The 48th goes to war

By Spc. Alton R. Dudley

August 12, 2005 07:55 PM | Link to this

yes i am with the 878th combat heavy engineers out of georgia. i was just reading your article on life at camp taji, iraq. i have visited several web sites and they have yet to mention our battalion. we were in iraq in 2003 til 2004. we were the original engineers that did the master planning for two different bases in iraq. one being Tallil Air base and Camp Taji. we were attached to the 1st AD and the 1st Cav. during our tour. yet we have never gotten the recognition we deserve. we have let everyone else take the credit for our work. now some of us are going back for another tour, i just hope this time our work does not go unappreciatd.

By a mad army sergeants wife

August 12, 2005 09:01 PM | Link to this

Well…it really must be nice for some soldiers to have it so good, while others live in deplorable conditions, eat crappy food and have to wear body armor even when they go to the bathroom. Thanks for rubbing it in.

By debralee

August 13, 2005 02:09 AM | Link to this

How nice. Too bad my son isn’t part of the “elite” and “privileged”. Two months later, the guys at joe and roe and the other crap-camps on the front are still trying to get shower facilities and a decent meal.

… I’d like to hear more about the scrambler’s that could stop the remote-controlled detonation of the ied’s that are killing our sons and husbands. If they are in the humvees? Why aren’t the activated? Who do you have to know to get equitment that works? There has been many items of interest brought up on this blog, concerning the conditions under which some of our Troops have to exist and to fight, that deserve to be investagited and reported on. …

By Kellie

August 13, 2005 02:16 AM | Link to this

Finally some news about the guys at Taji. What about the Maryland guys who are attached to the 118? Please don’t forget that its not only soldiers from Georgia who are serving with the 48th.

By Catrina Lowery

August 13, 2005 09:39 AM | Link to this

The Georgia Army National Guard’s 48th Brigade Combat Team

Sgt. 1st class Bruce Pitts, (THIS IS FOR YOU)

I am in love with a soldier, that soldier is you! As the days fade away and the nights slip up on me, I find myself clinging onto my prayers. Every night I pray to God that he will keep you in his arms. I pray that he keeps you out of harm’s way until we can finally be together again. I realized when you love a soldier you cannot expect anything. If you really love someone, the time and distance apart should not make a difference. The past few months have been hard especially since you are deployed to Camp Taji, Iraq and not here with me but no matter how far you are, our love will flourish and bloom in each other’s heart. I wait the day we reunite. I want the whole world to know that I love you Bruce and very proud of you, fight for our country, and hurry back home to me. You are my Hero,I love you bunches and miss you tons!

I love my soldier, Catrina Lowery

By Desaree

August 13, 2005 11:10 AM | Link to this

… I remember not so long ago when the previous writers stated that Camp Striker was like the 4 seasons. I do know that quite a large number of Soldiers in other Regular Army Units have these so called trailers to live in, and I was just wondering why such a large group of National Guard Soldiers are being left out in the dust, literally. Maybe somebody could do some good by researching this for our 48th Brigade Soldier’s because it’s not right. They deserve the same accomodations as the Regular Army Units get. Please speak up on behalf of our Soldiers still living in tents. They are performing the same difficult missions as every other Army unit.

By James Thorn

August 13, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this

The streets at Taji were all named by a unit of the South Carolina National Guard, hence “Gamecock” being a main drag. Another main road is “Razorback” since their parent unit was from the Arkansas National Guard. There is a Bulldog Street too.

By Lisa

August 13, 2005 01:42 PM | Link to this

Well how about that? Your name is ENVY! of course every soldier should have comfortable housing. This is a war zone folks!. Things need to be established and it takes time! Europe was not fixed with the end of WW2. IT TOOK 10 YEARS Before 1945 the fighing soldiers lived in foxholes, slept on the ground in rain and snow and freezing temperatures in their sleeping bags. I know of one who did this for 4 years. He came home took his time, had fun and then went to College. He went back and saw how the soldiers lived during the so-called ‘cold War’ and said ‘I wished we would have had as good and I am glad you got it now- “God bless” He was a good man and understood there is a time for war and peace. Right now everybody needs to understand this is a country in the making and nothing is perfect and when it is, we will leave. That is our mission!!!!

By Cindy Shelnutt

August 13, 2005 02:25 PM | Link to this

My husband isn’t at camp taji either but gee whiz, do you want only doom and gloom reported? In all wars there are going to be some that will have it better than others, it all depends where the soldier is located and so forth. For the ones that don’t have it so good all we can do is send them what we can to help them out and be glad that some have it somewhat decent while they are away from their families doing their duty. As family members we are suppose to be supporting all the soldiers and not be picking because some have it better than another. I also would like to thank Moni Basu and Bita Honarvar for your reporting. You have shown the tender side, the seriousness and the lite side of things. Since the ajc has been over there I pull it up on the computer daily to keep track of what is going on since my husband is there. When something major happens I know better than to ask him of any details and wait to get my information from the news, which is usually the ajc. I use the article to keep myself informed so I can be there for husband, SPC Joe Shelnutt when he needs me and to support him at this time in his life. Thank you again ajc. Cindy Shelnutt

By An SPC's Wife

August 13, 2005 02:26 PM | Link to this

… I too would like to hear more about the scramblers that could be saving our men. I would also like the truth to be told about this whole deployment. How our men were not even supposed to go. Gen. Rodeheaver kept needling the pentagon until they finally agreed to send our guys. Then, Rodeheaver got in trouble because his list of guard members contained names of people who ETSed 5 years ago - he needed the numbers to be sent. Hence, part of the Puerto Rican guard is there to make up the numbers.
TRUTH - we need more TRUTH.

By a proud wife

August 13, 2005 02:59 PM | Link to this

That is nice that the guys all have showers and extras but when they are only there for a few hours every couple of days it dosnt matter much now does it? The PX may be large but when all you want is the simple things and they dont have it again what difference does it make if it looks like Walmart. Please remember that the guys are all in this together and it sucks no matter where they are. Our guys at Taji are in just as much danger daily as the other guys and it should not become a contest to see who has the suckier job. They all do! Spc. Alton R. Dudley and crew- your work will never go unappreciated!

