Renew Your Right to Gripe!!!!

RENEW

YOUR

RIGHT

TO

GRIPE

VOTE!

My grandpa used to always begin any political discussion with, "Did you vote in the last election?" Since voter turn-out in this country is so low, more often than not, the answer would be "NO". Grandpa would smile and say, "Well, then, you forfeited your right to any opinion or criticism, didn't you." Grandpa always got his point across and eliminated a lot of silly discussions that way. But, his larger point was always the OBLIGATION OF CITIZENSHIP. He believed that since many great men had conceived, fought for and risked everything to create this country, that we had an obligation to VOTE. He also believed that if we all took that obligation seriously, politicians would get away with less dishonesty, fraud, corruption and general bad behavior. On my 21st birthday (OK, I'm old, but you used to have to be 21 to vote), he sent me a picture of Arlington Cemetery and a note that said, "If you don't vote, they gave their lives for nothing. Vote, always vote, and remember the greatness of your country when you do."

Please vote, and please ask your candidate, "Do You Want America to Win?" Vote as if your country depends upon it, because it does!

"The fact is that for some on the far left, their belief in America as a force fo evil and destruction in the world makes them believe that the American military is the agent of that evil and destruction. Their whole approach is to blame America and demean our fighting men and women, not the enemies who threaten us.

"The far left believe themselves to be the intelligent and cultured elite who possess the only opinions that matter. They become apoplectic when reality collides whith their misguided worldview. The fact is that the average young man and woman serving in Iraq today is better educated than the average civilian American their age and comes from a higher income level than the average civilian American their age. The fact is that our troops are exemplary young men and women serving our country for patriotic and decent reasons. But instead of accepting these facts about our troops, they call them stupid, desperate and worse." -Newt Gingrich

Please think about this when you VOTE!

Homecoming ~ The Joy and The Sorrow

November 5, 2006, a Homecoming was held at Fort Carson, Colorado for this unit. In this Company were friends - one we knew before they left for Iraq, and now, several. While the joy of homecoming was great, there is bittersweet in the loss of friends that did not come home. Our friends asked me to promise to let people know about their friends who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This is an emotional promise to keep. To keep that promise, I invite you into the tribute their friends gave them in Iraq. Unlike most tributes written here, these are people who personally touched our lives. We will never forget them. I hope you will remember them now.

"Real American Heroes - SPC Grant Dampier and SSG Marion Flint are the biggest heroes I have ever met who died in combat on 15 May 2006. I miss you and I will never forget you. See you an the flip side brudda'." (from an email from one of our friends)

The memorial for Staff Sgt. Marion Flint Jr., squad leader, and Spc. Grant Dampier, gunner, both from 2nd Platoon, Company B, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, is displayed before the crowd of mourners at Forward Operating Base Paliwoda near Balad, Iraq

The Company B, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion Honor Guard fires volleys during the memorial for Staff Sgt. Marion Flint Jr., squad leader, and Spc. Grant Dampier, gunner, both from 2nd Platoon, Company B, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers. The two Soldiers were killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle May 15.The memorial took place May 24 at Forward Operating Base Paliwoda near Balad, Iraq

Capt. Keven Beattie, commander, Company B, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, and 1st Sgt. Joseph House, first sergeant, Co. B, 1-8 CAB, hold the identification tags of two of their comrades: Staff Sgt. Marion Flint Jr., squad leader, and Spc. Grant Dampier, gunner, both from 2nd Platoon, Co. B, 1-8 CAB, during the memorial at Forward Operating Base Paliwoda near Balad, Iraq.

BALAD, Iraq (May 24, 2006) - A memorial for two Soldiers from Company B, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers took place Wednesday in Forward Operating Base Paliwoda near Balad, Iraq.

Staff Sgt Marion Flint, Jr., squad leader, and Spc Grant Dampier, gunner, both from 2nd Platoon, Company B, 1-8 CAB, were killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle May 15.

"I will always bear a scar with this Band of Brothers and carry the leader's sense of responsibility for Marion's and Grant's death that day," said Capt. Keven Beattie, commander, Co. B, 1-8th CAB. "I take some solace knowing that these great Soldiers died doing what they always did, taking care of fellow Soldiers."

Flint joined the Army in 1997 and served with 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry during the initial ground invasion of Operation Iraqi Freedom I. Following his deployment, Flint moved to Fort Carson, Colorado, and joined Co. B, 1-8 CAB where he was a squad leader in 2nd Platoon. he was deployed to Iraq in 2005 with 1-8 CAB where he again served his country with distinction.

"To most people, Staff Sgt Flint was Staff Sgt Flint, but to the 2nd Platoon and those close to him he was know as 'big Flint'", said 1st Lt. Aaron Hackett, platoon leader, 2nd Platoon, Co. B, 1-8 CAB. "If you had the misfortune of not knowing him, he was the guy in the weight room 10 times a day with arms the size of my legs! Staff Sgt. Flint was my go to squad leader on missions, he was focused on everything he did, from leading and training his men to attempting to beat everyone he knew at spades."

Staff Sgt Ausean Fields, master gunner, 2nd Platoon, Co. B, 1-8 CAB, and Flint were gym rats as well as comrades. Flint and Fields' son share the same birthday. It was hard for Fields to overcome the emotions of the loss of his friend while paying tribute to him at the podium during the ceremony. "On every November 4, I will put an extra candle on my son's cake. I pray you'll get to blow it out, 'cause I believe you're still here," said Fields. "I believe your spirit will cast a shadow as big as your physical frame. I know the good and bad times we had that must go unsaid will forever be some of the best times of my life."

Some of the many decorations Flint was awarded were the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. Flint is survived by his wife Danielle, daughter Dyamond and son Malik.

Dampier joined the Army in 2004 and after completing basic training and advance individual training he was assigned to Fort Carson, Colorado. He joined Co B, 1-8 CAB as an infantryman where he served as a gunner for a Humvee and a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. He was deployed to Iraq with the Iron Brigade in December 2005 where he honorably served his unit and country. Before being deployed, he married his wife Heide, April 1, 2005. They have three daughters: Alexis, Starr and Kylee.

