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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 back, inside the little slot..." My hair is falling out just thinking about it.
The Bulgarian Army (all 24 of them) were escorting a convoy up the road and saw some haji's on top of a bridge. They did NOT however see the two U.S. Army trucks on the bridge with them and jumped to the conclusion that there were terrorists about and opened fire. Nobody was hurt but as I understand it several underpants won't be coming home.
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
Well, sounds like the government in action. Hopefully you'll be getting the orders to come home shortly.
Stay Safe!
:: Theresa February 20, 2004 12:19 PMWoooo hooooo!! :) Will's coming home (it seems sooner than later anyway)! That's just FANTASTIC!
Once you're in town and have had a chance to spend all kinds of time with your family, I'd love to meet you.... you should have a "Thank God I'm Home!" party at a local bar where you can consume mass quantities of BEER! ;)
:: Brenda February 20, 2004 01:04 PMGod is answering our prayers!! God speed Will. I know you can't wait to get home and finally meet your nephew. Stay safe.
debby
:: debby February 20, 2004 01:04 PMI agree with Brenda... let's have a get-together and consume mass quantities of beer! I'm sure I speak for many who want to meet the infamous Will. And to thank him for keeping us apprised of every funny, and not so funny, detail of life in the middle east. Keep it up, Will. We'll see you soon!
Will,
It is so Great that you are finally getting to go home.
Thanks for all of the rants.
Stay safe.
Jan
:: Jan February 20, 2004 03:20 PMCongratulations on your orders! We can't wait to get all of you home safely.
You definitely should have some type of get together and drink lots of beer when you get back to Omaha. As one of your biggest web fans in the area, my hubby and I would love to buy beer for you!
:: SueinOmaha February 20, 2004 03:39 PMHey Will!
I've only commented once before, I think....but I've read every one of your posts with enthusiasm (SEE avid interest). ;o) Just wanted to let you know that I'm excited for you that those orders finally came in! HOOAH! God is good!
And I hope that after you're back safe and sound in the States, you'll still keep updating us with what's going on in your life! I know that I would miss your rants and ruminations if you decided stateside life wasn't interesting enough to write about. ;o)
Stay safe!
Hugs,
Courtney
SWEEEEEEEEEEEETTTT!! This sounds like an upcoming "pig in the ground, beer on ice" event!! And you certainly deserve it! We do that really well up here in Montana....HINT HINT....lol By the time you get done making the rounds, beers' gonna be the last thing you'll want to drink cuz ALL your fans wanna buy you several!!!!
Take care!!!
Hi Will,
I'm so glad to hear you finally got orders to come home! I'm so happy for you guys. Wow!!! That is so awesome! You must be on Cloud 9. I'm very excited for you. Let us all know when you hear more details that you can reveal to us.
I've been reading your blog for almost a year, and I cannot believe how quickly the time has gone by. Your writing has touched many, many people. We all laughed and sometimes cried with what you talked to us about. I think many of us feel like we're sitting next to you having a few beers when we read your posts. You have touched many hearts. When you get back home, I hope you start putting all of your posts together for your book. It's almost begging to be written. Like Courtney said above, I too hope you keep writing when you get back. You're a very gifted writer. Well, I need to wrap this up. I'm tearing up. God bless you all. Hang in there and stay safe.
I know I'm a mom and all, but it's about F*&^ING TIME!
PACK YOUR BAGS! Come home safe, come home soon, come home now.
Congraulations. Bring my son with you, please. Thanks for all you do...
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine February 20, 2004 10:00 PMJust have to agree with Katherine.
this is only the second time i've commented, but ...
I'm happy that you're happy!
hooah!
If I recall the time to worry is when people stop bitching, so you are ok. Interesting that all of your post's comments are from the fairer sex. Please note, I did not say weaker. I found the Yukon story interesting. Can you picture the person who said, "Ok, I got I idea we can put gas in this can and light it." Regrets to Sparky
Thanks for your protection. Hang in there the Marines are coming.
Glenn
Semper Fi
Congrats on the orders!!! I have been reading your letters for sometime now and am so happy for you. Can't wait to see that you are actualy home and able to meet that nehpew, they are so much fun!
Jessica
Girlfriend to a Army Reservist, just switched from Active Duty.
Happy, happy, joy, joy.
Rest assured there will be a big bash here in Omaha upon Will's return. I've been told I'll have to do some coordinating with his mom and sis though - I know they get first priority. As for the beer, seems our young hero's tolerance level has slipped a little over this past year so this could be fun :) Payback's a bitch Will............
Don't get shortimer's disease on us and keep your head and ass down! And that's an order!
Hey Will! That's great news! Thanks for sharing your rants with us over the last year, I loved readding your stuff.
You could probably find a bunch fans in every state. If you decided to take a national tour you would not need to get a hotel room anywhere. Put me on the list!
Good luck and Godspeed!
:: Jen February 21, 2004 08:40 PMHello Will,
you lament many but we notice that the girls don’t lack you there,….do we have lost something how ever? Trying and trying again to flirt in the end have you found the friendgirl?
We present you a smile, it makes you company and if you’ll have fear it’ll gives you courage why a smile is how a ray of sunlight at the morning: it illuminates the road and heats you the heart!!
Two devote friends
CIAO all
Milena and Adriana
Congratulations on your orders! We can't wait to get all of you home safely. Still keep your head down till you hit the Ole US!
:: CTYSON February 26, 2004 11:56 AMHello All,
Well I have returned to Kuwait, not because it's time to pack up and head home (but it sure does feel like it), no, because we needed to turn in some equipment. I'll be headed back up north very soon, but since I have a computer here and time to write, why not send a message home.
Kuwait is everything that I remembered. That being said I would tell you about the bureaucracy of life here in the rear, but I think that you can all imagine it for yourselves. Need help, ok try this. Imagine micromanagement incorporated with triple check inventory controls and a complete lack of initiative due to soldiers afraid to rock the boat.
It's not like I asked the guy to kill somebody, I just wanted him (the little bastard) to agree that if I have 18 pieces of fabric with different serial numbers on each one and all of those pieces of fabric came from a water bladder it would be safe to say that they were no longer serviceable. But NO, he had to look at each and every one of them... so screw you buddy, we'll come back later when you're not here and someone that understands common sense is around. Pablo (my guy in Kuwait that likes to describe this place as 'The Black Hole of Hell') did know an inside player here that bought some common sense to the PX and we found him the next day.
The funny part is that um... wait, hold on a sec, I'm sure there was a funny part... well. I guess there wasn't a funny part. Yep, now I remember the nicotine and alcohol cravings and the burning desire to punch that little rat in the face and I'm sure there was no funny part. Oh, yeah this is Kuwait.
The good part of Kuwait is the hotdog stand. I was never a huge hotdog fan before this trip, but once I had one I was hooked. I've eaten eight dogs so far and if the sandstorm ever dies down I'll go get two more. Maybe it's the mustard, but these things rule. The lemonade isn't bad either.
Oh, and the countdown is now at 35 days to 365 in theater. That's 5 weeks. One month and one week. We don't have redeployment orders, yet, or replacements, yet, but I'm told that they're only days away. Did you just hear a whistle?
I love you all,
Will
PS - Jake now weighs 15 pounds and is making noises like the babies on the Flintstones. My little godson is getting bigger and noisier by the day. Oh, and he sleeps with his arms over his head like he's signaling a touchdown.
:: Comments left behind ::
SGT,
Wait til that guy has Hummers, and lots of other equipment that has to be turned in with serial numbers on it. Maybe you should take him back up north with you so he can see what really goes on here and he wouldn't be such a putz.
Why are there so many of these people in the sandbox? How do you tell the enemy from the "enemy"?
Glad you're making rumblings that look like coming home. Bring my soldier with you.
Wonderful news about Jake. He IS signaling a touchdown--one for you and one for his life. Extra point included.
Get someone typing on those orders--pronto! Who do I call?
:: Katherine February 15, 2004 06:04 PMWell, Will, it's always nice to hear from you. I hope to see you in person one of these days real soon. I'll bet your first stop will be to see little Jake (who is not so little anymore, thank goodness). And, then, maybe the Outback in Omaha?? I'd even buy dinner!! We've all been cheering all you guys on. We sent boxes from the South Omaha Legion (my part-time job)around Christmas time. Bert from Omaha
:: Bert from Omaha February 15, 2004 06:19 PMWonderful to hear from you Will. Have been a little worried since it's been over 10 days. Was hoping that maybe you were on your way home.
35 and counting! I know you and the others can feel the tracks vibrating. Take care Will!
:: Ira February 15, 2004 06:24 PMHi Will,
It's great to hear from you again. 35 more days! Hopefully you'll be hearing real soon when you get to come home. It sounds like nothing has changed in Kuwait with the REMF's. Pretty sad. I'm glad you got the chance to eat some good hot dogs. The light at the end of the tunnel will soon surround all you guys. Hang in there and stay safe.
35 days? Well by the time you get settled at home, it'll be late spring up in Montana, so you need to come up and see it! And go to Moose's Saloon, and go around the lake, and and and....LOL tons-o-stuff to do, and no shortage of people to show you around! Take care!
:: Dianne February 15, 2004 07:35 PMWill...keep your eye on that light and your ears open for that whistle. It WILL come. Stay safe and know you are in many people's prayers...mine included.
A Marine's(who's finally home) Girlfriend
Mel
:: Mel February 15, 2004 08:53 PMEven without a funny part, you're still funny. Glad you're hanging on to your sense of humor. I hope you get home soon.
Truly,
A fan from Denver
You can tell Jake isn't living in NE cuz he wouldn't know HOW to signal a touchdown :)
Big news was no snow this weekend and we may get above freezing later this week.
Glad life in Kuwait hasn't changed. At least you've got hot dogs (boy, you do need to get home if hot dogs are looking good).
Have the countdown going.....
Great to hear from you! Glad to hear things are looking up for you, I bet little Jake is going to be spoiled rotten pretty soon!
:: Stacy February 17, 2004 12:59 AMHi Will, 35 and a wake up! Way to go...
just watch out for anal defelade. the last month is when you have to be the most dilligent. Thanks for the up date.
Good to hear from you. And here's hoping that 35 days flies by for y'all. You'll be training your poor replacements before you know it.
Stay safe. We want all our soldiers to get home safe and sound.
:: SueinOmaha February 17, 2004 10:12 AMAlways good to get the news from our US Presence in the Middle East.
Any poop on the likely scenario when we turn the joint over to the Iraqi Provisional Govt. (sceduled for) this summer?
Don't forget to write when you get back stateside.
Your Fellow Blogger,
Dot Tom
:: Tom February 17, 2004 10:47 AMSo glad to hear about the 35 days! Please stay safe until then and wish I could be there to welcome you home.
:: Mels February 17, 2004 11:18 AMHey Will! It's so hard to believe it's been almost a year!! For us, it seems like yesterday that you were getting ready to go...I find it truly amazing and should be very flattering to you, that you have and have had such a 'following' for a year now! I know that I don't only speak for myself when I say I hope you write us and continue to keep us updated once you've arrived home safely!
Such great news about Jake...they grow up so fast!!
Take care Will and stay safe....you are a short timer now!!
Much love from Seattle!
:: Sharon February 17, 2004 11:50 AMHere's hoping a whistle means a train HOME and not one incoming on the track THERE.
I usually write more, but being in the midst of illness, I don't feel very well, but wanted to catch up with ya'll. A year? Wow time flies when ....uhmm, never mind.
Hopfully you'll be dealing with bastards in the US soon, instead of bastards overseas. Big difference, eh?
Godspeed,
Judi
Great to hear that things are coming to an end for all you soldiers including my sister. 35 Days and I will help witht he count down since I started about 10 months ago. Stay strong keep your head up nice sense of humor is always great at times. Nice to hear that. Hang in there. You are all in our prayers.