Thank you Moni for finally getting to Taji but make sure you are telling what the guys are really doing — not that they are relaxing by the pool that they dont have time to sit by!

To the MD boys! You ROCK! We are proud of you!

By Debbie

August 13, 2005 03:12 PM | Link to this

I hear all of the time about how great Taji is, and how they have everything. What everyone does not realize is that people such as my husband and his unit, never have a chance to use it. They are out for days, and only get to come in to sleep for a couple of hours. The danger is everywhere over there, and I don’t like people having the impression that just because they are there, they are living it up and not doing a dangerous job.

By Robert

August 13, 2005 03:26 PM | Link to this

Glad to see that things are looking up for some of our Georgia troopers over in Iraq. Hope that everyone’s facilities can be upgraded to that level at some point. Stay safe guys & keep up the good work! Proud Former 48th Brigade Member, Robert

By Beverly

August 13, 2005 04:21 PM | Link to this

Isn’t it just typical how often those of us with loved ones at the deplorable fobs get reminded that there’s “a WAR going on”? Well, the last time I looked the war was also going on at Liberty, Victory, Taji, and the other Camps with all the amenities too. Our problem isn’t with what your soldier has. Our problem is with the conditions that our loved ones are having to fight and exist in when something could be done about it. This isn’t the 40’s or 60’s…it’s 2005. The ability to improve the smaller fobs is available. It’s just never been a priority because the Higher-Ups don’t stay there. Plain and simple. ENVY? I don’t think so. ANGRY? You bet. My family has spent thousands of dollars sending basic humanitarian items that no 21st century soldier should have to do without. These fobs have been operating for years. Time isn’t the factor. Opportunity isn’t the factor. Ability isn’t the factor. Unless, and until, those in command start staying at Row or Joe I don’t expect there will ever be any changes. My son will do his job even without what he needs to do it. And he won’t complain. He’s just that kind of soldier. But why should he have to. If the power’s that be don’t wish to bulid up or provide better for the smaller fobs why can’t they at least rotate the guys out now and then so that YOUR HUSBAND can experience the WAR these guys are living? Once again, we really don’t have a problem with the amenities some of the troops have. They deserve everything they get. Our problem is that the ability to improve our loved one’s lives is available …but evidently deemed not neccessary.

By a solider's mom

August 13, 2005 04:48 PM | Link to this

To an SPC’s Wife. Here is a link you can go to for more information. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/an-vlq-9.htm I think it’s time we started asking the hard questions too. Our guys are far too loyal to question why their brother’s have had to die when some of those ieds could have been stopped. What is going on? And why isn’t something being done? Why wasn’t something done before the 11 died in 11 days? It’s going to be up to us; the wives, father’s, mother’s, brother’s, sister’s and interested american’s to call our congressmen and senators and find out why our Guardsmen are dying when they have the technology there that could have saved them. Our guardsmen deserve better. Let’s see if we can get it for them.

By Marie

August 13, 2005 06:04 PM | Link to this

I just want some of the people that are concerned about the conditions at the FOB’s to take heart…our men and women are tough…they do not need flat screen tv’s to be at peace. What a wonderful experience to have been given the privlege to have. I thank God for every difficulty in my life…it has made me a stronger and better person. These men and women are brave strong Americans. They impress and humble me. Rather than wanting “luxuries” often they ask for gifts for the Iraqi people. Rather than necessities often what my man craves more than anything is a letter or a chat. It is his second tour and he was just recently transfered OUT of a FOB to Camp Taji….but he would happily go wherever he is called. He lost 30 lbs over the last year and a half and was tired and hungry and disheartened at times…but how lucky he has been to have had the experience…how strong and brave and resillent he has become. What a blessing. God calls those he trusts most (think Job) sometimes and what a glory it is to Him and to us that our soldiers stand up hear the call and rejoice in His name for their lives however difficult or painful…. I pray for peace for the families that are suffering at home (I suspect in some ways it is the harder lot) and increased glory for us all in His name. May our mission be succesful our hearts pure and our peace and faith unwavering. My love to you all.

By Gene

August 13, 2005 09:04 PM | Link to this

Hang on, folks. We have to win this one. Watch out for those who hope to get a VietNam type protest going. They are not interested in us or our troops. Keep it up, AJC..tell what our troops are accomplishing as well as the bad times and the good. Thank you to all of the families that have sons, daugthers, spouses, friends over there doing the job. Counsel those who weaken and become jealous and snide.

By Janica

August 13, 2005 09:11 PM | Link to this

Life at Taji. OK you told us about the living conditions…that was a no brainer..now tell us about the life and death missions these guys go on, the sleep deprivation… show the whole picture.

By A Soldeirs Wife

August 13, 2005 09:44 PM | Link to this

Look guys if Gen. Rodeheaver really did that we should not attack him. Calling our Congressmen and Senators will only cause trouble for our soldiers. I have heard of a soldier who did call in congressman and once his chain of command found out they made his life miserable. One day the General will have to answer for his actions. until then please don’t take matters into our own hands.

As for the ones attacking the life style of Camp Taji GET A LIFE, we are at WAR. The soldiers stationed at Camp Taji didn’t ask to be placed there. And no, I will not answer if my husband is there, it is non of your business.

By Amy Price

August 13, 2005 09:58 PM | Link to this

I want to say thank you for all the reporting we get from the AJC. I just want to say to SPC. Joseph Price—you are the BEST!!! You always go above and beyond no matter how small or big your job may be. My love goes to you and all of the 48th. I just wanted to tell the world how proud of you I am. No matter how rough the road God will never leave you. He is always there. All of us (you know who we are) will always be here, too. I feel that my spirit is with you, and I feel you beside me. In everything I say or do, you are here. Don’t ever forget that and stay strong. Godspeed. I love you forever and always. Amy

By 48th BDE soldier

August 13, 2005 11:03 PM | Link to this

I’m stationed here at FOB St. Michael and yes, life sucks here. But I’m sure life sucks up at Taji, Liberty, and I know from experience that Striker sucks as well. It’s bad here, but we have food and water and a relatively safe place to rest our head. You take what you are handed and move on. Having amenities is nice and all, but the only thing we really need over here is the support from our loved ones. Just to know that you care for us and will be there when we come home is all we need to keep going. That’s pretty much all we care about, is just coming home to you (not having tv’s or two-man trailers). Thanks for all the love and support guys!

