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DEL.ICIO.USKilling field belies pastoral setting
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mahmudiyah, Iraq — The droning sound of swarming flies gave the soldiers their first sign they were approaching a human dumping ground.
As a group of 10 Georgia Army National Guard soldiers walked along a narrow dirt road at the edge of a farm field near sunset, the pastoral setting was reminiscent of just about anywhere in the central or southern part of their home state.
Doves and swallows flitted overhead and a white egret walked stealthily along the overgrown edges of an irrigation canal, looking for frogs, fish or other prey.
These soldiers couldn’t be sure whether they were the hunters or the hunted on this orange evening. Earlier Thursday, soldiers patrolling this same area became targets for insurgent mortars and guns.
Now, with their own weapons drawn, they followed a set of fresh tire tracks along the canal. The tracks ended where the cloud of black flies began.
“This one looks like he’s been here for awhile, maybe a few weeks,” said Staff Sgt. Sean Sibert, 36, a leathery-skinned former landscaper from Martinez, as he surveyed the headless, decomposing body of an adult male on the muddy bank of the canal below.
Then, turning to his left, he pointed out another shallow grave. A few steps beyond, he knelt at a fresh pool of blood and a knotted leather belt.
“They bound this guy’s hands with his own belt before they killed him,” Sibert said. “Then they dumped him in the canal, too.”
The soldiers found eight bodies before dusk. They suspect scores more may be concealed by tall grass and weeds in the rural killing field south of Baghdad. Other soldiers aren’t so sure and guess the corpses they saw are the only ones they’re going to see at this quiet, horrid place.
They planned to go back the following day, or the day after that, to perform a more thorough search. But this isn’t CSI Baghdad, and no one really expects to solve the mystery of what happened to these people, or even identify them.
Two months into their year-long deployment in the so-called Sunni Triangle of Death south of Baghdad, soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 108th Armor Regiment have already recalibrated their internal cruelty meters to the point that a mere eight executions is all in another day’s work.
In the United States, such a grisly discovery would be national news.
In Iraq, it’s a Thursday.
On the short drive back to their military home at Forward Operating Base Michael, the soldiers debated whether their find amounted to a “mass” grave.
How many bodies does it take to reach the “mass” threshold?
Do the bodies have to be buried to be a grave, or does just dumping them count?
They agreed 100 would qualify. Maybe 50. At least double figures. Probably not eight.
The mood on the ride home was strangely upbeat, as if the soldiers weren’t affected by the horror they had just witnessed.
Spc. Jeremy Greer, the irreverent scout driving the lead Humvee, smiled and waved at Iraqis congregating outside their homes near the execution site.
“How you doing, neighbor!” he’d say as the four-vehicle convoy drove past. “Betcha didn’t know about all the killing going on right in your own neighborhood. Did you?”
The Humvee’s bullet-proof windows were up, and no one could have heard Greer’s sarcastic comments over the din of their diesel engines.
Unlike other soldiers who load their vehicles with ice chests full of cold drinks, Greer and his fellow scouts stuff theirs with extra weapons. A spare shotgun, a rocket launcher designed to destroy suicide car bombs, even a sling-shot, jostled around the rear of their Humvee as it sped along rutted, rural roads.
The gunner, Staff Sgt. Jeremy Davison, tried to use the sling-shot as a non-lethal means of warning Iraqi drivers to stay away from U.S. convoys. But the toy didn’t have enough range, so he’s reverted to using heavy-duty weapons like the .50-caliber machine gun mounted in a turret atop the vehicle.
Each shot sounds like a lightning crack, and Davison, 35, of Marietta, let fly with about six single shots during the 40-minute round trip to the killing field and back.
“I wanted to use the sling-shot for warning shots,” he said. “But it can’t keep the cars far enough away. The gun sure gets their attention, though.”
Sibert, the sergeant who led two different groups of soldiers to the dead bodies Thursday, said concentrating on the military mission keeps his mind off questions like who the murdered people were, what their lives were like, or who misses them after their lives were taken so mercilessly.
Was each of them somebody’s everything?
“If you don’t personalize it, you can do your job and go on,” Sibert said. “It hurts to know that there’s nothing we can do to help the people at the bottom of that ditch. But the security of my people is paramount. Everything I do in this country is meant to bring them all home alive.”
