Freedom Isn't Free

In Memory...

2007-09-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

This is borrowed from the 34th Inf. Division Website and
Design Copyright © 2007 Patrick Skelly, for the 34th Infantry Division Association.
For further Website information, contact webmaster@34infdiv.org.

The 'Vacant Chairs' of today's Desert Bulls.

We have seen, over the course of recent deployments that too many of our own soldiers - the 34th Infantry Division - have died in the U.S. Central Command theater. The recent losses are listed below.

We know, from our own experiences in World War II, what it means to lose a fellow Red Bull. To their families, their friends, their comrades still in harm's way, we present this small remembrance in their honor, in your honor.

Specialist Rhys W. Klasno, 20, of Riverside CA and the 1114th Transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, died 13 May 2007 in Haditha, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.

Staff Sergeant Robert J. Basham, 23, of Kenosha WI and Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 126th Field Artillery Regiment, died 15 April 2007 at Camp As Sayliyah, Doha, Qatar as a result of injuries from a non-combat incident.

Staff Sergeant Greg N. Riewer, 30, of Frazee MN and A Company, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, died 23 March 2007 in Habbaniyah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive devise detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations.

Sergeant Joshua A. Schmit, 26, of Willmar MN and the 1451st Transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, died 14 April 2007 in Fallujah, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle.

Sergeant Brandon L. Wallace, 27, of St. Louis MO and the 1451st Transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, died 14 April 2007 in Fallujah, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle.

Sergeant 1st Class David R. Berry, 37, of Wichita KS and A Battery, 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment, died 22 February 2007 in Qasim, Iraq, when the vehicle he was in struck an improvised explosive device. Berry's 'home unit' was the 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery, Kansas Army National Guard, Dodge City, Kansas.

Sergeant Major Michael C. Mettille, 44, of West Saint Paul MN and the 134th Brigade Support Battalion, died 1 February 2007 from a non-combat related injury at Camp Adder, Iraq.

Specialist Carla J. Stewart, 37, of Sun Valley CA and 250th Transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, died 28 January 2007 of injuries suffered in a convoy vehicle rollover in Tallil, Iraq.

Command Sergeant Major Marilyn L. Gabbard, 46, of Polk City IA and Joint Forces Headquarters, Iowa Army National Guard, Camp Dodge IA, died 20 January 2007 in the crash of a UH-60 helicopter in Baghdad, Iraq. Her death is noted here because of her close organizational connection with our division.

Staff Sergeant James Wosika Jr., 24, of Saint Paul MN and 1st Platoon, B Company, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, was killed in action 9 January 2007 by a car bomb while conducting a vehicle search south of Camp Fallujah, Iraq.

Staff Sergeant Thomas W. Clemons, 37, of Leitchfield KY and the 1st Brigade Troops Battalion died 10 December 2006 of natural causes in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq. Clemons' 'home' unit was the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Armor Regiment.

Sergeant Nicholas Turcotte, 23, of Maple Grove MN and A Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment died on 4 December 2006 from injuries suffered north of Logistics Support Area Adder near Al Nasiriyah, Iraq. His M-1117 Armored Security Vehicle had been escorting a logistics convoy when it rolled over. The accident was not the result of enemy action and an investigation was conducted.

Sergeant Bryan T. McDonough, 22, of Maplewood MN and the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment died on 2 December 2006 from injuries suffered in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. An improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during security operations supporting the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group.

Sergeant Cory Rystad, 20, of Red Lake Falls MN and the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment died on 2 December 2006 from injuries suffered in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. An improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during security operations supporting the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group.

Staff Sergeant Scott E. Nisely, 48, of Marshalltown IA and C Company, 1st Battalion, 133rd Infantry Regiment was killed on 30 September 2006 near Al Asad, Iraq. He was part of a forward security element providing convoy security when insurgent forces attacked with small arms fire. Nisely had previously deployed for Operation Desert Storm as a USMC officer.

Specialist Kampha B. Sourivong of Iowa City IA and C Company, 1st Battalion, 133rd Infantry Regiment, was killed in action 30 September 2006 near Al Asad, Iraq.

Sergeant Germaine "DB" Debro of Nebraska and B Troop, 1st Squadron, 167th Cavalry (RSTA), was killed in action 4 September 2006 near Tikrit, Iraq.* RSTA: Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition

Staff Sergeant Joshua Robert Hanson of Dent MN and A Company, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, was killed in action 30 August 2006 near Khalidiyah, Iraq while supporting 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment.

Staff Sergeant Jeff Hansen of Cairo NE and B Troop, 1st Squadron, 167th Cavalry (RSTA), died 28 August 2006 near Balad, Iraq.

Sergeant Kyle R. Miller, 19, of Willmar, MN, a Signal Support System Specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment (Strike), was killed in action 29 June 2006 when a roadside bomb detonated near his vehicle south of Balad, Iraq.

Sergeant Brent W. Koch of Morton MN and 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment, was killed in action 16 June 2006 when a roadside bomb detonated near his cargo vehicle near Ad Dwaniyah, Iraq.

Specialist Benjamin J. Slaven, 22, of Plymouth NE and a HMMWV gunner for the 2nd Platoon, 308th Transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, was killed in action 9 June 2006 when a roadside bomb exploded near his convoy near Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq.

Sergeant Daniel L. Sesker of Ogden IA and C Troop, 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, was killed in action 6 April 2006 near Baghdad, Iraq.

Sergeant Gregory L. Tull of Pocahontas IA and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 194th Field Artillery Regiment, was killed in action 25 November 2005 near Hit, Iraq, while assigned to the 155th Brigade Combat Team.

Specialist James C. Kearney III of Emerson IA and B Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Infantry Regiment, died 1 November 2004 of combat injuries near Sharan, Afghanistan.

"May they have no more hills to climb,
nor cold, nor rain, nor mud, nor enemy fire,
and may they now rest in Peace."

Welcome Home Redbulls

2007-08-16T20:33:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it's a little late but better than never - I have been away for quite some time due to personal reasons - and I wanted to just give a big shout out to the Redbulls who have finally made it home!

WELCOME HOME!

Hello world!

2006-10-21T04:32:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of you who have been so great about sending me your support and kind words. I have been somewhat out of commission for these past couple of months due to personal problems - but plan to be back in full swing before very long. As it sits now, my internet access is sporadic to say the least.
I hope that all of you are still doing all you can to support our troops and their families. One of my own family members who came back from Iraq earlier this year will be leaving for Afghanistan soon, and there are others I care about still in Iraq, so I do not plan on abandoning my blogsite anytime in the near future. I apologize that the posts are so far behind; I hope to remedy that soon.
Until then, take care! And to all of my Redbull friends - you know who you are - hang in there!

Monsters and the Weak

2006-08-09T23:37:00.000-05:00

Here's a terrific poem about the valor and commitment on display everyday in Iraq and Afghanistan by our warriors. I received it in an email from my uncle...

"Monsters and the Weak"
The sun beat like a hammer, not a cloud was in the sky.
The mid-day air ran thick with dust; my throat was parched and dry.
With microphone clutched tight in hand and cameraman in tow,
I ducked beneath a fallen roof, surprised to hear "stay low."
My eyes blinked several times before in shadow I could see,
the figure stretched across the rubble, steps away from me.
He wore a cloak of burlap strips, all shades of grey and brown,
that hung in tatters till he seemed to melt into the ground.
He never turned his head or took his eye from off the scope,
but pointed through the broken wall and down the rocky slope.
"About eight hundred yards," he said, his whispered words concise,
"beneath the baggy jacket he is wearing a device."
A chill ran up my spine despite the swelter of the heat,
"You think he's gonna set it off along the crowded street?"
The sniper gave a weary sigh and said "I wouldn't doubt it,"
"unless there's something this old gun and I can do about it."
A thunderclap, a tongue of flame, the still abruptly shattered;
while citizens that walked the street were just as quickly scattered.
Till only one remained, a body crumpled on the ground,
The threat to oh so many ended by a single round.
And yet the sniper had no cheer, no hint of any gloat,
instead he pulled a logbook out and quietly he wrote.
"Hey, I could put you on TV that shot was quite a story!"
But he surprised me once again -- "I got no wish for glory."
"Are you for real?" I asked in awe, "You don't want fame or credit?"
He looked at me with saddened eyes and said "you just don't get it."
"You see that shot-up length of wall, the one without a door?
before a mortar hit, it used to be a grocery store."
"But don't go thinking that to bomb a store is all that cruel,
the rubble just across the street -- it used to be a school.
The little kids played soccer in the field out by the road,"
His head hung low, "They never thought a car would just explode."
"As bad as all this is though, it could be a whole lot worse,"
He swallowed hard; the words came from his mouth just like a curse.
"Today the fight's on foreign land, on streets that aren't my own,"
"I'm here today 'cause if I fail, the next fight's back at home."
"And I won't let my Safeway burn, my neighbors dead inside,
don't wanna get a call from school that says my daughter died;
I pray that not a one of them will know the things I see,
nor have the work of terrorists etched in their memory."
"So you can keep your trophies and your fleeting bit of fame,
I don't care if I make the news, or if they speak my name."
He glanced toward the camera and his brow began to knot,
"If you're looking for a story, why not give this one a shot."
"Just tell the truth of what you see, without the slant or spin;
that most of us are OK and we're coming home again.
And why not tell our folks back home about the good we've done,
how when they see Americans, the kids come at a run."
You tell 'em what it means to folks here just to speak their mind,
without the fear that tyranny is just a step behind;
Describe the desert miles they walk in their first chance to vote,
or ask a soldier if he's proud, I'm sure you'll get a quote."
He turned and slid the rifle in a drag bag thickly padded,
then looked again with eyes of steel as quietly he added;
"And maybe just remind the few, if ill of us they speak,
that we are all that stands between the monsters and the weak."

It's Been Said...

2006-08-06T22:19:00.000-05:00

"I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it." — ThomasJefferson

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." — Benjamin Franklin

"But a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever." — John Adams

"It is seldom that liberty of any kind is lost all at once." — DavidHume

"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty." — JohnF. Kennedy

Back to blogging...

2006-08-04T03:17:00.000-05:00

I am back. Sometimes life outside the blogging world must take precedent - I apologize for my absence -- it was both unexpected and unavoidable, but I am now back to blogging... A big thank-you to all of you who emailed me while I was away for your concerns, it's nice to be cared about. I love this blog and all that it symbolizes - I'm glad to be back and hopefully over the next few days I'll get caught up on everything that needs to be posted -- thanks again for your support!

WMD-Civil Support Teams

2006-07-25T15:20:00.000-05:00

The Department of Defense notified Congress yesterday that Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Teams (WMD-CST) have been certified for four states.

These teams are fully ready to assist civil authorities in responding to a domestic weapon of mass destruction incident and possess the requisite skills, training, and equipment to be proficient in all mission requirements.

Congress has authorized a total of 55 WMD-CSTs, enough to field at least one team in every state, territory and the District of Columbia.

To learn more, click here.

Shoutout to the Redbulls!

2006-07-24T05:53:00.000-05:00

Have a few photos to share of various 1-133rd soldiers courtesy of Redbull Web. I wanted to share them with everyone - and while you're browsing the pics of these fine men and women who are serving our military, take a moment out of your day and send them a note of support or say a prayer for their well being. They deserve that from all of us.

Also while you are out web surfing - have you checked out the site of Justice Soldier?

FREEDOM ISN'T FREE! SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!

Hmmm...

2006-07-23T01:44:00.000-05:00

Found this online courtesy of a friend..

.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2006-07-14T03:19:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday to my favorite MP! (That's her on the right!)
Let's hear it for my niece Capt. Wilson!

Why We Fight

2006-07-11T23:19:00.000-05:00

*This post is courtesy of Sid Fredrickson

Click here to send comments of support to
the people of India in its time of need.

Why is this important?

It is important because this is why all the people who
served and is serving in Iraq and Afghanstan believe
so strongly in what they are doing there

They fight against terror over there so we don't have
happen here what happened in India today.

It's why they Fight. It is why we should fight for
them and support them in every possible way.

Thank you.

ROLLING VICTORY FAST!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-07-08T02:44:00.000-05:00

THIS IS IMPORTANT! If you read nothing else on my blog - read this post!

Join me, along with the Tanker Brothers and Semper Gratus, Right Truth, and many others in our efforts to show a solid stand of support for our troops -- as we mock Cindy Sheehan's "Rolling Fast" -- you know where they just fast for ONE DAY and 'pass the fast' around Hollywood and the Code Pink gestapo... We are banding together to show that we do not agree with Cindy Sheehan's political rants!
YOU CAN HELP TOO! Pledge to fast for one day. Just one single day to show your support for those of us who would stand in Cindy's way.

Let's do this!
BACK OFF CINDY!
WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!