By Beverly

August 14, 2005 02:45 AM | Link to this

Dearest 48th BDE soldier, you sound so much like my son. He is stationed at FOB Row. He also says that having all the amenities like the other camps would be nice, but he is making it fine without all that. I guess those of us back home just need to accept what you all have accepted and stop trying to fix an un-fixable situation. I believe I am finally getting it. “Soldier” is not what you do…it’s who you are. and soldiers like you and my son actually ARE the “elite” and “privileged”, because you find an even greater reward at the end when you’ve done your job, and you know that you did it in the worst of conditions. I’m so proud of my son and proud of every soldier who has ever fought on foreign soil. Cory, your family does support you and will be here for you when it’s all over. In the mean time, just let us know what you need from us…we’ll see you get it. OK?

By jsc3

August 14, 2005 09:27 AM | Link to this

I get email from a close friend who is in the 48th in Iraq right now. I don’t know the name of the camp, but he told me he was guarding some headquarters that was particularly opulent, having been one of the presidential palaces. He told me that he had not sent email because it was four miles on foot to the nearest Internet cafe he could send and receive email. He also mentioned that though the duty was easy, he preferred going back to Striker and doing the normal patrols, and it makes the time pass quicker. Like so many, he has left a wife and four children behind, as well as many friends. I can honestly say that knowing him, I am sure the USA has sent many of its best and brightest to this conflict. I support him and the rest of the troops, and I hope they accomplish their mission and return safely home.

By Lisa

August 14, 2005 10:26 AM | Link to this

Hi, I just had to do this again. No, we are not 40,50, or 60. Yes we are in 2005. I am the mother of my M.P. son Michael and he grew up in a very secure home. When we were attacted in N.Y. he told me he felt violated to the core of his being. He was a angry man. As we all should be. He found a way to make sure their dying in N.Y. was not un revenged. He joined the 48th and went to Iraq. As a VOLUNTEER! He choose to be there. he chose to be a soldier. I hated for him to go , only a mother can understand how much. I spent time on my knees praying he will come home in one piece. Mentally and physically. I am very proud of him that he had the nerve and gumption to do this. He knew what awaited him there. No, he did not know exactly, and the 11 deaths of ‘his’ buddies came as a wrenching sadness and horror. He was there you have to understand. All three times! He could not even talk, that is how sad and sorry he felt for them. He will be very glad to come home, as will I, and his wife and daughters. He did not feel that he should stay away. I am sure that he feels he is glad those guy’s at camp Taji have it a little better then him at Striker.

By Proud Soldier's Wife

August 14, 2005 04:36 PM | Link to this

When I first saw this article hit the website, something told me it would be controversy just like the one about Striker.

As the 48th BDE soldier said.. no matter where they are, all of these soldiers are in danger in one way or the other. Inside or outside of the wire they face dangers everyday. Maybe they do have it a little easier at Taji when they are there, maybe they don’t. But as Beverly and Lisa said, they all volunteered to go because that’s just the kind of men and women they are, that’s why they are apart of such an “elite” group.

I’m proud of all of soldiers for stepping up to the plate to defend everyone’s right to say what they want on this blog, but it’s been pretty evident in the last few weeks that our soldiers do read this blog and as the 48th BDE soldier said, all they really want is all of us at home to support them there.

By the way.. my soldier isn’t at Taji.

To all of the 48th BDE, we are right here supporting you and loving you. HOOAH!!!!!!!!!!

By proud cpt's wife

August 14, 2005 04:39 PM | Link to this

My husband is located at Camp Taji and was interviewed by this reporter this weekend. She, along with her photographer, rode with them through a few villages. I wonder if she will tell eveyone about the little boy that ran in front of the humvee, getting it to stop. My husband stepped out and the little boy handed him 3 roses; they were for him, just to thank him. Will she tell about the little girl, Sara, needing a cornea transplant? My husband is working diligently to make this transplant happen. Those two are just a “drop in the bucket” for all the good things being done. When I send care packages, he always ask for things to give to the children…not asking for things for himself. His latest request is for 2 pediatric wheelchairs for 2 children that are unable to walk, and the parents have to carry them. We are at war, but there are Iraqi people that want help from the soldiers; they want a better life. I wish my husband could come home tomorrow, but I know that all of the lost lives of other soldiers would be in vain if they come home too soon. I pray each day for his safe return. I am so very proud of you CPT Richard Alan Hicks, I love you more and more each day and I CANNOT wait for the day that you get off that plane for good!!! Your very proud wife, Tina

By Three War Veteran

August 14, 2005 04:45 PM | Link to this

Seeds have been planted on this site. And you who love and miss your loved one are being subjected to the ploys of an ennemy agent working his skills amoung you,such as: Create rummors. Create an enviroment of envy. Make complaints about the leaders of our armed forces. Sow dissatifaction among the American populace. Create an era of distrust between Reserves, National Guardsmen and Regulars. This is what is being done here on the home front because the enemy is unable to destroy or damage the spirit of our fighting men and women.

So please give our front line toops peace of mind and not show our ignorance of combat conditions in comments that our troops will read and be distracted from their mission of fighting a war. God Bless and protect An Old Soldier.

By ARMY MOM

August 14, 2005 05:02 PM | Link to this

IN REGARDS TO THE 48TH BRIGADE SOLDIER —ALL OF THE 48TH BRIGADE HAS MY SUPPORT AS WELL AS MY PRAYERS. GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU”OUR BRAVE HEROES” I BELEIVE THE MAJORITY SUPPORT OUR TROOPS. BUT ARE TIRED OF THE “loss of lives”…. WE LOVE EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU..GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU SAFE—-

By Nancy

August 14, 2005 05:29 PM | Link to this

I have just read the posted commments on the article about Camp Taji. My brother is stationed at FOB St Michael and I pray every day for his safety and the safety of the men and women stationed with him. The conditions that he and the others live in should not be argued here. This is a war, they are stationed where they are told to be and are doing a job that they believe in doing. My support and the support of my friends and family are with these brave souls 24/7 no matter where in Iraq they are. I love my brother and take great pride in him defending my freedom, and yours. Remember, these soldiers volunteered for the service, they were not forced to join. I thank God every day that the soldiers in Iraq are there because they feel they have a job to do and will do it well and come home to their families. Just as an aside, those who post on this site should be careful of using last names. This is one of the cautions passed on by my brother in his first e-mail home. God Bless Our Troops and God Bless America. You are my hero, MayJay!!!