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Beverly Wiggins
July 8, 2005 12:10 PM | Link to this
The things you write about are hard to hear, but NECESSARY! My son never tells of such things when he calls home. He just says “I’m Fine”. I think we all need to know what’s really behind those words. Just a reminder to the Troops….YOU ARE THE GOOD GUYS…FIGHTING THE BAD GUYS…IN A JUST WAR! PSALM 91 Guys!
“MOM”
By Joan Ballenger
July 8, 2005 12:57 PM | Link to this
My son John was injured Tuesday night and is in the intensive care ward of the Baghdad Hospital in the green zone. He is with the scouts of the 48th Brigade, 108th Army. After exploratory surgery last night it has been told to us by the Army contact that he has traumatic bruising and will remain there for a couple more days. We are hoping to hear from him. Thank God that he is going to be ok. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.
By adk
July 8, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this
i was one of the unfortunate soldiers to be called out to the grave site. i also don’t know if it qualifies to be considered “mass” or not, but that doesn’t seem at all important. it’s true that we don’t seem bothered by such brutality, and also that it’s just another day in iraq. i do, however, wish to inform readers that we, or atleast most of us, are still human beings, with families and friends alike. all of this does bother us, we just push it aside. when we are out on patrol it is not the time or place to let emotions take over. back in the rear, however, we speak more openly on what we see and do, and depend on each other a great deal for support. we miss our loved ones very much, and know that each body we find, or each person killed by a car bomb is trully “somebody’s everything”. please remember this when you read such news, because we hope you never have to see such news.
adk
By Virginia Patterson
July 8, 2005 02:29 PM | Link to this
Let’s us all remember why these men and women are there to fight a war with the hopes of not ever fighting one here in the states. And to risk their very life so someone else has the opprotunity to live, people they do not even know. My husband is with the 108th; he felt going to Iraq was the right thing to do. Not just his duty for the sake of other human beings above the welfare of himself with the hopes of being able to save many human beings at the risk of not being able to save himself. This comment is from a his wife.
By Jeannie
July 8, 2005 02:40 PM | Link to this
IT is so True that We ARE SOMEONE’S EVERYTHING.. and I am Blessed to know alot of the Scouts with the HHC-108th out of Douglasville, that are doing their JOB-as many would call it.. You don’t have to be attached to Someone from a Unit -TO Support and Love that Unit. Yes, I use to be attached to someone in that Unit- and Well, He is My Best Friend Now- But I will still Do Anything and Everything that I can To Support Him and Many Many Others..
You Never know what you may come across out on a walk, a jog, a run, or even a patrol.. You may never know the answer’s to many question’s you might have, but one thing is for sure—WE ARE SOMEONE’S EVERYTHING weather it was an Iraq person or an American.. Thank you Guys for doing all that you are.. We are also praying for Sgt. Ballenger and hope that he will be just fine… To ALL THE SCOUTS-WITH THE HHC-108th— I KNOW OF ONLY TWO WORDS RIGHT NOW FOR YOU ALL—AS TEARS ROLL DOWN MY FACE— FOR I KNOW ALOT OF YOU ALL PERSONAL—- THANK YOU !!!!!!!! To SPC. CHAD CARTER—or if anyone reading this-see’s him—Please tell him, we do miss him and we hope he is doing well..(olivia faith really misses him/loves him) (Thanks)Jeannie Hayes, Harp, Astuto- take care of him for us.. okay…….
By Warren Powell
July 8, 2005 02:51 PM | Link to this
Our hearts and prayers go out to each and everyone of the brave men and women of the greatest fighting force to ever grace planet earth. We love all of you and wish for your safe return. Warren Powell SRA USAF 1990-1998
By Diane
July 8, 2005 03:13 PM | Link to this
I am humble and forever grateful for what our soldiers do. After the events of yesterday, I have no doubts that you are serving for a just cause. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God speed, God bless you all and your families and thank you.
By cathy g
July 8, 2005 03:18 PM | Link to this
I have a friend currently deployed who tells us of the increase in fighting where he is, and we worry for him, but more than the worry is the pride we feel. He is making a sacrifice that puts him in danger, all for the principles he, and we, believe in! What braver thing could one do than risk their own life for another, especially when so many in this country decry the need. To ALL the brave men and women fighting for us, we believe in you, pray for your safe return, and are humbled by your sacrifice. THANK YOU, God keep you safe until you are back again with us.
By Mona
July 8, 2005 03:50 PM | Link to this
To ADK: I believe most everybody can appreciate that you have a job to do and you can’t let emotions take over. I recognize your humanity to the fullest and would not want to deal with what you have to on a daily basis. I for one commend the professionalism and diligence shown everyday by our guys and thank you for it.