:: Becky Mokros February 17, 2004 08:49 PMWill,
Someone forgot about asking a Fort Lewis Soldier about a grenade...this grenade just happened to be in the car(glovebox) the wife was driving as she went across the Canadian border...yep the glovebox was looked at ,,the border closed at Blaine...I think that Soldier got in trouble...do ya think?
Hello Will,
we would like to write much, but also this once we have translated but we don't know nothing (the situation is a little tragic,true?)ahahahah.We wait your next letter and we hope go better.
We glad the little Jake grows well and he is making noises.
A greeting to you and your soldiers by two italian girls
Adriana and Milena CIAO
Will,
Don't let the Hadji's carry your bags at the airport in Kuwait because they will try to charge you from $5.00 to $20.00. One told me $20.00 and I about had a heart attack! I gave him $10 because that was my smallest bill and he said mo' money mo' money. Keep up the good work and make it home safe. I'm glad to have served with you and glad to have found your minutes.
Thanks for great info
:: Smoking center May 18, 2004 12:51 PMOpen your mind - http://eldorado.com.ua
:: Open your mind - http://eldorado.com.ua May 19, 2004 03:54 AMWarning! Very hot news!!!! Media news report http://newsnewsmedia.com
:: Warning! Very hot news!!!! Media news report http://newsnewsmedia.com June 27, 2004 10:49 PMHello All,
That light just got a little bit brighter and I've checked to make sure that I'm not on an Acme Rocket Sled so I think that's good news. In other good news we got some stuff this week - Cool stuff that made me smile.
SAPI Plates. Small Arms Protective Inserts (see the extra armor that actually STOPS bullets from going thru your chest) have arrived and been issued to all the troops. I don't know how we made it these last months without them, but I am glad to have them now. Did I mention that our 365-day mark is less than 50 days away? Somehow I'm not surprised that we get them now. At least we haven't needed them.
Coins are cool. Not the nickels and quarters that you lucky civilians use, but the Army type that commanders and SMAJ's hand out to the troops. You know, I've never received one before and always kinda thought it'd be cool to have one, and now I do. Thanks to the folks at Anheuser-Busch I finally have an Army-Type Coin. Yep, the makers of the King of Beers coined me and every other troop in theater and have won (or bought) a lifetime friend. Ok, so the King and I have been friends for years but now I have proof that our friendship goes both ways (ok, I know that it's probably a marketing ploy to win over customers and I'm being used like a pawn, but it might get me a free beer now and then and nobody from Miller bothered to say thanks so I'm willing to be played). You might think it's a little sad that my only Army coin came from a brewery but I'm happy to say that I love beer and I serve the Army.
Another cool thing I got this week is 6 days without rain. I know that I'm jinxing it but I don't care (actually a little would be nice to keep the dust down).
Oh, and it's getting a little warmer here. It's not actually cold at night, just a bit chilly unlike home where Omaha had 21 inches of snow dropped on it. Glad I didn't have to shovel.
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
It's sounds like Christmas in February. Merry February. Happy lights that keep getting brighter, coins that salute your hard work, and plates that you never need use.
Come home soon soldier. We miss you and those with you.
Send the rain here to California, I just bought a new umbrella.
Thanks again for all you do for us.
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine February 5, 2004 01:28 AMUse those plates Will! Then come home safe and get coined! My man is in country now and as you and your family knows, a year seems like forever when a loved one is in a dangerous place.
Speaking of weather - got stuck in an ICE storm at Bragg a couple of weeks ago - the whole base practically shut down - needless to say - I hurried back south as soon as some of the ice cleared. I don't know how people live in the north!
Take care Will - head down - plates close - gun handy.
Not sure I understand about the coin, but I think it's great that Anheuser-Busch got them to y'all. Is it something like a mission patch for NASA??
:: Karen Tynes February 5, 2004 07:06 AMHere's an example of an army coin, along with an article about them...http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/cepa/pubs/oct02/story15.htm
Great to hear from you Will,
Sounds like you got some really cool stuff.
Hopefully you will be home soon.
Take care.
We all are so proud of you guy's and gal's.
Jan
:: Jan February 5, 2004 10:52 AMAlways great to hear you are well Will! Here's hoping that the light continues to brighten and you see home real soon! If you are ever in Iowa look me up, I will buy you a Bud! Thank-you to all you guys and gals who lay it on the line every day. We appreciate and admire you all!
:: Annette February 5, 2004 11:22 AMI've enjoyed your postings. In general I'm not too sympathetic to our troops being in Iraq, I feel we were lied to by the commander in chief. I'd like to support our troops by getting them out of the line of fire.
It seems sad to me that after nearly a year, you're just *now* being issued proper protective gear, and are reporting pleasure in receiving some acknowledgement from a *beer* company. Is it just me or has this president got his priorities screwed up?
:: Frank Patton February 5, 2004 11:30 AMSounds like good news all around. Just need to keep safe still! No getting a big head and letting up. The light is not really on till you hit US soil. Just sorry to hear your just getting some good equipment. At least you can pass it down to the new troops cominging. My girlfreinds husband will be coming in June, so now I'll have another to worry about. I do worry about all the guys but when it's some one you know or known it harder.
>>Omaha had 21 inches of snow dropped on it. Glad I didn't have to shovel. I don't know about that commet thing I rather have you shoveling snow and getting a nice cup of hot coco from mom for a reward.
Take care!
Soooo, your point is that you are taking us all out for free drinks when you get home? That would be so nice of you - thank you and I will hold you to it! Let the countdown begin! Can't wait until everyone is home. Glad to hear you got your armor in a timely manner - normally don't you get that kind of thing after you get back to the states, right?!
Evans
:: Evans February 5, 2004 01:59 PMWill-
I just learned about your site last week - once I started reading I couldn't stop. I, too, am a graduate of USD(Dec'97) and have a good idea that your appreciation for beer may have stemmed from a few visits to Carey's, Pressbox, or maybe Louie's. You must have payed attention in the classes of Sally Hansen, the Gatzkes, and other adored English professors - you have an excellent talent for writing. Your ranting completely cracks me up as I have a habit of doing the same over the smallest, yet most irritating, thing. Keep your spirits up...a good friend is in Kuwait and, hopefully, you are booked on the same train as he seems to see some light as well.
I look forward to your book! Sarah
50 days, 50 days....I'm starting to count so don't stop me now! But really we're already at 365 since you've been gone from our lovely city. That's a lot of beers you have missed.
Just saw in the paper tonight where the NE Nat'l Guard just got their armor too. Must be a Midwest thing.
Speaking of the Midwest - got another 5-6 on top of that 21. Only a few more until we hit a record. You would be cursing with all the shoveling you would be doing and you can bet your sweet ass Sally wouldn't have any cocoa waiting for you when you were done!
Please continue to keep safe and do not feel the need to go try out your new SAPI Plates!
Hi Will. Glad to hear that your light is getting brighter. My son is headed back your way today after his 2-week R&R trip. Sad to see him go. He's got about 60 days left.
When you get back home to Omaha, I'd be more than thrilled to be able to buy you and your buddies beer. I'd actually consider it an honor.
By the way, Omaha got 6 more inches of snow last night and today (on top of the 21").
Take care. God bless our soldiers!
:: SueinOmaha February 6, 2004 12:42 PMHi Will,
New reader here (and new soldier). I saw a link for this site from SGT Hook's site. Glad to see it's getting better for ya'll. Stay safe. Lookin' forward to next update ;)
glad we've got all of our gear before heading over, you're not part of the of the great switch-a-roo that's going on in the near future? I am, sigh!
:: Sean February 7, 2004 03:27 PMHello Will,
we are glad to know that you have got the armor more sure,so it is passed 365 days we are happy,finally it is started the countdown less 50,49,48,47,X,X,X,X,X,X,X... Courage in a little while it is all finished,return to home yuo don't forget for great party that you will do your return,you drink a beer for us also and you enjoy really this moment very wish.
We have already wrotten (read and translate):
-buon giorno simpatico Will
-come stai?
-io sto bene
-che piacere vederti
-mi chiamo.........
-sei un ragazzo carino
-vuoi uscire con noi?
-a che ora ci vediamo?
-andiamo al cinema
-cosa vuoi?
-io prendo una birra
-e tu?
-ciao
.....Ops you enjoy to write the words that we don't find on the dictionary,true?
We hope that you are more capable 0f us with translation....Good amusement!!!!
If you are forgot we remember you:"do you have STOP smoke?!?!
Take always care,to nice friends to a nice friend.
Ciao Adriana and Milena
Hello Will,
Ops...we have forgot this sentence (we have thought nice try of italian with the sentences)ahahahahah,it must be wrote up "we have already wrotten"....Adriana that is pernickety, she wanted write again all but Milena has thought give to you the duty to put the sentence missing.Thanks
Milena and Adriana
Hi Will,
I'm glad to hear the light is getting a little bigger, and isn't likely a train. 50 more days! Regarding the SAPI plates - better late than never, I guess. It seems that's typical for the way things happen in the military. At least you're not getting dumped with several feet of snow. We've gotten about 2 feet in the last 2 weeks up here in the frozen tundra. When it stops snowing, temps plunge to about -10 (without the wind chill). Hopefully, the weather stays nice there for awhile. Glad to hear you got a coin. Some of those are neat. I have a command coin from my reserve center. I hope time goes fast for all of you, and you're able to give a definite date when you get to come home. Hang in there and stay safe.
Happy Valentine's Day to you and all the other guys!! Hope the count down has begun for you!! Take Care!
:: Chris February 11, 2004 10:51 AMIf you get a bit away from the usual Army bars, I imagine you might not have to worry about paying for beer when you return for a good while...coin or no coin! :)
I know I haven't let a soldier pay for a beer while I was in the same bar.
Thanks for completing a job that we weren't allowed to finish!
Stay alert, Stay Alive!
Keith
Desert Storm Vet
Will -
Thanks for making Friday the 13th not such a bad day afterall.
Have a Happy Valentine's Day - like it wouldn't suck any worse if you were home :)
Shell
P.S. Meatballs - the hot dog scene I couldn't think of.
Just wanted to say thanks for all you're doing for all of us. My husband collects Marine Challenge coins. You can find some nice ones on E-bay if you wanted more.
:: Kat February 14, 2004 07:11 PMBeen wracking my brain for a project my son and I could do to better things for our troops and/or the children in Iraq. Anyone have any realistic ideas? Email me if so....please!
Will...what is needed by the troops and/or the children of Iraq, that hasn't already been addressed? Something an 8 yr old could organize with the help of me....maybe get schools involved, or the neighborhood? Any suggestions...anyone?
Will's Mom....do YOU have any ideas?
Hugs and Godspeed, d
Judi
:: Judi Eckes February 17, 2004 06:39 PMHello All,
A couple days ago I had the opportunity to do something good for some Iraqi kids, but it was more for me and what I took away from the experience was more than I bargained. One of my troops has a brother who is working toward becoming an Eagle Scout, and as a project he collected school supplies for Iraqi kids in An Nasiriyah and sent them over. Well, my trooper went on leave before all of the packages arrived and he asked if Idd help out and take the last load of them into town for him. No problem says I, I like kids.
It was a simple plan. Load up the boxes, grab an interpreter and head into town with a couple troops (max out ammo, of course), hit the school, hand out the stuff, snap some pictures and get out of Dodge. "Keep It Simple, Stupid" is an Army motto that works in huge ways and generally works for me.
Intel in this area said that Iraqi's are still friendly toward American troops and from what I've seen on duty I'd agree, but never walk into anything with your eyes closed. Extra ammo for all and a reminder that bad things happen here.
Driving into the city it looked from a distance like any other. Buildings and roads and all that, but as I got closer it really began to sink in. Iraq is a third world country. Oh, you all might know that already but I was holding on to hope that there would be some similarity between Iraq and Kuwait (that and the pictures in Stars and Stripes don't show the bad side of Baghdad). The only thing similar from Kuwait was the architecture and the color of the people's skin.