By Vampire 17

August 14, 2005 08:20 PM | Link to this

Having been at Taji last year I can tell you that the only reason it is as good as it is now is because my chain of command spent money to improve the place…improvements that we would never see…improvements for the next unit.

Other FOBs may not be as good because commanders refuse to do the work necessary for improvements that their units will never benefit from.

As for the IED jammers, when I was there we generally didn’t talk about how many there were and where they were deployed because the bad guys have the Internet too. It’s called OPSEC look into it. Have some faith folks.

By An Officer's Wife

August 14, 2005 10:43 PM | Link to this

My husband is an officer at one of the less “privileged” FOBs (according to the many posts I’ve read here over the last three months), and it turns my stomach to read comments from family members who complain about the conditions of their loved ones.

This is war, and this is the Army. It’s not supposed to be the Four Seasons. You and your soldier have choices. You can whine and moan or you can accept and deal and make the best of the situation. I would love for my husband to be at Striker with unlimited lobster, crab legs and Baskin Robbins, but he’s not.

Before anyone comments that my officer husband is living the high life while their enlisted soldiers live in the dirt, that isn’t the case, and we both know it.

Yes, the food sucks. My husband doesn’t have a WalMart-sized PX and there’s no swimming pool. Truthfully, this is harder on me than it is on him. He was active duty for six years and understands that being at war means not having all of the creature comforts of home. This is why I send him goodies every week…to bring a smile to his face and help him get through…day by day. Whining and bemoaning the better fortune that other soldiers have does nothing but run down and demean the mission at hand and can only reduce the morale of all of our soldiers, which is tragic. They deserve better from their “supporters.”

Suck it up people, get over yourselves and do what you can to support your soldiers. In life, there will always be others who have “more”. The true test of character is how those who have “less” conduct themselves.

By humberto

August 15, 2005 01:37 AM | Link to this

I too have a son at camp Taji as an infantry soldier detached to 1st armored. I’m sure that Taji is a great camp but my son spends days out in the field on missions and sleeps a few hours before going out again. I’m sure everyone knows these soldiers are doing double duty and nothing is easy no matter where they are stationed. I am proud that my son is serving with these volunteers. I think we should reserve our indignation for the idiot producing the show “Over There” who portrays our military as inept and the terrorist they fight as noble. He shows our soldiers as out of control and hysterical. This producer has never been to Iraq and does not have the slightest idea what our soldiers go through. This is a typical LaLa land backhand slap to our military. Thank God our soldiers are nothing like hollywood likes to believe they are.

By The wife of an "under privledged" Soldier

August 15, 2005 06:23 AM | Link to this

I really have to agree with the wife of an officer. My husband is also out in nowhere land and is surely lacking in the creature comforts the soldiers at the biger bases sure seem to enjoy. While I am happy that their lives are not as miserable as my husband’s, I know that he reads these articles. It seems like these articles do a rather good job of “sticking it to them.” When a soldier in the same area reads how others are living much better and enjoying a toliet that flushes and a shower everyday it really puts a damper on the morale of those in the “field” for good. Please quit complaining about how your soldier lives and be thankful he has it so good. There are others that would be thankful to have the things your son has. And Moni, maybe you could find some other topics to dwell on and report about. I know the soldiers less fortunate would appreciate it.

By A proud soldier's wife

August 15, 2005 08:13 AM | Link to this

To the wife of the underprivileged soldier:

Very Well Said!!!!!!!!! HOOAH

By An SPC's Wife

August 15, 2005 09:27 AM | Link to this

When I speak out against the way things are done with our guys its because THEY have asked me to. They feel their hands and tied and are afraid to say too much because they fear retribution. I DO support our guys, all of them because God knows, they need it, they are in hell. When guys at different camps bring the same complaints and ask me to continue to speak out on their behalf, I cannot ignore their pleas. What I say is not meant to cause a rift between anyone, it is said and meant in support of the soldiers who have asked for and need our help. They cannot call their congressmen or representatives or governor without consequences. When they ask me to do it on their behalf, I do and will continue to do so. I am only one voice but, I cannot, in good conscience, ignore their requests for help.

By An SPC's Wife

August 15, 2005 10:02 AM | Link to this

oops, sorry for got the 611 on my email address.

By A GEORGIA WIFE WHO LOVES HER SOLDIER

August 15, 2005 11:49 AM | Link to this

ALL THIS COMPLAINING ABOUT BASES SEEMS SO PETTY WHEN WE TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE SOLDIERS THAT WERE AFFECTED BY THE FIRE ON MICHAEL. SOME HAVE NOT EVEN RECIEVED NEW CLOTHING OR EQUIPMENT YET. AND INSURANCE MONEY WHAT INSURANCE MONEY? THAT TOO IS A JOKE. TRY TELLING YOUR SDOLDIER THE PERSONAL ITEMS ARE “IN THE MAIL” BECAUSE THE ARMY IS TOO SORRY TO PROVIDE ANY THING FOR OUR GUYS. SO STOP WHINING AND CRYING ALL OF YOU! THERE ARE MORE IMPORTANT THINGS TO WORRY ABOUT.