"He was always talking to somebody, always joking around or teasing somebody, and he wouldn't hesitate to tell you his opinion or tell you if he thought you were wrong," said Sgt. James Craig, 3rd Squad team leader, 2nd Platoon, Co. B, 1-8 CAB. "He would stop by my house a lot just to hang out and relax, help me organize a barbecue or drink some beers and work on my motorcycle in the garage. If you didn't know how to do it, you could bet that Dampier did, and you knew he was always willing to lend you a hand."

After Craig left the podium, one of Dampier's closest friends spoke about how dedicated a family man he was.

"One night back at Carson, one of his kids called him about one o'clock in the morning," said Pfc. Tyler Daly, gunner for a Bradley, 2nd Platoon, Co. B, 1-8 CAB. "She was crying her eyes out, saying over and over, 'Daddy, come home'. Dampier loved his family and hated the fact that he had to spend so much time away."

Some of Dampier's awards include the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.

Before the conclusion of the memorial, Chaplain (Maj.) James Hartz, 3rd HBCT, gave the benediction discussing how to get through these hard times.

"We are here today because tow of the Fighting Eagles' family have died, killed by an unseen hand and it hurts," said Hartz. "We are here to help true healing go forward. We are here to honor men who were friends and fellow Soldiers; who were both brothers and heroes. We are here to acknowledge their lives, recognize their sacrifice and remember the contributions that made to the Soldiers they served with and the families they loved."


Article and Photos: PFC Paul Harris
3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team,
4th Infantry Division, Public Affairs
DVIDS

Saddam Hussein Sentenced to Death

Last night, I sat up and anxiously waited for the verdict in the Saddam trial. This was the first instance of a tyrant and dictator being tried in his own country for his crimes against it. Before, these vile men have been taken to a place in Europe, tried in a language other than their own, and kept separate from the people whose lives they destroyed. But, the Iraqis stood up and held their own trial against Saddam and others for the crimes in Dujail.


In the wee hours of the morning, we kept waiting for the verdicts, but nothing was happening. Then, we learned that Ramsey Clark was having an altercation with the chief judge, and was thrown out of the courtroom. Finally, the verdicts began to be reported - one was released since the prosecution did not have enough evidence, three were given 15 years, three were sentenced to death for hanging. At long last, Saddam Hussein was sentenced to death for one of the many chapters in his tyranny.


A fine report of the verdict and sentencing comes from Mohammed and Omar Fadhil, of Iraq The Model. Here are a few excerpts:

"I was overwhelmed with joy and relief as I watched the criminals being read their verdicts. For the first time in our region tyrants are being punished for their crimes through a court of law.

"Right now volleys of bullets ring not far from where I sit, some are fired to express joy while others are fired in a desperate expression of denial but I have no doubt who is going to prevail. Although the road is long but we are walking forward and will not look back.

"I salute the honorable special tribunal that challenged threats and risks and insisted on keeping up the work until the end, and today it brought back the pride of this land that wrote the world's first laws.

"I salute the witnesses who risked their lives to reveal the truth and expose the crimes of the dictator.

"I salute the brave men and women of the coalition who came to this land and made this day possible.

"Congratulations to all my Iraqi brothers and sisters on this glorious day."


To read all of their comments, go to Pajamas Media

Saddam ~ Guilty

Saddam - GUILTY

Death by Hanging

I stayed up to watch the verdict.

It is quite emotional for me.

Iran Celebrates the Hostage Crisis

Today, the Iranians had large demonstrations against the United States, celebrating the taking of the US Embassy and the ensuing hostage crisis, 27 years ago.

Iranian protesters burn a banner which reads 'Death to America' Saturday Nov. 4, 2006 in front of former U.S embassy in Tehran, Iran during a demonstration. Iranian demonstrators Saturday celebrated the 27th anniversary of the takeover of the U.S. embassy in Tehran by militant students, warning the United States to learn from the incident. The protest was held as Iran continued a 10-day war games that on Saturday included the participation of some 30,000 ground forces. The students took 52 American diplomats hostage for 444 days. (AP Photo/Hasan Sarbakhshian)

Yahoo News

The Iran Hostage Crisis

November 4, 1979 - The Iran Hostage Crisis

"...in the aftermath of 9/11, we said, "My God, it began with us."

Bruce Laingan

Charge d'affaires of the US Embassy and Hostage

Iranian students take over the United States Embassy in Tehran, Iran

United States Embassy Hostages

On November 4, 1979, thousands of Iranian students, overran the US Embassy and took about 90 people captive. The non-Americans were freed. Later, some were freed, including the women (except for two) and blacks (except for one), on the grounds that they were unlikely to be spies and had suffered enough with the oppression of the Americans. Another hostage was released in July 1980 due to illness. 52 hostages were held for 444 days. Six others had escaped and taken refuge at other embassies. On January 28, 1980, Canadian diplomats helped these six to flee Iran. The Canadian Embassy was then closed.

Thousands of other protesters pressed around the embassy compound, responding to the call by the country's new leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, to attack US and Israeli interests. They demanded the return of the shah, Muhammad Reza Pahlevi, for trail and execution.

President Carter eventually halted oil imports from Iran, imposed a complete economic embargo, froze Iranian assets in the US and began diplomatic efforts to free the remaining hostages.

The hostages were finally released on January 20, 1981, moments after President Reagan was inagurated.

Today, the US Embassy in Iran serves as a museum to the revolution. It was opened in 2001. Outside the door are two bronze statues: the Statue of Liberty and a portrayal of one of the hostages. It is still the stage for angry demonstrations to chant anti-US and anti-Israeli slogans and to burn flags and effigies.

*********************************

Twenty seven years ago, the country gasped in horror as the symbol of America and our freedom was taken over in Iran. We stayed up to watch the news, to hope and pray for their release. Nightline with Ted Koppel was born for the purpose of covering the event. It was the first strike in our continuing war with radical Islam.