Soldier Ride National Tour 2006

2006-07-06T02:11:00.000-05:00

While other people were enjoying their Fourth of July with barbecues, picnics, fireworks, concerts, and other celebrations, several cyclists, most of them wounded in the war on terrorism, took part in something absolutely commendable. They were taking part in Soldier Ride 2006, a cross-country cycling event to raise money and awareness for wounded servicemembers.
The theme of the 2006 cross-country ride is “America Still Remembers.” The ride is multi-funtional, serving to aid in the rehabilitation of veterans who return home with injuries incurred in the current military conflicts abroad. To quote the Soldier Ride website: "Participation in our cycling events provides these wounded warriors a foundation for the development of a positive self-image and outlook on life, which speeds the rehabilitation and recovery process...As the wounded service members participating in our ride cycle from city to city, we aim to show them that the country is still behind those who have sacrificed life or limb in support of our freedom. "
What an AWESOME event! The 2006 Soldier Ride will stop in over 70 cities across America -- it began on May 6th in Montauk, NY and will end on July 29th in San Diego, CA.
I applaud these people for their dedication to our wounded veterans.

Take a moment and check out their website!

Make a donation to Soldier Ride!

Post a message of support to the riders!

Redbulls Make a Difference!

2006-07-05T01:22:00.000-05:00

2-136 BearCat Soldier on patrol in Iraq, photo courtesy of Redbull Web.

The following info is courtesy of the BearCat Bugle, a newsletter of the 2nd of the 136 Combined Arms Battalion, 1/34th BCT

Check out some of the ways that the presence of our troops is making a difference in Iraq!

• They have discovered and destroyed 10 weapons caches.

• They have captured over 30 insurgents and sent a majority of them to the Regional Detainment Facility.

• They have broken up two insurgent cells operating in their AO

• They have broken up a kidnapping ring.

• They have ambushed 3 IED teams as they attempted to place their cowardly weapons against their task force.

• They have logged over 450 combat patrols in their sector.

• They have virtually shut down all IDF coming into their camp.

• They have kept Rte Long Island clear of IEDs for one solid Month.

• They have started two school projects.

• They have started two community clean-up projects.

• Their mechanics have serviced or repaired over 600 vehicles.

• They have cleared through our ECPs over 27,000 vehicles with no incidents!

• Their Docs have treated more than 1,500 patients at the BAS.

• Their towers have successfully defended against indirect and direct fire attacks.

• They have gone the past two months with zero vehicle accidents.

• They have provided intelligence that has resulted in missions in other sectors against high-ranking insurgents.

As you can see by the list above—they are making a positive difference. We often hear about all of the bad things happening in Iraq - but there are good things happening as well, and our men and women are getting some great things accomplished. They need to be recognized for the good things that they are doing.

HOOAH!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2006-07-04T00:58:00.000-05:00

And Happy Birthday to ME too! (Yep - firecracker baby here!)

Bush Urges Troop Support

2006-07-02T23:51:00.000-05:00

Bush Urges Troop Support Through 'America Supports You'
By John D. Banusiewicz, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 2, 2006 – President Bush yesterday urged Americans to find ways to support the nation's servicemembers through the Defense Department's "America Supports You" program.
In his weekly radio address, the president noted sacrifices made for freedom throughout the nation's history, and suggested that during this Independence Day weekend, Americans turn to America Supports You to find a way to thank the men and women - and their families - who are making those sacrifices now.
"Today, a new generation of American patriots is defending our freedom against determined and ruthless enemies," Bush said. "At this hour, the men and women of our armed forces are facing danger in distant places, carrying out their missions with all the skill and honor we expect of them. And their families are enduring long separations from their loved ones with great courage and dignity.
"Our troops and our military families deserve all our support and gratitude," he continued, "and on this Fourth of July weekend, I ask every American to find a way to thank those who defend our freedom. To find out about efforts in your community, please visit the Web site AmericaSupportsYou.mil."

To read the rest of this story or to learn more about how you can volunteer for 'America Supports You', click on the following links:
Finish reading the story or Learn how to help the efforts at 'America Supports You'

The Cost of Freedom

2006-07-02T02:30:00.000-05:00

Please join me in recognizing the loss of another Redbull Soldier.
SPC Kyle Miller, a member of the Minnesota National Guard, 682nd Engineer Battalion, within the 134 BSB, died resulting from injuries sustained while on a convoy in Iraq this past week. Kyle was 19 years old and I am sure his family and friends and fellow soldiers could all use some prayers and support right now.

Kyle was among the 2,600 Minnesotans who were part of 4,000 National Guard and Army Reserve troops deployed in March, back when I began this blog to show my support for my Redbull friends and all other military men and women.

To read more about SPC Kyle Miller please click here.

Holiday Happenings - Happy 4th of July!

2006-07-02T02:23:00.000-05:00

USS Intrepid Celebrates All Things American for the Fourth, New York City
The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New York City is celebrating the Fourth of July with its third annual Red, White and Blue Festival. To read more, click here.

America's 2006 Independence Day Parade, Washington D.C.
The Fourth of July celebrations in Washington, DC begin with the National Independence Day Parade. This flag waving traditional parade features invited bands, military and specialty units, floats, giant balloons, equestrian participants, drill teams, celebrities and more. To learn more, click here.

Coal Creek Fourth of July Celebration and Mountain Run, Boulder
Start the morning off with a bang at the Scar Top Mountain Run and Spruce Canyon 5K, starting at 8 am. The run, which donates 100 percent of its profits to the community, climbs 1,000 feet with an equal amount of descent over the 7.4-mile dirt road course; the Spruce Canyon 5K is a gentler version of the 12K race. The Coal Creek Fourth of July Celebration includes a full morning of family fun, including a parade, pancake breakfast, booths and music. To learn more, click here.

The 25th Annual Lisle Eyes to the Skies Festival, Chicago
Eyes to the Skies includes hot air balloon launches, nationally known musical entertainment, a special children's area, an arts and crafts fair, a variety of food vendors, a large carnival and an assortment of daily events. Click here to learn more.

Family Fourth of July Celebration, Minneapolis
In the Minneapolis Riverfront DistrictThe Minneapolis Riverfront District's 4th of July fireworks can be viewed from Main Street in front of St. Anthony Main, the Stone Arch bridge & along West River Parkway. Click here to learn more.

July 1st & 4th Fair St. Louis Celebration & LIVE on the Levee, St. Louis
Last summer, Celebrate St. Louis - a collaboration of downtown civic organizations produced LIVE on the Levee, a free concert and fireworks event under the Arch on the St. Louis Riverfront. This summer, the new combined entity will produce a free summer concert series on the Riverfront beginning with Fair St. Louis on July 1st & July 4th and continuing with LIVE on the Levee. To get details, click here.

Chevy's Freedom Over Texas, Houston
Houston's Official July 4th Celebration, will celebrate America's Birthday with a live concert featuring a concert with rock 'n' roll Grammy winners Los Lonely Boys., and one of the largest fireworks displays in the state of Texas! This is a one-of-kind family event that will have the eyes of Texas upon Houston for the 4th of July! For details, click here.

Red White and Fleet, San Francisco
SEE THE SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE BAY! The Red and White Fleet will again offer an exceptional opportunity for the public to view the spectacular San Francisco Fireworks displays on July 4th from the middle of the Bay. Click here to learn more.

These and many more 4th of July celebrations are taking place throughout the 4th of July Holiday. It's great to have picnics and barbecues and fireworks - but please remember what this holiday is really all about. Independence Day is truly a time for reflecting upon the foundations of America and what makes this country different from others. It is about true leaders, who dared to dream and who strove for freedom. We owe such a debt to our men and women in the military today who continue to serve America in order to keep her safe and who embody the spirit of patriotism every day.

Take some time this weekend to send your support to our soldiers by clicking on any of the following links:

America Supports You

Email Our Military

Operation Dear Abby

A Million Thanks

Site of the Week

2006-07-01T01:56:00.000-05:00

Considering that this is the weekend that most people will be celebrating Independence Day, I wanted to share some things that seemed relevant. This site I found while websurfing is one of them I deemed worthwhile.
The Site of the Week is none other than http://www.holidays.net/independence/

Remember while enjoying your holiday that we are only able to celebrate it because of our military and their commitment to this great United States of America. Why not do something this weekend to give back -- donate your time as a volunteer at a military hospital or Veteran's home, honor the fallen and their families by joining up with the Patriot Guard Riders on a mission near you, send cards and letters to our troops overseas to show your support, donate to worthy causes such as the Wounded Warrior Project, the Semper Fi Fund, or Soldiers Angels... Let's not forget the original heroes who founded this country and provided us with the foundation for a free America, and let's not forget those who continue to fight today to keep America secure.
Have a safe and fun weekend!

Honor those who gave all...*Updated

2006-06-30T23:55:00.000-05:00

Please join me in remembering those who gave their lives in service to our country in June:

Pfc. Brett L. Tribble, Texas
Maj. Michael D. Stover, Ohio
Staff Sgt. Darren Harmon, Delaware
Cpl. Ryan J. Cummings, Illinois
Petty Officer 1st Class Gary T. Rovinski, Illinois
Sgt. 1st Class Isaac S. Lawson, California
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jaime S. Jaenke, Wisconsin
Sgt. Mark T. Smykowski, Ohio
1st Lt. Ryan T. Sanders, Texas
Sgt. Carlos E. Pernell, Alabama
Sgt. Daniel R. Gionet, New Hampshire
Staff Sgt. Richard A. Blakley, Indiana
Cpl. Andy D. Anderson, Virginia
2nd Lt. John S. Vaughan, Colorado
1st Lt. Scott M. Love, Alabama
Pfc. David N. Crombie, Nevada
Spc. Luis D. Santos, California
Sgt. 1st Class Clarence D. McSwain, Mississippi
Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree , Ohio
Lance Cpl. Brent B. Zoucha, Nebraska
Sgt. Jose M. Velez, New York
Pvt. Benjamin J. Slaven, Nebraska
Lance Cpl. Salvador Guerrero, California
Seaman Apprentice Zachary M. Alday, Georgia
Cpl. Michael A. Estrella, California
Spc. Jeremiah S. Santos, North Dakota
Spc. Brent W. Koch, Minnesota
Pfc. Thomas L. Tucker, Oregon
Pfc. Kristian Menchaca, Texas
Spc. David J. Babineau, Massachusetts
Sgt. Reyes Ramirez, Texas
Spc. Robert L. Jones, Oregon
Cpl. Ryan J. Buckley, Illinois
Staff Sgt. Virrueta A. Sanchez, Texas
Pfc. Paul A. Beyer, North Dakota
Pfc. Devon J. Gibbons, Washington
Spc. Channing G. Singletary, Georgia
Sgt. Jason J. Buzzard, California
Sgt. Sirlou C. Cuaresma, Illinois
Staff Sgt. Mario J. Bievre, Illinois
Pfc. Brian J. Bradbury, Missouri
Staff Sgt. Heathe N. Craig, Maryland
Cpl. Riley E. Baker, Missouri
Master Sgt. Thomas D. Maholic, Pennsylvania
Sgt. Benjamin J. Laymon, Ohio
Sgt. Justin D. Norton, Washington
Cpl. Paul N. King, Massachusetts
Staff Sgt. Raymond J. Plouhar, Michigan
Pfc. Michael J. Potocki, Maryland
Cpl. Ryan J. Clark, California
Cpl. Aaron M. Griner, Florida
Cpl. Jeremy S. Jones, Nebraska
Sgt. 1st Class Terry O.P. Wallace, Louisiana
Pfc. Rex A. Page, Missouri
Cpl. Jason W. Morrow, California
Sgt. Terry M. Lisk, Illinois
Lance Cpl. Nicholas J. Whyte, New York
Cpl. Christopher D. Leon, California
Lance Cpl. Brandon J. Webb, Michigan
Pfc. Christopher N. White, North Carolina
Staff Sgt. Benjamin D. Williams, Texas
Spc. Christopher D. Rose, California
Pfc. Justin R. Davis, Maryland
Sgt. Bryan C. Luckey, Florida
Spc. Kyle Miller, Minnesota
Sgt. James P. Muldoon, Texas

May their sacrifices never be forgotten...

Elks Lodge Collapse: Clinton, MO

2006-06-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

Many of you probably heard or saw on the news, (CNN or Good Morning America, etc.) about a building collapse in the town square of Clinton, Missouri last night. The building, was an Elks Lodge, and had been built in the 1800's. There were around 50 people in the building at the time of the collapse. 40 were able to get out, while 10 more were trapped in the rubble. Today, what is left of the mortar and brick is in a heap where the building once stood, and a community grieves at the loss of the life of one man, Tony Komer. Tony was the 32 year old "exalted ruler" of the Clinton Elks Lodge, and the only one who was killed in the incident-he leaves his wife Sara Jane and 2 sons ages 2 & 5.
You may think it odd that I am including this story in my military support blog, but I assure you that it is with good reason. For those of you who are not familiar with the Elks Organization, they are "The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the USA". They have more than a million members in more than 2,100 local lodges nationwide, and they are very active in Veterans' Services. They show their unwavering commitment to veterans through several projects, including things like their "Adopt-a-Veteran" program, their "Veterans Leather Program", and their program to provide Comfort Care Kits to veterans. They are also dedicated in service as a collecting partner to the Library of Congress for the Veterans' History Project.

The Elks pledge: "So long as there areVeterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks willnever forget them." To learn more about the Elks and how you can volunteer for projects to benefit our nations' veterans, click on any of the above links. Click here to learn more about the Elks Veteran Memorial.

Click here to leave a message of support/encouragement for the family and friends of Tony Komer and the members of the Clinton, Missouri Elks, Lodge #1034.