By Beverly

August 15, 2005 12:08 PM | Link to this

Dear AN OFFICER’S WIFE and other’s, You still don’t get it. These comments about the deplorable conditions at the smaller fobs on the front are not a personal attack on your soldiers. And the deplorable conditions we’re debating about are not because there’s a “war going on”! It is simply due to a LOW PRIORTY! Why are you taking it so personally? And why is it ok for you to attack those who are trying to fight for better conditions for their loved ones? If you truly do support all of our troops there, then why are you not fighting for them too. This debate has nothing to do with the “War”. It has to do with…those who HAVE telling those who HAVE-NOT to stop whinning and be happy for what you do have. How un-american is that!? Our very nature dictates that we always encourage others to strive for better! Isn’t that one reason we are in Iraq!? Let’s look back at the commenter’s who have been critical of those who want better for their loved ones. They are an Officer’s Wife and people who don’t have their loved ones at the most deplorable fobs. I respect the fact that all our soldiers are in terrible conditions. I also understand that our soldier’s volunteered for service. My son not only volunteered for service, but also volunteered to go to Iraq. That has nothing to do with the conditions at Joe, Row or the other remote fobs. AN ASC’s WIFE is right. Those of us who have spoken out have done so IN SUPPORT of our loved ones! We’re not trying to over-throw the Government! Undermine the military Strategists! Or insult YOUR soldiers! We’ve just asked for our soldiers to be considered. When better can be done…we need to do better! Being the voice of those who can’t…or won’t speak is a good thing. So continue to speak out AN SPC’S WIFE. Fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. It’s the American way.

By jds

August 15, 2005 12:33 PM | Link to this

YEA, more important things?…like YOUR husband!??

By jds

August 15, 2005 12:34 PM | Link to this

SOME PEOPLE DON”T GET IT AND NEVER WILL!

By SPC's Wife

August 15, 2005 12:59 PM | Link to this

To a Georgia Wife Who Loves Her Soldier - I am right there with you. My husband also lived and worked in that building. To this day, I do not really know how much he lost because he doesn’t want to talk about it. FYI, a soldier home on leave said he got his laptop, which was really nice, at Wal-Mart for around $500.00. I know I couldn’t replace something that big right now but, maybe that will help someone. Perhaps it is time to press the issue of getting the men reimbursed for what they lost - athough, pictures of home and family are priceless in a place like that.
To all those families struggling to make it through this deployment, stay strong for your soldier AND yourself! Hooah

By ARMYMAN

August 15, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this

This is in response to a post by Desaree. I cannot believe you think the Army puts NG soldiers in tents and crap camps and that they put the AD guys in luxurious bases. My brother-in-law is in a new base at Rawah.(He is AD). They don’t have electricity(It’s all from generators). They don’t have toilets.(They have latrines). I went to Bosnia with the 48th(I was AD stationed at Hunter Army Airfield). I am now in the NG in MS. It seems like everyone has it better when in reality life in the Army SUCKS, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Anthony Thomson from Atlanta and all of the 48th, stay safe and remember you really are APPRECIATED.

By Scott McAfee

August 15, 2005 04:03 PM | Link to this

My son is billeted at one of the unimproved FOBs. He has not complained about conditions. My older son was in Afghanistan and the initial invasion of Iraq. One is an officer the other is an enlisted man. The “Old Soldier” is right, lets not have this AJC forum turned into a circus of complaints and dissension. All of our loved ones are in harms way. They need support not petty carps. The ribbons I see on cars say SUPPORT OUR TROOPS not SUPPORT OUR ENEMIES. Knock it off.

By Concerned Dad

By Ruth

August 15, 2005 04:51 PM | Link to this

My soldier is at one of the FOBs. I would like to think that if he were at Taji or one of the other more comfortable bases, I would have enough compassion to speak out for the soldiers at the primitive FOB’s. As another commenter said, it’s not what your soldier has, it’s what our soldiers don’t have. Envy, maybe. If the conditions were reversed you probably wouldn’t think it was so great either. It’s upsetting to read of the dazzling array of good food to eat at Taji when my soldier tells of how much weight he’s lost because of the poor quality of food offered at the FOBs. I would just like to see things get a little more equal, believe me these guys don’t have to read it in the blog to know which bases are the best and which are the worst. It’s for sure my soldier won’t be reading this blog, he’s too busy patrolling 16-18 hours a day. You might call this whining, I call it love and concern. I want all the troops to have what they need.

By ARMY MOM

August 15, 2005 09:16 PM | Link to this

Excuse me—The last Article was dated aug 12th—Today is Aug 15th—-It would be nice to have information on a more frequent basis—My son is in Iraq,In a war zone..Isn’t it your job to supply up to date information—In three days alot has happened ,so where’s your story???? I’m a mom on pins and needles waiting for information—Can you supply it on a daily basis??? “WORRIED MOM”

By Desaree

August 15, 2005 09:39 PM | Link to this

To Everyone who is condemning me for speaking on behalf of my Soldier: I don’t really care that all of you have your harsh words against my opionion on this matter. I know in my heart I am only speaking out of love for the man I married 9 years ago. I have more respect and admiration for the spirit and heart of all of these soldiers then any of you could possibly know. And for me to express how I think some things aren’t fair, things I think could be fixed, is really my right as an American. And Just so the Army guy who personally wrote to me, I was in the Army for 9 1/2 years, so I have every right in the world to speak my opinion what ever I may choose to speak about. I cry every time I think of the families who lost their loved ones over there, and not just the 48th, All of the Lost lives, because I know it will not be in vain, they are the chosen ones. God Bless all the troops and come home soon.

By Lilstingray

August 15, 2005 11:32 PM | Link to this

Dear Husbands, wives, mothers and fathers, I am sure every one would love their family members to have all the creature comforts we feel they deserve. I am no military expert, but let me throw out an idea for you to consider, FOBs are not meant to be there forever. I have the love of my life (a NG member) there at FOB MIC and I know for a fact he could care less that he does mot have all of the creature comforts of home. What is important to him is that he himself and all the men serving with him get home to their loved ones in one piece, safe and sound. He also cares that his loved ones at home are doing fine. My family and I sends him what he needs and make sure he has the ability to get what he feels he needs, we also make sure there is enough to share. I am sure my husband is like your loved ones in the fact what he wants most of all is to do his job with our love and support, help the Iraqi children who have worse than you can imagine, and to come home. All the comforts are not the same as being home. Like all of our love ones (our heroes both NG and AD) that left everything and I mean everything to include their comforts of home to protect us. They could careless of the differences between the Camps or FOBs. What they care about is us here at home and each other. They are the ones that have the intestinal fortitude to do what has to be done instead of talking about what has to be done. Just support, love and pray for each and every one of them.

