Musings From Momma Marine - Supporting Our Heroes with Care Packages
FORT HOOD SOLDIERS on 2nd TRIP TO IRAQ
Sun, Jul 26 2009 10:07
| Ft. Hood, Fort Hood, supporting our heroes, Ft.Hood, US Army, Borger TX, Momma Marine., Iraq, Momma Jodi, Soldiers, support, Iraq Updates, fibromyalgia, U.S. Army
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We have picked up some more Soldiers to mail to in Iraq. A mom contacted me and told me about her son's battalion that is on their 2nd deployment to Iraq. She mailed to them on the last deployment but this one finds her suffering from fibromyalgia and not able to shop, pack or send very much. Momma Marine offered to help and we have now received the list of names for 115 Soldiers deployed from Ft. Hood. Momma Josephene has spoken with her son in Iraq and told him that Supporting Our Heroes is taking up the slack and she reported back "He told some of the other soldiers that you all were helping me.....Girl, you have my Ft. Hood battalion with smiles on their faces. GOD BLESS YOU FOR HELPING. This is the time when they start missing their families, including my son. Thank you for putting a smile on their faces."
If you would like to send cards, letters or donate something to go in their Support Boxes, PLEASE send them to us or call and we'll come pick them up. We do have Donation Drop Boxes in Borger, Fritch and Stinnett, TX . The locations are listed on the "How You Can Help" tab to the left. We will need more, more, more to be able to cover the Ft. Hood Battalion like they deserve along with the others already on our list. We have also added a few other Marines and Soldiers that have been emailed to us from some of our Hero Supporters.
These are our Sons and Daughters, Moms and Dads, Aunts and Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews, don't hold back, email or call WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT to help fill our weekly SUPPORT BOXES. And don't forget, we are sending to MEN & WOMEN.
GOD BLESS YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR HEROES!
Semper Fi,
Comments
Thanks from 2/23 Golf Company, IRAQ
Fri, Jul 17 2009 03:47
| USMC, Momma Jodi, Thanks, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, U.S.M.C., 2/23 Golf Co., Marines in Iraq
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Well, we have officially reached the half way point of our deployment and the Marines here are glad to know it is all downhill from here. Our 4th of July was somewhat uneventful. Those Marines that did not have official duties had a "day off" and we got together to play a game of softball. We all had fun even though we were in the middle of a sand storm. We have been getting sand storms about every other day. Not sure which is better, a sand storm day that is a bit cooler but sand everywhere or a clear day with temperatures blazing.
Many packages continue to arrive and we are so grateful for the support. A few folks that I would like to acknowledge:
- Momma Jodi, Dennis O'Bryant and the folks at "Supporting Our Heroes- Thank you for all the goodies, games and the Beanie Babies. The Farkle game was the first thing to be grabbed by the Marines. As usual the freezer pops did not last long and was very noticeable that the Marines can never get enough of them. Thanks you.
- Peggy Kane- I do remember you seeing us off at our training center a few days before we left. Thank you for your generosity and support. The Marines enjoyed all the snacks, treats and hygiene supplies.
- Laura Kirk, Health to Soldiers and Betty Lou's Inc- once again the treats are very appreciated. The granola bars and the peanut butter balls were devoured by our health nuts, and we have plenty of them here. Thank you!
- James Spliedt and the folks at Agruim U.S. Inc.- Thank you all for your never ending support. It was apparent that the snacks and the jerky were very much appreciated by the Marines by the way they disappeared as soon as the box was opened.
Enclosed are a few pictures of our Marines in action and some of us not in action. We have also updated our website and more pictures can be seen on 2/23 G Co
Thank you all once again,
From the Marines and Sailors of Golf Company 2nd BN 23rd Mar.
Updates from USMC AR 2/23 G Co. Iraq
Tue, Jul 7 2009 04:04
| USMC, Iraq, support, Momma Jodi, Letters from IRAQ, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, Marines, Military, Marines in Iraq
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Mamma Jodi,
Been sitting on your letters for a while now and I am finally able to make some time to thank you and all the folks at Supporting Our Heroes for your time and support. Please pass on to Dennis O. for the beanie babies. We appreciate all that you have done for us. It is very surprising how a Marine's attitude can change when they receive a package in the mail. You my dear have brought quite a few smiles to our Marines here. Thank you. The support that we have been receiving from all back home is unbelievable and heartwarming. There is just not enough thank yous to express how much we appreciate your generosity. We did received the freezer pops in one piece, they did not explode thank goodness. These are the treats that disappear once they get cool. The Marines cannot even wait for them to freeze.
So far we have been here over 3 months and our jobs are slowly coming to an end. With the implementation of the US/Iraqi agreement, our involvement in the cities is winding down. That is what we have named the "responsible draw down." All we would like to know is if this responsible draw down will advance our timeline of going home?
Our duty here has not been too rough for us. As a company we occupied three different Combat Out-Post "COPs" with the living conditions not too bad. With our draw down, we have closed our COPs and returned to our larger camp. We have dubbed this camp "Camp Cup Cake" since it has all the amenities that we lacked at our COPs and we are seeing the Marines getting a bit spoiled even though they deserve every bit of it.
Now that we have a bit more time on our hands, we are getting ready to start a company softball tournament. We have been talking about getting t-shirts made. Enclosed is a logo that was presented. If we are able to find a good local printer to get them done we will be sure to send you one.
Once again Thank you for your support.
From the Marines and Sailors of Golf Company 2nd Battalion 23rd Marines.