By Terr Barton
July 8, 2005 07:19 PM | Link to this
ADK - Thank you for sharing with us. It adds the missing piece to this story.
By Frances
July 8, 2005 08:56 PM | Link to this
I don’t believe for a second that any of our men and/or women thought that the this scene was just another “Thursday” night. I only hope that their thoughts turn to more joyful scenes when returned to the rear and closing their eyes for the night. May they all keep safe and do what they do so well to complete their missions!
By Army Mom
July 9, 2005 12:16 AM | Link to this
To adk, We know, honey. Please don’t worry about it. We all know you’re doing a hard job and you’re doing it exactly right. Rest your sweet head and know that we love you and we always will.
YOU are “America’s Everything.” We don’t mind if you have to put up a few emotional fences to get your job done.
Also, I think wondering about what constitutes a “mass grave” is a perfectly legitimate debate. Is there some kind of criteria for such a thing? Personally, I think it’s an absolutely natural question. Perhaps there are pre-established guidelines that would apply in this case. Nonetheless, I think you ought not worry about it. Just know that you are loved and appreciated by your grateful nation.
By LAurie
July 9, 2005 02:03 AM | Link to this
I have a saddness in my heart that our young men (the best of the best) are seeing death without dignity. However, remember this is war,I hope they do not let their guard down. They will see more horrors ahead. Handling death of any kind is hard, not going to pieces and keeping each other upbeat is survival. Stay safe and come home soon. We will be here for your return.MOM
By Merri Anne
July 9, 2005 02:02 PM | Link to this
This is a world we, here feeling safe in the States, can barely imagine. My heart goes out to those who died at cold, heartless, cruel hands with no dignity or grace. My heart goes out to all those who are witnessing such carnage and how it will change them for ever as human beings. I remember you each and every day and carry deep in my heart the sacrifices each of you are making.
Peace and strength. Stay safe and know you are loved and there is a Grace greater than anything human tragedy can conceive.
By Mary Sibert
July 9, 2005 02:26 PM | Link to this
To my leather-faced husband….you and everyone out there are doing a great job! I hate to hear that you guys are in harm’s way, i pray for every one over there every day….stay safe, i miss ya, and i love you. come home safe! Love, Mary and Kade
By zephania
July 9, 2005 08:15 PM | Link to this
Soldiers stumbling upon bodies killed and dumped in a field. You say 8 to 10, But how many innocents have been killed by American bombs, tanks and guns? Who knows who killed these found in the field. It could have been carried out by some of our own or even some other allied force or some of the soldiers for hire who are being paid to be hit squads in that region. There’s such a mix and everyone’s out to get their fair share, that no one really knows who is doing what to whom. It’s gotten difficult to tell who the real enemy is.
By Clarence Smith
July 9, 2005 09:49 PM | Link to this
As I read the account of the slaughter of the Iraqis, my thoughts turned to an earlier time and place in Southeast Asia. Many times we found the results of man’s inhumanity. I have puzzled all these years how such atrocities could occur. The only answer I find is that it is confirmation that evil,no matter its name, does exist in the world. It is the immutable obligation of the good men in the world to confront and vanquish that evil. Someone once wrote something about rough and brutish men making it possible for others to sleep in their beds at night. Our soldiers are not rough and brutish but must, as we did in Vietnam and Laos, do what is necessary to preserve freedom and civilization. The barbarism exhibited by those they oppose make the case for opposing them. Let the liberals try to hold hands with the likes of them!!
By TARGET
July 9, 2005 09:57 PM | Link to this
EVERYONE FROM THE TARGET IN CARROLLTON,GA, STORE 1073 WOULD LIKE TO PRAY FOR JOHN BALLENGER ON HIS RECOVERY. JOHN WE LOVE YOU AND WE MISS YOU !! YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR PRAYERS. GET WELL SOON !!! FROM TARGET IN CARROLLTON !!
By psyco
July 10, 2005 07:43 AM | Link to this
in response to some of the comments made about findings from missions. i agree that to an members of the soldiers family shouldn’t be left in the cold. though i would have to say that some things that have been said may be more than the soldiers wanted their family to know. i believe that some information should be held from headlines due to the soldiers families have enough in their minds now. why add the indepth picture of certain crimes and hostile actions to cause frantic worry. its just a thought!!!!!
