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:: Comments left behind ::
The comments function for this site have been disabled. (Blame the spammers)
If you would like to contact Will, please send your comments to will@rooba.net
The Forum will remain open for everyone to use.
Thank you.
:: Comments left behind ::
Hello All,
Well, this will probably be the last installment for the web-page and I know that some of my more devout readers (see Family, Friends and those that enjoy the funny!) will be disappointed, but my 15 minutes are just about up.
I do want to thank everyone that read/contributed/laughed along with the troops and I as we struggled to maintain sanity in an insane world.
As I write this, soldiers and marines are fighting it out with various factions of the many Iraqi religious sects, some not too far from where I was previously stationed. To them, those fighting and dying for our country, I pray for your safety and victory. I can't say that I wish I was with you, but I also can't say that I enjoy sitting on my hands while you guys get the job done. God bless you and speed your path home.
To the Iraqi's in the fight and those thinking about joining the fight against the coalition forces I say this: You are idiots. No matter what the holy man told you, you cannot win against the Americans. Look to Somalia and see your future. In Mogadishu, the Americans lost 24 men and thousands of Somali's were killed in the process. The only reason that the United States pulled its forces out was because we had a weak President that had no stomach for killing. Today we have a Texan in the White House, and if you don't know what that means you might want to have a look at Afghanistan.
If you want us to leave all you have to do is STOP fighting. If you stop fighting we can hand over control of your country to YOU, the Iraqi's. Once you have control of your government, you Iraqi's can ask the United States to withdraw their troops (because there isn't any fighting, they won't be needed!) and the United States will have to WITHDRAW. At that point we won't care if you blow each other up and burn our flag because we won't be there.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, "Give us what we want and we'll go away." It's that simple. Follow the logic and you will see that it's true. Try NOT believing everything that the Holy Man says... he is still just a man and bound to make a mistake sooner or later.
Well that ticking is getting louder... if I deploy again I'll be sure to let you all know. Before I leave I want to mention some folks that made life a bit easier over there. You may not recognize their names, but they will and to a soldier that's about all that matters.
Matt S.. - You kept me sane.
Jeffrey - You made me crazy but kept the 1SG off our backs.
Ronnie - I am now addicted to coffee.
Wade - Sarcasm is an art and you are the Andy Warhol of it.
Mac - Thanks for listening
Welchkin - My food blister grew thanks to you and Beth's generosity.
Bob - Thanks for the one-liners, 'I don't give a FAT shit!' and 'What the fuck, OVER?'
Brunsy - You kept us entertained in more ways than one, and you passed up $750?
Hodge - Annoying us into drinking water and chasing after me with an IV worked... No Heat Cats!
Nellie & Tennis Shoe - For showing courage and valor with reckless abandon, and then getting screwed over.
'Yo Mama Loves You! - You are the comic relief, and I can't wait to pin your stripes on.
Dan P. - Crazy ideas and the guts to go through with 'em, I know the radar dish was your idea!
Vern - For building everything from nothing.
Dawn - Watching Ahmed sport wood... PRICELESS!
Carlos - I still like your video the best.
Greener - How's the nipple? The eardrum? What's next?
Holly - Thanks for covering my ass when we took that first AK… maybe you should have shot that guy?
Webbagail - Rot gut Whiskey and diet cokes helped take the edge off the bad days.
Misty - I am a better driver today because of you.
Paulie - For the hotdogs and the setup... I owe you.
The Mechanics - Thanks for getting the wrecker stuck, 4 times!
Major I got fired TWICE - the only officer to go on patrol with me.
These are just a few of the people that I lived with for the past year. To everyone that I didn't mention, I'm hung over and I'll get you in the book.
I love you all,
Will
PS - So many things have changed here at home, but the biggest one is me. I'm adjusting well, I think, and I can't wait to go back to work. No, seriously. I really want to go to a job without a flak vest and weapon!
PSS- Jake is doing great. Within 2 hours of meeting him he puked AND farted on me. That's my nephew!
:: Comments left behind ::
Will, Once again I would just like to say Thanks to all of you. Our country wouldn't be what it is today without fine folks like yourselves. Glad you are enjoying Home life once again.
We will definitely miss your posts. Take Care and God Bless Soldier. And again THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.
Kelley from Iowa
:: Kelley April 8, 2004 02:47 PMI'm serious about buying you a beer while in Omaha Apr. 17!
Thanks for your diligent effort! And for
keeping us in stitches while you were having a less than laughable time. Your messages will be missed.
Cat
Denver, CO
Will-
Wow! What a journey it's been. We all appreciate you and a job well done over in the land o' sand. Thanks so much for allowing us this chance to step into your "boots" every once in a while. It was real....and fun.....and REAL FUN !! =) Best of luck to you, your family & of course, little Jake. We are so glad you made it home safe.
Thanks, again.
Andrea Turner McClain
Dallas, Texas
Welcome home soldier...
I think that says it all.
:: LV April 8, 2004 02:51 PMI am so glad you are home, safe, sound and relatively sane. I will miss your weekly updates, you became a part of my life and I enjoyed getting to know you through your rants. Your one of kind and a true American. I can't wait till your book comes out and if you still have a web page somewhere let us know, so we can keep track of you. God Bless you and Jake. Welcome home soldier.
:: debby April 8, 2004 02:51 PMWelcome home, Will!
If you're back in Omaha, I still owe you a beer or two! Shoot me an e-mail sometime! :)
:: Firebrand April 8, 2004 02:59 PMWill:
Thank you and ALL the soldiers who have put their own lives on hold and on the line for us. Many people still have no idea what you soldiers gave up to keep us safe. I will keep praying that the rest left over there remain safe and come home soon.
As for your nephew puking on you, well now you are officially an "Uncle" At least the other end was only "air". I have three children and I can't tell you how many times they got me when it wasn't.
Glad you are home safe and sound and I cannot wait to see your book!!!
:: Theresa April 8, 2004 03:02 PMThank you... Will
so many of us knew no one personally that was / is over there - then we met you - and heard about it, and worried about it from you - an almost stranger, but you kept it real to us, told us what it was like, made us not forget all the wonderful men and women over there. you made us laugh, and worry, and smile and pray.
thank you for the gift.
Barb in AZ
:: barb K April 8, 2004 03:06 PMI have to say I was very disappointed when I seen that this was the last message. But I'm very glad you guys are home ( our guys got home this week!!) and very proud of you all for doing what had to be done. Maybe you could take up the log again, but this time with stuff happening at your job? I know you'd be good at it. Take care, and give us an update once in a while so we know how you all are doing.
Di
Welcome Home Soldier - You are what makes America the greatest place on this planet!!!
God Bless You and All of the Soldiers!!!
:: Tanna April 8, 2004 03:06 PMWill,
We are so glad you made it home safe and sound! We wish all the best to you, your soldiers, and your family! Keep us posted on the upcoming best seller!
:: Mary April 8, 2004 03:22 PMKeep on keeping it real soldier.
Thank you for bringing the war home to many of us who don't know anyone over there, making it real and less like a movie or better yet a play station game.
Enjoy being an Uncle and I will keep hoping someone over there gets wise to the fact that having an AK shoved up their ass sideways is not fun, so you won't have to go back and all the rest can come home.
And I hope you do write that book, and many more, you're wasted on the Army!
I'll see you at the party the 17th. I'll bring the scotch I promised. We'll keep praying for our troops, the president, and our country!!
Thanks to all of our troops - God Bless
I have been a loyal reader and am very glad you're home OK. Take care and have a wonderful life!
To my fellow readers here, I encourage you to read the other side of the fence, the blogs from ordinary Iraqis. If you haven't yet, my recommended blogs are:
http://riverbendblog.blogspot.com/
http://healingiraq.blogspot.com/
http://wildfirejo.blogspot.com/
http://dear_raed.blogspot.com/
Will,
I am so glad that you made it home safely.
I will miss your rants very much.
Jan
:: Jan April 8, 2004 03:32 PMTHANKS... for the memories.....
Take care and good luck in all you do!
:: Tess April 8, 2004 03:36 PMThis one brought me to tears. I feel as though I am losing a friend. I know that war time is not the best. I felt so close to something and someone who mattered in the grand skeam of things. I am proud to call my self an American and it is b/c of men like you that gave me that right. I am a Texan and do not take offense to what was said. I am also proud to be a Texan. I hope everything goes good for you. And I will be looking fo rthe book. You will be missed!!!!!!!!
Texas Girl Renae
Welcome home, Will! Like so many others, I will miss your postings and insights into Army life. My son came home from Iraq last week and we feel blessed that he came back to us with his big beautiful smile still intact. I'm sure your folks feel the same way. You and all the other soldiers are the cream of the crop--thank you for serving your country.
Sue
Will,
I don't know you from Adam and I don't remember how or when I linked over to your site but.....I've enjoyed your site so much. Thanks for serving and thanks for sharing.
God bless,
Nancy
Ahhh Will...
Hard to believe you can touch so many more lives than you imagined, hmmm? Though I'm extremely glad you are home from the Sandbox, I'm also saddened we won't be hearing from you here. This last post is most appreciated btw. As someone else mentioned, please let me know if you start a site so I can visit it. For ANY reason that site is put up!
Remember my email, 'fore if you're ever in Arizona, shoot me an email and you will be most welcome to meet my son and I. *smiles* Thank you for your service, and thanks to everyone doing service overseas.
Yes, you truly ARE a flesh and blood uncle NOW. *Laughs heartily* enjoy Jake!
WELCOME HOME, SOLDIER.
Judi Eckes
Tucson, Az
bambipurr@yahoo.com
http://myhomeismyheart.homestead.com/Welcome.html
It definitely sucks that this is the last of your pages, but having no more rants from Iraq mean you're home, in one piece. And that means alot. It would be great to know you started another site like this, so if something came up, or you did updates, by all means, let us know. Glad to have you home; good luck for the future.
:: leslie April 8, 2004 04:15 PMSo glad you are home, but you will be missed by many. :o( Enjoy the regular rat race!! Be sure to have Rooba notify all of us when the book is published. Take care and best wishes for the future.
:: Jamie K. April 8, 2004 05:00 PMHUZAAAAAAAAA!!!!!
Three cheers for Will. The world is a good place with you in it. :)
-Ryan
:: Ryan from Canada eh? April 8, 2004 05:52 PMWelcome home.Thank you Will and troops and thank you to all of you there.
