The 48th goes to war

By Laf

March 13, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

am sure other countries will see its value and quickly fill the void left by American soldiers. These other countries have such great respect for America they will be proud to follow in our footsteps. Or do you reckon the rest of the world has a more realistic view of the situation that we have. Or mayby their leaders are playing our leaders for a bunch of suckers. But all of us Americans are not suckers. Bring all the Georgia Troops home. They have done their part.

By scott

March 13, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

Four years and counting…. Is there any wonder that enlistment rates continue to fall?

By "Momma Kat" Orr

March 13, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

{{{HUGS}}} aw… this is heartbreaking, I’m so sorry to hear y’all’s homecoming got delayed… nothin like having hopes built up, only to be smashed to smithereens at the last minute. :( *HUGS* Hang in there… we are praying for y’all DAILY, almost HOURLY, in fact…. We are so proud of y’all and all y’all have done while you’ve been there….

By michele pierce

March 13, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

I am so sorry that these family’s have to wait even longer to see there loved ones. Don’t give up hope, you will be coming home soon!

Keep up the hard work and know that we are stil l praying for you.

By C co Wife

March 13, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

One of these guys happens to be my husband. I can say from my standpoint that this has been a really long and hard 16 months. We have come so close to the end and had such a suprise to think that there may be relief sooner than anticipated, only once again to have the army rip it out from under us. I wish someone would remind the DOD that this unit is made up of people who had lives and jobs that were not established around living as active duty soldiers. Our kids had their daddy’s taken away so long ago that it has become hard to remember what having a normal life is like. Most active duty soldiers are gone for 12 months, but because of ours being nat’l guard they had to train up for 6 months. My husband hasn’t lived in his house since Jan 05. I am frustrated and tired and want the peace of mind back that I haven’t had in a really long time. If I knew he could stop patrolling the streets, I could live with him sitting in Kuwait until May. I still cringe at the thought of him out there, I doubt that feeling ever goes away. I want my soldier home, I want my family back, I want to stop feeling like the last rung on the army’s ladder and the wife of a soldier in the forgotten company.

By TSgt Chris Nash

March 14, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

My hats off to the Soldiers from Charlie Company, Ft. Stewart. From the perspective of an Air Force member, (also from Ga.) it’s easy to see that the Army is under a great amount of pressure over here in Baghdad. Their living and working conditions are very poor as it is, and I can imagine how frustrating this type of news can be. They surely have our deepest resect and admiration.

By My Opinion

March 14, 2006 03:01 AM | Link to this

I have no soldier with the Gainesville Unit but I am saddened and upset that these soldiers are being delayed on their rotation home. Although the article indicates that the remainder of the Brigade isn’t facing delay I can’t help but expect the worst. This unit is part of the 48th and all the Brigade should come home on time.

God bless each of these solders, keep them safe and return them home soon - very soon.They are heroes, one and all, and have done themselves, the Brigade and this country proud. You all (ya’ll) are in my prayers and will stay in my prayers.

You are American Heroes we respect you, honor you and love you. God bless the families who are waiting, too.

By Cheryl Ryder

March 14, 2006 03:14 AM | Link to this

I am praying for a safe return for Sgt. Hawkins and all those that serve with him.

By Michael Woodley

March 14, 2006 05:11 AM | Link to this

Hang in there fellows, it won’t be long. If you have made this far you can make it all the way. I know some people are tired of this war and sometimes forget about you guys but I always try to say a prayer for you all to come soo and safe, may God bless and be with you all.

By One Angry Wife

March 14, 2006 06:56 AM | Link to this

First of all, God Bless all of you who got the news that their Soldier isn’t coming home on the projected date, and didn’t completely go insane. We ALL know this is the Army, it’s a War, and Things Change. But I am going to have my say so on the subject. The rest of the Brigade Better not come home before these troops. Or I will personally be seeing someone about this. Now if I can actual change things that’s another thing. I can gurantee I will try though. I understand they have a strong presence with the Bradley’s it makes sense, but you don’t leave comrades behind.. And General Rodeheaver better keep that in mind when making decisions to take the rest of the Brigade home without Charlie First Foot. I know These Soldier’s Will do an Awesome job just like they always do.. Take the mission and accomplish it in stride. But Bring our guys home together, Or nobody goes home. I am very disheartened by the fact that my Soldier will not come home early.. But I understand things happen.. I also have to say He Will either come home with the others, or I will be in the Capitol in May. God Bless Everyone, and I pray for you guys over there Everyday.. Take Care of yourself and watch your back.

By 48th BDE Wife

March 14, 2006 07:24 AM | Link to this

((((((((((((((((( 48th BDE ))))))))))))))) Sending huge hugs to all of you. We all want you to come home together. We miss you all!

By Frank

March 14, 2006 07:46 AM | Link to this

What a brillant military mind the President has in keeping the combat veterans in Iraq so we, his base, can stay at home and pin yellow victory stickers to our “Defense of the Homeland Hummers”!

By Adrienne

March 14, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

I know even a day’s delay is too long when you miss your families…Hang in there guys (and gals) and I pray that this month flies by and brings you home safely.

By Another Opinion

March 14, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this

Hats off to the 48th.. As an ex-soldier, each and every ex-soldier knows this is simply a beauracratic scrooo job. For one, the reserve and guard units are always treated as the step child regardless if they are doing the same, if not more than the regular Army units. Second, it’s always been the Army’s way to stick it to the person, or unit that’s getting “short”, especially in a deployment. And yes, I second the notion that this is the reason why enlistment is down and will probably remain down. God Bless ya’ll over there and thanks.

By JJ

March 14, 2006 07:57 AM | Link to this

I also have a husband with the 48th. Unfortunately, he has been on a mission for the last ten days and has not been notified of this. I just spoke to him yesterday afternoon so I know this for a fact. It sure would have been more appropriate to get the word out to all of the soldiers prior to releasing the news to the media! The news would be easier to take from him than the seeing it on the television set this morning. My love and prayers go out to all the other soldiers and their families.

By MPO D.W. Isbell

March 14, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

By speak out

March 14, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

The unit my soldier is in wasn’t scheduled to come home until May, but I can’t think of anything more demoralzing to the soldiers of this other unit than to be promised a return home date, then have it taken away. Speak Out people, and not just about this particular situation. Just yesterday, the commander in chief was on tv saying how much better things are in Iraq and as another politician said after the speech, it was just rhetoric. We can tell by the daily news that things are not going as well as we’re being told.

By RFitz

March 14, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

I have a son that is in the Air Force. I can’t even imagine how these soliders and their families feel. I get upset everytime I read the newspaper or hear something in the news about our soldiers. Just the sound of Iraq is haunting. I pray for all of our soldiers and their families.

By I remember

March 14, 2006 08:57 AM | Link to this

I am so sorry for your delay, but I want to remind you that for some loved ones there will be no homecoming. So remember that there is something to be thankful for. I am not lessening your pain, because I remember what everyday hell is like wondering if they are ok. But it is nothing compared to once you know he is not coming back. Just wanted to give you something to be thankful for. God speed and be safe to those who remain.

By JT

March 14, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this

Good job fellow Patriots! You are truly Georgia’s heros! WE all pray for your safe and speedy return. After your return and you’ve spent time with your families, the Georgia Veterans Service offices are here to help you! Look up your local office and stop by for your welcome home! Let’s see how we can help you and your family!