There was standing water on the streets and chaos abounded. Stop signs were ignored and the only traffic light I saw blinked green in all four directions as beaten up late models of everything rolled along the streets. The buildings were worn from neglect, war and one of the most inhospitable environments on the planet. People shuffled alongside the roads on what sidewalks were available and around the puddles (see ponds) of water left from a sewer clogged with garbage and Saddam Hussein's neglect. The smell was subtle due to a favorable wind, but it hinted at the putrid decay of a dying city.
The drive was uneventful considering the traffic conditions. It seems like people just went whatever direction on any street that they wanted, and when in Rome... so I joined the locals as part of the problem, but my hummer (see Army for 4 wheel drive Truck, a nod and a wink to my fine Italian readers) had right of way as the largest vehicle on the road.
As I pulled up to the school I saw a tremendous amount of garbage floating in the street and searched my memory for another place as filthy. In all my travels (which are not that extensive really) I have never seen anyplace quite this bad. It seems like all the residents just chuck their refuse out their windows and onto the street and pretend it's not there. The worst was the diapers. There is a five-foot wall around the school, and just outside it (where I parked) there was a pile of used and especially rank diapers. The temperature was around 50 degrees but I can only imagine how bad it will be when the temperature hits the 120's. I don't know how anyone can stand to live like that; I can only imagine that a complete loss of self respect could drive someone to live in such squalor.
The kids were beyond cute. They were captivating with saucer eyes and quiet little voices. Some knew hellos and goodbyes in English and all smiled as we handed out crayons and t-shirts; hearts melting as we wished we could do more for them. The hard part was how they begged. When we were trying to leave they swarmed the truck and begged for ANYTHING and few showed the slightest amount of pride by holding their tongues. I guess when you've got nothing you've got nothing to lose and pride can be a luxury, but it didn't sit well with me. If I heard Jake beg like that, well, I don't know what I'd do.
We returned to base without incident and what started out as a trip to make me feel good about being in Iraq had twisted into something far different. I DID feel good about helping out the kids, but I realized that this country needed a lot more help than I realized. The culture here is far different than I realized. These people live in garbage and don't bother to even throw it into a barrel and burn it. Content to let it sit in the street and fester, no one has had the initiative to start their own garbage hauling business. Then again, why would you pay someone to haul your garbage away when it sits just fine on the road?
If this is how they're content to live, I don't know if we can help these people. Democracy depends on the individuals (not all of them, you only need a few leaders to get it done) taking a personal interest in the lives of the populace, and it seems like nobody here cares. I hope I'm wrong on this.
I love you all,
Will
PS - that light seems stalled out and unmoving... sound familiar?
:: Comments left behind ::
Hi Will;
It's always good to get a posting from you. I worry when you haven't written for awhile.
I will be the first to admit that I don't know a whole heck of a lot about other cultures; but, I think some cultures are not taught..hey lets burn that trash or pick it up. This is how they grew up and they don't realize there is anything other than a lifestyle like this.
I just hope you realize how many people that pray for you and your men daily, fly our flags, because men like you make it possible, and have pride in our soldiers. You guys are the best.
debby
:: debby January 29, 2004 11:35 AMAs Debby said above, I don't know that much about what's REALLY going on over there. Even you soldiers only have a partial view since you cannot fraternize closely enough with the populace to get to the bottom line. I have a gut feeling, though, that most of those people definitely do NOT want to live like that, and that compassion is a necessity or violence will never end. One theory I have about the example you brought up is that it's quite possible that many have thought of the very ideas you are talking about, but maybe they're not allowed to burn for some reason, maybe they are scared to try in case they get into trouble. Maybe someone would like to start a refuse-hauling business, but doesn't have the money, or because of the bureacracy or lack thereof, redtape or whatever, it's not getting done.
:: Trish January 29, 2004 11:59 AMI'm new to your postings but I really enjoy them. I've read all your past postings and feel as though I'm caught up. I do have to say my husband is in Iraq at cedar II. I get a better understanding of life out side the camp from reading your eye opening postings. I wish you well and all service members a safe and fast trip home. Thank you and I will keep praying for some peace in Iraq. Please don't get discouraged your there to do your job not save the world. I feel that the army is doing a great job to improve the lives of a lot of people keep up the good work. I'm sure your rotation will come soon. untill next time keep you head high and take care. Andrea
:: Andrea January 29, 2004 12:00 PMIt's very hard to help others who don't wish to help themselves. But, like Debby said, if they haven't known any other way...
Those kids need some one to look up to and our troops who hold pride in themselves and their country are a good start.
I like to stick to the thought that we are there to help these people, we will make a difference in their lives. We might not see it tomorrow, but things will improve.
Thank you for your firsthand views, I personally appreciate knowing you are there Will, and your thoughts are written for all eyes to read and comprehend.
Hi! My name is Nicole and I am writing from Canada. I stumbled across your blog today and I'm glad that I did. I am finding it intriquing to read and I appreciate that you are writing from overseas. Technology has certainly improved since WW1 when people would wait weeks for a telegram about how the war is progressing. This is just amazing.
In school the other day we learnt of the KISS concept and I thought it was neat see that you use it as part of your army motto!
Take care out there. I will pray for you.
:: Nicole January 29, 2004 01:41 PMGood piece of descriptive & reflective writing. Keep hitting the keyboard.
:: Tom January 29, 2004 07:45 PMThank you for writing about your experiences. I try to read as many blogs as I can from those in Iraq. Whether Iraqi or American. My uncle is over there and he will be coming back about the same time my brother will head out. And eventually I will go there to. Good luck to you and ever over there!
For everyone readin this blog, there is an initiative called Operation Give ( OperationGive.org ) that is making a big difference getting clothes, toys, and school supplies for Iraqi children. If you have a few extra bucks, send it their way.
Jose
:: Jose January 29, 2004 07:57 PMWow! Will I can totally understand your point when it comes to the level of cleanliness over there. I work with Iraqi foreign language speakers, and I have also noticed a complete lackof cleanliness here as well. The females leave their feminine waste all over the porta potties (there's a hole -use it-duh). The water they use to cleanse themselves (see nether regions) before prayer is left all over the stool, with a complete disregard for the next individual. If there are bags of garbage and they have an item to throw away I have watched them just throw it down next to the bags instead of placing the garbage inside. IMO- you're beyond hope if you can't get the fundamentals.
:: Bianca January 29, 2004 08:39 PMI hate to say this, but welcome to the third world. These are the type of people that we tried to help in Somalia, South America, Central America, Asia, Africa and pretty much every place we've worked to bring them a better way of life. Just as you can't comprehend letting your garbage pile up in the street, they can't imagine giving it a passing thought. If you grow up smelling shit, smelling roses is something new to you. If you grow up smelling roses, smelling shit is something new to you. They don't see through your eyes and you don't see through theirs. It's like back in the fifties when t.v. first came out and kids would try and get their parents to buy one. They would say "Why? The radio works fine and gives us what we need." It will take a long time before they appreciate the benefits you offer. Until they do, they will always say "Why? This works fine the way it is." There are still older people who won't even consider getting a computer. YOU know and I know and anyone reading this knows what a miracle the internet is but there are those who have never experienced it and won't miss it until they do. This is one of the real fights for LIBERTY and FREEDOM. Hurts don't it.
:: CaptainScarecrow January 29, 2004 08:54 PMLook's like I'm part of the relief crew heading over there at some soon unknown date. I've enjoyed your blog for months and pray for you safe return. The bloggers over there have left some big shoes to fill, hopefully we're up to the task.
:: Sean January 30, 2004 01:52 AMHi Will,
You don't have to go as far as you have to find the same thing right here in the good ole USA. Several years ago, I went completely insane and work as a home health nurse for a local pediatric hospital. I lasted 2 years.( what was I thinking??)
In "THE PROJECTS", some of the homes had roaches so thick I had to slap them off my hands in order to put my sterile gloves on. We kept sterile dressings and IV supplies in Tupperware containers, hoping the mutant bugs didn't know how to open lids. Some of the houses smelled so bad of urine and filth, that we had to suck on a Halls throat lozengers to keep from gagging on the smell. I'm sure my patients thought their nurse had a constant "cold". I've stepped over sleeping adult bodies to get to the infant being cared for by the 5 yr old. I've seen 3 and 4 yr olds panhandleing in the streets because their mom sold their WICK food for crack.
Why do people live this way? Simply because they didn't know any better and had poor role models and poor training at home. They haven't had hygeine class in PE, been taught about germs in biology and are more concerned about how they are going to feed themselves and family for today. Tomorrow is too much to consider.
We are a blessed people and nation, and you have been blessed with a rare opportunity to step outside of yourself and see life from a different reality. The change will come, one child, one gift, one visit at a time.
Stay safe,
Williams family
:: Williams Family January 30, 2004 04:44 AMHaven't replied in awhile but I do continue to enjoy your posts Will.
As far as helping, it is true to a certain extent that you can't help those that don't want to be helped. But, you could be dealing with people who have just never known any other way.
You can bet that those kids will never forget what you did and all that it will take is a few of them carrying that as they grow. They will be the ones to push for change and every little thing anyone can do to incourage them to develop a healthy sense of self and a decent intellect, will bring about change in more ways than you can imagine!
Take care.
:: Kathy January 30, 2004 11:04 AMI have lived in third world countries and marveled at the contrasts between the beauty of the architecture, the cultural ceremonies, the art veersus the squalor and decay of the day to day life. It is hard for us to comprehend how such polar opposites can exist in the same frame. We should be thankful that we have the luxury of the education, the convenieces of the modern world, the things we take for granted. It is this background that allows us to have the perspective we do, that allows us to look upon such conditions with contempt. Some of the folks on here speak of not being able to help those who don't want to help themselves. These people need to take a step back and imagine for a minute if you were in a position like these citizens in Iraq. Imagine being beaten, being killed, living in fear if you took the initiative to make a change. If you spoke up for yourself you were beaten down, mentally and physically,. Imagine being the child of parents who lived their entire lives with the fear of having a freedom of thought that we take so much for granted here in the United States. We fight for the right to speak freely, to think. Most of these people have never known the feeling of being encouraged to be creative, free thinking, change makers. They have been raised in an environment of terrorism, not the terrorism we think of like Sept 11. But the terrorism brought about by leaders who manipulate, brainwash, or beat you into submission. When you have nothing, no pride, no strength, no control over your own lives, do you think you would have time to care about where you garbage goes? We, as Americans, as soldiers, as human beings, need to look at the root cause and work from there. It took decades for that city to fall to ruin, you can see the glory of its past in the architecture. It used to be a beautiful thriving city, now through years of abuse of its people, it has fallen to despair. We have to go into these places and nuture the roots, find the common fertile ground, and cultivate. We shold never try to force the indigenous peoples of another antion to follow our ideals, live by our rules. We should nuture what is positive from their own cultures and teach them how new practices will better them and their civilization. That is where our modern adn "civilized" views of personal hygiene, environmentalism, public health, etc can be introduced.
:: selina January 30, 2004 11:16 AMHello Will,
This is coming to you from Braden's, "Yo Mama" Wayment.
After reading your account, the lump in my throat once again turned to tears, which has happened so often since Braden left home on 03-03-03 to augment the 323rd from his unit here in Utah. My younger, son, Brant (the soon-to-be Eagle Scout) originally planned a project to raise and level headstones in the Veteran's section of the Salt Lake City cemetery, which are badly in need of attention. (Utter shame that these veterans have been neglected in this way, isn't it?) B & B's grandparents (my parents) are both veterans of WWII and have honored resting places in the Veteran's cemetery located at Camp Williams, about 20 miles south of SLC and this cemetery is kept in wonderful shape, with the headstones all lined up, neat and even.