:: marie April 8, 2004 07:42 PMHi Will,
It was with a mixture of happiness and sadness that I read your last post. Welcome home. I am so very happy for you. Thank you from one veteran to another for your sacrifices. Whenever I thought I had things to worry about, all I had to do was read your posts, and realized that I have it pretty damn good. I'm a little bit sad, because I'll miss your rants and humor. I can always go back into the archives, though. You touched many people in the last 13 months or so with your writing. There were times I laughed so hard, that I had to clean off my monitor. There were a few times I sobbed so hard, that I had to log out for awhile and go through half a box of kleenex to get myself together. I prayed so much. You are partially responsible for my faith increasing. You are a blessing, Will. Never lose sight of that. I (and many others, I would guess) am looking forward to seeing a book. It would be easy to find, cause it would be at the top of the bestseller list. In the meantime, hopefully you have some time to just relax and enjoy being back home and near your family and friends. Your mom is a wonderful person. Your stories about your tough little nephew Jake, are priceless. God bless you, Will, and God bless all of our troops. Farewell. May you have fair winds and following seas.
YN1 Dawn Adams
USNR
Menasha, WI
I will miss your blog.
Welcome home and all the best for your future!
:: Eppy April 8, 2004 08:57 PMThank you, Will! I will sooooo miss your rants. If you every make it down to FL, you have a night on the town in the virtual bank.
:: zoecy April 8, 2004 09:11 PMWelcome Home!!! I will mis your writing but not the wondering if you are safe!
:: Jessica April 8, 2004 09:13 PMWill,
I just wanted to Thank you for sharing your stories. Your rant made me smile and understand a bit about the situatuion. Your good sense of humor, I was able to keep looking up about my situation with my bf who he is on his deployment.
Wish you the best of the luck in your future.
Again, Thank you very much.
Naomi
Muchas gracias, Will, for everything.
How I'd love to be the editor who works on your book. What fun that would be!
Take care (c:
Will,
I've not often made comments, but always read. Yours has been just one of the stories from the sandbox, but I want to thank you for allowing us to share your journey.
I wish you all the very best and if there's a book later on, I'll be sure to be first in AU in line to buy it.
ECG, Melbourne, AU
:: A girl from AU April 9, 2004 01:07 AMWelcome home, The adjustment being home can be a tough one so just take it easy. Thanks for the up-dates...they were a part of my morning ritual, and I looked foward to reading them. My unit is set to deploy soon and if you have any tips, please e-mail me. Again, welcome home, and thanks.
:: MIKE April 9, 2004 05:49 AMwell, I am saddened by this last post. I caught up with you half way through your deployment and checked everyday for a new post. Your rants always put a smile on my face. Now that my cousin is over there, I will miss your posts even more. Glad that you are home safe with your family. Take it easy.....and thank you, for everything...
Semper Fi
Jennifer in MD
p.s. Happy Easter!!!
Will......thanks for what you've done and we're glad you're back in the real world safe and sound.
:: Ed April 9, 2004 06:56 AMYour log kept me wondering what you were going to talk about next. Glad your home and thank you for sharing this experience with the world.
Jackie - Chicago, IL
:: Jackie April 9, 2004 08:54 AMWell...another one grows up and moves on. *sniff* Damned kids anyhow....
Don't forget to keep in touch!!! I would say 'write' but I think you've just said you have given that up. ;-)
Thanks for the memories..I'll certainly miss your blog.
:: radtec April 9, 2004 11:44 AMi am so very sad to see that you are no longer sending your messages, but am very happy that you are home. i shall miss all of rants and stories. i wish they would never end but ..oh well. i hope you do write a book and PLEASE include a picture on the cover so i can put a face to the name. even though i am not american i am proud of you and your comrads. jake is a lucky little thing. ...thank you for writing and enjoy your life. your mama should be very proud of the job she has done. hope to hear your name again soon.
:: janet April 9, 2004 04:36 PMWill...your really home. Thank goodness and thank you for all you did to keep us free and safe. I am really going to miss you and your messages. Glad your nephew gave you the best welcome home though. hehehe
Now to get our other guys back home safely as well. If allowed or if you feel like it, please post now and again and let us know how you are adjusting and how Jake is doing please.
God Bless You and God Bless America!
:: Cathy April 9, 2004 05:09 PMI may have missed you but, just in case you get back into these rants of yours, I'm so glad you are back home but probably not nearly as glad as your family. It seemed you were gone forever! Take your time winding down - you deserve a break!! And I, too, will be interested in that book you say you're going to write. See you soon soldier. One of your many friends, Bert
:: Bert from Omaha April 9, 2004 11:48 PMWill,
It was my pleasure to meet you last night and buy those drinks for you. As an ex military guy myself I greatly appreciate your effort, and wish you well !
We are one of the so many who have followed your exploits from afar, without knowing you personally. Thank you for a wonderful, enlightening, funny narrative - thank you so much for being "willing" to put so much on the line for all of us - our family will never take that for granted. We will miss your reports, but welcome back and God Bless -
:: Team KC April 10, 2004 02:23 AMThanks for your service in harm's way! The bit about the weak president is uninformed but wonderful because it shows that you will certainly be voting this November. And having our votes counted honestly is one of the things that makes America so great.
:: Todd April 10, 2004 05:02 PMDearest Will...
At Last!
Blood, Sweat, Tears, Puke, Snot and a whole lotta gas! That's how you know it is love at first sight my darling.
"What a long strange trips its been."
It is difficult to adequately express my debt of gratitude to you all. Except to say that as your unit arrives home, others depart who require our support.
Just as we remained faithful to you. Now we must be steadfast and true to them as well.
Wishing you all the best on the newest chapter in your book.
XOXO Szaffie
:: SzaffireBlue April 10, 2004 08:29 PMThe best of luck in everything you do , i hope all your dreams come true in life
:: Susan Taylor April 10, 2004 09:34 PMPopping in to check your status and found the best news that I have heard all week!!! Glad to hear you are back stateside. Ya freakin hoo!!! But, blogs aren't just for war. Why stop now?
:: rkinla April 10, 2004 11:13 PMWelcome home, Will! Thank you so much for your sacrifices. Your posts have been wonderful. I'm taking your hint that there will be a book eventually.
Take care and enjoy your homecoming.
:: JAMIE April 11, 2004 05:05 PMWill,
My son left a couple of weeks ago and is now somewhere between Fallujah and Ramadi. I discovered your journal while searching for information and have enjoyed reading it so much. It gave me a good picture of what he'll be going through. I love the way you write and laughed out loud many times. Enjoy being home. Best of luck!
welcome home. thanks for making us laugh and reminding us what's really important.
Will,
Welcome Back and Thank You. Enjoy your life - you earned it!
MO
:: MO April 11, 2004 09:51 PMWill, I've been a lurker here, since I've found your blog linked on CNN at the start if the Iraq war when blogging was still a fancy thing. The example of guys like you and Stryker and Smash encouraged me to start blogging, even though I'm not American and I'm not even a soldier. I'll keep your page linked on my blog... I kept putting off notifying you, out of awe, but at least now you know. We'll miss you. A big welcome home, and thank you for all that you and your comrades are doing for civilization. God Bless America.
:: SoldierBlue April 12, 2004 04:26 AMWill,
Thank you for writing and sharing your experiences. It is wonderful that you are back home. I will miss checking in on your site. I look forward to seeing the book.
Will,
I'm sorry to see you go. I'll miss your wit and humour! Take care - Mels
Thanks for sharing the past year of your life. I haven't missed a post. You feel like a personal friend to all of us. I look forward to your book.
Good luck, Buddy, with the rest of your life.
Lot of love,
Cathy
:: Cathy April 12, 2004 09:49 AM
Will,
Thanks for sharing the ups and downs with all of us. I'll keep thinking of you as my other half goes off to the desert this fall. Glad you came back safe and sound.
Hi Will, thanks for all the times you have written to us, although we do not know each other, I want you to know that I will miss reading yoru emails from time to time, and if at all possible wish that you would continue to write to us and let us know how you are doing, we have all formed a special relationship via your emails, and have learned a great deal from you, thanks again, may God bless you and keep you safe, and all those soldiers, marines, airman, and military personel that are still in Iraq , and all the people that have gone there to in some way or another help them rebuild their counrty.
Paola
:: Paola April 12, 2004 12:58 PMTears came to my eyes when I saw that this is the end. Please say it isn't so.
Your humor and truth was refreshing. God bless you and your family.
Take care WILL!!!
DJ FROM RACINE WI
:: DJ April 12, 2004 01:06 PMWill,
Through the past year you have been such an inspiration (See Laugh/Cry/Moan/Groan) to your faithful readers. Thanks to you we were able to experience so much that regular soldiers had to deal with.
When my man left a few months ago, I knew so much of what he would face. (See - He never tells me anything besides - yeah it pretty much sucks). Because you chose to share your experiences with us (I'm still laughing about the Sgt. Maj. running after the jeep) I am handling this deployment much better than previous ones. You opened my eyes to how soldiers really feel (well I'm sure you left some parts out!) and how they make it through the tough times by relying on each other. God Bless our Soldiers and Country!
Thank you Will, now go enjoy life (and write "the book")
IRA in Jax, FL
:: IRA April 12, 2004 02:47 PMthanks for EVERYTHING and good luck to you!!
:: nicole April 12, 2004 04:46 PMWill, I too want to echo the sentiments expressed by so many others. I have truly enjoyed your blog and am saddened at its closure - BUT the fact that you are home, safe and sound is the best reason I know of to say good-bye to your blog.
If you're ever in Tulsa, it would be my pleasure to buy you a drink!
thank you and all the nameless others for everything ya'll have done to protect our country.
Godspeed in all your endeavours!
Will,
I'm so glad your home and doing well. but I'm sad because I feel like I just lost my best friend. I always loved reading your blogs but did not get a chance to respond as much as I would have liked to.I just want to say "THANK YOU" and God Bless America.
Sherri Miller-USA
Thanks Will. Welcome back.
:: Tony April 13, 2004 12:18 AMWill, as you can see from the messages; we will all miss your postings. Thank you for making me laugh, God bless and I will look forwards to the book!!
:: becky April 13, 2004 02:17 AMWELCOME BACK WILL,
Wow, I write this with such mixed emotions. I am thrilled you are back and alive BUT very sad that your updates are done.
You made me laugh, you made me cry and you made me laugh until I cried.
My husband is an active duty enlisted soldier. So, for the past 23 years I have been an active duty spouse. The past years have been full of tough assignments and deployments. My children and I have made numerous sacrifices over the years. But, I know our sacrifices are small compared to the men and women of our armed forces. Reading your postings finally gave me insight into what my husband has been feeling and going through all these years. Thank You from the bottom of my heart for all your words. GOD BLESS you and your family! WELCOME BACK! I WILL TRUELY MISS YOU!