By another angry wife

March 14, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

This is for the other angry wife that says if other units come home before her husbands unit she will be going to the capital. Please remember that they left in stages and some people got extra time with there husbands. My husband left out on one of the very first flights and i’m just as anxious to see him as you are to see your husband. I’m sorry that the dates got changed but don’t ruin it for everyone else. I’m just as tired of getting sholved around by this brigades higher ups as you are but i’ll take what i can get. I love my husband very much and want him home just as much as the next wife but i don’t want anyones husband having to stay longer just because mine can’t leave at the same time.

By Lauri

March 14, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this

I am not sure how anyone else found out but, I had another wife call me this morning because she heard it on the radio and had no clue what was going on. Where is the FRG and Gen. Rodeheaver? and why are families hearing about it on the radio instead of from command? It is insulting enough to have to wait another month to have your loved one in a safer place, it is another to have to hear it on the radio or read it in the paper.
To all of those families of the soldiers in Charlie Co., I am so very sorry. I am lucky enough to have my husband in a safer place and I still worry. I am sorry that any relief for you will be delayed.
I don’t know about anyone else but, as citizen soldiers, I think they have more than served their time and so have the families.
God bless all of you. I pray they bring all of our guys home soon, and on the schedule they gave us weeks ago.

By Gerald Williams

March 14, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those serving in Iraq and other areas around the world. I definitely can identify with the tremendous frustration that the troops and their famiies feel over the change in their departure date from Iraq. The one thing that all military people count on is the date that they are given for being reunited with their families. I can think of nothing more stressful on all involved than being told a week before that they will not be going home. There is far more involved than a date. Spouses who have carried the full family burden suddenly see relief in sight. Children who need parents are suddenly told again that the parent will not be coming home. The psychological/emotional stress is absolutely harmful to all involved. This is not just an adjustment, it is horrible family slam. It becomes more and more obvious why recruitment is having such a difficult time. I think when the President announced “Mission Accomplished,” it sent a message around the world that we could soon expect an end to the war. Nothing has been further from the truth. My thoughts and prayers go out to all families impacted and those who will be affected in the future. I would again remind communities that have units serving that every family with a member involved can use additional help. Each church and community organization should select a family and make certain that the family’s needs are bing met to the best of their abiity. And, I would remind those groups, “Don’t ask if they need additional funds.” Of course they do! Just give them. If you are the neighbor of a family with a member serving, mow their lawn, wash their car, offer to babysit, ask if they have a leaky faucet, cook a meal, give a gift card to a local restaurant. The needs are endless for a family that is trying to survive the deployment. You can help far more than you will ever know. In most communities, people are and have reacted. Just don’t stop. The longer the deployment, the greater the needs. Just think if it were your family. As a former school principal, I would remind all schools to recognize the impact of a parent in a war zone on the student involved. Teachers, administrators, and guidance should make certain that they maintain close contact with those students. Looks for signs of stress. Remember, the student worries constantly that their parent could be the next lost in battle. It is a big load for a youth to carry. Sometimes all they need is for school personnel to recognize and show appreciation for the service that their parents are providing to the nation. The school should occasionally make a school wide announcement and remind other students that they have classmates with parents serving. Each teacher should take a moment to remind those students of the sacrafice that those families are making. Most student discipline issues can be traced to stresses outside the school environment. And, most of all, make certain that those students are not being bullied. Bullying is probably the most detrimental issue in schools to any student, especially those who are already under emotional stress. The best to all families impacted.

By Angie

March 14, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

I am sorry that your husbands’ return got delayed. You need to pull up your BIG girl panties and deal with it. I have been a Special Operations Solider’s wife for over 21 years and have not seen him for probably 10 of those years. Your husband and his team are out there supporting and defending this country for our freedom. Take pride in what he is doing. The best gift you can give him is to support him and what he and his team are doing and stop whining. I do not want this to sound mean but, there are people out there in a lot worse situation than yours.

Sincerely, Angie

By James Gordy

March 14, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this

I wish prayers of comfort to all the brave soldiers in Irag and their families. Hope is powerful medicine and our hope and prayers are for a safe return for all those serving this great nation. Plese do not dis-credit any works that any of our brave soldiers have done and will continue to do in order to protect our great nation. We owe our troops alot, supporting them with hope and prayers cost nothing!

By tlp

March 14, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

This is a very misleading story. If you read closely, it appears the actual homecoming has not been delayed—just their leaving Baghdad. This should still put all our troops home by their scheduled return dates in May. I know we all wish our troops could come home early, but we should not allow the media to play on our emotions with stories such as this.

By michele.pierce

March 14, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

I just want to say a personal thank you to Gerald Williams and his words of encouragement and his call to other citzens to respond. I am very grateful for men like you, who understand and see the need our family’s have at this critical time. The interest you have shown concerning our children’s welfare is very touching to me.

By Lisa Stokes Horton

March 14, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

My brother Daryl Stokes is in the Army and he is part of the the 48th Brigrade that is stationed in Iraq, I pray that all these soldiers come home to their families and to see that there is a chance that they maybe over there another month is really hurting our family, Daryl, we hope you get to read this, we just want you to know that we Love you and miss you and we are praying for you and the other soldiers and their families. Take care.

By E. Lewis

March 14, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

The reality of life in the military.

By Cant wait till they all come home

March 14, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

Ok know we need to get these men and women home. My husband is not in the C. company. He will not be coming home till May. I just hope this dosent push him coming home other month. My husband was one of the first fights out of Ft Stewart. He wasnt even able to say for family day. Plus he came home in step. Come on know we need our husband home and the kids need there Daddys home. Someone need to let us wifes know what going on. My husband told me the other day that all the dates we know about are not the right ones he has hear about 4 differnt dates in the last 2 weeks. Lets all just get out husband home safe.

By Mom

March 14, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

My son is with the 48th and isn’t coming home until the middle of May. His unit is the last out.

Most are scheduled to come home in April and the families were told (I do get the Gainesville info, although he’s not Charlie Company) not to make preparations for March arrivals yet. So the woman who made hotel reservations didn’t read her letter.

Never depend on what the Army initially says, they’re motto seems “hurry up and wait.”

Just let’s pray they all come home safely no matter when!

By Mom

March 14, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this

Lauri

“Where is the FRG”?

They sent a letter out saying not to plan on early arrival, the dates they gave were tentative.

By Christy Flynn

March 14, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this

I am the wife of the Sgt Michael Flynn,who is pictured on this page. When my husband enlisted 16 years ago into the Army National Guard, he knew that he was joining for the “right” reasons. I am proud of him and equally proud to be his wife. When Charlie Co. deployed back in May of 2005, all of the family members were informed that this would be a year-long deployment. However, when the word spread that the soldiers would be returning a month earlier, I got excited, of course. Yet, I’m not mad that they are staying the full year. I’m just disappointed. I still support our President and our troops. I will be waiting in May, with arms wide open, to embrace my husband. I will continue to pray for ALL of our troops. Sincerly, Mrs. Christy Flynn Proud Military Wife

By NG

March 14, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

Mrs. Flynn, your outlook at your husband’s return and your continued support for the President and this country in a time of WAR is very HONORABLE!!! Your husband should be VERY PROUD to have you. As far as return schedules, no family should make arrangements until you are notified OFFICIALLY by the 48th BDE as to when your soldier will be returning. It’s going to change 1000 times. You will know in time to make arrangements. Just be flexible.

By Stacy L.

March 14, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

I can’t wait for this deployment to be over, so I don’t have to listen to whiny wives and girlfriends anymore. Whether you like it or not, this is the reality of being part of the military lifestyle. Believe me, I can’t wait for my husband to come home. Until he does though, I’ll keep my head high and do my darndest not to embarrass him.

His “return” date has also been changed about a dozen times in the last month or so, and we joke…”What is it this week?” As far as I’m concerned, he won’t be home before the middle of May. If he gets home earlier, that’s just gravy.

Keep your spirits high ladies (and gentlemen), and stay positive. It really does make things easier. You may not like it, but what is, is. Make the best of it.

By K

March 14, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

The article doesn’t say the homecoming is delayed. It states that the move from Liberty to another place is delayed. Alpha company is the forgotten company. They were always tasked out.They were left behind at Stryker for months. The news never put a spotlight on this company. The only good news for them is that they are expected to come home first in April. I hope everyone comes home on time. As of right now it still looks as if everyone will.

By Karen Brown

March 14, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

Looks like everyone in the 48th is coming home except Mabry’s unit.

By Betty

March 14, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

We will continue to pray until every member to the 48th is safe at home. Love all of you guys. Mother of a member of the 48th.

By Lis

March 14, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

First of all, let me start by saying that our thoughts and prayers are with all of the soldiers of the 48th BGD. They have all had a ruff deployment over there, and we want them home as much as they want to come home. Having said that, I want to address several things that were said either in this article or in comments in hopes of enlightening those that seem to have misunderstood some of what was written.

Point 1 - The article did not say that the C. Co’s return to the states was going to be delayed. Read below: All this is saying is that instead of moving to a new location in Iraq for their last four weeks, they would be staying in the Baghdad area. The confusion might come from a statement alittle farther down in that the article states: “There was no indication from brigade officials that Charlie Company’s delayed departure would have any impact on the return dates for other 48th units, which are expected to begin coming home around April 20.” Their “delayed departure” is out of Baghdad - not Iraq, so if there are any delays of departure out of Iraq, it wouldn’t be because of this.

Another statement made that is more uneducated than anything but needs to be pointed out is as follows: ” Although Charlie Company is part of the 48th, it has been separated from the brigade and attached to active-duty battalions since the start of the deployment.” There was no separation from the 48th. There are 4500+ in the 48th, and they ALL went in different directions upon arriving in Iraq according to what their responsibilities were.

Hope that helps the ones that did not understand what was being reported. In closing I would like to comment on a few more things that have been written in comments that are not true. The Bush administration does not make the decisions as to when our soldiers get to come home. That responsibility is held by their General. But keep in mind that we were told in the beginning that our soldiers would be over there until May or JUNE. That was also in an article on the AJC several months ago. I know that it is frustrating to have to wait. The fear of having a loved one in harms way is exhausting to say the least. We all want them home yesterday. But please use your energy to continue praying for not only the soldiers, but for all family members as well. It will be alot more beneficial for all involved. May all of the soldier homecomings be as wonderful as ours will be! God Bless. Lis

By One Angry Wife

March 14, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

Well, I just want to make my last point before I quit trying to argue this issue. I am not knieve to the fact that we were told tenative dates. That isn’t the issue in my eyes. I do believe that if they leave Charlie Company behind, it is wrong. That is all I am saying.. I KNOW Very well the consequences of serving in the Army. I myself Served for 10 years, and just returned from Korea before my husband was shipped out to Iraq.. My husband told me about this delay before it came out on the news. As of right now.. There is NO projected date of them Even leaving Iraq, from his lips… I want to know if the General has something to say about this… I believe we deserve at least the answer to that question.. I am not asking for specific dates… I want to know if my Husband will be coming home period. Like I said they should NOT leave Charlie Company behind, while everyone else goes home. All the hard work these guys have been doing day after day.. Don’t you all think they deserve better then this.. I KNOW They do. God Bless all our Troops you are always in my prayers.

By settle down & keep your chin up

March 14, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

The best thing you can do at this point is pray they all make it home safe and be THANKFUL you can still pray they will come home! Some will never come home again to watch their children grow or argue w/ their spouse and enjoy making up! It’s only 30 more days you have to look at it as they will be home on time instead of being delayed. Show your support not your stupidity

By Laura

March 14, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately life in the Military is “hurry up and wait”. And homecoming dates change constantly, I know my Soldier’s did. Like the one wife and husband that made a joke about it…we ended up doing the same just to try to keep down the frustration.

I think that we need to be as supportive as possible while the guys are there for a bit longer…so that they can keep their morale up and accomplish their job safely and get home. It’s not easy and I’ll get to go through it again shortly myself..sooner then thought it would seem. Not happy…but I knew he was in the Army..and being an Army Brat myself and a AF Veteran…I know the drill well. It’s never easy…but try to keep your spirits lifted and your Soldier’s spirit up so they can get home safely.

To the gentleman who wrote about community support I’m glad to see someone bring that up. It’s something we need to do more of in the community.

In the meantime, keep the spirits up and your heads down. We are all proud of what you do so that we can whine in these blogs and go to Washington and complain. Stay safe and we’ll hold down the fort here til you all get home.

Blessings to All A Soldier’s Wife

By William

March 14, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this

My daughter served in Iraq and Afghanistan and is now out of the Army mainly because of screw up like that date changes and lack of clear goals and objectives. The date changes for arriving home impact on everyone. My so will go to Iraq for a second time this summer and he feel just like most soldiers that it is not the combat that is frustrating it is failure to keep return dates. It seems that there is so much confusion at the top of the military. It is now coming out that there were generals who did not think a war with Iraq was necessary

By Another Angry Wife

March 14, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget about Alpha 1/121 either. It is almost like they don’t have anyone fighting for them.

By Alpha Company Wife

March 14, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

Thank you (K) for your stamement regarding Alpha Company! We all just want them home safe!! To my husband who will know when I say Forever and a Day, my Love!!! This is only a blink of an eye!

By Laura

March 14, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

I’d just like to interject here that yes it is hard,,,yes it is disappointing. But let’s remember our boys are the ones stuck in Iraq. The very least we can do is support them and keep our chins up so that they can complete their mission safely and keep their minds on the task at hand.

Being an Army brat a USAF Veteran, and now a solider’s wife, I’ve gotten used to the “hurry up and wait” syndrome. It’s just a fact of Military life. I knew my spouse was a soldier before we got together..so as his wife I need to do all I can to help him and help keep his mind clear. No it’s not easy…somedays it hurts like hell, but I won’t let him see that. There will be plenty of time for talking when he gets home safe is how I’ve always looked at it.

I also want to say that I’m proud of ALL our Troops and everything they do for us. It’s what gives us the freedom to whine, complain and March on Washington if that is our choice. For the families…try to stay strong just a little longer. Try to stay busy…and if the FRG is not providing enough support there are others in the community that will. Seek them out…gather together more yourselves for picnics or outings. It won’t be much longer.

To the Soldiers…keep your heads down and come home safe. We’ll be here holding down the fort for you til you can get here.

Just my Thoughts A Solider’s Wife

By REGINA

March 14, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

I AM VERY HONORED TO HAVE A SOLDIER SERVING IN THE US ARMY. I SUPPORT MY SOLDIER AND HIS FELLOW SOLDIERS. SGT SPEEGLE YOUR MOM AND WIFE AND CHILDREN ARE WAITING FOR YOU. IF ITS IN APRIL OR MAY. WE ARE STILL HERE FOR ALL OF YOU. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL OF YOU. I AGREE WITH THE THOUGHT THAT WAS SPOKEN EARLIER SOME MOM’S AND WIFES WILL NOT HAVE A SOLDIER COMING HOME. ANGELS ARE ALL AROUND YOU. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU

By military wife

March 14, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

I just have one thing to say. From the very beginning, the families have been told the only one who can tell you dates or any information about a certain soldier is that certain soldier. That still being true, talk to your soldier before you start assuming the worst of everything. Also, do not believe everything you read or see in the media. The media is getting a general statement and the comments do not apply to everyone. I pray that my husband returns safely no matter when it is.

By SGT Kimberly Schatz

March 14, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this

Here is a release from our folks that put out news releases:

*You may be aware that some media outlets are reporting that several units of the 48th Brigade may be delayed in returning from Iraq.

In order to provide you the most up to date information, we want to share with you a copy of a news release being sent this afternoon to statewide media.

48th Brigade Expected to Return Home As Planned Say Georgia Guard Officials

Georgia National Guard officials have confirmed that there are no plans to delay the homecoming of members of the 48th Brigade Combat Team serving in Iraq.

“The plan at this time is to have all of the 4,200 members of the unit home by the middle of May as originally scheduled,” said Major General Terry Nesbitt, commander of the Georgia Army National Guard.

While exact dates of the actual return have not been released, Guard officials have confirmed the first departures from Iraq will begin in mid-April and extend through the middle of May.

News reports in recent days indicated that some units face the possibility of extensions in Iraq. The reports are being discounted by Georgia Guard officials.

“The timing of return of all of our deployed Soldiers depends on the needs of the commanders in Iraq,” said Nesbitt. “But there is currently no change anticipated involving the 48th Brigade.”

Nesbitt added that because aircraft schedules, the return flights could be adjusted by several days, even at the last minute. But he said this is normal for large groups of Soldiers returning from a war zone.

Following their return to the U.S., the Soldiers are expected to be on duty at Fort Stewart, near Savannah, for about a week to undergo medical reviews and administrative out-processing. They will return to their hometowns to be released from active duty.

More than 3,000 members of Georgia’s 48th Infantry Brigade, augmented by Guardsmen from six other states, deployed to Iraq last May. The 48th Brigade includes units from nearly 30 hometown armories across the state.*

All I have to say on the matter is that someone in the media heard something and ran like crazy with it. Haven’t you folks learned to NOT trust what the media says at face value by now??? Having just returned from Kuwait myself, they’re not gonna tell anyone over radio, newspaper, or any other non-secure means of communication when any of our Soldiers are coming home… THAT’S called OPSEC, spelled out: Operational Security, and it’s something that keeps SOLDIERS, SAILORS, AIRMEN, AND MARINES in that war-zone ALIVE. Please think about that, now that everyone has worked themselves into a royal tizzy that was completely useless! Just my $0.02. Thank you.

By SGT Kimberly Schatz

March 14, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

I have been waiting for an hour for my comment to post, but I guess posting the truth is taking a back seat to selling more papers…

If folks will read the article… these guys ARE NOT being extended, they are just being kept in Baghdad rather than moving them to one of the other 48th locations, I’m sure the logic is, hey, we only gotta move once, and that move is to go home!

What I also tried to state, is no one should trust a sensationalist media, any dates that are put out will ALWAYS be put out at the last minute, and will not be broadcast in an unsecure manner like this. That, in military parlance is OPSEC, and it’s designed to protect Soldiers!

Please think about this before people keep getting themselves upset and worked into a tizzy!!

By chill out

March 14, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

First of all everybody just sit back and take a deep breath. I am a wife of a 48th soldier so I know the feelings you are all going through. And for the comment made by “NG” apparently you have never tried to get a hotel resevation at Hinesville. When the guys deployed there were some families having to stay up to an hour away. There aren’t enough hotels in the area to support this type of return. So yes the families are trying to make reservations now. To the families, most of the hotels are prepared for this situation and will reserve a room for up to 30 days. So just try to use the tentative schedule and make your reservations around those dates. Alot of them have a 24hr cancellation policy, so you can call everyday before time for check in to cancel for the next day. Just ask when making your reservations.And if you are already on the list for a room they are more accomadating with those people than with the ones just calling to make one. So with that advice make your own plans. Use this time to make your plans and arrangements and just be glad we are on the home stretch. Now if they don’t come home by May 30th then go to the capital and take a stand. Let’s all remember May will be 1 year in country and that is what we were told in the begining. So that is what I will depend on. Planning on anything before that date will only lead to disappointment and anger. Thanks

By Proud of Alpha 1/121 and the Brigade

March 14, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

I would also like to say I am proud of every soldier within the 48th BCT no matter where they are located. Thank you to all of the Brigade for performing such a superior job! Keep in mind that this was a year deployment. I can see being upset after we hit that year mark and our soldiers are not home, but come on folks we can make it till May and they will all be home safe. Thank you to every wife, husband, son, daughter, mother and father for supporting your soldier and the mission they are performing! Hooah!

By Were they drafted?

March 14, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

Last I remember they, including my husband, signed on the dotted line. We knew what we were getting into when they left. Mine was also on the first plane out will be one of the last groups coming home. They were never all going to be home on the same day anyway. Most will come home with thier company but if you think all 4500+ will be home on the same day then you are sadly mistaken. There is a system believe it or not. There are other units coming in to relieve our guys and nothing can happen until they get there. So don’t be so naive and think that everything is going to happen the way you think it should. And to One Angry Wife: I just hope your soldier isn’t as angry as you are. Hopefully he is not as ignorant as you sound. Who do you think is going to listen to you at the Capital? I suggest you reread the article and calm down. I don’t believe every thing I read.

By Cpl Soldier

March 14, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

Well, first off I would like to say that I am part of the 48th BDG, and reading some of these articles has really embarrassed me. I am from a unit that has been moved, attached, assigned, and reassigned the whole time over here. We have been told dates, and yes, we always expect them to change, that is life, army or not, things do change. As far as the “Angry Wife”, I would be ashamed if my wife was to act like that, we want support, not cry babies! Your husband’s unit will not be coming home much later than our expected dates, within a week to be exact, so if there are wives that can wait that long, then it should not be an issue for you. Another point, they were supposed to return around 15 April, right? Well, what about the people that were supposed to leave two or three weeks after that? From what you are saying, the bridgade should all come home together, or it isn’t right, but they were leaving earlier than alot of the BDG was scheduled to, so why shouldn’t they have had to wait on everyone else? Seems like a two way street to me. So realize there are no ways to make it perfect, we can’t all fly at the same time, so some will be home before others, and that is as simple as it gets. Like someone else said, be thankful you have someone coming home to you, because there are families that don’t get that. So quite crying and complaining, we don’t need the pitty parties, we need support.

I want to take the time to thank everyone for all their prayers and support, it means more than you all will ever know. Hope to see everyone soon!

Georgia Soldier

By fred

March 14, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

The homecoming is not going to be delayed. The Guard has planned for a mid-May movement home, and that’s still the plan.

Although the article is poorly written and doesn’t covey it, the delayed movement referred to is to points within the Iraq theater.

The Guard has released a notice verifying this that should be made available to the FRG’s today.

By Kathy Singleton

March 14, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

I am reading the article and comments about Charlie company, I am so disappointed that they are being delayed in Baghdad, my son is in Charlie company but has been sent to the states for treatment of a back injury. I will continue to wear my bracelet stating “until each one is home” It is very worn and almost coming apart, but even though my son is stateside, I will not take it off until all of our soldiers are home! I pray for each of them daily and will continue to do so until they are home. They have been through a very rough time and I never realized how stressed I was until my son was on this side of the world again. I felt like I was holding my breath for a year! I want to urge all families to pray and fast with urgency until our soldiers are safely home…what a fantastic celebration we can have then….hold on and know one mom is praying in North Carolina……

By sgt flynn

March 15, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this

First off I would like to say thank you to everyone for your support of all soldiers being deployed. And a special thank you to my beautiful wife Christy. Nothing is harder than being seperated from your loved ones for any given time but everyone knows freedom is not free. I believe in what i do and i support our president 100 percent on his decision to be here. Personally I have just as much respect and admiration for all the families back home that have had to step up and keep everything going while there spouses are being deployed. I have seen so many blogs in here with people complaining , Take that energy and use it in a positive manner.Take 2 minutes and think about all the people involved in this. The wives and our children. Our parents and our friends. I have been in Iraq for almost 11 months but I can find a hundred reasons to still be thankful and positive. If you really care about your spouse over hear then let him hear positive remarks,not complaining and whining and God willing we will be home soon. thanks

By Polk

March 15, 2006 04:16 AM | Link to this

Listen, regardless what the media says, all the 48th BDE soldiers will be home in the month of May! Yes, it is unfortunate that it was told to many soldiers that they would be coming home in April. But bottom-line, as long as we’re home NLT the 31st of May, it’s all good. So spouses, don’t let a few weeks discourage you on your significant others return home. Keep the faith, and it’s almost over. Oh by the way, I’ve been here since 15 May 2005 myself, and I won’t be home until May. Hooah!

By Janeen Fritzler

March 15, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this

As upsetting as it may be having a return date changed. Try having there 2 week leave cancelled. My husband’s leave was cancelled with no explanation or reason. My husband and I are from Oklahoma and my husband was called up to help support the 48th and he’s been gone since July and we deserve the right to his 2 week leave just like everyone else. While the rest of the 48th got there 2 week leave he didn’t. Nobody seemed to care when this happened to us and it’s terrible to handle alone. I do feel for the troops and it’s not right to give them a date and then change it. My husband’s morale hasn’t been the same since Feb.1 and it’s very disappointing to have a date and then have it changed. We had a date Feb. 1 for my 3 kids to see there dad again after 7 months of not seeing him and then instead of changing that date it wasn’t changed it was just gone. Take is from a pro on disappointment it’s hard to take. When my husband returns with the 48th hopefully in May, it will be our 1st time to see him since he left. At this time I don’t tell anyone that he’s suppose to be home even then. My kids can’t take another disappointment. I always tell him we’ll see him whenever. He knows where here and just waiting for him.
Patiently waiting in Okla.

By Dixie

March 15, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

Get tough and suck it up! They are so short now they can barely see each other.Im proud of all of you.We will be here no matter when you get home. Alpha Co.1/121 Get Krunked! HOORAH !!!!

By jack

March 15, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

I was not shocked at this news, however it is my understanding that this unit has a history during weekends and practice drills of being the last one and also a unit that stays overtime. Now, what this may mean is that this unit is well qualified…however my concern is that this will carry over. If this truly was the first time to be held over…might understand…but from my information this unit has been treated differently than the others….just hand in there and when you get back we can find out if politics really does exist…

By ssg gibson

March 15, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

I have been in the GA Guard for almost 20yrs. Infact I have been in the Gainesville company the whole time.I have too come to understand the meaning of changes.It accures frequently when it comes to time-lines.But to me it doesn’t matter if it is in April or May or even if it is August.Yes the later it is the more upset I would be.I too have a family back home that I love and miss and have not seen since July of last year.Everyone by now should know about the time-hacks that we are given.They have changed since the begining of our deployment and i guess that is what upsets alot of people.It upsets us over here also but we learn to deal with it as always.We are given dates and we pass them on back home so that the families can plan ahead for work and schools.It’s harder on them than it is for us.Like us I don’t think the families can depend on any dates they are given which can be very frustrating not knowing when that(date) also will change. My wife feels like we (charlie company)will be placed on the back burner as always.We have been doing combat patrols since June 2005 and continue to do so to this day.She was told that there was no 48th doing any type of combat missions back around Dec.That is not true.She asked me why they said that knowing that Co C was still patrolling and I could not give her an answer.Then she wants to know why dates keep changing.Again I have no answer for her.When we got the word that we would come home erlier than May,she was so happy she was in tears.Later i had to break the news to her.She was not happy at all and I could not answer her why the change once again. The deal is I don’t know where some of the people back home get their information.Yes we was told that we would do combat ops until around Nov then we would move to a different location and be performing a lesser(hazardess)operation.That did not take place.We are still here and doing our job well.That is one of the reasons I think that we remain here.They needed someone they could depend on and Co C 1/121 was the one to complete that mission.I am very proud to serve with the people in my unit.They are all great guys and they are performing at their best.Their capable of completing the mission at hand.The question is when will the mission be complete? That will determine when we fly home.Until then we will be hearing dates and changes as we go on with our mission.They will have to replace us sometime in the future.When,who knows.For those back home,just be patient and be proud that your soldier is part of the best company that the 48th has doing combat mission in Iraq.We’re doing it!!! GET-R-DONE

By Wife of SSG Long

March 15, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

I have read everyone’s comments good and bad. For those who say, don’t believe the media, we were told by our FRG through the military that C Co 1/121 was to be leaving early. They would leave April 15 due to the fact they are still in the war zone as a bonus. It did not get extended a month by any means. I myself am also sick of hearing the whiny comments. BUT, it is human nature to complain and our ancestors fought and died for our right to complain. I believe the angry people wrote their comment in haste. Do not forget the KIA, POW and MIA. And Jane Fonda should NOT receive honors for anything!

By J. Tibbs

March 15, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

I, THE MOM OF A 48TH BRG. CHARLIE CO. SOILDER. SAYS, BRING THEM HOME IT IS TIME FOR IRAQ TO SETTLE THERE OWN WARS. OUR MEN AND WOMEN HAVE DONE ALL THEY CAN DO FOR THESE PEOPLE. IF BUSH WANTS TO STAY LONGER. LET HIM SEND HIS FAMILY, AND LOVED ONES OVER THERE. WE PRAY FOR OUR MILITARY. AND PRAY FOR THERE FAMILIES ALSO. THANK ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR BRAVERY..WE LOVE YOU ALL. GOD BLESS,,

By cadet

March 15, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

WOW. I find all of these posts incredibly interesting. As someone about to go into the army I find it interesting to see the responses to this article. I go to a military school so my perspective is strictly the military aspect so to see comments from the civilian side is interesting. Kudos to EVERY SINGLE person involved with the 48th…whether it be a soldier, a wife, mother, father, child, sibling, relative, or friend. Now with that said…treat your soldier like the person you love, not as a president or system you hate. Yes, some of the stuff goingon stinks, but remember, YOU LOVE your soldier! Show your undying support and gratitude to them. After all, you aren’t there fighting, they are. Send some LOVE to them, they are proud to be there and frankly, they aren’t allowed to complain much so don’t complain for them. Let your soldier know how proud you are!

By soldiers wife

March 15, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

Wife of SSG Long: I know you were told that they were due to come home April 15 and that is what the email forwarded to us from Gen R. had said BUT it also said “TENTATIVE” You have got to know that tentative means “it will change” and it has. I’m sure it will change several time between now and then. My soldier was first due 4/15, then 5/9 now 5/3. Who know??!! When he calls me from Kuwait and tells me they are boarding a plane, that is when I will tell other family members and friends. Patience, everyone.

By stacy

March 15, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Wow, its amazing how almost every single person feels that their soldier has the worst possible job, and their soldiers unit is the most mistreated. Come on people, this is a war and our soldiers have done an outstanding job. The accomplishments they have made are truly wonderful. Its a shame that the families back home cant show a little of their determination and fortitude. 1. NO,you and your soldier dont have it worse than anyone else. I know of several wives, mothers, and children who will never see their soldier again (well on this side anyway) and they have managed to show much more grace and strength than has been displayed on these pages. 2. no your soldiers unit is not being intentionally picked on.
3. Reading something in the newspaper does not make it a fact. Although in this case it seems more of a problem of the article not being clearly written and many people not reading carefully. 4. The draft has not been inacted for this war, so if your soldier is over there, he/she made the choice to go when he/she took the oath. As for the person that wants to blame the FRG’s, the information that was sent out clearly said it was a tentative timeline, and the timeline referred to when the soldiers would arrive home. Unfortunately it appears that most people are more interested in rumors than in trying to figure out what is really going on.

By soldier's wife

March 16, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

I just cannot believe the time is getting so short I also daily pray for everyone over there and daily take a paper chain link off the chain realizing there are now so few left. There is an end in sight and I celebrate the return.
Each soldier is supported by the communities involved. I as a wife have had the support of friends, church members, people in walmart, people at every turn making sure that all was well with my family and if there was anything they could do to let me know how grateful for the work my husband was doing. Daily I have been renewed by their generosity and compassion. When I cried they held me, when I laughed they laughed with me.
I am sorry you were not treated the same, perhaps then it was because you did not let people know where you were, what you were going through. Through the depths of the despair these days have brought, I have been renewed daily by those around me…. often the at the most unexpected turns there was yet another waiting to encourage me and strengthen me by their words.

By Ter

March 16, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

Are You Kidding Me!! what in the world are they doing to our soldiers, our Hero’s, our family members minds… It is bad enough they are over there in a COMBAT ZONE for months and months at a time and that they are Not receiving their promotions that are promised to them, and that they are National Guard Not full time army and Yet are doing more than some of the full time enlisted guys are, but now you are telling them they are coming home finally after being in the direct line of fire for almost a year only for it to be ripped out from under them… mentally war, killing, and losing friends, is hard enough on these Brave Heros but to mess with the idea of getting to finally get out of that forsaken combat zone and then tell them NO “we” decided not only are you not going home but you are going to a Worse area and are staying longer…. What in the world is wrong with our GEORGIA officials?? get some back bone and get our guys home and send in the full time enlisted guys and I just pray that they are not treated like this. To all of you in this unit GOD is with each of you and HE does not make mistakes so know that he has a plan for each of you and hang in there our HEROS

By M

March 16, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

This is to “Ter”: I agree that they have been there for a long time and it is time for them to come home, however…It is NOT the Georgia officials, with no backbone apparently, that are choosing to keep the troops from Georgia there. And it is not as simple as bring home the reservists and send in the full timers. There is a system aas too how the troops from the different levels (active, reserve, guard) are sent over there. Unfortunately in the timinng it was the guards “turn” to go to the combat zone. I do not know how exactly all is decided, I do not work with them, but I am well informed do to my duty with the army how it works. I know it stinks and I am not justifying anything I just want to make it a little more clear to you that they are not picking on the guard. That is just how it worked. And God lets everything happen for a reason and he is just as much God over the Georgia officials as the troops. He guides the oficials and he allowed for them to be put in an authoritative spot for a reason. So please DO NOT claim that God is only with the soldiers because HE is God of all of us. And you are right, He doesn’t make mistakes!

By Michael Castagna

March 16, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

Your right Angie, they need to pull their Big Girl Panties up. Sure its hard on families while their loved ones are away, but remember you ladies supported your husbands when he enlisted and he has a job to do, no matter if extended. Just support your loved one. Dont have him worry over there about your drama queen antics. God bless your loved ones, be proud of him and support him no matter how long extended if so.

By ter

March 16, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

thank you M I relize that GOD is over all I also relize that sometimes people are put in authoritive positions only to Not always do what is right. But also I do relize that things are all through procedures and all things have to go through channels I am not blaming this “all” on the Georgia officials I am simply saying enough is enough. Yes God does not make mistakes and HE has had our Hero’s do a fantastic job over there but hey you have to agree they have done their duty and it’s high time they caught a break and got to come home as is due them. why is it the rest of the unit does not seem to be having this trouble? come on now lets bring these guys home they have been through enough and I don’t feel these “bad Timing” things should be -little all that those wonderful soldiers have done over there. JUST GIVE THEM THEIR PROMOTIONS< AND LET THEM COME HOME.< GIVE THEM THEIR FAIR SHAKE. they’ve done what’s right now let the U.S do what’s right!!!!!!

By concerned wife

March 16, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

I am the wife of a soldier over in Iraq. He left on the advance party at the begining of May last year. He is also one of the ones to come home last.Yes, at first I looked at it as if he left on the advance party then he should be one of the first to come home. It doesnt work that way. So, just pray and be thankful if you have someone coming home to you. Stop the crying. Be proud of your loved one.

By ashley pitts

March 16, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

I am the wife of one of the soldiers attached to the 10th Mountian and I am just thankful that he is coming home at all. I do have one thing though, I am living in New York while he is away and I have not been kept in the loop on anything. Can any of you tell me how to contact the FRG person??? I so hate getting my info from here lol. Please help somebody!! My email address is dagoprincess666@aol.com

By Michelle Poe

March 16, 2006 08:08 PM | Link to this

You are all my heros, just come home safe. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you, and your families. I am proud of every man and woman serving in our military. It is an all volunteer force, and these brave, dedicated men and women willingly, voluntarily went to war to protect our freedoms, as well as the human rights of a people in despair and ruin. I cannot express enough appreciation for your sacrifices, and the sacrifices of your families. I salute you all. God be with you and bring you all home safe, whenever that may be.

By HJJ

March 16, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

I am the father of a 48th soldier. I have spoken with him a few times and asked him when he thought he would be leaving…His answer has never changed from day one….“Dad I will be home when my happy (butt) steps off the plane” Lucky for me and him, he did 4 yrs regular Army. Before joining the 48th. A year in Korea and time with the 3rd ID including a 6 to 8 month deployment to Kosovo. So for him “Hurry Up and Wait” is SOP. I just support him in what ever he does and pray that he and the rest of the U.S. Military personel get home safe. I hope that it will be in May…but no matter what day or month … I will just be gald to see “His happy “butt” step off the plane.”

By Tracy

March 16, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

HATS OFF TO ALL THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY….THIS WAR HAS TAKEN ALOT OF SOLDIERS LIVES AND IT IS VERY DISHEARTENING TO KNOW THAT OUR MEN AND WOMEN COULD BE IN THAT UNCIVILIZED, NOT CARING PEOPLE WHO DONT CARE ABOUT KILLING THEIR OWN PEOPLE,AND DONT FORGET ABOUT BLOWING THEMSELVES UP WORLD……ALWAYS EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS…AND YES THE PEOPLE WHO CONSIDER THE USA OUR ENEMIES AND HATE US SO MUCH I PRAY FOR THEM TOO…….GOD BLESS ALL YOU WOMEN AND MEN WHO HAVE SERVED, SERVES, BEEN WOUNDED OR KILLED FOR OUR COUNTRY…..

By berty's baby

March 16, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

This deployment has been rough. It has given a lot of spouses the opportunity to show their husbands and wives what we are made of. My daughter and I have become strong, self-sufficient ladies that can and will wait until our man comes home. We have pulled up our big girl panties and tied them up with a yellow ribbon. Show our troops how much they have taught us about ourselves, our strengths and our love of the freedoms that were given to us by the soldiers that went before them, with them and will go after them. Part of being adults is learning to deal with disappointment. I don’t care if my husband is in Timbuktu, he’s alive and he will be coming home sooner or later. I’m proud of you Bert! I love you.

By Proud American

March 17, 2006 01:28 AM | Link to this

First, I come from a family of military members…my dad was Navy, my brother Marines, my other brother Army Guard, my sister Air Force, my other sister Army, my brother’s son Marines, and my son Coast Guard. Also, my brother-in-law is Navy. So as you can see, my family is represented in all the branches of the U.S. military…and my Mom and I are very proud!

My brother in the Marines retired two years ago, at which time he had served 24 proud years with the Corps. One year into his retirement (last year), he was re-called by the Corps. He is now deployed for 1 1/2- 2 years. His son leaves this summer for Iraq.

My sister in the Air Force is on deployment to Afghanistan…she volunteered. This is her second deployment for OEF. She returned last year from a year-deployment to Kryzjistan, and within months, left on her current deployment.

My sister in the Army is a 28-year vet. She was active Army for 14 years and has spent the last 14 1/2 years in the Army Guard. She was at Desert Storm and she volunteered for Iraq in 2004. She was the only female in her Guard unit that volunteered and went. She was injured in an IED attack on her convoy. She, like my other sister, also just returned last year, and within months, she heard they needed combat medics for Afghanistan, Iraq, HOA, so she volunteered again. She left last month on an 18-month deployment. May God be with her.

With the exception of my Mom and I, my entire family is in the military! So my mom, myself, my sisters/brothers-in-law, and the rest of the family have more than just one person to worry about coming home.

When my sister in the Army’s time came close to when we thought she’d be heading home from Iraq, I asked her when she’d be back for sure. She said, “I can’t tell you that…its OPSEC.” She said, “How long have I been in the Army? You should know that by now. You’ll know when I’m home when I hit stateside. I’ll call you.”

She called a couple of times just to tell us she was still ‘in country’ and she’d call when she got to the states. Well, that didn’t happen until over two weeks after her last phone call from ‘in country’. That’s because although she left Iraq, she spent more than two weeks in Kuwait waiting to fly out. She said she and her fellow soldiers got on the plane 5 or six times only to be told to get off because of course, the war mission comes first, and something took precedence over her flight heading home. Even after hitting stateside, she still had to de-MOB (and I hope you know how long that takes!) She was attached as medical support to the 1st Cav, and 39th BCT, so she de-MOBed at Ft. Sill.

So to the ‘Angry Wife’ and others like her…I suggest you suck it up and drive on…cuz what happens when you hear your husband’s heading out of Iraq and then he doesn’t get stateside until 2, 3, 4 weeks later? Are you gonna blame that on his command, the Army, the President? Get real, girl. ‘Mission first’, ‘needs of the Army’…those are phrases you need to believe in, embrace, if you intend to spend your life with an Army soldier.

HOOAH, CHARLIE COMPANY….HOOAH 48TH BDE!! The Lord is with you and so are are prayers.

God Speed.

(P.S. My Master Sgt. Army sister always said: The needs of the Army and the mission comes first. We need the undying support of our families in times like this…

so quit whining…and like Angie said…pull up your BIG girl panties…you need somebody to yank your chain, girl, and put you in perspective!)

By Karen

March 17, 2006 03:44 AM | Link to this

My son has not been living at home since Jan of 05 with the California training and is not scheduled to come home till close to the middle of May. That would make his full year in Iraq .We have been kept informed as much as we could on this . We have been told nothing is etiched in stone, things can and as we all know change daily, sometime hourly. I hope and pray for all our military, including the families left behind just as we have been .Yes, I can see where there is dissappointment but we can all be greatful they will be returning. As we all know this year we have some HERO’S that won’t be coming home to us .Let’s look forward to seeing our HERO’s whenever they get home. They will not all be arriving together anyway .Let’s be thankful they will be arriving at all. A Proud Mom

By k

March 17, 2006 10:28 AM | Link to this

to the wife of the soldier that didn’t get his leave, know that you are not alone. there are others that share in your pain. my husband suffered trying to get his leave. It was given taken changed and done all over again. I would like to point out that yet again Charlie company is not the only company being screwed. ALPHA COMPANY is also currently being screwed (as usual).
i support my husband very much. i love him and he knows it. i look at this situation as a job that must be done. he dreamed of being in the army and it isn’t his fault that when the time came we were at war (a war that was supposedly over). yes he chose to join the military it was his dream. that was what he wanted. i didnt want him to change his dream because of our president. that was not fair to him. i also didnt want him to change his dream for me. so please know that i do support my husband very much. as for all the date changes i have come to expect them. i would appreciate it if the AJC would accurately and fairly cover the entire brigrade. it is hard explaing to people that what is being reported doesn’t inclide my husband. they don’t undesatnd especially when the news says ” all of the 48th”. i will stop venting now. just please continue to pray. that is really all we can do.

By Proud 48th BDE

March 17, 2006 10:43 AM | Link to this

I understand that people are disappointed about things not going as originally they were told, but come one how long have we all been dealing with the 48th BDE?

When the dates were sent out from your FRG you were told this is TENTATIVE. If anyone made hotel reservations on that, then maybe you should be feeling some resentment and let down but you should direct it all to yourself not anyone else.

To Bert’s Baby.. a big HOOAH!!! You hit the nail on the head!

We (the families) have come along way in this past year, to far to let this make us all whine and cry about it. There are many of our “sisters” that won’t be able to welcome home their Heroes when the rest of their unit returns, you see they’ve already had their reunion but only one of them was alive for it. How do you think this whining, moaning, complaining is making them feel?

For the record, my husband was on the first plane out, he’ll be on the last plane in, his R&R leave was jerked around about 5 or 6 times before we got a date, so don’t think I don’t understand where the families of these soldiers are coming from.

As has been stated here many times.. we were told May 2006 from the get go, so just take April as a blessing and stop the whining!

By cavscout

March 17, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this

Let me start by stating the obvious. We aren’t even scheduled to come homen until May 5th. So even if they are delayed 30 days it is only right behind our dates. Second off. My unit is the Cav Troop, we are currently seperated and farther north than even C co. We have to run missions here until our last day. YES, we will go out on a mission that night, come in the next morning, then start are base jumping home that day. As far as the other crap, WE ALL signed the contract knowing that we could be deployed, and we all knew that if so, it would be longer than Active duty b/c we had to do a train up. You soldier will still be home under his one year mark in country so show support, i can almost say that I am close to being ashamed to be fighting for people like AngryWife to express there views. As far as the notification, your soldiers would be notified before the release, so fuss at them for not telling you. God Bless all who have fought for AngryWife’s rights, we will be home soon.

By by sandman

March 17, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

to cavscout you need to get a life we know very well what we have to do by the way home is spelled HOME NOT HOMEN

By Griffin CAV-wife

March 17, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

Gooooo CAV!!!! Whoa!! We’re listening guys, we’re just not cryin! Be Safe in Balad!! See you in May!!

By Tommy Wells

March 17, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

This is how the military is????? Hurry up and wait???? Hang in there, God will see all you heros back in GEORGIA. TOmmy a DAV.

By Ter

March 18, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

I just want to follow up and say to all who have soldiers from the 48th and that are going through waiting for them to come home some of us agree and some don’t agree on who to blame for what. As for me it is like the lines from a famous christian song—“It is just my 2 cents you can take it or leave it. I just think we can do better than this.” (for our soldiers) and the one thing we can ALL agree on is we could not be more PROUD of each of our Heros over there May God Bless each of you we ALL love you…..

By J

March 19, 2006 04:18 AM | Link to this

for the record, my husband did not do the train up in california. he might have gotten a rush job at ft stewart. 1 month after he left home he was in Iraq. meaning he went from home to ft stewart to iraq all in 30-45 days time. i am not sure of the exact date he left home, but i do know it was definetely less than 2 months.

By I'm a whiner, whiner,WHINER

March 19, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Yep, by the definition of most on this blog I’m a WHINER! I’m proud of it, too. Everytime a wife, husband, mom, dad or sibling expresses their fear, worry, anger etc. they get called a whiner by the brigade cheerleaders. People are different and handle stress in different ways. Give us a break. Also, the often used phrase “be glad your soldier is coming home because many families won’t ever see theirs again ” just doesn’t ring true at this point. I had a distant family member who was killed with less than a week left before he was due to leave Iraq. Extending the time this unit stays in combat brings with it the possibility that the same thing could happen to some of them. These troops aren’t entirely safe until they are back on U.S. soil.

By Nettie

March 20, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Thank you is too small a word. I remember the feeling that all the families must have had this morning. I am 46 yrs old. But I am suddenly 8 yrs old am i am waiting for my Daddy to get off that plane from Vietnam . thank you for all you have done. Thank you to the families for sharing, daddies , husbands, sons with all of us. Remember not just the soldiers but the families waiting at home are remarkable people. Welcome home.

By angela knoll

March 20, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

My cousin Terry Hawkins has been in the army since he was 17 years old. He has given us (the US ) his heart ,mind and body.I wish that all of that were in print as well as a few words that he might have said at a time when he was told that he would not be seeing his 4 babies and wife.I for one would like to say ” THANK YOU 48th ” Angela

By Future CAV Wife

March 21, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

I am very sorry to hear that some of the solders are being held back longer. I am sure it is upsetting to be given a date, and then have it extended. After reading some if the comments, I was very dissapointed. I don’t get it, did you not realize that this deployment is for 545 days. That doesn’t mean you should count on your solder being home in 500 days, or 515 days. It means 545. Some solders are scheduled to come home in April, and the others in May. My solder and his unit were some of the first to get there, and will be some of the last to leave. But you know what, I am just happy that he is going to make it home a few days early, and alive. How could I possibly ask for more. I too want my solder home soon. Hell, I wanted him home 2 days after he left. But these men are doing their jobs. One person made a comment that “this wasn’t what her husband signed up for”. Are you kidding me??? What did you think he signed up for, a vacation in Disney World?? Instead of complaining about a few days extension why don’t you put all that energy somewhere else, like supporting a family who has lost a loved one in combat. If given the chance, why don’t you walk up to a widow and tell her your troubles, I am sure she will understand. When you married your solder, you also married the army my dear. So suck it up, and instead of whining about a few days, why don’t you thank the good Lord that your solder is making it home. SCOUTS OUT

By Missing my Soldier

March 21, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

I want to sat thank you to all of “our troops” for the job they have done.God Bless each and everyone of them. I do however want to say, I have not even received notice of any kind concerning my husbands return.That is what upsets me. But I do look at it in a positive way, my husband will be coming home.If anyone knows the 48ths FRG number, could I plz. get it ? PRAYING EVERY DAY

By WOW

March 22, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

WOW….I hate that some Guard members got held back. I guess now they will come home when my husband comes home now. He’s on the last flight out. First flight in..last flight out…Nothing like doing your job excellent. If you do your job outstanding you get the pleasure of leaving last……If you are a screw-up you get sent back to the US in the advance party.

By A Wise Mother

March 22, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

I am ashamed to say my son if part of the 48th Brigade with the way all you WIVES are acting. Please GROW UP. Our boys are in a war. You are all complaining about when they will come home, who will be left behind, etc. No one will be left behind. Logically it is impossible to bring 4500 men home all at one time. They didn’t all go at one time and they can’t possibly all come home at one time. And as far as going to the capital if your husband doesn’t come home with or before anyone else…march on honey. I didn’t march when my son was at Yusifiha, detached from any of the rest of his unit. When he didn’t communicate home for 3 to 4 weeks at a time. I am sure you have had communications this entire year. WE haven’t. My son hasn’t been able to call home or get on the internet. He hasn’t been able to tell me when he is moving. There were days he didn’t have a place to lay his head, but I realize it is WAR! They aren’t on vacation, they are in the midst of a war and with war we need to be supportive. So ladies GROW UP and learn to be patient. Your husband will be home. My son not only got seperated from his unit for over 6 months, he also is on one of the last flights home but I’m not planning to march to the capital. My time is too valuable, it needs to be spent in prayer for their safe return.

By Michael Castagna

March 22, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

Well said Wise mother. Some ladies are just drama queens no matter what the sit rep.

Michael Castagna SSG (ret)

By SoldierMomm

March 22, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU “By A Wise Mother ” Could not have said it better myself. Thank God we have KIDS that don’t complain - that do what they are told and learn from what they are going thru. My son more than likely knows yours as they were both in the same place - dealing with the same hell that was never really talked about. Can’t wait until they get home. I couldn’t be prouder of all of them. Will be thinking about you at “Homecoming”!

By Melissa

March 22, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

My comment is to the women who are complaining about when their husbands are gonna get to come home. They need to get on their knees and thank God that their husband is still alive and is going to get to come home. Unlike myself, my husband is not going to come home like your husbands are. Mine came home in a flag draped casket. so stop complaining and count your blessings your are going to get to see your husbands again and get to hold him and him hold you again. I will never have that again. Thank you

By Julie

March 23, 2006 05:23 AM | Link to this

My husband serves proudly in the United States Army. Highly dedicated and decorated. He’s over seas right now for a year. The third year he’s been gone of the past 5. It isn’t ‘complaining’ to want your husband home, SAFE. Even those who have lost their loved ones wish for them to be back home. My heart goes out to those who experience what thousands of spouses dread. I don’t wish for anyone to be a member of the elite club of Soldier’s widow/ers. I can only pray that their hurt is eased eventually and hope their support for the troops families going through deployments is strong and encouraging. Peace to all and bless our troops from all branches.

By SSG 108th

April 2, 2006 01:14 AM | Link to this

Gerald Williams’ comments are truly patriotic, heatfelt and encouraging to this old soldier. Thank you for your thoughtful and compassionate words. I only wish that everyone in our communities could try to live by your words to include our own families. I have not managed to live up to this myself, however; I will make a more concerted effort upon my return to help other families get through a deployment and ease thier burden, if even a little. The comments by Mr. Williams should be given space on the front page and not just for the sake 48th but for all Georgia (American) families with loved ones deployed. Mr. Williams, sir, I thank you and salute you.