From a NJ ARNG Platoon Leader in Southern Iraq, October 2008:
Thank you and the credit unions very much for our "Neck Hug Pillows" they certainly were a major source of comfort for our 30 hour trip from Texas to Iraq! I can honestly say this was the first plane trip without neck pain! Please be sure to thank everyone for us -- we appreciate it avery much.
I am with the NJ National Guard; HHC in Riverdale, NJ, our Platoon operates primarily out side the gates. Our days/nights are very long where days and nights become long. We do have the opportunity to go back to the FOB for mail, mission planning, and to use the Internet. Because our days are so long on missions it is often difficult to write to everyone. I usually am working 21 hours a day, and sleep in that short time is very much needed. The weather is starting to get cooler -- even though cooler means hot -- especially with the added amount of garments and protection we must wear. Hydration and simple carry on the body snacks are key to our existence; it is normal to drink 5 liters of water, 4 Monster ddrinks (to stay alert) and take IV's every day for hydration. Primarily our platoon's source of food is MREs.
Thank you so much for the protein bars! I was told protein is a key source for us to have with the extreme amount of water we are flushing through our kidneys! They have been put out to share with the troops -- a very pleasant surprise and they were needed and will be a great treat as well travelling outside the gate -- our PX is not well stocked -- yet, food is available in the "dining hall" 24 hours a day.
I had a few minutes to check your web site -- I am in awe at the level of support that you have organized with the civilian and community organizations. Knowing that so many people have come together to not forget us and let us know we are cared about -- has a hge impact on our morale. Trust me, with the sights I am seeing I can understand why so many of us Soldiers "Kiss the ground" when we land back in the USA. There are times, I wished the average American can see what we see, the devastation, the desertion of children in the villages -- children run the length of two football fields to greet us -- waving their hands to touch the hand of an American GI. Though for a second we feel like heroes, we are also shocked at what we see. I could not imagine an average American child living in these conditions, no food, shelter, little clothing -- yet they greet us with huge warm smiles! We are truly honored to be able to make a difference while we are here in Iraq -- we have a long way to go before we return home; and the bottom line for me right now is making a difference in the lives of these children, who are future adults, they have have hope for a better tomorrow, while at the same time keeping those inside the gates secure to return home to their families.
Please do KNOW that letters and cards help us to pass time as we spend countless hours in the desert; know that your care packages do wrap us with the warmth of the American spirit. Though we know the Media will not report on the many accomplishments that we have made in this impoverished Nation, we know you will share with those who care -- how much the American spirit is appreciated. God Bless, Sincerely, 1LT Brett R., NJ ARNG, Iraq, 10-08
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