Troops in Iraq Remember September Eleventh

25th Infantry Division Soldiers form-up in preparation for a Sept. 11, remembrance ceremony at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, Sept. 11.

Commanding General, Multi-National Division-North, Major General Benjamin R. Mixon speaks to soldiers at a Sept. 11, remembrance ceremony on Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, Sept. 11. Mixon spoke to troops at the ceremony about the importance of the continued fight against terrorism to prevent another such attack in America.

Soldiers bow their heads in prayer for the victims of the Sept. 11, attacks at a remembrance ceremony on Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, Sept. 11.

Soldiers observe a moment of silence during a Sept. 11, remembrance ceremony on Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, Sept. 11.

Commanding General, Multi-National Division-North, Major General Benjamin R. Mixon salutes a soldier after speaking at a Sept. 11, remembrance ceremony on Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, Sept. 11. Mixon spoke to troops at the ceremony about the importance of the continued fight against terrorism to prevent another such attack in America.

Pictures by Spc. Eric Rutherford

115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Eric is my friend.

He has recently arrived in Iraq and I look forward to his reporting and photography.

Wednesday Hero ~ SSG Richard P Ramey

Staff Sgt. Richard P. Ramey
27 years old from Canton, Ohio
703rd Ordinance Company, supporting the 82nd Airborne Division
February 8, 2004


Richard Ramey always knew what he was going to be. Once, while in the third grade, his teacher asked him what he wanted to do when he grew up. His response? "I'll go to war and fight" Concerned by his answer, his teacher called his mother, Julie Ramey. She told her "No, that's my son".

SSgt. Ramey was killed when insurgents attacked his and other convoys in Mahmudiyah, Iraq.

"Richard loved to do his job. No matter where it would take him," said his mother. "He really felt deeply that he wanted to protect people that couldn't protect themselves"

In a statement released through Fort Knox, the Ramey family said, "He was adventurous and smart, combining both qualities in what he did for the Army. We knew his work was dangerous but also knew he wouldn't have wanted to do anything else".

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives

so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday.

For that, I am proud to call them Hero.

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll.

September Eleventh ~ Do You Still Remember?

I will NEVER forget.

September Eleventh ~ Six Years Later

Some pictures will be engraved permantly in the collective memory of those who observed the events of September Eleventh. These same pictures will eventually make their way into history books and movies. People will be asked if they remember September Eleventh - where they were - what they thought. For many, they will let it fade into distant recesses, while others will struggle to keep it in the forefront of the reality of the world they live in. There are those that were personally touched by loss and injury that day who will forever grieve. For most of us, we were touched by the attack on the American Spirit. We have fought back and tried to move forward, building a stronger American Spirit. Some seem to be waiting for defeat. Each of us should go back to that day to remember how we felt and we should learn the stories of those who died and those who survived.

Last year's Tribute on September Eleventh:

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/september-eleventh-five-years-later.html

Story from Stephanie L Hoehne about her day in the Pentagon:

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/history-is-our-stories-one-from.html

Tributes to Major Dwayne Williams - lost at the Pentagon:

I remember Major Dwayne Williams

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/major-dwayne-williams-i-remember.html

Memorials to Major Dwayne Williams

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/major-dwayne-williams-memorials.html

The Family of Major Dwayne Williams

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/major-dwayne-williams-family-remembers.html

Memories from the friends of Major Dwayne Williams

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/09/major-dwayne-williams-friends-remember.html

Visiting the grave of Major Dwayne Williams

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/10/final-farewell-and-god-speed.html

This year I am paying tribute to Angelene C Carter who lost her life in the Pentagon.

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/09/remembering-angelene-c-carter.html

Remembering Angelene C. Carter

On a bright and beautiful late summer morning, Angelene and her husband, Fred Carter, drove to the Suitland Metro station. They took the same train across the Anacostia River, then went their separate ways. It was the last time Fred would see Angelene. Later that morning, Angelene was on the phone with one of her daughters in Belgium, when the line went dead. No one would ever talk to Angelene again.


Angelene C Carter was born February 6, 1950. She grew up in Peachland, North Carolina. She took accounting classes at night to earn her degree. For 26 years, she was a devoted employee of the government, spending the last eight years in the Pentagon as a staff accountant for the Department of the Army. She died on that bright and beautiful morning of September 11, 2001, when a plane slammed into the Pentagon in an act of terrorism.


Angelene met her husband, Fred, at a Christmas Party. She asked him to dance. They were married two years later. She collected shot glasses from all of the places that she and Fred visited, though she did not drink. She was a member of the St Paul Baptist Church in Capitol Heights, Maryland - a member of the Adult Usher Board and various Bible Study Groups.


"She was an 'ordinary' person whose God-given vision and mission was to accomplish 'extraordinary' goals in life. Her philosophy on life was validated every day by her quiet character and conduct, by insuring that her work assignments and performance supported the level of services and expectations of her superiors and professional peers. She exhibited outstanding strength and leadership, which served as an example to her family, co-workers, church and friends." (DOD Release)

Angelene is survived by her loving husband, Fred A Carter (retired Army Sergeant); her mother Leona D Cash; two daughters, Angenette Cash and Freddye Jean Carter; three step-daughters, Venus Scott, Victoria Carter, and Cheryl Carter; two sisters, Linda C Reid and Deloise C Thorne; and two brothers Claude and Donnie Cash.


Angelene Carter is buried in the Arlingtion National Cemetery near the Pentagon Memorial.