1st Sgt Erazmo Ornelas
Been sitting on your letters for a while now and I am finally able to make some time to thank you and all the folks at Supporting Our Heroes for your time and support. Please pass on to Dennis O. for the beanie babies. We appreciate all that you have done for us. It is very surprising how a Marine's attitude can change when they receive a package in the mail. You my dear have brought quite a few smiles to our Marines here. Thank you. The support that we have been receiving from all back home is unbelievable and heartwarming. There is just not enough thank yous to express how much we appreciate your generosity. We did received the freezer pops in one piece, they did not explode thank goodness. These are the treats that disappear once they get cool. The Marines cannot even wait for them to freeze.
So far we have been here over 3 months and our jobs are slowly coming to an end. With the implementation of the US/Iraqi agreement, our involvement in the cities is winding down. That is what we have named the "responsible draw down." All we would like to know is if this responsible draw down will advance our timeline of going home?
Our duty here has not been too rough for us. As a company we occupied three different Combat Out-Post "COPs" with the living conditions not too bad. With our draw down, we have closed our COPs and returned to our larger camp. We have dubbed this camp "Camp Cup Cake" since it has all the amenities that we lacked at our COPs and we are seeing the Marines getting a bit spoiled even though they deserve every bit of it.
Now that we have a bit more time on our hands, we are getting ready to start a company softball tournament. We have been talking about getting t-shirts made. Enclosed is a logo that was presented. If we are able to find a good local printer to get them done we will be sure to send you one.
Once again Thank you for your support.
From the Marines and Sailors of Golf Company 2nd Battalion 23rd Marines.
1st Sgt Erazmo Ornelas
Pennsylvania National Guard in Tarmiyah, Iraq
Thu, May 14 2009 08:07
| Pennsylvania National Guard, U.S.Army, National Guard, Iraq, Jeremy McClellan, Iraq Updates, OEF, Striker, Stryker
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C Co. 1/111 INF 56 SBCT
Stryker Brigade. A National Guard Unit from Pennsylvania landed in Iraq in January 2009, among them is SSG Jeremy McClellan, from Borger, TX, called in from the (IRR) Inactive Ready Reserve while in the process of re-enlisting in the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Program.
Hooah! ARMY!
Semper Fi,
BEANIE BABIES DONATED TO HEROES
Thu, May 14 2009 07:35
| Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, Beanie Babies, Afghanistan, Borger TX Air Port, troops, Hutchinson County Air Port, Borger Air Port
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Dennis O'Bryant, manager of the Hutchinson County Airport, is shown with "some" of the Beanie Babies that he and his family donated to Supporting Our Heroes. O'Bryant said his children have been collecting these "Beanies" for years but decided to donate them to the Troops receiving Support Boxes. The "Beanies" will be a very welcome gift to the children of Iraq and Afghanistan. Ground Troops love having candy and small toys to hand the local children. This is one of the best ways to show our help and friendship in the countries our Military are located. Thank you! Dennis! and God Bless you and your family!
THANKS! From Task Force 1/3
Fri, Jan 9 2009 05:56
| support, Letters from IRAQ, Thanks, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, returning troops, Letters from Military, Marines, troops, Marines in Iraq
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I wanted to pass on the sincere appreciation from all the Marines and Sailors of 1st Battalion 3rd Marines for all the thoughtful care packages. Many of my men are on their first deployment, let alone first combat deployment, so it can be a difficult adjustment, but with all your support it makes it easier. It is good to know that there are so many caring Americans that continue to support the men and women fighting this war on terrorism.
We only have a little time left now and I ask that is you had plans on sending more care packages, please do so in the next couple of days so it makes it to us prior to getting forwarded back to
Thanks again for all the great support, take care
Semper Fidelis!
R/S
Sergeant Major Richard Lewallen
Task Force 1/3
3445-325
HERO SUPPORTERS,
THANK YOU for all your help in sending Support Boxes to this Task Force Unit. Since mail cut off is early February and it takes 1 to 2 weeks for mail to arrive, we'll be sending out this week and all next week to this Unit. If you have anything you'd like to send, please call or email. 806.898.0356 or Jodi@SupportingOurHeroes.com. From what I've heard, the last month of deployment is one of the hardest, so we'll be sending a lot to our guys to try to help them through that mail-less last month.
Semper Fi
From our 2ndLt Lenny Tran
Tue, Jan 6 2009 09:46
| Letters from IRAQ, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, Letters from Military, Marines in Iraq, heroes
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Hi Momma Jodi!
Sorry for not writing sooner; I just returned back from a mission that kept me out for a little while. As it turns out, after weeks of planning and coordination for the move to our current position, we've just received orders to move right back to where we were originally. Needless to say, not many people in my unit are happy about this. So now we have to pack up everything again and do this all over. My address won't be affected, though.
Oh, I forgot to tell you; it was my birthday last week. It's been so
hectic that I haven't really told anyone--I nearly forgot myself, haha. Believe it or not, it was on Christmas. And Christmas itself was good; we hardly noticed anything different, though. It was pretty much business as usual. New Year's came and went the same way. My fellow Lieutenant friends and I spent a couple of hours commiserating together about what we'd be doing if we weren't over here. We pitied ourselves for a little bit, but realized that we're here because we're needed here. And I realized that I'd probably never get to know you or about your family if I wasn't over here, so I'm actually glad for the deployment.
I have been trying to play Mattie's guitar every chance I get. My buddy snapped a couple photos of me playing it, so I'll send them to you and Mattie when I retrieve them from his camera. I haven't been able to use the vacuum much because of all my missions and because my living space is just a transient one right now. But the next move should be (hopefully) permanent for the rest of the deployment. It's worked out so far though; thanks so much for it!
Once again, thanks so much for everything. You've been so wonderful to me. Let me know what your New Year's resolutions are. Talk to you soon!
Always,
Lenny
Sorry for not writing sooner; I just returned back from a mission that kept me out for a little while. As it turns out, after weeks of planning and coordination for the move to our current position, we've just received orders to move right back to where we were originally. Needless to say, not many people in my unit are happy about this. So now we have to pack up everything again and do this all over. My address won't be affected, though.