:: Joan April 13, 2004 10:14 PMPS.....I will be the 1st in line when you come to my town for your book signing tour! :)
:: Joan April 13, 2004 10:16 PMWill,
It was sooo good to share a few drinks with you and your parents last night! To actually see you in person after all this time!! Your "stories" have been a inspiration to read!!! I have known you for a lot of years, where have you been hiding those writing skills!!! You MUST write that book!!!!!!!! I too agree with everyone else, you should continue to write your blogs on a regular basis. Why end such a good thing!!! I want to THANK YOU for all that you have done for our country!!! I am very glad to have you home safe & sound!! I can't wait for another get together and to see that little miracle Jake!!!! Keep smiling! and stay in touch!!!!!
GOD BLESS YOU!!!
Love ya,
Jill
..ya know what?..I've just decided I'm GLAD this war happened now, and not in 1991! why? because we didn't have blogs and soldier email in 1991! we wouldn't have gotten to know you like this if it hadn't happened NOW!...
shit, I"m gonna miss reading you, Will. Drove me nuts that we couldn't write TO you in email, only leave comments after your entries!...but ya know, if ya want, you can change that--??? now that you're home, you can , uh, open the lines if you want--?{hint hint} a guy like you can find plenty to rant about wherever you are, and beleive me, the intelligence shines thru!
Now, if only we could get your final word out to the Iraqis, to saturate their culture everywhere, maybe we could bring Everyone home....
but nahhhh-that would be too EASY! that would be TOO SIMPLE! that would be too much like SANITY! They'd never go for it!
so the stupid fight rages on...
?have ya kissed the ground you're walking on, yet?
welcome back, friend. we're always hungry for more if you feel like it.
and remember-this time, we can write TO YOU, too!!! so keep it in mind!!! there's a lot more you can say, now that you're home, that you couldn't when you were over there....
well, you get the idea. we're here if you want us.
Good luck Will and thanks for everything you did for us in Iraq. I hope they get the message soon so that everyone can come home too. But, you have done your part so enjoy your life and your family. Will miss your postings but look forward to the book.
:: Marie Lyons April 15, 2004 10:00 AMI have laughed and enjoyed your writings many times this past year. God bless you and welcome home.
:: Diane April 15, 2004 02:21 PMHey Will! I so enjoyed reading your about your experiences and will truly miss them. I am glad you are coming home safe and sound and wish you the best of luck in life. Thank you for protecting my freedom and the freedom of thousands of others.
:: Duchess April 15, 2004 09:46 PMTHANK YOU
:: Amanda April 16, 2004 12:27 AMThanks for the memories! By sharing your thoughts with us back home, it made what was happening over there seem not so far away. It became more of a personal matter than just something going on far away, resting in the back of our minds. It tugged at our hearts every day when we didn't hear from you for days, even weeks. I am very glad that you made it home safely, but I still worry about the others still there and now, with your log ending, not being able to know that at least one soldier is safe, it's a little bit harder to deal with. I can only hope and pray that it will end soon so that everyone can come home. Thanks again and God bless you and yours!
:: Lynne April 16, 2004 11:43 AMWelcome home, Will, and thanks once again for helping with my son's Eagle Scout project. I hope it made a small difference in a few Iraqi children's lives. If there are any photos that you could scan and send, my soon-to-be Eagle Scout would appreciate it. If not, well, you've done enough and know that we are grateful to you.
Braden is hooking up with Carlos in LA this weekend even as we 'speak'. His adjustments to being home seems to be going well, as I hope yours are too.
I give thanks every day that the men and women of the 323rd Chem Co made it home safely and I continue to ask for blessings on all of our service men and women still in harm's way.
Take care and God Speed, Will.
:: Jo April 17, 2004 02:34 PMWill - After reading your farewell post I started over and read through again from the beginning. I do hope you make it to Belize! My Army boyfriend & I went Sept 2002 - GREAT FUN! By the way, Beliken beer was only $2 a bottle! Have fun and again so glad you are home!
:: Barb VonTill April 22, 2004 06:55 PMHello Will,
and so this will be the last instalment for the web-page. Our wish is all this finish soon, a new government for the Iraq and an help to the his population must continue, hoping that, very soon, there aren’t others fights .So that all soldiers of the coalition return to home soon.We are very happy to know that smile together your little nephew, you enjoy all those that is missed in this year, distant of home.This once the translation is a little better, last favour, do you solve us this dilemma?Have you written of the book, true? Do you make to know us when it will be ready? Thank you.
We would like make a great greeting all that have written in your web-page.
PS: We are a little early know, but we would like wish you a very happy birthday....to home in the USA,with a great party and a beer in hand, cin, cin....new 31.
We wish all soldiers a happy life.
Ever two devoted italian readers Milena and Adriana
CIAO
Hello All,
Well it's official, I'm a light-weight. I'm not sure how many beers I drank and I'm positive that I don't know how I got back to the barracks. Not a good thing but at least it's out of my system, and my head is killing me. Did hangovers always hurt like this?
The weather here is beautiful. Rain without mud is great and the evergreen trees are marvelous. I know that I bashed on Wisconsin a year ago but right now I'm in love with the place. Mostly for the weather, but let's not rule out the lack of camels and filth of Iraq. The very best part for me is looking up at a roof instead of a tent. Beds are good but knowing that the roof isn't going to leak or fall down is the best.
I've been craving super nachos for about 6 months and last night I tore-up a plate and went looking for more... but the beer had me and that was the end of that.
Did you know that the bar in the airport in Shannon, Ireland is open at 5 a.m.? That bartender made a pile of cash in tips and the ride got a little bit easier to boot.
Right now I've just finished pushing paper to get out of here and am headed back to the barracks. I need a nap. And a shower wouldn't hurt either...
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
Welcome home. I've really enjoyed your blog over the past year.
:: Nancy Colbaugh March 25, 2004 05:42 PMIt's incredibly awesome to know that you are finally stateside again Will. I have been following your journey from the beginning, right from the time you were getting ready to leave, complaining the entire way. I am so happy for you and your loved ones, they must be overjoyed to have you home, safe and sound. Give that nephew of yours a tickle in the ribs for me. How does it feel to be back in the light?!
:: Mel March 25, 2004 05:57 PMWelcome to the good ol' USA!! :)
I owe you a beer when you get back to Omaha! ;)
:: Firebrand March 25, 2004 05:59 PMWOOHOO!!!! Your post brought tears to my eyes! I have been following your blog for the past several months. My DH cant be far behind you....I am so happy for you and that you are home safe and sound. God Bless you Will! Your journal helped me understand the realities of life in the sandbox. Thanks again. Enjoy that COLD Brew! Hugs from Massachusetts!
:: kat March 25, 2004 06:03 PMWelcome home! Bright blessings on your arrival, and a job well done. Make sure the rest of your crew know that we welcome them home and that we are really proud of you all.
:: meredith March 25, 2004 06:16 PMWelcome Home!! Thank God you and your folks are home safe.
Welcome home Wil!! I have been an avid reader and follower of yours from the very beginning...and it is soooo nice to hear or rather, read your writings of Wisconsin again!! Wish I were there to buy you a beer or seven! If you ever make it out to Seattle...it's on me!!!
Welcome home....your mother can finally breathe again!!!!
:: Sharon March 25, 2004 07:09 PMI am so happy you are home, Will!
Darn it! I was supposed to be in Sparta (Not that far from you) this weekend and I could've bought you a beer!
Now go see your nephew as soon as you can. :) Everyone misses you!
God bless and Godspeed!
:: Meg March 25, 2004 07:25 PMWELCOME HOME ! ! ! ! So very glad you are home. Just let us see that nephew in your arms. After all he belongs too your fans. You are one special fellow to keep us all informed with you blogs. Made it easier on this grandma, while her boy was over their. sometime it brought tears to my eyes & others I laughed so hard I cried. Tell all your boys Thank You. God Bless & Godspeed to all of you.
:: Alice M. Chace March 25, 2004 07:48 PMWelcome home!!!!!!! Hopefully someday relatively soon we can say that to the very last soldier returning home! Don't drink too much...you still have beer-thirty in Atlanta waiting on you if you ever make it southside!! Hope to hear more of your adventures when you get settled in!
:: Jamie K March 25, 2004 07:48 PMWelcome back!!! Glad you hear you finally like WI!!
:: Jessica March 25, 2004 08:40 PMHi Will,
I'm so happy for you! Welcome home! I'm so excited to hear you're back stateside, and in my home state, no less. I'm practically jumping up and down with glee. You'll have to tell us the nitty gritty details of how long it took them to get you from Iraq back to Wisconsin. I'll bet it's real nice to see green again. Give your nephew a little kiss for me. We're all so happy for you. Over the last year, I've laughed, cried, and I can't tell you how many times I've said to my husband: "Honey, come over here and read this, you're not gonna believe what Will wrote!" Have fun celebrating, but go easy on the booze. You have to ease into it. Hee hee. I just want to thank your mom, too. She's a very nice lady, and there have been a couple of times when her posts reassured all of us who were anxious when we didn't hear from you in awhile. God bless you for your service and sacrifice, and God bless your mom, and the rest of your family, including that tough little nephew of yours. And I just found out that I'm board eligible for Chief Petty Officer. Any Navy people out there will understand what this means. So good news all around. Hang in there and have fun!
Dawn Adams
Menasha, WI
Yes, hangovers have always...but who cares?
Welcome back!
Thanks a million for your service and your servitude. Thank you for bringing my son home safe with you. He says that Irish beer was wonderful.
Love,
A soldier's mom
Welcome Home Will! So glad you're back safe and sound!
:: IRA in JAX March 25, 2004 08:54 PMYou head on down to TN and we'll treat to some top notch BBQ and Beer! You deserve it! We've enjoyed your blog and hope you continue writing! Welcome home and thank you!
:: Greg & Karel Lea Biggs March 25, 2004 08:55 PMWelcome home! I have just recently found your site and find your writing delightful. I am so glad to see that you are home safely. God speed to you! ;)
Will,
Rest assured we will be working on that hangover thing when you get back. Pretty soon you won't even notice them anymore. Glad you made it to WI ok. Couple of more stops before the River City. I'll be waiting for that page. Still trying to find a bar open at 9 am that serves nachos......
SEE YOU SOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Welcome back. Have been following your trail since a co-worker told me about it. Her daughter is with you guys. I know what you mean coming home. I had the same feelings 35 years ago when I got back from SEA.