General David H Petraeus

Gen. David H. Petraeus
Commanding General
Multi-National Force - Iraq

General David H. Petraeus assumed command of the Multi-National Force-Iraq on February 10th, 2007, following his assignment as the Commanding General, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth. Prior to assuming command at Ft. Leavenworth, he was the first commander of the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, which he led from June 2004 to September 2005, and the NATO Training Mission- Iraq, which he commanded from October 2004 to September 2005. That deployment to Iraq followed his command of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), during which he led the “Screaming Eagles” in combat throughout the first year of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His command of the 101st followed a year deployed on Operation Joint Forge in Bosnia, where he was the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations of the NATO Stabilization Force and the Deputy Commander of the US Joint Interagency Counter-Terrorism Task Force-Bosnia. Prior to his tour in Bosnia, he spent two years at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, serving first as the Assistant Division Commander for Operations of the 82nd Airborne Division and then as the Chief of Staff of XVIII Airborne Corps.

General Petraeus was commissioned in the Infantry upon graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1974. He has held leadership positions in airborne, mechanized, and air assault infantry units in Europe and the United States, including command of a battalion in the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and a brigade in the 82nd Airborne Division. In addition, he has held a number of staff assignments: Aide to the Chief of Staff of the Army; battalion, brigade, and division operations officer; Military Assistant to the Supreme Allied Commander - Europe; Chief of Operations of the United Nations Force in Haiti; and Executive Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

General Petraeus was the General George C. Marshall Award winner as the top graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College Class of 1983. He subsequently earned MPA and Ph.D. degrees in international relations from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, and later served as an Assistant Professor of International Relations at the US Military Academy. He also completed a fellowship at Georgetown University.

Awards and decorations earned by General Petraeus include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, two awards of the Distinguished Service Medal, two awards of the Defense Superior Service Medal, four awards of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the State Department Superior Honor Award, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal, and the Gold Award of the Iraqi Order of the Date Palm. He is a Master Parachutist and is Air Assault and Ranger qualified. He has also earned the Combat Action Badge and French, British, and German Jump Wings. In 2005 he was recognized by the U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s 25 Best Leaders.

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

Since General Petraeus will be in the news this week, it is important for all of us to know who he is. Below is his letter to his troops. It is long, but well worth the read.

General Petraeus ~ Letter to the Troops

HEADQUARTERS
MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
BAGHDAD, IRAQ
APO AE 09342-1400

7 September 2007

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Civilians of Multi-National Force-Iraq

We are now over two-and-a-half months into the surge of offensive operations made possible by the surge of forces, and I want to share with you my view of how I think we’re doing. This letter is a bit longer than previous ones, since I feel you deserve a detailed description of what I believe we have- and have not- accomplished, as Ambassador Crocker and I finalize the assessment we will provide shortly to Congress.

Up front, my sense is that we have achieved tactical momentum and wrested the initiative from our enemies in a number of areas of Iraq. The result has been progress in the security arena, although it has, as you know, been uneven. Additionally, as you all appreciate very well, innumerable tasks remain and much hard work lies ahead. We are, in short, a long way from the goal line, but we do have the ball and we are driving down the field.

We face a situation that is exceedingly complex. Al Qaeda, associated insurgent groups and militia extremists, some supported by Iran, continue to carry out attacks on us, our Iraqi partners, and the Iraqi civilians we seek to secure. We have to contend with the relentless pace of operations, the crushing heat, and the emotions that we all experience during long deployments and tough combat. And we operate against a backdrop of limited Iraqi governmental capacity, institutions trying to rebuild, and various forms of corruption. All of this takes place in a climate of distrust and fear that stems from the sectarian violence that did so much damage to the fabric of Iraqi society in 2006 and into 2007, not to mention the decades of repression under Saddam’s brutal regime. Tragically, sectarian violence continues to cause death and displacement, to your hard work and sacrifice together with our Iraqi counterparts.

In spite of these challenges, our operations- particularly the offensive operations we have conducted since mid-June- have helped produce progress in many areas on the ground. In fact, the number of attacks across the country has declined in 8 of the past 11 weeks, reaching during the last week in August a level not seen since June 2006. This trend is not just a result of greater numbers of Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces; it also reflects your determination and courage, and skill in conducting counterinsurgency operations. By taking the fight to the enemy, you have killed or captured dozens of leaders and thousands of members of Al Qaeda Iraq and extremist militia elements, you have taken many of Al Qaeda’s former sanctuaries away from them, and you have dismantled a number of their car bomb and improvised explosive device networks. By living among the population with our Iraqi partners, you have been holding the areas you have cleared. By helping Iraqis reestablish basic services and local governance, you have helped exploit the security gains, And by partnering closely with Iraqi Security Forces, you have been strengthening Iraqi elements that will one day have sole responsibility for protecting their population. Indeed, while Iraqi forces clearly remain a work in progress, Iraqi soldiers and police are very much in the fight, and they continue to sustain losses that are two to three times our losses.

We are also building momentum in an emerging area of considerable importance- local reconciliation. Local Iraqi leaders are coming forward, opposing extremists, and establishing provisional units of neighborhood security volunteers. With growing Government of Iraq support, these volunteers are being integrated into legitimate security institutions to help improve local security. While this concept is playing out differently in various areas across Iraq, it is grounded in a desire shared by increasing numbers of Iraqis- to oppose extremist elements and their ideologies. This is very significant because, as many of you know first- hand, extremists cannot survive without the support of the population. The popular rejection of Al Qaeda and its ideology has, for example, helped transform Anbar Province this year from one of the most dangerous areas of Iraq to one of the safest. The popular rejection of extremists has helped Coalition and Iraqi forces take away other areas from Al Qaeda as well, and we are seeing a spread of this sentiment in an ever-increasing number of Sunni areas. Now, in fact, we are also seeing a desire to reject extremists emerge in many Shi’a areas.

