher pay than that paid to other combatants of similar rank, who is not a national of one of the countries involved in the conflict nor a resident of a territory controlled by any of the parties, is not a member of the armed forces of any of the parties, and who has not been sent by another country on official duty as a member of its armed forces. (Protocol I, Art. 47)A mercenary does not have the right to be a combatant or a prisoner of war. (Protocol I, Art. 37)

Just something to think about the next time you hear shouts for protection for prisoners from Iraq.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Supporting the Troops

2006-10-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

The following entry is so you all can see the type of people that I run in to face to face every day in the seattle area. Read what this guy has to say and please let him know what you think!
Please follow the link at the bottom.

"The military destroys our freedoms and should not be supported. Those who
believe we are free because of past wars have serious deficiencies in logic
(probably due to govt education). Should we ever support the troops? Laurence
Vance explains a couple times when the troops should be supported."

Click here to read more of his view of soldiers

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Mark Foley isn't the only offender in the Government!

2006-10-07T16:20:00.000-07:00

I just thought that we should give equal time to both sides of the Washington sex scandal subject.

I don't defend this man and I think that he should be locked away for a very long time but I also disagree that the speaker of the house should step down for not taking further actions against Rep. Foley until after we find out how much he knew about this matter and for how long he knew. Normally I would stay out of things like this but I am angry about the way that this is being handled. I think that the republicans are doing the right thing by not circling the wagons around this piece of filth and I just wish that the democrats would have done the same with some of their folks in previous years.

Here are a couple of examples:

Mel Reynolds - Convicted of 12 counts of sexual assault on a 12 year old and was pardoned by Pres. Clinton

Barney Frank - Had a brothel in his residence, only 2 democrats voted for censure.

Gerry Studds - Censured for a relationship with an underage male assistant....served 6 more terms.

Teddy Kennedy - Do I really need to go in to this one?

If this guy was a democrat they would say that the attacks against him were cruel and that his personal life should be private.

WAKE UP PEOPLE!

Protections of the Constitution.

2006-10-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

Since when does an illegal alien deserve the same protections that an American has under the Constitution?

Why are we trying to protect non uniformed enemy combatants with these same basic rights?

Why do we issue a drivers license to a foreign national without proof of being here on a current visa and then not mark it as temporary?

Why are we not checking to see if a person registering to vote in this country is actually here legally and trying to become an American?

I guess that my grandparents wasted their time becoming Americans back in the 20's, if they came over now they could still get a public education for their kids, welfare for themselves, vote, get free health care at the cost of the tax payers and live like the rest of us with no fear of being deported.

Why are we so eager to allow law breakers to get away with this?

Why?

Democrat Party supports vets...but from which country?

2006-10-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

The Democratic National Committee website has a page called Veterans and Military Families where they purport to care about the welfare of US troops. Unfortunately they couldn't even find a picture of a US soldier to post on the page... the uniform in the DNC photo... is Canadian!

read more | digg story

The Patton Museum at the home of Cavalry and Armor.

2006-10-07T13:59:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken at the Patton Museum located at Ft. Knox. This museum covers the history of armor from its beginning to present day and a large amount of information available for you check out.

Check out this link for information on the museum

http://www.generalpatton.org/

General info about Ft. Knox

http://www.knox.army.mil/

Every military member should know this travel agency

https://www.satovacations.com/

View more of my photos over at Flickr.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

The Warrior Ethos

2006-10-07T04:40:00.000-07:00

I am an American Soldier.
I am a Warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

The next generation is off to the Army!

2006-09-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

Today I watched my nephiew graduate from basic at Ft. Knox.

He was a member of Cco. 1-46 IN and is shipping out to Fort Huachua in Arizona.

Please wish him luck and keep him in your prayers.

I know I couldn't be a prouder uncle.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Download America's Army 2.7: Overmatch!

2006-09-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

The latest version of America's Army has been released.

Download it and play!

Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

More thoughts on Islam, the religion of peace.

2006-09-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

I have been told that I am mistaken about Islam not being a peaceful religion. First let me say that I do know more than a few Muslims and I don't have anything against their religion, now, having said that I must add that I have never seen a Christian strap a bomb to their body and run at a military convoy screaming "God is great".

I have never seen Jews in rolling street riots because the Muslim leaders of Iran said that Israel should be wiped off of the face of the earth.

What I have seen are a large group of people that will kill themselves, children and women in the name of their god. I've heard the speeches from Muslim leaders about a few words spoken by a catholic pope based out of Italy that was born in Germany and by some magic connection America gets the blame.

I really hope that Islam is a religion of peace and that these crazy people are the minority but I warn all Muslims that if you don't put a stop to their crazy ranting and violence, the world won't care if the peaceful Muslims are the majority, it will appear that your religion is lost to these fanatics. I only hope that it isn't too late for you.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Is Islam the religion of peace?

2006-09-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

Sure they are!!

How could you even ask that question?

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Soon it will be September 11th.....9/11 five years later.

2006-09-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

Its been five years since that tragic day and things have taken a turn for the worse. I'm not talking about the war in Iraq or politics, I'm talking about that fact that most people seem to have forgotten about what has happened or who caused it. It appears that here in Washington state the library system in one of our counties wants to remember this day by not talking about what actually happend, instead thet will speak of the experiances of immagrants during the turn of the centuary. That would be fine in itself but they advertise this as a way to remember the events of 9/11.

I guess its ok to remember this day as long as you forget the actual details of what happened.

I want people to remember exactly what happened and who did it! It wasn't us!!

It was a group of cowards that hide behind women and children because they know that they can't take us on one on one.

They kill women and children because its easy!

The people killed on 9/11 had nothing to do with them, they were not soldiers or diplomats, they were mothers, fathers and husbands.

I am angry about what happend five years ago and you should be too! We should post the pictures of the hijackers on billboards so everybody remembers who attacked us and we need to educate our children properly on this subject.

I will continue this topic more in the next few days so please share your thoughts with me and my readers.

Posts that contain 9/11 per day for the last 30 days.

Get your own chart!

Path to 9/11

2006-09-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Its my understanding that the Clinton camp doesn't like how they have been shown in the mini-series called Path to 9/11.
I have heard that their broadcast license has been mentioned in a request to change the movie to show the former leaders in a better light.

I hope that ABC has the guts to show it as they have filmed it. Hollywood always leans so far to the left that I doubt anything was meant to support President Bush so I would venture to guess that somebody is afraid of the truth making them look bad.