:: Don March 25, 2004 09:33 PMWELCOME HOME SOLDIER!!!!! I am so glad you are finally home! Do keep us posted on life at home - especially seeing Jake!
:: Barb March 25, 2004 09:33 PMWelcome Home!!!!! I am so glad your safe and sound and with a hangover!!!
:: Cathy March 25, 2004 09:34 PMWell, guess this means you made it "HOME" safe and sound - boy, am I glad to hear that. I hope you will be back in Omaha soon. I'm looking forward to seeing you. I expect you'll catch up with family first, especially your new nephew, Jake. And that's great! Enjoy yourself - you deserve it!! Bert
:: Bert from Omaha March 25, 2004 10:33 PMHangover or not, it's apparent you're happy, happy, happy to be back in the US. I'm very glad you and your soldiers are finally getting your wish, Will. See? No train this time!
As your other 'fans' mentioned, go see and enjoy Jake ASAP (as if I had to tell you that).
Oh no! I just thought of something....are you stopping your blog just 'cause you're 'home'? Say it isn't true Will! Are you ever going to post a pic of you here? Tell us yes!
Please tell your mom that I, for one, appreciated her posts and good spirits. And just to remind you, the welcome mat is open here if you ever get down to Arizona. My son and I would love to meet you in person. (as if you didn't have enough people clamoring for your visit to their state/city/town)
Also, if you get the chance, tell your fellow returnees welcome home from me, and a big thank you to you and them.
Judi
:: Judi Eckes March 25, 2004 10:51 PMSWEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!!!! I'm so glad you're home!! This makes me wish I was in WI to visit my mom and stepdad, cuz they don't live far from Sparta, least not that I think anyway....LOL This is great!! Now, remember to let us all know when you're gonna be on the Today show so we can tape it!!!!
HUGGGGGGGSSSSSSS!!!!!!
Welcome Home!!! Our prayers turn to prayers of THANKS as we thank God for your safe return to the USA. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your fellow soldiers. God bless you all.
:: Ella Jo March 25, 2004 11:53 PMGlad to hear that you are back on US soil! Welcome Home.
:: Jackie March 26, 2004 06:37 AMWELCOME HOME SOLDIER!!!! How exciting to hear that you are safe at home. I have truly enjoyed following you thru this blog over the past year. I realize now what you all give up to make the US safe for the rest of us. Thank you for sharing the past year of your life with us all.
Welcome Home Will!!!
:: zoecy March 26, 2004 07:06 AMWelcome home! You can never her that enough. Home is a feeling not a place and when you get back on US soil you feel it. Although the past year has been long, frustrating, miserable at times, and you prayed for it to go by fast, you will find that you miss it at times. You will miss the comraderie of your fellow soldiers. You will miss the expectation, the thrill of not knowing what is going to happen next. And you will miss knowing that you are serving a purpose, a valued purpose for yourself, your family, and your countrymen. I hear stories everyday from veterans who, even 40 years later, still remember fondly the misery of their service. Kind of ironic you end up loving what you may have hated. The civilian word may get a little boring after awhile, so take some time and live it up. GO see all those folks who have promised you a beer, good food, and warm hospitality. If you ever make it to Ohio I have about 97 state vet reps who would love to show you a good time! We have loved to live vicariously thorugh you these past may months. Eat, drink, and be merry for you are finally home! Good luck.
:: Selina March 26, 2004 07:15 AMWelcome home Will, and thank you for all you did. I know from reading your blog that many times it felt like a waste of time, but we civilians appreciate all of it.
One word of advice: go easy on the beer and nachos for awhile. You need to ease system back into it!
God bless, my friend.
:: Kelly March 26, 2004 07:24 AMWill,
WELCOME HOME!!!! Thank you for your service to our country, we all appreciate what you have done! I have read your blog since you started it...and have never missed one.
Kelley in Iowa
:: Kelley March 26, 2004 08:40 AMHey Will,
its great your back in the states...yes wisconsin is a great state (my home state) so you better not bash it again!
Welcome home soldier!
-from (next door) Minnesota!
:: Chris March 26, 2004 09:25 AMWelcome home, Will. I've enjoyed reading your blog for almost the entire year. Thank you for your service and I'm glad you're home safely.
:: Marty R March 26, 2004 09:54 AMWill,
Welcome home. Thank you so much for sharing your life for the last year. I really hope that you write a book about your experinces.
If you are ever in Fairbanks Alaska I would love to buy you nachos and beer.
When is your promotion ?
Jan
:: Jan March 26, 2004 10:18 AMWELCOME HOME WILL!!!
CHEERS!
:: radtec March 26, 2004 11:30 AMWELCOME HOME WILL!!!
(Here's a virtual hug for you!)
I'm so glad to hear you're back!
Welcome home and thank you!
Mels
:: Mels in Michigan March 26, 2004 11:48 AMWelcome Home!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything you have done. God Bless!
:: Megan March 26, 2004 12:04 PMWelcome back to the states, Will! We welcome you and the other soldiers home with open arms. Please don't stop posting...hope you are back here in Omaha soon. Weather is great here! My son's unit is due back next week.
Sue
:: SueinOmaha March 26, 2004 12:48 PMWelcome Back to the states!! Will be waiting to hear about your book soon! Give your Mom & Jake a big hug from all of us. Thanks Mom for sharing your son!
Take care of yourself. Not to many hangovers! Enjoy life!!
:: Chris March 26, 2004 12:54 PMWelcome back!!
For a guy and a friend who grew up with you and your family, I am finding it hard to hold back the tears of happiness. Dulcie and I are glad you and your crew made it back safely. I hope the rest of our men and women over there do the same soon.
Like most reader's I made it a point to check your Blog in the morning and night. A big thank you goes to your mom and family, for keeping family and friends updated constantly.
Tell your Sister to watch out for you. Being an uncle, as you will soon find out, you get to spoil your nephew. Hopefully they will not make you change any diapers.....or at least not the stinky ones.
Spend quality time with the ones you love and let us know when your ready to meet your fans & friends. Please at the very least, do not quit the blog cold turkey. We are all addicted to your rants and raves and I would think we would all have to check ourselves in rehab if you quit this blog cold turkey.
Nice to have you home, take care and I will hopefully see you in NW Iowa or Omaha.
Thank you for serving your Country and protecting my family as well as all of those that read the Blog.
Jon and Dulcie
:: Jon & Dulcie Lauritsen March 26, 2004 12:56 PMI'll be selfish for 5 seconds and say NO MORE POSTS....WWWWAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH
Ok, now back to being me.
I'm so glad you're home safe. Thank you for making us all laugh through these tough times. Good luck in your transition and most of all THANK YOU FOR DEFENDING US.
:: Semilla March 26, 2004 01:12 PMHey Will glad to have ya back stateside. Thank you for a year of enlightenment along with humor. I've enjoyed reading your posts and am glad that you are finally safe, sound and home. My Soldier has just begun his time over there and because of your blog I now have a greater understanding of what he'll be going through. Take care of you. Have fun, you've definitely earned it!
Hello Will!
Welcome home, and many thanks for your service overseas!
You're getting started on the book now, right? ;^)
:: Amy March 26, 2004 01:22 PMHi Will, Welcome home, and thank you so very much for serving our wonderful country and making it a safer place for us to live. I will always admire and be grateful to the dedicated, brave, and unselfish heroes of the U. S. military. You're all wonderful!!!
:: Connie March 26, 2004 02:00 PMWill
Home at last!! I'm so happy for you! Welcome back to Wisconsin....its not exactly the tropics but it has to better than Iraq....mullets, cheeseheads and all....
I'm glad you made it safely out of Iraq...you had lots of people saying prayers on your behalf.
I have to second the 'thank-you's'.....thank you Will for serving our country. It is a debt no one can repay.
Take care
L
:: Lorrie V. March 26, 2004 03:10 PMWelcome Back! glad you're enjoying yourself ;)
:: Eppy March 26, 2004 03:42 PMWELCOME HOME!!! I am so glad that you made it home! Enjoy yourself my friend....you deserve it! Keep in touch with us all, it has been a pleasure to have a glimpse into life through the eyes of a soldier. God Bless you!
:: Annette March 26, 2004 04:33 PMHiWill,
thank God you made it home!!! But lets keep the others in our prayers so they too can be home soon.I just wanted to say "Thank you Will," from the bottom of my heart for what you have done for our country!!! I hope life for you will be all down hill from here on out!! God Bless, Sherri
Welcome Home Will! Glad to hear you're back stateside and celebrating in proper fashion!
Just a tip, and don't ask how I know this but, salsa really hurts coming out your nose so be careful with those nachos and the alcohol mix... :)
Take care!
Hi Will and welcome home.
My first visit to your blog and I am adding you to my reads. My reads have grown boring and your site ought to spice my reading up some.
This Navy wife wants to thank you for your service in the military. My hubby is CO of a ship here in S.CA and I appricate him each day. He is deploying this year for only 6 months. But we are very proud of him and you. Take care.. I hope to be tagging you on a regular basis. JenD
Hi Will,
What a blessing it is to have you back here in the good old USA! God is great and answers prayers! Thank you so much for your hilarious rants! Most of all thank you for your service and dedication to our country. Live it up and enjoy the freedom
that you and all of the other brave men and women have fought for! You are awesome! Take care and keep those funny stories coming!
God bless!
Hi, how are yah. I am sure you're feeling wonderful being home again. I AM QUITE HAPPY FOR YOU, I'll grab a brew to celeb your safe return. Hey, even better I'll grab 2 bottles, one for you and one for me for my upcoming birthday next week. Pls don't ask the lady "how old she's gonna be?" Seriously I'm glad your back. Take care and God bless.
Welcome Home from all of us here in Texas!!!!!!! We have really enjoyed reading your stories, I have printed each and every one. Enjoy your family and friends and take it easy, sit back and relax... Glad your back.
Will,
I have tears streaming down my face. I have followed your journey for quite some time now. I am so proud of you and your fellow soldiers, proud and thankful. Thank you for your dedication and courage. I realize that I owe you and others like you the things I take for granted every day. You amaze me, and you are my hero. Welcome home.
Welcome...may God continue to bless you and your fellow soldiers. --Donna
:: Donna March 28, 2004 09:16 PMWill!
Welcome HOME! Thank you for the amazing job you have done and for the amazing blog!
I caught up to your blog in the early stages but still had to go back and read all about your adventures in Wisconsin. I think I even went back and posted in a few of those.
I am in Madison and if you are still in Wisconsin I would love to drive to Ft McCoy area and buy you a Beer! Hey I could even bring a home made meal to say thank you for a job well done!