Oh, I forgot to tell you; it was my birthday last week. It's been so
hectic that I haven't really told anyone--I nearly forgot myself, haha. Believe it or not, it was on Christmas. And Christmas itself was good; we hardly noticed anything different, though. It was pretty much business as usual. New Year's came and went the same way. My fellow Lieutenant friends and I spent a couple of hours commiserating together about what we'd be doing if we weren't over here. We pitied ourselves for a little bit, but realized that we're here because we're needed here. And I realized that I'd probably never get to know you or about your family if I wasn't over here, so I'm actually glad for the deployment.
I have been trying to play Mattie's guitar every chance I get. My buddy snapped a couple photos of me playing it, so I'll send them to you and Mattie when I retrieve them from his camera. I haven't been able to use the vacuum much because of all my missions and because my living space is just a transient one right now. But the next move should be (hopefully) permanent for the rest of the deployment. It's worked out so far though; thanks so much for it!
Once again, thanks so much for everything. You've been so wonderful to me. Let me know what your New Year's resolutions are. Talk to you soon!
Always,
Lenny
Re: Happy New Year and Thank You!
Thu, Jan 1 2009 05:33
| Letters from IRAQ, Happy New Year, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes
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I sent notes to the Marines I receive email from wishing them a Happy New Year and telling them how much we all appreciate them and Thanking Them for the job they are doing. Here are two replies I have received. The first one is from our very short and sweet writer, Luis and the second is from our SgtMajor.
Momma Jodi,
Thank you so much for your Christmas present I received today and it was a wonderful surprise. Hope your new years was a great one mine was good no complaints here.
Jodi,
Thank you for your very kind words and thoughts. I have been pretty busy lately, one of our warriors was killed in action a few days before Christmas and we have been busy ensuring that he was properly honored for his sacrifice. Losing one of our brothers is very painful, but his legacy will live on inside all of us. There is a price to bear for freedom, and we are here to bear that burden. We are not alone and we know that, millions of great Americans and a few exceptional Americans like you stand behind us with enormous love and support and for that we are eternally grateful.
I wanted to apologize for not letting you know that I had received some packages from you over the past week or so, I did make sure the care items and goodies got out to the Marines with one exception. That was a very interesting box of chocolates that you sent. That was very thoughtful of you; however, let's not send anymore surprises like that. I almost pushed the box out without checking inside it, which would have made me the greatest SgtMaj ever in the eyes of the boys, and chances are they would have made themselves sick trying to eat enough chocolate to catch a buzz. No big deal, actually pretty humorous.
Thanks for everything, and look forward to hearing from you again,
Semper Fi
Rich
Task Force 1/3
Thank you all for your support in sending boxes to our Heroes. These letters are for you as much as they are for me. May God bless you beyond your wildest imaginations. Have a very wonderful 2009.
Semper Fi,
Comments (2)
From HMH-466 in Iraq
Tue, Dec 9 2008 02:40
| Afghanistan Updates, support, Thanks, Iraq Updates, supporting our heroes, Marines, christmas, Letters from the Home Front, heroes
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Momma Jodi,
Hello, GySgt Malone here from HMH-466 in Iraq. Just wanted to drop you a line and say thank you to you and all who helped to brighten my Marine's day by sending the good stuff out here. The cards were passed out and brought many smiles to my men and women's faces. The kids did a great job on the cards, I would like to send out some stickers or something if I could. Please let me know how many you would need and I will do my best to get some for the kids. Thanks again for thinking of us out here, take care and God Bless!
Gy Malone (Shannon)
This is my crew, I am on the far left, thanks again!
Wed, Jun 25 2008 01:11
| Iraq Updates
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I love getting these messages. I know why I am doing what I am doing and I know it is costing a lot to do it, BUT when I read these letters it reinforces the HEART REASON I am doing what I do. And to all of you who are helping with your donations of money and supplies, THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! from the bottom of my heart and THANK YOU EVEN MORE THAN THAT from the MARINES receiving the benefit of your efforts and gifts . . . .
Semper Fi and God Bless,
Jodi
(via any Marine) Major Bourland, 2/24 Weaps
24 June
Gang, first and most important, thank you all for your support. Mail has been hit or miss with air delivery but, hey, some is better than than none.. Don't be discouraged, though, it will get here eventually (like 2 days before we go home.. just kidding)
We have been making a nice meal out of the care packages we do get. Our Diets of Doritos, tail mix and easy open cans of Chef Boy R D are pretty good when you are hungry. Heat not required, you have the almighty sun 2 inches from your blaring face (it was only 117 today) I have lost 30 pounds and none of my close fit any more... Great.. not. Trying to pack on the calories, I have resorted to a full attack diet of MRE's. You are supposed to get around 2000 calories from each of these things but it's all in the delivery of the meal. Hey, don't knock it until you try it or are so freaking hungry you can eat a dead cat in the road.. here kitty, kitty.
It was a tough decision today as I looked into the dirt filled leftovers in the cardboard MRE box, chicken and vegetables and noodles in some really kind of funky smelling sauce with mushrooms, or, the ever not so favorite Cajun meat(do they WANT me to explode?) or Jambalaya.. yes the stuff with the seafood.. in a bag... for a year or so. Okay, It looks like it's chicken and veggies. As the chicken heated up in the almighty chemical heater pouch that took a layer off the skin of my hand it was so hot, I inhaled a small bag of pretzels. Tasty I thought.. Should have washed my hands, though, as the post thought goes through my head after I have shaken about 30 Iraqis hands recently. Grab the cracker packet that came in the pouch and pummeled them into crumbs "BAM" , this is the key to be mixed with the chicken and then, finally mash the cheese spread packet in it. BAM.. because everyone knows you can choke down anything with cheese on it ... and maybe ketchup, salt and pepper.