But then B1 (Braden) calls home and talks to B2 (Brant) and says, Hey! Can you change your project and do something to help the kids in Iraq?! You see, don't tell him I told you, but my sons have always had a special place in their hearts and souls for children. Especially those that aren't as fortunate as the rest of us.
At first B1 wanted B2 to collect for an orphanage and was helping him coordinate it. Then the holy month of Ramadan arrived and, as you know, the 323rd was busier than ever and the threat level high, so B1 was too 'occupied' with that whole 'war thing' to further the project. (Go figure!) Then, when things cooled off, he said that the Red Cross had stepped in and was helping the orphanages but that the schools were very much in need. So, once again, B2 switched gears to focus on the needs of a school.
You wouldn't believe the support Brant received from friends and neighbors! The donations just piled up! There was paper, pencils, pens, crayons, folders, scissors, sharpeners and everything else you could imagine. There were clothes, backpacks and bags. And one family must have cleaned off a shelf at Target, buying all sorts of soccer, rubber and other types of balls, along with air pumps. They brought their two little boys with them when they dropped them off and the boys showed us what their favorite balls were that they wanted the Iraqi children to play with.
When we finished boxing and mailing everything, there were 14 boxes that totaled 234 pounds! Thankfully we had over $500 in donations to pay for shipping. And guess what?! We've received even more supplies after our cut off date and are awaiting word from Braden for where we can continue to send these things.
Will, your help, along with the other soldiers, in helping Braden bring Brant's Eagle Scout project to fruition has been very much appreciated. We'll be holding his Court of Honor some time after Braden arrives home and I want you all to know that you're invited. Come! Help us celebrate a great Eagle project and the safe return of the soldiers of the 323rd!
May God bless and bring each and every one of you home safely and soon.
Jo Wayment, AKA: "Yo Mama" Wayment
:: Jo Wayment January 30, 2004 03:31 PMwhat a powerful entry. not really sure i even have the words to say what i'm thinking. keep making us all remember why we are so lucky to be where we are.
:: JrzyGyrl January 31, 2004 10:37 AM I know, if that had been me, going into that city of 'offal', I would have promptly gotten out and immediately started cleaning. started giving orders, pointing out things to move, directing people, children, anyone around, and set to work, intent on cleaning up. if it attracted attention, I'd ask people watching if they had any useable tools-shovels? rakes? wagons? barrels? plastic bags? gloves? bleach? anything they could go get and bring to the effort. spread the word far and wide thru the town, that the business of the day was to clean up the place. everybody join in!
pick a suitable spot to bring and burn the trash. dig out those clogged sewers, and maybe gutters or trenches, to rerout the water runoff, so the ponds don't form. have an interpreter along to translate everything you say ,so the people 'get it'. make a religious speech to the crowd, that as a person is to ritually clean themselves before each prayer time, 5 times a day, so should they look around them, wherever they are, when they hear the call to prayer, and clean up their town before prayer, 5 times a day. remind them that the first cleanup will be huge, lifting up years of offensive stench, but once the first cleansing is complete, if they religiously make sure to clean up their surroundings, as well as themselves, before approaching God, that it will never be like this again. with every person aware and doing it, their town will be as beuatiful as the Tomb of the Prophet's Son.
In my speech, I would describe the idea of a town cleanup corps, maybe kids, maybe young people, maybe old people, the religious, or adults wanting to set an example. Speak of a town coming to agreement, to drastically show the world how different the people and the nation is determined to be, with the monstrosity of Saddam finally off their spirit.
I would seek out the civil affairs officer nearest my unit and put this to them. I would ask to contact the army corps of engineers, the seabees, the peace corps back home, to come there and do what they do so well.
I would teach the people about recycling-knowing to separate their trash into different materials, and make them understand that there is MONEY to be had! for collecting up tons of paper, plastic, glass, aluminum!!! yes!!! i would teach them about organic vegetable trash going into a small compost heap, ultimately to be brought to the local, larger heap, to make fertile soil to plant things in.
years ago in america, no one thought about their littering. they tossed or dropped their discards mindlessly, wherever they were no longer interested in it. i remember the landscape:rusting beer cans, broken bottles, gum wrappers, dumping anywhere... it took Earth Day 1970 to wake people up. It took decades more to get people to recycle. as the williams family reports, people still haven't gotten the message. but you don't quit. you show them. make it a habit.make it the new way.
make sure you impress this on your replacements when the new guys rotate in, so they can carry on behind you, when you leave. get something started, like cheif wiggles did with operation give. this is more of what we came to give the iraqis. we CAN change the world. if it bothers you deeply and stays with you, get up, and start doing something to change it. light a fire under somebody. at least light a fire under the trash! show the locals what the army does, with its trash, out in the hinterlands! find out who the leaders are, the local respected figures everyone will listen to and heed. kids will learn anything. make it a game, a ritual, a habit. ask your troops back in camp if it bothers them, and if they want to do something about it. ask your superiors if you could all do something, first to show, and then to teach, to lead, and get everyone into it.
Since when do you like kids? :)
I'm sure this little side trip was a big eye-opener, if not just a bit unnverving. I can't even imagine it. Things I experienced on some of my trips just can't even compare to this. And two thumbs up to B1 and B2 for doing what they could to help out.
SuperBowl Sunday here (Pats are up at the half). Yeah, I'm home cuz there's more snow. We are looking for 8-10 inches by the time tomorrow rolls around. Oh joy.
Will, that light has better just be stalled cuz if it goes out, I'm gonna be giving someone a piece of my mind!
:: Shell February 1, 2004 07:35 PMIf you read Riverbend's blog you would know that basic services in Iraq (particularly electricity and water) are terrible. Only 60% of the population has access to drinking water (http://www.defenselink.mil/la/ppt/pp_pres_1_26_04.ppt). What makes you think that the garbage removal service works any better than the other services? Any town in the USA would look exactly the same if all the utilities shut down.
People live like that because they have no choice, not because they want to.
:: James February 2, 2004 10:58 PMHello likeable Will ;-)
Thanks for have told us (my fine Italian readers),well,we swallow very willingly thiis compliment and considering that year is begun,of the point of view affective so so maybe Love is trowing his arrows of the goes wrong in direction....and Adriana smile for Milena ahahahah...
Receive this compliment by you is very sweet for us.
9th lesson:
Hello?,Pronto?-How are you?,Come stai?-I’m fine,Sto bene-And you?,Etu?-Lovely meet you,Piacere di vederti.
A greeting by nice italian girls
Milena and Adriana CIAO
Dear Will,
First off, I would like to say I once worked in a cattle feed lot were I used to spend half of my time hauling manure and slopping around in poop half way up to my knees. But your Jan. 29 post, YUK!!!
I would like to think that you just had coincidentally driven through the crummy section of town on the way to deliver your school supplies in Nasiriyah; however, I often see rubble and trash lying around all over in pictures I see in the news about Iraq. Your commenters above strike me as being a little too charitable and optimistic (maybe naive and unrealistic) in their excuses for the Iraqi peoples' squalor. Not know any better?!! There is a monumental disconnect here. They do their purification rituals as Bianca mentions (which I suppose involves bathing) before prayers and then walk through the sewer to get to their house of worship. They think they can't eat perfecly good Iowa corn-fed pork (I suppose because they think hogs are dirty rather than because of the possibility of contracting trichinosis) and then they live like hogs themselves. And, by the way, hogs happen to be the only common farm animal that will housebreak. Remember the Veitnamese pot-bellied pigs that were a fad pet several years ago? Hogs, if given a choice, will do their business in just one spot in the pen. If you farrow your sows in crates, you let them out morning and night and they will wait and go potty then and their bedding area stays clean. The Iraquis in Nasiriyah can't seem even to do that. Even if nobody cares what the place looks and smells like, anybody with half a brain should have some inkling of the health consequences of living is such filth. I used to think, after hearing about the high unemployment in Iraq, 'What better thing for all these man with nothing to do than to go out and pick up trash and beautify their cities. They won't make any money doing that, but neither are they making any mony sitting on their fannies and complaining.' Stupid me,
I sincerely wish, Debby, Trish, Mary Captain Scarecrow, Williams Family, Selina, Janet, that I could wave my magic wand, drop you in the middle of Nasiriyah and let you have at it. Keep in mind the old adage about teaching a person to fish vs. giving him a fish. It is good to give school supplies to the kids, but will it really make a difference overall? I hope so, but don't count on it.
Will, I really appreciate all the dirty work you guys are doing over there so the rest of us can live safely here at home in the best country in the world.
:: South Dakota February 4, 2004 09:38 PMSouth Dakota.
Once upon a time, a long time ago, I lived in filth and squlaor. I lived with fear, violence, and terror. I lived without the strength or ability to speak for myself for fear of retribution, physical and verbal.
Someone stronger, someone more enlightened, saw somethign worth saving. That someone taught me to fish once and I am fishing well today. I feel it is only right that I share that knowledge.
When we shelter ourselves from the rest of the world and write off other human beings as unsaveable, we become uncivilized.
Hi Will,
Wow, I had no idea that things were that bad. I was so sad after reading your post. I too feel very pessimistic when I hear things like this. These people need to take some pride. It sounds like there is little to no hope in most parts of Iraq. All the kings horses and all the kings men won't be able to put Iraq back together with things like this going on in most places. Those poor little kids. That's is what is really sad. These children are growing up in total squalor, with no hope from their families, and no organization of anything. I sincerely hope that things get better over there, but like you said, it's difficult to be optimistic. I guess we just have to keep trying. Will, I hope the light at the end of the tunnel is growing, and becoming more warm as time goes by. You are not forgotten. Hang in there and stay safe.
Top 'o the mornin to ye Willie me lad.
Faith and Begorra, in all my sixty odd years nere have I seen or heard such as the tale yer tellin.
When I was a wee one there lived in the neighborhood a family of little means who did throw trash all about their yard. Yet, many a well kept house with nary a mite of trash to be seen would they have noted as they passed by on their way to town to buy beer. In my youth I once helped friends to get some goods they had bought of two brothers who lived in a very dirty house. Afterward the friend, who knew the family well, did comment "Their mother was such a good housekeeper. Its turning in her grave right now she'd be, could she but see her house as tis now."
Once grown, I meself did once work for a man who neither laundered nor bathed. He did spit on the floor in the house, made water off the front doorstep, threw his auld tin cans in a box in the midst of the kitchen, and his bed linens were completely black with the dirt. Tis God's truth I'm tellin ye. My sister's wee terrier had cleaner bed than he. Whilst his childhood home may have been lacking in sanitation, yet ne'er could he have lived like that when he served in the army in WWII. The family he lived with as a young hired man were were good clean people too. And poor, stupid, lazy,and underpriviledged he was not. In fact, a right successful, self made man was he.
So all these folk had chosen to live as they did, though they had surely seen a better way, or even once had lived better themselves. The man I worked for, he'd lived dirty and he'd lived clean, and tis dirty he'd chosen to be. I can't be speaking for the citizenry of Nasiriyah, but methinks there be more to this living in filth and squalor than merely not knowin better. Faith and begorra! what this world be commin to 'tis beyond the ken of an old dog like me. May the luck o' the Irish be with ye and yer mateys
:: auld dog February 10, 2004 08:50 PMNorth Dakota - Go back 150 years and you find spring water plumbing hooked up to cesspools in London. Don't believe me? Read http://www.ph.ucla.edu/epi/snow/snowbook.html .
It's an account of how a scientist, John Snow, figured out how cholera was being spread and what he had to do to convince people that living in, and near, shit wasn't very good for them. Until the British conquered India, they had never experienced cholera so Snow had an uphill battle overcoming "but we've always done it this way.." kind of thinking.