TO MRS. BALLENGER, I AM A SCOUT ASWELL AND WISH YOU ALL WELL. I KNOW YOU HAVE BEEN RECIEVING GOOD NEWS ON JOHN, BUT LET ME ADD THAT HE IS DOING WELL AND WAS TAKEN OUT OF THE ROOM FOR A STROLL WITH SEVERAL OF US(SCOUTS) YESTERDAY. WE ALL HATED TO LEAVE THE HOSPITOL, BUT JOHN UNDERSTANDS THE MISSION MUST CONTINUE. TAKE CARE AND GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY…
By Mark Eisgruber
July 10, 2005 08:06 AM | Link to this
To the men and women of the GA National Guard - and to all of our men and women serving abroad - I can only say…..Thank you, thank you, thank you.
By jng
July 10, 2005 11:16 AM | Link to this
I am also one of the “IRREVERENT” soldiers on that patrol, and I am glad to hear that we are supported by your comments. There are few words to describe some of the things that we have to do and see while out on patrol. How ever we all know that the people that we come in contact with alive or dead are still that, people! We have to carry on with our mission no matter what happens, and while I am out there I only care about the safety of my crew and myself. We all deal with the things that we see in our own way. Be it through sarcastic humor, just being alone, or talking about it with a fellow crew member. We all know that LIFE is everything, and when we see the bodies of those left behind, it is a humbling and scary reminder of why we are here. While some of us have to live the atrocities of war I am proud to fight for the great nation in the world that allows those to make money off telling the STORIES of it! To my friends and family and the familys of the scouts….That is a basic load of weapons and ammo, but not to worry we have our cooler as well. It was in the back to help make room for a passenger. That we also had to protect with those weapons To my friends, family, HOW YOU DOOING!!! I love you, miss you,and thanks for all your support To my EVERYTHING, I love you little girl, DADDY BE HOME SOON!!!!!!!
By anna
July 10, 2005 12:42 PM | Link to this
To our very brave soldiers: How discouraging it must be to read things like this. I hope each and everyone of you know that we support you back here. I was very sad to read such an article to think what you guys must have to deal with on a daily bases.Please understand it must be very easy to sit back and write things like this knowing that you yourself only have to shoot a camera,your only weapon is a pc. I am very proud of you guys to know that you must find a way to seperate who you are and what you must do over there,to try and come home as unaffected as possible.To the very brave and reverent SPC Jeremy Greer I am so very proud of you keep your spirits up and endure things how you must to come home safely and sane!! I love you
By Another Army Mom
July 10, 2005 03:25 PM | Link to this
Rest easy guys, you are doing your job as stated “exactly right”. Remember always that your loved ones back home are so proud of you. We all support in every way possible.
By Karen
July 10, 2005 03:34 PM | Link to this
Scouts, thanks for your comments. My son is one of you, and while I am so proud of him, I want you to know that I am proud of you all. It is good to hear from you, and not just the reporters. While the news we get from them is great, hearing your points of view is better. We all understand that you do what you have to do. Thanks for keeping us posted on our guys that are ill. Praying for you all daily, no hourly. We love you all. “GO SCOUTS”!
By Kim
July 10, 2005 05:39 PM | Link to this
In response to “zephania”……. I was under the impression that this site was mainly to support our brave men and women. You know, the ones who are fighting this war so that misinformed individuals such as yourself can use your right to say whatever you want!!!!! Apparently not……. so I will use MY right also and say that I am so thankful for each one of you who are over there going through all of this so unselfishly!!!!!! I love each of you and pray for you constantly! To my brother, Sgt. Scott with the 108th , I LOVE YOU amd miss you!! I am so proud of you and what you are doing. Stay safe and stay constantly in prayer!! HOOAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By jessica lawhorn
July 10, 2005 06:30 PM | Link to this
To all the guys over there we miss you and you are in my prayers to come home safe, especially my husband SPC Brandon Lawhorn I LOVE YOU HUNNY.
By Joan Ballenger
July 11, 2005 08:59 AM | Link to this
The latest word on John Ballenger, a Sgt. in the 48th Brigade, is that he is being flown to Germany today. We know he is going to be ok but he will need several weeks for recovery. From what we hear he may get to come home on a medical leave. I can’t wait to get my arms around him! It’s been hard for his dad and I since the reports we’ve been getting are not very informative. We’re so thankful that John is able to call us at least once a day.