A memorial fund has been set up asTony Komer Memorial Fund for Tony's children. Donations can be mailed to the bank c/o Citizens Union State Bank P O Box 646 Clinton MO 64735.

Amendment Rejected by 1 Vote

2006-06-27T22:56:00.000-05:00

The constitutional amendment to ban flag desecration failed in the Senate when it was one vote short of the support it needed in order to be sent to the states for ratification today. Opponents of the amendment argued that such a ban would violate the First Amendment right to free speech.
The Senate also rejected a proposal put forth by Dick Durbin, an assistant Democratic leader from Illinois. That proposal would have made it illegal for people to damage the U.S. flag on federal land or with the intent of breaching the peace or intimidation. It also would have prohibited unapproved demonstrations at military funerals.

My question is this --
Where is the line to be drawn?
Is there a compromise -- between defending the constitutional right of protesters to use the flag in nonviolent speech -- and keeping those same protestors from desecrating the flag that so many of our men and women have fought and died under?

Old Glory

2006-06-26T02:14:00.000-05:00

She may be torn and tattered,
But, still our flag flies free;
Bought with a price, she proudly waves,
For all the world to see.
She will not be defeated,
Forever she will stand;
As Liberty, Freedom, and Justice,
Ring throughout this land.
The stars and stripes a symbol,
Of a country who still prays;
In God we trust... Our flag still stands,
America... Home of the Brave.
~Allison Chambers Coxsey, 2001

Check out http://www.flagsacrossthenation.org/

Mental Health Task Force for Armed Forces

2006-06-25T13:33:00.000-05:00

The Department of Defense announced a few days ago the formation of a Mental Health Task Force, congressionally directed, to examine aspects of mental health and our members in the armed forces.

The Mental Health Task Force is to be made up of of seven members of the Department of Defense, and seven others who are not members of the Department of Defense. According to the Department of Defense Press Release, the task force will assess the efficacy of mental health services provided to members of the military by the Department of Defense, and submit a report to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in May 2007 with recommendations for improving upon these services.

The first business meeting is set for next month (mid-July).
Congress directed the establishment of this task force as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2006. It is being co-chaired by Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley, MD, Army Surgeon General, and a non-DoD person to be elected by the task force membership.

Site of the Week

2006-06-21T01:21:00.000-05:00

Code Red* Women for the Troops: Countering the Stench of Code Pink

WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!

In Memory: Brent W. Koch

2006-06-20T02:10:00.000-05:00

Taken from: Associated Press, June 18, 2006

"Spc. Brent W. Koch, 22, of Morton, Minn. died Friday in Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated about 9:30 p.m. Iraq time. Koch was a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard’s Company E, 2nd Battalion, 136th Infantry Combined Arms Battalion based out of Redwood Falls, Minn."
To read the rest of this article, click here.

Two other Guard members, Spc. Gregory Brown and Staff Sgt. Willy Puckett, were injured in the explosion that killed Spc. Koch. To read about these two soldiers and their current situations, click here.

"America's fighting men and women sacrifice much to ensure that our great nation stays free. We owe a debt of gratitude to the soldiers that have paid the ultimate price for this cause, as well as for those who are blessed enough to return from the battlefield unscathed."
~ Allen Boyd

Smoke Break

2006-06-18T04:38:00.000-05:00

Photo of some of the guys from the HHC 1-133rd IN with their cigars sent in a care package from me -- courtesy of an awesome company in New York!

The only flag that doesn't fly...

2006-06-17T02:03:00.000-05:00

Hey all - I received this via an email from my Uncle - very cool...

THE ONLY FLAG THAT DOESN'T FLY
Between the fields where the flag is planted, there are 9+ miles of flower fields that go all the way to the ocean. The flowers are grown by seed companies. It's a beautiful place, close to Vandenberg AFB.
Check out the dimensions of the flag: The Floral Flag is 740 feet long and 390 feet wide and maintains the proper Flag dimensions, as described in Executive Order #10834. This Flag is 6.65 acres and is the first Floral Flag to be planted with 5 pointed Stars, comprised of White Larkspur. Each Star is 24 feet in diameter; each Stripe is 30 feet wide. This Flag is estimated to contain more than 400,000 Larkspur plants, with 4-5 flower stems each, for a total of more than 2 million flowers. You can drive by this flag on V Street south of Ocean Ave. in Lompoc, CA! ..

Aerial photo courtesy of Bill Morson Soldiers' Prayer

A Poem for the Sailor Dad

2006-06-14T01:21:00.000-05:00

My daddy loves me
I already know
He hugs me and kisses me
Please daddy, don't go.
As he leaves our home
On this cold wintery morn
I know that I'll miss him
My heart will be torn.
See my daddy's a sailor
I'm so glad to say
He sails on a ship
Sometimes so far away.
He travels the ocean
And goes to many places
He visits foreign countries
And sees different faces.
My daddy he misses me
He always writes me a letter
To say he'll be home soon
And that all will be better.
I'm counting the days
Until my daddy comes back
When he walks in the door
I will help him unpack.
Oh daddy please hurry
I'm waiting for you
I know you're still out there
On the ocean so blue.
Just sailing and sailing
And sailing the seas
I hope you are coming
Hurry up daddy, please.
It's been a long time
But the day's finally here
When my daddy comes home
I know that he's near.
I watch as his ship
Returns from the sea
We're proud of my daddy
My mommy and me.
He walks off the ship
As proud as can be
He did his part
So we can be free.
I run to my daddy
For a hug and a kiss
He squeezes me so tightly
A squeeze that I miss.
I'm happy my dad's home
Happy as can be
I know he did his job
For my mommy and me.

~Author Unknown

Thought for the day

2006-06-13T01:18:00.000-05:00

"It is the love of country that has lighted and that keeps glowing the holy fire of patriotism."
~ J. Horace McFarland

Preparation is Everything!

2006-06-10T00:33:00.000-05:00

How to Prepare for a Deployment to Iraq

1. Sleep on a cot in the garage.
2. Replace the garage door with a curtain.
3. Three hours after you go to sleep, have your wife or girlfriend whip open the curtain, shine a flashlight in your eyes and mumble, "Sorry, wrong cot."
4. Renovate your bathroom. Hang a green plastic sheet down from the middle of your bathtub and move the shower-head down to chest level. Keep four inches of soapy cold water on the floor. Stop cleaning the toilet and pee everywhere but in the toilet itself. Leave two to three sheets of toilet paper. Or for best effect, remove it altogether. For a more realistic deployed bathroom experience, stop using your bathroom and use a neighbor's. Choose a neighbor who lives at least a quarter mile away.
5. When you take showers, wear flip-flops and keep the lights off.
6. Every time there is a thunderstorm, go sit in a wobbly rocking chair and dump dirt on your head.
7. Put lube oil in your humidifier instead of water and set it on "HIGH" for that tactical generator smell.
8. Don't watch TV except for movies in the middle of the night. Have your family vote on which movie to watch and then show a different one.
9. Leave a lawnmower running in your living room 24 hours a day for proper noise level.
10. Have the paperboy give you a haircut.
11. Once a week, blow compressed air up through your chimney making sure the wind carries the soot across and on to your neighbor's house. Laugh at him when he curses you.
12. Buy a trash compactor and only use it once a week. Store up garbage in the other side of your bathtub.
13. Wake up every night at midnight and have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on a saltine cracker.
14. Make up your family menu a week ahead of time without looking in your food cabinets or refrigerator. Then serve some kind of meat in an unidentifiable sauce poured over noodles. Do this for every meal.
15. Set your alarm clock to go off at random times during the night. When it goes off, jump out of bed and get to the shower as fast as you can. Simulate there is no hot water by running out into your yard and breaking out the garden hose.
16. Once a month, take every major appliance completely apart and put it back together again.
17. Use 18 scoops of coffee per pot and allow it to sit for five or six hours before drinking.
18. Invite at least 185 people you don't really like because of their strange hygiene habits to come and visit for a couple of months. Exchange clothes with them.
19. Have a fluorescent lamp installed on the bottom of your coffee table and lie under it to read books.
20. Raise the thresholds and lower the top sills of your front and back doors so that you either trip over the threshold or hit your head on the sill every time you pass through one of them.
21. Keep a roll of toilet paper on your night stand and bring it to the bathroom with you. And bring your gun and a flashlight.
22. Go to the bathroom when you just have to pass gas, "just in case." Every time.
23. Announce to your family that they have mail, have them report to you as you stand outside your open garage door after supper and then say, "Sorry, it's for the other Smith."
24. Wash only 15 items of laundry per week. Roll up the semi-wet clean clothes in a ball. Place them in a cloth sack in the corner of the garage where the cat pees. After a week, unroll them and without ironing or removing the mildew, proudly wear them to professional meetings and family gatherings. Pretend you don't know what you look or smell like. Enthusiastically repeat the process for another week.
25. Go to the worst crime-infested place you can find, go heavily armed, wearing a flak jacket and a Kevlar helmet. Set up shop in a tent in a vacant lot. Announce to the residents that you are there to help them.
26. Eat a single M&M every Sunday and convince yourself it's for Malaria.
27. Demand each family member be limited to 10 minutes per week for a morale phone call. Enforce this with your teenage daughter.
28. Shoot a few bullet holes in the walls of your home for proper ambiance.
29. Sandbag the floor of your car to protect from mine blasts and fragmentation.
30. While traveling down roads in your car, stop at each overpass and culvert and inspect them for remotely detonated explosives before proceeding
31. Fire off 50 cherry bombs simultaneously in your driveway at 3:00 a.m. When startled neighbors appear, tell them all is well, you are just registering mortars. Tell them plastic will make an acceptable substitute for their shattered windows.
32. Drink your milk and sodas warm.
33. Spread gravel throughout your house and yard.
34. Make your children clear their Super Soakers in a clearing barrel you placed outside the front door before they come in.
35. Make your family dig a survivability position with overhead cover in the back yard. Complain that the 4x4s are not 8 inches on center and make them rebuild it.
36. Continuously ask your spouse to allow you to go buy an M-Gator.
37. When your 5-year-old asks for a stick of gum, have him find the exact stick and flavor he wants on the Internet and print out the web page. Type up an 1149 and staple the web page to the back. Submit the paperwork to your spouse for processing. After two weeks, give your son the gum.
38. Announce to your family that the dog is a vector for disease and shoot it. Throw the dog in a burn pit you dug in your neighbor's back yard.
39. Wait for the hottest day of the year and announce to your family that there will be no air conditioning that day so you can perform much needed maintenance on the air conditioner. Tell them you are doing this so they won't get hot.
40. Just when you think you're ready to resume a normal life, order yourself to repeat this process for another six months to simulate the next deployment you've been ordered to support.

Author Unknown

Version 2 of Tribute

2006-06-08T01:00:00.000-05:00

Tribute to the Troops

"Tribute To The Troops"...

Thanks Josh!

2006-06-08T00:57:00.000-05:00

US Military Tribute Montage

Found this great video "Tribute To The Troops" thanks to Lil Josh Wright -- enjoy!

p.s. Sorry about the lapse in posts - Blogger has been down due to maintenance.

Site of the Week

2006-06-05T12:58:00.000-05:00

Hey all, just wanted to share with you the site of the week! Check out "Justice Soldier" . I love the way he writes, he seems to have a great sense of humor despite his surroundings -- and here is an excerpt from one of his recent blogs:

"We are experiencing a new insurgent tactic in this area of Iraq and I wanted to tell you all first- Al Qaeda has implanted a terrorist pigeon that apparently has a bounty on my head- at least some nights when I am walking to use the bathroom at about 3am and I walk too close to her nest that is about 8 feet high- she gives me a close fly-by to scare me…she is a perfect 4 and 0, as she has gotten me every time, a few of them almost making me p#$#$p my pants! I hope the CIA or someone is getting onto this stuff before something bad happens…"

http://www.justicesoldier.com/

P.S. "Justice Soldier" aka SFC Smith, is a REDBULL soldier! HOOAH!

Redbull Video Clips

2006-06-03T16:39:00.000-05:00

Check out these clips, sent to me by a Redbull friend. They're pretty interesting!

Special Report: Iowans in Iraq
by Doug Grindle, KCRG-TV9 News Correspondent

Special Report: Iowans in Iraq - Life at Camp
by Doug Grindle, KCRG-TV9 News Correspondent

Special Report: Iowans in Iraq-The Heat
by Douglas Grindle, KCRG-TV9 News Correspondent

Tribute pages:

2006-05-31T17:38:00.000-05:00

Please take a moment and leave a message for my Redbulls friends -- they not only appreciate your encouragement and support -- they NEED it.

Jason Fink
http://www.projo.com/cgi-bin/extra/terror/tribute/view.cgi?id=14852

and Troy Fields
http://www.projo.com/cgi-bin/extra/terror/tribute/view.cgi?id=15059

Letter to a soldier...

2006-05-31T15:56:00.000-05:00

Dear soldier,

I've been thinking about you a lot today, as I do every day. I've seen the news, and I've read the newspapers...
I know how you told me before you left, not to put my trust in the mainstream media, and to always question that which they display as fact...but it is hard when I haven't heard from you in weeks, and when I worry so much about your well-being.

