An Iraq Tale Vol. 11: ( Five Years Ago)

News Type: Opinion — Thu Mar 20, 2008 7:40 PM EDT

world-news, us, iraq, war, middle-east, good, bad, invasion, iraqdiary, 5-years-ago

Five years ago I was sitting in a tower at the ECP in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Behind an M249 Machine gun watching the vehicles enter and exit the ECP. Listening to the short wave radio, I bought from the Bazaar, I heard the news. The war has started. A few days and a lot of scud attacks later and it was our turn to cross into war. Into a different world, a different life, a life and world I never would have imagined. Those days all seem a blur today. I remember all the good and bad times. The times where the pucker factor was high and the times where we would laugh the nights away. The nights where I would be up all night on a patrol or pulling guard on some far off OP. And the days after my tour where I would read of another attack on military or civilian and feel as if maybe I have not done enough. That maybe my sacrifice was paltry compared to others. And although I had served here once I felt compelled to serve here once

Fast forward to today. I am sitting once again in Iraq. A little older, maybe wiser, and some days wondering just what I have gotten myself into. I am not here to judge anyone. I have a job here, I do it and do it the best and most honorable way I can. I conduct myself the way I feel all American troops should, with dignity and pride in our country and mission here. Treating the Iraqis with the respect and dignity I would expect if the situation where reversed. And this is the way I feel most Americans here feel. There is a lot of positives here, I see them every day. Yes there is a lot of bad too I see that as well. I won't argue whether the war is right or wrong. Time and history will be the judge of that. I do know I am here today because I volunteered for a second tour. Not because I had to, not out of necessity. No, I did it because I believe in my friends, brothers, sisters, and the Iraqis. And what kind of person would I be not to come back when I am able.

5 years ago we liberated/invaded Iraq. Today we are still here, most doing what we believe is the right thing . I do have hope for the future of Iraq and the U.S. No matter whether you are a person at home protesting the war, or sending care packages or a quiet prayer for the troops, or are over here serving, we are all doing what we feel is the right thing. And eventually this war will end, will it end the "right" way? That is for the future to decide. Until then we will keep doing what we do. And pray for a better day for Iraq and the U.S.

97 Votes
Enjoy this article? Help vote it up the 'Vine.

Published to:

Rob Ballew's Column, All of Newsvine
Groups: Centervine, Counterterrorism, Global War on Terror, Iraq Success Stories, Military Members on NewsVine, Newsvine Community, Operation: Hearts and Minds, rightwingers, Veterans & Friends
Regions: none

What's this?

Who's leading the conversation?

This visualization below allows you to see the impact that each user has on the current conversation. The top row contains the group of users who have had the most impact, the 2nd row the group of users who have had the 2nd most impact (et cetera). Users with similar impact are grouped together, and the average score of the group is shown to the left of the group. The author of the article is also shown on the left, in their corresponding group. Each user's score is based on the number of comments the user has made plus the number of votes their comments have received. The scores are calculated relative one another, so while their absolute value is not particularly important, their relative difference does indicate a larger difference in impact on the conversation.

3.4

3.3

1.3

Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 4 ... 8

{"commentId":1610911,"authorDomain":"jnick"}

jnick

I agree with Gun 1...My family has a history of military service all volunteer with the exception of my father being drafted in WW2. Five brothers including myself and a wife volunteered from Korea to present day. Two of us gave 20 years three retired from reserves. My wife is now Active Army. The decision to serve is a personal one and spans our family's history. Not one was forced or blindly served. We all have our personal politics but one thing we all shared was our devotion to ensuring our way of life was and is preserved.

{"commentId":1610911,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"jnick"}

2 votes

#26 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 11:06 AM EDT

{"commentId":1611847,"authorDomain":"swatson21"}

Sharon Watson

God bless you soldier! When the war started and I was afraid for my son to go he said, "Mom, someone's son has to go." I was never prouder of him, than at that moment. He is back now, and I hope you will be back with your family soon also. God be with you, and keep you!