SO now everything is in place as you cut the envelope holding the hotter than the sun chicken and smell the omniscient fresh chicken smell fill the room. That's not chicken I smell though as the Marine in the next room just did a "crop dusting" ... gassing. For the love of GOD, Man, take that outside and burn your clothes and bleach your body all over until that dead animal smell goes away. This is the part where the women really love us fellas ! Booooya !
Crackers smashed and poured into chicken "BAM" , eyes still burning from the recent gas attack but no need for a gas mask jus yet as I tell myself "I'm tuff, I can take it" in a high pitched voice. Wait, now I can't find my dang spoon. Never leave your spoon around while eating, often your best buddy will accidentally pick it up (because he lost his) or, y ou may set in mice poo or something that is never good. This is bad, no spoon means that I have to eat this like a dot eating food out of a bowl . Yes, I have done it, no I am not proud of it but will do it again. Wait, found it, it was in my pocket .. swhoo. Chemicals now continue to rise out of the MRE heater pouch combined with the recent gas attack, we might have a little problem. The first bite is a little off, perhaps dumping the small bag of highly melted M&M's into it will do the trick.. nope, that didn't work well and now the heat has caused a very bad looking chicken to turn worse.. with cheese, crackers and M&M syrup sprinkled on it. Too bad, it's "what's for dinner" as the commercial says. Second bite is delayed due to the two flies that thought they rated chow more than me as they did a drive by spoon pooping on the bite. Death to all flies, I say to myself. YUM.. and take the bite
The meal has now hit my stomach and began it's 3X expansion in the size completely attracting all water out of the other parts of my body. Why does my head hurt. Wipe hand off with sanitize napkin next to the quarter size "toilet paper" pkg which is only enough TP to really see a grown man make a complete mess. Begin to pick up the several empty envelopes of chow that will most likely stick to your butt if you don't pick them up. Not a real symbol of authority (insert visual here) Stuff everything back into the jumbo bullet stopping plastic bag this heart attack meal came in and encourage with a manly size 12 foot to flatten.. again, "BAM" . Tell your kids to eat their dinner tonight or they get "what's for dinner" from Maj Pain.
Thanks again for all of the support and chow
TAKE A LOOK AT THE LIVING QUARTERS OUR MARINES HAVE.
AND KEEP IN MIND THE 117* HEAT THE MAJOR MENTIONS.
COULD YOU WEAR ALL OF THIS STUFF IN 117* HEAT?
I'M NOT SURE I COULD DO IT.
Wed, Jun 18 2008 07:53
| Iraq Updates
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12 June - 2008 (Al Anbar, Iraq)
I'd like to share a piece of an e mail that I recently responded to. One of my good friends asked me why I felt such pride to be a Marine. Below is my response. I think this accurately captures why Marines do what we do here
"You asked me why I enjoy being a Marine so much. Being a Marine is all about taking pride in your job. Marines are an intensely proud and motivated lot. You won't hear too many Marines complain about being in Iraq too long like a few of our sister services do. To give an example, the other day I found out that we had to send a few Marines back early to get everything ready for our return to the states. I asked my clerk Cpl Soto if he'd like to go back early. He thought for a moment and said "nah, 1st Sgt, I like it here just fine". These young men are absolutely phenomenal. Let me give you some idea about how Marine are viewed by others :
1.. In 1950 President Truman sent a special envoy to observe the Marines fighting in Korea. This envoy was General Frank Lowe, an Army General. Truman disliked the Marine Corps and thought we were a waste of money. He sent Lowe to spy on us and report back. Upon his return, Gen Lowe reported the following to the president "The safest place in all Korea was behind a platoon of Marines - lord how they could fight"
2.. After the Marines' spectacular landing at Inchon, General Macarthur (another opponent of the Marine Corps) stated, "I have just returned from visiting the Marines at the front and there is no finer fighting organization in the world"
3.. I was recruited out of SE Kentucky. There was this Japanese guy that was recruited with me. He got a visa to come to the States and join the Marines. When I asked him why, he said "every one in Japan knows that the United States Marine Corps is the toughest fighting unit in the world"
4.. I went to boot camp with a Russian who said the same thing. He said that every Russian knew how tough U.S. Marines were. This was during the cold war by the way. When American's current and former enemies have that much regard for Marines that really says something.
5.. During WW 1 at the Battle of Belleau Wood, the Germans nicknamed us "Teuffel Heunden (translated devil dog) because of the tough fight with the Marines there.
You asked me what makes a Marine. Pride, tradition, sense of belonging, brotherhood and camaraderie all make a Marine special. No other service has those things.
Please don't misunderstand me, all of our service men and women offer a huge personal sacrifice in the service to their country but the Marines are different.
Throughout history, Marines have continuously answered the nation's call with spectacular results. Everyone knows and fears Marines. That's pretty special. I have a tremendous sense of pride to serve with each and every one of these outstanding young men. They are truly awesome !!