The fact is that our ancestors of not so long ago used to empty their bowels into little pots and then dump the contents on the city streets. The poor didn't have that luxury - ever hear the expression "too poor to have a pot to shit in?" It was considered a luxury to have a chamber pot.
Read Scottish histories of Edinborough in the 1800's and you read about the stench from people tossing their sewage into the street. As late as the 1890's, Malthusian pundits of the day were forecasting how Boston would be buried in horse shit as the population grew. Had it not been for the newfangled horseless carriage, it may have happened.
Bottom line - our ancestors didn't know any better and just lived with the disease that resulted. We're lucky to live in a society that teaches all its children hygeine so it comes as second nature to almost all of us. We have sewer systems that keep our waste separate from our drinking water.
What Will's story of Nasiriyah illustrates is how far we've come in the past century and a half. Will's in a time machine of sorts - he's looking at how our ancestors lived because they just didn't know.
Now the problem is we can't do what Janet in Venice Beach suggests - just start ordering people to behave differently because we know better. That strategy won't get you very far. If we're too help Nasiriyah, it's going to take teaching them about germs, how they're spread and how *everyone* has to put their garbage out to be picked up. Problem is, people being people, you're going to have some people who understand and some who think it's a plot to control them - which in a sense, it is. They're going to have to pay a tax to fund the garbage collection and some citizens are going to object. The bad guys will use the tax as a weapon against us for no other reason than to make us look bad.
Ridding London of Cholera wasn't an easy task. Initially, it was because nobody understood the disease, but once a few came to understand how it spread, not everyone understood. That meant inspectors had to go around and fine people who had their cesspools draining into the spring water. Imagine how that went over. "My family has lived here for 500 years and no one's ever complained before. Who the hell do you think you are?"
:: michael February 13, 2004 06:02 AM*sighs*
Hi Will....
I'm catching up with your last three posts, as I've been dealing with my own issues. My son lost his dad days short of Halloween, and it's tough on an 8 yr. old. No tougher than the children of Iraq have it though.
*sighs*
I wish there was some sort of 'project' my son and I can do for the children/people of Iraq, and if you or any readers have any ideas, email me please. Perhaps helping children that have lost much more than a parent would help my son, AND others as well.
Keep the faith Will....if YOU lose the faith, so many of your readers would be disappointed. *not much burden there, huh?*
Godspeed,
Judi
Will,
I am writing a book about the battle for An Nasiriyah, "Marines in the Garden of Eden." May I use some of your descriptions of the city and people?
:: Richard Lowry March 13, 2004 06:56 AMHello All,
Salutes are a big deal in the Army. They are a custom that dates back to medieval times and symbolize courtesy and respect. They are reserved for officers and with good reason; officers are the educated class of the Army and are our leaders appointed by congress. They are, allegedly, a higher order of soldier and I still hope to be one when this trip is over.
However, just as the Bible says, there is a time for every season and that goes for salutes as well. The standard has always been that you don't salute officers in the field or forward areas; the reason being that snipers love to pop officers and the easiest way to identify one at a distance is to watch for salutes. Makes sense right? Always did to me and that's the way I've always trained. In fact, if an officer ever wanted a salute in the field when I was training (back in the day) I'd smile, whip one out and announce, "Sniper check, SIR!" That usually broke the offending individual (see Prima Donna) of his/her ego problem.
Well, you're never going to believe this shit. A platoon sergeant (for those that know us, he's my favorite NASCAR redneck) was walking out of the PX yesterday and walked right by a major. He didn't salute the major (wouldn't be much of a story without a point, right?).
"Soldier!" the officer called after him.
"Yes, sir?" the sergeant asked. Looking at the major's starched uniform and blocked cap he thought to himself, "This guy MUST be new around here."
"Don't you think I deserve the courtesy of a salute?"
To his credit my friend did NOT fall down laughing. He didn't even crack a smile. He thought for a moment, whipped out a fast salute and then hit the deck saying, "Sniper check, SIR!"
The best part is that the platoon sergeant remained on the ground as he explained to the officer that this is Iraq and a 'no salute zone.'
The major did not get the joke. He didn't even make the CONNECTION, and as I understand it, he didn't take it very well either. In fact, I believe that he turned beet red and marched his petulant ass to post headquarters to find out why this is a 'no salute zone.' If you think this is funny you'd be right because I think it is too. Well, I thought that it was funny until I heard that there are posts up North that ARE salute zones. Initially I called bullshit because KNB (see Paradise in Kuwait) was a 'no salute zone' and it doesn't make sense to salute in a forward area.
Apparently officers up North like being targets. I haven't heard about too many troops being killed by sniper fire so the whole salute zone might not be true, I hope not, but you never can tell with the Army.
No news on that light headed my way, and they say that no news...
I love you all,
Will
PS - It sounds like the general in charge of the Army Reserve just made the connection and is worried about retention (see Keeping Troops in Boots). You know he's gonna take the blame when it's someone else that needs a kick in the ass. I'm glad that he gets paid well.
:: Comments left behind ::
Ahh Will I could tell you some stories about a stupid Colonel (see Reserves for I'm so excited about being in charge that I must throw my birds around) and who is really screwing the troops training/waiting to deploy - but then I'm sure you know the story.
Needless to say I believe the referenced Major must be in the same frame of mind. I'm glad Sgt. Nascar hit the dirt and I hope he doesn't get in trouble. Ever notice how the rules change without notifying the troops that they relate to???
I heard today on the news that the Reserves were reviewing policy since they ONLY gave some troops 5 days notice to get their affairs in order before they had to deploy for the rotation. And they wonder if there is going to be a mass exodus - go figure.
With all its faults we're still the greatest military on earth. We just need more guys like you for officers.
Take care!
:: IRA January 21, 2004 07:47 PMThanks for the laugh Will!
Nice to hear you aren't ranting about anything affecting you, per se...at least not at the immediate moment.
May the light get brighter, and have no engine behind it, m'boy!
Godspeed,
Judi
Try to stay as far away from Mr. 'Major Pain In The Ass' as possible. He sounds like a walking danger zone. Too funny.
I wonder if these folks know how silly they are?
Maybe if you attached a bell to him you could hear him coming--like we do to the cats to warn the birds???
Glad to hear you are safe and sound. Come home soon.
A soldier's mom,
:: Katherine January 21, 2004 09:42 PMIt's TRUE! At the CPA palace in Baghdad (the very same one which has recently become a mortar target-practice favorite) we had to salute officers. This started when Gen. Sanchez showed up and said he was going to make the place more "military." Uh, okay. I was glad to be out of there soon after that.
:: Charlie Foxtrot January 22, 2004 02:00 AMOh, I should mention, the reason you didn't hear about troops being sniped up north is because the troops who are snipable aren't saluting. The FNG (Florida Nat'l Guard) guys who lived in our compound, but along the river, didn't salute inside their area.
Of course, Gen. Sanchez didn't bother to visit that side of the camp. If he had, I'm sure he'd been unhappy to discover all the "improvising" they'd done with Iraqi equipment--which gave them a/c and regular electricity when the main palace was still sweltering.
:: Charlie Foxtrot January 22, 2004 02:08 AMWill,
Loved the story!
That is definitely the smile of the day! :)
Thanks!
Mels
:: Mels January 22, 2004 11:51 AMAnyone else seeing a scene from Stripes in all of this? Can only hope the guy gets assigned to an Artic post....
Keep us updated on that light thing. By my calcs, we should be into double digits if the word holds true. Probably just jinxed it for you didn't I? I hope not.
Continue to keep your spirits up and your head down.
That's to funny!
Hope you light will be getting brigther soon!
Take care keep head down!
Good to hear you're ok Will. I gotta try that sniper check some time on my brother. Keep well, that light will show up soon and take you back to the land where everyone knows your name, (your house).
:: Ryan from Canada eh? January 23, 2004 12:39 PMWill,
Many thanks for your service and this blog. As a Vietnam vet, I wanted to say that I've heard most of your stories before and have seen some of them acted out. The stories are just as funny and pertinent as they always were. A change of scenery gives them fresh life.
Remember;
Greet veterans with a smile, a handshake, a thank-you, and a "Welcome Home".
That is awesome. Why do I always miss the opportunity to have my fun with these asshole brass wearing MFs!!! My good friend, take care. Europe is great. I wish you were taking some time to leave that hellhole. We are having a good time with the guys in thought. We know how precious every minute is there. Tell the guys hello and we will see them in a couple of weeks.
Email me with some news of the unit and getting/not getting out of Iraq.
Take care and see you soon.
Stolp
Hello Sergeant,
beh now we know that if a day will meet us instead of greet you with three kisses,how is our habit we will greet you with the salute "Sir, sergeant",ahahah.
Glad to know that you commit oneself with italian(see Prima Donna)because it is a italian word,we ask what does this word mean,it translate means (see First Lady).
CIAO to soon Sergeant, Milena and Adriana
Hey Will - you are missing out on a foot of snow here.....
:: Shell January 26, 2004 09:18 PM
Well.. Its possible some officers elected to draw out snipers with salutes..
/Joke
Question:What are the qualifications for the Iraqi Insurgant Sniper School?
Answer: Being able to hit something with a bullet.
Question: Anything?
Answer: Yes.. anything.. including the planet.
Sorry.. ina wierd mood :)
/Joke
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Hello All,
Just a quick note 'cause time is a little short. Warm nights here are a bad sign. Warm air means clouds, clouds mean rain, rain means mud and mud means miseable conditions and hummers stuck. The light is getting brighter and I haven't heard a whistle... might not be a train after all.
I kinda like the weather during the day here. It's like spring back home, but it's lasting longer than 3 days (see Nebraska weather).
Jake is doing well, I'm going to be his Godfather when I get back. Right now my Dad is standing in for me, thanks Dad but I'm sure you're having a great time with the little guy.
It's about time for us to head home. Tempers are getting shorter and general attitudes aren't very good either.
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
So glad to hear that Jake is doing so good. At lest that keeps your spritis up. That mud is something to make life miserable. Wish you could send some of that rain to San Diego. We sure need it more than you do.
Well sure hope that light at the end of the tunnel works out for you & your guys. My grandson will be back they say in the middle of may. Oh & he wasn't drunk when her re-upped. Didn't want him to but after all guess Army get's in your blood.
My Prayers are always with you & all the boy's over there.
Luv ya Take Care & God Bless
Alice
Glad to hear that there are no whistles! Always a good sign! So, when you are back to your "real life" are you going to keep us all posted on how you are doing? I hope so, we are all cheering for you and praying for you often! Take care! :-)
:: Annette January 19, 2004 08:02 PMHey short timer - you make sure these last few weeks are safe ones. All the wheels are in motion (not train tracks either).
:: IRA January 19, 2004 08:48 PMWill
Hang in there....and I'll pray for no train. Don't let your guard down even though you're hopefully coming to the end of your 'tour' (makes it sound like a vacation...NOT!).
Congrats on "godfatherhood"...!
Lorrie
:: LV January 19, 2004 09:06 PMI hear about Jake frequently. Sounds like he's doing great for having arrived a little too early. Glad to hear you are still doing well even if it is in that God forsaken place. Hope to see you one of these days SOON!!
Bert
Can't wait to here that you are home safe, I know your family misses you very much. Jake is so lucky to have such a strong and loving godfather and uncle. You always have a way with kids (i.e. Janie). We are praying for you and love you. Get home safe and soon.
:: annie January 20, 2004 01:09 AMWill,
Sounds like some "play" time is in order. Always works when my kids' volume's are tuned to high.
I know there's not much to play with and you guys are stretched pretty thin there doing more than your fair share.
Let us know if we all can do anything--maybe send something for the soldiers that they would like--I think I'd be safe in saying we'd be happy to do it.
I'm sure happy to get an update on the little fella'. Can't wait to see a picture--maybe mom could post one for us????