{"commentId":1611847,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"swatson21"}

3 votes

#27 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 5:57 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612071,"authorDomain":"prentiss213"}

paulywood

Just got back from Iraq two days ago and saw my seven month year old son for the first time. While i was in Iraq I got a chance to see quite a bit and learn even more. Conducting convoy operations as a convoy commander I am ever thankful for returning to the states with all my men. I am proud of what they accomplished and working together we kept each other safe. This was my second deployment and I am not ashamed to say that I do not have the heart for another. The constant stress takes a large toll on even the strongest of us.

The press does not do a very good job of accurately reporting the situation in Iraq. I'm not sure why this is. They center their reports on Al Quaeda like they are the only enemy in Iraq. The President likes to state that we have Al Quaeda on the run. To the veterans who have just returned, you know neither of these is true. What is worse is that we are going into an election year with the voters not being informed of the true situation on the ground.

I'm not a war strategist, planner or high ranking officer, but I had a chance to see for myself what the situation is. Iraq is experiencing what I like to term "The New Gold Rush". Enemies, Shia, Sunni, Kurdish and foreign fighters are not defeated or "on the run". They are hiding, joining, infiltrating and positioning themselves for the future. They have not embraced the future of a nation as a combined effort but as individuals who will stop at nothing to have their piece of the gold mine.

Are soldiers doing great things, of course they are. That is what the American soldier does. If you parachuted a brigade into Africa tomorrow they would be serving food and fresh drinking water by noon. Don't confuse the heart of the American soldier with a poorly planned and grossly dangerous mission. We will keep losing men in Iraq and I'm not ready to give one more. My brother is getting close to his second Iraq deployment and I say not one more.

{"commentId":1612071,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"prentiss213"}

3 votes

#28 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 7:17 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612289,"authorDomain":"mmc0713"}

Michelle Connolly

Congratulations on your safe homecoming and for seeing your son. I don't blame you for not wanting to go back again. You did what you had to do and now it is your time to be with your family. Thank you for serving our country and protecting our freedom. Enjoy your family, kids grow up way too fast :)

{"commentId":1612289,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"mmc0713"}

1 vote

#28.1 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 8:47 PM EDT

{"commentId":1613005,"authorDomain":"niteqwill"}

NiteQwill

Welcome home.

{"commentId":1613005,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"niteqwill"}

1 vote

#28.2 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 2:51 AM EDT

{"commentId":5234567,"authorDomain":"shawnferguson"}

Shawn-857835

Well the election have gone off far better than anyone expected. And when compared to the previous elections there were only 4 assasinations and 10 attacks. Total population of voters, 51%. That is on par with the US, and many more women ran for office and voted than ever before.

It was interesting watching and working with the Iraqi Army as they planned the security for this event. Sure we were in overwatch, but they plannned and executed the security plan with exellent results.

{"commentId":5234567,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"shawnferguson"}

#28.3 - Sat Feb 7, 2009 10:39 AM EST

{"commentId":1612119,"authorDomain":"oldhermitdave"}

old hermit Dave

Well Bob I know you are just a soldier doing a job your were hired to do. I just wonder if you or any other soldiers serving in Iraq understand you are involved in a illegal criminal invasion of a innocent country. Your CIC and his gang of criminals lied America into this war. You are just the lowest paid group of people involved in a money making venture. I suggest you talk to someone at the Blackwater office and increase your pay ten fold. Or try Kellogg Brown and Root, their janitor over there makes more money than any soldier. Good luck stay safe.

{"commentId":1612119,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"oldhermitdave"}

1 vote

#29 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 7:36 PM EDT

{"commentId":1613002,"authorDomain":"niteqwill"}

NiteQwill

Is the need for rotten apples necessary?

The point is that we are over there... there's someone's brother, sister, husband, or wife enduring the crap of life.

I just believe the sarcasm could be put to better use in a different seed.

{"commentId":1613002,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"niteqwill"}

3 votes

#29.1 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 2:50 AM EDT

{"commentId":1638712,"authorDomain":"WarPig"}

WarPig1

Throughout history the average man has stepped up to become a protector of those less fortunate and suffering unjustness. These men have put forth their beliefs,courage and valor in the name of what they hold dear. Be it Family,friends,spiritual beliefs,Honor or the duty to protect their fellow Soldier.
The reason has nothing to do with the policies set forth by the leaders of Country's and corporations!Rich and powerful men are always at the center of conflict but the Mothers son,the Sisters Brother the Fathers Son is the one to answer the call to give the ultimate sacrifice if called upon. To uphold the honor of their Country Right or Wrong!
These Men and yes Women we call Soldiers,these we also call Heroes !Our thoughts and Prayers will continue to be with you throughout your moments of doubt and during the relief and elation a new day can bring. I am Honored to have you in the service of our Country right or wrong! Godspeed

{"commentId":1638712,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"WarPig"}

2 votes

#29.2 - Mon Mar 31, 2008 12:34 AM EDT

{"commentId":1987217,"authorDomain":"BillR"}

Bill R.