Your blog has allowed me to see the life that my boyfriend has been living over there with you. He too should be home not to far behind you and so I just wanted to say thank you again for the amazing job you have done. If your interested in the beer give me an email.
Hopefully you are out of our green state and heading home to that family of yours. Enjoy them and remember to not take forgranted any moment with them. They loved you and so do all your readers.
Always,
Natalie
Army Girlfriend in Wisconsin!
:: Natalie March 28, 2004 09:26 PMWelcome home!!! I've been reading your posts for quite sometime now, & I'm happy to hear you are home safe. Make sure you give us an update on Jake when you see him!
:: Chrissy Manenty March 29, 2004 09:44 AMWelcome Home Will. Just like so many others I have been following your posts since the beginning. I have several friends who have been serving overseas and your posts have given me an appreciation for the experiences. If you're ever in Oklahoma, the bar at my house is open (after all, you're practically family!) and it comes complete with a bottle of Tylenol. Now that' you're stateside -- I hope you're talking to a publisher -- you should write a book!
:: Susan March 29, 2004 11:03 AMWill,
Welcome Home....
It's so wonderful to know that you are back safe and sound.
Thank you, Will, for everything you've done. You've made a tremendous sacrifice and it is sincerely appreciated by so many people. Please pass on our gratitude to your fellow soldiers.
I hope you continue to post stateside. I would really miss you, along with about a billion other Will-fanatics!
Don't forget if you get to Arkansas there's homemade wine and homecooked food and a party waiting on you. Just say the word.
Take care, Will. It's great to have you home....
:: Joelle March 29, 2004 12:24 PMWelcome Home! It is good to hear that you are home and safe. I don't have anyone in Iraq, but my class and I have followed your article (They got the edit version). Glad to have you home.
:: DJ March 29, 2004 02:46 PMWill-
I had the privilege of welcoming home the first group of South Dakotans to return on Friday (one being a very good friend). The best way to describe what I observed was Awesome and Surreal...Like it was so great, but was it really happpening...Were they all really home? Thank you for inviting so many into your life (more than I think you realize). Seriously, let us know when the book, movie deals, and television spots are happening. You make many proud, Soldier! Sarah
Hello Will,
First of all, thank you does not even begin to say it for the service you have performed for us. We all owe you greatly for the life you live to protect us. I am very grateful and my family is as well.
Secondly, welcome back to the great state of WI. For those of us who were born here and are crazy enough to still live here - WELCOME HOME!!! Spring has sprung and we are glad that you are able to be here to enjoy the warmer weather headed our way.
I hope you will be able to see your nephew and be blessed as his GODFATHER the right way. What a joy your family is feeling that you are safely here in the US.
God bless you, your troops, your family & friends. May you enjoy your time home and God Speed your friends home from there as well.
Welcome Home Solider!!! YOU ROCK!!!!
DJ from Racine, WI
:: DJ March 29, 2004 04:28 PMThe Irish know how to welcome people home. I'm glad your back.
:: carol March 30, 2004 08:18 AMWill!!!
Welcome back to the good ol' USA. What a great birthday present for you -- celebrating this year with family and friends and getting to see Jake for the first time :-) You deserve that kind of birthday! Enjoy!
Hard to believe (at least for me, probably not you) that it has been a year since I started reading your blogs. Thanks a million for allowing us all into your life. I, like many others, can't wait for the book. Hope you keep posting. I can only imagine the stories we will hear about transition back into civilian life.
Again, welcome back. Glad you're safe! Hope you're home with your family soon!
Hugs, Love, and continued prayers to you.
Kimberly in No. VA
:: Kimberly March 30, 2004 01:58 PMGlad to have you back in Wisconsin! I live just down Hwy 16, a few miles the other side of Sparta from you. I'm sure you want to get on home, though, and I hope you can get there soon. But just because your are back doesn't mean you can't blog anymore.
Thank you for your service, and have a wonderful life!
By the way, did you get to hear any of the Ole and Lena jokes while you were here?
Thank you for you service! You are still my hero.
:: Scarlett March 30, 2004 05:51 PM hey Will--didja do the one yet where you throw yourself face down on the lovely lush grass and kiss the ground, so grateful to be back on US soil? or the one where you get out and just take a long walk down main street and soak up the smells and sounds and senses of home? or the one where the silliest, dumbest things , the little things, that used to drive you crazy, suddenly make you cry, outta the blue, because they're so wonderful to have back again, exactly like they used to be?
and having been in a nation that's the size of california, are you blown away to see how vast is this land we call home?
welcome back. a thousand times, welcome back.
i hope you keep blogging. no one writes like you do. you're a rare one.
soak it all up. revel in it. let yourself get lost in the little things, like the evergreens in wisconsin, like snow in nebraska, like the birdsong you haven't heard in a year, like summer not getting any hotter than 95°...
and if you feel it, blog about whatever hits you, touches you, dawns on you, like that, as you arrive back to your home and your life in the free world.
hope to read about it. I'll be checking!
YOU are by far an amazing person keep up that great spirit of yours.
WELCOME HOME MY DEAR SOLDIER
GOD BLESS YOU!
Keep an eye out for those young single soldiers so that they don't get lost in the aftermath.
Hugs, Hugs and more Hugs.
A Hug for Mom also.
HipHip Hooray
Hello Will,
yahoooo…finally it‘s the moment to say: ”it’s finished”, well now the beer don’t miss you, but when you’ll read this we hope you haven’t drunk, it don’t will be the beer that you drinking also for us that you have drunk, true? If it’s so leave it a little us. We remember you that we are very happy that you are in USA, do you have finally hug small Jake and your family?
A dear greeting all you.Two devote italian friends,
Milena and Adriana, Ciao
Might as well make it 70 comments. I've been following your course since the first days of the war. I'm glad you made it through unscathed. I really was close to joining the army up here so I could pitch in, but Canada didn't send any soldiers to Iraq anyway. Either way, my heart was with you, I was dreaming of being a soldier with my fellow soldiers, defending the good people of Baghdad and maybe going down to Falluja (sp?) any haveing a chat with the people who killed those US contracters. Anyway, I wish I could have helped out some how. I'm glad you were there doing your bit. Thanks. Canada thanks you too!
:: Ryan from Canada eh? April 1, 2004 11:04 AMWelcome Home Will!!!!!! Thank You for all that you and your fellow soldiers have sacrificed to help those that could not help themselves. We are proud of all of our troops, and ecstatic to have you back in CONUS!!! Be safe, enjoy, and we all hope you will keep us posted on where and what life as planned for you next!!! Hugs, kisses and prayers to Jake.
Melissa
:: Melissa April 1, 2004 05:07 PMWell done Soldier!!
Now GO FLY A KITE!!
If you need one...
Please contact me..
Happy to send you anythng you'd like.
Warren Harris
Eden Kites
DeSoto TX.
www.edenkites.com
wharris@connect.net
Been reading the 'blog for a while....
glad to see you made it safe home...
Hey Will - when do you get back to NE?
I'll be there April 17 and would love to buy you a Budweiser!
Cat
Denver, CO
Hey Will!
It has been a while since I checked your blog. I am so so happy that you are finally home. Now you can spoil your little nephew to pieces. Wohoo!
Thank you so much for your blog, because it gave me so much.
Enjoy your time at home and drink a beer for me will ya!
Many hugs to you.
Glad to have stumbled across your website.
Thank you so much for all that you did.
Love Nicole
:: Nicole April 7, 2004 08:47 AMWelcome bacck to the "World" and THANKS.
:: C Wortham April 7, 2004 02:06 PMWill, where the heck did you disappear to, buddy? We heard more from you when you were halfway around the world! I hope you didn't come down with a serious case of alcohol poisoning. Hope to read more from you soon, just to let us know how you're adjusting to life back in the states.
:: Kelly April 8, 2004 12:04 PMHello All,
Well now, here I am (again) in sandy Kuwait. Here I am (again) washing government equipment. Here I am (again) preparing to prepare to go home. I'm not going to dwell on the similiarities of this trip and my last experience in Kuwait because I don't want to jinx what I percieve as good karma, let's hope my dogma doesn't run it over!
Let me tell you about Iraq, and why it's better than Kuwait. Yep, you read it right, Iraq is better than Kuwait for one reason: it's the wild west and nobody messes with you. The rules are those meant to protect you and the chicken-shit of everyday Army life goes right out the window, which is very nice. In Kuwait however, the small minded/powerpoint driven micromanagement driven Army of One (that one and the one I'm in) is alive and well. Flourshing actually. Too bad I don't have time to tell you all about it... but I will as soon as possible. Actually, we've got a pretty good "live and leave me the hell alone or else," attitude going on here at Camp Victory and it is suiting everyone pretty well.
Things are moving well. No exact timelines yet, but that is to be expected. We've got to stay flexible and ready to move on a moment's notice. The wash racks are pretty busy considering that there are only 120,000 troops tring to get the hell out of here. I know that I have quite a few things I want to say before I go but you'll all have to wait...
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
Tell those Marines to shut the hell up and leave you alone or else there will be some pretty mean mothers, sisters, brothers, friends they will have to answer to--and I mean it!
Welcome to this leg of "you're on the way home" journey.
Be safe and come home, Not soon, But now!
Great news,
Thanks, SGT,
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine March 13, 2004 08:47 PMWe - AMERICA - Love You and ALL.
Hold your temp you're almost home (in time to see Pres. Bush and Kerry debate - I'll stop here :)
God Bless You and our Military
A.
hmmm...I always wonder what One in Army of One meant. One what?!
Anyways, glad it's (almost) all coo w/ u ;)
:: Eppy March 14, 2004 01:29 PMHi Will,
I'm glad to see you're keeping that wonderful sense of humor going. I cannot imagine what you guys must be going through. So close. That light keeps getting bigger with time. So many people are thinking of you and praying for you.
I think the "Army of One" slogan sucks. Of course, I'm Navy, so what do I know? What was wrong with "Be All That You Can Be"? Hopefully, those REMF's in Kuwait will continue to leave you guys alone. I think at the very least, they can cut you all some slack. Anyway, we all wait, ever so hopefully, with crossed fingers and toes to hear a definite date that you all will get to finally come home. Hang in there and stay safe.
Hey, Glad you're coming home! dON'T BE SO ROUGH ON THE MARINES THEY'RE STILL STUCK THERE! I do not care which branch I want you all home! mY GUY CAME home and I know we celebrated in more ways than one. You'll have plenty of friendly faces "Welcoming you Home!" Some will one even want to know if you brought back some of that sand and dirt as a sourvenir? gET BACK HERE YOU ARE MISSED! STAY SAFE AND remember duck if some idiot asks you to salute him causes he's a newbie in the area!