By Spc.Mays

August 16, 2005 12:12 AM | Link to this

Well I am a soldier stationed at Michale and yes it sucks there. We have everything we need though and that is all you can ask for I guess. The best thing for all of you is to just quit arguing about conditions and support your troops for doing what they signed up to do. Of course it would be nice to have all the amenities of the Taji guys but if we all had it nice it would not be a war zone.

By Jenni Wilson

August 16, 2005 01:37 AM | Link to this

My husband doesn’t have it as well as these guys, but I can tell you what he DOES have. He has his life, he has his family, he has his friends….and we all have him. This is what is important. I think that those complaining are being quite selfish. You think about all the things your soldier doesn’t have compared to others, please count the blessing for what he or she does have. I thank God everyday that I can talk to my husband, because it is a gift. Before you start complaining next time, stop and think, do you really have it THAT bad, or does your soldier? Ask someone who has lost their soldier. I bet they would give anything to have their soldiers sleep in a foxhole every single night, if that meant just seeing them one more time! Ask someone who fought in Vietnam, I bet they’ll tell you these soldiers have it so much better than they could have dreamed of…every last one of our soldiers. We are all lucky to have phones and computers now. Instead of worrying about anyone who has more than my soldier, or yours, it is best to think about what each soldier does have…and we should be counting our blessings for it each and everyday. Instead of worrying about what everyone has, start thanking the Lord for what you (and your soldier) do have, because if it wasn’t for him, you (and your soldier) wouldn’t have any of it!

48th Bge soldiers, you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday, think positive, and keep God close…he’s the best friend to get you through this. God bless!

By iris wolff

August 16, 2005 02:40 AM | Link to this

i was so excited to see some news from camp taji and then i read the comments and my heart sank .yes my husband is at Taji and that is why i wanted to see it but , its not the life everyone is making it out to be. yes they have a pool but they never get to enjoy it because they are fighting a war just like everyone else. and yes they have a px an empty one because the trucks are getting blown up or robbed. most of these comments are uncalled for ,we are all one family and we are all in this together . we need to focus on keeping our men and women in the highest of spirits and show our support so they can focus on their mission .the comments didn’t bother me because i know the truth about life at camp taji.i am just upset that some soldiers will see all this anger . my soldier won’t see it,so my concern is not for him.my concern is the morale of the soldiers that do see it. and not because they aren’t at the camp with the pool but because they see all the anger of those at home.lets try to forget about the dont haves and the do haves and focus on supporting our soldiers ,there mission and their leaders. our soldiers are fighting a war and we are fighting the blog war.

By Chief

August 16, 2005 07:44 AM | Link to this

…this Thursday at 1 PM is set as the time for a moment of silence to honor and remember our troops in Iraq. This is statewide in Georgia and I hope readers all across America will join us. Since the governor set this time, we have lost at least 3 more of our loved ones. May God comfort their families and may all of us remember their sacrifices and pray that we complete our mission there soon.

By Em

August 16, 2005 09:48 AM | Link to this

I AM SHOCKED! I JUST READ THAT ANOTHER SOLDIER FROM 48TH DIED AND IT WAS IN THE SECTION OF OTHER WAR NEWS!!!! WHAT IS GOING ON WITH REPORTING - I UNDERSTAND IF THEY ARE UNDER LOCK DOWN BUT IF NOT WHY AM I READING IT FROM SAEED AHMED IN ATLANTA!

THANK YOU SAEED FOR UPDATING US!

By jds

August 16, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this

Well said RUTH! You get it!

By CPL. Loving Wife

August 16, 2005 08:39 PM | Link to this

I just want to say that I can’t believe how everyone is moaning about who has what and what is better . Lets get down to it this is a war and although my husband is at Camp Taji well great because the risk for him of getting injured and/or dying is as great as a soldier at any other camp. He has to carry a gun to go to the bathroom. he basically is living still in the dust because he and all the other men there are out for many days with out a toliet or shower or A/C. Also the last time I checked the mortor rounds or the IEDS or the gunfire didn’t care if he is living in a petter camp then anyone else. I don’t wwake up thinking wow I feel ok he is there because wow he has a big PX or wow he has a A/C room. Grow up everyone life isn’t perfect DUH!!!!!

To the MD guys God Bless you and we are so proud of you ! Be Safe and we Will see you soon!!! I love you Baby!!!

By SPC V's wife

August 16, 2005 10:42 PM | Link to this

My husband is stationed at cmp taji and all of you who think that all the soldiers over there have it easy you are wrong. my husband has went days without sleep cause of the over load of missions. yes he may the benefits of a hot shower and other things in that nature. but my husband is fighting the war like all the others. so give it a rest a soldier is a soldier and they chose to go into this they want to defend this country no matter if they have to live in tents or trailers. i am very proud to be a soldiers wife and no matter what his living conditions are i will continue to support him all the others in his unit. so all of these people who are getting upset about what their soldier is living in give it up, and just pray with all you have that they come home in one piece. cause no matter how they live over there they are still at risk in every way possible.

By Lisa

August 18, 2005 07:59 PM | Link to this

After talking to one of the moms of another soldier tonight, she had asked me if I had ever checked the comments that were written after the stories, in which I had replied no. Then she told me to check them out after the story on Camp Taji. I started to then had to literally skim down because I was so frustrated. What is wrong with you people, you are complaining because someone else has it better. Which soldier really is happy anywhere that they are. They are in Iraq for the love of God and all of them deep inside would rather be home no matter what the accommendations are. Are you all so angry that they are there that you would deprive even one soldier of having it possible better then another? My son and his unit are stationed at Camp Taji we are attached to the 48th brigade. We don’t complain when we read more about GA men - we are all just happy to get a glimpse of what any of them are going through. Can we all please just remember the only thing that matters in the end is that our soldiers make it home safely to us. I pray for all of our soldiers daily and I will continue till the last one comes home. To my son AJ you are my pride and joy and my life and home and all of RI isn’t the same till you all come home.