I'm tired of you idiots calling this an illegal war. On what exactly do you base this? Congress? They voted for and authorized it. The UN? They are useless for anything except being a moneypit. And we don't have to ask permission anyway. It may have been an ill advised war, but certainly not illegal. The fact of the matter is that we ARE there whether you or anyone else likes it or not. We have made mistakes but have finally got the strategy right now. All your talk about legalities only serve to embolden our enemies. We need to finish this war with an American victory and then you can talk all the trash you want. To do any less would dishonor those who died for this cause. The only things these people understand is firepower and if we keep talking about leaving before it's done, they will just bide their time until we do. And in the meantime, they will keep chipping away at us. You want to give legitimate criticism, fine. But congress is ultimately responsible for Haliburton, KBR, Blackwater, and any other contractors. They are the ones who cut the military to the bone and forced them to rely on contractors. The guard and reserve? Same thing. After Vietnam they shaped the military so we couldn't go to war without them. Got more to say but have to go to work.

{"commentId":1987217,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"BillR"}

1 vote

#29.3 - Tue Jun 17, 2008 2:37 PM EDT

{"commentId":3475770,"authorDomain":"superlogi"}

superlogi

Old hermit, you sound like a guy so invested in your personal cowardice, that the idea of serving one's country is anathema. You're the same type of person if not the person who served your patriotic duty from Canada during my own military service. With regard to Blackwater and KBR, I had the opportunity to meet several Blackwater contractors, all of whom were previous special forces. Some were guarding Karzai, others doing security work for a myriad of other ministers and Afghani government facilities. One of those fellows, even saved Karzai's life in Kandahar during an assassination attempt. By the way, what do you suppose Karzai's life was worth to this government and his own? By the way, the overpaid Blackwater guy killed the assassin and, unfortunately, a young Afghani who was also trying to protect Karzai. With regard to KBR, I traveled with a VP who served in the same war I did. He was a helo pilot and flew more missions than you can count up to. You know, like me he was just another murdering child killing maniac or so you would have everyone believe. Unfortunately, while I was in Afghanistan some of these same high priced KBR contractors were killed trying to build a bridge that had been taken out during the Russian occupation not too far from Kabul. I guess its alright though since they were making a lot more money than a typical grunt. You know, dipstick, when I served in Vietnam, my monthly salary never got above $468. That included both combat and hazardous duty pay as an E-5. But I don't begrudge anyone making $150,000+ for going to either Iraq or Afghanistan, because unlike you they're putting their lives on the line and they're doing it because their country asked them to. Wouldn't it be nice if our armed service people could simply tell their commanders to piss off when they didn't like their duty assignments. In my day, several did. They were discharged less than honorably and that stain like those who evaded the draft or went AWOL will stay with them until they are dead. Now this kid didn't say anything about liking what he was doing, but he did think it had value and if you can't see that it does, not only for the people he's serving with but for people like you and those in the country he's serving in, you don't have a clue and you don't deserve to live in this country. Hopefully, he gives your post the attention it deserves.

{"commentId":3475770,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"superlogi"}

#29.4 - Tue Oct 14, 2008 11:33 AM EDT

{"commentId":1612228,"authorDomain":"rwills3gc"}

bamamom

Hi Rob,

As a mother of a US soldier, I am sending this to you and all the other military members in Iraq on the most wonderful and humbling holidays of all-Happy Easter!!! I am so very proud of you for-proudly serving your country.

I just found out last night that my son, a Captain in the Air Force, is being deployed to Iraq a second time-this time for a year. Needless to say, my night was tear filled and very emotional with very mixed feelings. I know the Lord loves us all and knows our end, I pray that each and every one of you and those of us here at home, also, pray to our Lord and Saviour for guidance, lean on him and let him wrap his arms around us when we need touch, feel his warmth and make the choice that we know is spirit led for our every move.