They say that no news is good news, and unless I am a recipient of the dreaded home visit, you know the one to which I am referring, or unless I hear otherwise, that I should take comfort in knowing you are out there somewhere, fulfilling your obligations, manning your weapon, surviving your missions... I try to take comfort in this, as I know that there are so many whose loved ones have not come home, whose seat at the dinner table will be empty in years to come, whose children will never feel their arms around them again...

And yet, I still sit here. Day after day, I sit here and I stare out the window, and I stare at the four walls around me, and I pray to God that today will be the day that I hear from you, and that I will find comfort in your words, however brief they may be. I pray that you will have the strength and the stamina and the necessities you need to be successful in your duties...

I think about this war, and those who have given their lives in sacrifice for our freedoms, defending our country, standing up for what is right, and fighting to the death to help another country cultivate the same sense of security in their own land. I think about them, and I applaud them, and my heart breaks for them, and yet I am selfish -- I do not want you to become one of them...

I want to be strong for you, and I want you to be proud of me, that I am not falling apart in your absence. I portray to you when I am able to, that I am a rock, although inside there are times when I am crumbling...

I hear songs on the radio that remind me of you... I sing along and try to hold the tears back as the same melodies that we sang together to, danced to, lived by... haunt me...

I see photographs of us together... times gone by that remind me how special you are... how very unique you are... and how very much I want to have more photos like this taken in the future...

I drive down familiar roads, and pass by familiar places, where you and I have been together, and I feel so very small and alone there without you now...

The truth of it all, is that I miss you.
I miss our conversations, from the mundane, to the comical, to the extreme...
I miss your face. I miss looking into your eyes and seeing myself in their reflection...
I miss your smile.. the way your mouth turns up at the corners and your warmth radiates the room and permeates my soul...
I miss your laughter... I miss the way the sound of it makes even good times better...
I miss your arms holding me close and letting me know that everything is going to be okay...

I miss you...

Love,
me

Trucker Tribute!

2006-05-30T14:15:00.000-05:00

I received this in an email from a friend and I had never seen it before --
These are photos from a trucker who has painted his cab and trailer with the names of all those who lost their lives in 9/11.

The trucker's name is John Holmgren from Shafer, Minn.

The trucker has been "pulled over" numerous times just so the troopers can get their picture taken with the truck.

A huge thank you John Holmgren, wherever you are, for this fantastic tribute -- and a thank you to my friend Jolene in Oak Harbor, Washington for the chance to share this with others!

Memorial Day '06: We Remember

2006-05-27T16:02:00.000-05:00

Memorial Day...
On this special day we remember those who gave their lives that we might live free...

How many of you know the story behind the Buddy Poppies that are seen everywhere in the Spring? My first recollection of these bright red paper flowers is from when I was a small child, and in the Spring my grandpa would always buy me a handful of the poppies and tell me that they were special flowers to help special people.

I didn't understand then, the way that I do now.

'The red poppy became associated with war after the publication of a poem by Canadian war veteran, Colonel John McCrae titled, "In Flanders Fields".

The VFW conducted its first poppy distribution before Memorial Day in 1922, becoming the first veterans' organization to organize a nationwide distribution. The poppy soon was adopted as the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

It was during the 1923 encampment that the VFW decided that VFW Buddy Poppies be assembled by disabled and needy veterans who would be paid for their work to provide them with some form of financial assistance. The plan was formally adopted during the VFW's 1923 encampment. The next year, disabled veterans at the Buddy Poppy factory in Pittsburgh assembled VFW Buddy Poppies. The designation "Buddy Poppy" was adopted at that time.

In February 1924, the VFW registered the name "Buddy Poppy" with the U.S. Patent Office. A certificate was issued on May 20, 1924, granting the VFW all trademark rights in the name of Buddy under the classification of artificial flowers. The VFW has made that trademark a guarantee that all poppies bearing that name and the VFW label are genuine products of the work of disabled and needy veterans. No other organization, firm or individual can legally use the name "Buddy" Poppy.

Today, VFW Buddy Poppies are still assembled by disabled and needy veterans in VA Hospitals.'
(Info taken from VFW Official Website)

As a child, I didn't understand the symbolism of these simply crafted red flowers. I only knew that my grandpa told me they were very special. Grandpa was a veteran, having served in World War II, so I guess he knew what he was talking about. I lost my grandpa several years ago, but every Spring when I see the brilliantly red poppies, I think of him, and of all those who have given so much for me and for you.

To learn more -- click on the VFW or the Buddy Poppy Program

In Flanders Fields
By John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead.
Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow.
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe;
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch, be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Combat Diary: The Marines of Lima Company

2006-05-26T18:12:00.000-05:00

There was a very moving documentary on A&E yesterday called "Combat Diary: The Marines of Lima Company". For those of you who missed it -- check your programming and try to catch it when it comes back around. It was absolutely incredible.

For more info on this powerful and captivating piece, featuring video shot by the Marines of Lima Company themselves -- click here.

Cool Pic

2006-05-22T00:30:00.000-05:00

Basically, I got a great email today from a friend of mine who is also a proud supporter of our troops. This photo was attached to the forward and I really liked it. Not sure whose graphic it is, so I can't give credit, but thought it was worth sharing.

As you start your week today -- please keep in mind the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who are putting their lives on the line so that you don't have to fear being attacked by terrorists when you walk out your front door.

Really Cool Picture...

2006-05-19T00:34:00.000-05:00

Not sure who the artist of this is, but I love this picture...wanted to share...

Makes me think of Fields, Bope, and Bari...

Hardy Har...

2006-05-17T01:44:00.000-05:00

“If women ran the world we wouldn't have wars, just intense negotiations every 28 days.” ~Robin Williams

“Being in the army is like being in the Boy Scouts, except that the Boy Scouts have adult supervision.” ~Blake Clark

PGR Update for Pvt Al Gaylord services...

2006-05-15T04:20:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to put up a post to let you all know that I have received confirmation from both the family and the Central Missouri Ride Captain -- the Patriot Guard Riders will be there to show their support in honor of Pvt Al Gaylord.

This Mission Ride has three parts:
Funeral in Carrollton; Escort Ride from Carrollton to Lebanon (165 miles, with one fuel stop at Warsaw); and Burial at Lebanon. Ride Captain is Big Dog. Assemble at the VFW, 104 Walnut Drive in Carrollton. Please arrive early, to sign ride waivers (required for this Mission Ride). Mission Briefing at 0800, kickstands up at 0815.

For more info click here.

Ride safe.

Alva "Al" Gaylord

2006-05-14T19:01:00.000-05:00

I apologize for the lapse, just found out that a family member's brother in law was killed in Iraq on May 5th.

Alva "Al" Gaylord belonged to the 110th Engineer Battalion, Missouri Army National Guard. He died of injuries sustained when a roadside bomb detonated near his RG-31 Mine Protected Vehicle during a combat clearing operation in Qasr Ar Riyy, Iraq. He was 25 years old and from Carrollton, Missouri.

For those of you in the area I will post visitation and funeral information as soon as I receive details.

Please keep his family and friends in your prayers.
Alva "Al" Gaylord

Calling all patriotic souls...

2006-05-12T01:15:00.000-05:00

Hey there fellow milbloggers and friends,

I am writing to ask for your support as I begin a new project on behalf of my deployed friends. Most of you are already familiar with my blog, and I thank all of you who have come by and checked it out and left your feedback. I have started a new project and need your help.
I am trying to get together a bunch of cards to send over to Iraq to give to the Redbull soldiers, aka Desert Bulls, that my blog was started in honor of.
These men and women deserve the best support that we can offer them, and I am asking that you will help me to honor them this Independence Day by assisting me in filling care packages to them with cards and letters of support, hope, and thanks. I realize that this doesn't give everyone a lot of time to go out and buy cards or write letters, but it is important enough to me that I know I have to try. If you are willing to help me to honor these men and women please send all cards and letters for them to me so I can pass them on.

~proudfan

The sooner the better! If you are willing and able to help out - please send all cards and letters to me at the following address by June 16th:

Tabitha McCoy
PO Box 143
Chilhowee, MO 64733

p.s. While I've got your attention -- head over to Kat's site at YIKES! and help her fulfill her needs for Operation: Thanks For Freedom.

Breaking Down Walls

2006-05-11T00:55:00.000-05:00

I found another quite interesting post.
This one is courtesy of Tim at t.f. boggs .
He has given me permission to repost it and share it with you all. The following goes into detail about some of his personal experiences while deployed in Iraq, including showing the reader a glimpse of what it has been like working alongside some Iraqi Army soldiers. My thanks to Tim for sharing this with me.

BREAKING DOWN WALLS:
"The past week I have been surrounded by 18-50 year old Sunni Iraqis and have lived to tell about it. In this racially profiling type of world that we live in these men are terrorists hell bent on the destruction of the Western world, but in my new world I have a different view of these guys. Who are these Iraqis you may be asking? My new best friends.

I changed jobs last week after my previous mission was handed over to civilians. I am currently working guarding my base and am surprisingly enjoying myself. I work with 3 other American soldiers and a handful of Iraqi army soldiers (IA). Part of my day is spent controlling the flow of traffic in and out of the base and the rest of it is spent hanging out with the Iraqi soldiers learning Arabic, drinking tea, and smoking hookahs. I joke around with the IA saying that we should call it school instead of work since we spend the majority of our day learning from each other.

I am not a big fan of my new job but the interaction with the IA and local Iraqis more then make up for the dullness of the work. I have met numerous local civilians in my area who are more concerned with getting rid of the terrorists in their neighborhoods then they are with their own safety. Each time they give us information to the whereabouts and activities of terrorists in our area they risk not only their lives but also the lives of their family. I work in an area where the IA are locally born and raised and the civilians do what they can to help the Americans root out the bad guys, and all of this in a Sunni town.

I know a lot of people would caution me not to put my complete trust in my new friends, and while I believe they are somewhat right, I would say that they would have to come to Iraq and see these guys for themselves. I have only been around the soldiers for a week and already I have wrestled with them in a guard shack, been beaten in an arm wrestling contest, shared food off the same plate, and smoked out of the same pipe with them. I joke around with them in Arabic and call them my brothers and they always reply in English with a resounding “Yes, very good.”

Because of the obvious language barrier with some of the IA our conversations are limited until one of the interpreters has time to translate for us. Most of the time the soldiers want to know if we have wives and children back home. When I tell them I don’t they want to know why and then question me about my age. I explain to them that if I didn’t spend the better part of the last 4 years in Iraq then I might have a better chance at finding a “Madame” as they say. They find it fascinating that we are able to date for long periods of time and can have more then one girlfriend before getting married. I guess I better get started finding a wife and having kids because if I come back here then I will be better able to relate. “Yes we don’t make enough, and yes my baby needs food too, and yes the wife wants new shoes and a purse too. Life is tough but we do what we can right?”

They are just as eager to bring me anything that I might need as I am to do the same for them. One soldier even invited me to dinner with his family and I look forward to going as soon as I am able to. They have the same gripes and complaints that American soldiers do: they are underpaid, underappreciated, and definitely know how to do things better then their commanders do. They complain about their food, clothes, and rules they have to follow. All soldiers are the same apparently.

Not everything about the IA in my area is hunky dory though. Most of the soldiers don’t like the Kurds or Shiites. They think the Kurds should leave Iraq and get their own country and are wary of the Shiites because they remember the long war against Iran that their fathers fought. They are extremely nationalistic and tend to look down upon foreigners in their country. However, I do encourage them by making fun of the Turkish workers here who can’t seem to fix things properly the first time and have to keep coming back again and again for the same problems.

Overall I enjoy spending my time learning about the Iraqi soldiers’ culture and lives. I enjoy their acceptance of my soldiers and I and am thankful that I am able to see them with my own eyes as people with cares and needs. They aren’t crazed terrorists like the media would have you believe. They want to make the most of the opportunity that they have right now. They realize that now is the time for them to decided their own fate and they are acting accordingly by showing bravery and courage in the face of certain danger. They are our allies and although they don’t agree with us on everything they do agree with us on one key point; freedom is the best answer and if Iraq is ever going to be truly free then they have to get rid of the terrorists in their towns and make a stand while they still can. Their future is in their own hands and from what I have seen so far I would say that their future looks bright."
(as posted by T. F. Boggs)

My Redbulls -- Update

2006-05-10T12:17:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update to let you all know how happy I am to have heard from my friends who are Redbulls deployed with the 1/34th BCT and currently in Iraq. Everyone seems to be doing well. I've been told that so far their missions have been successful, and no one has been seriously injured. Keywords appear to be "camels", "HOT", and "sand".
Please keep my Redbull friends in your thoughts as they continue to serve our country and fulfill their varied duties in Iraq, including Fink, Croson, Fields, Bari, Reineke, Morrison, Inserrea, Ring, Bleuer, Smith, Fletcher, Greiner, and others from the 1/34th BCT, including those from units 1/133rd INF, 2-136 CAB, 1-125 STRIKE, 134 BSB, 1-34 BTB, and the 1-167 RSTA.

These men and women need your support and encouragement.