The progress has not, to be sure, been uniform across Baghdad or across Iraq. Accomplishments in some areas- for example, in Ramadi and in Anbar Province- has been greater than any of us might have predicted six months ago. The achievements in some other areas- for example, in some particularly challenging Baghdad neighborhoods and in reducing overall civilian casualties, especially those caused by periodic, barbaric Al Qaeda bombings- have not been as dramatic. However, the overall trajectory has been encouraging, especially when compared to the situation at the height of the sectarian violence in late 2006 and early 2007.

Many of us had hoped this summer would be a time of tangible political progress at the national level as well. One of the justifications for the surge, after all, was that it would help create the space for Iraqi leaders to tackle the tough questions and agree on key pieces of “national reconciliation” legislation. It has not worked out as we had hoped. All participants, Iraqi and coalition alike, are dissatisfied by the halting progress on major legislative initiatives such as the oil framework, revenue sharing, and de-ba’athification reform.At the same time, however, our appreciation of what this legislation represents for Iraqi leaders has grown. These laws are truly fundamental in nature and will help determine how Iraqis will share power and resources in the new Iraq. While much work remains to be done before these critical issues are resolved, the seriousness with which Iraqi leaders came together at their summit in late August has given hope that they are up to the task before them, even if it is clearly taking more time than we initially expected.

In the coming months, our coalition’s countries and all Iraqis will continue to depend on each of you and on our Iraqi counterparts to keep the pressure on the exptremists, to help improve security and strengthen the rule of law for all Iraqis, to work with the Government of Iraq to integrate local volunteers into local security and national institutions, to assist with the restoration and improvement of basic services, and to continue the development of conditions that foster reconciliation. For our part, Ambassador Crocker and I will continue to do everything in our power to help the Prime Minister and the Government of Iraq achieve the meaningful results that will ensure that your sacrifices and those of your comrades help produce sustainable security for Iraq over the long term. a stable and secure Iraq that denies extremists a safe haven and has a government that is representative of and responsive to all Iraq’s citizens and Iraq’s neighbors alike, bringing calm to a region full of challenges and employing Iraq’s human capital and natural resource blessings for the benfit of all.

As I noted at the outset of this letter, over the next few days, Ambassador Crocker and I will share with the U.S. Congress and the American people our assessment of the situation in Iraq. I will also describe the recommendations I have provided to my chain of command. I will go before Congress conscious of the strain on our forces, the sacrifices that you and your families are making, the gains we have made in Iraq, the challenges that remain, and the importance of building on what we and our Iraqi counterparts have fought so hard to achieve.

Thanks once again for what each of you continues to do. Our Nations have asked much of you and your families. It remains the greatest of honors to serve with you.

Sincerely,
(Signature of David H. Petraeus)
David H. Petraeus
General, United States Army
Commanding

President Bush in Al Asad, Iraq

As you know, today is Labor Day back home -- (hooah) -- so I thought I'd come by to thank you for all your hard work. (Hooah.) Every day -- every day -- you show bravery under incredibly difficult circumstances. Every day you're doing work on the sands of Anbar that is making it safer in the streets of America. And every day the United States of America is grateful for what you're doing. I want you to tell your families the Commander-in-Chief stopped by to say hello, and he said, I'm incredibly proud to be the Commander-in-Chief of such a great group of men and women. (Applause.)

And so I thank you for your sacrifice. I thank you for volunteering in the face of danger. I thank you for your courage and your bravery. Every day you are successful here in Iraq draws nearer to the day when America can begin calling you and your fellow servicemen and women home.

But I want to tell you this about the decision -- about my decision about troop levels. Those decisions will be based on a calm assessment by our military commanders on the conditions on the ground -- not a nervous reaction by Washington politicians to poll results in the media. (Hooah.) In other words, when we begin to draw down troops from Iraq, it will be from a position of strength and success, not from a position of fear and failure. To do otherwise would embolden our enemies and make it more likely that they would attack us at home. If we let our enemies back us out of Iraq, we will more likely face them in America. If we don't want to hear their footsteps back home, we have to keep them on their heels over here. And that's exactly what you're doing, and America is safer for it.

In Anbar you're doing this hard work every day. We've all come to say thank you. We've come to tell you the American people are standing with you. They're grateful for your sacrifice. As Commander-in-Chief, I'm proud to be in your presence on this Labor Day. I ask for God's blessings on you and your family, and may God continue to bless America. Thank you. (Applause.)

Photos by CPL Zachary Dyer, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs

Excerpts and Quotes from President Bush's speech to the troops - Al Asad, September 3, 2007

Video may be seen at the White House web site.

Comment Moderation is Now On

Due to a rash of anonymous and nasty comments, increased spam and now a comment in Spanish to celebrate bin Laden, COMMENT MODERATION IS ON.

Bin Laden Speaks...

Bin Laden has released a tape for the first time in three years. It has been judged to be authentic. Yet, I was unable to find much of an analysis of the speech, and a few days later it isn't even registering on the news readers.

To know what he said, I had to search out a transcript of the speech. It is not easy to read. But, it is important to see what he says. It is long and rambling and flowery, but the contempt is clear.

I find it curious with the irrational uproar about "finding bin Laden" that there is so little interest in what he has to say.

As usual, there is much condemnation of America - plenty for all of us. He begins with a glory for September Eleventh.

