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April 28, 2005



Welcome home, 1/3 Marines

After months in Iraq, the Marines of 1/3 are coming home to Hawaii, via Okinawa. Here's a tribute from 1stSgt John Armstead, H&S Company:

As the Company First Sergeant, I want you to know how proud I am to have served with such fine Warriors. In my opinion they all are heroes for their actions in Fallujah, but the true HEROES are you all at home. We know you spent many sleepless nights wondering what was going on; you took on both duties as mother and father. You handled all the financial responsibilities for the home, and you had to endure all the unfortunate memorial services by yourselves. Your contribution is truly remarkable and inspiring. We could not have done what we did without you.

We went to a country with a determined enemy, who was willing to sacrifice his life just to kill one Marine or Sailor. What they didn't realize was the determination, the dedication and the Esprit de Corps a Marine and Sailor possess. On D-Day the enemy found out quickly that the Lava Dogs were an elite fighting force ready to conquer terrorism. Your loved ones made history by enabling a country the right and the freedom to vote.

For most in the company this was their first time in combat, and just like a new recruit standing on the yellow foot prints for the very first time at either MCRD San Diego or MCRD Parris Island, he looks young and unsure of what he is about to embark upon. For me, I noticed those same things with my Marines and Sailors like I did with my recruits. They looked so young and unsure of what they were about to conquer. Now, when we return I'm sure you will see a difference in how your Marine or Sailor carries himself. He has aged some, he has a certain confidence about himself, and he knows exactly what it takes to be a Warrior.

Posted by Deb at 03:21 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack



April 26, 2005



Call him JarheadGrandpa now

JarheadDad, proud father of a twice deployed United States Marine sends some wonderful news:

". . . I have become a granddad! Woo-Hoo! Little Hailey Jean was born last Saturday and weighed in at 6lbs 11ozs. What a beautiful baby if I do say so myself! HA! I really didn't know how I would feel about being a grandparent. Some folks say it makes you feel old. I don't know about them but I'm feeling younger every day! Holding that precious little girl does wonders for the mind, heart, and soul!"

Watt sent a disclaimer that he and the new Grandma hadn't slept in 36 hours, but they look great!
"Beau is our oldest and Hailey belongs to he and his wife, Amanda. I haven't decided whether I'll let them keep her or not yet! :-o"
Here's JarheadSister, now AKA Aunt Elizabeth.

Congratulations to the entire JarheadFamily!

Posted by Deb at 08:13 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack



April 25, 2005



News from Fallujah

As John Little points out, you won't read it on the same front pages that reported acts of insurgency. But it's a clue to what's happening on the same streets where U.S. Marines fought:

Children at the Palestine Primary School now play and study on school grounds cleared of rubble and broken glass and have access to a renovated restroom due to the work of local Iraqi contractors and the aid of a U.S. military civil affairs team.

The $28,000 project started in March. Repairs were made to the damaged walls, doors and classrooms and electrical wiring. The money also went toward new doors, exhaust fans, six water tanks, a water pump and toilets for a student bathroom.

Although the school remained open during the renovations, the headmaster and students held an opening ceremony last week.

"The kids did a presentation and recited their studies," said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Gregg Reinbold, civil affairs team sergeant, B Company, 445th Civil Affairs Battalion attached to the 5th Civil Affairs Group.

The project was slated to finish at the end of this month, but the contractor completed work early.

In addition to the renovations at the Palestine School, the following is a list of recently completed school projects:

The Aabid and Nahda Schools also were refurbished for $28,000 in early April. The repairs included installing new doors, water tanks and a water pump and repairing electrical wiring and removing of broken glass.

Repairs to the Mina Primary School for Girls and the Janeen Secondary School for Girls were completed in March 2005, for $24,000.


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Marines and self esteem

In December 2002, I watched with heart-swelling pride as my son was awarded the title of United States Marine after 12 weeks of boot camp. Just three months earlier, the young men who executed flawless precision as they passed the reviewing officer had been ordinary late-sleeping, back-talking, soda-drinking, fast-food junkies who lived for the moment with their stereos turned up and their cars accelerated to just over the legal limit. Now, they marched in unison, uniforms spotless, and each knowing beyond doubt that he was part of the finest fighting force in the world, and that the men in front, in back, and to each side would lay down their lives to protect him. And that he would do the same for them. That is the Corps. Try to find that ethos in the civilian world. Just try. So how did that transformation happen? Cassandra has this to say:
Interestingly, no one would accuse Marines of a lack of self-confidence. Yet from the moment a brand new recruit steps off the bus at Parris Island his sense of self is under full-scale assault. A good DI doesn't waste time building up a recruit's self-esteem. In fact, it's quite the opposite: everything that happens at boot camp convinces a recruit that there's nothing particularly special about him. He may come in there thinking he's pretty hot stuff, but they shave his head, take away his fancy sneakers and stylish jeans and issue him a funny-looking uniform that looks just like everyone else's. If he screws up, no one makes excuses for him. He gets yelled at as though he were a little kid. It can be humiliating at times. It's designed to be that way. But if he persists, if he keeps coming, if he hangs in there and he works with the team, he will eventually earn their respect and perhaps even the coveted approval of the drill instructor. And at the end of the line, there is The Crucible. Not some touchy-feely pajama party, where sensitive New Age metrosexuals sip Chardonnay and wallow in their insecurities as they affirm their dependence on each other, but an all-out, balls-to-the-wall ordeal where if he can hang in there, he just might earn the right to be called 'Marine'.
I can't count the number of times I've been at a business dinner or walking down the street or at an event where the CEO of a successful company approaches me after seeing my pin that proclaims that I am the mother of a Marine and quietly whispers, "Semper Fi". Former Marines who enter the civilian world put those same lessons learned in boot camp to good use. Cassandra continues:
And that's something no amount psychotherapy can deliver. Self-reliance. You can see it in the way they walk: I can usually spot a Marine (even a retired one) a mile away. The carry themselves differently. There's a self-awareness, a calm, not-quite-cockiness in their bearing. At my son's police graduation I picked out the gentleman next to him in the lineup, for no particular reason, as a Marine. There was that indefinable something in his eyes. It stays with them all their lives, what they learned in Marine training. The discovery that in many ways, life is like an obstacle course. Many of these young men and women come from less than ideal circumstances. But no matter where they came from, they came to the Marine Corps because they were looking for something. And in recruit training, through challenge and adversity, they find the answer to a question, not outside, but deep within themselves. They find hidden reserves of strength and character they never knew they possessed. And they also find the enormous power that comes from voluntarily disciplining yourself, from working as part of a team. From not making excuses, or whining, or complaining, but simply adapting and moving on when life doesn't turn out the way you hoped it would. Many of them find God for the first time. No, no one would describe Marines as lacking in self-esteem. But it wasn't given to them. They earned it themselves. And perhaps that is the essential difference: what they earned for themselves, they know can never be taken away by life, or by other people.
There's more and it's good. Read it, especially if you're a parent with a son or daughter entering boot camp. And know that when your son or daughter comes home on leave, that they will still love loud music, fast cars, and leave laundry on the bathroom floor. It's home, they're comfortable, and you'll be so happy to see them that you won't care. But every so often, you'll see a glimpse of that metamorphosis that took them from civilian teen to outstanding Marine. And you'll get that rush of pride all over again.

Posted by Deb at 04:31 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack





Back to Landstuhl

Diana Hartman, Marine wife currently stationed in Germany, is visiting Landstuhl later this week. She reports that the wives are well supplied with donations from back home, but they could use greetings for the wounded Marines. Here's her note:

heyas, a few wives of marine forces europe will be traveling to landstuhl this thursday to visit our wounded marines...

we will be taking a few supplies that are needed as well as a lot of baked goods for the inpatients, outpatients, and liaison team...the supplies we are taking come directly from those donations made by mmo members and others who so generously answered our call over the last christmas holiday...while candies and other foodstuffs were taken immediately after they arrived, hundreds, and in many cases, thousands of different items were sent that continue to keep our wounded outfitted with what they need...

if anyone would like to send email greetings to be taken to the wounded, my printer is full and ready to go...please send all greetings to msdusmcd@yahoo.com

pictures and graphics are fine; please send them as .jpgs and not to exceed 300x300 pixels...if you have any questions about sending graphics, please just ask me...

i will be making several copies of each greeting i receive so that each wounded marine gets several greetings instead of just one...
if you would prefer, upon request all identifying information will be removed before printing the greeting...at the same time, providing names and addresses of those who hope to keep up with the health and welfare of their greeting's recipient are encouraged...please understand that while your recipient might not reply, greetings are still a wonderful day brightener for them...

You have 3 days. Write a note, send a picture of yourself or your kids, make a Marine smile.