If this shows Bush in a bad light then you wouldn't hear a peep from the left......This is getting childish, run the country, worry about doing what is right and stop bashing each other all of the time.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

This soldier speaks out against war!

2006-06-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Remember that war never solved anything except:

Slavery

Nazism

and

Fascism

Just my thoughts on that.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Heat injuries are easily prevented.

2006-06-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

I just had to repost this from the Army web site. This is good info for everybody out there and not just soldiers. Anybody that does anything outdoors at ANY time of the year needs to be aware of the symptoms and dangers of dehydration.

Heat injuries easily prevented

By J.T. Coleman

The human body needs water to maintain proper blood volume, which helps the body to regulate heat and perspire, according to the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine.

Courtesy photo

FORT RUCKER, Ala. (Army News Service, June 16, 2006) – Taking a drink of water when thirsty may be too little, too late in some cases.

“You may already be 1-2 percent dehydrated at this stage, which could result in impaired performance, coordination and concentration,” said Dr. John Campbell, U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center Command Surgeon. “Coffee, tea, juice and sodas are not substitutes for water. In fact, some of these are diuretics and can cause you to lose more body fluids.”

More than 1,700 heat injuries occurred Army-wide in FY05 according to Brig. Gen. Michael B. Cates, commander of the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine. Of those injuries, 258 people suffered from heat stroke and 1,467 suffered from heat exhaustion.

“Steps could have been taken to reduce these injuries,” said Campbell.

Staying hydrated is critical because it helps maintain proper blood volume, which allows the body to perspire and regulate heat, according to the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine Web site.

According to Army Technical Bulletin MED507, titled Heat Stress Control and Heat Casualty Management, people performing routine activities should drink six to eight quarts of water a day. People in hot environments, or who perform strenuous activities, should increase to between nine to 12 quarts.

“Heat injuries can be preventable,” said Campbell. “Leaders, supervisors and Soldiers must keep an eye on each other and look for the early warning signs.”

Early warning signs of heat stress include dizziness, headache, nausea, unsteady walk, weakness or fatigue, and muscle cramps.

USACHPPM cautions that over-hydration, or water intoxication, can also be harmful. Some of the symptoms include confusion, weakness and vomiting. Individuals who exhibit these symptoms but are still eating, drinking and urinating should seek emergency treatment.

Heat injury prevention is a command, leadership and personal responsibility. Proper use of Composite Risk Management will help reduce the likelihood of heat injuries.

“Heat injuries and illness pose a serious threat to our Army’s force – and a loss of one of our Army team is always deeply felt,” Campbell said. “Soldiers and civilians are deployed in some of the hottest areas in the world. We want everyone to stay in the fight and continue to Own the Edge.”

Additional resources:

USACRC https://www.crc.army.mil

USACHPPM chppm-www.apgea.army.mil/heat

AR 40-5 Preventive Medicine dated 22 July, 2005 www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r40_5.pdf

TB MED 507 Heat Stress Control and Heat Casualty Management dated 1985 www.army.mil/usapa/med/DR_pubs/dr_a/pdf/tbmed507.pdf

FM 21-20 Physical Fitness Training dated 1998

https://akocomm.us.army.mil/usapa/doctrine/DR_pubs/dr_aa/pdf/fm21_20.pdf

(Editor's note: J.T. Coleman writes for the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center.)

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans,

Old news but good news, Zarqawi is dead!

2006-06-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Click for Photo

BAGHDAD (Army News Service, June 9, 2006) – The death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi was reason to celebrate and reason for caution, Maj. Gen. William B. Caldwell IV, spokesman for Multi–National Force – Iraq, said yesterday.

“Although Zarqawi's capture is reason to rejoice, we must be cautious not to be overly optimistic, as one man's life does not signify an end to an insurgency,” the general told reporters at a Thursday afternoon press conference in Baghdad.

“Iraqis can rejoice today. They have earned it with their blood, their sweat and their tears,” said Caldwell. “Tomorrow we must continue to march forward. The march forward towards an Iraq that is free, that is for all, that exemplifies unity, prosperity and security.”

Zarqawi, the terrorist leader of al-Qaida in Iraq, and five others were killed Wednesday morning by a U.S. Air Force air strike north of Baqouba. Zarqawi and one of his key lieutenants, spiritual advisor Sheik Abd-Al-Rahman, were in a house when F-16 fighter jets dropped two 500-pound bombs on it.

The strike was a product of intelligence gathered from local sources and from Zarqawi’s network, Caldwell said.

Caldwell would not go into details of the intelligence gathering. He did say the intelligence was gathered with the help of coalition partners, the Iraqi government and neighboring governments.

After the airstrike, Iraqi police moved to the house and secured the area. Coalition forces identified the body of Zarqawi through facial recognition and fingerprinting.

Intelligence gathered at the site of the house where Zarqawi was killed led to 17 different operations, Caldwell said.

News of the terrorist’s death spawned joy among Iraqi and coalition leaders.

"Today Zarqawi has been terminated," Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said at a press conference Thursday. "Every time a Zarqawi appears we will kill him. … We will continue confronting whoever follows his path. It is an open war between us."

Coalition forces “delivered justice to the most wanted terrorist in Iraq,” U.S. President George W. Bush said in Washington.

“Now Zarqawi has met his end, and this violent man will never murder again. Iraqis can be justly proud of their new government and its early steps to improve their security. And Americans can be enormously proud of the men and women of our armed forces, who worked tirelessly with their Iraqi counterparts to track down this brutal terrorist and put him out of business,” the president added.

In London, British Prime Minister Tony Blair called al-Zarqawi's death "a very important moment in Iraq. A blow for al-Qaida in Iraq is a blow for al-Qaida everywhere."

(Editor's note: From the Multi–National Force – Iraq Web site at www.mnf-iraq.com.)

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, Memorial Day

Let us never forget!

2006-05-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

Let us never forget!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, Memorial Day

Why are you marching son?

2006-05-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Listen to the question raised by a true American, how would you answer?

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Peoples true feelings about soldiers

2006-05-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more true and shameful than the following quote:

For God and the soldier we adore, In time of danger, not before!The danger passed, and all things righted, God is forgotten and the soldier slighted." - Rudyard Kipling

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Remember what Memorial Day is for........Please

2006-05-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all enjoy your time off on what for most is a three day weekend. I do have this one request for all of you out there, please remember what this time off is all about. Most of you will go camping or to a fun vacation spot with your families and not even give a second thought to why you have the time off.