"...despite America being the greatest economic power and possessing the most powerful and up-to-date military arsenal as well; and despite it spending on this war and its army more than the entire world spends on its armies; and despite it being the major state influencing the policies of the world, as if it has a monopoly on the unjust right of veto; despite all of this, 19 young men were able - by the grace of Allah, the Most High - to change the direction of its compass. And in fact, the subject of the Mujahideen has become an inseparable part of the speech of your leader, and the effects and signs of that are not hidden."

He rambles about Christians and Jews living peacefully in Muslim lands, and points out the holocaust took place by our hands. Then inflates, beyond reason, the numbers of victims.

"People of America: the world is following you news in regards to your invasion of Iraq, for people have recently come to know that, after several years of the tragedies of this war, the vast majority of you want it stopped. Thus, you elected the Democratic Party for this purpose, but the Democrats haven't made a move worth mentioning. On the contrary, they continue to agree to the spending of tens of billions to continue the killing and war there, which has led to the vast majority of you being afflicted with disappointment."

There is a fascinating passage dealing with American history. It is bizarre. Facts don't seem to matter and timelines are reconstructed, and Rumsfeld is given credit for having powers throughout the 20th century. Kennedy was killed by corporations for wanting to stop the Vietnam War (despite the fact that he, indeed, escalated the war). He loves the leftist Noam Chomsky. He believes that Chomsky has the answer for all of us.

"And I tell you; after the failure of your representatives in the Democratic Party to implement your desire to stop the war, you can till carry ant-war placards and spread out in the streets of major cities, then go back to your homes, but that will be of no use and will lead to the prolonging of the war."

"However, there are two solutions for stopping it. The first is from our side, and it is to continue to escalate the killing and fighting against you. This is our duty, and our brothers are carrying it out, and I ask Allah to grant them resolve and victory. And the second solution is from your side. It ha now become clear to you and the entire world the impotence of the democratic system and how it plays with the interests of the peoples and their blood by sacrificing soldiers and populations to achieve the interests of the major corporations.

"And, with that, it has become clear to all that they are the real tyrannical terrorists."

Then, he launches into a tirade about global warming. He attacks Bush Blair, Sarkosy, Brown, Rumsfeld, Powell, Cheney and Armitage. He continues on the vicious master of capitalism and how we should rise up against it. He points out that there is no income tax in Islam (revives it to 2.5% alms). He uses Michael Schurer to confirm that America is loosing the war. Then, he speaks about the fall of the Soviet Union and the coming fall of America.

Bin Laden says that our troops are merely crying and committing suicide, since the only other options are for them to have 'mines devour them' or 'rulings passed against them.'

"To conclude, I invite you to embrace Islam, for the greatest mistake on can make in this world and one which is uncorrectable is to die while no surrendering to Allah, the Most High, in all aspects of one's life."

He speaks about Jesus, Prophet of Allah Jesus, and his mother. He tells us that the 'just and intelligent' among us will arrive at the truth of the Quran and Allah.

While it is easy to dismiss, it is important to remember that the hatred and disrespect for America is quite real, and these people are not going to go away.

To read the entire transcript: http://abcnews.go.com/images/Politics/Bin%20Laden%20Transcript.pdf

Patriot Walker - Walking Across America to Honor the Fallen

Damion Maynard left the from the steps of the Nevada Capitol building in Carson City on December 17, 2006. Damion is walking across America. He carries a flag, a piece of rope, a sleeping bag and a log book.

Damion is walking because "...I don't see enough support for the men and women who have given their lives to keep our country free. I wanted to show my gratitude, to show them that someone cares about what they lived and died for. So I chose a mile per fallen Soldier because they deserve that much, their families deserve that much."

Damion arrived at Fort Campbell on August 1. He had walked 1,372 miles, and he's not stopping until he walks a mile for every Soldier killed in action.

"I want others to realize our military means everything, they don't just keep our country free, they keep others free, too," he said with tears streaming down his face. "These men and women provide care to Iraq and they show what it is to be American."

Damion usually walks along the wide shoulders of the Interstates. He says he has lots of stories to share about his encounters with people and a lot of military personnel. I hope he writes a book!

Luciano Pavarotti - Ave Maria - Schubert

Thank you for the beautiful music!

Luciano Pavarotti, Farewell

Famed Opera singer Luciano Pavarotti has lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Pavarotti brought a depth and dimension to Opera that elevated it and broadened its appeal. He appeared on the Opera stage and in concerts around the world, toured as part of the Three Tenors, did performances with Barry White, U2 and Bono, and other popular musicians. In addition to his amazing voice, he had a endearing persona and charisma.

I first heard Pavarotti when he was building his career. His singing was like listening to the sound of the angels. And, when he sang, you were sure that it was just for you. Over the years, I took every opportunity to see him perform. He delighted my soul.

Tonight, Luciano, I pray that you are singing with the Angels....

Thank you for the joy you brought into my life and the life of so many others.

You will be missed.

UPDATE:
Last night in the wee hours I heard about the death of Luciano Pavarotti and did this post. As I have visited my friends' blogs and seen their tributes and seen the tributes on TV, I am so glad to know how many people were blessed with the joy of this man's voice.

I first saw Luciano early in his career - when people said, "Luciano who?". I was fortunate to be doing some work at a college when he was there to perform and it caused our paths to cross. I was taken with the charisma and the presence of the man - drawn towards him. So, I attended the concert. You may read many pieces today that will tell how Luciano sent them off towards a love of Opera... a Salon writer called it "The Gateway Drug to Opera." I was raised on Opera and Classical Music. But, Luciano brought to it a joy I had never seen before.

The magic of Luciano Pavarotti extended beyond his talent. He loved what he it and brought that joy to every note. He gifted it to us if we were willing to reach out and take it.