Posted by Deb at 03:56 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack



April 22, 2005



Honoring the fallen - Staff Sgt. David Ries

Amanda Ries kissed her husband, SSgt David Ries goodbye at the Portland Airport last August 31 as he returned to Iraq for his second deployment. He didn't have to go, but he volunteered to join his brother Marines from the 6th ESB. Just a few weeks later, he was killed in an IED blast as his convoy returned to base afte resupply ingforward units during the Battle of Fallujah. On Saturday April 23, SSgt Ries will be honored by his fellow H&S Company Marines at the Swan Island Reserve Center.

Posted by Deb at 11:16 AM | TrackBack



April 21, 2005



Getting it right

A few weeks ago, we ran a story about the Salem-Keizer school district decision to alter a photo of an active-duty infantry Marine in order to remove the weapon he carried. This generated a national response and the principal and superintendent received hundreds of e-mails and phone calls. They backed down.

In contrast, Aaron Cooke, a teacher at Lebanon Union High School, recently invited USMC recruiters into the school to speak to his Military History class. They brought their weapons into the classroom, escorted by Lebanon Police Officers, and provided an educational view of military life. Kudos to this teacher. This morning, LCpl Shane Conrad, recently returned from Iraq, also visited the school at the request of his cousin Barbie McGehee who is a LUHS junior. I'll post details about Shane's question & answer session with the students soon . . . but I couldn't resist posting this picture of my handsome son and beautiful niece tonight. If you're wondering why his right arm is wrapped in plastic . . . he got his first (and hopefully last) tattoo a few hours ago. Pictures soon.

LCpl Shane Conrad with cousin Barbie McGehee just before Shane spoke to Barbie's 1st period Military History class at Lebanon Union High School.

Posted by Deb at 08:59 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack





First Welcome for 1/7 Marines

Cassandra and John both posted an article today about a group of tireless troop supporters in Bangor Maine who let nothing - not rain, not snow, not dead of night stop them in their appointed task of being the first to say "Welcome Home Marine" to our returning troops. Here's the link also sent to MCM by Marine Mom Tammie Greene:

"Here they come. Everybody get ready," said Joyce Goodwin, 71, her voice full of excitement, undiminished by the hundreds of times she has shown up to embrace the returning troops.

As dozens more Marines came down the corridor, the applause grew louder and was accompanied by handshakes, hugs, and a stream of well wishes: "Welcome home." "Thank you for your service." "God bless you." "Thank you for everything."

Faces brightened. Grouchiness disappeared. Greeters and Marines alike began taking photographs. The Marines were directed down a corridor decorated with American flags and red, white and blue posters to cellphones for free calls to family members.

They found a table with cookies and candies. Plates of homemade fudge circulated.

"Welcome home, gunny," said Al Dall, 74, who served in the Marines during the Korean War, as he thrust his hand at a startled Gunnery Sgt. Edward Parsons, 31, of Shelby, N.C.

"This is incredible," Parsons said. "Now I know I'm really back in the world."


Posted by Deb at 08:00 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack





Thunder from 3/2 Marines on the Syrian border

CO for 3/2 Marines, LtCol Mundy sends an update from Al Qaim:

Friends and families, I'm sending this update because your Marines and Sailors have had a lot of activity here recently. First, let me assure you that from the recent activity, we've had very few injuries, and most of those we've had have been minor. I credit our success and minimal injury rate to the training before we left home, our training since we've been here, the supervision provided by the great small unit leaders I have, and your prayers. Please keep doing your part, while I keep the battalion task force doing ours!

I could not be prouder of all the Betio Bastards of this fine unit, and that includes everyone attached who is now, and forever will be, a Bastard along side their brothers in arms from 3/2. The news may be carrying a story about the attacks on Camp Gannon several days ago. I cannot give you all the details, but you should know that the terrorists threw everything they had at your 3/2 Marines and Sailors at Camp Gannon , including three of their most devestating weapons, the suicide vehicle IED. They damaged the exterior of the camp's defenses, but did not break through, and the Marines performed exceptionally well under attack; many of them heroically. The perimeter held, and many terrorists died trying to continue their attack on the camp. For several days, they have tried to test our Marines on posts, and met similar fates. I visited the men immediately after the main attack, and as always, morale is high. Camp Gannon remains secure and the men are continuing their mission today the same as they did prior to the attack. The city around them remains dangerous, but has calmed a bit now.

While the action around Camp Gannon has been the most spectacular so far, you should know that every man in the Task Force has been busy all around our area of operations. For the past week, I've had Weapons, Kilo, and H&S working hard in Camp Al Qaim and the surrounding areas, and our actions have kept the enemy off balance. Everyone is professional, dedicated to the tasks at hand, and performing at a level I knew they were capable of. I was in Al Asad with SgtMaj Mennig five days ago, and we had the opportunity to visit with Capt Hankard, Lt. Wingate, and many of the Lima Company Marines and Sailors. They are doing a fantastic job with their security missions in and around Al Asad, and I continue to hear their praises sung by the men they work for. All of your men from 3/2 have met my challenge to "quell the storms" thus far in western Iraq , and they are certainly "riding the thunder!"

As you can tell, everyone in the Task Force is involved in sharing the dangers here, and everyone is a vital member of the team. I can't accomplish my mission without the hard work of all your husbands, sons, fathers, and brothers. I am exceptionally proud of the job they are doing here, and you should be as well.

The mail continues to pour in, and I think we've solved any minor problems with Lima Company getting theirs directly. Thanks to all of you for your immense support. I would also like to thank the numerous churches and support groups who have “adopted� men in 3/2 for letters and care packages, and others who just send packages in support of the entire Task Force. The encouragement we get from knowing we have the support of our families, but also so many of the American people, is tremendous.

Keep checking the Marine Corps website, at www.usmc.mil , for more stories about 3/2. There should also be one coming out soon in the Chicago Tribune, because we recently had a reporter here from that paper. We currently have a Washington Post and USA Today reporter in the area, primarily covering the Gannon attack, so with luck you'll see a quote from your son, brother, father or husband in an article or their smiling face on TV soon.

In operations following the attack on Camp Gannon , we did suffer a terrible casualty, with one of our snipers, Cpl Eddie Ryan, being very seriously wounded. My prayers are with him and his family at this time, because his condition is very grave. All the members of 3/2 grieve our fallen comrade.

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

Ride the Thunder!


Posted by Deb at 07:34 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack



April 20, 2005



Heroes of 3/2 hold the fort

Camp Gannon in Husaybah, Iraq is arguably one of the most volatile spots in the sandbox. And last week, the insurgents in that area hit Camp Gannon with everything they had. A dump truck. A fire engine. A third vehicle, all packed with explosives. They hit the front gate of this isolated post almost simultaneously . . . and three determined India Company Marines kept them from breaching camp security. It's an amazing tale of bravery and courage under fire for Marines, each just 21 years old. Here's a link to the story of the Marines who battled the insurgents. The bravery of LCpl Butler, Pfc. Charles Young, and Cpl. Anthony Fink saved the lives of a number of other Marines inside Camp Gannon. Here's a snippet from the longer story:

The base commander at Camp Gannon, a former Iraqi customs and immigration post at the edge of one of its most dangerous cities, credits Butler with preventing massive deaths here.

"Butler -- that day, that Marine -- that's the critical error the insurgents made," Capt. Frank Diorio says. "They thought they could keep the Marines' heads down. But he gets back up."

Butler, 21 and an Altoona, Pa., native, fired through the windshield of the first suicide bomber as he rammed a white dump truck through a barrier of abandoned vehicles the Marines had improvised. Barreling toward the camp's wall, the truck veered off at the last moment under volleys of Butler's gunfire."I shot 20 or 30 rounds before he detonated," he says.

Knocked down by that blast, with bricks and sandbags collapsing on top of him, Butler struggled to his feet only to hear a large diesel engine roar amid the clatter of gunfire. It was a red fire engine, carrying a second suicide bomber and passenger. Butler says both were wearing black turbans and robes, often worn by religious martyrs.

Amid the chaos of that first bomb blast, supported by gunfire from an estimated 30 dismounted insurgents, the fire engine passed largely undetected on a small road that leads from town directly past the camp wall, according a Marine report.

"I couldn't see him at first because of the smoke. It was extremely thick from the first explosion," Butler says. When the fire engine cleared the smoke, it was much closer than the dump truck had been.

As the driver accelerated past the "Welcome to Iraq" sign inside the camp's perimeter, Butler says he fired 100 rounds into the vehicle. The Marines later discovered the vehicle was equipped with 3-inch, blast-proof glass and the passengers were wearing Kevlar vests under their robes.