To think, He died for you, for me, for us all..........In lieu of this, I feel extremely selfish for being sad for my son, his family and myself.........but, I think this is normal.....human.....and God knows we're human.....not perfect......which is why he died for us.......and talks to our spirit.....gives us the choice of accepting him.....or not.....walking with him.....or not.....talking with him.....or not. Know that He is with you at all times....................God bless you, from a Mom of a US soldier, that proudly serves his country!

{"commentId":1612228,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"rwills3gc"}

2 votes

#30 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 8:24 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612242,"authorDomain":"jphnaz"}

Pat-257387

I have a grandson who leaves for his 1st tour of duty to Iraq the end of April, I am always searching for any information from someone like you who has been there and experienced the life there, I fight my fear every second and pray for all the ones fighting for our country. My heart swells with pride for all you who are fighting for freedom for a people who have never know freedom. My grandson is ready to go and do his part for our country. He just turned 21, headed for a different life than he can ever imagine or has ever known, but he has learned a lot and will return home in August of 2009. GOD BLESS YOU SOLDIER. Thanks for your report and I pray for you and all the others that are there with you everyday.

{"commentId":1612242,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"jphnaz"}

2 votes

#31 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 8:28 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612422,"authorDomain":"raffdeb"}

Raffmom

As a wife and mom to 4 veterans, I am "war weary". Our three sons were in Iraq overlapping each other for three long years. My husband was on his way over when the doctor called to tell him his test results found cancer and he had to stay behind. I'm not sure which was worse on him, dealing with (and beating) cancer, or knowing his sons were in Iraq and he couldn't be there with/for them. As a Troop Greeter at BIA, I have seen a lot of siblings come back, I met a mom and her daughter on one flight, and we just celebrated our 3000th flight coming through the airport, and the list goes on. Most of the soldiers and marines and sailors I have talked to have been over there two and three times. Our oldest son leaves Tuesday for his 5th tour. I want to make it clear that I do not like us being in our 5th year of a war, but I also want to be Crystal Clear about my support to all the military and civilian personnel who are and have served overseas. "Til they all come home" is my motto. I have become an international cook since this 'conflict' started. I have become a "mother' for a lot of soldiers to email to and chat with. I have helped fundraise for and send almost 500 shoeboxes overseas, and I have sent, personally, over 1000 bandanas with the 91st Psalm on them, to the soldiers. We ask our men and women to go fight a battle that seems to have no end and no solution, but we don't take the time to say "thank you" to them, or write to them, and when they come back after a year of seeing things no human should have to see, we expect them to be "normal" and pick right up where they left off, like nothing happened. We are going to have years and years of this war haunting us through the men and women who come back with body parts missing, or an altered mental state. These young people are and will pay the price of our nation's greed. I pray for our soldiers and their families every day. I try to get in touch with folks who have a loved one over there, and put their names on prayer lists, into the hands of organizations who have the ability to send things to them that they want or need. I feel like I sent the entire grocery store here in town to our sons when they were over there. I salute every soldier participating in this time of war, for doing what is needed to keep this country safe. May God Bless and keep you safe...."Til You All Come Home"......Hooah!!

{"commentId":1612422,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"raffdeb"}

1 vote

#32 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 9:39 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612524,"authorDomain":"thompson-22507"}

Ann Thompson

I do understand what this solider is saying. Being a solider he could not say anything any different. I truly pray for the soliders and their families. The soliders do keep our country safe, but being a civilian, I feel strongly against this war. I don't feel that this is our war, I can feel that way, because I am a civilian an I don't have to answer to the government. I will be so glad when our soldiers come home to be with their families and feel very sadden of the 4,000 lives lost since this war has started. May the Lord continue to bless our soldiers and their families.