*********************************

The Hostages:

6 Evading Diplomats

Robert Anders, 34 - Consular Officer

Mark J. Lijek, 29 - Consular Officer

Cora A. Lijek, 25 - Consular Assistant

Henry L. Schatz, 31 - Agriculture Attaché

Joseph D. Stafford, 29 - Consular Officer

Kathleen F. Stafford, 28 - Consular Assistant



13 Women and African-American Personnel were captured, held hosage and released on 19-20 November, 1979

Kathy Gross, 22 - Secretary

Sgt. James Hughes, 30 - USAF Administrative Manager

Lillian Johnson, 32 - Secretary

Sgt. Ladell Maples, 23 - USMC Embassy Guard

Elizabeth Montagne, 42 - Secretary

Sgt. William Quarles, 23 - USMC Embassy Guard

Lloyd Rollins, 40 - Administrative Officer

Capt. Neal (Terry) Robinson, 30 - Administrative Officer

Terri Tedford, 24 - Secretary Sgt.

Joseph Vincent, 42 - USAF Administrative Manager

Sgt. David Walker, 25 - USMC Embassy Guard

Joan Walsh, 33 - Secretary

Cpl. Wesley Williams, 24 - USMC Embassy Guard



1 hostage captured, held and released on 11 July 1980 because of Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis

Richard I. Queen, 28 - Vice Consul 52

Remaining Hostages, held captive until 20 January, 1980

Thomas L. Ahern, Jr., -Narcotics Control Officer

Clair Cortland Barnes, 35 - Communications Specialist

William E. Belk, 44 - Communications and Records Officer

Robert O. Blucker, 54 - Economics Officer Specializing in Oil

Donald J. Cooke, 26 - Vice Consul

William J. Daugherty, 33 - 3rd Secretary of U.S. Mission

Lt. Cmdr. Robert Englemann, 34 - USN Attaché

Sgt. William Gallegos, 22 - USMC Guard

Bruce W. German, 44 - Budget Officer

Duane L. Gillette, 24 - USN Communications and Intelligence Specialist

Alan B. Golancinksi, 30 - Security Officer

John E. Graves, 53 - Public Affairs Officer

Joseph M. Hall, 32 - CWO Military Attaché

Sgt. Kevin J. Hermening, 21 - USMC Guard

Sgt. 1st Class Donald R. Hohman, 38 - USA Medic

Col. Leland J. Holland, 53 - Military Attaché

Michael Howland, 34 - Security Aide, held at Iranian Foreign Ministry Office

Charles A. Jones, Jr., 40 - Communications Specialist and Teletype Operator. Only African-American hostage not released in November 1979.

Malcolm Kalp, 42 - Affiliation Unknown

Moorhead C. Kennedy Jr., 50 - Economic and Commercial Officer

William F. Keough, Jr., 50 - Superintendent of American School in Islamabad, Pakistan, visiting Tehran at time of embassy seizure

Cpl. Steven W. Kirtley - USMC Guard

Kathryn L. Koob, 42 - Embassy Cultural Officer; one of two female hostages

Frederick Lee Kupke, 34 - Communications Officer and Electronics Specialist

L. Bruce Laingen, 58 - Chargé d'Affaires, held at Iranian Foreign Ministry Office

Steven Lauterbach, 29 - Administrative Officer

Gary E. Lee, 37 - Administrative Officer

Sgt. Paul Edward Lewis, 23 - USMC Guard

John W. Limbert, Jr., 37 - Political Officer

Sgt. James M. Lopez, 22 - USMC Guard

Sgt. John D. McKeel, Jr., 27 - USMC Guard

Michael J. Metrinko, 34 - Political Officer

Jerry J. Miele, 42 - Communications Officer

Staff Sgt. Michael E. Moeller, 31 - Head of USMC Guard Unit at Embassy

Bert C. Moore, 45 - Counselor for Administration

Richard H. Morefield, 51 - U.S. Consul General in Tehran

Capt. Paul M. Needham, Jr., 30 - USAF Logistcs Staff Officer

Robert C. Ode, 65 - Retired Foreign Service Officer on Temporary Duty in Tehran

Sgt. Gregory A. Persinger, 23 - USMC Guard

Jerry Plotkin, 45 - Civilian Businessman visiting Tehran

MSgt. Regis Ragan, 38 - USA NCO assigned to Defense Attaché's Office

Lt. Col. David M. Roeder, 41 - Deputy USAF Attaché

Barry M. Rosen, 36 - Press Attaché

William B. Royer, Jr., 49 - Assistant Director of Iran-American Society

Col. Thomas E. Schaefer, 50 - USAF Attaché

Col. Charles W. Scott, 48 - USA Officer, Military Attaché

Cmdr. Donald A. Sharer, 40 - USN Air Attaché

Sgt. Rodney V. (Rocky) Sickmann, 22 - USMC Guard

Staff Sgt. Joseph Subic, Jr., 23 - Military Police, USA, Defense Attaché's Staff

Elizabeth Ann Swift, 40 - Chief of Embassy's Political Section; 1 of 2 female hostages

Victor L. Tomseth, 39 - Senior Political Officer, held at Iranian Foreign Ministry Office

Phillip R. Ward, 40 - Administrative Officer



Constructed from Free At Last by Doyle McManus

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation ~ Sgt Michael Seeley

SGT Michael T. Seeley

Age 27, Died October 30, 2006,

Baghdad, Iraq

2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment,

2nd Brigade Combat Team,

4th Infantry Division,

Fort Hood, Texas

Sgt. Michael T Seeley was from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. He was a "citizen of North America", having dual citizenship in the United States and Canada. He was Mi'kmaq, one of the Aboriginal Tribes of North America, who have a long-standing tradition of First Nations people crossing the border to join the U. S. military. His rank was Corporal, but he was promoted to Sergeant in recognition of his dedication and hard work during two tours of duty in Iraq.

Seeley served in the Canadian Forces for almost two years before switching to the U. S. Marines. "The Marines are supposed to be the best. He figures he was the best and that's where he was going," his uncle said. He served with the Marines on his first tour of duty to Iraq, and in Japan, South America, and Africa in his four years. He enjoyed his experience in Iraq and was anxious to return. Upon his discharge from the Marines, he joined the U. S. Army and returned to Iraq last October. He was due to return to the U. S. on Saturday, but an IED prevented that.