Also glad to hear that the light is getting brighter. Chin up, keep your feet dry and your eyes on the prize:
lemonade, a warm bed, pretty women, cold beer, baseball games, movie popcorn, traffic lights, roses blooming, a baby's finger's gripping fist gripping tightly around his uncle's finger...
We miss you...Come home safe...And soon.
A soldier's mom
:: Katherine January 20, 2004 03:06 AMI finally got my internet back and one of the first sites I checked was yours!! I was relieved to see you guys were still safe and sound...as much as you can be over there. Just you all hurry up and come home already!
:: Dianne January 20, 2004 09:23 PMI have heard that a certain BC from Arkansas has a new woman in his life besides his wife,Rheta in Afjohn.Guess who?
:: ss January 21, 2004 04:44 AMAlrighty Will!
I see you're starting to think that light is a good thing...just keep half an eye out for a train...but hope it's a useless endeavor! I think you DID send some of that rain further desert-ward...it is 'rain weather' here in Tucson. No problem though...but I DO know about side-stepping mud puddles. Er, mud lakes I mean!
Godspeed,
Judi
Hello Will,
we hope to be succeeded to do you smile with the joke,also if for a moment.Happy know that Jake is going well,it is beautiful know that you will make of Godfather to him.
We don't know succeed own to translate "hummer",we ask:is there some one that can help us to translate it in italian? Early thank you very much.
8th lesson:You are lovely boy.-tu sei un ragazzo carino-Let's to the cinema-Andiamo al cinema-You are a boy/girl nice-tu sei un ragazzo/ragazza simpatico/a.
We are very sorry hear of attack,to be very careful.Force,now it's near return to home.
ADRIANA and MILENA.
Hello Will,
Our thought are for all soldiers that have given the life for this war.It is very sad know that still continue died.
Jesus,
don't remember only the men of good will,
but also those bads...
don't for see all suffering
that they have made suffer us
you remember rather of the good things
that the suffering have made to born in us
fraternity,loyalty,humanity,courage,generosity.
The greatness of heart that is grow inside us
for all that we have suffered
and when the men will come at the last judgement,
you leave that good results
that are bornt inside us
are the pardon for them.
Return to home soon.Milena and Adriana
Will,
I have really enjoyed reading your letters. I will be happy to hear that you are home safe and out of that awful place. I hope you will continue to write letters about your "real" life. I feel as if I know you. Thanks for all that you have done - both the website and serving in the Military to protect me. Take care. Barbara
Hello All,
Well the light at the end of the tunnel is getting bigger, but I've seen that before and it ran me over. It's been raining off and on for three days and the entire camp is now a bog. Some of the tents are falling over because the stakes aren't long enough to hold in the slop with 30 mph winds. So let's talk about something besides crappy living conditions. Let's talk about stupid Army policies. Stupid? In the Army? Well stupid is as stupid does...
Stop Loss is a stupid idea. Sure it’s necessary and vital to the current mission, but it’s no way to maintain the defense of a Nation. In case you’ re not familiar (and I’m sure you are) Stop Loss is the Army policy that prevents soldiers from EST (see Army for leaving FOREVER) out of service and PCS (see Army for Not Coming Back Here, I hope) out of theater. I know what you’re thinking, "don’t you troops sign a legal and binding contract that states the length of your service?” Yep, we sure do (some schmucks do it three times) but I am told that the whole Stop Loss thing is listed in the contract.
No, I never read the WHOLE thing, ok? My first enlistment I was mostly interested in the bonus money and nervous about what I was about to do. My second enlistment I was way too hung-over (didn’t think I’d do it sober, did
you?) and my third time was right after 9/11 so I was way too motivated to care about the details. I guess the Devil really is in the details and Stop Loss is one of his creations. But I digress; I was talking about stupid ideas, not actions.
Making people continue to do a dangerous job when they want to leave is a Stupid idea. It’s bad for morale, it’s bad for the unit and it is bad for the Army. Sure it keeps us running for the time being, but how long are they gonna push this crap? And how do you expect tomorrow's soldiers to enlist when they see that a three-year hitch turns into four years or longer? Morale will suffer as those affected bitch about getting hosed. The unit will suffer because quality of work falls as the troops bitch and the Army is never going to be able to pay people enough to put up with this shit. Can you imagine a kid looking up at his brother, just home from the war saying, “I want to be just like you Johnny,” and Johnny stares down at his brother and says, “No you don’t. You want to be smart and join the Air Force.”
Another Stupid idea is what they’re doing to the NCOES, or Non-Commissioned Officer Education System (see Sergeants School). PLDC (Primary Leadership Development Course) is the first course of the NCOES and the beginning of my problem. It’s not a terribly tough time, more like a weeding out process for those who can’t learn and don’t want to put out real effort.
PLDC used to be the course you had to complete BEFORE you became a Sergeant. The Army changed the system (maybe 5 years ago) so that it was the course you needed (within a year) to KEEP your stripes. But now you must complete PLDC before your NEXT promotion (see Staff Sergeant). The alleged reason behind this move is that our troops deployed can’t rotate back to the NCOES locations to take the course. The part that is chafing my ass is that I had to earn my stripes before I got them, and I feel like the old man on the porch yelling at kids, “Why you young whippersnappers!” Maybe I’m just cranky that I had to do more than the people today. Maybe I’m dumb to think that the Army would promote someone who is unqualified for the job… nope, I KNOW that’s not the case.
But the Stupidest thing that I’ve seen (this week) is what happened today. Today I spoke with a man from the five-sided building in the D.C. area about our mission. The mission, our training, equipment and loads of other Army related stuff. He seemed genuinely concerned, asked pertinent and intelligent questions and took notes too. What’s stupid about that? Well, first off he’s a civilian contractor. Making a six figure salary. He’s a civilian contractor making a six figure salary writing a report about strengths and deficiencies which could (and should) have been passed up the Chain of Command.
The second thing about today’s meeting is who this report goes to. Allow me to tell you what I heard, “… and be sure that this report will be read. It goes directly to The Chairman…”
“Excuse me,” I said, “the chairman of what?”
“The Joint Chiefs of Staff.” And he said it with a straight face so I’m pretty sure he was serious! My brain locked and gears gound to a halt. The Joint Chiefs are the HMFIC’s (Head Mother Fuckers in Charge) of the U.S. Military. I don’t know much about The Chairman except that his name is Meyers, he reports to the President and if I ever have to stand before him I WILL be in a world of shit. But why would he need to send someone down here to get information? A civilian someone at that? Why not a young officer that needs his ticket punched with some deployment time? Why would The Chairman need to send a Spy? Doesn’t he think that he can get a “No-Bullshit” evaluation from his officers on the ground? If not, why not ask a Sergeant, or even a Private without political aims?
Civilian companies bring in contractors to help out, but from my experience they’re called Hatchet Men, and clear out the dead weight. What the hell is going on here?
I love you all,
Will
:: Comments left behind ::
You can bet that man is getting paid about $350 an hour for his time, too. He could have saved himself a trip and just read your blog. What is the matter with these people?
Hang in there SGT, if for no other reason than to save your soldiers and the rest of us from those in the five-sided building.
We appreciate you. Keep your feet dry.
A soldier's mom...
:: Katherine January 12, 2004 10:58 PMLet's just hope that this contractor's comments DO got straight to the top! Let's put it this way, if he tells the truth he isn't in the same boat as a young officer who might portray the facts to be what his superiors WANT them to be (see Brown Nosing). Another thing about when a lower ranked officer writes a report - it gets reviewed (see Changed) by every superior up the line until the document is no longer recognizable.
I agree it may be a waste of good money but perhaps it will actually work (see LONG SHOT).
You're a good man and great leader Will - not much longer to put up with all this BS.
Take care,
A Soldier's Woman - IRA
:: IRA January 13, 2004 04:40 AMWill,
As always, I have enjoyed your rants!!! They never cease to make me smile and to remind me that if not for you and those like you, life here would be much worse for all.
Keep your head up, your feet dry and pray that light keeps getting brighter (without running you over).
Also, once back home, please don't stop writing. Keep us informed, at least for a while, on your adventures. For some of us, you have become like a family member that we await news from anxiously.
Stay safe and God bless!!
Amy
:: amy January 13, 2004 06:31 AMI stumbled upon your site through some of the others I look at for my job. I am one of those people that you all come to see when you leave the military broken, hurt, lost, or unemployed. From what you say the Army hasn't changed much from when I was in 10 years ago. I work for a state that is as frustrating as the military is for you. You question why decsions that are made that make it harder for you to do your job, you do your job without the support and the materials you need because it is important, you take care of your men because they deserve better, even at a cost to you. That is a leader. Leaders don't come in starched uniforms with shiney medals. The ability to lead does not come with a title like Captain or Director or CEO. Leaders are people who care and who do because they can and they feel they should. We will never please everyone, we will never have all the support we need to do our jobs the way we know we should, but we will DO because we can when others can't. You are not there to free Iraqis, you are not there to gain land or oil, you are not there to follow through on Bush's plans. YOU are there because there are pople there (your men, your comrades, your coworkers, whatever you call them) that need you. I make enemies everyday asking for what is right or for things to be done right for those who have done what their government has asked them to do. I step on toes, I dig myself deeper into holes, but I still yell and I still fight for them because I can and because they need that.
You may not be a general, you may not be chief, you may not make the decisions, but you lead because you have a voice. Your writing helps you to deal, it gives you and outlet, but it also provides as voice for those who do't or can't spek for themselves. I commend you for your honesty and your integrity. What you say may not be popular with the higher ups, but it is the truth and it needs to be said. If noone remembers you, maybe they will remember your words and find their own voice.
LEAD FROM WHERE YOU STAND.
And just when you think things can't possibly get any "stupider".... Stop Loss....(sigh) not a happy thought for anyone. Hang in! We're all sympathyzing with your plight of the bog and idiot contractors and hodgiis and .... do I need to continue? There is just so much!
Take care of yourself and your men. We all want you to make it back without any more problems.
Young Sgt,
Yeah I can say that, nearer to 50 than 40 and thirty years service in this year. RIFTED twice and still a major.
Just when you think you've got it sorted, those clever REMFs move all the goal posts.
Sitting today (well evening) a couple hundred clicks south of your AO, same same mud and wind. Difference being I'm very short.
I've been blogging a bit from here in the deep south, keep it going, tell it like it is, the good times and the bad. Enjoy every day a la FMJ. It is the worst of times..it is also the best of times. Salaam.
A Brit.
:: ubique January 13, 2004 09:50 AMHey Will....as always, I love to read your posts and thank you so much for keeping us all so well informed! I know there are a lot of us out here thinking of you daily!
I wonder if this civilian contractor came to see you because someone in that five sided building of OURS has gotten wind of your blog and you've caught their attention! This could mean really good things for you Will, a chance to have your voice heard by someone who can actually make a difference! Of course, in the military, that's not always a good thing if you skip the chain of command in the process, but maybe that's part of the problem.
Keep focused on the light Will and know that you will be home with your family soon. By the way, how is your nephew doing? Big, strong and beautiful, I'd imagine by now!
Take care and know that you are loved out here!!
:: Sharon January 13, 2004 11:16 AMHang in there Will! I am sorry you are so frustrated! Just know that you are thought of and we all pray for you often my friend! (we also pray for a boil on the butt of the joint chiefs of staff!)
:: Annette January 13, 2004 11:42 AMWill,
You mentioned having someone from that five-sided building sending an officer to talk to y'all who has no political ambition. Is there such an officer? Not that I've ever seen, and I'm a military brat (and now wife). And do you really think that anyone is going to listen to/ report back what an NCO, not to mention an enlisted person says? I think not. We all know that if you didn't go to Westpoint, your opinion doesn't matter to any of the Westpointers in charge. So my personal opinion is that the civilian contractor is the best option. The fact that they even sent someone makes it clear that this is not my grandfather's, or even father's Army.