I ask that you remember the soldiers that never shared any more time with their loved ones, never played with their kids again, never grew old with their wife or husband.

I don't care if you support the current war in Iraq or if you have supported the reason we fought at any time in our history because to the soldier, politics means very little during a time of conflict.

Soldiers go where the leaders of our country point us, we have a job to do and our feelings on the issue at hand don't matter.

We only know that we must do our job even if it means we'll never see our home again. We only know that the person to our right and our left are counting on us to do our job so that they may live to see tomorrow and that is all we ask in return.

One of my duties since returning from Iraq is as a team leader providing the final honors for a fallen soldier and their families. Most of the services that we conduct are for WWII and Korean vets but we have had some soldiers from Iraq pass through the gates of the National Cemetary where I am stationed.

There is nothing worse than the thought of people protesting against these honorable soldiers during the last moments that their families can be near them. I have been lucky not to have run in to any protestors and I beg you all from the bottom of my heart, PLEASE keep your protests away from those that had no choice in the matter. Keep it away from the easy targets that crying family members make. Let them have their time, they have earned it.

This Monday there will be services honoring those that have passed during times of war, please go and support these honorable soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines. If your politics don't agree with when or why you think they died leave that at home and go to support the people that are there to protect you, to offer your freedom to you and that allow you to stay with your families in your nice soft bed while they are alone, cold, hungry and scared.

Agree with why we fight or not, like us or not I don't care..........Just please don't forget us.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Illegal immigrants take to the streets!

2006-05-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

If people want to have the rights granted to Americans shouldn't they want to become Americans?
If they want to become Americans, do they really think it is wise to start out by breaking not only our law but also our sovereignty by sneaking across our borders?
If our government bows to these law breakers then why should I follow any of our laws?
Why should I, a soldier that has earned every right granted to Americans, follow laws that don't mean very much?
What do you think would happen if a large group of Americans marched across the Mexican border waving American flags, I bet they would shoot at us and try to send us home!
I heard one protest "leader" today that said if the people that had died sneaking across the border were animals, Americans would be screaming for a fix to the problem but because they are Mexican, nobody cares. To that I say, if you were trying to get in to this country at a border crossing you wouldn't need to worry about staying alive!

Technorati Tags : Immigration, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

More reasons to stop illegal immigrants.

2006-04-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

I found this while surfing on BlogMad today and it proves my point on border security. Head on over to Part-Time Pundit to read the full story with good stats to back it up.

"Facts are a funny thing. They are conveniently forgotten if they don't uphold one's point-of-view, and they're easily overlooked if they are randomly scattered about. But when solid facts are brought together in one place, the pattern is difficult to ignore. The facts I'm about to provide below are just such a case. People may be able to overlook a single fact, but the weight of their significance cannot be denied when they come together in one place. That is the purpose of this week's Blogburst - to look at some hard facts."

Technorati Tags : Immigration, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

What going to war has done to me.

2006-04-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

Going to Iraq had a major impact on my life. While war is a nasty and terrible thing, it has opened my eyes to many things and I am grateful for that experience.
During my time in Iraq I felt that I was actually doing something important and that my actions made an impact on everybody around me.
My fellow soldiers looked to me for guidance and at times protection and the people in the villages that we helped looked to us for help building their new nation.
I will never be the same person again and for that I am grateful.
There were times when you didn't know if you'd see tomorrow and I wasn't even in the worst of it. Rockets would come in while you were in the porta-john and shake the plastic walls that gave no protection from fragments....what a way to die! I spent my time on convoy duty and civil affairs missions and from time to time rockets and mortars would fly over your head or we find that we missed getting caught in an ambush by seconds.
After all of this I haven't become addicted to drugs, I don't drink more than a beer a week, I'm not afraid of going outside and I have never hit my wife but I have changed.
I know that it could all come to an end at any second so I'd better make every second that I have count. I love my family more than I ever thought I could, I know I can do anything that I put my mind to, I watch what happens around me and try to help make things better when I can.
There will be a time when I must leave my home and return to combat, after all I did pick a combat related job and not a nice office chair like some, but I will do it with my head held high knowing that no matter what anybody else thinks, the person to my left or right knows that I can do my job well and that they can count on me no matter what.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Illegal Immigration must be dealt with!

2006-04-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution and protect this country from ALL enemies both foreign and domestic.

One of the things that threatens the American way of life is not immigrants that come here to be Americans and live the American way of life, its those that sneak across the border, don't care to learn the language and don't care about being an American.

These people come from many different countries and while most are good hard working people, there are some that would wish to do us harm. Good or bad doesn't really mean very much when you look at the fact that they broke the law just by coming here the way that they did. Should we reward these people just because they have been here awhile? Should we show the world that as long as you make it here we will take care of you even though you show a disregard for our laws by sneaking across the border?

If you want to come to my country the proper way like my family and many of my friends did, I say Welcome to my country!

Its time that Americans put our money where our mouth is and demand that something gets done before we suffer a similar fate as Rome did.

Don't know what I mean by that? Maybe you should look it up.

We are starting to lose our national identity and that will always lead to a countries downfall.

Technorati Tags : Immigration, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

JVERITAS - TRANSLATING THE IRAQ DOCUMENTS: March 2003 Top Secret Memo: TRANSFER OF SPECIAL AMMUNITION (POTENTIAL CHEMICAL WEAPONS) Translation

2006-04-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

Below you'll find a link to what I believe to be a very important web site. This blog is run by a man born in Jordan that has become an American and loves his country. He has taken his own personal time and knowledge of Arabic and combined that with the captured documents from Iraq that have been released to the public. Do I know this man? No, I have heard his story on a local radio program and believe in what he is doing. While most natural born Americans sit on their couches watching the news and cussing out their country, this man is trying to lend a helping hand.

I will continue to post portions of his translations and links to the full text as well as links to the source documents as they are published.

Document ISGP-2003-0001498 ISGP-2003-0001498 contains a 9 pages TOP SECRET memo (pages 87-96 in the pdf document) dated March 16 2003 that talks about transferring “SPECIAL AMMUNITION” from one ammunition depot in Najaf to other ammunition depots near Baghdad. As we know by now the term SPECIAL AMMUNITION was used by Saddam Regime to designate CHEMICAL WEAPONS as another translated document has already shown. For example in document CMPC 2004-002219 where Saddam regime decided to use “CHEMICAL WEAPONS against the Kurds” they used the term “SPECIAL AMMUNITION” for chemical weapon http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1601810/posts . What is also interesting is that these “SPECIAL AMMUNITION” were listed as 122 mm, 130 mm, and 155 mm caliber shells which are not by itself SPECIAL unless it contain CHEMICAL WEAPONS. In fact the Iraqi have always used 122 mm, 130 mm, and 155 mm caliber shell as a main delivery tool for Chemical Weapons Agents by filling these type of shells with Nerve Gas, Sarin, Racin, Mustard gas and other Chemical Agents.