Selling Our Sovereignty

2006-05-10T12:08:00.000-05:00

I would like to share this. I received it in an email from CJ. Many of you know CJ and are familiar with CJ as the author of A Soldier's Perspective. I am interested in any comments or responses you might have regarding this post.
~Tab (aka proudfan)

..."whether you're Democrat or Republican, Legal or Illegal, Immigrant or Native, Left or Right, this is just plain wrong. Why is the US government reporting the whereabouts of AMERICAN CITIZENS to a FOREIGN GOVERNMENT?!! Unless you live in a bubble (or don't watch the news, which is more plausible), you've heard about the minutemen project along our border with Mexico. The goal of the minutemen is to monitor the border for evidence or indications of illegal border crossings and report it to the Border Patrol. They are not supposed to actively engage the border crossers or commit any crimes themselves.
"According to three documents on the Mexican Secretary of Foreign Relations Web site, the U.S. Border Patrol is to notify the Mexican government as to the location of Minutemen and other civilian border patrol groups when they participate in apprehending illegal immigrants -- and if and when violence is used against border crossers." If this wasn't infuriating enough, since when does the MEXICAN government dictate US policy to us?! WE ARE A SOVEREIGN NATION!! Mexico depends on us more than we depend on them. Why are we allowing them to tell us what our policy is or is not with respect to our borders?
Ladies and gentlemen, this type of policy demands a letter to our elected representatives, whether you like them or not. I'm not telling you what to write because you may disagree with me. Whether you agree or disagree, our elected officials need to know our feelings about this issue. If you like the policy of reporting American locations to a foreign government, then tell your Congressman to make sure the program continues. If you agree with me that this is an egregious assault on our privacy and the freedoms we enjoy (and I fight for) in this country, write your Congressman and tell him/her.
Personally, when I write my Congressman I'm gonna feel bad because I've been writing him a lot lately. I told myself I would give him some air and stop writing so much (about immigration, Iraq, gas prices, etc). But, I can't let this pass. The second amendment to our Constitution guarantees to us a "well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State." I have no idea if this is against some sort of law or not, but I do know that it's against the law (Title 10, US Code) for the military to spy on American citizens. I'm sure that goes for the rest of the federal government as well, I just don't know where to look.
If you want to know a little more about what the law of the land is with regard to illegal immigration, read the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 . Why isn't our government enforcing its own laws? Okay, that is a whole other topic. But, as a soldier I see this as a national security issue. We're fighting an enemy who KNOWS our southern border is easy to cross.
Okay, I'm all worked up now. I better end this now.-- CJ
A Soldier's Perspective http://www.soldiersperspective.us/

1/34 BTB (GO REDBULLS!)

2006-05-09T01:12:00.000-05:00

A group of soldiers from the 1/34 BTB pictured at the Ziggurat of Ur on 6 May 2006 following the Combat Patch Ceremony held by the 1/34 BCT command.

(Photo courtesy of Redbull Web)

Dan Bari 134th BSB

2006-05-07T12:22:00.000-05:00

Just a highlight of one of our favorite soldiers -- photo and caption courtesy of Redbull Web.
You may recognize him as Emily's husband - Emily has a great site too! Check it out!

Staff Sgt Daniel Bari, 134th BSB, nears the finish line
of the Boston/Iraq Marathon April 15.

It's Been Said

2006-05-06T02:56:00.000-05:00

"The liberties of our country, the freedom of our civil Constitution, are worth defending at all hazards; and it is our duty to defend them against all attacks. We have received them as a fair inheritance from our worthy ancestors: they purchased them for us with toil and danger and expense of treasure and blood, and transmitted them to us with care and diligence. It will bring an everlasting mark of infamy on the present generation, enlightened as it is, if we should suffer them to be wrested from us by violence without a struggle, or to be cheated out of them by the artifices of false and designing men." -Samuel Adams

The Blood Of Heroes

2006-05-05T00:02:00.000-05:00

Remember the Blood of Heroes. http://www.fdnylodd.com/BloodofHeroes.html

Moussaoui Verdict

2006-05-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been all over the news for two days now -- Moussaoui has been sentenced to life in prison for the part he played as a conspirator in the 9/11 attacks in the U.S. Many are torn over the verdict, some angry that he was not given the death penalty instead. Moussaoui will spend the rest of his days in solitary confinement at the only Super Maximum Security prison in the United States, located in Colorado. At one point in the proceedings, Moussaoui hissed, "God curse America, and God save Osama bin Laden! You will never get him!" Even after he had been sentenced, Moussaoui continued to spit his vile insults in the courtroom, telling the judge and jury, "America, you lost! . . . I won!". His comment was met with disdain by Judge Leonie M. Brinkema, who according to reporteers replied by saying, "You came here to be a martyr and to die in a big bang of glory, but to paraphrase the poet T.S. Eliot, you will die with a whimper."

I am not interested in stirring up a huge political debate -- but I am curious about your opinons due to all of the controversy that has been sparked by this verdict. Do you think Moussaoui should have been sentenced to death? Or is the life sentence fitting? I'm just curious what some of you make of the situation...

Site of the Week

2006-05-04T13:04:00.000-05:00

The site of the week this week is:
No End But Victory

Check it out!

America Salutes the Military

2006-05-03T11:39:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to CJ for emailing me about this -- this is awesome!

In the latest Edition of the Army Times, there was an insert called "America Salutes the Military". In this section, were a bunch of quotes that American celebrities and other notables have shared their thoughts about our military men and women. After going to the site and reading all of the incredible things there - I wanted to share some of them with you.

"Throughout my adult life, I have always tried to acknowledge the debt I owe to my military experience, for allowing me to serve my country and for instilling within me strong moral fiber and self-discipline. These qualities have served me well in a film and television career where I have played many heroic characters. Today, more than ever, the inspiration for the parts I play is found in you - our nation's men and women in uniform - and the selfless contributions you make on a daily basis to keep our country safe and free. I salute you. I thank you. And I wish you Godspeed and a safe return home."
- Chuck Norris, Actor

"I just want to tell the troops that I'm with them 110 percent, and I know that they're doing a good thing. Don't listen to the skeptics; continue to do what you do. We need these brave soldiers to fight for our way of life. And the fact that they have the nuts to do that is just unbelievable to me. Tell everyone I said "Git-R-Done.""- --Larry the Cable Guy, Blue-collar comedian

"As the driver of the Team Marines NASCAR Busch Series team, I have had the honor to meet many Marines. I want to take this time to thank every one of them for their service to our country. The sacrifices they make allow us to spend our time racing these cars and entertaining the folks back at home. On behalf of the entire NASCAR community, I want to thank not only the Marines but all the other members of our armed services for their hard work and service to the United States."
- Ashton Lewis Jr., Driver, No. 25 Team Marines; NASCAR Busch Series

"I want to thank you for serving our country. What you're doing is a noble cause; we are fighting the terrorism in the world wherever you are. I've traveled this country coast to coast just about every year, and the support for the military is out there and it's very strong."
- Charlie Daniels, Country music artist

"I have a deep admiration for the military troops. These are brave individuals who leave their families to protect our country and the future of America. It takes an incredible personal commitment and true selflessness to face the dangers and challenges our troops face every day. While a lot of athletes talk about going to war, the soldiers know firsthand the true meaning of this."
- Oscar De La Hoya, Professional boxer

"I've worked with the military through my field of entertainment for almost 50 years. I recognized early on that these men and women possessed a quality that few Americans would ever know - the pride in knowing they wore the uniform of the greatest nation on earth. Regardless of the mission, they execute their duties with dignity and precision. We have come to expect no less from our men and women in uniform and they have risen to the challenge. ... For every young man and woman who has stepped up to fill the shoes of those before them, and for every family who has given their support to their son and daughter who have become part of our military, a grateful nation says thank you."
- Lee Greenwood, Country music singer

"It's not an understatement to say that the visit we had with our wounded troops was one of the most emotional experiences we have ever had, and one that we will never forget. "Inspirational" is a word that springs to mind, but it really doesn't do justice to the feelings we experienced that day hanging out with those brave guys. Of course, we would do it again in a heartbeat."
- Dusty Hill, ZZ Top bassist

"For all you do ... this Bud's for you! Stay strong, God bless and thank you for allowing me to "keep on kid rockin' in the free world!""
- Kid Rock, Rock/rap musician

"While we were in Torino. I got a lot of good e-mails of support from people who were deployed and it was really motivating to hear those words from them over there and how proud they were of us. It's really hard to explain to people how proud we are of them. We're representing them, trying to do our best, and their job is much more difficult and a lot harder than people can imagine. I was real proud to represent them and really happy to be able to show what the U.S. Army is about in the Olympic Games and around the world."
- Spc. Steve Holcomb, Driver, U.S. Olympic Men's Bobsled team; Utah National Guardsman

"We can't tell [the troops] - and we try to - what they mean to us and what they mean to our country. ... We're proud of you no matter where you are. We're proud that you're serving your country. It really is a great duty to serve your country ... we don't want [you] to feel overlooked. [You] signed up and are serving our country. What an honor it is for me to be around you and your service. The one thing that I never heard was a complaint from any soldier. We've met thousands. They never said, "I wish we weren't here." They all know their goal, [and] they accept it with a lot of pride and honor."
- Neal McCoy, Country music singer

You guys make us proud. You have our eternal thanks, love and respect. Stay safe."
- John Mellencamp, Rock musician

"I went to Afghanistan. It was probably one of the best experiences of my life just to go there. It was just a wonderful opportunity to give back. For me personally, I don't have any [family] in the war. I didn't how much hard work they're doing over there. I got an up-close and personal view of what they're dong every day, facing attack and changing the lives of the Afghani people. [The troops] all believe they are doing the right thing. It makes me feel better here that they're there. We had, like, three of the troops that were personal escorts. We bonded and got along so well. It was such an emotional experience. I remember all the awards and medals and patches they gave us for being over there. They were just excited for us to be over there. When I got back on the plane I was crying. First and foremost, [you're] so brave ... thank you. Just know that we really do appreciate what you do over there. I could see firsthand the hard work they do over there ... I'm just so thankful for the bravery of the men and women serving."
- Candace Michelle, WWE Raw star; 'Playboy' model

"My visit to the J. Walter Reed hospital was powerful, inspiring and life-altering. ... I have a deep respect and great concern for them, not just while they bravely put themselves in harm's way, but also when they come home, that whenever and however needed, they have appropriate support systems for themselves and their families. ... We owe them this. We owe them our gratitude and more."
- Michael Bolton, Pop singer

"I would like to salute all U.S. service men and women who risk their lives every day to protect and serve our country. You are an inspiration to every American - regardless of race, class or profession. Having been raised in a military family, I can greatly appreciate the dedication, strength and courage it takes to do your jobs. Many sports fans look up to me because of how well I play basketball. But I look up to all armed service men and women for their sacrifice and unselfish characteristics. You are the true heroes and heroines, and Officer O'Neal salutes you."
- Shaquille O'Neal, NBA player, Miami Heat; special U.S. deputy marshal

"It was a very humbling experience visiting the wounded troops. I was very nervous about meeting them. Usually it's the other way around and people sometimes get nervous about meeting me. I didn't know what to expect, but I was really struck by their incredible spirit and pride. We should treat these kids bigger than rock stars for what they've done for us."
- Ozzy Osbourne, Lead singer, Black Sabbath, solo heavy-metal star

"Without the military and the people who serve this country, we would not play and enjoy the games we love. We hear the words "role model" used often in professional sports, but this is just a game - a form of entertainment. Our military risk their lives to ensure our freedom and way of life. To me, there are no greater role models to follow. I am grateful for their service and for the sacrifices they make for this country."
- Mariano Rivera, MLB pitcher, New York Yankees

"To the men and women who have answered the call to serve this country by joining the military, I salute you. My hat is raised in honor of you and my heart is open for you. Defending all our freedom from places both near and foreign is the ultimate civic duty, and I applaud you. You are the ones we think about and praise when we sing, "I need a soldier." You and your families are constantly in our prayers and we continue to thank God for each and every one of you. Stay blessed."
- Kelly Rowland, R&B singer, Destiny's Child

"I can honestly say that the work I have done with the USO has been some of the best work of my life. But to say it is work would be doing it a disservice. It is not work. It is a rewarding pleasure to support our service members and I am honored to be able to do it. ... When visiting Landstuhl Medical Center, Bethesda Naval Hospital and Walter Reed, I met many our brave wounded soldiers and Marines and saw first hand how dedicated our doctors and nurses are to these service members and their families."
- Gary Sinise, Actor, 'CSI: New York'

"We want to salute all the members of the armed services for their dedication to the protection of our country. Often we take for granted that the protection they provide allows us to work and play at home without fear ... Every race, I get to meet men and women from the Marine Corps and thank them for all they do for our country."
- Regan Smith, Driver, No. 35 Team (McDonald's), NASCAR Busch Series

"The whole country is behind you! We thank you for your service!"
- Mort Walker, Cartoonist, creator of Beetle Bailey

"I am just a country boy and I really love this land, from the mountains of Montana to the Alabama sand. You are the men and women who have fought for the freedom that we all take for granted. I am proud to be an American and proud of all of you. Just remember, America will survive!"
- Hank Williams Jr., Country music singer

Click here to read more!

UNITED 93 Film

2006-04-28T03:36:00.000-05:00

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FILM TRAILER

The much anticipated and highly controversial film, UNITED 93, hits theatres today across the country. The film, directed by British filmmaker, Paul Greengrass, tells the story of United Airlines Flight 93 from Newark, NJ to San Francisco California on September 11, 2001.