By Christine Otis
July 11, 2005 09:39 AM | Link to this
I want to add my thanks to each and every one of our soldiers that are putting their lives on the line daily. My son is in Baghdad, but though his housing may be a bit better, and facilities on the base more, they are under constant gun fire, and he has been involved in fire fights out side the base as well. No matter where they are in Iraq, our troops are putting their lives out there. As we enjoy the “freedoms” we have at home, let us remember that these were bought at a price as well, and NEVER take them for granted. God bless you all, Proud Army Mom of SPC Otis
By Davey
July 11, 2005 05:34 PM | Link to this
There is not a day that goes by that I am not thankful for the men and women that serve our armed forces. The tragedies that engulf the world only define the goodness of life and freedom and that we value those things. My prayers are that our Lord and Savior will protect our troops and the Iraqi people to live and enjoy another day.
By Jenny
July 11, 2005 11:39 PM | Link to this
Just another message of support for all of “our” folks in uniform! The Georgia Guard IS family, and as such, I take offense to anyone who questions the actions or integrity of these brave souls. They are doing this job so that the rest of us can sit back like armchair quarterbacks and say how it should be done. Truth is, they are doing a tremendous job! If they have to make “irreverent” comments to keep their sanity so they can go out again the next day, so be it. This article gave us a better idea of what these folks go through, but I do think the writer could have been a bit more appreciative of the soldiers who had his back through the whole trip. To the soldiers, my heartfelt thanks. May God bless you and keep you safe. You’re in our prayers and in our hearts.
By psyco2
July 12, 2005 01:36 AM | Link to this
“I’m Fine” = “I’m alive” regardless of the words or meaning that many may be searching for behind it. To the men of the 48th and my soldier i love you i miss you, keep in mind this is what your good at not many can do what you do, it takes a big heart to have the world on your shoulders without looking for something in return other than the RESPECT you deserve……… ZEPHINIA …… u need a reality check
By Barry Shepherd
July 12, 2005 01:42 AM | Link to this
I am the uncle of Specialist Greer and knowing him as I do I know He was trying to deal with the horror the best way he could as do all members of swevice. I am a Vietnam era vet and also of Grenada and Beirut and I say to the so called reporter “If a person has never been in that situation they don’t have a lot of right complaining about how someone else deals with it” Hang in there guys and Jeremy give em what for Uncle Barry
By Don
July 12, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this
I served in Iraq last year. I was at Baghdad Airport. We received harassing mortar and rocket attacks on a regular basis. We treated injured EPWs (enemy prisoner of wars) that were injured by insurgent attacks, and during that same time period we treated injured US personnel caught in an ambush. I responded to fires in an Iraqi village and was surrounded and had my vehicle spit on because our response was not rapid enough. My primary concern was my firefighters safety and that remained my primary concern at all times. We trained Iraqi firefighters to take over fire protection at Baghdad Airport. I dealt with the horror I saw in my own way. I had Iraqis tell me of the horror of life under Sadam. I saw the lakes were the regime dumped bodies. I heard of Iraqi firefighters that were threatened by the regime because they did ask permission to respond to an accident. They did what firefighters do they rsponded with out asking the Ba’ath Party Police. I was fortunate I did not have imbedded personnel with me. My interaction with the Iraqis was not based on media perception. I miss the Iraqis I grew close to…but remember this we deal with the horrors we see often with humor, sometimes sarcasm and when we are back in our quarters alone…many times with tears. All of us who have served in Iraq come back changed by what we saw and experienced. TO SPC Jeremy Greer…keep your head up, and know that this USAF Master Sgt. supports you…take care, stay safe and come home, there are a couple of very special people in your life that miss you and are counting the days till you come home…
By murray
July 12, 2005 10:27 AM | Link to this
I want to thank all of you for your support for our troops. I am a wife of a soldier in the 48th brigade. Telling my husband good-bye was the hardest thing I have ever done, and it does not make it easy when everything you hear about the war is negative. Reading these comments has really lifted my spirits, and I am thankful to hear so many people who are supportive of our guys and girls over seas. Thanks you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!! To ADK, I am so proud of you, and I love you so much. Please know that everyone back home loves you and prays for you daily.
By Graham McDonald
July 12, 2005 04:36 PM | Link to this
This is primarily in response to “ZEPHANIA” Just when I thought I’d heard it all - there you were! Your observations on the bodies discovered by our guys cannot be those of a rational person…. But, you know something, my son and all the rest of our troops over there are laying it all on the line so that you can enjoy the right to be so sublimely crass. In a different life, in a faraway country, many years ago I experienced similar scenes as described in the news article. The guys may “laugh it off” but they will never be free of the memories. To suggest they did this is an insult. To the troops, please ignore the fools. They are meaningless in their imbecelity. You have the overwhelming support of your country and the vast majority of her citizens. Keep on keeping on and look after each other like soldiers have always done. To our families, hang tough. We also know what it’s like and we’re doing the day-to-day stuff too. Our mutual support, even if we’re scattered across the U.S.A.and will never meet is so important. Keep faith in each other and in us all. Roll on 12 months!!!!