If you are one who has never heard him sing - go to You Tube and listen - you will be glad you did.

Oregon Brothers Reunite in Iraq

Staff Sgt. Eric Breeden of Salem, Oregon (left), a weapons squad leader for Company A, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division and Cpl. Charlie Breeden of Portland, Oregon, a medic for the 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, share a laugh during Charlie's promotion ceremony to sergeant at Camp Taji, Iraq Sept. 1. The brothers were reunited at the base camp north of Baghdad at the promotion ceremony after not seeing each other for more than six years.

(U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp, 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs)

By Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp
1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

CAMP TAJI, Iraq - Two deployed brothers -- Staff Sgt. Eric Breeden, a weapons squad leader from Company A, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division and Sgt. Charlie Breeden, a medic for the 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st "Ironhorse" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, have two very busy military careers that have taken them all over the world.

But thanks to various deployments and overseas assignments, the siblings have been unable to see each other face to face for more than six years. That is---until now.

Ironically enough, they said, it would take a deployment to Iraq and Charlie's promotion ceremony from corporal to sergeant here Sept. 1 to bring them back together.

"It's kind of hard that it has to be during a time of war, but this is really great and it's good just to have his ugly mug down here," said Charlie, of Portland, Oregon, with a laugh.

"You know, it's not happening under the best of circumstances, but we're happy to be here together," Eric, who claims Salem, Oregon as home, chimed in. "It wasn't too hard being apart though, over the years we stayed in touch with phone calls and emails."

It was a reunion that Charlie said he wasn't sure would actually take place. Charlie knew his brother was in Iraq and knew what Eric's unit was, but was unable to find him because Eric's working email address had recently changed.

But Charlie was driven to find his brother.

"Like the big brother that he is, he kept pushing me to get promoted, so it was really important for him to be here, and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity for us to see each other," said Charlie. "I had to find him."

Charlie and his wife, Colleen, sent emails to the 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. which contacted the 4th SBCT, 2nd ID Public Affairs Office on Taji to help arrange the reunion. The 4th SBCT PAO located Eric, communicating with his chain of command and scheduled a flight for him.

Eric who is based out of Camp Warhorse, which is not far from Camp Taji, had just gotten off a long patrol when he received a special message just a few days prior to his brother's promotion ceremony.

"I was asleep and there was a knock on my door," Eric said. "My first sergeant told me you're going down to Taji to promote your brother. Although I was really tired, it felt really good to get the news."

"I knew he was supposed to be getting promoted sometime, but I didn't know exactly when," he added.

Landing on Camp Taji the night prior to Charlie's promotion, Eric met Charlie at the camp's passenger terminal. The two hugged and then, Charlie had a surprise for his brother.

"My roommate was at one of our outposts, so I let Eric stay in my trailer," said Charlie. "We haven't shared a room in nearly 20 years."

"I thought I was going to be staying in a tent," said Eric. "So this was much better than where I thought I would be staying."

Charlie said they were both in for a long night.

"We may not get much sleep," said Charlie laughing and reminiscing about all the times as children when they kept each other up at night hitting each other with tennis balls or throwing toys at each other.

"You better not try anything funny," said Eric feigning a warning.

During Charlie's promotion ceremony, Eric emplaced Charlie's new rank on his uniform.

"It's about time," said Eric, who is four years older than Charlie, with a grin.

"He was always the one asking me promotion board questions online, coaching me," said the 34-year-old Charlie, explaining that his brother was always like his protector and guardian in a way. "He would yell at me if I was short on promotion points, so I had to earn more to eventually get promoted."

Both of the brothers who are married and have children took the time together as an opportunity to catch up on news about their families.

"He has his bunch and I have mine," said Charlie, who has two sons. "He hasn't seen my boys much, so it's a chance for us to reconnect and give updates on the families."

"It's a good time to see how we're doing and how things are going at home," Eric injected, adding that he has three sons of his own.

Although they said they were ecstatic about seeing each other, their families back in the states were also excited about the reunion.

"My wife is really stoked about this," said Charlie.

"If our families couldn't be here for this, they're at least happy for us that we could be here and share in this moment together," Eric said.

The brothers said their family has the same wish that many families have for their loved ones who are deployed to Iraq.

"Our family supports us while we're here and they support the troops in Iraq, but they would much rather have us and all the other Soldiers come back home," said Eric.

The families back home are already busy making plans for when the brothers do get back.

"I talked to my wife and grandma and they'll be hooking me up with a big family reunion when I get home," said Charlie, who returns to Fort Hood sometime in early 2008.

"Don't worry, I'll rope you into one, too," he said to Eric, who returns in mid-summer 2008. "I know how much you like big crowds."

Although, their reunion on Taji was short the two brothers said they wouldn't have traded the time they spent together for anything in the world.

"It was awesome," said Eric. "I'm glad that 4-2 let me come down here, it makes me feel good to know that they would go to all the trouble to do this for me. It was also a great honor to come down here and see how the guys in Charlie's unit and the 1st Cavalry Division are working." "It was a pleasure to have him down here, at least for a day, and we took the little time we had here and made the best out of it," Charlie added.

Next year, the brothers and their families will have many more opportunities to see each other as Charlie will be taking an assignment to Fort Lewis, Washington where Eric is currently stationed.

Wednesday Hero ~ Sgt Willard T Partridge

Sgt. Willard T. Partridge
35 years old from Ferriday, Louisiana
170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade
August 20, 2005


Sgt. Partridge was killed by an IED that exploded near his vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq.

These are the memories that his friends and family have of him.