:: Theresa March 15, 2004 07:43 AMHang in there, Will. Your time in that part of the world is almost over. Soon you'll be back here (it's snowing like crazy in Omaha this morning and predictions are for up to 7" of the white stuff). Have a safe journey.
:: SueinOmaha March 15, 2004 08:51 AMSounds like you'll be able exchanging sand for snow. But you will be able to enjoy that a little more I think.So wash that sand right out of your hair and get home safe real soon!
:: Chris March 15, 2004 11:31 AMYay for you, Will! I'm so happy for you that you've started the first steps on your way home! Just don't slip in soap suds while you're busy washing stuff. *grin*
Greetings to Will's family and friends back home, too! I'm happy for all of you that you'll soon have Will with you again!
I pray God's blessings on you all.
Courtney
:: Courtney March 15, 2004 04:00 PMWill-
As Sue said - IT'S SNOWING AGAIN!! All damn day! Big wet heavy flakes, it's actually very pretty. And it's staying off the roads so that's good.
I'm getting tired of having these shortbread cookies staring me in the face so get your butt home soon otherwise they might be gone.
Scooby says we are under a week now so you'd better not prove him wrong. See ya in the funny papers!
Nothin' better than bein' short! Thank God your tour in Iraq has come to an end and your on the road home. Even if it does take you through Kuwait (again). A guy I work with also returned about two weeks ago. He said, "Paradise ain't all it's cracked up to be." I imagine you'll know exactly what he's talking about!
Blessings to you and the rest of the soldiers. Thank you for your time and sacrifice, and hurry home!
Deb from almost sunny, not-quite paradise, Leavenworth, KS
:: Deb March 16, 2004 11:31 AMHello Will,
Well so this adventure is arrived to the end finally and between few days you will have finished to wash,prepare to go home end the sandy Kuwait will be only a memory. We will miss to read for post in site of Capitan Rooba, we will miss all, also of to be furiouses how when we don't knew translate,you are been only to have made the english language interesting and nice by the way, someone must to have tried your writing very interesting and when all this become a BOOK, do you know us we will are the first to buy it here in Milano and for us it'll is wonderful memory.Because also if there is big distance between us,we will don't forget never Sergeant Will.Where have you told that you will go for your trip of holidays?.....Ops, we have forgot the destination....Wherever you will go enjoy very much.
CIAO all
Milena and Adriana
Just checking in to see if you've made it home yet. I swear I've read this entry before - about a year ago. ;-)
Glad the light is shining brighter. Now get home! I heard your car is reallllly dirty and could use a good washing. ;-)
:: rkinla March 23, 2004 08:23 AMHello Will,
What it is happened!Why you don’t write?Where do you are?We hope finally that you are returned to home,but you give us your news,maybe goodness knows where you are in tour for your holiday.....You write,write we want to know.
CIAO all and happy return to home
Milena and Adriana
I also heard that someone's mom is waiting anxiously to hug her soldier safe and sound!
:: Judi Eckes March 25, 2004 10:10 PMHello Everyone,
Goodbye Iraq. By the time you read this I'll be in Kuwait doing what every soldier learns in basic training. Cleaning. The Army is huge on cleaning and I'm a little confused by it all. I mean, the Army always puts us in messy situations full of dirt, sand and lots of other crap and then wants everything to look like new. Well fine, just as long as YOU know that's an old piece of crap and I know that it's an old piece of crap I'll make it look like a fine piece of Army equipment worth the tax payers cash.
But the real reason is so that we don't bring any nasty Iraqi bugs home that will screw up the US ecology. That is a good reason to clean the hell out of anything (I like to eat). Well, I'd better get going, it's time to load the truck.
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
Well back to the thing you did last time. Clean, Clean & Clean. Then HOME ! !! I hope to hear from you when you get Home. Kiss Jake for me. Hope when he is the age of 18 their is no more war's.
God Bless Y ou & Your boys. Always in my prayer's.
Will,
Wow! That's definitely good news. Have fun on the cleaning crew, and hurry home!
:: Laurissa March 7, 2004 11:07 PMGonna wash that gray right outta my hair...remember that commercial? I guess your song would be, "Gonna wash that sand right outta my hair..."
So very wonderful news.
Be safe, hooray! We're all waiting, with bells on...
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine March 8, 2004 12:10 AMWoo hoo!! Good to hear it! :) Hope that that time between Kuwait and home passes by in a flash! :)
:: Firebrand March 8, 2004 03:09 AMYIPPIE AYE OH KY-A! Coming home soon is great news.
Be safe and hope you're home quickly!
:: Theresa March 8, 2004 04:02 AMWelcome home, Will.
This must feel like being rescued from a desert island!
:: Sharon March 8, 2004 05:50 AMYA HOO Buckaroo!
Let Freedom Ring!
God Bless You and All.
Forever in our hearts.
Aurora
:: Aurora March 8, 2004 07:54 AMGreat news. You guys are almost home! My son should be right behind you. They are scheduled to leave on the 25th.
God bless our soldiers.
Another soldier's mom...
:: SueinOmaha March 8, 2004 08:21 AMI JUST WELCOMED MY SCNG HUSBAND HOME AFTER 11 MONTHS!!! HE SAYS IT IS AN AWESOME FEELING AND I AGREE!
HURRY HOME!!!!!!!!!!
HIS TRIP HOME WAS TRUE ARMY FASHION BUT HE MADE IT!!!
A NG WIFE
:: MELISS March 8, 2004 08:52 AMThanks for your service to our country, and hopefully, a better world.
:: Todd March 8, 2004 11:44 AMAt least you know your working toward something: Going HOME!!! I'm sure you are going to get the welcome you so much looking forward to. I'm sure that's after your Mom (a great MOM) bops you upside your head once or twice for scarying her. But then again she will have forgotten the scary moments. Can't wait to hear about the trip home and the home coming!!
Take Care!!
godspeed will and thanks for a job well done.
:: carol March 8, 2004 12:31 PMNothing like a good old GI Party! It is amazing what you can clean out with a
q-tip! Puts a new spin on the term spring cleaning. Have fun and have a safe journey home!
Woohoo...I have been following you for the past year...with you going to Kuwait, my hubby cant be far behind! This is encouraging! God Speed, and thanks for sharing your thoughts over the past year.
From a National Guard Wife (dont hold it against me, he was regular army for years!)
:: Kat March 8, 2004 04:52 PMGlad to hear you are closer to being on your way home! That's great news!!!
See you soon, I hope. I'll bet your family is thrilled, and you'll finally get to meet Jake - I hear about his progress all the time. Bert
This is the second best post I've read from you.......the very best will be the one when it says you safely arrived back home. This will be an extra special mother's day for a mom who certainly did her job well. Don't let coming home stop you from writing! We want to keep hearing from you!
TAKE CARE!
This is such good news, I bet you can't wait to hit the home turf again. Keep us posted...
Glad to hear that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and doesn't seem to have a loud horn attached. I'm sure your friends and family are all doing a happy dance. I'm sure you can't wait to meet your new nephew for the first time... maybe he's ready to arm wrestle you by now! :)
Take care and safe travels!
At last!!!! Have a safe and swift journey home!
:: katkarma March 9, 2004 04:22 PMWOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SEE YA STATE SIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!
CONGRATS AND WE ARE GLAD TO HAVE YA BACK!!!!!!!!!!!
I'LL CRACK OPEN A BEER IN YOUR HONOR!!!!!!!!!!!!
:: Cat March 9, 2004 05:18 PMWill--> Greetings from Iowa!!!
I like many others here have been watching and reading these rants since day 1. I've never missed one. Your Mother, I am sure is proud of you...and she should be. Give your Nephew Jake a BIG Hug & Kiss for me...He'll be excited to see you to I am sure.
I pray that you have a safe trip home.
Thank you for serving our Country.
God Speed, Will.
Kelley
:: Kelley March 10, 2004 08:46 AMHi Will,
I can relate to cleaning like crazy in the military. I had many a day when I was active duty Navy when we cleaned till I thought I was gonna drop.
I'm so happy that you're finally gonna get to go home. Godspeed, and God bless you! Thank you for your service, Will. It is much appreciated by many people. We'll all look forward to hearing about your homecoming. Hang in there and stay safe.
Hi Will! Just wanted to tell you how much I've enjoyed reading your journal these many past months. My own son returned from Iraq two months ago and I am happy to know that your turn has finally come! Godspeed in your journey, blessings always! Thank you for your service, sincerely.
:: Anne March 12, 2004 01:57 PMDear Will and readers
Hi, I am the onw who posted about wired message about my bf's extension in the previous comments. First, I wanted to say that I am so sorry to ruined the wonderful news about Will and all reader's excitement with my post. I was going crazy to hear my sweet bf saying good bye to me. I even didn't know what I was doing. I must tell you, this was the toughest time in my whole life but I got an E-mail from him today and we are OK now.
I also wanted to say Thank you to the readers who gave me advises. I really appreicated.
Will: Welcome home. Your readers are wonderful and If you ask me you alwasy get a free bear from now.
Again, so sorry about my stupid post and I hope your wonderful heart will forgive me.
Best Regards,
N
N,
One of the main reasons why we created this site was to help those abroad and those at home cope with the uncertainties of loved ones so far away.
Everyone here understands.
CR
:: Captain Rooba March 12, 2004 09:42 PMAnd you have succeeded, Captain. Whether we were laughing, crying, or ranting with Will, reading the comments from his faithful readers helped his family cope with his absence. We hope it helped other families who had loved ones fighting to preserve our freedoms, including the right to have sites such as this. We thank you all for your witty comments to Will and your prayers for him and Jake.
God Bless.
Will's family
Wonderful News of your upcoming trip home. You and your troops will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers until you arrive safely and adjust to being a civilian once again. No words can tell you how proud we are of you for the job you have done. A special thanks to your Mom for sharing your emails with us all and the personal emails that she has sent keeping me updated. She is a very special person. She sent me pictures of Jake not long ago. What a handsome little guy. Just like his Uncle. He is going to be so spoiled when you get home. Hurry Home. Ella Jo
:: Ella Jo March 13, 2004 04:01 PMFantastic News Will! Have a fast and safe return home. I have sure enjoyed reading your rants this past year. So many times I needed that laugh or read about what you as a soldier was experiencing. My son just returned home after 353 days over in that lovely place. Thanks Will!