Pfc. Charles Young, 21, also of Altoona, Pa., hit the fire engine with a grenade launcher, slowing its progress and giving Butler time to recover. Without breaching the camp wall, the driver detonated the fire engine, sending debris flying up to 400 yards and knocking Marines from their bunks several hundred yards away. Butler, less than 50 yards away, again was knocked down by the blast, which partially destroyed the tower in which he was perched. After he crawled for cover, a third suicide bomber detonated outside the camp. That blast caused no damage or injuries. Sporadic fighting continued for several hours.

Meanwhile, Cpl. Anthony Fink of Columbus, Ohio, 21, fired a grenade launcher that the Marine unit says killed 11 insurgents. The Marines' "React Squad" swiftly deployed against the remaining insurgents.

"We were able to get the momentum back," Diorio says. He also says that Husaybah townspeople later reported 21 insurgents dead and 15 wounded. No Marines were seriously hurt.

And here's the message sent to 3/2 India Company families by the company CO:

Hello to all those supporting and praying for our India Company family. They make a difference, I assure you today more than ever. You have all probably heard about the attack on Camp Gannon . Once again the good Lord looked upon us, and the Marines executed flawlessly, which were the reasons for the enemy paying dearly for their decisions. The Marines are fine. I am so unbelievably proud to be here with them. Motivation and dedication to each other, our families, and our mission couldn't be higher.

As a unit, as a company, we continue to grow each day, understanding and appreciating each individual effort to protect, serve, and strengthen the company as a whole. The Marines are at times tired yet tireless in their duties, enduring hardships yet hardened against weak mindedness, and exposed to tough conditions but have toughened in mind, body, and soul.

I'd thank all of you for your continued prayers, letters and packages of support from home. Please know how much of a positive impact they all have on us here.

I'd like to finish this months letter with a special acknowledgement to two people who have given so much, and at times, almost all they have had in time, concern, energy, and commitment to the Marines of India Company. In one month's time Gunnery Sergeant Brian Hogancamp and his wife Teresa will be leaving 3/2 for their next duty station. As our company's Key Volunteer coordinator, Teresa has worked tirelessly to care for and assist the wives and families, and the Marines themselves, in any way that we needed. She has been a blessing to us all and will be greatly missed. Gunny Hogancamp leaves after almost 4 years in the Battalion. Although he will be leaving, he leaves behind most of him with us. His sweat and blood are literally and figuratively in all things India . His devotion to duty and selflessness to his Marines is the example for us all to follow. All that we have accomplished now and in the future has a foundation built upon the Gunny Hogancamp's hard work. Thank you both. Our hope for you is to someday truly know the impact you have had on all of us. Fair winds, and following seas . . .

From Husaybah,
Captain Frank Diorio

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April 19, 2005



145 to go . . .

A currently deployed soldier is approaching a milestone of 150,000 visitors to his site, A Soldier's Life. Please visit his site and add to his count - worth the click!

Posted by Deb at 09:48 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack





Key Volunteers - a "force multiplier"

Major General Natonski, Commanding General for 1st Marine Division, recently recognized the Key Volunteers who keep the home front running smoothly while their spouses (and in some cases, their sons or daughters) are deployed. These are amazing men and women who are suddenly faced with the absence of half the family leadership, but who also find the time to reach out to other families. The Marine family is a close one. It's nice to see the Key Volunteers recognized.

The week of 17-23 April 2005 is designated National Volunteer Appreciation week. During this time, our nation expresses its gratitude to those remarkable individuals who unselfishly volunteer their time, talent, and energy for the benefit of our communities and country.

I want to extend my sincerest appreciation to the Key Volunteers, for all of the tremendous work and service you provide to our Marines, Sailors, and their families of the 1st Marine Division. I applaud your efforts to ensure the well being of our families during this very dynamic time. Much of the success we have enjoyed is a direct reflection of your limitless efforts. Your mission is vital and you carry it out with professionalism and compassion.

The Key Volunteer Network is a “force multiplier� that allows the Marines and Sailors of the 1st Marine Division to focus on accomplishing our mission. By volunteering your precious free time, you ensure that our families have the resources, support, and necessary care while our loved ones are deployed.

It is only fitting that the nation takes this time to show its appreciation for your contribution. Again, let me add my sincere thanks for your efforts and please know that your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. I ask for your continued faith, courage, and your support to our Marines, Sailors and their families. You have proven to be a valued asset to the 1st Marine Division. Thank you and God Bless.

Thanks to Carrie for passing along Major General Natonski's good wishes.

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April 17, 2005



Pope John Paul II remembered in Fallujah

Photo by LCpl Evan M. Eagan

Chaplain John Hannigan leads more than 40 Marines and Sailors in prayer at Camp Fallujah, Iraq, Friday during a memorial service held for Pope John Paul II.

Here are a few snippets from LCpl Evan Eagan's description:

Those who gathered shared in some of the pope's favorite prayers, songs and readings from the Holy Scripture. A slide show highlighting his life was scheduled, although due to an electrical problem, it was not played.

Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) John Hannigan, II MEF Headquarters Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) presided over the 45-minute service.

"The pope wasn't into ornate, flowery types of things," said Hannigan. "We wanted to do something simple in keeping with the pope, who was a simple, down-to-earth man. He stood for what God wanted him to stand for: truth, justice and peace."

For those attending the service it served as a way to pay their final respects to the pope who passed away April 2, at the age of 84.

"I didn't get a chance to see the funeral on television so I came here today," said LCpl Joe McGinty, information operations, Regimental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division. "He was the epitome of the perfect catholic and leader, and he helped a lot of people and countries," added the Augusta, Ga., native.

For LCpl Lawrence Hurtado, heavy equipment operator, II MHG, the pope was an inspiration. "He did a lot of good things that people could strive for," said Hurtado, a Pueblo, Colo., native. "He set a lot of goals and he accomplished them."

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April 16, 2005



Two Causes: to never forget our brothers and to tend to their families

LtCol Mark A. Smith, CO for 2/24 Marines reports that all Mad Ghosts are back on U.S. soil. I've heard from several very thankful parents this week and look forward to sharing their homecoming photos with you soon.

Greetings and well wishes. It is my profound pleasure to report to you today from sunny Southern California! Additionally, I can report to you that 100% of the Mayhem Battalion is back from Iraq. Now, while I know this is not news to any of you, I did not want to send an update until I could report 100%, and 13 of our Marines were designated as pallet riders and did not arrive back until Monday. These were the Marines who accompanied our unit gear back on Air Force Cargo Planes.

I know the magnificent and sharp families of 2/24 well enough to know that at this point you are saying, "well, if you had 100% of the Battalion back on Monday, it is now Wednesday, so what happen to the update on Tuesday?" The answer: yesterday was our Battalion Memorial Service and that dominated our attention, and rightfully so. I will come back to the Memorial in a few minutes, but right now, as is my practice, I would like to bring you up to speed on the current status of YOUR Mad Ghosts.

The last 10 days or so in Iraq were spent aboard Camp Striker, on the grounds of Baghdad International Airport. YOUR Marines during this time were essentially guests of the US Army, and we could not have asked for better hosts. The Marines were afforded, for the first time in the deployment, a virtual vacation. They had access to some phenomenal chow 4 times a day, much rest, as much physical training as they desired, and the opportunity to see every movie that has been captured on film for the last 20 years. I could not have been happier for them for this time that was allotted to them, and as is usually the case with the Mad Ghosts, they pressed on, took full advantage of the situation and maintained their sturdy professionalism the entire time.

Since returning to Camp Pendleton in successive waves, the Marines have been executing the tasks required to demobilize the Battalion. Things here have gone extremely well and both the work that had been done by the advance party as well as the outstanding support we have received from the 1st Marine Division have been nothing short of outstanding. So, I can report to you that your Battalion is healthy, happy and EAGER to return to you. Flight times have been published and I know final coordinating measures for the Homecoming celebrations are underway! The PWST staffs will be publishing all required information shortly, if they have not already done so. I know for each Homecoming there are some "concerns" over varying matters. Ladies, what I can honestly tell you is that every decision that is made is being made for the best benefit for the most people, and with "what is best for the Marine and his family" being the standard against which all decisions are based. That being said, I would ask for your understanding in the enormity of the tasks, logistically and administratively, that are part and parcel of events like homecomings, and to think about the million or so moving parts behind the scenes that must be executed to make these things happen. Throughout this entire process I would like to think that a nugget of wisdom or "line to live by" to put on my wall would be from some historically famous General or great Warrior, but in reality, the line of knowledge that has dominated my life lately actually comes from the famous comedian Bill Cosby: "I do not know the key to success. I just know the key to failure is to try to please everyone." No intention here of slighting anyone, but just hoping to assist in the management of expectations and hoping that all can understand how issues sometimes of simple mathematics, i.e., a finite amount of space of arena floor versus a large number of people who want to be on the floor. Such realities require decisions. These decisions will not please everyone, but are made with the best available information and with the aforementioned standard as the measurement device.