P.S. - The picture I've attached was taken yesterday. This is what a dust storm (not to be confused with sand storm - that's different) looks like. We call them 'snow days' for good reason. The look white when one of these sets in.
r/s 1stSgt Charles Wells
Weapons Company First Sergeant
3rd Bn, 4th Marines, RCT-5
Al Anbar, Iraq
"A good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan executed next week." - Patton
I'd like to share a piece of an e mail that I recently responded to. One of my good friends asked me why I felt such pride to be a Marine. Below is my response. I think this accurately captures why Marines do what we do here
"You asked me why I enjoy being a Marine so much. Being a Marine is all about taking pride in your job. Marines are an intensely proud and motivated lot. You won't hear too many Marines complain about being in Iraq too long like a few of our sister services do. To give an example, the other day I found out that we had to send a few Marines back early to get everything ready for our return to the states. I asked my clerk Cpl Soto if he'd like to go back early. He thought for a moment and said "nah, 1st Sgt, I like it here just fine". These young men are absolutely phenomenal. Let me give you some idea about how Marine are viewed by others :
1.. In 1950 President Truman sent a special envoy to observe the Marines fighting in Korea. This envoy was General Frank Lowe, an Army General. Truman disliked the Marine Corps and thought we were a waste of money. He sent Lowe to spy on us and report back. Upon his return, Gen Lowe reported the following to the president "The safest place in all Korea was behind a platoon of Marines - lord how they could fight"
2.. After the Marines' spectacular landing at Inchon, General Macarthur (another opponent of the Marine Corps) stated, "I have just returned from visiting the Marines at the front and there is no finer fighting organization in the world"
3.. I was recruited out of SE Kentucky. There was this Japanese guy that was recruited with me. He got a visa to come to the States and join the Marines. When I asked him why, he said "every one in Japan knows that the United States Marine Corps is the toughest fighting unit in the world"
4.. I went to boot camp with a Russian who said the same thing. He said that every Russian knew how tough U.S. Marines were. This was during the cold war by the way. When American's current and former enemies have that much regard for Marines that really says something.
5.. During WW 1 at the Battle of Belleau Wood, the Germans nicknamed us "Teuffel Heunden (translated devil dog) because of the tough fight with the Marines there.
You asked me what makes a Marine. Pride, tradition, sense of belonging, brotherhood and camaraderie all make a Marine special. No other service has those things.
Please don't misunderstand me, all of our service men and women offer a huge personal sacrifice in the service to their country but the Marines are different.
Throughout history, Marines have continuously answered the nation's call with spectacular results. Everyone knows and fears Marines. That's pretty special. I have a tremendous sense of pride to serve with each and every one of these outstanding young men. They are truly awesome !!
P.S. - The picture I've attached was taken yesterday. This is what a dust storm (not to be confused with sand storm - that's different) looks like. We call them 'snow days' for good reason. The look white when one of these sets in.
r/s 1stSgt Charles Wells
Weapons Company First Sergeant
3rd Bn, 4th Marines, RCT-5
Al Anbar, Iraq
"A good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan executed next week." - Patton
Mon, Jun 9 2008 06:59
| Iraq Updates
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This is why I do what I do! God is certainly "Supporting Our Heroes" how on earth could I do any less. This came from Dianne, in Tampa FL.
Date:
June 9, 2008 4:52:28 PM CDT
Subject:
Hello from Capt Matory, Golf 2/3
Dearest Dianne,
I know this message is pretty late considering the wonderful support you and your people have shown Golf 2/3 but we just recently took over an area that had email. While I always try to impress upon Your Marines that email is a "lazy" form of communication and that writing a letter and mailing it is always preferred when connecting with family and friends back home, I have found that I myself have just got to use email to ensure that folks back home know what is going on.
Also, I am not sure if you are aware, but due to our lack of email and internet, I failed to keep up with the Any Marine program so you are actually our sole supporter at this time. I am not sure how your organization works but if you can no longer support us I understand. We getting to the end of our deployment and they will actually be sending our mail to Hawaii beginning in Mid-July.
I wanted to take an opportunity to let you know how important your contribution has been to the Golf Company. I am sure you are following developments in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan but Iwanted to let you know how important the donations have been to our little part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the best way to do it is to tell you about something that happened very recently.
At about 6 AM one day I got a call in my office that something very bad had happened. Of course, I cannot say exactly what happened but what I can say is that the incident had a negative effect on the many good things Golf Company is doing where we are.
By 9 AM I was standing in a home that had been nearly destroyed the night before and was listening to more than a few angry villagers. All I could do was apologize. I had nothing to give these people except for my time. I don't carry money with me and whatever money I would be able to give them would really not be enough. There are only so many ways to say "I am sorry" in Arabic but, there are plenty of ways to express how upset the Iraqis were at us at the time.
After a few more hours a number of children entered the home and the situation became more uncomfortable. I don't like getting yelled at in front of children. I really don't like any yelling or confrontation in front of these kids...they have seen enough.
After standing there a little while longer, I had an idea. These people need water. I had bottled water in my Humvee. I ordered my men to give them our water. That helped a little.
I asked my Marines if there was anything else we could give the families. All we had left was our mail.
I went to my vehicles to look at the mail, instinctively looking/hoping to see if there was a package from our friend Dianne Villano. Behold, there were three packages! Two were for kids and another had writing pads and pens!
Seeing this, I took the notepads outside and asked the kids to follow me. The yelling continued inside, but I ignored it. Waiting for all the kids to follow me I sat down on the patio and began writing the ABCs on the pads. All Iraqi kids begin to take English Lessons at a relatively early age so all of them either need practice on their ABCs but if you can imagine even pens and paper are very hard to come by in the rural areas in which we work.
To make a long story, short, a simple thing like pens and paper helped me to diffuse a very tense situation. By the end of the day, all was fine in this little village because of three packages we received from Tampa Bay.
Your packages really helped the Marines look good on a very bad day in Iraq.
I will send photos in the next email when I have a better email connection.
Thank you very much!
Semper Fidelis,
Capt Bill Matory
Sat, Jun 7 2008 12:19
| Iraq Updates
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Date:
June 6, 2008 7:48:50 PM CDT
Subject:
Major Bourland Is On A Roll.. 2/24 checking in
We have been conducting several operations in the area. Badguys, unm you should find a new profession because your days are numbered, no really you should head for the mountains. Maybe Afghanistan?? They have mountains there. I'll put in a good word for you with a couple hundred of my close Marine buddies there.