The families of the 40 passengers who were killed on the real United Flight 93 cooperated in the production of the film, offering Greengrass detailed background information about their loved ones to help with the film -- down to the clothes they wore and what kind of candy they might've snacked upon on the plane. Victims' families were among the first to see "United 93" at screenings set up for them by Universal Pictures, who is distributing the film. Universal reportedly plans to donate 10 percent of the first weekend's box-office grosses to the Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville, Pa., where the plane crashed.

Here's what a few critics had to say about this film:

NewsMax (4/14/06) – “Rush Limbaugh Praises 'United 93' Movie” – “America's number one talk-radio host, Rush Limbaugh, is giving an enthusiastic thumbs up to the controversial new 9/11 movie, ‘United 93.’ Limbaugh said on Friday's broadcast that critics are wrong when they say it's too soon to revisit the events of Sept. 11, 2001.”

Los Angeles Times (4/18/06) – “It’s Time We Looked” by Patrick Goldstein – Article encourages viewers to see United 93 with an open mind.

Hollywood Elsewhere (4/12/06) – “Blown Away” by Jeffrey Wells – “Is Paul Greengrass's ‘United 93’ (Universal, 4.28) a knockout, a time-stopper, a mind-blower? It sure as hell is . . . Is feeling power-drilled all over again by one of the worst real-life nightmares of all time a good thing? To me, it is. It happened, it's real, and this film knocks your socks off because it takes you right back to that surreal morning and that feeling, that almost-afraid-to-breathe feeling, and to me, that's partly what good films do -- they lift you out of your realm and make you forget about everything but what's on-screen.”

Writer/director/producer Paul Greengrass with the cast and crew of Universal Pictures’ unflinching drama United 93.

Freedom Tower

2006-04-27T17:26:00.000-05:00

According to an article published today by MSNBC.com, work is beginning at the WTC site in New York City on the new Freedom Tower. The Freedom Tower will be the tallest building in New York City.
The Freedom Tower is the skyscraper that has been designed to replace the World Trade Center. It is to be symbolic of America's freedom and independence, and will cast a beam of light from its peak.
You can read more about it at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12513193/

This is an artist's rendering of a night view of the proposed Freedom Tower, center, by architect Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, as seen from the south at night, released by the Lower Manhattan Development Corp., in New York. At left are the Empire State Building, and Statue of Liberty. (Photo courtesy of Associated Press.)

Site of the Week

2006-04-26T12:10:00.000-05:00

The site of the week is a blog by a Redbull soldier they call T-Dawg. He's been deployed to Iraq and is a medic, and he posts pretty regularly to share the happenings around him. It isn't a political blog - it's more of a collection of posts for family and friends. In it you will catch a glimpse of this man's humor and insightfulness. It's a fun read. Catch up with T-Dawg and have a great day!

Happy Birthday!

2006-04-24T03:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to a great guy and my favorite soldier -- SPC Fink.
We're thinking of you today and celebrating your special day like I promised we would.
Hope you are safe out there in the sandbox and know that you are loved and remembered today and every day.

p.s. Can't wait to have you back so we can celebrate together.

You know your husband is deployed to Iraq when...

2006-04-21T10:37:00.000-05:00

I borrowed this with permission from Kelly at The Patriette because I enjoyed reading it so much that I thought you should read it too.

You know your husband is deployed to Iraq when...

The toilet seat is always down.
The leftovers are still sitting in the fridge.
You only have one load of laundry to do - and it doesn't contain any PT clothes.
You sit up all night just in case he happens to log onto IM.
You find yourself carrying home a stack of those customs forms from the post office because you know you'll need them later.
You sleep with your cell phone because there's always a chance if you put it on the table on the other side of the room, you'll miss his phone call.
Keeping your legs shaved on a regular basis is no longer a top priority. (Sorry if that's TMI for some of you out there...)
You're already trying to decide what to wear on the day he comes home - and that's within five minutes of when he left.
Homecoming has nothing to do with football, parades, alumni, or dances.
You notice bumper stickers more often and wonder about the story of the person driving the car - do they have a friend or family member deployed with your husband? Hmmm. (I find that especially true when I see another blue star displayed somewhere.)
Every time you go to check the time, you do math in your head to figure out what time it is over there.
Each time you get to turn a new page on your calendar, a little voice says, "YES - another one down..."
Every unknown number that shows up on your phone inspires excitement (it could be him)!
Someone says "Iraq" (no matter what the context), it immediately becomes personal.
You can watch all your favorite tv shows - without having to follow the storylines between quarters, halves, innings, or periods.
Checking your email every hour becomes normal.
The folks at the post office recognize you and know your name.
A sandstorm in Iraq can ruin your whole day (or at least when they cause your phone call to be dropped).
You experience random moments of crying for no particular reason (of course in my case, that might be due to pregnancy as well).
And last but not least: The best birthday gift you can get is a phone call. And that's what I got today. Josh hasn't been able to call in 2 weeks thanks to his workload and a sandstorm, but he did manage to get through today - my birthday. We talked for a few minutes and we didn't have much to say, but it was a good way to start my day.

Thank you Kelly!

Current Missions

2006-04-21T10:32:00.000-05:00

As posted by the Patriot Guard Riders website - these are the following missions in Missouri for today and tomorrow.

Friday, April 21 - Sgt. 1st Class Randall L. Lamberson, Springfield, MO

Friday, April 21 (Tentative) - Pfc. James F. Costello III, St. Louis, MO

Saturday, April 22 - Lance Cpl. Darin T. Settle, Henley, MO

Redbulls Update

2006-04-21T01:48:00.000-05:00

I felt another Redbulls update was due -- it seems that so far everyone seems to be doing well throughout this time of transition. Everyone is adjusting to new surroundings at their new posts. I have received word from Fink and Croson that they are both fine, and so are the rest of their group. I have also received news on Bari, Fields, and Bope, who also appear to be acclimating well to their surroundings. All of them have commented that they are eating well and trying to get used to having sand "everywhere". Here's to you guys -- hope that today finds you all safe and well.

You can learn more about the Redbulls at GX online. Chris West, a reporter with GX, has been embedded with the Redbulls and is keeping an online journal of his experiences. You can read his journal and check out the photos at: http://www.gxonline.com/features/redbulls/index.html

Recruiter Humor

2006-04-20T19:34:00.000-05:00

"Insurance"

Airman Jones was assigned to the induction center, where he advised new recruits about their government benefits, especially their GI insurance. It wasn't long before Captain Smith noticed that Airman Jones was having a staggeringly high success-rate, selling insurance to nearly 100% of the recruits he advised. Rather than ask about this, the Captain stood in the back of the room and listened to Jones' sales pitch. Jones explained the basics of GI Insurance to the new recruits, and then said, "If you have GI Insurance and go into battle and are killed, the government has to pay $200,000 to your beneficiaries. If you don't have GI insurance, and you go into battle and get killed, the government only has to pay a maximum of $10,000." "Now," he concluded, "which group do you think they are going to send into battle first?"

Hardy Har

2006-04-19T15:45:00.000-05:00

"Keeping The Log"

The first mate on a ship decided to celebrate an occasion with a "little" stowed away rum. Unfortunately he got drunk and was still drunk the next morning. The captain saw him drunk and when the first mate was sober, showed him the following entry in the ship's log:
"The first mate was drunk today."
"Captain please don't let that stay in the log", the mate said. "This could add months or years to my becoming a captain myself."
"Is it true?" asked the captain, already knowing the answer.
"Yes, its true" the mate said. "
"Then if it is true it has to go in the log. That's the rule. If its true it goes into the log, end of discussion" said the Captain sternly.
Weeks later, it was the first mate's turn to make the log entries.
The first mate wrote:
"The ship seems in good shape. The captain was sober today."

In Remembrance

2006-04-18T01:36:00.000-05:00

I wanted to take this opportunity to share the following sad news with my fellow PGR members. The following info was posted as is on the PGR (Patriot Guard Riders) website:

Robert Lee Clark, Age 32
Died April 8th, 2006

"We lost Bobby at 10:55pm on Saturday, April 8th, 2006.
Bobby was killed when he struck a truck that failed to yield at a stop sign.
The driver was legally intoxicated. Bobby was on the way back from Canon City to Colorado Springs so he could meet up with his VFW Warriors brothers and ride up to the vigil for Sgt Matt Maupin in Morrision, CO. "
Rest In Peace Bobby...

Not a "Sea Story"

2006-04-17T14:00:00.000-05:00

I recently received the following in an email from my uncle who is retired Navy. I found the article to be interesting, as I am sure he knew that I would, so I thought I would share it.

From Navy Times (1995)
Amusing Naval History, the USS Willie D, 1993, by Kit Bonner, NavalHistorian and published with his consent.

"Can you imagine what kind of "Field Day" today's press would have with these kinds of events? From November 1943, until her demise in June 1945, the American destroyer 'William Porter' was often hailed - whenever she entered port or joined other Naval ships - with the greetings: 'Don't shoot, we're Republicans!'
For a half a century, the US Navy kept a lid on the details of the incident that prompted this salutation. A Miami news reporter made the first public disclosure in 1958 after he stumbled upon the truth while covering a reunion of the destroyer's crew. The Pentagon reluctantly and tersely confirmed his story, but only a smattering of newspapers took notice. Fifty years ago, the 'Willie D' as the Porter was nicknamed, accidentally fired a live torpedo at the battleship Iowa during a practice exercise. As if this weren't bad enough, the Iowa was carrying President Franklin D.Roosevelt at the time, along with Secretary of State, Cordell Hull, and all of the country's W.W.II military brass. They were headed for the Big Three Conference in Tehran, where Roosevelt was to meet Stalin and Churchill. Had the Porter's torpedo struck the Iowa at the aiming point, the last 50 years of world history might have been quite different.
The USS William D Porter (DD-579) was one of hundreds of assembly line destroyers built during the war. They mounted several heavy and light guns, but their main armament consisted of 10 fast-running and accurate torpedoes that carried 500-pound warheads. This destroyer was placed in commission on July 1943 under the command of Wilfred Walker, a man on the Navy's fast career track. In the months before she was detailed to accompany the Iowa across the Atlantic in November 1943, the Porter and her crew learned their trade, experiencing the normal problems that always beset a new ship and a novice crew. The mishaps grew more serious when she became an escort for the pride of the fleet, the big new battleship Iowa. The night before they left Norfolk, bound for North Africa, the Porter accidentally damaged a nearby sister ship when she backed down along the other ship's side and her anchor tore down her railings, life rafts, ship's boat and various other formerly valuable pieces of equipment. The Willie D merely had a scraped anchor, but her career of mayhem and mishaps had begun.
Just twenty four hours later, the four-ship convoy consisting of Iowa and her secret passengers and two other destroyers was under strict instructions to maintain complete radio silence. As they were going through a known U-boat feeding ground, speed and silence were the best defense. Suddenly, a tremendous explosion rocked the convoy. All of the ships commenced anti-submarine maneuvers. This continued until the Porter sheepishly admitted that one of her depth charges had fallen off her stern and exploded. The 'safety' had not been set as instructed. Captain Walker was watching his fast track career become side-tracked.
Shortly thereafter, a freak wave inundated the ship, stripping away everything that wasn't lashed down.
A man was washed overboard and never found.
Next, the fire room lost power in one of its boilers. The Captain, by this point, was making reportsalmost hourly to the Iowa on the Willie D's difficulties. It would have been merciful if the force commander had detached the hard luck ship and sent her back to Norfolk. But, no, she sailed on. The morning of 14 November 1943 dawned with a moderate sea and pleasant weather. The Iowa and her escorts were just east of Bermuda, and the president and his guests wanted to see how the big ship could defend herself against an air attack.
So, Iowa launched a number of weather balloons to useas anti-aircraft targets. It was exciting to see more than 100 guns shooting at the balloons, and the President was proud of his Navy. Just as proud was Admiral Ernest J King, the Chief of Naval Operations; large in size and by demeanor, a true monarch of the sea. Disagreeing with him meant the end of a naval career. Up to this time, no one knew what firing a torpedo at him would mean. Over on the Willie D, Captain Walker watched the fireworks display with admiration and envy. Thinking about career redemption and breaking the hard luck spell, the Captain sent his impatient crew to battlestations. They began to shoot down the balloons the Iowa had missed as they drifted into the Porter's vicinity. Down on the torpedo mounts, the crew watched, waiting to take some practice shots of their own on the big battleship, which, even though 6,000 yards away, seemed to blot out the horizon. Lawton Dawson and Tony Fazio were among those responsible for the torpedoes. Part of their job involved ensuring that the primers were installed during actual combat and removed during practice. Once a primer was installed, on a command to fire, it would explode, shooting the torpedo out of its tube. Dawson, on this particular morning, unfortunately had forgotten to remove the primer from torpedo tube #3. Up on the bridge, a new torpedo officer, unaware of the danger, ordered a simulated firing. "Fire 1, Fire 2," and finally, "Fire 3." There was no fire 4 as the sequence was interrupted by an unmistakable whooooooshhhhing sound made by a successfully launched and armed torpedo. Lt H. Steward Lewis, who witnessed the entire event, later described the next few minutes as what hell would look like if it ever broke loose.
Just after he saw the torpedo hit water on its way to the Iowa and some of the most prominent figures in world history, Lewis innocently asked the Captain, 'Did you give permission to fire a torpedo?' Captain Walker's reply will not ring down through naval history... although words to the effect of Farragut's immortal 'Damn the torpedoes' figured centrally within. Initially there was some reluctance to admit what had happened, or even to warn the Iowa. As the awful reality sunk in, people began racing around, shouting conflicting instructions and attempting to warn the flagship of imminent danger. First, there was a flashing light warning about the torpedo which unfortunately indicated it was headed in another direction. Next, the Porter signaled that it was going reverse at full speed! Finally, they decided to break the strictly enforced radio silence. The radio operator on the destroyer transmitted "'Lion (code for the Iowa), Lion, come right." The Iowa operator, more concerned about radio procedure, requested that the offending station identify itself first. Finally, the message was received and the Iowa began turning to avoid the speeding torpedo.
Meanwhile, on the Iowa's bridge, word of the torpedo firing had reached FDR, who asked that his wheelchair be moved to the railing so he could see better what was coming his way. His loyal Secret Service guard immediately drew his pistol as if he was going to shoot the torpedo. As the Iowa began evasive maneuvers, all of her guns were trained on the William D Porter. There was now some thought that the Porter was part of an assassination plot. Within moments of the warning, there was a tremendous explosion just behind the battleship. The torpedo had been detonated by the wash kicked up by the battleship's increased speed. The crisis was over and so was Captain Walker's career. His final utterance to the Iowa, in response to a question about the origin of the torpedo, was a weak, "We did it."
Shortly thereafter, the brand new destroyer, her Captain and the entire crew were placed under arrest and sent to Bermuda for trial. It was the first time that a complete ship's company had been arrested in the history of the US Navy. The ship was surrounded by Marines when it docked in Bermuda, and held there several days as the closed session inquiry attempted to determine what had happened. Torpedoman Dawson eventually confessed to having inadvertently left the primer in the torpedo tube, which caused the launching. Dawson had thrown the used primer over the side to conceal his mistake. The whole incident was chalked up to an unfortunate set of circumstances and placed under a cloak of secrecy. Someone had to be punished. Captain Walker and several other Porter officers and sailors eventually found themselves in obscure shore assignments. Dawson was sentenced to 14 years hard labor. President Roosevelt intervened; however, asking that no punishment be meted out for what was clearly an accident. The destroyer was banished to the upper Aleutians. It was probably thought this was as safe a place as any for the ship and anyone who came near her. She remained in the frozen north for almost a year, until late 1944, when she was re-assigned to the Western Pacific. Before leaving the Aleutians, she accidentally left her calling card in the form of a five-inch shell fired into the front yard of the American base commandant, thus rearranging his flower garden. In December, 1944, shejoined the Philippine invasion forces and acquitted herself quite well. She distinguished herself by shooting down a number of attacking Japanese aircraft. Regrettably, after the war, it was reported that she also shot down three American planes. This was a common event on ships, as many gunners, fearful of kamikazes, had nervous trigger fingers.In April, 1945, the destroyer was assigned to support the invasion of Okinawa. By this time, the greeting "Don't Shoot, We're Republicans" was common place and the crew of the Willie D had become used to the ribbing. But the crew of her sister ship, the USS Luce, was not so polite in its salutations after the Porter accidentally riddled her side and superstructure with gunfire.
On 10 June, 1945, the Porter's hard luck finally ran out. She was sunk by a plane which had (unintentionally) attacked underwater. A Japanese bomber made almost entirely of wood and canvas slipped through the Navy's defense. Having little in the way of metal surfaces, the plane didn't register on radar. A fully loaded kamikaze, it was headed for a ship near the Porter, but just at the last moment veered away and crashed along side the unlucky destroyer. There was a sigh of relief as the plane sunk out of sight, but then it blew up underneath the Porter, opening her hull in the worst possible location.Three hours later, after the last man was off board, the Captain jumped to the safety of a rescue vessel and the ship that almost changed world history slipped astern into 2,400 feet of water. Not a single soul was lost in the sinking. After everything else that happened, it was almost as if the ship decided to let her crew off at the end."
Submitted by: Major John H. Pierson, Jr., USMC (Ret)