His mother said he never questioned the war or his service in it. "He fully believed in it (the war). He fully believed that people were being hurt who shouldn't be hurt and it was their job to protect them. He believed Saddam Hussein had to be stopped and that's what he did."

"He knew the risks. He knew his job was dangerous. He always preached to me, 'Be ready if it does happen. If it doesn't, that's great, but be ready,' he would say to his family." He his survived by his mother, Theresa, his father, Lorne and five siblings.

Chief Terry Nelson of the Roseau River First Nation, an Ojibway, said the American military is more attractive than the Canadian Forces. "The U. S. army treats you a lot better. They're better equipped. In the States, you're well trained, and the spirit is different."

I am so proud of Mike," Berry Ann Lavallee, chief of the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council, said. "Like so many young aboriginal men and women, Seeley volunteered to serve without regard for what he was being asked to do."

Information from the Edmonton Sun and the Canoe Network.

Rest now, fallen comrade,

For I bear honor upon your sacred place.

Rest now, fallen comrade,

For I stand castling freedom

Upon your resting place.

Fight no more, fallen comrade,

For I am here to see we are free.

For I will stand, fallen comrade,

Having full knowledge my dress and

Actions reflect on those that surround me,

For I represent a nation

And the state in which I serve.

So rest now, fallen comrade,

For I will bear honor upon this

Sacred place you now honor.

Sergeant Christopher Adams,

Maryland National Guard, Honor Guard

The Face of Victory & The Face of Defeat

The Face of Victory

I was not going to discuss the John Kerry fiasco, not because I don't have an opinion or two or three or four, but because everyone has, and I decided to keep my blood pressure under control. However, when it went into a third day, and my blood pressure continued to rise, I began to think about it more and more. What caused me to jump in this pond was an email from a soldier in Iraq that I received this morning. An excerpt says, "The troops here are really really getting tired of the media coverage from the networks trying to throw the elections - it pisses us off because they are not reporting the truth." (Note, said soldier is currently working on his Master's Degree while in Iraq.) I received two others with a few choice words for 'Carry". Then, I received the above picture of our troops demonstrating, in the midst of a war zone, their intelligent humor over a disgusting situation. God Bless, 'Em!!!

The Face of Defeat

"You know, education, if you make the most of it, if you study hard and you do your homework, and you make an effort to be smart, uh, you, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq." -John Kerry (If you haven't seen it, you can here.)

I have a 35 year history of not respecting John Kerry. It goes back to Vietnam and the Winter Soldier and New Soldier events. I watched him gain prominence for himself by demeaning the men he had served with. He said heinous things about the soldiers in his testimony to Congress, he threw his medals away in disgust, in short, he made a name for himself. But, while he was doing this, he hurt many people. A friend of mine, wounded in Vietnam, was so disheartened by what Kerry said, that he couldn't bear to be thought of the way Kerry portrayed him, was caused great pain, and eventually his death. I admit it, for 35 years I have had a difficult time being civil when his name was mentioned. His latest stunt, just confirms for me, that he has nothing but disdane for anyone who serves this country in a military capacity, but is willing to use them for personal gain.

John Kerry wrote a book, which he will no longer allow to be published, probably because of the inaccuracies and venom, called The New Soldier. It is available on the web FOR FREE at www.freekerrybook.com . It includes his testimony before Congress (beginning on Page 106). If you want to know who this man is, this is the place to find out - from his own words:

"The New Soldier does not accept the old myths. We will not quickly join those who march on Veterans' Day waving small flags, calling to memory those thousand who died for the 'greater glory of the United States.' We will not accept the rhetoric... We will not take solace from the creation of monuments or the naming of parks after a select few of the thousands of dead Americans... We will not uphold traditions which decorously memorialize that which was base and grim."

John Kerry meant to be condescending and critical. It is who he is. His written "apology" is merely a political necessity after his statement and his press conference to refuse to apologize. Who knows if he, or his staff, wrote it. Why so visible to scream "I will not apologize" and a silent posting on a web page "I apologize." I will probably never forgive him for his slander and demeaning of our troops...not then, not now.

Worst of all, I believe that he wants failure in Iraq, in all things military, and if you read his book you will understand why I believe this.

Valour-IT

Project Valour IT

WHAT: Friendly fundraising competition for Valour-IT.

WHEN: October 30th through Veterans Day, November 10th .

WHERE: Based in the blogosphere, spreading everywhere else.

WHY: Because giving wounded warriors with hand and arm injuries access to a computer supports their healing and puts them back in touch with the world.

HOW: Blogger teams will be divided along military branches, with civilians "up for grabs."

Valour-IT is a program run through Soldiers Angels, that provides laptops and voice recognition software to our wounded troops. This enables them to continue to communicate with their family and friends, even with severe hand and arm injuries. Capt. Chuck Zeigenfuss was a recipient of one of these laptops, and you can read more about the competition here. This year, there are Army, Navy, Marine and Air Force teams trying to out do one another in the fund raising!!! You can see where the teams stand and make your PayPal donation here. or at the box on the right. All donations are tax deductible.

The Goal in $180,000 - each team is trying to get $45,000 in donations. While large donations are nice, how about foregoing today's latte and giving $5.00 ???

(I have joined all four teams with equal donations, since I love them all ~ but, I have to say, that even though Navy is trailing, this team is working hardest!!)

Wednesday Hero ~ 2LT Emily Perez

2nd Lt. Emily Perez
25 years old from Fort Washington, Maryland
204th Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division
September 12, 2006


The nation is mourning the death of Lt Emily Perez, 23, the first Black woman to serve as corps commander sergeant major at West Point. Perez, who graduated in the top 10 percent of her class, out-ran many men, directed a gospel choir, read the Bible every day. She also headed a weekly convoy as it rolled down treacherous roads, pocked with bombs and bullets near Najaf, Iraq. As platoon leader, she insisted on leading her troops from the front. She died Sept. 12 when a bomb detonated near her Humvee in Kifl, south of Baghdad. Shortly before shipping out to Iraq with the 204th Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, she flew cross-country to be a bone marrow donor for a stranger who was a match. She was the 64th woman from the U.S. military to be killed in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Quick and intense. That's how Emily J.T. Perez performed on the track, one coach said - and the same could be said for the rest of her short life. She was a star student and talented athlete. She was a captain of her high school track team and a leader at her alma mater, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. She helped start an AIDS ministry at her church.