Love ya buddy

By jds

August 19, 2005 11:57 AM | Link to this

You STILL don’t get it! The comments concerning the deplorable conditions at the smaller front line fobs is NOT…I repeat..NOT about what your soldiers HAS! It’s about what COULD BE DONE…BUT ISN’T!…FOR OUR LOVED ONES! How dare you imply that we are not in support of our soldiers! Or that we don’t realize they are at war. Your soldiers may not have as much time to enjoy the amenities there as they would like, but they at least HAVE THEM! They have food, showers, and a place to go to the bathroom. And they evidently have down-time from what we read! ALL WE HAVE ASKED FOR ARE THE BASIC NECESSITIES! DECENT FOOD, WATER, and TIME FOR THEM TO SLEEP SO THEY CAN BE ALERT ENOUGH NOT TO BE KILLED! IT’S NOT YOUR SOLDIERS WHO ARE DOING WITHOUT! You are the ones who should be ashamed of yourselves! You are all showing just how much you REALLY support OUR TROOPS! Some military “FAMILY”! A family sticks together and and wants the very best FOR ALL MEMBERS! It’s bad enough that we have to fight the military Leadership for what is needed. But it disgusts me to see how all of you look down your noses and critize us for asking that our loved one’s be better cared for! AND AJC, You print all of their remarks critizing us. WHERE ARE OUR COMMENTS? I know of three people plus myself, who have written but have not seen our comments published!? DO OUR LOVED ONE’S COUNT OR NOT!?

By CLP.Allen Brown

August 20, 2005 02:04 PM | Link to this

Well first of all I would like to say is,.THANK YOU, to all of you that can find it in your heart to suport us,not vent on what YOU think is the right conditions for us. See no matter what your soldiers are telling you they know that thier living conditions are not as bad as they try to make you believe. We all have lived in tents with just 12 inches between the cots and we have all ate MREs and even went without food and water,But we all have also enjoyed the ac and goodfood,with plenty of water. We are soldiers and we expect every type of living enviorment possable and those of us that have been doing this for most of our lives know this,and we don’t complain about it,SO WHY ARE YOU? You know to tell you the truth, we don’t worry about all that stuff all we want is to compleat our mission and come home to all of you.Can’t you understand??? It really don’t matter where we are stationed,we all have the same mission and want the same thing out of this. So I ask this of you,,Please don’t worry about who has what and where we are sleepping when we get a chance,Just think about that big day that we all come home,and how much we want all of you to meet us when we get off that plain with tears of joy not tears of envy or anger we have seen enouph of that for the past 8 months and will have to see it for the next 8 months. We are all proud of what we are doing, Why can’t you be? Thank you for your time, CPL.Allen Brown Proud to be an Soldier in the 48th/SVC Btty 1/118 FA Brunswick Ga.

By Ruth

August 20, 2005 10:16 PM | Link to this

You go jds! The troops at Michael, Joe and Row were told they would be rotated out after a few months. Soon 3 months will have passed. I wonder who will take their place. Those of you who think we are just whiners because we are advocating for our soldiers to have the basic necessities may find yourself in our shoes then. And yes, you better believe I am angry. I get angrier every day. I am not angry about what your soldiers have, that is wonderful. I am angry because everybody is turning their backs on the troops at these remote bases. Why aren’t all of you speaking out in support of trying to supply what they need?

By hcp

August 21, 2005 01:19 AM | Link to this

CLP. Brown, Whoa Buddy! You aren’t talking about a bunch of weekend warriors here! You’re insulting a dang good bunch of soldiers that have been in the trenches and had boots on the ground way before this. It’s not to these soldier’s discredit to want better living conditions when it’s out there! Now you can disagree about how bad it is at the outer fobs but don’t try to sell that “we’re all equal” shinola to those that know better. Whether anything changes or not they’re in it and they’ll get’er done! But like some said, if better can be done for these guys, then it should be. We all realize joe and roe and the smaller fobs where meant to be temporary, but in actuality they’ve been in operation for several years now. And it don’t look like their going to be shutting them down any time soon. So I agree, it’s time to get behind our boys! Let’s upgrade those remote fobs. Whining or not I hope people will care enough to speak up. We can do better. War time or not, what soldier does not deserve the very best America has to offer? Let’s do it! Ret. & Out

By james

August 21, 2005 05:08 PM | Link to this

ive been deployed to afghanistan two times and i slept in a tent both times life is what you make of it. there is always some unit that has something better than the next unit. but that doesnt mean the unit that has it better has it better. afghan temp was an average temp in the summer was about 103-107 now if we ponder the weather in iraq 120-125 thats in the shade were not talking about the flight line were it can range from 130-145 and were the chain of command makes you wear full battle rattle make the temp a little bit hotter. just picture yourself walking in the sauna and staying in there and working in there for your 12hr shift or longer and then you get off to go home to sleep in that nice airconditioned box it is comforting. that is when it work’s!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so lets not get mad about who might have it better lets worry about when we get to go home. because im taji bound here shortly but this will my 4th deployment were my 1st deployment when i went to iraq during the persian gulf era when the uss stark got lit up but thats another story keep the faith.

By SGT. Angwin

August 21, 2005 05:44 PM | Link to this

I just wanted to comment on the posting of “mad army sergeants wife”

Anyone who might wind up in taji may have it a little better then some. What difference will a PX and gym really make. WE ARE STILL IN iraq!!! The few extra things we have in taji won’t make a difference. We are still away from our families too. So stop hating on soldiers who “have it a little better.” Thanks

By Ruth

August 21, 2005 10:43 PM | Link to this

To Cpl Allen Brown I must respectfully disagree with you. I refer you to the AJC blog entry dated Aug. 17th Most Popular Event at Camp Taji - Soldiers in Different Kind of Fight. There are two comments in particular that I find quite interesting, one from “roe soldier” dated Aug 19th and one from “another camp roe soldier” dated Aug. 20th. They don’t seem to be too satisfied. Have you ever been to roe or joe? I believe that conditions are worse there than the soldiers are telling us, not better. By the way, we would never meet the plane with anger and envy towards those at other bases. We want safety and equality for everyone in the 48th.

