I pray for a safe stay and passage for all soldiers and myself as I go back again Dec 30th for a year. Although I may not agree with our reasons for being there I do believe I have a obligation to fufill while I'm serving and so I have volunteered for a year long rotation out there to replace soldiers that have been out there longer than I was. I do believe that as a soldier you must come to terms with the reality of situations such as these and try not to let them discourage you from completing the mission/task at hand. I had seen some pretty grotesque things there while I was there during the war, and had puked from the smell of the burnt and roasted bodies.

Its not something I want to remember, but I doubt I'll ever be able to forget. Attrocities and things such as what was stated above are unfortunately a frequent during wartime. War brings out the best and worst of men.

Best of luck to you, Ripped Bag. I have a very close friend who's headed over in March and another who just returned a few days ago. Take care of yourself--I believe you are doing an honorable service, and I am grateful for people like you.

Hey Ripped Bag, be careful out there man, I have a lot of respect for all those serving in the armed forces, wished and hope that security in Iraq will be much more stable with time.

___________________
Trance = Heart, Mind, Body and Soul all in 1

Current fav. Global Experience = Madras

Best of luck out there Ripped Bag, show a few iraqi's some good ole' Texan hospitality while you're there, we can start the peace there one person at a time. Seriously though I too have much respect for you all serving there... hope your time there passes with ease

___________________
If God is the answer, it must have been a very stupid question.

RB - best of luck to you. Godspeed and come home soon.

Opus1

___________________
Whence September dusk grows crisper still,
with leaves all crimson conquered,
I yearn to shout,
and dance about,
and stick pickles in my honker...

Yes, I am in awe of your civic responsibility and your sense of obligation to fellow soldiers for volunteering to go back after already fighting in the war. Good luck and be safe.

___________________
Retro ...

Best of luck Ripped Bag, and stay safe. What division etc are you in?

___________________
http://www.discoboomer.com/forums/