"I remember Partridge from basic training and AIT. He was a very quiet guy who had a good sense of humor. I remember asking him why he joined, and he told me it was so he could take care of his family and give them a better life. I would have deployed with him any day, he was one of the good guys I graduated with. He will not be forgotten. God Bless."

"Todd was one of the best men I have ever met and I will always have great memories and admiration for him! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!"

"I will never forget you and those awful eighteen weeks at Fort Leonard Wood. You are in every sense of the term, 'A HERO'"

"Todd was such a quite, solid person. He never demanded the attention of those around him. I remember him always just smiling while everyone else at our LARGE FAMILY get togethers made noise. I could get a hug from him, but I had to ask for it. He never assumed anything. I loved making him hug me.

Todd was a solid, faithful husband, father and man in every respect. He did what had to be done in all areas of his life. He died doing what he knew to be his job in this life. Not that he wanted to die but he wanted to serve whatever the cost might be. He knew that freedom is not free and wanted to pay his part for that freedom for himself, his wife and girls.

I have nothing but love and respect for Todd's memory and will always proudly and thankfully count him among my nephews that adore. His memory will always be honored. I thank God that He brought Todd into our family. He left his mark on it just as he did everywhere he went."

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives

so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday.

For that, I am proud to call them Hero.

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. To find out more about Wednesday Hero, you can go here.

SGT Joshua Morley - SPC Tracy Willis ~ Farewell and Walk with God

82nd Airborne

Sniper and Scout

killed in Samarra, Iraq

SGT Joshua L Morley

SPC Tracy C Willis

The Department of Defense announced the death of SGT Joshua L Morley, 22, of Hendersonville, North Carolina and SPC Tracy Willis, 21, of Marshall, Texas. They died August 26 in Samarra, Iraq, of wounds suffered when the enemy attacked their unit during combat operations. They were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Over 30 masked insurgents attacked an outpost in Samarra with hand grenades and small arms, triggering a firefight. At least 14 insurgents were captured and more were killed.

The two have been awarded Bronze Star Medals and Purple Heart Medals.

SGT JOSHUA L MORLEY

SGT Morley, 22, a native of North Carolina, and an Army sniper and team leader, was described by his commander, Capt. Carlos Morales, ""It was truly both an honor and a privilege to have served with Sgt. Joshua Morley. He was a fearless paratrooper who epitomized the highest forms of bravery, dedication to duty, and selfless service on a daily basis. Sgt. Morley was a dedicated NCO (noncommissioned officer) that was totally committed to his duties as a Sniper Team Leader and always represented the ideals which make our nation great. During the last 12 months, he risked his life while participating in hundreds of combat operations with his sniper team against insurgent forces within the city of Samarra."

"Josh was a fine young man that wanted to serve his country so that the rest of us could have our freedom," his family said.

SGT Morley Joined the Army in January 2004. He was born in Hendersonville, the son of retired Army Master Sgt. Joseph Morley of Carthage and Waynette Morley of Laurinburg. Before his enlistment into the Army, he traveled much of Asia and the United States because of his father's career. He always knew that he wanted to serve his country and his family as an Army soldier, and he used his short time in service to serve with distinction.

SGT Morley is survived by his daughter, Alexis Ryanne, whom he never met; his wife, Kendra Dawn Morley; his parents,; a sister, Kara Catrina Brown and husband, Chris, and niece, Melody Louise Brown; maternal grandparents, Jimmy and Reba Jacobs; and paternal grandfather, Frank Morley.

SPC TRACY C WILLIS

SPC Willis, 21, an Army Scout from San Antonio, Texas, was described by his commander, Capt. Carlos Morales as "a fearless and confident warrior who epitomized the highest forms of courage, heroism and selfless service on a daily basis."

SPC. Tracy C. Willis, USA, age 21 passed away August 26, 2007 proudly serving his country in Iraq. Tracy was a 2004 graduate of O'Connor High School where he enjoyed playing football and ran track. He then went on to East Texas Baptist University in Marshall where he was also able to play football. Tracy would then join the United States Army serving his basic training at Fort Benning, GA. After basic training he was based at Fort Bragg, NC when he was sent with a unit to Iraq. SPC. Tracy fought the good fight for the sake of his country, and we salute him. He is survived by his parents Wilma & Darryl Willis, siblings Hope & Crystal Willis, Darryl Willis, Jr. & his wife Rita, Anjelica & Aubree Willis, and his niece Amari Willis. Tracy is also survived by his grandparents Cruz M. Camacho, Mary Johnson & Curtis Wilson, three aunts, one unlce and numerous cousins and friends. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 6, 2007 at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home from 6-9:00 P.M. A funeral service will be held 10:30 A.M. Friday, September 7, 2007 at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home with Rev. Randall I. Brown, Sr. officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military honors.


I learned of these fine young Americans from a soldier who serves with them. Their courage and strength is an inspiration. We mourn with their families, friends and with those who serve with them. Farewell Young Warriors and Walk with God.

U. S. Coast Guard ~ Thank you for all you do!

Petty Officer 3rd Class David Johnson and Petty Officer 3rd Class William J. Burke await for other team members to depart after completing a boarding aboard a tanker ship in the North Arabian Gulf. Burke a machinery technician is part of Law Enforcement Detachment 106, which is deployed in the NAG to help train Iraqi Navy and Marine personnel in boarding procedures and tactics.

U.S. Coast Guard photo by Public Affairs Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Henise.

Coast Guard Cutter in the Arabian Gulf

The United States Coast Guard protects our waterways and coastal regions seven days a week and twenty-four hours a day. On Labor Day, it seems appropriate to remember them, as they will not be on holiday - they will be actively protecting us.

They are also in the Arabian Gulf protecting US interests and interests of our allies there.