Beginning of partial translation of Pages 85-96 in document ISGP-2003-0001498

In the Name of God the Merciful The Compassionate

Top Secret

Ministry Of Defense

Chairmanship of the Army Staff

Al Mira Department

No. 4/17/ammunition/249

Date 16 March 2003

To: The Command of the Western Region

Subject: Transfer of Ammunitions

The secret and immediate letter of the Chairmanship of the Army Staff 4/17/308 on 10 March 2003

1. The approval of the Army Chief of Staff was obtained to transfer THE SPECIAL AMMUNITIONS in the ammunition depots group of Najaf and according to the following priorities:

A. The first priority

First. Ammunition (122 mm)

Second. Ammunition (130 mm)

Third. Ammunition (155 mm)

To the depots and storage of the Second Corp and the two ammunition depot groups Dijla/2/3

B. Second priority.

First. Ammunition (23 mm)

Second. Ammunition (14.5 mm)

To the ammunition depots of the air defense and distributed to the ammunition depot groups in (Al Mussayeb- Al Sobra- Saad).

2. To execute the order of the Chief Army Staff indicated in section (1) above, we relate the following:

A. Duty

Transfer of the ammunitions shown in sections (A) and (B) from the ammunitions depots of Najaf to the ammunition depots in (Dijla 2/3, and Al Mansor, and Saad, and Al Mussayeb, and Sobra and Blad Roz and Amar Weys from March 16 till April 14 2003.

Signature…

General Rasheed Abdallah Sultan

Assistant to the Army Chief of Staff- Al Mira

March 2003

End of Partial translation

The remaining pages of this 9 pages top secret memo talk about getting the special vehicles to transfer the SPECIAL AMMUNITION and the people assigned to supervise and execute the transfer and they were top Iraqi Army and Military Intelligence officers.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Students protest to foce the Government to do nothing!

2006-04-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

Now I've seen everything!

I don't know how it is in other parts of the country but here in Washington state we've had students walk out of their class rooms in protest of the illegal immigration problem that this country faces. Did they walk out to show the Government that we need change? Did they walk out in support of fixing a problem that has plagued nations for centuries?

NO!

They walked out in an attempt to force the Government to do NOTHING!

These protestors wave the flag of Mexico and call these reforms racist but offer no suggestions to help fix the problem of illegal immigration in to this country. They have no solution for removing the strain on our emergency rooms or the welfare system that these people have caused.

Should I be suprised?
Not after hearing some of these same students say that a US Marine that was awarded the Medal of Honor is not a good role model for young adults. What is this country comming to? Are we destined to suffer the same fate as Rome for the same mistakes? Should we reward the breaking of our laws so we don't offend anybody?

I support the people that want to come to America to be Americans, what I don't support are those that come here by sneaking across our borders and don't want to be Americans. These are the people that live off of our system and hold on to their home country's identity. These people don't care to learn the language or give back to the country that is supporting them.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

BlogMad is opening to the public!

2006-03-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

On Monday March 20th, BlogMad will open its doors to the public with a payout rate of 2 credits for every blog that you view! I have been using this service for a little while now and it has really helped me reach out to many new people.
BlogMad also includes games and many more ways to earn traffic for your blog as well as meet new people. They have a Promisance server, cage fighting, puzzles and much, much more! Check them out by clicking the following image!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

2006-03-17T21:32:00.000-08:00

Last year at this time I was in Ireland drinking a Guiness....ahhhhhh the memories of what seems so long ago and so much like yesterday. Our plane from Kuwait back to the states made a stop in Shannon Ireland on St. Patty's Day and go figure, the bar was open even though it was something like 0300 in the morning and we were the only people in the airport! I called my wife to rub it in and let her know that I would be home the next day, that was a $60 phone call and worth every penny!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Civil war in Iraq!

2006-02-24T18:54:00.000-08:00

If you read the news papers or watch CNN it sounds like Iraq is now tearing itself apart after the mosque attacks. Lets hear what real soldiers and people in Iraq have to say about this and not just the US, anti-Bush media in this country.

Head on over to The Real Ugly American to read more.

Get more traffic to your blog!

2006-01-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

A new traffic exchange site is forming and looking for people to take part. Its still in the testing stages right now so they are offering 25 credits for signing up and 30 for each person you refer.

All you need to do is follow the link below, create an account and read up on the details that will come by e-mail.

Blogmad has gone in to beta testing and will be "live" in the very near future.

A soldiers Christmas

2005-12-24T12:08:00.000-08:00

I have seen this poem posted in a few places and received copies in my e-mail. I just had to pass it along to you. This is how I spent last Christmas and there are thousands spending theirs like this on this Christmas. Never forget them while you are enjoying spending time with your family and enjoying that wonderful Christmas dinner.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

T'was the night before Christmas,
He lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house, made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney, with presents to give,
And to see just who, in this home, did live.
I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by mantle, just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung some pictures of far distant lands.
With medals and badges, awards of all kinds,
A sober thought, came through my mind.
For this house was different, it was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier, once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor, in this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder,
Not how I had pictured an American soldier.
Was this the hero, of whom I'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?
I realized the families, that I saw this night,
Owed their lives to these soldiers,
Who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world, the children would play,
And grownups would celebrate, a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month of the year,
Because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder, how many lay alone,
In a cold Christmas eve, in a land far from home.
The very thought brought, a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees, and started to cry.
The soldier awakened, and i heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry, this life is my choice;
I fight for freedom, i don't ask for more,
My life is my god, my country, my corps."
The soldier rolled over, and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it, i continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours, so silent and still,
And we both shivered, from the cold night's chill.
I didn't want to leave, on that cold, dark, night,
This guardian of honor, so willing to fight.
When the soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure,
Whispered, "Carry on Santa, it's Christmas Day & all is secure."
One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.
Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a good night.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans, Christmas

Update on our progress in Iraq

2005-12-21T17:50:00.000-08:00

I'm tired of people saying that we aren't doing any good in Iraq, I'm tired of not seeing the real news stories broadcast on T.V. I'm getting sick of our supposed leaders saying that we should cut and run before this job is done and I'm really tired of listening to people that have never left the comfort of their own over stuffed couch try to tell me what is going on in Iraq and how messed up it is.