:: GB March 13, 2004 08:34 PMHello Will,
really we would like read:farewell Iraq, goodbye Home, and so also this once is time to wash,wash but maybe the Army US wants everything to look like new why is time to return to home and to leave for ever this..."sand"... You think few days ago the wind has take here in Italy "the sand of desert",there were the cars all red it seems absurd, true?.... Also us here in Italy we had to wash, wash....the cars.
Ciao all Adriana and Milena
The possibility that we have been to write on this site it has made to born feelings how friendship and loved between and all readers, considered that all it has born in difficult moment, we thank Will and all for have made discover those values, also between foreign peoples and fareway.
We greeting Will and all readers also if little once we have could read your post for the difficult to translate, with the hope that all this can continue.
We are very happy to know that for all last year we have kept company to Will,also for us it has been a great company.
With love by two italian girls
Milena and Adriana
Like all your readers, I look forward to future posts from Captain Rooba.
"A soldier's life is terrible hard
Says Alice." (Milne, Winnie the Pooh)
Click your heels three times and repeat after me....."there's no place like home....."
:: Judi Eckes March 25, 2004 10:08 PMTHANK YOU
:: Amanda April 16, 2004 12:23 AMHello All,
I'm so short you have to dig a hole to kick my ass! I'm so short I can parachute off a dime! Yep, less than 20 days to 365 in theater and I'm stoked about it. The replacements are here and even though their command seems to be dragging their heels a bit (see Typical) the train-up has begun and packing as well.
There is a common fear, however, that we are not quite done yet. That we'll get jerked (again) and find ourselves facing another mission in someplace that isn't home. I guess we're all used to it and most don't want to get their hopes up, but I'm trying to remain positive on this.
It's still quiet here, kinda spoiling the new guys but that's ok. They will get to learn all the fun and games in their own time anyway.
I love you all,
Will
PS - buy stock in Budweiser.
:: Comments left behind ::
Will
Congratuations!! I wish I could be happier. Honestely, I was wondering if you could help me. I just got stunning message from my bf saying he was extended 2 years. He said he will not be back to civilian sector and won't allowed to reach E-mail or messenger. And he is saying good bye. He said when the giving choice, he has to choose to serve his country. I just need to talk to him cause I am willing to wait as long as it takes. He was the active duty AF Intelligence and when the war started he was Reservist. But I guess he is going back to active. I know there is nothing to do with you and you probaly can do anything about it but would it try find him??? I can't reach him at all. If you could write to me at naomi-liz@nifty.com I can tell him about more. Sorry for the rumble but I don't know what to do any more
:: N March 2, 2004 08:15 PMRemember the dance where there is a pole suspended and you have to limbo under it? Are you that short? Is the pole on the ground yet?
Bring my soldier home with you. I miss him. Tell him his car has a full tank of gas. The 119 yellow ribbons on the tree in our front yard are ready to be taken down as soon as I get word that 119 pairs of boots are all safe and sound, happy and in the arms of those they love.
Let me know. I'm on the edge of my seat.
Congratulations!
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine March 2, 2004 09:56 PMHORAY ! ! ! About time, maybe you will get lucky like my grandson. He will be home tommorrow from the Hell Hole. Wasn't to get back till May. He called from Germany & said doesn't know what is going on but that is the Army.
Just make sure you keep in touch with all of us. Love (((HUGS))) Kiss Jake for me. Wish I was their when you got home as i would buy that first Bud.
:: Alice March 3, 2004 12:09 AMWill I hope this is it for you and that you will be able to come home soon!!!
Keep us posted!!!! (No pun intended)
Godspeed!
:: Theresa March 3, 2004 06:10 AMGOG BLESS YOU! Tears running down my face (happy tears). Thank you for bringing some perspective about military life and it's higher ups. My son returned nearly 3 months ago, having a difficult time adjusting and the wanne be(s) are sure giving him hell and so thru your eyes you've allowed me to understand how unhuman they can be. Yep! I've called the chaplain twice to see if he can intervene , he has yet to followup. I'm leaving it up to God . Thank you for allowing us to come into your life, I'm so HAPPY you're finally coming home. Your Mom did a swell job.
God Bless You!
Will,
After all you've been thru, you can do 20 days standing on your head. Congratulations to you and your unit on a job well done. Your country is very proud of you. I'll be watching the local news to see if they publicize your unit's return. Take care and God Bless!
Hey Will,
Been reading your rants for awhile now, and I'm happy you'll be on your way back home soon. So when is the Nationwide Victory Tour, or at least a visit to Boston so I can buy you a tall cold one?
Congrats. I'll be sorry to miss your pithy comments from Iraq.
You're training a replacement blogger right?
I particularly liked your entry on gift distribution to the schools. I'd heard 'sanitized' reports from the mainstream media that didn't include the context and depth you provided.
Thanks again for the on-the-spot info reports.
So, will you be voting for Bush or Kerry this November?
Frank
:: Frank Patton March 3, 2004 11:05 AMWill,
Like many of the postings I too am so grateful for you sharing your experience with us. I hope that life returns to normal for you as soon as possible.
Your honesty, humour, and rantings are most appreciated. You and all the other troops have so many people thinking about you and the future because of the weblogs that have been written over the course of the war.
Even though we're strangers, I've found myself wondering about all you war bloggers. When you've returned to the states I hope you'll let us know how things are going before you fade back into the anominity of ordinary life.
Thank you for all you've done online and off. Peace be with you.
Hi Will!! I'm too short for my shoes, too short for my shoes, tooo shoorrrtt....sung to the tune of I'm too sexy for my shirt! (which I'm sure you are that too!!)
I'm so happy to hear you are on your way home..for all of you and especially your families! My ex-husband and I are both prior service and I know that feeling of missing someone so much you can't breathe and that special, wonderful feeling you have inside the first time you get to hold them again! Oh and to finally get to meet your little Godson Jake....so much to look forward to my friend!!
If you ever get out to Seattle you'll have plenty of Bud and anything else waiting for you here! Please stay in touch with us once you return home and let us know all is well.
Your friend...
Sharon
:: Sharon March 3, 2004 12:01 PMDon't pull your socks up, you may go blind.
But look on the bright side, you can become a model posing for trophies, play handball on the curb, or practice back flips in complete privacy under your bed.
:: Joe Lauritsen March 3, 2004 01:10 PMNow don't get to big for your britches yet, LOL, The count down as begun. Hoorah! But still want you home safe!! So until you are on US soil take care. Want Jake to have his very special uncle to spoil him rotten! And when he is old enough you can take him out and tell him all your war stories the funny and not so. Have a safe trip home. And instruct those new guys well want them home safe also in a few months.
:: Chris March 3, 2004 02:01 PMWill,
Thank God it's finally time! I'm so glad to hear that you're coming home soon. I have enjoyed hearing from you all these months and I'll miss it when you're gone - but I'll be happy at the same time. Does that make sense? Please continue to keep us posted when you get back. Enjoy your homecoming and a return to "normal" life.
Thank you so much for all the time and effort you've put into communicating with us. And thanks, again, for doing what you do and being who you are. Without you and those before you, we wouldn't be enjoying the freedoms we have today. Very sobering... Thanks...A lot. For me...and for my children.
Good luck and God speed, Will.
PS, I have some cold beer and homemade wine waiting for you in Arkansas - not to mention a lot of people who would love to meet you!
:: Joelle March 3, 2004 02:06 PMHmmmm just waiting for the wakeup call, eh?
Wow...you going to read all the entries once you settle home? It'll take at least a year to read em all Will. LOL
If at all possible, write one last entry before you leave...please? One when you actually return home would be asking too much, hmmm? May the time pass quickly, the message be true, and the travel be safe and speedy.
Maybe one day you'll decide to email some of us regulars here....I know I would love that! Will, give your mom the hardest hug of all...she's been a gem which I'm sure you know.
Godspeed,
Judi (& Wyatt)
Hey Will!
I'm truly thankful that God has kept you safe and is bringing you home to your loved ones soon. I do hope you won't forget about all of us out here and will keep us posted on your life once you get back in CONUS!
Btw, I'm in Germany. If you stop through here on your way home, drop me a line!
Hugs,
Courtney
WOO-HOO! 20 DAYS! I am so happy for you. All of you have had one long stretch! Come back safe my friend. Prayers and hugs to you all!
:: Annette March 3, 2004 08:16 PMHi Will,
Hey, you short-timer you! I'm so happy for you! Whoopee! This is wonderful! Godspeed and best wishes for a safe and quick trip home. I hope you'll continue to blog when you get home. Your writing is truly a gift. If you're ever in my little neck of the frozen tundra, I'll have plenty of beer, cheese, and brats for you. God bless you for all that you've done to support the freedom so many of take for granted. Hang in there and stay safe.
Right ON, Will.
Thinking of you and your team, and sendong positive thoughts that you all are home as planned. Best to you, your team and your families.
Godspeed and God Bless!
:: Jen March 3, 2004 11:12 PMKeg tapped - check
Mug frosted - check
Cow killed - still working on that one, know of some feedlots back home I may check into.....
Everyone's excited here and wondering when the party will be. I think it's more of when WON'T the party be. happy, happy, joy, joy!
Hey Will,
I have been tagging along on your adventure since the start. I've been quiet until now, but there seems to be some added urgency to drop a line since you may not be in contact after you return home. I am a fellow South Dakotan and initally that's what made me continue to come back to your site...but it didn't take long to get hooked.
I want to commend you for all of your hard work and sacrifice. You and your fellow soldiers deserve the GREATEST and HIGHEST honors for all that you have done for us. You have given us insight to Army life and some definite perspective on life in general. You are an incredible person and soldier and I hope to have the honor of, one day, getting to meet you. I've been appreciative of your honesty and humor over the last year and I'm going to miss hearing all of your latest rants.
Again, Thank You and Congratulations on the trip home!
If you ever in Winner, stop in...we'd love to buy you a beer!
Mardi
:: Mardi March 4, 2004 04:04 PMWill,
I am so glad that you finally get to come home. Please keep us posted on how your return to normal life goes.
There is plenty of Bud here in Fairbanks Alaska if you ever stop by.
Jan
Jan
Like all the others, CONGRATs on your impending arrival back to CONUS. If you're ever in the Denver area, I'd love to buy you a round or several. Thanks for your service to our country. Keep up the blogging!!
:: Howard Smith March 4, 2004 05:05 PMI'll have to say it for everyone - IT'S ABOUT D@MN TIME! Keep your head down and you'll be home soon. I really do hope that you will have a replacement for your blog. Even if they don't have your dry humor, it would be nice to have someone still writing from there. Well I hope you have a safe trip home. Thanks for the good and bad times! God bless each and every one of you!