Now, for yesterday. At 1430 hours we commenced a Memorial Service in tribute of our fallen heroes. I can truly only describe it as a beautiful and heart touching event. There was much sadness in the auditorium, but there was more love. Love of our brothers who gave all. Love of our brothers who have left behind family and friends. Family and friends who are now OUR family and friends, and will be for life. There was a dedication of two causes: one - to never forget our brothers, and two - to tend to their families. For the first is the Warrior bond, and the second is our charge. We can not and we must not forget that our brothers have left behind broken hearts and shattered dreams. We honor them by tending to those hearts and helping to build new dreams. The fallen and our wounded MUST become integral parts of our lives now. We must care for them, we must assist them, we must ensure they are part of this magnificent family from now until every last one of us has breathed our very last collective breath. Anything less is unacceptable, and anything less would be less than the Mayhem standard. This Battalion and its families have never failed in combat, and I know as sure as our fallen were with us yesterday from their post in Heaven, this magnificent Battalion and its families will not fail in a lifetime of peaceful and tender service to our wounded and the families of our fallen!

Following the memorial service, we had some VIPs who made some presentations and received gifts from the Battalion. Chief among these was Peggy Kane, a 71 year old lady from Fountain Valley, CA, who has no connection with the War save one: SHE IS AN AMERICAN PATRIOT! She had been one of our biggest supporters and sent countless cards, care packages, letters and posters (very motivational ones such as autographed posters of the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders, a Mad Ghost favorite). She is representative of so many Americans who have shown support is more than verbal, it is action. It was a thrill to recognize her in front of the Battalion, and she, through her words and actions, demonstrated for the Marines the beginning of what they have not quite grasped yet: that their exploits are both known and deeply appreciated by many, many Americans who they know not. For that, I am eternally grateful to Peggy Kane, and all the citizens like her.

Oh yeah, another huge thing Peggy did, she brought one of the greatest examples of athletic gentleman this country has ever known: Rod Carew, Hall of Fame baseball player for the Minnesota Twins and California Angels. Mr. Carew is the quintissential example of a gentleman, a very private man, and one who honored YOUR Marines by attending our memorial service and then personally autographing baseballs and taking pictures with our Purple Heart recipients. If all athletes were like Rod Carew, there would be no resistance to them being called heroes!

Ladies, in closing, I should thank so many. The families and their support, the unknown Amercians who sent us so much, the Generals and Colonels and staffs who supported us and helped us win our fight, my XO, S-3 and entire staff who were tireless and relentless in their duties, my Company Commanders who led the fight against evil, the attachments from Trucks, Engineers, HET, CAG, EOD, Comm Company, K9s and their handlers, our Navy brothers who tended to our wounds and our spiritual needs, all who made an absolute all-star line-up. I could thank the Marines of 2/24 proper, the greatest Battalion. I could attempt to thank all these, but the reality is my inadequacy and my words would fall woefully short. All I can say to even try to express my gratitude is this: I have as my wife one of the most beautiful women on the planet, and two daughters that when I look at them I see two angels in training, and I am as excited as I can be to see them. But, with that said, and I know my wife and daughters will forgive me for this, these days passing right now are some of the saddest of my life. I know with certainty that never again will I be surrounded by such men accomplishing such feats. Never again will I experience both the realm and intensity of emotion that I have for the past year. Never again will I be so honored and humbled all at the same time. No, the only thing I know for sure is soon, and I suspect very soon, I will find myself beginning that Warrior's road to slowly fading away and longing and wondering in my mind's eye: "where has the Mayhem AO gone...and where, where are my Mad Ghosts?" For no man was ever as honored as I to have shared time and space with these unbelievable men, these unbelievable Mad Ghosts, these MARINES!

Wishing you the most joyous of homecomings and long, healthy, prosperous and God Blessed lives.

Posted by Deb at 06:50 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack



April 15, 2005



Soccer Equipment needed

In addition to our Marines deployed in the sandbox, there are also a sizable number of leathernecks deployed to Djibouti in the Horn of Africa region. During their off duty hours, they play on a base soccer team combining all of the branches of service. Some of the African teams they play against have very little soccer equipment. As a matter of fact, one player played barefoot. On behalf of these extraordinary African athletes, and those service members who call them friends, Major Larson, from the 6th ESB out of Portland, OR, is asking for contributions in the form of soccer equipment, such as soccer balls, soccer shoes, and shin guards. Major Larson will personally ensure the equipment makes it in the hands of these underprivileged but extremely talented athletes.

Please send donations to:
Maj D.J. Larson
Camp Lemonier S-3
Base Soccer Coach
Djibouti, Africa
APOAE 09363

Posted by Deb at 12:56 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack



April 14, 2005



2/6 Golf Company tribute

They're home, but their work in Iraq is worthy of praise. Here are some good words from Golf Company CO, Captain Wardman:

At this time, I’d like say a couple of words about YOUR Marines. They have done an incredibly difficult job with poise and tact. I will tell you this; there were a lot of ‘nay-sayers’ out there that did not think that ‘an ordinary company of grunts’ could perform this mission. I will agree with that, because your Marines and this company are not ordinary. They established themselves as a force to be reckoned with as soon as we set foot in country. People around here quickly understood that we were not ‘ordinary grunts’ and that we meant business. Your Marines controlled everything here: access control, policy enforcement, physical security, and crisis management, which included casualty treatment. Your Marines were always the first out the door, the first on scene and the first to establish order and security in the midst of chaos. In short, when everyone else ran away, your Marines were running in.

In an environment where the actions of a single Marine could affect international relations, your Marines performed flawlessly. The decision-making ability of every Marine, from PFC to Sgt, was tempered by good judgment and conviction. When Marines stood their ground on an issue, they were right every single time. For six months, whether it was dealing with an irate foreign ambassador or near misses with rockets and mortars, your Marines were flawless in their duties. Your Marines did those things everyday, without complaint and with complete diligence. They did things that impressed and astounded people. Not a day went by that I did not receive some sort of praise for the way a Marine stood his post, did not back down while being challenged by senior officers, and/or conducted themselves professionally even when their challenger did not.

Every single day, people in other branches of the United States Military told Marines how much safer they slept at night just knowing that Marines were out on the line. Your Marines did this. Immediately, local residents were frantic to know what they had done wrong to deserve Marines in their sector. In an area known to be a "hot spot", your Marines established themselves as hard but fair and completely professional.

We started to notice a trend in our area. It was always quiet when we went out on patrol. Other units weren’t always as lucky. I think that the populace knew the difference between Golf Company Marines and the Army units that also operated in that sector. There is no higher form of respect than that of your enemies. Your Marines earned their respect and held them in check. I am proud of them. All of them. They did a job that was not glamorous and, at times, flat out boring. They did this job with absolute professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty. I cannot say enough about them.

On a more somber note, the Company sustained a loss during this deployment. Corporal Joe Ayala had a stroke while he was here. He had a previously undiagnosed blood vessel deformity in his brain. The blood vessels ruptured and he was medevaced from Baghdad back to Bethesda. Initial reports were not promising and many doctors did not expect him to make it, but Joe proved them all wrong. He is currently amazing the doctors with his will and drive to get better. Despite the doctor’s prognosis that he would never walk again, he can now walk with a walker and has recently started walking with a cane. Doctors said that he would probably never talk again, but Joe can speak slowly and is getting better everyday. Our hearts and prayers go out for him and we want him back because he is a fine Heavy Machine Gunner! All words of comfort can be directed to his father, Joe Sr., at: joe_r_ayala@raytheon.com His father, a retired Marine, would be extremely grateful for any prayers or words of encouragement!

Welcome home and thanks for a job well done.

Posted by Deb at 11:11 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack



April 13, 2005



Marine Family Support Groups

We occasionally get requests for information about support groups in different areas of the country. If you are a member of a support group, know of one, or would like to start one, please drop me a line and we'll put a list of contacts together. E-mail deb@marinecorpsmoms.com - thanks!

Posted by Deb at 04:10 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack



April 11, 2005



Small Craft Company honors LCpl Parrello

Last January, a hero from 2nd MARDIV's Small Craft Company was laid to rest. LCpl Brian Parrello was killed in action on January 1st in the Al Anbar province. His brothers held a memorial service for him on the shores of Lake Habbaniyah. His funeral service at home was equally fitting to a hero's memory. An attending Marine sent his brothers in Iraq this description:

To the Marines of Small Craft Co,

Brian Parrello was laid to rest today at 10:30 EST in a very solemn and dignified ceremony in his home town.