By Dorothy Calhoun
July 12, 2005 04:58 PM | Link to this
zephania needs to pray each night for the brave men and women fighting so that she/he can sleep at night. I have a son with the 48th and a son who went in with the 3rd ID and is going back in Nov. They feel nothing but compassion for the way the Iraqis live in the shadows of Sadamms luxury and they want nothing more than for the Iraqis to have better lives and freedom from oppression. They are not there to conquer..they are there to help and they deserve better than your ugliness. Im sure that you would vent your thoughts out loud in public. It’s easy when you hide behind an alias. God bless all of our troops and come back safe and soon.
By A grandmother
July 12, 2005 06:18 PM | Link to this
Perhaps Zephania could go over there for a reality check.
I have a grandson with the 48th. I had a son in the Vietnam war - a Marine - and I had brothers and first cousins in WWII. Veterans came back with terrible memories. If making irreverent remarks kept them able to do the job at hand and cope then so be it. The same for these courageous soldiers who are serving today.
I’m proud of all our men and women in uniform worldwide and pray for all of them every day when I wake and before going to sleep at night. Even during the day. But special prayers for those in the war zones who are in harms way.
Don’t let negative inconsiderate people get you down, Soldiers. If you need to make irreverent remarks to get through the days and nights there - so be it. Do what is necessary to stay safe, well, and sane.
May Angels walk with each of you and God send many blessings and keep each one save.
Thank you for your sacrifices. I look forward to seeing the troops return home the same as I saw them leave.
We love each of you and praise you for the job you do and the sacrifices you are making.
By pam c.
July 12, 2005 10:25 PM | Link to this
Being the mother of an “Irreverent” soldier I am apalled that article was written. I know my son and know that if certain remarks are made in the face of a nightmare many of us don’t have to face because “others” do, it is in the interest of doing whatever it takes to survive within the boundaries of humanity that such things are said. I am PROUD to have Spc Jeremy Greer as my son. and stand behind our troops. no matter what my thoughts might be I know THEY are there for the right reasons in their hearts. I tried to send message before but it evidently WASN”T approved. My love and pride goes out to you son and all the troops that over there with the purpose in their hearts to make this world abetter safer place. We mere civilians with any sense SALUTE you.
By Brother of a hero
July 13, 2005 03:30 AM | Link to this
Reading this article makes me question whether the motives of this journalist is to cover stories of what’s going on over in Iraq for family to hear about it, or if they are to prosecute the methods of coping with the horrors that are dealt with, used by the troops. I suppose all and all it will rest clear on Mr. Hirschman’s conscience, he did his job and succeceded, there were alot of readers of the article. To Jeremy, stay tough, and hang in there, I love you, the rest of your family loves you, and we’re all proud. Do what it takes to stay strong, even if you do have to get a little “irreverent” at times. Hang in there, I miss you, and look foward to you coming home.
By SSG MARTIN
July 13, 2005 06:39 AM | Link to this
I would like to pass on a quote from JOHN STUART MILL for all the zephania’s out there. “War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things. The decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling wich thinks that nothing is worth war is much worse. The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature, and has no chance of being free unless made or kept so by the exertions of better men than himself” Thanks to the brave men and women of country you have the right to voice your opinion, but next time you pass judgment on me and my brothers try and stick to a subject you might have some knowledge about. To everyone else, I say thank you for your support. It means so much to everyone here. And to my mom “I’M FINE” LOVE, SSG MARTIN
By scout
July 13, 2005 09:16 AM | Link to this
I have read your story many times. I have read your comments many times and when a new one is added, I read that one. Many of you all, have writen comments for Spc. Jeremy Greer, but this story was not just about him. If you truly know him, then you would know the way Spc. Greer talks and how he talks. Yes, he may have said these things, but he may have said these things to try and not think so hard on what everyone faced that day. No one was downing Spc. Greer, the reports were just doing there job, just like we do our job everyday. No one is here in Iraq, in our tents, and in our Humvees, to hear how everyone talks and acts.. Spc. Greer just happen to be the one that day. Iraq is no fun. Everyone has to make the best of it till Everyone can go back home. We are going to do our job and then come home. Weather we laugh and say things that maybe we shouldn’t, or pack extra guns and things, or drive crazy (as many would say),we are just doing our job and trying to make the most of it..