And thank you for the rants- it definitely puts things back here in perspective.
Take care, and God Speed.
:: Laurissa January 13, 2004 11:55 AMWill:
About time someone whom tells it like it is can speak out on the B ________that goes on. Hope you gave him an ear full. Reading you e-mails I think that is excatly what you done.
I am proud of you for doing that. You know if those HMFiC's had sense they would have figured out to make those tents stakes better so you wouldn't have to stay in the rain & mud, like it is now.
Guess my grandson is like you, he has earned his stripes over there, now they are having him take the PLDC course to maintain what he has.
Well Will I wish you & all your men the very best. I pray for you every nite.
I remaim Grandma Alice of a soldier.
:: Alice January 13, 2004 08:56 PMWill,
I have enjoyed your commentary for several months. My father pulled two combat tours in Viet- Nam. When I read your brilliant pieces I can't help but think what a morale booster it would have been for a nine year old boy to have been able to get a peek, such as the one you provide, at what his father was doing so far away. Thank you.
David
Will, I have no idea if you have seen the movie "Finding Nemo"...most likely not, being 'there' for some time (sorry not trying to rub it in) but in it is a blue tang fish named Dory, voiced by Ellen Degeneres. She is a bit absent-minded, and when scared, worried, or confused, she sings this little ditty ..."just keep swimming, swimming, swimming, swimming...just keep swimming....". Through the movie the words and tune run through your mind and that is what I'm offering to you tonight: "Just keep 'swimming...."
Wish I could do more to improve morale there. *sighs*
Godspeed,
Judi
Judi - thanks for the laugh. Will - you are going to love Finding Nemo.
God help the civilian that they sent over there if you were chawing his ear! But tell it to him straight, if he doesn't report it, well then just add that to the list of stupid things - Damn the Man!! I applaud you for speaking your mind but wouldn't expect anything less.
Weather good here, mild winter so far. Lots going on so will catch you up some other time.
Looking forward to that "light" cuz I am getting bored here without you.
I am an Infantry Bradley Fighting Vehicle Master Gunner serving as a Section Leader. I am responsible for 2 Bradleys and seven crew members on them. There are 14 dismounted Infantrymen who ride in the back. These men are like my brothers. We are going to replace 4th Infantry Division in Tikrit very soon and deploy to Iraq for one year.
Stop Loss is absolutely necessary. It stablizes a unit in order to provide the ability to employ a cohesive force effectively. It would increase risk on a level incomprehensible to a civilian to do implace reassignments of soldiers during deployment. Stop Loss is explained in the contract of every soldier before they sign.
Promotions are based on the past performance and potential for excellence. Every Sergeant in the Army is responsible for developing soldiers and leaders. PLDC is an NCOES school that is merely 30 days of classroom instruction on leadership. But application of leadership, the real challenge, can only be learrned by practical application, through trial and error. Good leaders give after action reviews and draw feedback from thier subordinates in order to develop good leadership characteristics.
I know that several soldiers of mine are going to be recommended for promotion to Sergeant next month. There is a waiting list to attend PLDC in Grafenwohr. We are going to Iraq for a year. They will be serving in Sergeant positions, and deserve the pay, as well as the respect. It would be a travesty not to promoted them.
I read your bio. So you are a Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Specialist. That makes you an NBC guru. Wow. Keep your head up, your going home soon.
SSG Philip Jarvis
Master Gunner
Infantry
The views I wrote should reflect those of good leaders, but not necessarily do. Take it with a grain of sand.
:: SSG Philip Jarvis January 14, 2004 01:07 PMSSG Javis--
With all due respect, sir---
Maybe so, but wait til you get over there and ask your men how THEY feel. That is of coure if they feel comfortable enough to tell you.
My son is there, and there is a big difference between what the brass thinks and what the men that are in the slop actual experience.
Let us know when you've suffered through months of 150 degree heat and then 8 inches of mud and rain how cohesive your units are feeling.
A soldier's mother...
:: Katherine January 14, 2004 01:37 PMIt's been a long time since I've left a comment but I wanted you to know I still read from time to time. I love what you have to say and believe the light at the end of the tunnel will draw quickly near for you. If you don't continue writing after this disfunctional portion of your life, I wanted to wish you well and tell you that you will be missed.
:: rkinla January 16, 2004 01:24 AMDear Will,
If you ever read the comments, check Blackfive's blog for the 15th. If the rumors are even remotetly possible, be sure you know where your Chem suit is. Hope this is all just drama.
Take Care
Williams family
:: Williams Family January 16, 2004 03:10 AMsorry to hear about the stoploss shit... almost makes you feel drafted don't it?..
hey cheer up... it'll all be over soon.
won't it?
meantime get yourself and your troopers some journals/diaries to put down their thoughts...
try these...
Baghdad Bolo
http://www.cafeshops.com/twspoliart.9399888
Gun Diplomacy
http://www.cafeshops.com/twspoliart.9374294
:: MetaPatriot January 16, 2004 02:29 PMHi Will,
Sorry for the slow response. I'm studying for my Navy Reserve YNC exam. Holy shit! Don't even get me started about Stop Loss. The Navy's doing it too. I totally agree with you that it's not doing anyone any favors. It will impact morale in a negative way, and that will hurt retention, big time.
What the Army calls PLDC, the Navy has an equivalent program for. It seems that every 6 months they change it. I can relate to your feelings on this whole thing. Again, don't get me started. I could write a book.
That whole thing you described with the civilian dude sounds nuts. For what they're paying this guy, they could talk to oodles of non-coms, etc and get more bang for their buck. I could never understand the military's penchant to spend excessive amounts of money on things like this, and then to add insult to injury, get civilian contracted people! Totally nuts. This is what happens when I'm posting a comment plowed on wine ;)
Anyway, like always, you're in my prayers, and many other peoples prayers. I hope with all my heart that the light you see at the end of the tunnel is not a freakin' train. Hang in there, and stay safe.
Hello Will,
for us all this is new because we don't have a familiar or a friend in the army,but seems that in America this is normal.We ask ourselves why do you are so many boys and girls that enlist so young?
We wanted stun you with specials effects.....instead.....smile it is a joke:
Two men lost in desert,(Will and..... ahahahahah) one tells to the other:-I must give you two news, a beautiful and the other ugly!The ugly is that also day we eat sand!-The other discouraged asks:-And do that beautiful?-Look how there is it!!!ahahahahahah :-).
7th lesson:What time is it?Che ore sono?-It is 5 o'clock,sono le ore 5-When do we meet you?Quando ci incontriamo?
Happy to know the light that bring you to home is near.
Adriana and Milena
Hi, Will!
I've been reading your blog on and off since Captain Rooba put it up. :) If I can remember correctly, it's his sister who told me about it.
Anyhoo.....rant away all you wish! You've got a great sense of humor and a great way of telling a story...for a few minutes I can imagine what you're going through because of the power of your words.
I pray that you get to come home soon. Do give Wisconsin a second chance, though! If you were mid-state I can see where you're coming from, but Milwaukee's great. Come home by Summerfest and I'll buy you a beer. :) Or a dozen. ;)
Take care, stay dry and Godspeed.
Meg
:: Meg January 18, 2004 07:26 PMWill,
We had a civvie at KNB who belonged to the "Center for Naval Analysis". He's an ex-USMC LtCol and while somewhat of a pompous ass until you got to know him, actually wrote excellent reports about how to improve things.
As a former KNB'er, I loved the no-salute policy. I had to go to Doha once, and had to salute more that day than I did in 6 mos at KNB. It was a rude awakening.
Finally, I have a spare KNB/Camp P coin. When you get back, let me know where to send it.
:: Kevin February 6, 2004 11:39 AMDear Will.
I am a Bradley Platoon Sergeant in the 1st Armored Division. We have been sweating it out over here in the big sandbox for quite awhile. 150 degree heat, people shooting at you, or trying to blow you up but you know what? We are all still motivated because we remember why we are here and are all darn proud to be allowed the privelige of serving our great nation in time of need. Sure stop loss sucks but guess what? No one forced you to join the Army. You signed up to do a job, and if necessary, pay the ultimate sacrifice for your country and freedom. Whiners like you make all of us look bad so quit complaining, do your job, and suck it up. Remember,
"Our Country, not ourselves"
:: SFC Billings March 4, 2004 11:15 AMHello All,
There is nothing like pushing a Hummer with an exhaust leak down a desolate Iraqi road on a moonless night. The grumble of the engine as you put your boot squarely in her ass as she nears top speed, squinting your eyes against the chill of the desert night and the icy fingers that creep down your neck as you watch your headlights push back the darkness. You’ve got that light in the corner of your eye, but not like you’ve heard about in movies and books. Not the light of guys that who think that they are about to get their ticket punched and toe tagged, that’s not you. The light you see tells you that no matter what happens tonight you’re going home with all your fingers and toes. You’re feeling like a Grade A Badass with your weapon hanging out the window and your buddy riding shotgun, knowing that no malnourished Hoji with a Kalashnikov or a couple of daisy-chained 60mm mortar rounds can touch you tonight. Oh hell no, tonight you’re 8 feet tall and bullet proof.
You take off your helmet, you’re not supposed to in the name of regulations, standards and knee-jerk reactions to unlucky situations, but you do it “Because.” “Because” you love the feel of the cool wind across the stubble that used to be your hair and “Because” you have armor on your Hummer, not the kind of armor that the Army is slowly putting on it’s trucks but the home made Road Warrior meets the A-Team contraption that is so Ugly, it is Beautiful. It’s tough and rugged and sharpened and mean; and it’s nothing at all that the policy makers in the Five Sided Building would approve of, but it gets the job done and that’s what matters.
No, the Army never authorized this extra protection and the bureaucrats never will. They’ll write reports and ‘coordinate’ and we’ll never see the fruits of their labor. In fact another company that is on their way here built their own armor for their unarmored trucks. Spent lots of their Own money and even got a kick-ass civilian businessman to help out with the costs, but were then told that the Army doesn’t think they should be using something home made. Oh, what a great idea! Let's not protect our troops and then be surprised when they are blown to pieces or shot full of holes. I know, let's just talk to the armor fairy and maybe she’ll spread pixie dust on our trucks and the bullets and fragments and shrapnel will just bounce off the plastic doors.
In previous wars soldiers were rewarded for improvising new ways of completing their missions and saving lives.
Maybe someone in the bureaucracy has forgotten the creed I learned as a young pup; Mission First, Soldiers Always. Pretty simple, rarely easy but the best four words to remember when it comes to leading troops (if you lead them from the Front, that is). You can have all your movie lines and political speeches and mission statements and throw them in the port-o-crapper. Accomplish your mission, and it probably won’t be pretty or easy but get the friggin’ job done. Period. Take risks, remember your commanders’ intent (i.e. why you’re there) and use some Initiative. Seems like that last part is getting micromanaged out of the Army and we are weaker for it. I would rather one of my troops did something the wrong way and learn from it rather than just sit and look at the problem until I came along and told them the right way. The problem is that so many are afraid of making a mistake they do nothing, and that is called Living In Fear. A little fear will keep you alive, too much will keep you from living.
But don’t forget about your troops. This goes to hot chow and mail call. Leave times and a listening ear. Taking personal problems offline and covering their Asses when they step on their… er, um, pride. Oh, yeah, and buying the first round of drinks or pizza on Christmas Day or anything else that might give them a lift. This is Soldiers Always. If it means that NCO ’s have to kick in 20 bucks apiece to cover the price of the Christmas Party or the Summer Picnic, then that’s what we do. We work extra hours on the paperwork so they can walk in, sign their names and get back to their jobs.
But what do I know; I’m just doing my job.
I love you all,
Will
PS – Ok, I don’t really have extra armor on my truck but when I saw one that did, this rant started brewing. The good news is that the light I saw just got a bit brighter… not gonna spill the news yet but this time it might not be a train.