The rest of Lt. Perez's story can be found here.

These brave men and women have given their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.

We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Those Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes, They Just Don't Know Where To Look

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.

Blogs Participating In Wednesday Hero
Yankee Mom
Bear Creek Ledger
Mail Call! Supporting The Troops
Yeah, Right, Whatever
CrosSwords
Gazing At The Flag
Hooah Wife & Friends
Right-Wing & Right Minded

Happy Halloween!!!!

In the last election, over 100,000 votes were cast by dead people... that were identified. Of those, they were 4:1 Democrat to Republican. No wonder the politicians don't want voters to show ID when they cast their ballots!!!!!

Toys for Tots ~ Iraq Style

I found this information in the Victory Times, October 26, 2006 issue. We are all familiar with the Toys for Tots drives here in the United States, but this drive is for the children of Iraq.

While in the midst of a war, our troops, once again, impress me with the generosity and compassion of their spirit. They are collecting toys for all ages for the children of Iraq.

If you or your family or friends would like to help, mail toys to:

Col. Robert Whitters

MNF-4 / Coalition Operations

Victory Base South

APO AE 09342-1400

Do You Want America to Win?

Do YOU Want America to Win?

Cartoon from Cox & Forkum.

It is the "silly season" - the time when our politicians INSIST on making sure we know what vacuous excuses for humanity they are, and the time when we jump on the the bandwagon of the insipid and voice our opinions - not bothering to find out if we have any facts to back them up or not. We hear a lot of "I feel" when engaged in any form of political discourse.

We also don't often bother to vote at all. Guess we insist on being vacuous, too.

Anyone who reads my blog will know a few things about me... I am first, and foremost, an American. An American who loves this country. I am inspired by our history - the good and the bad. The Founding Fathers form the pantheon of my heroes, surrounded by all of those who have acted heroically to maintain and sustain the nation. I am humbled by and inspired by our military men and women - I honor them, always - and believe they are the BEST of America. I am traditional in my belief and value system, as it applies to me, but tolerant of others, as long as they respect me, too. I believe that "the government that governs best, governs least." I am not a partisan. I hate political parties and believe that they are controlled by the Peter Principle - everyone rises one level higher than they should be placed. I believe that most politicians are idiots, immoral, dishonest, condescending, and I wouldn't allow them in my home. I am not, however, an Independent on any ballot - since in my state you can not vote in any primary if you register that way. When I cast any ballot, I give my vote to the person most likely to uphold the foundations of this country and to do the least harm. Isn't that sad?

Since May, The Media has been telling us that the Democrats will soon be running the country and that the Republicans can't win. I believe it is all free political advertising to get you to not bother to research your own candidates and vote like they want you to, or not vote at all. And, just in case the Democrats snatch defeat from the jaws of victory once again, they will have a basis to shout, "Fraud."

The only question that will sway my vote is, "Do you want America to win?"

Unfortunately, anything that is more complicated than the voting system on Survivor, American Idol, or Dancing with the Stars, seems to be beyond the American interest level. While we are faced with an enemy who wants to eradicate our very survival, people can't be bothered to learn about what is going on. They want simple solutions to complicated problems. I don't believe that our government has done us any favors by not giving enough information to the public, either.

Recently, I heard Walid Phares, author of Future Jihad, Terrorist Strategies Against America and The War of Ideas, Jihad Against Democracy (to be released Feb 2007), speaking about the upcoming elections. He believes that the insurgents want to divide America and to influence our elections and also believes that they are having some success at doing so.

"It seems that the US is having a hard time winning the hearts and minds of Arabs and Muslims, but an equally serious problem can be observed in the intellectual circles of America where some have had a difficulty coming to terms with the terminology of the War of Ideas. If the educated elite of the United States is incapable of identifying the ideology and the strategy of the Jihadists five years after 9/11, we not only have a problem with handling the War in Iraq, but also with this future of American national security as a whole." -Walid Phares

Read the entire essay here.

"One could go on at length, but the bottom line is that the radical Islamists, especially those engaged in warfare with the United States, are not politically blind. They know our system, and have figured out its weaknesses. In short, they have sought to discover our Achilles heel, and our efforts have been to counter them first through intelligence and followed by preemption.

It is simple. Al Quaida kills US soldiers in Iraq, al Jazeera films the scene, mainstream media relays the events to the West and critics of the war bring it home to the debate. The Administration is accused of failure, and its leaders are blasted for choosing the path of war in Iraq." - Walid Phares

Read the entire essay here. See Walid Phares on video here.

Bernard Lewis, the Cleveland E Dodge professor emeritus of Near Eastern Studies, Princeton University, recently said, "If Churchill had faced the opposition that President Bush faces today, Hilter might well have won."

Regardless of your feelings about the War in Iraq, if you believe that leaving there before the job is finished will accomplish anything positive, you have chosen not to educate yourself on the threat that has come to finish this country off.

When I vote, the question in my mind as I mark my ballot will be, "Do you want American to win?"

Lady Liberty

Happy Birthday, Lady Liberty!!

Perhaps the most recognizable symbol of

the United States of America,

the Statue of Liberty is 120 years old today.

The statue was originally known as Liberty Enlightening the World. She was built as a joint venture between the French and the Americans with the Centennial of 1876 in mind, to commemorate the unity between the countries during the Revolutionary War. The French built the statue, designed by sculptor Fredric Auguste Bartholdi, and engineered by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (designer of the Eiffel Tower.) The Americans chose the placement and built the pedestal, designed by Richard Morris Hunt. Financing on both sides of the ocean was difficult, and the dedication occured ten years later than planned. But, the torch was delivered in time for the Centennial of the country.