These brave men and women are taking an active role in the Great War on Terror.

With gratitude for all you do at home and abroad!

One Year of Wednesday Heroes

Wednesday Hero Anniversary

Today marks the first anniversary of the Wednesday Heroes Blogroll.
Each week, a group of bloggers posts a tribute to one of America's Heroes.
I am honored to be part of this group.

Enjoy the video and slideshow put together by Kathi.

Freedom Is NOT Free.

Wednesday Hero Tribute

Anonymous was here.....

Yesterday, we went off on a day trip - really had a great time and saw some amazing things!! I had planned to share our travels with you, until this came up.

When I got home, I found that our gutless friend ANONYMOUS had pooped all over my blog, commenting on several old posts. While attempting to show me that I was wrong and stupid, it revealed itself to be shallow, thoughtless, inconsistent in thought, rather ignorant at even correctly relating the standard talking points and totally unaware of the belief system it says it ascribes to.

1. It's contention is that the Democrat party is Pro-Victory. Obviously written by someone who has NO idea who these people are: Harry Reid, Al Gore, John Kerry, John Murtha, John Edwards, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton... need I go on? Additionally, the Democrat party - national and local branches, are organizing and anti-war counter rally to the Move America Forward Pro-Victory tour which starts this week. Yep, that sounds Pro-Victory.

2. Did you know that 'Bush' (FYI, it is President Bush) has been creating Jihadists? - I guess he is using his underground bunker to do this. No one creates a Jihadist - it is a belief system based on a perversion of Islam.

3. It wanted me to know that I 'despise democrats'. This was news to me. I obviously respect them more that it does as I capitalize the 'D' when I write the name - if I ever do, which is quite rare. I do not care enough about them to despise them. I don't respect many individuals who belong to the party. I don't respect the platform of nanny state realities. I don't respect most politicians at all. But, despise - that takes far more emotion that I am willing to give to them.

4. One of my favorites - my posts 'stir hatred and contempt'. Would those posts be the tributes to the fallen or the good news about our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan?

5. Then, it attacked my friend Sgt Vaughn and his editorial. It totally missed the point of the post and since it took exactly 1 minute to read it, I wonder how that happened? Then, it started typing incoherently and comes up with some bizarre conclusions.

6. But, it was humorous as well.... "Please can we all remember that Democrats are also loyal Americans." Since I never said they weren't, the paranoia takes over and truly stupid things get written. I think that a great many Americans are far too selfish and self-absorbed to be loyal to much of anything - their family, their marriage, their children, their jobs, let alone their country. But, I have not cast the term to anyone on this blog.

7. The saga ends with, "Shouldn't we be focusing aggression (anger and hatred if it makes you feel better) against our enemies?" Yes, we should. Maybe you could talk to our 'friends' in government about trying to do that. And, for the record, the only 'anger and hatred' that has been expressed is yours.

ANONYMOUS - you are an idiot... a coward... without substance to your angry typings, and not terribly capable of reading comprehension. Most of all, you are not welcome here. If you want to comment SIGN YOUR NAME - if you are not proud enough to sign it, then maybe it isn't worth saying.

Helicopter Crash Claims 14 Soldiers in Iraq

When a Black Hawk helicopter crashed in Iraq last week, we were all stunned with the loss of 14 Soldiers in this accident. These are their faces. God Bless them all. May they all walk peacefully with God. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends.

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Soldiers lost from the 4th Squadron, 6th US Air Cavalry Regiment, Fort Lewis, Washington, were the crew of the helicopter.

Captain Corry P Tyler, 29, of Georgia

CPT Correy Tyler graduated from Camden High School at the top of his class and then went on to the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was on his third deployment to Iraq, is survived by his wife, Kathy, and three small children in the Tacoma area, and his mother. When his father died last year, he was given the opportunity to opt out of combat service, but he did not choose that option. Tyler hoped to go to medical school and become an Army physician. He was to have heard soon if he had been accepted.

Chief Warrant Officer Paul J Flynn, 28, of Whitsett, North Carolina

CWO Paul Flynn was a native of Gibsonville, N.C. He had been in the Army 10 years and was on his first tour in Iraq. He was helping to pilot the helicopter when it went down. "He taught me how to laugh as a teacher, how to have a good sense of humor," Tim Riggs told The Times-News of Burlington. "(His death) hit me real hard."

Sergeant Matthew L Tallman, 30, of Groveland, California

SGT Matthew Tallman was a seven-year veteran of the military finally poised for the promotion he'd sought after seeing a need for leaders to guide young people just entering the service. "He loved what he did, and died doing what he wanted," his wife, Nicole Tallman, told The Modesto Bee. "He was enjoying the fact that he was in a leadership role."

Specialist Rickey L Bell, 21, of Caruthersville, Missouri

SPC Rickey Bell was from a tiny town in Missouri. "He was just awesome in everything. He loved everybody and everybody loved him," said friend, Farrah Boyd. "He was just a young, full of energy, vivacious fella who loved life and lived everyday loving life," said Caruthersville Mayor, Diane Sayre. "He loved it, he itched every time he came home to go back. He wouldn't be here a weekend til he was ready to go back. He loved the military," said Boyd.

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Soldiers lost from the 2nd battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3td Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Captain Derek A Dobogai, 26, of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

CPT Derek Dobogai was one of the top students in his high school class when he graduated in 1999 from of Winnebago Lutheran Academy. The Rev. Rick Zahn, who is on the academy faculty, remembered Dobogai as a track and cross country athlete, as well as a student who was recognized for his good grades. "It was Derek's dream to serve America, and his life ended during this service." He had been selected to serve in the Army's elite Special Forces.