:: Comments left behind ::
will, i really liked this one. im not a fan of micromanaging anywhere, and especially in times of combat. one small show of initiative might just be the thing to save alot of asses one night.i think you guys need to do whatever it takes to get home soon. my brother got promoted to sgt while he sits in baghdad, and i think i'd like the chance to congratulate him in person.so hooah for inventiveness and to hell with micromanagement.
I wish lots of armor surround you. This was a good read. Keep being fast.
:: oscar January 4, 2004 07:33 PMI wish you all LOTS of armor to keep you all safe. God Bless you and I hope that you see the bright light from home shining real soon! Stay safe!
:: Annette January 4, 2004 07:59 PMI sure hope some of the Bureaucrats read this and listen to you. The Army is notarious for sitting on their a$$es while we lose soldiers - and then somewhere down the line - they finally work on a "fix". Instead of paying KBR so damn much they need to look at protecting our soldiers. Reserves really get 2nd rate equipment. Ok I know it's been said before - but I needed to rant too!
:: Ira January 4, 2004 08:04 PMHi Will,
You guys should have buku armor surrounding you. It's a disgrace that the Army cannot seem to get its priorities straight. I've heard many stories in the news and from various milbloggers regarding having to buy their own equipment, night vision goggles, etc, at their own expense because they weren't supplied any of these items, and these are people in a combat zone! I know that you have your priorities straight, thank God! And these same bureaucrats wonder why there is such a problem and issue with retention of Reservists. Unreal! I'm so glad that you're starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. I'm excited for you guys. I'll keep you all in my prayers. Hang in there, stay safe, and let us know as soon as you're positive of when you're coming home.
Homemade armor is a big topic in some of the news stories I've seen lately. Sure wouldn't hurt to have some. Still pisses me off that it has to come from someone other than who is supposed to supply it in the first place!!
Snow here today. It was 57 just two days ago and now snow. Go figure. The icy fingers I'm feeling on the back of my neck just kind of suck about right now...Guess I should tell him to put some gloves on - ha, Willy, I slay me!
WALK TOWARDS THE LIGHT! Let me know when we can begin the countdown and I'll get a ball bigger than the one in Times Square ready to drop when you get home.
I know it does you a fat lot of good to be 'Man of the Year' (as in TIME's Man of the Year aka this year it's the Soldier), but once again, I'm reminded why by your posting here. For a moment, I forgot where I was and could almost feel the air going through my hair as you described it, and why it was important to you...and then how frustrating bureaucracy is...
:: Trish Lewis January 4, 2004 09:58 PMDearest Will,
You are so right and wrote so eloquently.
"Sgt. Maj. Eric Cooke died Dec. 24 near Samarra — north of Baghdad — after his vehicle hit an improvised bomb In Iraq. Cooke stressed the importance of armored, or “up-armed,” Humvees — of adding armor and steel plates, “anything to protect his soldiers,” Henry said."
The very type of armor that may have saved his life.
You are a warrior on so many levels Will. I have long sinced placed you in the protective custody of all the guardian angles. However I trust that you take and and all necessary precautions and make every attempt to be ready to come out barrels blazing.
Necessity is the mother of all invention and it is necessary that you get your ass home safe and sound. At ease. You are dismissed.
S.W.A.K.
:: SzaffireBlue January 5, 2004 12:40 AMthere should be a website up with all the gear you guys need, a shopping site with one click purchase programming, a wishlist feature, and a paypal or site-direct payment fund, so that you guys can post what you need that isn't getting to you from the military, and We the People can contribute and buy it for you our OWN selves, and bypass all that 5 sided dinosauric sludge. that site should have the desert boots, body armor plates, vehicle armor plates, night vision goggles, boxer shorts, and everything else you find yourself without, and it wouldnt matter if the items came from different suppliers in different places. it wouldnt matter if one person paid for an item or if a pooling fund was open to throw partial contributions into. i bet Amazon could open such an online store. put em in a whole new business, doing their part for the national security effort. another way for the net to overtake and pass the old way of doing things...hell, they're privatizing everything else, we might as well just go for it. if you wait for the government to do it, it'll never get done. isn't that the quintessential American Ethos anyway? Individual initiative, can-do, entrepreneurship, self starting? build a better mousetrap, etc? with socialism or communism or totalitarianism or theocracy, you are programmed to wait, do nothing, and expect the government to take care of you in all things. In OUR way of life, we do it ourselves and let government watch and learn how it's done! I mean, the DOJ tried real hard, and they couldn't even make a *dent* in BIll Gates--! When you're that excited and that far ahead of everything, there's no stopping you.
what say, folks? shall we do it? does this sound like a good idea? bypass the gov't morass and give our soldiers the option to get their wishlists fulfilled by friends and supporters via online shopping, order filling and delivery ?
:: janet in venice January 5, 2004 01:36 AMPoignant peotry in motion as always Will... Take care and get that armour fixed on, necessity is the mother of invention after all! Take care of yourself and your men,
:: becky January 5, 2004 01:38 AMWill - remember to look to McGyver for all your inspirational home-made items. He will guide you to any modification as I have heard he has been doing this already! :) Glad to hear you ranting like your old self again! Hang in and hope you get back SOON!
Evans
:: Evans January 5, 2004 07:24 AMWill: I totally agree with your micromanagement rant. I've work for the government since I graduated from Clemson nearly 9-1/2 years ago, though not in the same position. The position I currently hold is a newly created "Homeland Security" position that pays great, but is not wanted by the people in the central office where my office is physically located, nor is my position wanted in the 13 county region I am paid to serve either. You want to know why? Ok, I'll tell you why. Because everyone is scared I am going to take their job. I don't want any of their jobs, I want to help them, but their too stupid to realize I could make things easier on them. Did I mention I also have no less than 6 people who want to supervise me? Don't get me started....
I hope you and your guys (and girls?) will be coming home safely very soon. I just learned today my dear friend Pam, who is also an Army Reservist and has who also has been "deployed" since last January, although she is here stateside, has had her deployment extended for another 12 months. I didn't know the Army could do that but I guess they can do whatever they feel like doing! Pam has been roving between two installations in Georgia and Virginia in-processing and out-processing troops to Iraq and other regions in the middle-East. If you pass thru Fort Stewart or Fort Sam Hill on your in-bound trip, look for her and tell her a funny joke because she has a wonderful, contagious and forgettable laugh. Besides you can't miss her, she's a 6' 2" black female who is always smiling. Of course with this latest bit of news, she might not be smiling!
God bless and hurry home to your family!
--Donna
Will, Im in love!! Will you marry me?
:: Kitty January 5, 2004 08:37 PMWill,
It's good to know that there are some Real American Badasses out there. I, for one, sleep better at night.
The potential good news presents one problem: you'll have to figure out how to smuggle your hummer back into the states.
Thank you,
:: corey January 6, 2004 01:43 PMWill-
PS Stop Loss will continue until Moral Improves.
Kitty - Take a number and get in line behind my sexxy ass. If there is anything left of Will (read: not a chance baby), you are welcome to my sloppy seconds. =]
As always, with a wink and a grin and an inside joke that everyone wants in on,
Szaffie ; )
:: SzaffireBlue January 6, 2004 05:44 PMHello Will,
thinking last year,we begin to speak of friendship.We think that it exists really,in fact a boy said us:"it's beautiful that you are so,don't changed",but he don't believe at the friendship.unfortunately we are searching still the love,what say regard it?A little time ago a boy interested about one of us,later he has tried with other,yeah with better friend!grievous error.What we have made?Thereare revenged and there are enjoy.Now we speak beautiful things,the holiday ti paris in june,a fine days!We laugh always..Some american boys have invited us to dinner,there were others boys and girls of the hostel.Abeautiful company,fantastic!You know that we don't english....HELP....we are simply starving,then we have eaten a great salad!The next once if american boys invited us to dinner and we accept and we tell 'pizza' it understands in the world, true?HAHAHAHA,however it has been a beautiful evening .The following days there were boys that spoke english,french and spanish and, for absurd, we have understood something and still today we don't know how.We hope that new year something change,for example,two point that we have spoke the beginning of the letter,we hope,also, to make another beautiful travel how Paris.....
CIAO,return to home soon.
Milena and Adriana
Follow that light! I wish you and all of the others that have sucked up the past 12+ months a safe journey home. Thanks for being a badass.
:: Kat January 9, 2004 10:19 AMWill,
Here's some news from Omaha:
The Butternut Building (downtown) was destroyed by a 4-alarm fire this week. HUGE fire apparently. Photos at Omaha.com
Thought you might want to know.
Stay safe and warm. Peace
Mels
Hey Will - new coach announced today.
Bill Callahan (recently fired from the Oakland Raiders). No word yet on who is staying and who is going.
I'll get you more info when it comes out.
Hello Sgt.
you have own reason,we hope that in future you will be provide of armours more adeguate for your safety.Congratulations your robot is landed safe on Mars and compliments also for beautiful image of Mars."is so it's you have all right!!!..."We are very worry for the european robot that by Christmas we don't have news its after the landing on Mars.We hope soon know that also it is safe....
New year new lesson.
6th lesson:What's your address?qual'è il tuo indirizzo?; my address is...,il mio indirizzo è...;What's your telephone number? qual'è il tuo numero di telefono?;My telephone number is...,il mio numero di telefono è....;When is your birthday?quando è il tuo compleanno?My birthday is...,il mio compleanno è...
Courage soldiers,return soon to home
Adriana and Milena
Do whatever you have to do to keep yourself safe and sound. That's an mother's order. If those at home don't like it, they can fly over there and replace you. Easy solution. As long as the hummer will drive, put all the armor on it that it will carry.
A soldier's mother...
:: Katherine January 11, 2004 12:03 PMWill, since we have not heard from you in while hope every thing is going as good as it get for you guys over their. Stay safe and put as much armor as that thing will carry. Any thing to keep you guys a little safer!
Take Care Guys!
Will,
My nephew is over there. He is his mother's only son. I wish there was a better way to keep you all safe. Better yet, I wish there was no war. I understand why you are there and I am supportive of that. But I wish they could send Robots instead or at the very least stick the leaders in a boxing ring and whoever won the boxing match would win the war. I bet there wouldn't be a war then would there? :-)
I don't know if its permitted to mention my nephews name or not so I won't. But I sure wish I could tell him "Hello and Thanks" My own son is off to the naval boot camp in March and then I will have to worry about him also. I was honestly hoping that all of this would be over by then.
Debbie K
Your problems with armor are being experienced throughout the theater. Check out Iraq Now http://iraqnow.blogspot.com/2003_12_01_iraqnow_archive.html#107252908233645616
It sucks that the beaurocrats have forgotten the lessons learned in previous wars. The first analogy that comes to mind is the hedgerow busting attachment applied to Sherman tanks to prevent France from becoming a bloodbath in WWII. That little mod was invented by a motorpool sarg and is credited for breaking the deadlock of northern France.
Short of starting a conspiracy, such innovation is probably not well recieved because there is no obvious owner of this intellectual property, and thus, no lucrative, exclusive contracts to be awarded. Plus, it may void certain contract warantees of equipment.
Yes, your life is on the line, but back in the world, you are just a number with an asset value attached to it, as is the hmmv canvass doors.
I hope you get into OCS and fix their thinking from the inside.
Keep putting those mods on until a bean counter comes over there and forces you to remove them. If the CO bucks, ask him to go for a ride in a canvas-door hmmv down IED alley.
-Long time reader
:: Sgt Slack January 13, 2004 08:32 PMWill...
As was mentioned earlier by someone, you and your company must have quite the legion of angels guarding you by now!
Godspeed,
Judi
Find your www.ALL-FIORICET.COM here, 100% discrete!
:: click here June 14, 2004 06:36 PM