{"commentId":1612524,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"thompson-22507"}

1 vote

#33 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 10:17 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612531,"authorDomain":"autosoft"}

Anti-Obama-108218

I too think we are there because of the oil. For the right reasons. That's why the bad guys are there. We are there to protect it for a democratic and peaceful Iraq and world. Oil in the hands of extremists will be our worst nightmare. Like Husein who woulda if he couda the extremists would use the oil wealth to empower their goals to attack, terrorise and change the world to their beliefs. You either change or you die. So pull out and we will pay the price a 1000 fold.There is no question that our brave volunteers are on the ultimate mission to preserve a safe world. God bless our military and the families of the valiant service women and men that are protecting the world as we know it. No other time in history has technology made it so easy for those with the means to develop weapons of mass destruction. We either keep it away from people of intolerance or pack your bags for the dark ages.

{"commentId":1612531,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"autosoft"}

#34 - Sun Mar 23, 2008 10:18 PM EDT

{"commentId":1612921,"authorDomain":"bsavers2"}

savvy-257457

People at the lowest levels always make the greatest sacrifices. Your patriotism is inspiring. It's just sad that it's being abused by the Illuminati.

Good luck, you make us proud.

{"commentId":1612921,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"bsavers2"}

1 vote

#35 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 1:10 AM EDT

{"commentId":1613621,"authorDomain":"sportylady-61"}

Terri-257601

I am an Army mom with 1 son there and another getting ready to go . I am very much against the war but my heroes believe in what they r doing.The son that is there now says we r going good over here you would have to be here to see what i am talking about .I do pray or all over there and there familys we worry and wonder everyday how are they doing not just mine but there buddies we have come to care about because that is there other family.I cant wait till it is over and all our troops come HOME. God Bless each and everyone over there.

{"commentId":1613621,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"sportylady-61"}

3 votes

#36 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 10:25 AM EDT

{"commentId":1613677,"authorDomain":"FatSean"}

FatSean

Thanks for your service. I am sure you believe in what you are doing, but lots of people believed in what they were doing and it turned out to be the wrong thing. How many Iraqis need to die before we've 'ended' the war the 'right' way?! You might have to grow old and die in the desert. Oh well...if that's what you want. I however dislike having my taxes and my grand-children taxes borrowed to pay for it all. This war is a big part of why our economy sucks, it must end as soon as possible.

{"commentId":1613677,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"FatSean"}

#37 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 10:43 AM EDT

{"commentId":1613725,"authorDomain":"pinelineshepherds"}

pinelineshepherds

Raffmom you need a citation for just having as much heart as you do! Kudo's to you and God Bless you and yours.
Rob, my son is with Charlie Co. 152nd cav. in Indiana I love, support and respect what he is doing. I have to say though that when he came back from Afghanistan in 2006 he was told that it was definite that they would not deploy again until 2010. We thought he could get his degree finished. Here we are in 2008 and he has been on active since late 2007. he is now stationed in Iraq. Jon is a new 22 and will come home early next year. I remember not knowing my boy when he came home from Afghanistan. He came back a impatient but very proud man, with a look that would cut straight through all the BS. It took awhile for him to be a "young" person again. He will come back with that same demeanor again I am sure. This time I have an upper hand on the situation, He has a very awesome young lady waiting to be his wife and share all the bad and good times ahead. She has prepared herself for what is ahead but was not prepared for the gut wrenching emotions of seeing him in uniform step onto a plane with no guarantees of when or where she would hold him next. God knows that every other soldier over there has had someone feel the same and that someone is holding their breath every time a news story comes on about a IED taking its toll. I can only say that I hope what sacrifice we give is appreciated by the Iraqis and I hope they can soon stand on their own so we no longer have to stand for them.

{"commentId":1613725,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"pinelineshepherds"}

#38 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 10:58 AM EDT

{"commentId":1613842,"authorDomain":"james-pitman"}

SGT Pitman

As I have returned from my 3rd tour there, and 4th in total, I have reflected upon what we are doing there, and what I try and do every trip. I feel we can and do make some great changes in Iraqi's lives. I know that almost all of us serve with honor during our tours, but it is the very few that make headlines.
I am currently trying to get somewhere that I can take a little time off from deployments, 4 in 6 years is way too many. I think that your lucky to be in a unit where you get to take a little time off on deployments, I have not been so lucky, and it has cost me one marriage so far.
Best of luck to you, keep your head low, and stay safe.
SGT P.