The dedication of the statue was held on October 18, 1886. President Grover Cleveland dedicated the statue in New York Harbor amidst much celebration.

The statue depicts a woman escaping the chains of tyranny, which lie at her feet. Her right hand holds aloft a burning torch that represents liberty. Her left hand holds a tablet inscribed JULY IV MCCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776), representing the day the United States declared its Independence.

Now known as Liberty Island, the statue was placed in the courtyard of the star shaped walls at Fort Wood, which had been completed for the War of 1812. It was declared a National Monument on October 15, 1924.

Most important is the symbol the Statue of Liberty has become in the United States and around the world. It is believed to be the most recognized symbol in the world.

Happy Birthday, Lady Liberty!!!

Statue of Liberty WebCam

Soldiers Provide Medical Care in Small Iraq Town

Soldiers Set Up Medical Operations

in Rushdi Mulla, Iraq

SPC Carrielynn Spillis, of Toledo, Ohio, a medic with Company C, 210th Brigade Support Battalion, attached to 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, examines a young Iraqi girl, October 19 in Rushdi Mulla, south of Baghdad. the medical operation also determined what medical supplies the townspeople need.

U S Army Photo by SPC Chris McCann

MAJ Casey Geaney (right) of Ashland, Wisconsin, a doctor with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, and CPT Richard Galgon (left), a doctor with Company C, 210th Brigade, both of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, examine Iraqi children, October 19 in Rushdi Mullah, south of Baghdad.

U S Army Photo by Chris McCann

U. S. Medics provide aid, assess medical needs for small Iraqi town
By SPC Chis McCann, October 25, 2006
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division

The first few were hesitant, coming in by ones and twos, but soon the floodgates opened and the citizens of Rushdi Mulla came from all over town to receive medical care October 19 at a Multi-National Division - Baghdad Operation.

The medical operation was conducted by soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, in the small town of Rushdi Mulla, and was intended mostly to get an idea of what medical supplies were needed and to determine what clinics and health care providers were available in the area.

"It's what we came to do, besides taking care of our own," said SPC Carrielynn Spillis, a native of Toledo, Ohio, and a medic with Company c, 210th Brigade Support Battalion, attached to 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment. "It's nice being able to come here and help them."

Kazar, a resident of Rushdi Mulla, brought his cousin's son, Mustafa, to the operation to have the 1 year-old boy's hand treated for an injury.

Medics washed it and applied antibacterial ointment and explained, through an interpreter, that each finger would have to be wrapped separately to keep them from healing together.

"I'm glad the Americans came to help," Kasar said.

"We're planning treatment...to provide for local civilians in the area," said SGT Jason Lane, a medic with 4-31 Infantry Regiment. "We had a very good turnout, didn't see anything too extreme, and we have a better idea of what to expect in this area."

"Initially they were fairly timid," he said. "By the end of the operation, they were more personable, particularly the children."

The soldiers brought bags of toys - everything from plush animals to squeezable rubber ducks, which seemed to transcend the language barrier and brought smiles.

Initially, the operation was announced over loudspeakers throughout the neighborhood; but after a poor showing to start the operation, soldiers went door-to-door to get the word out.

"When we did the foot patrol with announcements, we saw a huge change in turnout," said MAJ Robert Griggs, a native of Colusa, California, and plans officer for 4-31 Infantry Regiment.

It wasn't only the medics who made the operation work. "We went out to distract the enemy so the medics could act," said PFC James Cook, Company D, 4-31 Infantry Regiment. "We set up three traffic control points to search vehicles and patrolled the areas... It was all quiet."

"We kept an eye on things to make sure soldiers didn't get hurt. We all came back in one piece. It was a good patrol," said PFC Samuel Rhodes, also of D Company.

"It;s a positive step in the war on terror," said 1st LT Aaron Brooks, of Syracuse, New York, the medical platoon leader, 4-31 Infantry Regiment. "The Iraqis trust us enough to seek health care, and we are willing to give it in any way possible... The end state should be that we help support the Ministry of Health to do its own medical operations."

*************************
Another good news story about the many accomplishments that are being made in Iraq by our fine military men and women. It makes me proud to be an American! Thank you all!!!!!

General Peter Pace Speaks to America

Our enemy knows they cannot defeat us in battle.

They do believe, however, they can wear down our will as a nation.

They are wrong.

This will not be easy.

This will not be quick.

This will not be without sacrifice.

But, we will persist and we will prevail.

- General Peter Pace

On Tuesday, October 24, General Peter Pace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, held a press conference at the Pentagon. Fortunately, I was able to see it. If you were not, you can see it via C-SPAN here. You can read the transcript here.

We have an obligation as citizens, to make sure that we listen to our leaders and evaluate what they say, before we give our opinions or our votes to anyone.

*********************************
Jim Garamone of the American Forces Press Service wrote two articles about the press conference, which are posted below.


Pace: Will of American People is Enemy's 'Center of Gravity'

The American people will make the right decisions in Iraq if they understand what’s at stake in the war on terror, the top U.S. military general said here today.

“Baghdad is the center of gravity in Iraq, and the American people are the center of gravity for our enemies,” Marine Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during a Pentagon news conference.

In military terms, an opponent's “center of gravity” is what prevents a force from accomplishing its objectives. For the United States, Baghdad is the most important city in Iraq and one that other sections in Iraq will follow. It is the center of gravity for the fight against terrorism in the country, he said.

The will of the American people to carry on the war on terror prevents the enemy from meeting its objective; it is the enemy’s center of gravity, Pace said.

He said Americans may be getting an overly pessimistic view of the war in Iraq. “If you go back to the beginning of this war, you remember we had 24-7 coverage of the war,” he said. “Any citizen who wanted to could avail themselves of as much information as they wanted to and come to their own decision about what we were doing right and what we were doing wrong.”

But as time went on, other stories crowded out this 24-7 coverage. News is a business, Pace said, and time, column inches and Internet space went to other stories. “So the time that's allocated ends up being allocated to the things that go ‘bang’ -- not the schools that are being built, not the girls that are going to go to school, not the highways that are being built, not the crops that are being grown, not the agreements that are being made politically, but the bombs that have been going off is what's being shown,” he said.