I want to share this document that includes an update of the number of attacks on our troops and some information on what is being done on a day to day basis by our troops. Get a clue people, stop eating up what you see on T.V. or read in blogs by the anti-everything people. Let me tell you how to find out the truth, its easy, not too complicated.....ASK SOMEONE THAT HAS BEEN THERE FOR MORE THAN A DAY!!!!

Now that I've gotten that out of my system, here is the link to the .pdf file that I was talking about.

Click to read.

Lies!!!! Or are they??????

2005-12-10T00:43:00.000-08:00

I had a reader complain about the quotes that I posted awhile back. This person seems to think that I'm playing a game or trying to be funny. I never wanted this to be about politics, I wanted to use this space to share my thoughts about comming home, give a different view on the events in Iraq and maybe give out some useful information.

What I can't stand are people that "forget" what they have said in the past to attack our President because they think that the people will turn on him. They set themselves up to gain from this mission in Iraq if WMDs were found and now that they aren't turning up in the numbers that we had expected they cut their support, call the President a liar and forget that they were saying the same exact things back in the 90's.

Stop following the party line and open your eyes to what is going on. Stop following the Kerrys and the Moores or the Clintons. Look at what is really going on and not just eat up the one sided view of the media. Look in to things for yourself, talk to the soldiers that have been there and who will go back. Ask us how we feel about putting our lives on the line in Iraq because we are the ones taking the risk for these people and not you, not the actors in Hollywood or the Dems in Washington, but us!

Truth or lies part 2

2005-11-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I have had a few hundred people look at my list of quotes but only one has guessed who said any of them. Yes you are right, all of the statements were made by Democrats. What angers me is that when the Dems. said these things it was the truth but when the President was saying them he was lying. I don't understand how they could have such short memories.

The quotes that I posted weren't all from post 9/11 speeches either, some were made by the Dems. during the Clinton administration. Was he telling lies back then as well?

Check out the full text with the date and the name of the person that said it at Right Wing News.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Bush, Government, Politics

Resources for help with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

2005-11-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

I have received a few requests for help with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from my readers and some of the people that I talk to locally. I thought I'd list some links to resources as well as some more information on what PTSD is.

The first thing that I suggest to the folks that I talk to is seek out your Chaplin or someone that you trust to talk with about your feelings. Not all of the feelings that you experience after returning from a war zone are true PTSD but may just be a reaction to the extreme change in environment. I always suggest that a person seek help and not try to handle this alone because you never know what might develop if you don't get your adjustment problems worked out in a timely manner.

The Community counseling Center on post along with the VA are wonderful places to start for either the person suffering from stress or depression or their family.

You might think that soldiers are more prone to suffering from PTSD but in my experience I have found that women that were raped or abused are much more common. This could be because of the training that a soldier receives helps them to deal with the harsh situations that they face but nobody really knows.

What I'm getting at is that this can happen to anybody at any time for many different reasons. Don't let it control your life, attack this issue by seeking help before it causes harm to your family, your career or yourself.

Help is out there!

Links:

What is PTSD?

Department of Veterans Affairs

Ft. Lewis ACS

Self Help Following Disasters

National Center For PTSD

I am not a health care professional, I am just a simple soldier that has been asked for help and I am trying to offer it in any way I can. Please seek help for you or your loved ones no matter how or where they experienced their traumatic incident or how long ago it was. All we have is each other.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, Stress, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, PTSD

Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers Help Children Hurt in IED Attack

2005-11-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers Help Children Hurt in IED Attack

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2005 – Iraqi police and U.S. soldiers responded to help five Iraqi children injured in a Nov. 20 roadside bomb explosion in eastern Baghdad, military officials reported.

Officials said the bomb most likely was targeting an Iraqi police patrol, but missed the target and detonated near a vehicle filled with children.

Police and U.S. soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry, secured the site and took the wounded children to a local hospital for treatment.

In other news, Iraqi police and soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team killed one suspect and injured two more Nov. 19 while responding to a roadside bomb attack in Tikrit, officials reported.

Soldiers located the triggermen as they attempted to escape the area and chased them into a hastily prepared roadblock. Once the attackers saw the roadblock, they tried to turn around and began ramming other civilian vehicles on the road in an attempt to escape the containment area, officials said.

Soldiers at the roadblock used several warning measures, attempting to stop the vehicles. When the drivers did not stop, the soldiers opened fire and stopped both vehicles, killing one occupant and injuring two others.

All three men tested positive for explosive residue. A search of the vehicles revealed a large sum of money. Iraqi police took the two wounded terrorists to the Bayji hospital for treatment.

About 150 Iraqi army soldiers and 300 Marines and soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Marine Division, began Operation Bruins in northern Ramadi on Nov. 19, officials reported.

Operation Bruins is part of a series of disruption operations in Ramadi, military officials said, and is designed to set the conditions for successful elections in December.

Forces are conducting cordon-and-search operations, blocking off known terrorist escape routes and searching for weapons caches. The operation comes on the heels of Operation Panthers, which disrupted operations in the Sophia district of eastern Ramadi. During Panthers, the team discovered weapons caches and detained suspected terrorists.

Bruins also follows the Nov. 17 engagement in which the 2nd Brigade Combat Team successfully repelled a terrorist attack in downtown Ramadi, killing 32 terrorists.

The caches found during Panthers, along with the recent capture of three high-value terrorist targets, have been part of continuous disruption operations in the Ramadi area, officials said.

Attacks against Iraqi and U.S. forces in the Ramadi area have decreased 60 percent in the last few weeks, officials reported, as a result of these ongoing operations.

Iraqi and Task Force Baghdad soldiers saved an Iraqi woman who had been shot by terrorists Nov. 19 in the Abu Ghraib area of western Baghdad. After being hit in a drive-by shooting, the woman was treated by combat medics on the scene from 1st Squadron, 11th Cavalry Regiment, a unit from Fort Irwin, Calif., and immediately was evacuated to a local hospital with the help of soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Division.

The woman was shot in the chest with an AK-47 assault rifle fired from a white sedan as it approached a military checkpoint. She was reported to be in stable condition at the hospital.

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, operating in southwestern Baghdad, detained three suspected terrorists in two separate incidents Nov. 19.

After striking a roadside bomb, the soldiers of C Company, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, searched the area and detained a man positively identified to have been tampering with explosive material. He also had multiple timers, detonators and initiators in his possession, officials said.

Later in the day, A Company, 2-101st Brigade Troops Battalion, in support of 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, discovered a roadside bomb consisting of a propane tank with a timer attached to it. The patrol secured and searched the area, detaining two individuals who were positively identified to be tampering with explosives.

Coalition aircraft flew 39 close-air-support and armed-reconnaissance sorties Nov. 20 for Operation Iraqi Freedom.

U.S. Air Force F-16s struck roadside bomb locations near Ramadi, while other U.S. Air Force F-16s provided close air support to coalition troops in contact with enemy fighters near Hawijah and Husaybah.

In addition, 12 U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Iraq. Also, Royal Air Force fighter aircraft performed in a nontraditional ISR role with their electro-optical and infrared sensors.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq, Task Force Baghdad and U.S. Central Command Air Forces Forward news releases.)

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military

On this Veterans Day

2005-11-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

I don't have much time because of all of the Veterans activities that I have been supporting today but I wanted to leave you all with this brief thought.....

I don't care what service you were in, how long you served, or what your job in the Military was....... Today is OUR day! To all of you that have something against us, you are welcome! You are welcome for the right to have a different view of life and to speak out. You are welcome for the chance to sleep in your bed knowing that there are rough men standing guard over you while you sleep.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Veterans

Smoking ban passes in Washington State

2005-11-09T18:13:00.000-08:00

Well it is happening, your rights as a business owner to choose how you run your business are being taken away. A new law in Washington State will be put in place on Dec. 8th 2005 to ban smoking in bars, restaurants and other privately owned establishments. What ever happened to the right of a consumer to go someplace else if they didn't like the way a business was run? If a business owner wants to only offer service to people over 6 feet with pink hair they should be able to and allowing smoking or not allowing it should be their right as well.

What happened to freedom of choice? If you don't like what I say you have the right to stop listening, if you are offended you have the right to leave, if you don't like eating or drinking near smokers GO AWAY! I had somebody tell me that they were offended by my cigarettes so I told them that I was offended by their breath and that they should leave before I complained to the police.

We have home owners groups that can put a lien on your home for painting it an un approved color or having a flag pole that is too big. The state can tell business's how to run their stores.

I guess I'd better check the state approved dress code before I leave the house.....I wouldn't want to offend anyone!

Technorati Tags : Smoking, Laws, Government, Election

Military.com Launches Career Resource for Veterans

2005-11-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

The Department of Defense news service has released the following information about job placement for separating service members.

About 250,000 people leave the military each year, Christopher Michel, president and founder of Military.com, said. A goal of the new network, found at www.military.com/network, is to help veterans capitalize on the training they received in the military by connecting them with employers who value this type
of training and to make that connection more efficient.

They talk about how it has been made easier for employers to find veterans to hire.

To make it easier for those wanting to hire a veteran to find one, veterans' resumes are literally "flagged" in Monster.com's resume database. A small American flag has been added next to veterans' resume listings, Michel said.

This is a great article for all vets to read and I suggest that you all check it out over at the DOD web site.

Technorati Tags : Employment, Jobs, Veterans, Vet, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Air Force

My take on the Paris riots

2005-11-07T19:48:00.000-08:00

To all of those in Paris, good luck, stay safe and remember..... You know where to find us when you need us.... as always.

Technorati Tags : Paris, Riots

Truth or lies, you tell me!

2005-11-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

I found some quotes of government officials and I thought I'd play a little game with them. I want you guys to use the comments section for your answers. I will post my source and the person or persons that made the quote in a couple of days.

Lets get started!

1) "[W]e urge you, after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the U.S. Constitution and laws, to take necessary actions (including, if appropriate, air and missile strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond effectively to the threat posed by Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass destruction programs."

2) "This December will mark three years since United Nations inspectors last visited Iraq. There is no doubt that since that time, Saddam Hussein has reinvigorated his weapons programs. Reports indicate that biological, chemical and nuclear programs continue apace and may be back to pre-Gulf War status. In addition, Saddam continues to refine delivery systems and is doubtless using the cover of a licit missile program to develop longer- range missiles that will threaten the United States and our allies."

3) "What is at stake is how to answer the potential threat Iraq represents with the risk of proliferation of WMD. Baghdad's regime did use such weapons in the past. Today, a number of evidences may lead to think that, over the past four years, in the absence of international inspectors, this country has continued armament programs."

4) "The community of nations may see more and more of the very kind of threat Iraq poses now: a rogue state with weapons of mass destruction, ready to use them or provide them to terrorists. If we fail to respond today, Saddam and all those who would follow in his footsteps will be emboldened tomorrow."

5) "There is no doubt that Saddam Hussein's regime is a serious danger, that he is a tyrant, and that his pursuit of lethal weapons of mass destruction cannot be tolerated. He must be disarmed."

Lets stop for now and see how many of you get them correct. Please format your answers like so:

1) (True or False) or like this (Dem or Rep)

Either true / false or political party answers are ok. Good luck to all!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, Bush, Government, Politics

Have some fun at Blogshares!

2005-11-03T22:05:00.000-08:00

I know that this is way off topic but I have just started playing the Blogshares trading game. I'm sure that most of you have heard of this by now but I am new and just love it. The idea is that you trade shares in blogs like they were stocks, a good blog with links is worth more than one that has few links.

Blogs produce "ideas" that can be grouped in to bonds and traded on the bond market. If you click the link to blogshares on the right side of this page you'll be taken to the status page for this blog, if you just want the main page, click here.

Check it out, its a lot of fun and the people are really helpful.

Technorati Tags : links, retail, blogs, blogging, marketing, traffic

Some things to think about after the 2,000th American death in Iraq

2005-10-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

I guess its about time that I added my 2 cents to the news of the last couple of days. It has happened, we have now lost our 2,000th soldier in Iraq. I feel for the families of all of those soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen that have lost their lives or had them forever changed.

Mine was forever changed the day I left my family for 13 months, that's 13 months that I will never get back with my 70 year old parents, my beautiful wife or my 9 year old son. I am forever changed by the events of my time in Baghdad and the things that I have seen. Some may say that I lost a year, I say that I lived for that year.

There are children and families in Iraq that are able to vote, to choose their own future because of what my brothers in arms and I have done. Do not make this political, do not try to divide our country as it was during Viet Nam. What we are doing is just, it is necessary and it should have been done a long time ago.