{"commentId":1613842,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"james-pitman"}

3 votes

#39 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 11:30 AM EDT

{"commentId":1615386,"authorDomain":"prentiss213"}

paulywood

These multiple deployments are slowly destroying us. Even when you are home you are not "home". There has to a reasonable limit to what can be expected of a man. It is sad to think if you refused to go on that 5th deployment you would go from war hero to criminal immediately. When have we served enough?

{"commentId":1615386,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"prentiss213"}

1 vote

#39.1 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 5:44 PM EDT

{"commentId":1701264,"authorDomain":"jimyranchies"}

jimy

SGT
4 deployments in 6 years. Didn't Rumsfeld said that they will be home by Christmas 2003. How many times did our present leadership lie to these troops. How many deployments will it take before they can be no longer deployed.

{"commentId":1701264,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"jimyranchies"}

#39.2 - Thu Apr 17, 2008 12:25 AM EDT

{"commentId":1614275,"authorDomain":"raquel-reich"}

Raquel-257695

Rob,
1st Thank you for your Duty.. my husband is a Soldier too who is getting ready to deploy again for the 4th time in the 6 years we've been overseas. 2 times Iraq.. getting ready for his 2nd tour to Afghanistan... It sucks bad.. especially our Battalion has lost 5 men the 1st Man we lost was from our company RIP CPL Calloway.. he was the 1st Soldier KIA since Vietnam War from here. I know and I am a firm believer that there is good and bad every where.. and I am proud of My soldier and all Soldiers out there defending our country and all of you have all of my support and prayers. And I hope the person who is going to be selected as president will NOT destroy or try to.. what you guys have worked so hard for.
God Bless

{"commentId":1614275,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"raquel-reich"}

#40 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 1:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":1614900,"authorDomain":"munibags2002"}

munibags2002

Your column always brings a smile to my face and sometimes, a tear to my eye. Your love and courage for what you do is astounding. I enjoy reading your perspective on what is actually going on. I think if more people were to read soldier's blogs, and watch less tv, they would understand the angle the media likes to portray is not the angle you brave men and women see everyday. As the proud middle sister of 2 servicemen, one Marine and one Air Force, I support you 100%. Continue to keep up the good work and be safe.

{"commentId":1614900,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"munibags2002"}

2 votes

#41 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 3:49 PM EDT

{"commentId":1616393,"authorDomain":"dmlnu01"}

CPTDAN

Good to see people with valor still left in the world. Stay safe, and many thanks to my brothers in arms.

{"commentId":1616393,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"dmlnu01"}

1 vote

#42 - Mon Mar 24, 2008 11:03 PM EDT

{"commentId":1616660,"authorDomain":"milesbradford"}

Miles Bradford

Hey - thanks man. The people world over forget we are Americans. We are the ones who forged ahead a couple hundred years ago and started this fight for freedom and freedom for every human being. The world often forget - we are the only ones who actually stand up and give our lives willingly to make sure that even our enemies are free to say what they must - even though we then have to kill them - they at least had a chance to be free in the correct way had they chosen...the American Way! If we take the lead - the rest of the world will follow. So far that has been true. Look at China now - still murdering for no good reasons. We in America make mistakes, too - but, at least someone is there to stand up for the downtrodden when we do make mistakes. We as a race - will eventually die out - I 'm wondering who will stand up then - and keep freedom a choice? Thanks again for doing a fantastic job. At the end of the day - all the bankers and all the kings horseman still look the same in the dust of the wind. You never know who you're walking on when you are at the beach....it could have been a banker or an oil geek! Nevertheless - someone laid down their lives for these people to be free to perpetrate their wills upon the earth. It certainly wasn't them in the heat of battle.

{"commentId":1616660,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"milesbradford"}

1 vote

#43 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 12:37 AM EDT

{"commentId":1616673,"authorDomain":"milesbradford"}

Miles Bradford

{"commentId":1616673,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"milesbradford"}

3 votes

#44 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 12:41 AM EDT

{"commentId":1617351,"authorDomain":"druidwolfe"}

druidwolfe

I'm glad I found this site. We hear far too little from the soldiers. Have you considered being a guest blogger on VAjoe.com? I don't trust the news where this war is concerned . I only trust our sons and daughters on the front lines. Love to all of you and prayers for each and every one. Thanks for your insight. I hope your R&R was the greatest! Love to Infinity.