Capt. Dobogai was a great man. No matter the situation, he always made an effort to find a solution. At no time did I ever hear him say something negative about a fellow soldier. He was just easy to talk to, whatever subject, be it working out (his favorite) or just some random off-the-wall topic. There are so many things to say about a man like Capt. "D." He was smart, funny, energetic but most of all he was a friend to all. You will truly be missed.

Staff Sergeant Jason L Paton, 25, of Poway, California

SSG Jason Patonwas a 2000 graduate of Poway High School. His family said after his scheduled homecoming, he had planned to resume his military career as a training officer with the Army Rangers. He served three separate tours: one in Afghanistan and two in Iraq. His family said he had an incredible zeal for life. He loved the outdoors, including camping, surfing, and off-roading. And his bravery extended well beyond his three tours of duty with the Army. His stepfather recalled how he proposed to his fiancée last March. She was a softball player at UCSD. "Jason proposed to her over the PA system," said his stepfather, Jim Valenzuela. Paton last spoke to his mother by phone on Monday. He talked about his excitement about coming home to see everyone and to get married in November.

Staff Sgt. Paton was a proven combat leader with great compassion for his men. I spoke to him almost daily, and every time we spoke, he lifted me up with motivation. He was both tactically and technically proficient at his job, and took the time to teach soldiers what he knew.

Sergeant Garrett I McLead, 23, of Rockport, Texas

SGR Garrett McLead was on his second tour in the Middle East. He was a 2002 graduate of Rockport-Fulton High School who enjoyed surfing and played varsity tennis and soccer in high school.

Sgt. McLead was a hard-working NCO. He was always looking for ways to excel at his job. He never let his soldiers down. He always led by example by taking the hard right instead of the easy wrong.

Corporal Jeremy P Bouffard, 21, of Middlefield, Massachusetts

CPL Jeremy Bouffard was married and had a son. He was applying for warrant officer school and helicopter pilot training, his family said. "He chose to serve out of a sense of honor and commitment to the ideals of our nation. His job was difficult, but he was content with himself, his family and his life," read a statement issued Aug. 23 by the Bouffard family. "He was clear-headed and positive about his future. We celebrate his life even as we mourn his loss."

Cpl. Bouffard was a great young soldier with a lot of heart. Every time I saw him, he was smiling. His dedication to his men was evident every day.

Corporal Phillip J Brodnick, 25, of New Lenox, Illinois

CPL Phillip Brodnick graduated from Lincoln-Way East High School, where he competed on the wrestling team. Along the way, Brodnick took turns playing soccer, baseball and the drums. As Brodnick approached graduation, he told his mother that he wanted to enlist, like both of his grandfathers and great-uncles. After graduating in 2000, Brodnick went into the Army and was sent to Kosovo for two years, and got out in 2002. He reenlisted in 2005.

Cpl. Brodnick was a leader that other young junior noncommissioned officers could look up to. He always excelled at his job and never let his soldiers down.

Corporal Joshua S Harmon, 20, of Mentor, Ohio

CPL Joshua Harmon served as a Combat Medic attached to the Scouts Sniper Platoon and received the Army Medal of Commendation of Valor for performing extraordinary life-saving measures. Additionally, Joshua was awarded the Combat Medical Badge. He married Kristin Rathjen May 10, 2007.

Joshua said, "I just stay focused on my job as platoon medic to make sure my soldiers are taken care of night and day. Sometimes it is a tiring job, but I have found great pride and satisfaction in performing."

Cpl. Harmon was a young junior noncommissioned officer who was full of life and always willing to learn more about his job. He never let his seniors, peers or subordinates down when he was in charge of any mission. Cpl. Harmon will be missed by those who knew him, his fellow NCOs and soldiers.

Corporal Nathan C Hubbard, 21, of Clovis, California

Cpl. Hubbard was one of the most motivated soldiers I've had the honor of knowing. Where you found Nathan, you could always find his brother Jason. The two of them always pushed each other to only be that much better.

Specialist Michael A Hook, 25, of Altoona, Pennsylvania

SPC Hook had been in Iraq for almost a year on his first tour, said his father, Larry Hook. "He died doing what he wanted to do," Larry Hook told the Altoona Mirror in Thursday's editions. "But it's been pretty devastating." He said Hook's fiancee is pregnant.

Whenever I saw Spc. Hook he always was in a good mood with a smile on his face. His personality and presence was contagious to everyone around him. A great soldier and a great friend to his fellow soldiers, everyone could count on him to be there when needed without gripe. A true patriot, a great person.

SPC Jessy G Pollard, 22, of Springfield, Missouri

Jessy Pollard had wanted to be a soldier for a long time and after high school he joined the army and volunteered for Ranger school. Physically, he was such a big guy, that he served as a back-up for the commanding officer of his platoon. He shipped out late last year and surprised his family just weeks ago when he came home for a short leave. He was thinking about becoming a career soldier. His family said he believed in what he was doing.

Cpl. Pollard was exceptionally motivated to be the best at everything he set his mind to. I remember talking to him about Ranger School on numerous occasions. His dream was to be a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces. He was well on his way to Ranger School after becoming a member of the Scout Platoon.

Specialist Tyler R Seideman, 20, of Lincoln, Arkansas

SPC Tyler Seideman graduated from Lincoln High School and attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville before enlisting in the Army.

Spc. Seideman was highly motivated to accomplish any mission. He was looked up to by his peers and subordinates alike.

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To Read More Tributes about each of these men from their fellow soldiers:

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070829/NEWS01/708290430/1001/NEWS01