The funeral mass took place at his church. It's a small church in West Milford on elevated ground with a cemetery on the hill behind it. I for one find it comforting that he'll be in his home town, near his church, where his family can visit him. Several hundred people were in attendance and the church couldn’t hold that many people. Many stood out in the rain or waited for the mass to end in an adjoining building.

The weather was to say the least, crappy. It was cold and wet and the ground was covered with snow and ice and mud on the hill where Brian's grave site was located. Only a Marine would appreciate the hump, uphill in the rain and the cold through snow and mud to bring Brian to his final resting place near the top of the hill. Most of the attendees walked more than a quarter mile in that nasty weather to make it to the graveside. They did so with no complaints.

The Marines of the I & I staff and the Marine Reserve Unit 2/25 at Picatinny Arsenal did a fantastic job from beginning to end. Major Paulus and his staff had everything covered down to the finest detail. Brian's family was escorted every step of the way that I could see. The graveside ceremony went off without a hitch and was conducted with precision and grace. The Parrellos were surrounded by friends and family as they laid Brian to rest.

The entire hill was silent as the Marine pallbearers carried his flag draped coffin to the grave. It was no easy task as the ground was slippery and uneven, but they covered the ground silently and without incident. They made it look easy. They placed his coffin over the grave and stood at attention on either side as the graveside ceremony took place.

The rifle detail stood in the distance, looking sharp and executed the 21 gun salute. While almost everyone else had umbrellas or stood under the tent, they stood out in the pouring rain leaning into the icy hill. Anyone who’s stood at parade rest for a prolonged period of time can appreciate how hard it can be, especially when you’re leaning into the hill and in the cold and rain. Their feet had to be numb after just a few minutes of standing there. But the Marines of the rifle detail stood there, unflinching. Some things never leave you and as a Grunt I swear I could hear the M-16 rusting as they stood there in that unrelenting rain. At the designated time they executed the salute with perfect precision.

The pallbearers folded the flag as a bugler played taps.

The graveside ceremony concluded with 16 pipers and drummers from two bands playing the Marines Hymn in a slow solemn tempo.

I never knew Brian, and I regret that. I find similarities in that we're both from north Jersey, we both joined the Corps right out of high school and we both fought for our Corps and Country. As I said to Brian's brother, while we're all saddened by his loss, we can all take solace in the fact that he died a hero, doing something he loved and believed in, and in the company of great men. Marines, and other servicemen and women have been making the supreme sacrifice since the birth of our nation so that we may live free. Brian has reminded us once again that freedom isn't free and that Brave men and women are the reason we are the greatest nation in the world. He's our inspiration and we're all better people because of him.

I offer all of you my sincere condolences for your loss, and my sincere admiration for carrying the torch.

Semper Fi Marines!

And his name lives on in Iraq. The name of the base camp is now known as FOB Parrello.

Posted by Deb at 09:15 PM | Comments (6) | TrackBack



April 10, 2005



Gunny Therapy

Why former Marines would make the best doctors:

There is where any dreams I have of being an ideal physician hit the wall. There are some patients which need what I call "Gunny therapy." Gunny therapy is where you start smacking someone and yelling at them until they STFU and start making some sense. Most people who have ever appeared on Jerry Springer need a good dose of Gunny therapy. When some "out of control teen" comes marching out on stage dressed like a Harry Hines Hooker, flicking people off, and calling her mom a bitch, she needs Gunny therapy. She needs someone to come along, smack her briskly about the ears, and berate her for her poor behavior until she finally figures out that the beatings will continue until morale improves.

This child doesn't need to talk about his feelings. He doesn't need peer counseling. He doesn't need "A self affirmating environment producing synergistic moods conducive to realizing his full personhood." He needs someone to stand tall and give him a good, swift kick in the ass.

Read the rest here.

Posted by Deb at 11:44 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack



April 09, 2005



"Audie Murphy would be proud"

Owen West, a third-generation infantry Marine who served in OIF with First Force Recon, sent along a link to a spot-on critique of how media coverage of military action is missing the mark. It appears in the 4/07/05 edition of National Review Online. Here's an excerpt:

In Iraq, the most famous soldiers to emerge are PFC Jessica Lynch and PFC Lynndie England, a victim and criminal, respectively. Their public images are the offspring of Vietnam. Celebrity and cynicism have trumped achievement.

Habits die hard, for the press as well as for the rest of us. The disproportionate coverage of seven guards at Abu Ghraib and one quick-acting Marine in a mosque trumped the extraordinary victory won by thousands of Marines and soldiers in Fallujah, now one of the safest cities in the Sunni Triangle. The obsessive spotlight damaged the image of the American soldier at home while failing to assuage our detractors abroad. America is proud of its collective conscience, but self-flagellation has a deteriorating effect.

A nation's selection of its heroes is a reflection of its values. Jihadists like Zarqawi are not idealistic agrarian reformers. We are not a nation of victims. The press ought to make a real effort to show the tough guys who fight for us.

Read the rest here. Then, visit the Westwrite website to see what Owen and his dad, Bing West (who served in both the Vietnam and first Gulf War), have been up to. Father's Day is coming up and their books would make great gifts for a Marine dad. Or Mom.

Posted by Deb at 12:55 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack





The real "die-in" isn't on a peaceful Ohio campus

Following a symbolic "die-in" by 20 clueless war protesters last Wednesday on the campus of Ohio University, Marc Fencil, a OU senior and Marine who is currently deployed in Iraq, sent this invitation via e-mail to those who participated:

It's a shame that I'm here in Iraq with the Marines right now and not back at Ohio University completing my senior year and joining in blissful ignorance with the enlightened, war-seasoned protesters who participated in the recent "die-in" at College Gate. It would appear that all the action is back home, but why don't we make sure? That's right, this is an open invitation for you to cut your hair, take a shower, get in shape and come on over! If Michael Moore can shave and lose enough weight to fit into a pair of camouflage utilities, then he can come too!

Make sure you all say your goodbyes to your loved ones though, because you won't be seeing them for at least the next nine months. You need to get here quick because I don't want you to miss a thing. You missed last month's discovery of a basement full of suicide vests from the former regime (I'm sure Saddam's henchmen just wore them because they were trendy though). You weren't here for the opening of a brand new school we built either. You might also notice women exercising their new freedom of walking to the market unaccompanied by their husbands.

There is a man here, we just call him al-Zarqawi, but we think he'd be delighted to sit down and give you some advice on how you can further disrespect the victims of Sept. 11 and the 1,600 of America's bravest who have laid down their lives for a safer world. Of course he'll still call you "infidel" but since you already agree that there is no real evil in the world, I see no reason for you to be afraid. Besides, didn't you say that radical Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance?

I'm warning you though -it's not going to be all fun and games over here. You might have bad dreams for the next several nights after you zip up the body bag over a friend's disfigured face. I know you think that nothing, even a world free of terror for one's children, is worth dying for, but bear with me here. We're going to live in conditions you've never dreamt about. You should get here soon though, because the temperatures are going to be over 130 degrees very soon and we will be carrying full combat loads (we're still going to work though). When it's all over, I promise you can go back to your coffee houses and preach about social justice and peace while you continue to live outside of reality.

If you decide to decline my offer, then at least you should sleep well tonight knowing that men wearing black facemasks and carrying AK-47s yelling "Allahu Akbar" over here are proud of you and are forever indebted to you for advancing their cause of terror. While you ponder this, I'll get back to the real "die-in" over here. I don't mind.

I'd be willing to chip in for a collection of 20 one-way tickets. No telling how long it would take this group of protestors to realize that their right to dissent was bought and paid for by warriors like Marc Fencil who are willing to go over there to fight so that men in black facemasks will not come here.

James Taranto at Opinion Journal notes that "The same day, Iraq's democratically elected National Assembly chose Jalal Talabani, a Kurd, as Iraq's new president. If the protesters had their way, Saddam Hussein, who murdered tens of thousands of Kurds, would still rule the country. This "die-in" has to be the worst-timed protest since Al Gore's "global warming" harangue, delivered in New York on the coldest day in decades."

Hat-tip to Chrenkoff, via Blackfive.

Posted by Deb at 12:21 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack



April 08, 2005



Anniversaries

"Every man's life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived, and how he died that distinguishes one man from another." -Ernest Hemingway

As families, we celebrate birthdays by looking back at the past year and forward to to the next one. From the time that a child is born, his or her life is filled with promise but some lives are shorter than others. For the families of fallen heroes, there is another anniversary each year, one that is both a source of terrible pain and terrific pride. They celebrate the all-too-short life of their hero while wondering what might have been if they had returned from the fight. And beyond everything, they want and need to know that the world will never forget the sacrifice made.

When Sgt. Allan Walker was killed last year on April 6 in the Al anbar province of Iraq, his best friend SSgt Scott McLaughlin, wrote a beautiful tribute that gave the rest of us a glimpse of the man and Marine Sgt Walker was. Two days ago, SSgt McLaughlin left a comment that it was the one year anniversary of Sgt. Allan Walker's death in Iraq. He will never forget and through his words, we will never forget Sgt. Walker either.

In the same accident that took Sgt. Walker, HM3 Fernando Mendez-Aceves fell while treating Sgt. Walker's wounds. His bravery was noted in a subsequent speech by LtGeneral Gregson and will never be forgotten by his family,the men he served with or those who read tributes to his bravery.

Cpl Nicholas J. Dieruf, 1st LAR, died one year ago today while serving in the al Anbar province of Iraq. Just before he redeployed, he married Emily and they had dreams of a long and happy life together. That was not to be. However, his wife and family have turned their grief into a positive force for helping other families. They've created the Corporal Nich Dieruf Memorial Fund which benefits military families throughout the world by providing assistance and support to the families who give much so that we can live in freedom. It's a wonderful effort and very worthy of your support.

Another family finding solace in helping others is that of LCpl Brad Shuder who was killed in combat last April 9 in Fallujah. They'll use donated funds to help 2/1 Marines with the wounds of war - both physical and emotional. And they're reaching out to other families. "I just hope the families have support - people around them when they need them," Brad's mother, Rosemary Shuder, said in a recent interview. "The grieving process is excruciating."

Mike and Molly Morel lost their son, Capt Brent Morel, last April 7. Molly described Brent's death as "the end of half my dreams for the future." Regardless, both parents are reaching out to other families of fallen Marines as a coping mechanism to deal with their own grief. And they need that same support just as much.

As these anniversaries approach, it's hard to know what to say. But it's essential to say it anyway. The knowledge that a beloved son, daughter, husband, wife, mother or father is remembered as the hero that they were is a tremendous comfort. And written memories help. Write down your recollections and send it along. If you didn't know them personally, express your appreciation for the service and sacrifice. Do it. Just do it. If it's hard for you, think about how much harder it is for the families who are thinking back to that knock on the door. And then do it anyway.

Posted by Deb at 12:58 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack



April 07, 2005



"I've had a good time in Iraq" . . . 2/24 Marines come home

Marine Corps families are gathering in Wisconsin to welcome home the Mad Ghosts of 2/24. Proud Marine Mom Linda Kelly is en route, camera in hand, to help us share their happiness. I didn't get the last update from LtCol Smith posted due to getting sidetracked with my own son's return home, but once again, the bards of 2/24 have an eloquent way with words. Warriors are writers and these guys prove it over and over again.

Here is Major David Durham's last post from the sandbox:

This is my last e-mail from Forward Operating Base Saint Michael - in Mahmudiyah Iraq.

It's been a long haul. Be patient with me - I want to tell you a few things - emotions are running high right now - so forgive me if I'm a little sappy. Over a million Americans have passed through Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001 (many are on their second or third trip - they get counted twice) - so I know we are only a small part of this effort - it's a characteristic of any military unit to feel like you are the center of the universe - we're not of course, but as we come home - a lot of reflection is going on.

There have been some very painful moments and difficult times for us to get through - I've written to you about those times. Things happened here that I would do anything to change - 12 lives lost that I wish I could bring back - of those, 4 Marines from Company G that followed me here - killed - 1 Marine who worked for me in my capacity on the staff - killed - I would give anything to bring them back - but I can't. They will never be forgotten.

The separation from my family has been incredibly difficult. They have probably had a more difficult time than I have - the not knowing.

All very hard - very dirty business.

Having acknowledged the difficulties and the sadness I want to tell you something. I'VE HAD A GOOD TIME IN IRAQ - Most of what we experienced I would not change or trade or give up. We came to accomplish a mission and we accomplished it. We have lived - together. We have laughed - together. At times we have worked 18-22 hour days - together. We have almost nightly been woken from our sleep by the sound of our cannons. We have watched from the roof tops as our illumination rounds lit up the night. We have sheltered together behind concrete and sandbags while mortars fell around us. We have suffered through extreme heat and bitter cold - together. We
have mourned - together. We have fought and triumphed - together. From the Lance Corporal on patrol to the Battalion Commander - from the clerk in Supply to the guard who kept the night watch - we have embodied the warrior spirit. We are not the victims of this war. We brought American muscle. We came to kill Saddam's thugs and Osama's terrorist. We came to protect the first spark of freedom that is already sweeping a flame across the Middle East. We brought hope to the oppressed. We brought the promise of freedom and backed it up with our lives. And we brought imprisonment or death to those who stood in the way. Every day that we were here we relentlessly brought torment, death, and hell to a wicked enemy. We did not get all of them - but we captured, killed, or displaced 2 to 3 or our enemy for every Marine in 2/24. We did things you can't do at home: built friendships in a combat zone, strategize, planned, fought, outsmarted our enemy, compromised our health, bet our future, and risked our lives. I tell you honestly - we had a good time doing it.

Mothers, wives, daughters - welcome your Marine home - baby him - mother him - but greet him as the victorious Warrior that he is. Be proud of what he accomplished. Be tolerant of his stories. We have put every Marine through a class as he comes out of the field - getting them to open up to each other - preparing him for what he will experience when he gets home. He's been given advice on how to make his homecoming an easier process. It wasn't too long ago in the history of our country that our soldiers and Marines had weeks on a ship to unwind, we only have a few days. We all have a lot of transitioning to do - softening maybe - adjusting back to a more
civilized existence. We will make every effort to do that - and get back to our normal lives - we're ready to move on. Be patient with us. Again - these Marines are not victims to be pitied but warriors who have fought a good fight.

Finally - I want to say thank you for everything you have done for me, my Marines, and my family. Packages, letters, e-mails, donations to our fallen warrior's families, everything - I have been overwhelmed with your steadfast kindness - I will go to my grave in awe of you and the American people. I believe the outpouring of support must come from a determination in the American consciousness not to repeat the treatment our Vietnam Veterans received. Your support has given us a firm foundation to stand on - to fight from. Your support for us has been essential in defeating our enemy. Your support has ensured we come home mentally healthy - knowing we have the full faith and confidence of the people who sent us. I came to
Iraq an American Exceptionalist - I leave here even more in love with my countrymen - and my home - more convinced that America is "the last best hope for mankind." I'll spend the rest of my life thanking you.

There's not a Marine in 2/24 who does not want to come home. We have a bit of a journey ahead of us - but expect us to be in California the first week of April. After the doctors and psychologist have poked and prodded us and certified we're not sick or crazy - we will fly home in the second week of April - probably.

I'm very anxious to come home - to see each of you - and to thank you in person.

To steal a line - and paraphrase a famous quote:

And then to Kuwait; and to America then: Where ne'er from Iraq arrived more happy men.....

We few, we happy few, we band of brothers.

Stay the Course - Semper Fidelis - see you in April.

And here is the final missive from LtCol Mark Smith:

I started these periodic updates on a whim. When I wrote the first update I didn't realize the gravity of the words. Before I started this final update from Iraq, I sat down and read a couple of the previous updates and realized that our journey here in Iraq is not only coming to an end but that we have been part of a remarkable point in history. Time has literally flown by and you feel like there is so much left to be done. But I leave Iraq with my head held high and very honored to be called a Marine and to have served with some of the finest men this earth has ever seen. To be part of an historical election, to fight an insurgency, to see people affected in such a moving way, to witness some of the most horrible sights one could ever imagine, to learn many great lessons, to be protected by God's Hand - these are just some of the amazing things that I have been fortunate to be a part of. Many lives have been changed because of our time in Iraq.

The insurgency in South Baghdad/North Babil is suppressed. It is suppressed because of the lives of 12 Marines who gave everything to see justice and liberty come to Iraq. Their blood was spilt for Iraqis they never met, for their brother Marines and for the safety and protection of all Americans. It is suppressed because the other 1,170 Marines of this battalion have shed their blood, sweat and tears for freedom to come to the citizens of Iraq. January 30, 2005 will be a day that I will never forget and a day that I will talk about until I leave this earth. To see thousands of Iraqis ignore the terrorists threats and walk miles to the polling stations all while under the threat of a crazed suicide bomber or while actual mortars were falling out of the sky was truly a sight that my words cannot come close to illustrating. Iraqi security forces are taking responsibility for their areas, the Iraqi people are taking responsibility for the civil government, they are starting to provide for the basic necessities and services, shops and market places continue to open, and ad hoc gas station entrepreneurs are popping up along the main roads - it is democracy at its finest.