{"commentId":1617351,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"druidwolfe"}

1 vote

#45 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 9:24 AM EDT

{"commentId":1618334,"authorDomain":"nanapeg416"}

Peg(Joe's mom)

Rob - First of all, THANK YOU and GOD BLESS YOU! My son has just started his first deployment in Iraq . He actually called me today to tell me he is now in Baghdad. All I can do is pray for all of you brave soldiers! Like many others, I don't support the war, but I DO support my son and all soldiers. Luckily, there is a very active FRG group in my area, so I have a great support group. Well, that's it for now. Glad I found your blog and I appreciate your insight. Keep safe and God Bless

{"commentId":1618334,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"nanapeg416"}

1 vote

#46 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 1:22 PM EDT

{"commentId":1618361,"authorDomain":"marinemom"}

1/9 Marinemom

I too appreciate what you and all the US Military has done and will continue to do. My son is there now to lend his support in this campaign. God Bless all of you and I pray daily for your safety.

Semper FI from a Mom in CA.

{"commentId":1618361,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"marinemom"}

2 votes

#47 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 1:32 PM EDT

{"commentId":1618761,"authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

Becky-258226

I don't know how to express my gratitude for your unselfish service to your country. I pray that you return safely from your mission there.

My only grandson is serving in Iraq and is a Cav Scout. He is currently home on R&R, and although I tried so hard to talk him out of joining the service, since he was only 18, and the only son and grandson, I now realize that no matter what happens, I could never be prouder of him that I am right now. I am proud of all of the soldiers and even though I was against this war in Iraq, I am totally 150% for the brave men and women who so gallantly serve there and other places, so that us here at home in America have the right to express their opinions and enjoy the freedoms we all take for granted. I was saddened to hear that only 1% of Ameriicans join the military. I am an old woman and it was automatic when I was growing up for the young men to join the military. I still believe that all young people should serve at least 2 years for their country. My granddaughter is married to a soldier who is stationed in Germany, having served in Iraq too. Both of my grandchildren are far away and I thank God that we are able to stay in touch via the Internet.

God Bless You.

Granny of Soldier

{"commentId":1618761,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

1 vote

#48 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 3:12 PM EDT

{"commentId":1618888,"authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

Becky-258226

I don't know how to express my gratitude for your unselfish service to your country. I pray that you return safely from your mission there.

My only grandson is serving his first tour in Iraq and is a Cav Scout. He is currently home on R&R, and although I tried so hard to talk him out of joining the service, since he was only 18, and the only son and grandson, I now realize that no matter what happens, I could never be prouder of him that I am right now. I am proud of all of the soldiers, and even though I was against this war in Iraq, I am totally 150% for the brave men and women who so gallantly serve there and other places, so that us here at home in America have the right to express our opinions and enjoy the freedoms we all take for granted. I was saddened to hear that only 1% of Ameriicans join the military. I am an old woman and it was automatic when I was growing up for the young men to join the military. If more people would serve, then our soldiers would not have to continue to be redeployed there. I still believe that all young people should serve at least 2 years for their country. My granddaughter is married to a soldier who is stationed in Germany, having served in Iraq too. Both of my grandchildren are far away and I thank God that we are able to stay in touch via the Internet.

I hope this war ends soon. Do not listen to all the negative comments from those who are able to sleep at night or party the night away, knowing that you are on that wall. Keep your chin up and know that win or lose, we are here for all of you. I pray that my country will not treat the soldiers like they did the Vietnam veterans and all those others who fought for the oppressed.

God Bless You.

Granny of Soldier

{"commentId":1618888,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

#49 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 3:42 PM EDT

{"commentId":1618893,"authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

Becky-258226

I don't know how to express my gratitude for your unselfish service to your country. I pray that you return safely from your mission there.

God Bless You.

Granny of Soldier

{"commentId":1618893,"threadId":"237789","contentId":"1376603","authorDomain":"beckaleck"}

#50 - Tue Mar 25, 2008 3:44 PM EDT

Jump to discussion page: 1 2 3 4 ... 8

{"canLink":false,"threadId":"237789","isPrivate":false}

ROB BALLEW

Backyard

An Iraq Tale Vol. 11: ( Five Years Ago)

Published to:

FUN STUFF:

COMPANY STUFF:

LEGAL STUFF: