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DEL.ICIO.USTHE FIFTH MAN
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Bombs have killed pals just behind him – twice
By MARK DAVIS mrdavis@ajc.com The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Humvees were ready, and so were they.
They took their places in the last of the three vehicles setting out in a convoy. They sat with the ease that comes from training and bunking together. Since leaving the United States more than two months ago, the five had become a squad, five pals on one machine.
They knew their roles, knew their purpose: another patrol keeping Route Aeros, an east-west highway in the southwest sector of Baghdad, open for traffic. It was an unfriendly road, and it was theirs.
They awaited orders to pull out of Camp Striker, their temporary home as members of the Georgia Army National Guard’s 48th Brigade Combat Team. They were assigned to Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment. The five-man squad hailed from Covington, Thomson, Valdosta, Sylvester, Butler.
Word came that the second Humvee lacked a gunner. Was anybody in the third vehicle available?
The five buddies took a moment to think: Which of them would go?
Staff Sgt. Carl Fuller was the old guy in the bunch. At 44, this was his second tour in Iraq. Before shipping out, the Covington resident worked as a warehouse supervisor.
Sgt. James Kinlow, 35, was a quiet guy from Thomson, near the Georgia-South Carolina line. A church deacon and truck driver in civilian life, he planned to celebrate the end of his deployment by buying a new truck.
Sgt. John Thomas was 33, so tough he was the only guy in the squad who went for a run after long patrols in Iraq. At home in Valdosta, the former Marine dressed up his pit bull and took it riding in his motorcycle sidecar.
Spc. Jacques “Gus” Brunson was 30. An avid outdoorsman, he hunted in the woods near his home in Sylvester, in southwest Georgia’s peanut country.
Spc. Rodney Davidson loved the outdoors as much as Brunson. He was a good shot, too; the walls of his home near Butler in Taylor County were covered with the heads of bucks he’d bagged in central Georgia.
After a moment, Davidson, 39, nodded. Sure, he’d ride shotgun on that middle Humvee. The three vehicles moved off into the dust, and the heat, and toward a waiting bomb.
It was just beyond a traffic control point. The first and second Humvees rolled over it without incident. The blast practically obliterated the last vehicle. Metal rained in all directions, some striking Davidson in the second Humvee.
He stared at the destruction. These were the guys with whom he’d shared tent space, jokes and private thoughts, men who had joined him in a harsh fraternity. He looked at the blasted spot where his friends had been, and knew: He was alone, the only guy from his squad left standing.
The fifth man.
‘Almost expecting’ death
Davidson may be excused if he thinks that death is one car behind him.
In less than a week’s time, he was on two patrols that ended in the deaths of his fellow fighters â€â€? the July 24 blast that killed the rest of his squad, and the similar attack Saturday that ended the lives of four more soldiers from the 48th.
In both blasts, he was in the middle Humvee, the last vehicle to safely pass the device that demolished the rear machine.
“I’ve gone from accepting death as a part of the job to almost expecting it,” he told his wife in a telephone call Wednesday, a day before the 48th honored the four killed in Saturday’s attack. Davidson’s pals, the first Georgia National Guard soldiers to die in combat since World War II, were honored a week ago.
Davidson’s wife, Valerie, is keenly aware of how narrowly her husband missed becoming one of those memorialized.
This past Sunday afternoon, she heard her cellphone trill. She flipped it open and was surprised to see a text message from her husband, an old-fashioned guy more comfortable calling than writing a text message.
“We got attacked again last night,” he wrote. “Four people dead. I am OK. I cannot talk right now. Rodney.”
Valerie Davidson, 33, stared at the message, then reread it. Then she started dialing.
She reached Brenda Redd, her mother-in-law. “I started crying,” she said.
So did Redd. “I’m proud of him,” Redd said, “but I’m scared to death, too.”
They are friends, mother- and daughter-in-law, linked by marriage, by fear, by prayer.
When Davidson called his wife Wednesday, she was sitting in her mother-in-law’s home near downtown Thomaston. It’s a neat little structure, a refurbished mill house where Rodney and his kid sister, Danielle, opened Christmas presents, celebrated birthdays and picked on each other. On a mantle are Rodney’s bronzed baby shoes; the walls are decorated with the antlered heads of whitetails he shot in the forests of Upson County.
When she looks at her house, Redd is reminded of happier days, when doors slammed and rooms echoed with boyish whoops.
This is her son’s second time in the service. In 1985, a few months out of high school, he joined the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, serving three years before returning to Thomaston.
He took a job as a piano tuner for Yamaha Corp. of America, which has a manufacturing plant in Thomaston. After nearly a decade, he quit for a better-paying job in construction. Then, about a year ago, Yamaha asked him to come back.
But the guy who returned to tuning work wasn’t the fellow who had left: The terrorist attacks of 9/11 had convinced Davidson that old warriors were needed to show the youngsters how to fight.
Last year, Davidson joined the Guard. He reveled in the weekend training, where he established that he could do more than tune a piano. He came back from one weekend trip saying, “I outshot ‘em all.”
At 39, he’s older than most of them, too; some younger guys call him “Pappy.” Recent photos show a man in the full of life, wearing four decades of muscle. His smile is the sort that comes with knowing that life can be short, and end suddenly: It is genuine, meant for the folks back home.
‘God’s not through’
Back home on Wednesday, the telephone call from Iraq was too brief, as all of them are.
“Remember,” Redd told her son as he prepared to say goodbye, “God’s not through with you.”
Nor are wife and mother. They are anticipating Thanksgiving, the time Davidson chose for a two-week leave. That date isn’t guaranteed, but they’re confident he’ll be home for a holiday of thanks. Why else would he have survived two attacks?
“When he comes home,” said Valerie Davidson, “he wants one day when he goes nowhere. He’s tired of all the driving he has to do.”
His mother, who makes sure his name remains on the prayer list at First Baptist Church of Thomaston, occasionally feels her strength slip. “You can’t help it,” she said. “He’s my baby. I changed his diapers.”
In Dalton, sister Danielle Jones regularly asks the Lord to bring her big brother home from a hot and hostile place.
“The last time he called, he told me he just wanted to come home and cut the grass,” she said. “We complain about cutting the grass in all this heat, and that’s all he wants to do.”
As he prepared to end his phone call Wednesday, Davidson said officers removed him from the patrol schedule for a few days to make sure he was emotionally ready to return to Iraq’s roadways. The gunner was confident they would give him the OK; good shots, he said, are needed these days.
“They’re hitting us pretty good.”
Hitting hard, and often. Davidson knows that as well as anyone on the dusty roads where enemies plant bombs and wait. He’s the fifth man.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Wes King
August 4, 2005 11:54 PM | Link to this
It’s a super tough, often thankless mission for these guys. Their courage is more than admirable. Wonder if they have “armored” Humvees. Know proper equipment can be an issue. Wonder if there are available M113 APCs in storage stock that might be better patrol vehicles?…esp. if beefed up w/underbelly protection. Hope the unit can get the absolutely best equipment available…even though the best equipment is not a guarantee of safety…only improved odds of survival. Appreciate the dedication of these soldiers…Soldier on!
By Cindy
August 5, 2005 05:16 AM | Link to this
What a well written article to build the confidence of those of us on the outside looking into this experience overseas.
Thank you Mr. Davis. And of course thank you Rodney Davidson for reminding us there is reason to not dispair but to have faith in our men and their abilities.
By Kelly Chavies Stephenson
August 5, 2005 09:04 AM | Link to this
Awesome article! I grew up with Rod and have spoken to him several times since he has been in Iraq. I remember summers swimming at the country club and countless days in choir at the First Baptist Church. I am a staff reporter with The Thomaston Times and have been privileged to write several articles on the 48th. and Rod. He and his “frat brothers” are in our thoughts morning, noon and night.
By Chris Lumley
August 5, 2005 09:18 AM | Link to this
I, too, have a family member on the sand in Iraq, and have shed a tear or two over the ones who have passed on from this life fighting for what they believe in — freedom for all humanity. I do not understand how they can have the courage to face death square in the eye, and go on about their duties. These soldiers are the best of our nation, and I am proud to call them Americans.
When I read this article about Anderson I realized how important it is to make each and every day count. These soldiers want their lives to make a difference in this world, not just to pass through and have a “good life.” My brother, Joel, does not look at himself as anything special, which is true of most of these guys, yet he finds within himself the courage to work in this harsh environment.
I plead to those of you have family in Iraq; do not lash out at Pres. Bush or other Americans for what is happening. Bush is the commander-in-chief of these forces, their superior officer. When we make comments about his abilities or judgment we undermine the foundation on which the military is built upon — Service before self. They have sworn an oath to protect the United States against any enemy, both foreign and domestic.
I read recently a quotation which was written upon an Army Ranger memorial plaque. It read, “Whom shall I send?� and a reply which read, “Here am I, send me.� They went so we would not see the evils of war on US soil. Our only reply should be, “Thank You.�
To those of you have lost your loved one, I send my deepest sympathy and sorrow for your loss. My heart truly goes out to you, as do my prayers. It is as though they were family. I truly feel God himself weeps for you.
By Max
August 5, 2005 09:50 PM | Link to this
The idea that criticism of the President by people who have family members in Iraq is somehow undermines the military is insulting - both to the families and the brave men and women who serve in the military. Let us not forget that one of the most important freedoms we have is the freedom to speak our minds to government. There IS a reason it was the First Amendment in the Bill of Rights. “Shut up and support the President” is not what the founders were thinking of when they thought of patriotism…
As a former member of 1-108th Armor of the 48th Brigade I watch what is happening to my brothers in Iraq and die a little inside each time I hear of deaths. I can only pray that someday George W. Bush truly understands the sacrifice our sons and daughters are making because, in my heart, I don’t think he does today.
By Bonnie
August 5, 2005 09:54 PM | Link to this
I thought the entry by Chris Lumley to be especially articulate and to echo in so many ways my own thoughts and feelings about our soldiers’ courage, loyality, and unwavering sense of duty in the face of such uncertainty. I too have a loved one in Iraq and feel as though those soldiers who have perished there and their families are my own family as well. I also agree that it is in poor taste to use this site to lash out against the president, the “government” political parties, or other specific individuals. This is not the place for anyone’s politics, but that includes you too, Chris Lumley.
You make the case that those individuals who disagree with the administration undermine the foundation upon which our military is built because the president is our soldiers’ superior officer. A good soldier does not have to like or agree with his superior’s decisions, but he or she will follow his leader’s directives because loyalty and DUTY are the foundation of good soldiers. And THAT should have been enough. By continuing your comment and including in it that “they went” so we would not see the evils of war on US soil, you did exactly what you had chastised others against and siezed the opportunity to espouse YOUR beliefs about why our nation is at war, and worse, you arrogantly suggest that ALL soldiers who “went” agree with you.
Please, all of us who are 48th family, friends and supporters, let’s take care of and support one another and our beloved soldiers unconditionally and leave the politics to another time. I am simply in awe of Spc Davidson for his mental fortitude and dedication.
By Dawn Gallant
August 5, 2005 11:18 PM | Link to this
Again, my heart grieves for the soldiers of the 48th BCT and all the servicemen that have fallen. My prayers and condolences are with the families that made the ultimate sacrifice.
My hat is off to the "fifth man", Spc. Davidson. You have been through alot and my heart goes out to you as well. It is truly amazing to me how you have been through all you have recently and keep on trucking. You are truly an inspiration. HOOAH!!!!! To the rest that are in harms way... THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! I don't think there is a way we can properly thank you for all that you do. Without people like you, we wouldn't have the freedoms and liberties that we have today. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. God Bless.Lastly, I want to tell my husband, Sgt. Gallant from C Co. 1-108 that I love you and miss you lots. My prayers are with you.
By Jimmy
August 6, 2005 01:22 AM | Link to this
How dare you detractors be critical of the President thereby being critical and dishonoring of the sacrifice that these brave solders have made in their service to this country and their countrymen (you and me). Shame on you. Do as these soldiers do and turn with the wind to your back and press on knowing that this is a just cause and the world will ultimately be a better place for it.
By Betty Cavender
August 6, 2005 02:49 AM | Link to this
I want to thank all the soldiers fighting for our freedom. If anyone thinks, the terror will stop if we pull out is sadly mistaken. My heart felt sympathy goes to the families who have lost the most important possession in their lives. My son-n-law is serving in the 48th. I am very proud of him and my daughter for their sacrifice. I only ask that we unite behind the one’s serving our country and stand strong against the enemy.
Betty Cavender, Ball Ground, Georgia
By Patrick F. Murphy CSM (Ret)
August 6, 2005 02:31 PM | Link to this
Please! Leave your political bickering for another time and place. Do not soil these hollow pages with your so called free speach. God bless and please protect our brave men and women serving in harms way.
By Chris Lumley
August 6, 2005 03:29 PM | Link to this
I would like to clarify my statements based on the comments to my earlier letter. I never insinuated every soldier went to Iraq of his or her own free will. Most soldiers are there fighting for us is there because of a sense of duty, loyalty, obligation, and honor. They made a committment to our country. I have spoken with many soldiers. Most of these men and women do support President Bush’s reasons for this action.
I do believe that grumbling undermines the president and I am not sorry for saying that. What happens in the workplace when the workers are moaning and complaining about what is taking place at work? You have dissention, tension, and it makes things harder for everyone who is working.
We need more people in this world who are willing to look beyond their own selfish desires and sit in fox holes so others can “speak freely” about their beliefs. I am one of these people. I will be joining the military at the end of this school year in May. I have a family and they are well aware of possibilities. However, I feel that if I am going to talk it, I must live it.
By Judy
August 7, 2005 10:33 AM | Link to this
I had to attend a military class at Ft Dix. There were about 10 from the Ga Guard there, one was the state causality officer. Everytime he gotan email we all knew it was bad news. He could not tell us anything…it was hard on him.. Things really hit home yesterday..While waiting for our flight back to Atlanta, one of the deseased soldier body was being placed onto the ealier flight…Those of us from Georgia watched…tears in our eyes. We are family in the Guard..WE feel for the families that have lost a love one. We pray for the families. My husband is also in the 48th, so I pray everynight that GOD’s Will will bring his and all others home. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR SOLDIERS!!!Maj Judy Groth
By Jim
August 7, 2005 10:37 AM | Link to this
I am writing this comment for one soldier in particluar, but thats not to, in any way, take anything from the soldiers in the 48th who are serving next to my brother, Mike. He was there on the 2 patrols that took 8 of our soldiers lives, and yet he keeps on with the business at hand. Just as the rest of the soldiers over there have, without these people willing to sacrifice themselves for this country and it’s ideals, this country would not be what it is today.
Many people in this country dont support the war, but please don’t hold that against our troops, they are doing thier jobs, and they are doing a great job.
To Mike: Watch out for yourself, take care of your boys and they will take care of you. I love you, and look forward to seeing you soon, whether it be in Iraq or back home!
By Tom Branham
August 7, 2005 12:23 PM | Link to this
How do you break America’s Resolve? …One body bag at a time.
This is not the time nor the venue to discuss the validity or the purpose of the Brave men and women of the 48th, who are placing themselves in harms way.
I have nothing but respect and admiration for those who are there. I know many of the soldiers personally, and each I am proud to call a friend.
When I was in Viet Nam I would read of protests and demonstrations. It did not accomplish anything but make me mad, to see the lack of appreciation of those safe at home.
I wish to thank each member of the 48th for their service and to let them know they are doing a heck of a job and are appreciated. Keep up the good work.
Always Out Front and Leading the way
By Linda & John
August 7, 2005 02:20 PM | Link to this
My son is with the 48th. He knew many of the first 8 soldiers. We are from NJ. Our son became a Ga resident in 2003 & immediately transferred to the Ga. Guard. He recently told me that he couldn’t be with a better bunch of guys. He said they are brave and he can always depend on them. He is proud to serve with them. We grieve for all these losses and pray for their loved ones. We continue to pray for protection for our troops
By Praying Mom
August 9, 2005 08:41 PM | Link to this
My son is with the 648th,and last week was the longest I’v had. not hearing from him tore my heart out. You have to wait till they are aloud to either call or email,and not hearing anything is worse than knowing they were involved in an occurance. Please allow someone to tell us something any thing—-My son finally call Sunday evening.—My thoughts and prayers go out to the families.May God bless them and and give them Peace at the time. GOD BLESS OUR FALLEN HEROES THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE—-
By Sgt Allen F Gaskill C CO IO8AR
August 10, 2005 05:53 PM | Link to this
TO ANY AND ALL KNOW THAT OUR RESOLVE HAS NOT FADED,,,we move forward each day ,,knowing not if this wilL be our last day or even worse ,, the last of a teammate,,yes ,,loseing a member of your unit is much worse than knowing you might be next. The only one that can pick on a member is a member , all else are outsiders,,,we are brothers ,,brothers of the worse and the best kind,,,we don’t show much love to each other during the brite days but , on the dark ones we pull together . Only years from now will we get together and remember times that we are living today,only years from now will we open our hearts and thoughts to we other, but tomorrow is another day ,,,another patrol,,another watch ,,but years from now it will be the best times or our lives.
Sgt Allen F Gaskill Jr. CCO/108AR/48thBCT
By Ray Lindsey
August 17, 2005 01:43 PM | Link to this
I think Sgt Allen Gaskill says it all. Spoken like a true Solder and a American. May God bless him and all the other solders. My son Michael is in the 48th BCT, and I know he feels the same. We love you all.