By Cathy Head
July 13, 2005 09:17 AM | Link to this
Thank you Dave and Curtis for your articles and photos of our soldiers. Some people will never understand the realities a soldier faces everyday in times like this. If my husband has to make cold, sarcastic, rude and crude jokes just to get through the day and survive, then let him. I don’t want my husband’s emotions to get bogged down if it means him risking his survival. I want my husband to do what he has to to stay focused for himself and his buddies so they ALL can come home safely. Thanks to these articles, even though they are not always pleasant, I know what my husband is going through. Our soldiers are facing hidden enemies and danger behind every corner. No one ever knows what goes through a soldier’s mind on days like this, unless you’ve been there for yourself. Separation is hell, but at least I can read here to find out some of what he has been through so I can better understand him when he returns. Because of these articles, in a way, I’ve now been there too.
By Rodney K. Brown
July 13, 2005 09:49 AM | Link to this
I have been in the place Mr. Hirschman is in a couple of times. He is a journalist and doing the best job he knows how to do at the time he is doing it. It’s my opinion he is doing an honest reporting of what he sees.
And to my son, Sgt. Lance Brown at Joe…Keep your head down son. We are proud of you and the job you guys are doing. Rodney K. Brown, Bremen, Georgia
By AMH
July 13, 2005 01:16 PM | Link to this
Scout, I would like you to know that though people took time to write about SPC.Greer because they were directly,and personally affected by the comments made about him,it doesn’t take away from the support we have for all of you guys!!!It also doesn’t take away from the things you saw and see daily and are dealing with! No one who knows him questions things he might say in humor trying to lift or make light of a situation to deal with the horrors you guys face. I believe at least in my situation I just felt people needed to know he didn’t do things because he is cold hearted and unaffected. All of you guys are very brave and deal with things the best way you can. I am very proud of you guys and pray for your safe return. Just know we support all of you and had your name been used and you called “irreverent” I would hope those who know you best would come to your defense also. Thank you for all you do!! Supporting you guys always!!
By jjc
July 13, 2005 01:24 PM | Link to this
You know, Spc. Greer talks a big talk and plays around alot but he does do his job. This story was not to be based on him. There are many others here with him. As to his family and his girlfriends-Erin and Anna(which we are still trying to figure out these two not knowing),all of you know how Jeremy is and that yes, so he may pack more guns and talk the way he does but he is dealing with this just like the rest of us. Jeremy will be Jeremy here in Iraq as well as in Douglasville & Dallas Georgia.
By Christy
July 14, 2005 10:44 PM | Link to this
To “zephania”: ….Your right to speak your mind is yours, but that right wasn’t earned by YOU, a SOLDIER did it for you. You should be thanking them, not condemning them. To the 48th BDE: You are ALL heroes, don’t let anyone tell you any differently. To my very own hero: I love you, I’m proud to be your wife, stay safe. Your boy and I miss you, but we know you are where you feel you need to be, and that makes it easier on us.
By PG
July 15, 2005 08:52 AM | Link to this
Zephania —
It really isn’t that hard to tell who the enemy is. Our greatest enemy right now is the “enemy within”….the uninformed, unsupportive, malicious Americans at home. Is there someone you love in Iraq?? Apparently not. I have two sons there. Whether you believe politically in this war or not, be American. SUPPORT OUR TROOPS. These guys/girls are doing their jobs and doing them very well. Our troops are not killers. They are liberators. Why don’t you find another site to post too. Your comments here will not be well received……oh wait, that’s right….you have the right to post here….A SOLDIER made sure of that.
Way to go SSG Martin. No one could have said it better!!
Troops, we love you. We support you. You are doing a wonderful job. Stay safe and come home soon.
By Jennifer
July 15, 2005 11:43 AM | Link to this
You know, no one is putting the troops down by not agreeing with the war. Too many times I have seen that connect trying to be made and it is incorrect. I, too, have loved ones there and although I know they are fulfilling their duty I do not agree with the war; and neither do they. So, again, no one is putting down the troops but that does not mean we have to stay quiet on the fact we disagree with the war.