Happy Easter!

2006-04-16T00:29:00.000-05:00

(Art used with permission from Inspire21.com)

Why we are at war...

2006-04-14T02:39:00.000-05:00

I received this in an email forward from a friend. I'm not sure who wrote it, but I thought it was worth sharing... It brought tears to my eyes...

Explaining to a child, why we are at War

The other day, my nine-year-old son wanted to know why we were at war...
My husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and I were in theArmy during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend our Country again today.
I knew that my husband would give him a good explanation.

My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in our front living room window. He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you see?"
"I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied.
"OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush."
Our son giggled and said "OK."
"Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country" my husband said.
"OK Dad, I'm pretending."
"Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and they are afraid of their father. You see all of this, son....what do you do?"
"Dad?"
"What do you do son?"
"I'd call the police, Dad."
"OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations. They take your call. They listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?"
"Dad.......... but the police are supposed to help", my son starts to whine.
"They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband says.
"But Dad...he killed her!" my son exclaims.
"I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children."
"Daddy...he kills them?"
"Yes son, he does. What do you do?"
"Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him," our son says.
"Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him," my husband says.
"But Dad, I NEED help! I can't stop him by myself!"
"WHAT DO YOU DO SON?"
Our son starts to cry...
"OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?"
"What Daddy?"
"He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?"
"Daddy..."
"WHAT DO YOU DO?"
Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I'd close the blinds, Daddy."
My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him, "Why?"
"Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who needs them...and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed to HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy.....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...
and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds....
so I can't see what he's doing........
and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening."
I start to cry.
My husband looks at our nine-year-old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husband's questions and he says... "Son"
"Yes, Daddy."
"Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door...
"WHAT DO YOU DO?"
My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes.
He balls up his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says:"I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!"

I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his chest and hugs him tight, and says... "It's too late to fight him, he's too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before its too late," my husband whispers...

"That scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq . When good men stand by and let evil happen son, THAT is the greatest atrocity in the world. You must never be afraid to do what is right, even if you have to do it alone."

BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!
BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS! SUPPORT THEM!
SUPPORT AMERICA SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS...

(Art used with permission from Inspire21.com)

Way to go Bubba!

2006-04-12T14:06:00.000-05:00

Remember our friend Bubba Sorensen at Bubbazartwork? Bubba is the guy up in Greenfield, Iowa who paints the tribute murals on the Patriot Freedom Rock. Bubba is in one of the articles in the May 2006 issue of Guideposts magazine, thanks to a story by a veteran, whose life was touched by Bubba's work. It is a nice write-up and brought tears to my eyes. Read it if you have time, it is wonderful!
http://www.bubbazartwork.com/bubbas_web_images/guideposts.jpg
Bubba is also featured in the "Family Room section of the May 2006 issue of Guideposts, which can be viewed here:

http://www.bubbazartwork.com/bubbas_web_images/guideposts2.jpg

Thanks again Bubba! YOU ROCK!

Site of the Week

2006-04-11T10:34:00.000-05:00

http://sgthook.com/2006/04/10/no-tears-in-heaven/

Click on over to Sgt Hook's blogsite "This We'll Defend" and check out the must-read, "No Tears in Heaven". It is well worth your time and then come on back by and let me know what you thought.

*Art used with permission from Inspire21.com

Word Received

2006-04-10T11:25:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post for the moment to let everyone know I have received word from my Redbull friends that they are all doing okay right now where they are overseas and that they appreciate all of the support they have been given throughout the beginning of their deployment. I was much relieved to get word from them and couldn't be happier that they are doing well. If any of you also have Redbull friends/family you'd like to give a shoutout to, please feel more than free to leave them a hello in my comments/soundoffs section as they do check my blog.

Patriot Guard Riders

2006-04-07T02:32:00.000-05:00

Do you care about what happens to our fallen military persons' families?

Do you ever wish there was something you could do for these families to show your support and respect?

If you answered "Yes" to these questions, read on. If you answered "No", you probably need to pick another site to read!

Have you heard about the Patriot Guard Riders? If not, you may be missing out on something absolutely incredible. A lot of people have heard on the news about the groups of protestors that have shown up at fallen soldiers' funerals, especially Fred Phelps and his "church" holding up hate signs and anti-war signs and chanting such hideous statements as "Soldiers are Fags/God hates fags" and disgracing the American flag, etc. Now I am not going to get into the political run-around of arguing against their right to protest, but I am one of many people who are appalled at their behavior, and who feels deeply empathetic for the families and loved ones of soldiers who are trying to get through a very difficult time. In my opinion, the last thing on Earth that they need is for a bunch of protestors showing up and upsetting them and causing interruptions at funerals and harrassing the surviving loved ones of our nation's heroes.

The Patriot Guard Riders are not a protest or counter-protest group. They are a diverse group of people whose mission statement is this:

"The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for America’s freedom and security. If you share this respect, please join us.

We don’t care what you ride, what your political views are, or whether you’re a "hawk" or a "dove". It is not a requirement that you be a veteran. It doesn't matter where you’re from or what your income is. You don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.

Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives.

1. Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.

2. Shield the mourning family and friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means."

(Taken from their website at http://www.patriotguard.org/)

Take a moment and check out their website!

Everyday Hometown Heroes

2006-04-04T09:34:00.000-05:00

An example of how our men and women of the National Guard help out communities everyday, whether at home or abroad...

By MAJ David S. Kolarik
Courtesy of Missouri National Guard

4/3/06, Springfield, MO —The Missouri National Guard recently responded in the effort to aid tornado and severe weather victims after deadly weather canvassed a significant area of the Show-Me state. March proved to be a deadly month for many Missourians as tornado’s and severe thunderstorms plagued much of the state claiming 11 lives while destroying or damaging approximately 3200 homes. These storms proved to be some of the most devastating we’ve seen in Missouri in recent history,” said John Campbell, an Emergency Management Officer with Missouri’s State Emergency Management Agency. Missouri Governor Matt Blunt ordered the Missouri National Guard to activate in the event that they were needed to assist with storm recovery operations.
SFC Les Clancy, a recruiter with the Missouri National Guard and resident of one of the severely effected areas had a five-ton Army National Guard truck placed at his Recruiting storefront in Ozark with a sign that said “Neighbors helping Neighbors, Please help fill my truck for tornado relief.” “I’m not only a member of the Missouri National Guard, I’m also a resident of this community,” said SFC Clancy. Throughout the day local citizens stopped by the storefront and dropped off their donations. Later that afternoon Jim and Trish Schmig of Ozark stopped in and asked SFC Clancy to drive the truck to the adjacent Wal-Mart Super Center where he offered to purchase enough non-perishable items to finish filling the five-ton truck. The Schmig’s and SFC Clancy began shopping and filled approximately 15 shopping carts full with gloves, detergent, bleach, water, coolers, aspirin, lights, and other goods for distribution at approved drop off sites. “You guy’s are doing a great thing, my wife and I truly felt the need to give back to this community and your providing a perfect means to do so,” Schmig said. Several other donations were dropped off prior to SFC Clancy driving the truck to an approved collection site for distribution to the storm victims. “We may not have been activated, yet you can bet as Citizen-Soldiers, we’re always going to be there in support of our communities in a time of crisis,” SFC Clancy said."

Top to bottom:

SFC Les Clancy presents a citizen donating water a National Guard t-shirt for his contribution to the tornado relief effort.

SGT Snuffy Smith posts himself outside the relief drop-off point welcoming donations at the new Ozark, MO recruiting storefront.

Photos by MAJ David S. Kolarik

This article and many others, including news about the 1/34th Redbulls, can be found at:
http://www.gxonline.com/gxintelnews

Poignant post by a U.S. Marine

2006-04-03T04:05:00.000-05:00

I read an incredible post at another milblog this morning. For anyone with any interest in what it might be like for some of the young men and women being deployed these days, it is worth the read.

The Boy Grunt
"I see him, or one like him, almost daily, standing in line at the mess hall, waiting his turn at the phone center, or sometimes even at the base chapel on Sunday. He lives out in the city, sleeping on floors, on rooftops, or in the walled courtyards of Fallujah with his buddies, surviving on adrenaline and MRE’s. He comes back to the camp periodically to get a shower, a hot meal, a haircut, and some clean cammies. Maybe even a day off to send home an e-mail or make a telephone call. But it never lasts. Soon enough, he’s back outside the wire, doing what grunts do. "
TO READ THE REST OF THIS POST CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK:
http://greenagain.typepad.com/green_again/2006/03/the_boy_grunt.html

Tribute

2006-04-01T23:03:00.000-06:00

Here's a musical tribute to the courageous men and women of the American Military: http://www.allrightrecords.com/id88.html

This link was sent to me by Dick Eastman. Thank you Dick for letting me know about this song,
and for sharing this link with me and making it available to be shared with everyone!