Last week there we were on a patrol, following some warm foot prints on the trail, sweat salt in the eyes, body armor pulling at your muscles in your back, thin layer of dirt covering all of your exposed skin and we got a nice calling card from Mr Scumbag. A nice IED that scratched our truck. OK maybe a bit more than scratched but every one was good to go but pissed. Not the kind of pissed when you step in a pile dog shit that your neighbors dog left but the "I'm gonna enjoy gutting you boy"
(From the Movie - The Rock)
kind of pissed, with an evil smile. I'm sure Mr Scum bag got a cheap ass chuckle from watching a black cloud engulf the armored truck but I bet he wasn't laughing when the attack helos showed up. What? Ahhhh you didn't like that so much my little scumbag buddy? Meet Mr Hellfire rocket. That's right you got a couple thousand dollars of hate and discontent filled with military grade explosive pointed at you. Oh look at that we have 8 rockets in the air today. Yes, those are the really big ones that are laser guided and very distinctive when hauling through the sky at you. Now you have met the "dirt people", some call us Marines. Choose whatever word you like, just remember we look good in our uniform and we'll kick you ass too!
A couple of my Marines shoot the shit with me as the normal duties of the day pass as we bare the 112 temps. You know the kind of guys that would wreck their dads car and try to fix it themselves or the ones that think everyone has gun racks in their truck at home. (What, you don't?)Yes, and of course the ones who you glance at real quick and they hit you with this shit eating grin that says , "I didn't do it". You know they are up to something but its probably better if you don't know. These are the early 20 year olds I would take a bullet for, no doubt.
Here in Iraq they are the glue that holds the villages together, the kindness that brings medical attention and the ones that breathe fire when you try to blow them up. Back in the states they are the kid that you know that lived next door but lost track of, "little billy?" that use to bag your groceries and the brother or dad you know like the back of your hand. Yes, where do we get these guys I ask myself as we clear/search 15 football size blocks of potential bad guys in overflowing sewer areas, mount up and conduct vehicle check points with a smile.
Don't worry for a second about them getting attacked. Are they protected? yes. Are they trained? hell yes! do they take the fight to the enemy? well I wish you could ask the enemy on that one. We often do the job of several with only seven, but they are a magnificent seven! Semper Fidelis.
THANK ALL OF YOU THAT HAVE CONTINUED TO SEND US CARE PKGS AND FOR THOSE WHO HAVE JUST BEEN ADDED TO THIS EMAIL LIST. EVERY TIME OUR SEMI-WEEKLY MAIL RUN ARIVES THE MARINES GROUP AROUND LIKE ITS CHRISTMAS-THANK YOU FOR BRINGING THEM ALOT OF COMFORT-SEMPER FI
Wed, Jun 4 2008 12:45
| Iraq Updates
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Via Any Marine Website:
03 June - Friends and family members of Weapons Company,
It's been a long week but I find myself once again writing my weekly post. Our Marines have done so much this week that it's hard to decide what to tell you about. I spent the week with one of my platoons that I don't normally see a lot because they are quite a distance from me. These warriors are counted among the most proficient and dedicated in the battalion. When I arrived at their position, I began talking to them about re enlistments. Right now, the moral in our company is very high and we have a lot of young men who want to "stay Marine".
I hadn't been talking to the Marines long when another young Marine came in and said, "1st Sgt, we jut got an EOD call. Would you like to come with us?" I couldn't refuse. This was a chance to see these young Spartans in action. We donned our heavy gear and headed out into the scorching heat. Less than 5 minutes passed from the moment that we received the call until we were rolling toward the cache site.
Today's treasure trove of explosives was a few rockets that had been discovered on a small farm on the outskirts of a city. Farms are ea favorite place to bury caches for the bad guys. The ground is normally softer there and the freshly turned earth sometimes goes unnoticed. For today's work, the EOD team brought out several blocks of c 4 explosive. Marine and Navy EOD teams are very good at what they do so it's always great fun to watch them destroy a weapons cache. They take great pride in their work and you can see the sparkle in their eyes when they've finished a job.
As our security convoy arrived at the cache site, we took up positions to ensure that no Iraqi civilians wondered into the danger zone before the blast. I rode in vehicle number 4 which was commanded by Sgt Kirk Hermannskullberg - we call him "Kullberg" for short. This bear of a man makes our humvee appear smaller when he climbs in. Sitting behind him, I can barely see out the windshield. As we take up our position, Sgt K steps out and surveys our sector with his binoculars. He then starts to point out landmarks and places nearby where they had recently found other weapons caches. Sgt K is good at his job and enjoys doing it. He is a Marine that you can't help feel safe around. He's intense, demanding and competent. Couple these with his enormous size and you can't help but respect him. He's just on a long list of superb Marines that are part of his platoon.
We stood in the searing sun waiting for EOD to destroy the cache. Once the deed was done, we proceeded back to base. It's always nice to ride along with these boys and see what exceptional Marines they truly are. The Marine Corps has built some of the finest Americans that I know. These Marines know that they're making a huge difference here and they take great pride in that fact.
Thank you so much for pride and support of our Marines as well. You play a big role in what we do here - Thank you
1st Sgt Charles Wells
Tue, Jun 3 2008 08:08
| Iraq Updates
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From:
Dianne Villano
Date:
June 3, 2008 3:06:36 PM CDT
Subject:
3/4 Weaps Co Checking in.. HQ Plt this time ...
None of this, of course would be possible without each and every one of you :) Thanks for your continued support!
Classification:
UNCLASSIFIED
Dear Dianne,
First of all, let me start off by telling you how grateful we are for your support. My name is Corporal Soto, and this is my second deployment to Iraq. I served with First Sergeant Bass last deployment with CAAT 2 (Last deployment, we were known as Mobile Assault Platoon 2). For this deployment, I am with the Headquarters Platoon in Weapons Company serving under First Sergeant Wells.