By stephen
July 15, 2005 01:45 PM | Link to this
By Jennifer
July 15, 2005 11:43 AM | Link to this
You know, no one is putting the troops down by not agreeing with the war. Too many times I have seen that connect trying to be made and it is incorrect. I, too, have loved ones there and although I know they are fulfilling their duty I do not agree with the war; and neither do they. So, again, no one is putting down the troops but that does not mean we have to stay quiet on the fact we disagree with the war.
Jennifer, Jennifer, you’re missing the point, but 1st I want to start out by correcting you when you say ‘and neither do they’(troops)(agree with the war). The word ‘they’ shouldn’t be used so carelessly. ‘Some’ would be better suited and more accurate. Don’t believe me? Maybe you should take a poll. And absolutely you have the right to not ‘keep quiet’ as you put it. That’s what ‘Freedom’ is Jennifer. You are privileged. I’m sure there were people that didn’t agree w/ WW 2, or WW 1, or even the Civil War. I’m sure there were people that just wished it could be over. The final outcome of those wars gives you the right ‘not to keep quiet’ today. A 1st grader could understand this. W/ the latest London bombings you should know that the terrorist won’t stop on there own. We weren’t at war on Sept 11. ‘01. We went to war AFTER that. Take this for an example: Two teams are playing football. The team that’s on YOUR side is trying to win, and you’re yelling “stop, quit, we don’t want you on that field, you might get hurt!” Sometimes the best DEFENCE is a good OFFENCE. So, Jennifer, just remember, when ever you yell those things out, just think how those players on that field must feel, out there trying to win w/ all of the distractions & yelling from the stands telling them that they should ‘GET OFF OF THAT FIELD!!’
By Beverly Wiggins
July 15, 2005 10:33 PM | Link to this
Jennifer you evidently didn’t read the comment by Zephania very well…so here it is AGAIN. Both of you do have the right to disagree with the war. That’s OK. You have that RIGHT. But it’s NOT OK to accuse our troops of the same unmerciful, murderous behavior that the Inseurgents are inflicting on their on men, women and CHILDREN. American Soldiers are not the ENEMY! They are making great sacrifices to keep such atrosities away from our doors! SLEEP WELL JENNIFER…MY SON IS ON DUTY!!!!
By Courtney
July 16, 2005 01:20 AM | Link to this
This site is supposed to be one of support for troops and their families. Everyone has a right to their opinion, but if it is not in support of the soldiers, then keep it to yourself. I don’t know about Jennifer’s soldiers, but my soldier and his buddies do not complain about fighting for their country. As good soldiers do, they support their leader. President Bush believes we need this war and I have never met a soldier that did not agree with him. That is a true American soldier! Why are certain people trying to cause drama? To all of the soldiers and my soldier, forget all of these non-supportive people, ignorance is their problem. People may have their rights, but when it affects our soldiers and how they feel about their job, please keep it to yourself. Soldiers do read this website. Let’s just all stick together and support these great soldiers who chose to defend our freedom! May God Bless You! To my soldier, I love you!!!!!!
By lynn jones
July 16, 2005 09:54 AM | Link to this
You know what guys? Can we quit arguing and berating each other over ONE”S person’s comment that was just ridiculous. She is free to her opinion and those of us who LOVE and MISS our husbands, brothers, sons, daughters, mothers, or whomever we have in Iraq need to stick together. There are always ignorant people in the world. Let us just support each other as the family of the military which we are. Let us quit the “right-wing” political mud-slinging and get back to supporting our fellas, and gals. My husband is “outside the wire” and stupid comments like this should be overlooked. To all of the wonderful responses of support to our men and women thank you so much from the wife of one of those QUIET HEROES over there. It means so much knowing that we are being supported here at home, even if the only place we see that support is on the AJC blog. I would like to challenge everyone who is not connected with a loved one over there. Take your support a step forward, don’t just leave your support on the AJC blog. There are thousands of women across Georgia who are left here to fend for themselves while their husbands are away. They have the yardwork, the “GUY” stuff to do now. If you are lucky enough to know one of these “hidden heroes” back here at home, show your support by cutting thier grass, or cooking dinner for them and thier family. NO ONE KNOWS HOW TOUGH OUR JOB IS HERE!! We are NOW SINGLE PARENTS!!! Just a thought, show your support by helping your fellow military family out. from: a proud military wife
By Buffy Wiggins
July 20, 2005 01:46 PM | Link to this
One sure way for ignorance to florish is for intellegent people to say nothing! Some things are worth arguing about. THIS IS ONE OF THOSE THINGS. “Mad MOM”