(Art used with permission by Inspire21.com) http://www.inspire21.com/

Jill Carroll Freed

2006-03-30T13:27:00.000-06:00

It's all over the news now, American reporter, Jill Carroll, has been freed after 3 months of being kidnapped on January 7th in Baghdad. Jill's translator was killed in the ambush. Jill is a freelance reporter for the Christian Science Monitor. A group referred to as the "Revenge Brigades" took responsibility for the kidnapping. Jill, who reports now that she was not harmed throughout the ordeal, was released near an office of the Iraqi Islamic Party, the main Sunni political organization, in western Baghdad. She reportedly came into the office carrying a letter written in Arabic asking for help. Carroll has stated that she is unsure what changed or why they decided to let her go. She said that they came into her early in the morning and told her, "Ok, we are letting you go now." She also has made it clear that she was treated well by her captors.
This does seem somewhat strange, for those of us that remember that her captors had demanded the release of all women detainees in Iraq by Feb. 26, and said Carroll would be killed if that did not happen. The Feb. 26th date came and went with no word about Jill or if they had killed her or what had happened to her. On Februsry 28th, Iraq’s Interior Minister Bayan Jabr had said that Carroll was being held by the Islamic Army in Iraq. Also, in the past three months, she had appeared in three different video broadcasts on Arab television, pleading for her life.
It had been reported that a large ransom had been demanded in exchange for Jill's release, yet U.S. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad has made it known that no one in the U.S. mission was involved in paying a ransom, and that no kidnappers had been taken into custody.
Jill Carroll is the fourth Western hostage to be freed in eight days. On March 23, U.S. and British soldiers, acting on intelligence gained from a detainee, freed Briton Norman Kember, 74, and Canadians James Loney, 41, and Harmeet Singh Sooden, 32, from a house west of Baghdad. The three had been kidnapped with an American colleague, Tom Fox, 54, on Nov. 26. Fox was killed and his body was dumped in western Baghdad on March 9. They belonged to the Christian Peacemakers Teams group.

You can read more about Jill Carroll, her work, her kidnapping and release, at http://www.csmonitor.com/2006/0113/carroll_update.html

Courtesy of Rick Bias

2006-03-29T16:15:00.000-06:00

Rick Bias was a reader kind enough to share this incredible poem called "Freedom is Never Free" by posting it in the comments section of my last post. I know that not everyone takes the time to read the comments section. Many only glance through the posts, especially if it is their first visit. So I've decided to share this with all of you, courtesy of Rick.
Rick is a veteran of the U.S. Army. (1975-1986)
Thank you Rick.

FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE

I watched the flag pass by one day, it fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it, and then he stood "At ease."
I looked at him in uniform, so young, so tall, so proud;
With hair cut square, and eyes alert, he'd stand out in any crowd.
I thought, "How many men like him have fallen through the years?
How many died on foreign soil; how many mothers' tears?"
"How many pilots shot down, how many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?"No, Freedom isn't free!
I heard the sound of "Taps" one night, when everything was still;
I listened to the bugler play, and felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times that "Taps" had meant "Amen",
When a flag had draped a coffin of a Brother or a Friend.
I thought of all the children, of the mothers and the wives,
Of, Fathers, Sons and Husbands, with interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard, at the bottom of the sea,
Of unmarked graves in Arlington,No, Freedom isn't free!

Anonymous

"Patriotic Freedom Rock"

2006-03-29T01:07:00.000-06:00

Check out the "Patriotic Freedom Rock", located alongside Highway 25 near Greenfield, Iowa. Each year a local artist there, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, (pictured above in photo next to his work), paints murals on the rock for Memorial Day, honoring our Veterans. I've seen this rock in person and it is incredible. People come from all around to see it and take photos and I am looking forward to seeing what Bubba will come up with for this year. Thank you Bubba for sharing your talents!

If you enjoyed these photos of the Patriotic Freedom Rock, you should go by Bubba's website and check out more photos of past murals that have graced the rock, and you can even buy t-shirts and other merchandise sporting the Patriotic Freedom Rock. Proceeds from the purchases go to Bubba's paint and supply costs.
http://www.bubbazartwork.com/

Local Support

2006-03-24T11:38:00.000-06:00

Check out the article in today's Kansas City Star newspaper,
called "Weston Walks to Remember Vets"...

This article features a story about "A Walk to Remember" that will be held in Weston, Missouri. The walk will honor military personnel from Missouri & Kansas who have been killed in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/local/14172782.htm

Army Roll Call

2006-03-24T08:55:00.000-06:00

It was early morning at an Army camp and the first sergeant was calling out names for the daily work parties listed on a piece of paper:
"Ames""Here!"
"Jenson""Here!"
"Jones""Here!"
"Magersky""Here!"
"Seeback"" -- "
"Seeback!"" -- "
"SEEBACK!!!"" -- "
At that point, someone whispered into the first sergeant's ear. He looked again at what the last name really said, quickly turned over the list and continued calling the names printed on the other side.

Hope you smiled...

As You Serve...

2006-03-22T16:18:00.000-06:00

To those who wear the uniform -

As you serve, remember...

(Art used with permission by Inspire21.com) http://www.inspire21.com/

Reminder...

2006-03-22T02:35:00.000-06:00

As most people know, I am not in the military myself. I have several family members and friends who are either active now or who have been active and are proud veterans of our U.S. military service. I don't put up this blog as a political voice for any party, I don't represent any branch of service or government, and I don't receive any profit from this blog other than the satisfaction I get from knowing that it is viewed by those who serve and have served my country, and that I might get to thank them for their sacrifices and dedication. I refuse to divide people by posting offensive and biased opinions, and I refuse to get into arguments with people who feel they need to challenge my support for our troops. The only bias you may find here is that I am a strong supporter of our active military, our veterans, the POW/MIA effort, and other military families and friends.

If you can handle that, come on in and sit down for a minute.
If you can't, please leave.

Tab's thoughts for today:

2006-03-21T11:38:00.000-06:00

"America will never be destroyed from the outside.
If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
~Abraham Lincoln

"There are those who will say that the liberation of humanity, the freedom of man and mind is nothing but a dream. They are right. It is the American Dream."
~Archibald MacLeish

"The cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. And one path we shall never choose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission."
~John F. Kennedy

It's Been Said:

2006-03-20T20:39:00.000-06:00

"The soldier, above all other people, prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war."
- Douglas MacArthur

"We must be the change we wish to see."
- Mahatma Gandhi

And just for a laugh:

“If women ran the world we wouldn't have wars, just intense negotiations every 28 days.”
- Robin Williams

My Soldier, My Friend

2006-03-20T02:12:00.000-06:00

For Jason:

For 15 years we have been friends...
We have walked, and ran,
in sunshine and in rain...
We have splashed in mud puddles,
sung with the radio, played in the snow,
made wishes on stars,
and danced as only we dance...
We have laughed, and we have cried...
We have talked about the past,
enjoyed the here and now,
and shared dreams of the future...
We've discussed politics, religion, philosophy...
We have challenged one another to grow...
You taught me how to drive a manual transmission,
I got the car stuck... and we had to get it out in the dark...
You taught me how to stand up for myself and think on my feet...
I started to win more arguments, with you, a feat entirely worthy of a medal...
I taught you that it's okay to be human -
and you began to acknowledge that you were... sometimes...
admitting that even a soldier has to have feelings once in awhile...
We've argued, wrestled, and made up...
We both agree that the other is the most stubborn person we've ever met,
yet we choose the company of each other-
over those who cannot make up their minds on their own.
We've rebelled together, challenged authority together,
gotten into trouble, and out of trouble, together...
and blazed many a trail side by side...

Now, I'm here, and you are there...
I can't be with you on this journey,
and I can't walk beside you on the path you must take...
You will be accompanied by a band of brothers,
and you will affect their lives, as they will yours.
I will be here waiting...
I already miss your face - that cocky grin and mischievious smile...
And when you return, as I pray every day that you will,
we will share more of the things in this life that make fighting for freedom worthwhile...

I love you.

-Tabby

Random Quote #3

2006-03-19T09:18:00.000-06:00

"Good people sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." ~unknown

Bless America, Bless Our Troops and Vets

2006-03-18T00:42:00.000-06:00

(Art used with permission by Inspire21.com) http://www.inspire21.com/

You've Just Gotta Laugh

2006-03-17T12:15:00.000-06:00

Murphy's Laws Of Combat Operations:

Friendly fire - isn't.
Recoilless rifles - aren't.
Suppressive fires - won't.

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

Try to look unimportant; the enemy may be low on ammo and not want to waste a bullet on you.

If at first you don't succeed, call in an airstrike.

If you are forward of your position, your artillery will fall short.

Never share a foxhole with anyone braver than yourself.

Never go to bed with anyone crazier than yourself.

Never forget that your weapon was made by the lowest bidder.

If your attack is going really well, it's an ambush.

The enemy diversion you're ignoring is their main attack.

There is no such thing as a perfect plan.

Five second fuzes always burn three seconds.

There is no such thing as an atheist in a foxhole.

A retreating enemy is probably just falling back and regrouping.

The easy way is always mined.

Teamwork is essential; it gives the enemy other people to shoot at.

Don't look conspicuous; it draws fire. For this reason, it is not at all uncommon for aircraft carriers to be known as bomb magnets.

Never draw fire; it irritates everyone around you.

If you are short of everything but the enemy, you are in the combat zone.

When you have secured the area, make sure the enemy knows it too.

Incoming fire has the right of way.

If the enemy is within range, so are you.

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

Things which must be shipped together as a set, aren't.
Things that must work together,
can't be carried to the field that way.

Radios will fail as soon as you need fire support.

Radar tends to fail at night and in bad weather,
and especially during both.

Anything you do can get you killed, including nothing.

Make it too tough for the enemy to get in, and you won't be able to get out.

Tracers work both ways.

If you take more than your fair share of objectives,
you will get more than your fair share of objectives to take.

Professional soldiers are predictable; the world is full of dangerous amateurs.

Military Intelligence is a contradiction.

If you can't remember, the Claymore is pointed towards you.

Air defense motto: shoot 'em down; sort 'em out on the ground.
'Flies high, it dies; low and slow, it'll go.

The Cavalry doesn't always come to the rescue.

Napalm is an area support weapon.

Mines are equal opportunity weapons.

B-52s are the ultimate close support weapon.

The one item you need is always in short supply.

Interchangeable parts aren't.

When in doubt, empty your magazine.

Combat will occur on the ground between two adjoining maps.

If you can keep your head while those around you are losing theirs, you may have misjudged the situation.

Whenever you lose contact with the enemy, look behind you.

The most dangerous thing in the combat zone is an officer with a map.

If you really need an officer in a hurry, take a nap.

There is nothing more satisfying than having someone take a shot at you, and miss.

If your sergeant can see you, so can the enemy.

You'll only remember your hand grenades when the sound is too close to use them.

The ping you heard was the antenna snapping off at 6 inches above the flexmount, while a fire mission was being called in on a battalion of hostiles who know your position.

Why is it the CO sticks his head in your radio hooch to see if anything has come down from DIV when you are listening to the VOA broadcasting the baseball games?

How come you are on one frequency when everyone else is on another?

The enemy "Always" times his attack,
to the second you drop your pants in the Latrine!!

The ammo you need "NOW" is on the "Next" airdrop!!

(This was emailed to me sometime back, not sure who the author is, but thought the piece was rather sarcastic and funny!)

Food For Thought:

2006-03-17T03:12:00.000-06:00

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free."
- Ronald Wilson Reagan (1911-2004)

It's Been Said...

2006-03-17T01:08:00.000-06:00

"War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things...
The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature, and has no chance of being free unless made or kept so by the exertions of better men than himself."

~John Stuart Mill~

The 1/34th

2006-03-16T13:09:00.000-06:00

Today was the deployment ceremony for the 1/34th, and these, my beloved Redbulls, are on my mind today. I wasn't able to get down to Mississippi for the ceremony, but have been in close contact with my best friend, Jason, who is in the 1/133rd Infantry and is a part of this group. I wanted to share with you a couple of photos taken of the "Redbulls". These photos were taken from the Redbulls' website at http://www.redbullweb.com/

The first of the "animated crest" photos was taken Aug. 18, 1918 at Camp Cody, New Mexico.

The "new" animated crest photo was taken March 14, 2006 by Sgt. 1st Class Clinton Wood at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. A special thanks to http://www.redbullweb.com/ for these photos.

Rock on Redbulls!!! Yeah IRONMAN Battalion!!!

Hello Hello Hello

2006-03-13T17:16:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to give a big hello to our troops at FOB Echo -- Keep up the good work! Each of you is appreciated and I thank you all for all the hard work you are doing on your deployment! A special "wassup" to SPC Borchers, who I grew up with! You all are remembered daily in my prayers!

Shout out to the Redbulls!

2006-03-10T15:33:00.000-06:00

I wouldn't feel right if I didn't start this off with a shoutout to my friends of the 133rd and the rest of the Redbulls!

To all my buddies, you know who you are, I am so proud of you and I am supporting you all 110% throughout this deployment! Keep your heads on straight and your butts low!

Fink, Croson, Mailman, Rich,Woo-tang, Fletch, Smith, Artie, Blue, ALL OF YOU, you guys rock!

BLOG OPS

2006-03-10T15:14:00.000-06:00

I'm starting this blog to show my support for our troops. I'm not a member of the military, but I am a proud supporter and I am so grateful to all of our men and women in the military who get up and do their jobs every day so that we can continue to live in a free society.
I won't say that I agree with all of the politics, and I won't get into political debates. I am simply here to express my gratitude toward our military and to show my support for each soldier and military person who protect my rights as a U.S. citizen.
Freedom isn't free.