In a couple of days the battalion will continue on to a staging base near Baghdad for an eventual flight to Kuwait. Once in Kuwait we will then wait for a day or two for our flight back to the USA! We'll be in CA for several days to turn in our gear, have a Battalion Memorial service to remember our fallen heroes then we'll be able to return to our families. What a glorious day that will be! We still have a dangerous road ahead and until we are out of the country we must remain ever vigilant. I sit here and write this last update as waves of helicopters lift my fellow Marines out of our forward operating base in Mahmudiyah, Iraq. This has been our 'home' for the past 7 months. We've definitely grown attached to this area and it will be hard to say goodbye to the good citizens of North Babil and the Iraqi soldiers who have stood next to us during this time and shed their blood as well. They have lost many and have born the brunt of the casualties.

I want to thank every one of you who has sent me an email of
encouragement. I want to especially thank those who have been faithful in prayer for both me and the magnificent Marines of this Battalion. Also, we were very appreciative of the wonderful boxes of goodies and letters. They definitely came at just the right times and we were never in want for anything! The comfort that I felt after I read a letter from someone back home was indescribable. I pray that I get the opportunity to shake the hand of everyone that this email goes out to and tell you personally how much I appreciate your support and prayers.

My email address will be good for only a couple more days. I will forward an updated address when I return to the states. Thank you for letting me share my opinions, stories and feelings throughout my time here. I trust you have enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them down.


Posted by Deb at 08:58 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack



April 06, 2005



Another request from the front - no more books!

Last month, we printed a request from Sgt Morgan asking for donations of books for his Marines. You came through and your generosity is overwhelming - Sgt Morgan is now spending his limited free time building bookshelves and cataloging donations. They have enough and do not need more - if you still have books or DVDs to send, consider Books for Soldiers. It's highly recommended. Here's Sgt Morgan's e-mail thanking you for your support:

I first want to thank every one of you, your friends, family, and fellow supports that have supported us here at the Prison. The library I have set up with your support is doing very well, and we have so many books, my free time goes to sorting them, building book shelves, and writing you wonderful people. Which is one of the reasons why I am emailing you all today. I try to pride myself in answering everyone of your emails and letters, but there is one that has slipped through the cracks. Before I had the chance to write down his Address someone cut it out of the box and burned it for security reasons. I am trying to reach a man by the name of Jim Bromely. He was a SSgt for 10 years in the 60's and 70's and was one of my very first donors. His letter is the only one sitting on my rack gaining dust because I don't have an address for him. If any of you know him I would appreciate his address so I can mail his letter.

Furthermore, I am so pleased to be a Marine, especially in these hard times. I have seen nothing but the Honor, Courage, and Commitment we so tightly hold on to from these Marines stationed here. I just want you all to know that the Marine Corps. is making me very proud and I hope they are doing the same for all of you. There isn't another organization in the world I would rather be apart of. I have been in the Marine Corps. for almost 6 years and this being my first combat tour has made me understand what all the hype is about the Marine Corps. When in reality it's not at all hype, it is the real thing. We play hard, work hard, train like we fight, and kick A$$ when were told. Semper Fi and God bless you all for your personal dedication to the corps.

Sgt Morgan
USMC

THE MARINES HAVE LANDED AND THE SITUATION IS WELL AT HAND!

Update: Jim Bromley and Sgt. Morgan are in touch.

Posted by Deb at 11:41 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack





A comment on comments

Because of some very persistent SPAMmers, we're going to use TypeKey registration for comments in the future. If you're registered with TypeKey, your comments will post without delay. Unregistered commenters will experience a delay until we can manually approve the comment. I apologize for the inconvenience but it will cut down considerably on the garbage posted to the site each day. Thanks for understanding.

Posted by Deb at 01:50 AM





My Child the Movie - a mother's view of war

A group of filmmakers is looking for mothers of Marines in California (San Diego, Modesto, San Jose, San Francisco), Texas, Maryland, and Oregon for a unbiased look at the emotions of sending your child into combat. If your son or daughter has been or is currently deployed, consider this offer:

Mothers. What an amazing species! It has been said that to have a child is to allow a piece of your heart live outside your body. And so, from the moment a child is born, protecting that child from harm becomes a mother's most sacred duty. As a child grows older, his mother teaches him respect, courage, honesty and kindness. She teaches him to be true to himself and to fight for what he believes in.

But one day, every mother's child will be grown. And some mothers, having taught their children the lessons of courage and honor so well, will learn that their child is going to war.

The primary intent of the exhibition of "MY CHILD" is to allow the mothers of the military to have a voice. To speak about their experiences, struggles and tribulations, in our attempt to provoke thought.

Whether you are for or against this war, our objective is to include all points of view. ALL MOTHERS' POINT OF VIEW!

All ladies that would like to participate in sharing their experiences please contact us as soon as possible.!!!

HUMAN REVOLUTION ENTERTAINMENT
Director: Angeliki Giannakopoulos
818 728-0720 or email to: humanrevolutionentertainment@yahoo.com
Website: www.mychildthemovie.com

Oregon moms should contact me at deb@marinecorpsmoms.com - we're working with the producers to get a group of at least 15 moms together. As soon as I have a date, I'll let you all know.

Posted by Deb at 12:59 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack





3/2 Marines ride the thunder

LtCol Mundy, 3/2 Commanding Officer sends an update from the Syrian border:

I hope this update finds all of you well, and having enjoyed a happy Easter. April is here, which means we're ticking off the months until we return home! Your Marines and Sailors are continuing to do a fantastic job in the Al Qaim region, including Al Asad and Camp Gannon .

The battalion task force has been conducting many operations over the past month. Kilo and Weapons companies succeeded in capturing several important enemy leaders in the area, and have continued to discover mines and IEDs that threaten our movement. The threat of enemy mortar fire continues, but we are getting quicker at firing back at him to destroy his weapons and crews. The work of H&S Company in supporting the task force in all camps, and running convoys back and forth to Camp Gannon is crucial to our success. The Security Platoon from H&S has also been as busy as any platoon in the battalion.

In Camp Gannon , India company has also pushed out into the city near their base and conducted operations that captured and killed enemy personnel that have been harassing them. The security and protection of Camp Gannon is very good, so even though they are fired at by the enemy, most times that is nothing but an inconvenience to the men.

Lima Company is doing a fantastic job around Al Asad, conducting security missions very similar to the rest of the battalion out west. They have done patrols, vehicle check points, and are certainly doing a critical mission. The Battalion Commander and Sergeant Major they are currently attached to have talked to me and SgtMaj Mennig, and they rave over the professionalism of your Marines and Sailors. Lt. Wingate's 3d Platoon, Lima , is continuing a fabulous job as the Regimental Combat Team-2 Quick Reaction Force, involved in quickly springing onto insurgents when they are detected in the area. They were mentioned specifically in an article on www.usmc.mil , the Marine Corps Website. Lima Marines and Sailors are getting their mail, but again I encourage you to use this LAAD Battalion (the unit they are currently attached to) address to make sure it goes straight to them.

Rank and Name
Lima Company 2d LAAD Det-A
Unit 78087
FPO AE 09502-8087

As you can tell, everyone in the Task Force is involved in sharing the dangers here, and everyone is a vital member of the team. I can't accomplish my mission without the hard work of all your husbands, sons, fathers, and brothers. I am exceptionally proud of the job they are doing here, and you should be as well.

We have continued to get large deliveries of mail, and we appreciate it very much. I think we've had great success across the board with keeping in touch via the Segovia internet and phones, but it is always special to receive the hand written cards and letters, and the boxes with treats from home are a great morale booster and make many days here seem like Christmas again! I would also like to thank the numerous churches and support groups who have “adopted� men in 3/2 for letters and care packages, and others who just send packages in support of the entire Task Force. The encouragement we get from knowing we have the support of our families, but also so many of the American people, is tremendous.

There continue to be stories written and posted about your men in 3/2. Most appear on the Marine Corps website, at www.usmc.mil . But, about ten days ago, we had a CNN crew that did several live interviews from Camp Gannon , and two stories about 3/2 Marines and Sailors in western Iraq . We're also getting a Chicago Tribune reporter coming to visit us soon, so keep watching the news to see information about your warriors in action.

Unfortunately, since the last time I wrote to you, we've also suffered a few casualties, and while everyone here understands the nature of combat means we will have them, that knowledge doesn't make it any easier when we lose comrades or see them hurt. We held a great memorial service on 22 March in honor of our first Marine KIA, LCpl Kevin Smith, Security Platoon, H&S Company. He is a hero, and we'll miss him.

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.


Posted by Deb at 12:48 AM | Comments (9)



April 05, 2005



More from 3/3 . . . "missions still to accomplish and a war to win"

Kilo Company Marines sends holiday greetings, thanks to correspondents Capt Mallicoat and 1stSgt Santiago:

Greetings once again and Happy Easter from Afghanistan. The weather has begun to ease with the onset of spring and we have begun getting outside the base more often despite the odd blizzard every few days. Our operational tempo has increased as the snow has retreated, but the run-off has produced another obstacle -- flooding in lower areas. Nonetheless, aerial assets have become more reliable and we have taken advantage of this increased support. In the last months, we have conducted or taken part in at least 1 battalion-level, 2 company-level and 9 platoon-level operations resulting in multiple caches discovered, medical care given to over 700 Afghans, and humanitarian assistance supplies given out to dozens of villages in 3 provinces throughout Afghanistan.