Pace said he believes that as a military leader, it is his responsibility to answer questions “so the American people can listen to my answers and answers from others and questions from others, from both sides of the problem, so they can make their own judgment.”

If leaders make that information available to the American people, they will find the right center of balance and make the right decision, he said. Pace said he has confidence that America will choose wisely.

Pace Confident Americans Will Grasp Nature of Terrorist Threat

The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff today expressed confidence that the American people will unite to defeat the terrorist threat once they see it for what it is.

At a Pentagon news conference, Marine Gen. Peter Pace said he is not “discouraged or disappointed” with the situation in Iraq and that the United States faces a long fight against an enemy that wants to destroy the American way of life.

The terrorist enemy has a 100-year plan, the chairman noted. “They've told us they want to go and establish a caliphate from Spain to Indonesia, and from there they want to attack the rest of the free world,” Pace said.

He said the terrorists have been at war with the United States since the late 1970s. Americans didn’t realize this until Sept. 11, 2001. “We're in this war primarily right now in Iraq and in Afghanistan, but when we are complete and successful in assisting the Iraqi government and in assisting the Afghan government, we are still … going to face decades of individuals and cells and groups that want to destroy our way of life,” he said.

The United States can handle this, the chairman said. “We as a nation have capacity to do whatever we need to do for the long haul to protect our children and our grandchildren. We've proved it against the Soviet Union,” he said.

Once Americans understood the nature of the Soviet threat, they worked together to provide the right resources and the determination to protect the country, Pace said, adding that it didn’t matter what party was in the White House.

He said the same will happen once Americans understand the nature of the enemy confronting the nation today. “I have great faith in the balance of the American people, and I take great comfort in knowing that as we are able to articulate what this threat is really about, that the American people will continue to stand side by side and behind us, and that we will be given the resources … to fight this war,” the chairman said.

“I am not looking forward to decades of having to be vigilant,” he said, “but I am looking forward to my grandkids living in the same United States that I grew up in.”

From Defenselink

An Iraqi Hero

U.S. and Iraqi engineers working together at the An Nasiriyah drainage pump station project.

U. S. Army photos by James Bullinger.

By Polli Barnes Keller
Gulf Region North
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

TIKRIT---Having one brother murdered and a brother-in-law kidnapped and tortured, Sa'ad Rasheed narrowly escaped with his life, but continues working in the reconstruction of his country.

Daily, Iraq is featured in western media headlines. Reports of insurgents jam the news waves with doom and gloom. While the dangers are real and bad things happen, the real stories here are the ones of bravery and dedication.

Bricks and mortar may not be as exciting or as riveting as insurgents ambushing the innocent, but dedication and commitment to rebuilding a country, risking life and limb in doing so is certainly worthy of headline news and the attention of the world.

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Gulf Region North, employs 53 Iraqi citizens working in different fields of expertise. From project managers to construction representatives, these citizens are working to rebuild their country and their future in spite of the dangers in doing so.

One such employee is Sa'ad Rasheed, deputy resident engineer for a U. S. Army Corps of Engineers' resident office. Rasheed, an engineer by trade and veteran of the Iran-Iraq War in 1980, has journeyed through many heartbreaking moments in his life. Yet, he refuses to quit the mission and remains focused on ensuring a better future for his children and theirs to come.

Witnessing the suffering and damage committed to the Kuwaiti people by the government, Rasheed cultivated disappointment and hatred for the ruthless dictatorship that held Iraq captive. It was 1990 when his hopes and dreams for a better Iraq were restored as he watched U. S. Forces invade Kuwait.

But, these hopes and dreams soon faded as the war stopped dramatically and the U. S. embargo began. More and more each day, the poor people felt the stronghold of the restrictions put on Iraq while watching the regime grow in strength. Rasheed was again filled with disappointment.

Eight years later, elated with joy, Rasheed watched as the American Soldiers entered Baghdad and toppled statues of Saddam Hussein. Within days, he and his elder brother stood in front of the Meridian Hotel in Baghdad offering their services to the Americans.

While working as a linguist for the U. S. Army Civil Military Operations Center in Mosul, he received and opportunity to work with the 326th Engineering Battalion - 101st Division. It was here he gained a great respect for the American Soldier. he saw the great men of this organization as symbols of a high standard of humanity. He witnessed their discipline and respect for their mission and for Iraq.

Having an engineering background, it wasn't long before the leaders of the 326th offered Rasheed a position. The establishment of the American Field Engineering Support Team (AFEST) opened the door for a new life.

The AFEST team, designed to train Iraqi engineers in making assessments and estimating damage to buildings and facilities, worked with its counterpart, the Iraqi Field Engineering Support Team (IFEST) made up of local engineers in making key plans for all the damaged buildings and facilities in Mosul and the surrounding Northern provinces. Rasheed was the first Iraqi engineer hired.

Within eighteen months, the IFEST team possessed the expertise and capability to work on their own. The team covered most facilities in Mosul including hospitals, clinics, schools, police stations, courthouses, banks, electrical plants, water and irrigation stations, border facilities, grain silos, cement, textile and sugar factories, as well as oil deposits and refineries.

"The work was pure engineering, not mixed with any expectations or surprises; the common theme was the good relationship with the U. S. and the mutual care and understanding on both official and personal categories," said Rasheed.

Good things were happening with the reconstruction effort; however, the security situation worsened by the day. The engineers began receiving threats. Realizing they had no protection, members of the team began to leave for fear of losing their lives. Rasheed, the last engineer, moved his family three times to stay one step ahead of insurgents. Finally, no longer able to return to his office for fear of being seen, he decided to resign and the missions came to a stand still.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineer offered Rasheed a position in a northern region where it was sager. It was clear to him that the Corps truly cared about the people of Iraq, so he accepted the position and immediately moved his family.