This year Weapons Company is spread thin throughout the Al Anbar Province. All five platoons within the company (Headquarters Platoon, CAAT 1 Platoon, CAAT 2 Platoon, 81’s Platoon and Sniper Platoon) are all thankful for your support. We greatly appreciate the time and effort you have put toward the support of the war.
You may or may not know this, but when you send a package for a Marine, it really brightens their day. The items in the packages such as toys and snacks are usually given to the local Iraqi kids. By sending these items, you help strengthen our relations with the Iraqi people allowing them to feel more comfortable with coalition forces working with them. Without your support we couldn’t possibly reach out to the people of Iraq and help them as much.
Packages that we receive from you maintain troop morale, keep our spirits high, and remind us that we are supported by the people ofAmerica. That reason alone allows us to continue our fight with Honor, Courage, and Commitment.
As I close this letter, let me once again thank you for the support and thought that you had put into each of these packages. We hope to hear from you again soon.
Sincerely,
Corporal Alfredo Soto
3rd Bn, 4th Mar
Weapons Company Clerk
Headquarters Platoon
Tue, Jun 3 2008 08:07
| Iraq Updates
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From:
Dianne Villano
Date:
June 3, 2008 3:39:33 PM CDT
Subject:
Comments and Thoughts From Maj Bourland ... 2/24
- "Eighteen American soldiers died in May, the lowest total of the war and an 86 percent drop from the 126 who died in May 2007."
·
It will be an interesting campaign if the Dems continue to pull the get out of Iraq because we are losing schpeel - - just wonder if any journalist will have the guts to say, "Um, excuse me, last we checked, we're winning."
·
The surge didn't work in Iraq…………….no really, they said that, or should I say continue to say that.
Local Sheiks in our area have continued to tell of stories about how life was with Al-Qaida present. The evil that existed and now, its not a new way of life, it's a new era. Economy growing, shops opening, insurgents are now the outcast, not the shop owner, not the Iraqi Policeman, the insurgents. I remember how it was on my previous deployments; it was not a good way of life for any of the above, except for the enemy. Now things are back in the peoples hands. Why can't some Americans see this? Why can't they see the growth of the Iraq's, their leadership taking steps, their cohesion? May be those that deny it see it but ignore it. The insurgents see this, and they hate it. Maybe a letter from one insurgent to another would read like this.
Dear fellow scumbag, how is your mother?
Oh yes that's right you killed her. Any ways I was looking to find that prime spot to plant that IED in the city yesterday you know that hole your cousin dug last week just before he pre-detonated?? Any way I couldn't help but notice those dang Marines are everywhere, what is an insurgent to do? I can't even go get my insurgent unemployment card because they are in all of the streets. Arrrghh!!
I was trying to intimidate the local sheik but he told me to come by this afternoon to see him and when I got near his village. AArrrgghhh more Marines. You don't think he was trying to trick me do you? No of course not I am too intimidating for that…right? I remember the old times when we could scare the silly Americans with threats, but those days are gone my fellow scumbag. AArrgghh! Now I have this silly IED vest on that your brother made, you know I have to tell you he isn't all that smart, there is, no kidding explosives in this thing. I mean I could be getting out of my car smoking a cigarette looking at the new line of sheep in the area and boom dang detonator gets hung on the seat belt.
Did I mention its cumbersome, how do I tend your funeral wearing this? It doesn't go with my latest attire. AAArrgghh. Well I must go my fiend, those pesky Marines are approaching and I have to run before they come here and I snag my fashionable detonator on the door handle on the way out. It will ruin the carpet…..AArrrgghh..
Fri, May 30 2008 05:52
| Iraq Updates
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Date:
May 30, 2008 2:34:26 PM CDT
Subject:
Updates from 1st Sgt Wells & The 3/4
Greetings to all the friends and family of Weapons Company 3/4. I would like to take a moment to update you on what your Marines have been doing in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This year, the way in Iraq has proven to be a very different challenge than what we have historically seen. Now, the fight here has shifted from a high intensity fight to a low intensity campaign. now are Marines are fully engaged in assisting the locals in establishing safe neighborhoods and restoring infrastructure and building a strong government. By helping our Iraqi neighbors to build strong stable communities, the Marines of Weapons Company are ensuring that the insurgency will not regain a foothold once we leave.
One of the missions that Weapons Company routinely carries out is finding and destroying IED's and weapons caches. It takes a lot of manpower, time and money to get a lot of the sophisticated explosives into Iraq that some of the insurgents are using now. Anytime we find a destroy a cache, it makes it harder on the insurgency to carry out their fight against Coalition Forces. I get a great satisfaction in seeing the big, beautiful plume of smoke as it climbs skyward after a big weapons cache is demolished. Of course, the Marine side of me just likes seeing things go "BOOM". This week, Weapons Company was actively engaged in assisting EOD in detonating several large weapons caches. Weapons company has a symbiotic relationship with EOD. We provide security for them while they blow up the caches that we find. Our travels with EOD take us to new and exciting places. Each of these EOD Marines have been in the Marine Corps for less than 8 years but they have the lives of 15 young men in their care. A mistake on their part could cost lives.
Your Marines have truly represented their country well. Please take a moment to drop these marines a post card or just a few kind words from home. It makes their day to see that someone back home is thinking about them. I post your letters and cards in a place where all the Marines can see them. I can't count the amount of times that I have caught a young Marine just staring at the letters. For some of these young patriots, you are their only link to home. Some of them have very little family if any at all. Some of these Marines have received no packages in the nearly 3 months that we have been in Iraq. Thanks to you and the wonderful packages that have begun to arrive here, these Marines are seeing how much you all back home really appreciate their service.