:: Lynne March 5, 2004 10:06 AM damn, I'm gonna miss you when you're home. [what?] i started using your expressions after getting in the habit of reading your blog adventures. now I can't stop!
I still bust out laughing every time i relate your 'I'm a Humvee" story to someone new.
speaking of which, you gonna take the beast out for one last mad max test before you have to say goodbye? did you guys ever get those three towed out again after they sank up to the rims?
when you get home you can dress jake in little baby olive drabs and cammies, put him on your shoulder like a little airplane, and run around the park like that with him tucked in tight against you, making mock combat sounds and exciting him. boy babies love the rough stuff. they seem to start craving it right about, oh--9 months old? and after that it just gets more insistent.
don't forget to pick up souvenirs before you head home.
oh--and you'll be sneezing up crud for months after you get home from the sandbox.
hope to have a few more of your entries to read, telling us about the journey home and getting back, before you blend back in.
damn, you're funny.
Hello Will,
yahooooo.....we are very happy that there are only a few days left for return to home.If own you must parachute but do it in the italian sky, don't you worry we are below to salvage you....ahahahahah!!! When you will be in fly for your return to home and if you will cross our sky you will see safety the Alpi (see mountain) to north of Milano, beh Milano is near there, you make to us a greeting and also when we will see a fly cross sky we will make a greeting, maybe you are there.
PS:come on, the next mission will be only that of return to home, we are safe.
Happy return all. Adriana and Milena.
Will -
Congratulations! I have really enjoyed your rants and I do hope you continue them when you get home. I hope that you can train one of your replacements to continue the Iraq blogs -it really helps to understand what our loved ones go through.
Thank you so much serving our country and for protecting all of us. I am in the Home of Budweiser beer - St. Louis - and if you ever come through here you have to take the brewery tour!!!
Kiss Jake for all of us!
:: Barb VonTill March 7, 2004 04:00 PMTHANK YOU
:: Amanda April 16, 2004 12:21 AMHello All,
With yesterday's excitement I forgot all about the news that really made me scratch my head. You see when all this began, over a year ago, my Company had one No-Show. We tried to find him, but he wasn't at work or at home. We called his family and his mother said, "You're not takin' my BOY!" Well, sorry lady, but if your boy doesn't show up in the next 27 days (he gets 30 to report) we're gonna call him a deserter.
He didn't show. We called the Provost Marshall (think of a Super MP, kinda like a Sheriff but different) and they issued a warrant. We all thought of the little prick as a coward, and I think we're right. If he's been reading this he knows what we've been going through and that he made a very bad choice.
Better make that choices, but I'll get to that in a minute. Sure enough he was picked up for speeding and arrested on charges of desertion. I think that the max penalty for that is death, but I'm not JAG (Judge Advocate General - see Army for lawyers or a TV show) and I've heard that reservists are just getting Dishonorable Discharges and a kick in the ass. That's what this little schmuck probably would have received, except...
When he was turned over the the Army at Ft. Riley he claimed that he was crazy, so they shipped his dumb ass across the country (on your tax payer
dime) for a psych eval. The Army head-shrinkers quickly agreed that he wasn't crazy, just stupid and told him that he had to go back to Ft. Riley and take his medicine. But wait, this is the Army and since he's going there anyway why not put him to good use? This Army Car needs to go to Kansas and he needs to go to Kansas so why not put one in the other and save a little time? The kid can't be THAT stupid...
Well, maybe it wasn't a good idea to give a 'flight-risk' a car with a full tank of gas. Maybe somebody should have told him that desertion, twice, along with Grand Theft Army Auto will probably land him in an entirely DIFFERENT Kansas location where his daily activites would include big rocks, not-so-big rocks and little rocks (oh, and a hammer). Maybe they should have realized that if he'd run from war he's sure to run from authority and he surely did. At least he hasn't reported to the good (as good as Army posts get) place in Kansas yet, and that is not a good thing. Kid, if you're reading this you need to get your dumb ass to Riley ASAP and pray that they don't lock you up for the max. Or you could just run for Mexico and NEVER come home again because if any of us soldiers that are doing your job and picking up the excess slack caused by your gutless, yellow, lower that whale shit ass we're gonna thump your skull and drag you down to the Sheriff. Oh, and watch out for those steps 'cause you're gonna fall 'up' them at least two more times.
But, he's probably too busy getting that "Exit Only" tattoo on his butt to have time to read right now.
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
Ouch O Ramma, Will! I'm sensing some ....uh....hostility. Ok, he shouldn't have fled the call up. He shouldn't have been speeding. Claiming insanity wasn't a very good idea either. He certainly shouldn't have been dumb enough to flee again with an Army vehicle, to be sure.
Hmmm...yea, ok...I see where your hostility is coming from. Will? Don't glare at me, but maybe in war meeting fire with fire is advisable, but I know you're better than that in situations like this, right?
Let karma take care of Mr. Responsibilty Ditcher, ok? You, nor your soldiers, need that worry. Just all of you get your butts back here in one collective piece, and let the Powers that Be take care of Little Mr. Responsibility Ditcher.
Hugs, Prayers, and Godspeed,
Judi
:: Judi Eckes February 21, 2004 10:31 PMWill,
As the pregnant (see due in 5 weeks) wife of a reservist who was just sent to Kuwait last week, and who was laid off from work the same day he landed, I say find the sucker when you have the time. Actually, though, he is probably stupid enough that he will be caught again before y'all get back to CONUS. I CAN'T STAND people who aren't willing to fulfill their obligations to our nation, especially when my husband has sacrificed so much to do his. And if you want to/ can send out this idiot's name and description, I will make sure people here in Texas (see I35 corridor directly to Mexico) keep our eyes out for him.
Take care, and Godspeed.
:: Laurissa February 21, 2004 11:44 PMI agree with the previous post. You've got way more to worry about than some worthless chicken-little. YOU GUYS are the ones with the important jobs, and he's proved himself not that important. He'll get his later on...just you wait and watch. Just take care and GET HOOOOOOOME!!!!
:: Dianne February 21, 2004 11:44 PMThis CERTAINLY calls for some serious "Wall-To_Wall" counceling.
:: Tesla February 22, 2004 12:35 AMHi Will,
Holy cow! Like people mentioned in previous posts on this, the dumb ass deserter will do something stupid and get caught. As the old saying goes, "What goes around comes around." It floors me that the Army let this prick go back to Ft. Riley alone with a vehicle! Whoever made that decision ought to do some time in the brig. When I was studying for my Chief's exam, there are passages from the Manual for Courts Martial that mention that in time of war, a reservist can be reactivated to active duty, and be put on trial in the form of a General Court Martial. The penalty for desertion in a time of war can go as high as the death penalty, so you never know. We can always dream, can't we? I agree with you 100% that this idiot should at the very least spend the rest of his pathetic life doing hard labor in prison. It's a total insult to all of you guys and the rest of the military that reported in and did their duty, that this creep should be able to escape. Hang in there and stay safe.
Hey Will! I, like you, absolutely can not believe the stupidity involved in giving a flight risk a car to "drive himself!" HELLO is anyone home??? Speaking of home, any news on the big day? Hugs and prayers continue to be sent your way! Don't worry about the low-life deserter, what goes around comes around. Maybe not today, but someday it will bite him in the ---! Take care and be safe!
:: Annette February 22, 2004 07:34 PMSeeing what a brainiac this guy is, I for one am happy his idiotic ass wasn't over there covering yours - well you know what I mean :)
So either he'll get his in the end or he'll be promoted....
:: Shell February 23, 2004 03:53 PMHe should have been escorted back to Riley. If caught again he should not be let off lightly (bad example). He should be assigned to another unit immediately or at the least made to pay back all the money he has ever gotten from the military.
Say Hi to the 79th MP's if you see them!
:: Mary, an ex MP February 23, 2004 04:14 PMLook on the bright side. He was up for AWOL and missing movement. Now, with any luck, he'll be up for desertion. When they catch up to him, he might be heading for a different part of Kansas!
:: Dave (USA, ret) February 23, 2004 08:18 PMHello Will,
patriot soldier,nice title "In the land of the morons" ahahah,excuse us but it make us too smile. We seem that you are just a little angry with this kid....Qiuet,quiet, you don't angry own now that you are returning to home.Permit us say you that for us you have make an excellent job and certainly you'll don't is very comforting, but we think it really, we are capable sergeant. (You tell that the sentence for deserter is the death, isn't it a little bad? Beh luck that you aren't a JAG.
CIAO all
Milena and Adriana
:: Milena,Adriana February 27, 2004 04:03 PMWill,
As you said, "I've heard that reservists are just getting Dishonorable Discharges and a kick in the ass. That's what this little schmuck probably would have received, except..."
Maybe the Army wasn't so dumb after all. Maybe, someone realized that this turd would skate and wanted to make sure that the Army would treat this SERIOUSLY when it eventually caught up with him!
Here's hoping!
He will probab;y be president in 2020!@!#!
:: Keiser March 27, 2004 08:33 PMFind your www.ALL-FIORICET.COM here, 100% discrete!
:: click here June 14, 2004 05:58 PMOnce again we have orders. Orders are orders, as they say, and you can't deny that orders are your orders to do whatever they order you to do... are you annoyed with my little toying with words? Ok, here's the meat.
The orders tell us when we're leaving Iraq, where we're going in Kuwait, when we're leaving Kuwait and where we're going in CONUS. If I don't sound excited to see this on paper allow me to say FUCKIN' A JIM! I guess they didn't forget about us and our orders make no mention of relief, so if they're not here someone else is gonna have to get off their asses and do our jobs (yep, that's plural for a reason and nope, I'm still not gonna tell you). It's not that I don't care about the mission or that it keeps on working after I'm gone, well, um... ok ok I care, but it's time for somebody else to try this job and see if they like it.
Anyway, I had written up a big spiel on sarcasm and life in the Army but I'm just in too good a mood to rant right now. How about some local news instead? Ok.
Sgt. D (from Arizona) has been having a tough week. She was lighting a Yukon heater (a heater that burns mogas, not very efficient but very toasty) and burnt her eyebrows off. Not a pretty sight but it was pretty funny to watch. Her new name... sparky.
With this redeployment I've learned something interesting about government credit cards. Did you know that you have to take a class before you can be given one. No, I don't have one but can you imagine what that class would be like? "Alright class, to use your card at the store you need to swipe it through the slot. Now, a proper swiping motion is horizontal and smooth. Be sure that you have the magnetic strip, that's the black line on the bac