Do not cry for our service men and women, hold them high for what they are doing. Keep them close to your hearts and offer them thanks. If we were afraid to pay the price to spread freedom and democracy the French, Belgians, English and most of Europe would be called Germans. China and the far east would be a part of Japan. We didn't stop because it was hard or we had lost too many people during that struggle, we continued to fight the good fight and we made the world a better place. Germany and Japan were about as much of a threat to us back then as Iraq or any other "enemy" of our is now.

According to the D-Day Museum, we suffered 1,465 killed in action during the Normandy landings. On Iwo Jima during the 36 day battle for the island we lost 6,000 American soldiers.
During the Civil War at a place called "Little Round Top" the armies of the north and the south suffered 51,000 casualties during fighting that lasted only 3 days.

Freedom is not free, it is bought and paid for by the people that have the will to leave their homes and their families, to go and knowingly put them selves at risk not only to protect their current family but to protect future generations. To offer a future not only to Americans but to every person on this planet.

Today you hurt for the loss of a loved one either dead or far away, do not cry for them, support them and help to keep the memory of their deeds alive for future generations to look back on so that they may decide if it was just or not.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military, Navy, Marines

New Link Exchange Program for blogs and retail sites

2005-10-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

Everything Below Retail is offering a new link exchange program for your blog or retail web site. Right now it is set up for outdoor related blogs, sporting good and automotive sites but I bet if you ask for a new category one will be added for you. Get the full story over at the EBR Blog

Technorati Tags : links, retail, blogs, blogging, marketing, traffic

Response to comments from my last post

2005-10-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

This post is for the person that left the long winded comment in my last post about the uninformed. Click here to read the comment.

I am educated and so are my men. Everybody on my crew has atleast an AA if not a BA, mine is in electrical engineering. We are the highest educated fighting force that America has ever fielded so I can tell that you are far removed from the American soldier. I can tell you what makes a terrorist, poverty like none you have ever seen in America, a lack of hope for tomorrow, a life that isn't a life. That is what I saw when I arrived in Iraq. Have you been there? Have you seen the new look of hope in the faces of the young and old alike? Have you seen the warm welcome and the thanks that the Iraqi people offer up to the American soldiers? I think not! If you had you would know that we are doing the right thing by offering those people a chance to choose their own life, to be free of a mad man. I don't know where you get your "facts" but maybe you should put your boots on the ground and see for yourself like I have and will do again! Stop swallowing everything that people like Michael Moore are feeding you because it is full of slander, half truths, and utter nonsense.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military

The uninformed are everywhere!

2005-09-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

Check out what this guy has to say and be amazed at the level of stupidity that some people posses. I hate to even link to this page but when I read it I didn't know if I should fall out of my chair laughing at this person or choke the living sh*t out of them. You figure it out for me please!

Attitudes we need to fight!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military

The Combined Federal Campaign is seeking donations for many different causes!

2005-09-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

DoD Kicks Off 2005 Combined Federal Campaign

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2005 – Acting Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England kicked off the 2005 Combined Federal Campaign here today by thanking Defense Department employees for their generosity in supporting hurricane-relief efforts and encouraging them to continue that same level of support for other important causes.

England acknowledged that this year's CFC goal of $12.8 million might be challenging in light of more than $1 billion department employees and other U.S. citizens have donated to hurricane-related charities.

This year's CFC campaign includes several hurricane-related causes, along with hundreds of others whose needs "did not go away because (Hurricane) Katrina happened," England said.

"Many people are in need of help from Hurricane Katrina and Rita," the deputy secretary told a group of service and DoD agency leaders and CFC key workers. "But we must not forget that there are also regional and national and international charities that need our support."

Speaking in a room decorated with red, white and blue balloons and a banner urging, "Please Give," England encouraged department members to continue their long history of generous support to the CFC campaign and to support this year's theme, "Be An Everyday Hero."

England praised the "uniquely American" spirit in which DoD workers open their hearts and their wallets to others in need, in most cases, to people they've never met and never will.

"You don't know the lives you've changed and the effect you've had," he said, noting that CFC donations cause a "ripple effect" throughout local communities and the nation as a whole.

England referred to a famous Winston Churchill quote in urging department members to give during this year's CFC campaign. "You make a living by what you get," he said. "You make a life by what you give."

Goals for this year's campaign, by organization, are:

Department of Defense -- $12.8 million
Navy and Marine Corps -- $3.45 million
Army -- $2.95 million
Air Force -- $1.75 million
Defense Intelligence Agency -- $800,000
Office of the Secretary of Defense -- $780,000
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency -- $560,000
Defense Information Systems Agency -- $525,000
Defense Logistics Agency -- $347,000
Joint Staff -- $275,000
Defense Threat Reduction Agency -- $195,000
DoD Inspector General -- $170,000
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences -- $169,000
Washington Headquarters Services -- $136,000
Missile Defense Agency -- $132,000
Defense Contract Management Agency -- $115,000
Defense Contract Audit Agency -- $96,000
Defense Finance and Accounting Service -- $95,000
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency -- $80,000
Pentagon Force Protection Agency -- $50,000
Department of Defense Education Activity -- $40,000
Pentagon Federal Credit Union -- $32,000
Defense Security Cooperation Agency -- $25,000
Defense Security Service -- $14,000

Related Site:

Combined Federal Campaign

Technorati Tags : Donations, Charity, Army, Military, Navy, Marines, DOD, Government

Child Firearm Safety Program

2005-09-18T10:23:00.000-07:00

Check out this post for more information on child firearm safety and order your free safety kit with 2 gun locks today!
Read More

Technorati Tags : Guns, Shooting, Kids, Safety, Firearms,

Resources for the Army family

2005-09-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that military life is tough. Not only is it tough on the soldier but it is tough on the entire family. A soldier's day can pass quickly while in training or on deployment but there is always somebody that is left behind at home. Children are missing a parent to talk to, play with and provide guidance. There is a spouse that has to become mom and dad, handle the kids and home on their own and pass the down time alone.

The Army is trying to make this transition as easy on the family as they can by extending assignments and trying to stick to published training schedules. As anybody that has ever served knows its best to live by the motto "Semper Gumby" meaning always be flexible.

I'd like to direct all soldiers and their families to the Army family web site called, My Army Life Too. This site is full of resources for the entire family and includes things like child development, deployment preparation, adjustment to post deployment life and many other resources.

Check it out!

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military

Leo Damascus knife at Everything Below Retail $305 plus free shipping!