Unfortunately, the insurgents did not give up. Two months after moving his family to the north, Rasheed's brother was murdered in front of an Internet cafe in Mosul. Still looking for information concerning his whereabouts, the insurgents kidnapped and tortured his 18-year old brother-in-law. The young man escaped during the night and went into hiding in Baghdad.

Still, they did not stop. The relentless team of insurgents went to the young man's home and threatened his 72-year old father. Swearing Rasheed has left the country, the gentleman paid the criminals $300,000 to ensure the safety of his refugee son. The stress of the event caused the old man to suffer a heart attack. He died a few weeks later. Grief stricken and afraid, Rasheed sent word to Baghdad for the brother-in-law to come north and live with his family.

Again, they would be tormented. Information received from friends in Mosul led to the evacuation of his family to yet another area in the north. The insurgents knew of his location and were on their way.

During this time of fear and unrest, Rasheed continued to work for the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. His hope for the future is that the U. S. and Iraq stay in contact and have more interaction for the good of both countries. He would like his people to participate in training courses and lectures, preferably in the U. S. so his country can observe and learn the system of democracy and liberty where it all began; to see the place where freedom has a real meaning.

CENTCOM News

Wednesday Hero ~ Captain Lyle L Gordon

Captain Lyle L. Gordon

30 years old from Midlothian, Texas

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361,

Marine Aircraft Group 16,

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing,

Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar

Died January 26, 2005

Ever since Marine Capt. Lyle Gordon was a kid growing up in the small North Texas town of Midlothian, he had dreams of flying high and fast.

As a thrill-seeking youngster, he must have watched the 1980s fighter pilot movie 'Top Gun' hundreds of times, his mother, Mary Gordon, recalls.

"I'm gonna fly, I'm gonna fly," she said. "That's all he ever wanted."

Most recently, Gordon had visions of one day blending his loves of flying and animals by owning a horse ranch. There, his piloting skills would come in handy, as he could fly high above his sprawling dream ranch while getting a bird's-eye view of his herd.

The Texas A&M University graduate was killed in a helicopter crash in Iraq on January 26, 2005. Gordon was one of 31 service members who died when a CH-53E Super Stallion went down in a sandstorm in Ar Rutbah.

Gordon's family said Friday they take comfort in knowing he was fulfilling his dream of serving as a pilot in the military. Finding the good in any situation is a lesson they learned from him.

"He was always happy no matter what," Mary Gordon said. "He could find something to laugh about in almost any situation."

Gordon graduated from Midlothian High School in 1993 and earned a bachelor's degree in animal science from Texas A&M in December 1999.

He has always wanted to attend the university and proud to be a member of Corps of Cadets Company E-2, the outfit in charge of caring for A&M's canine mascot, Reveille.

"He said, 'If I'm not in E-2, then I'm not in the Corps," his mother said. "That's the kind of person he was. He had a direction. He knew exactly what he wanted. He didn't care if anyone followed him. He was going to do it."

Before going to Officer Candidates School, Gordon made one last trip to the Bryan-College Station area to say goodbye to old college buddies. It was then that he net his wife-to-be, Kaci Yates, Class of 2000. The two corresponded through letters before getting married in 2002.

While in Iraq at Christmastime, Gordon helped deliver more than 100 packages to soldiers. People in his hometown had gathered to make care packages, which then were sent to Gordon. He, in return, dispersed them to soldiers who lacked much correspondence from home.

"He was always getting some package from us, but he also knew there were a lot of boys over there that never heard from anyone," Mary Gordon said. "He just wanted to bring some joy to them."

Gordon's time overseras was nearing an end. He was due to return home in March, his mother said.

"But instead, he went to his final home," she said. "We are blessed that he wasn't sent home an invalid with a body he couldn't use and an angry young man. We feel that God blessed us by that."

************************

These brave men and women have given their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call him hero.

We Have Every Right To Dream Heroic Dreams.
Thosse Who Say That We're In A Time When There Are No Heroes,
They Just Don't Know Where To Look.

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. If you would like to participate in honoring the brave men and women who serve this great country, you can find out how by clicking here.


Blogs participating in Wednesday Hero:

Yankee Mom

Bear Creek Ledger

Mail Call! Supporting the Troops

Yeah, Right, Whatever

CrosSwords

Gazing at the Flag

Hooah Wife & Friends

Right Wing & Right Minded

Wednesday Hero Blogroll

I have just joined a group of bloggers who celebrate our heroes each Wednesday. I am honored to be a part of this group and to remind people of the heroes that are everywhere around us. Heroes are not part of a singing group, or actors, or others working at a trade. They are people who put the welfare of others and of their country ahead of themselves and at great personal cost. Most of them are found in the United States Military.

A Final Farewell and God Speed

We should not mourn those who die,

instead we should thank God that they lived.

On September Eleventh, as part of the 2,996 project, I celebrated the life of Major Dwayne Williams who was killed at the Pentagon. We just made a trip to the east coast and went to Arlington Cemetery, where we paid a visit to his grave. It sits in the shadows of the Pentagon with the Pentagon Memorial and the graves of many of the people lost that day. They are buried together, just as they died. It was our opportunity to thank him for all that he gave to our country, and to remember all that was taken from us on that day.



The Pentagon Memorial for September Eleventh is in the shape of the Pentagon and engraved with the names of all who were taken that day - both in the building and on the airplane.



At the Memorial are reminders of the living who still grieve to this day ~ mementos and flowers. It is a very solemn place, far away from the crowds of tourists stomping through the cemetery. We walked for a long way to get there, and saw so much of the cemetery that no one ever does. There are incrdible monuments and memorials. It is humbling to say the least. Peaceful. Quiet. Respectful. It was an honor to do the walk and be able to give a silent tribute to the many who rest there.


Near the September Eleventh Memorial is the area being used for the fallen from Iraq and Afghanistan. Many of the graves had visitors, even more had flowers. It is an experience that will ever stay with us... the cost of war is so great, the losses personal and painful, and we have so much to thank them for. So when you smell the sweetness of freedom each day, remember who paid the cost for you.

Farewell and God Speed, Major Williams.

My tributes to Major Williams are in the September 2006 archives.