First, congratulations are in order for Corporal William and Mrs. Dove Mitchell in the birth of their daughter Lauren born on 19 March 25, 2005. Lauren measured a petite 19 inches and weighed 7 lbs, 2 oz. Both mother and daughter are doing well and are looking forward to Daddy's return. Congratulations to both happy parents on this newest little blessing.

The last two months have seen quite a few promotions to the next rank here in-country. Those Marines promoted in February were: Corporals David R. Myers, Michael J. Pruitt, Troy M. Arndt, and Jason O. Valencia; and Lance Corporal Michael A. Madalena. Those Marines promoted in March were: First Lieutenant Steven J. Boada; Corporal Ajuna A. Montano; and Lance Corporals Arden M. Wright, Chase A. Snyder, Stephen C. Richardson, Joshua P. Ott, Colin C. Nelson, Daniel L. Moss, Christopher L. Monsegue, James Meeks, Daniel J. Mariakis, Edward L. Holloway, Kristopher L. Giuranna, Emmanuel Diaz and Orlando Carrasquillo Jr. Congratulations to these Marines in their achievements in attaining the next rank.

Kilo Company also had 3 Marines reenlist in March. These Marines are: Sergeant Robert R. Campbell, Corporal Jon K. Burns and Corporal Michael J. Rowland. Sergeant Campbell will be changing assignment to Marine Forces Pacific on Camp Smith, Hawaii; both Corporals Burns and Rowland will be transferring to Weapons and Field Training Battalion aboard MCRD Parris Island. Congratulations, good luck and Godspeed to these Marines as they embark on another chapter of their careers.

Kilo also recently recognized a few Marines for receiving the Good Conduct Medal, which is awarded to Marines who serve 3 years without any incidents resulting in company non-judicial punishment or higher. These Marines are: Staff Sergeants Jose M. Giron (third award) and Robert A. Meyer (fourth award); Sergeant Thomas J. Hood (second award); and Lance Corporals Robert D Berve and Joseph E. Brinker (first awards).

Our family and friends have been very good to us throughout the deployment by sending much-needed supplies, from baby-wipes to bibles, from candy and pens for the Afghan children to cards and letters for the Marines themselves. In fact, our supporters have been so good to us that we no longer need any boxes to be sent to us for 2 reasons: 1) we will never use all the supplies we have and so intend to turn a lot over to our relieving unit, and 2) we will soon reach a point where we will be back home before boxes arrive.

These last months serving with your Marines and Sailors have made me proud to be called their commander and I feel a sadness in knowing I will soon give up that position. This deployment has changed a lot of us including myself, but we hold our freedoms more precious for it. For some of us, this will mark a time of transition as we become reacquainted with each other and, in some cases, prepare to move on to our next assignments. That light at the end of the tunnel is getting steadily brighter, but it is still a little ways away. Until we stand in that light, we in Kilo know that we have missions still to accomplish and a war to win. Until next time, take care and God bless each of you.


Posted by Deb at 10:41 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack



April 04, 2005



3/3 update from Afghanistan

Captain Sweeney updates us on his India Company Marines:

As India Company nears the halfway mark in our deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, we have taken the time to take a step back and evaluate our impact on the country of Afghanistan thus far. Since arriving here in November, there have been some noticeable changes in the security of the Konar province. Your Marines and Sailors have been conducting a wide range of operations--capturing known terrorists and anti-government forces, recovering many weapons caches, clearing the roads so international workers can continue to build the infrastructure, and providing support to the local populace in the form of medicine, clothes, tools, and food. I need not say that they have been extremely busy and have all been doing an outstanding job. Our months ahead will prove to be just as productive as we continue to press the attack into the spring and summer months. February has served as our coldest month thus far. Of course, a little snow is not going to stop your Marines from continuing their mission; however, it is quite a change from the warm tropical breezes of Hawaii. The weather has had an impact on some operations, but we continue to adapt to our environment. Not allowing rain to pace us, India Company has moved throughout our area of operations and recovered several caches. Along with the caches, 2d and 1st platoon detained several individuals with ties to terrorist groups. Those individuals will no longer hinder the progress this country has made. We saw snow for the first time in Asadabad on the 17th of February. With conditions worsening in the later days of the month, 3d platoon set off for an eight-day field operation that followed a very wet four-day operation the week prior.

Also this month, the company conducted a relief-in-place between our 2d and 1st platoons at Camp Blessing. 2d platoon now calls Camp Eggers, Asadabad home after a very successful three months at Camp Blessing. 2d platoon's outstanding performance in the Nangalam area has caused the most dramatic changes in the province. In an area well known for supporting anti-government activity, the coalition has now gained the support of the local populace. 1st platoon will continue right where 2d left off, and I'm sure they will do great things too. If you have a Marine or Sailor in 1st platoon, don't be surprised if the frequency of your loved ones calls lessen and their e-mails stop altogether. Camp Blessing has very limited commercial communication capabilities. For those of you with 2d platoon Marines, they should now have the opportunity to get behind a computer on a regular basis and catch up with all that is going on at home. Although there are a few more amenities in Asadabad, the Marines of 2d platoon are sure to miss the smaller, quieter, and more remote spoils of Nangalam.

I must mention again the support we have been receiving from home is incredible! Just yesterday the company received over 200 bags of mail. A lot of it has been stuck in Bagram for the past couple of weeks because of the weather. Please KEEP UP THE SUPPORT! As the company commander, I cannot stress enough the impact on the Marines’ morale when they receive a package or letter from a loved one. Many of the packages have come from support groups and India company alumni from all over the country. To those of you that have taken the time out of your busy days, I cannot thank you enough. As the Marines say, you truly are Great Americans! I only hope the Marines of India Company continue to make you proud as we continue the mission here in Afghanistan.

From the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines of India Company 3/3, Aloha.


Posted by Deb at 04:31 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack



April 03, 2005



Post-deployment homecoming

The Marine is my son, LCpl Shane Conrad who arrived in Oregon yesterday afternoon for his post-deployment leave. The first thing he did was smell the air - it had been raining and "smelled like home". Next, we stopped at a shopping mall to buy a new snowboard and all the gear to go with it. He missed last season and is looking forward to hitting the slopes with his dad next week. And the bars at night - he is making up for 7 months of life in the wild, wild west of Iraq.

He was afraid his dog wouldn't remember him. When he walked into the kitchen and stood in front of her crate, all she could see was his feet. Suddenly, we heard a thumpthumpthump from her tail on the sides of the crate and when I opened the door, she launched herself straight into his arms. Good thing she only weighs 12 pounds.

We stopped by his grandparents home for a brief hug and hello, then he dropped me at home and was off with his friends to test out being 21 and of legal drinking age. There will be more of that - Jarhead Dad has warned me and I am learning to be the mom of an adult who has seen much, done more than most, and returned to be my hero for all time. So far, I've mostly kept my mouth shut except for frequent "Be careful" comments. I'm a mom, it's still my job.

Three weeks will go by all too fast. I'm savoring every moment.

Posted by Deb at 08:48 PM | Comments (12) | TrackBack



April 02, 2005



MCM celebrates!

One year ago, we started this website with the hope that we'd be able to reach out to other Marine Corps families. It's been quite a year. We've made a lot of new friends and accomplished some amazing things. Thanks to everyone who has put up with our growing pains . . . we realize that some pains were larger than others, but we're working on solutions. Through some generous donations, we were able to purchase the software we needed to upgrade the site and pay for another six months hosting fees. Soon, we'll have our bulletin board up and running. Watch for Operation Santa 2005 launching sometime this summer - we'd love to send Christmas to all Marines deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan this December. Keep us posted if you'd like to be involved. We've got a few more ideas kicking around and we invite other Marine families and friends to become involved. We'll keep you posted! Until then, feel free to use the Donations link at left to help support this site. We're not out to make a profit and any money donated above the costs of operating this site will be used to kickstart Operation Santa this year. Thanks so much for all your support.

Posted by Deb at 12:35 PM | Comments (9) | TrackBack





Comments are back!!

Phil at 4D Webhosting deserves a round of applause. We moved our account to 4D last month and Phil has provided service over and above that offered by the other services we contacted. I'm happy . . . and those of you who have e-mailed me repeatedly asking that comment functionality be restored will be happy too. Thanks, Phil!!

Posted by Deb at 11:44 AM | Comments (2)