2005-09-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Everything Below Retail

A truly rare and unique piece of work blending the centuries-old art of hand forged Damascus with a piece of history. The Leo Damascus a high performance Damascus steel was made available to Boker through a noted European Damascus forger Markus Balbach. The steel used in this knife is forged out of the barrel of the German battle tank Leopard I thus Leo Damascus. This speciality steel is not available to the market and there is no material number even assigned to it because it was only used by the military.

Herr Balbach was fortunate to acquire some for the exclusive use of Boker. A chromium-manganese and vanadium tool steel alloy was added to this extremely wear-resistant barrel steel. The result is a remarkably high hardness for Damascus steel (63-65 HRC). A very high performance Damascus. The pattern provided on the blade is labeled "small pyramid" providing a spectacular work of art; and as with all true Damascus every blade is different.

Handle material is hard coated 6061-T6 aluminium and features exotic desert ironwoods inlays. Liner locking. Includes certificate of authenticity and gift box. Serialized.

Overall length: 7 7/8". Blade length: 3 3/8".

Everything Below Retail

Technorati Tags : Shooting, Fishing, Knives, Hunting, Army, Military

Operation Restoring Rights to secure Tal Afar

2005-09-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

'Operation Restoring Rights' to secure Tal Afar

September 13, 2005

BAGHDAD, Iraq (Army News Service, Sept. 13, 2005) – At least 119 suspected terrorists have been detained since Sept. 10 by Iraqi security forces and Coalition troops in northern Iraq as they continue operations to purge insurgents from the city of Tal Afar, about 30 miles west of Mosul.

In a cordon and search Sept. 10, Coalition forces detained 41 individuals suspected of terrorist activity, officials said. Security forces also seized a mortar system with multiple rounds of ammunition and a cache consisting of hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

“Operation Restoring Rights is being conducted to remove terrorists and foreign fighters operating in Tal Afar,” said Col. Billy J. Buckner, spokesman for Multi-National Corps-Iraq.

“This operation is in support of the Iraqi government’s efforts to bring safety and security to the citizens of the city,” Buckner said. “The local government requested Coalition assistance in setting the conditions needed to establish permanent Iraqi security for the people of Tal Afar that will allow them to vote in upcoming elections.”

Task Force Freedom detained 78 more suspected terrorists during operations in Tal Afar Sept. 12 as Operation Restoring Rights continued.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment detained 57 individuals suspected of terrorist activity during two operations.

Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 3rd ACR detained 15 terror suspects during a cordon and search operation.

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment detained four suspected terrorists.

Soldiers from 3rd ACR also detained two individuals suspected of terrorist activity while patrolling. The suspects are in custody with no Multi-National Force injuries reported

Since Aug. 26, Iraqi and Coalition Forces have captured 211 terror suspects, killed 141 terrorists and confiscated nine weapons caches, MNC-I reported.

(Editor’s note: Information provided by two press releases from the Multi-National Force-Iraq Combined Press Information Center.)

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military

Updates on the offensive in Tal Afar

2005-09-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

The offensive in Haditha is in full swing. The Army along with soldiers from the Iraqi army are moving in to secure the town. Read more at In The Bull Pen

Iraqi Soldiers Donate to Katrina Victims

2005-09-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

Iraqi soldiers collected 1,000,000 Iraqi dinars for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

By Multinational Security Transition Command-Iraq

TAJI, Iraq, Sept. 9, 2005 —

Iraqi soldiers serving at Taji military base collected 1,000,000 Iraqi dinars for victims of Hurricane Katrina.Iraqi Col. Abbas Fadhil, Iraqi base commander, presented the money to U.S. Col. Paul D. Linkenhoker, Taji Coalition base commander, at a Sept. 5 staff meeting.

"We are all brothers. When one suffers tragedy, we all suffer their pain."
Iraqi Col. Abbas Fadhil“We are all brothers,” said Abbas. “When one suffers tragedy, we all suffer their pain.”The amount of money is small in American dollars - roughly $680 - but it represents a huge act of compassion from Iraqi soldiers to their American counterparts, said U.S. Army Maj. Michael Goyne.

“I was overwhelmed by the amount of their generosity,” Goyne said. “I was proud and happy to know Col. Abbas, his officers, NCOs and fellow soldiers. That amount represents a month’s salary for most of those soldiers.”

Abbas read a letter he wrote after giving the envelope to Linkenhoker.

"I am Colonel Abbas Fadhil; Tadji Military Base Commander,” Abbas wrote. “On behalf of myself and all the People of Tadji Military Base; I would like to console the American People and Government for getting this horrible disaster. So we would like to donate 1.000.000 Iraqi Dinars to help the government and the People also I would like to console all the ASTs who helped us rebuilding our country and our Army. We appreciate the American's help and support. Thank you."

Technorati Tags:
New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina, Military, Iraq, Disasters, War, Army

Sep. 11th 2001, a day hard lessons were learned. Remember 9/11

2005-09-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Its been 4 years since that terrible day and a lot has changed. We are engaged in 2 theaters of war, our transportation systems are guarded like never before, there is great debate amongst the masses regarding our foreign policy, we know without a doubt that America is a target.

Before 9/11, we lived in our own little world where the bad things that happened to us were of our own making. Now, we have an enemy. Not only does this enemy dislike us because of our freedoms, they hate us for our religion. To them we are the enemy no matter where or if we worship, how much money we make, or what we do for a living. These people believe that by killing us they will earn a reward in heaven. We must NEVER forget what happened on that morning 4 years ago, we must never stop working to prevent things like this from happening EVER again.

Some think that we brought this on ourselves......I ask, how? Afghanistan is better off for our being there, Iraq will be better off very soon. So what if Saddam bluffed us about the WMDs....or did he? I have been there and seen what we are doing in Iraq, and I will always say that we are preventing future attacks on our country with our actions in the middle east. We are making the lives of the people in Afghanistan and Iraq better and we are killing terrorists in their own region and not on the streets of America. Find the enemy, fix the enemy and kill them. That is how we can protect America.

Never forget the pain in your hearts when you saw the twin towers come crashing down, never forget the sight of people jumping to their deaths, never forget the hero's that we saw during that time and the feeling of community that we as Americans haven't had since Pearl Harbor.

Finally, NEVER forget who the enemy is and that only the American people can stop the enemy from trying to change our way of life. Be proud to be American, there is no other country like ours. We make mistakes, we don't have all of the answers, but we try and we care about each other. We have chances that people in other countries could never have, protect that.

Technorati Tags : Iraq, Baghdad, War on Terror, OIF, Army, Military, WTC, 911, Terrorism,