Thank you and God Bless You
R/s 1st Sgt Wells
"Freedom is not free, but the U.S. Marine Corps will pay most of your share" -
Ned Dola
n
Tue, May 27 2008 07:23
| Iraq Updates
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Dianne is a Personal Trainer in Tampa, FL who connected me with the Unit of Marines in Iraq that I 'adopted' and am sending the Support Boxes to.... Jodi
For those of you who know what I do for a living, you will understand why I find this so funny :) I am also attaching a fantastic picture :) Thanks for your support and for helping me to bring a ray of sunshine to a pretty bleak place! We are doing great things and I couldn't do it without your help !!
update from Maj. Bourland .. well, sorta
We have cracked the code to all of your unwanted weight gains. Combat Out Post Hades! Aka Club Hades. Yes, that's right for only a short duration (7 months) in Hades you can loose unthinkable amounts of undesirable weight. We won't have to thrash you in true Marine Corps fashion to get you to loose those unwanted pounds, NOOOOO will simply let you hang out with us.
Sorry, no TV or many social events scheduled in Hades just long days and plentiful sunshine and heat. So all of you Salsa dancers are out of luck because you're going on patrol. Perfect form fitting body armor (not) and fashionable Kevlar helmets are the rage, all the cool kids are wearing them. You will begin your weigh loss program feeling the cool 95 degree sun rays beating down on you around 5 AM. By 0800 it will be over 110. Don't fret that silly hot air blowing in your face, it helps with the skin cleansing sand paper factor. Here at Hades we encourage large amounts of water consumption otherwise, you will die. Frankly our fist aide and mouth to mouth isn't all what its cracked up to be so when you go vertical from your kidneys shutting down, you are on your own.
Eating isn't a real problem, oh we have plenty of chow, T-Rats and MREs are the rage and for fine cuisine we will BBQ spiced with the nature dirt that adds minerals to your system (as if you haven't already been eating enough dirt). Don't worry about fist size proportions because of the heat you really wont feel like eating and you gut will be full of water.
To ensure you get your minimal exercise, a couple brisk laps around COP Hades will ensure those hard to lose sections will be burnt off. Just about the time the sun crazy dog decides to chase you from the local village your heart rate will automatically shoot up and the pounds will slip away……….or you get bit. Rabies isn't that bad (snicker) . To add to your basic beginner workout we wouldn't want to cheat you out of your experience so not if, but when, the sand fleas begin feasting on your flesh, your continuous scratching of your skin until it's raw will tone and shape your already slim body enhancing that "Hey I'm super thin, I must have a parasite" physique look. You will be the envy at every cocktail party!
Sleep is for the cub scouts so as you are burning the midnight hours, our scientifically M&M coffee brewed combination will escalate your sugar levels through the ceiling. Now that's a supplement to experience at Club Hades AND its free. But remember, you kill the "joe" YOU make some MO! We don't require you to purchase a membership or spend your money on high priced "required" supplements, oh no, eat that snicker bar before it melts, your life may depend on it!! Just in case you have that extra hard to lose weight loss problem our genetically cultured poop flies will most likely land on your chow, face, mouth and try to fly up your nose on several occasions throughout the day and they bring that special punch that will keep you running to the restroom a couple times a day. See you're already losing your appetite and weight reading this! Your welcome! That's the least we can do for you at Club Hades, so join now!
Time for a Cigar, M&Ms and coffee!!!
Wed, May 21 2008 07:27
| Iraq Updates
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Friends and family of Weapons Company, this has been a great week! Today we received our first round of packages from some of you. The Marines poured through the contents immediately and, I am happy to say that there was not a single item untouched. The boys loved the pictures and notes that some of you included in your boxes. It was like a big adventure for some of them to get to open a box. Some of these Marines haven't received a box from anyone yet and we have been here nearly 3 months. Thank you all so much for your support of these patriots. It is truly an honor to serve with each and every one of them.
Weapons company was had a pretty busy week. The Marines are spread out over a large area, so they stay busy. This week the Marines were engaged in conducting a census of a local town. This is always a good opportunity to engage with the locals and speak with them about current issues. If we are in an area long enough, the locals will often slaughter some lambs for us and fix dinner for the Marines. Since coming to Iraq, I have eaten so much lamb that I believe my hair is beginning to curl. The Iraqis love having us here because we provide security for their communities. Security is a commodity that Iraqis never had a lot of under Sadaam. They now see the value of having Marines in their neighborhood and they're quick to show us gratitude. We truly are welcomed here.
Weapons company was had a pretty busy week. The Marines are spread out over a large area, so they stay busy. This week the Marines were engaged in conducting a census of a local town. This is always a good opportunity to engage with the locals and speak with them about current issues. If we are in an area long enough, the locals will often slaughter some lambs for us and fix dinner for the Marines. Since coming to Iraq, I have eaten so much lamb that I believe my hair is beginning to curl. The Iraqis love having us here because we provide security for their communities. Security is a commodity that Iraqis never had a lot of under Sadaam. They now see the value of having Marines in their neighborhood and they're quick to show us gratitude. We truly are welcomed here.
One common site on patrol is hordes of small children. They know that Marines like giving them candy and other goodies so they always flock to the patrols when they see us coming. Though these kids are poor, they are very rich in spirit. They gather around any Marine that will give them some attention. They often come up to us and try to trade little items (like home made slingshots) with the Marines for some of the Marines' equipment. We also enjoy giving them small toys, so, feel free to send one or two each time you send a package.
Our boys really appreciate the support that each of you provide. We realize how much of your tim
e is dedicated to supporting the troops and you make a HUGE difference. Receiving packages from you reminds the Marines that home is still right where they left it. You give them some stability in an area where there is very little to be had - Thank you so much
R/S 1sgt Wells