By Chuck Berry

August 22, 2005 02:07 AM | Link to this

I was stationed at Taji last year, not as a soldier but, yes, as a highly overpaid contractor. The reason taji has a better infrastructure than many other bases is twofold: an original high level of infrastructure (as it was one of Sadam’s largest bases) and the sheer number of us soldiers currently stationed there.

first, taji came pre-loaded with a lot of basic infrastructure. many office buildings, command posts, and MWR-usable structures. it’s right on the tigris, so setting up a water treatment plant was fairly simple. also, it’s only 12 miles north of downtown baghdad, right on a major highway, allowing easy access to transport trucks from the green zone.

secondly, taji is the main distribution point for much of the infrastructure moving into the country. it is fast becoming the main distribution hub for the entire baghdad area… with this level of staffing, you MUST incorporate some modicum of MWR facilities, including internet (there’s an hour wait and it is unavailable when a stationed personnel is killed), quality dining facilities … and a usable PX (it’s also used by most of the transient personnel to get the things they need).

to sum it up, taji is a nice place to stay, but not move to. there are still mortars on a continuous basis. yes, you are in danger. no, ou don’t have to wear body armor at all times. yes, it’s safer than driving in a convoy or walking the streets of baghdad or rhamadi. but most of the personnel at taji do pull off-base duty, either in convoys or in ‘peacekeeping’ patrols.

i truly do wish all of the friends i made over there the best, and hope everyone returns home safe.

By 1LT Allen Hill

August 22, 2005 04:47 AM | Link to this

I feel your pain, but at least it is not raining. We arrived in Yusafiyah during the last third of the rainy season and you think it is miserable now? Wait until that “moon” dust turns to a slush. Some are always more fortunate than others, all you can do is adapt and constantly make strides to improve your quality of life. Soldiers are keen at doing that. But its a war and we have to make sacrifices to it. Things could be worse, you could be in the Iraqi Army. AVALANCHE!

By CPL.Brown

August 22, 2005 05:09 PM | Link to this

I just want to sat this,I an sorry that you feel that I insulted anyone, But just to let you know this, This is not my first go round. and my boots have been in the same trenches as the rest I done my time as full time active duty also. All I’m trying to say is that us that are here and fighting the fight don’t worry about what the others have. I like the comments that was made about the temps. Thank you, you made a real good point. Those of you that got upset at what I said,I’m very sorry, But I am here in it and live it. And that’s why we are here fighting for all of you to be able think and say what you feel,,Keep it up,,I respect what you believe. And I have been at Striker,Annaconda, Liberty and Doeha. And I put my boots under the same cots they do. A wonderful bunch of guys. Sorry if I affended any of the readders, just thought that I would tell you the way I see it by living in it.

By Michelle B

August 23, 2005 06:34 PM | Link to this

My guy was at Michael, and now he’s at Taji. When he was at Michael, I got to talk to him quite frequently, and now we go for weeks at a time with no contact. The point, different places are just DIFFERENT. There are certain advantages and disadvantages to anywhere. Certainly everything else about Michael was super sucky. I was upset that he couldn’t get the simple small things he needed for himself, or how backward it seemed in relation to Taji, so there you go. I heard the best part of Taji is the food, haha. But now that he’s been both places, which is really better? He’s not HERE. I agree that there is much more we can do to make things easier for our people in Iraq. We should do what we can always. And anyone that wants to get upset with the loved ones of these soldiers that are bothered by crappy conditions by telling them to “support the troops” is silly. Come on now, how can comments and actions directly suggesting improvements in the daily lives of the soldiers be anything but support for the troops? I mean really??? So quit it with that. And also, I don’t know about you guys, but I take everything that happens to my soldier personally, and I don’t appreciate it when a man or woman who volunteers their life for us gets jerked around so much, the amenities being the least of it. I know we all agree that we want the best for all of our soldiers— WHICH IS TO COME HOME SAFELY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. That’s just my two cents. It’s odd to me when people start arguing about how to go about supporting the troops. We all agree that they need supportin’ but who’s go the best way? hahaha, I DO!! I CAN’T WAIT UNTIL WE BRING THEM HOME!!!

By Jenni Wilson

August 23, 2005 10:54 PM | Link to this

CPL Brown, thanks for your comments. I think they are well said. I think you are right, I took nothing the way that some have commented back. I see you as trying to be a peacemaker, and make everyone see that everyone is doing okay, and that its quite frustrating to see others (not serving in Iraq if I may add) venting about stuff that doesnt matter…all that matters is that they come home safe. At least that’s MY and MY HUSBANDS ultimate goal!

I wish that everyone would stop and read what they’ve wrote. Really reflect on it. Venting on here and saying things that others may get upset about, is not going to change the fact that your soldier is in a place “not as good”.

Do you think that the people who decide where to put our soldiers actually go to ajc.com and think..hmmm…well, they’re upset, so lets change everything? I really am not trying to sound harsh, but really..the military doesn’t care what you or I think. I mean no disrespect to the military, but it’s the truth. They aren’t going to change things because someone complains on here. When our soldiers signed up for the military they knew what could happen…and EVERY SINGLE ONE has it a LOT better off than it could be. Who cares if our guys have it equal? I don’t! My husbands old unit has it a TON “better” than he does, but it’s okay..you know why? Because I know he’s okay every time I get to talk to him, that’s all that TRULY matters.

To be truthful, I mean no disrespect, many comments remind me of when I was about 6 and my friends would get mad, because one would have a cooler Barbie accessory. I am not trying to minimize your issues, or poke fun…but it sounds really immature. Instead of focusing on how equal it should be, focus on how the Lord is using your soldier in some way, and has him or her at that specific camp for some reason. It may save their life to be at one camp opposed to another. There is a reason for everything. I pray the Lord puts it in all of your hearts to come to peace with this and realize that it doesn’t matter how “equal” everyone is, as long as they come home. …And just so everyone knows, my husband is not at a “great” camp, like Liberty..or like that. And he is not “high” up, So..I do have room to say what I am…because my hubby is in the same place or an “equal” place to many of your soldiers, I am sure.

Please stop and think before you write another comment that is mean or can be taken negatively. We already have plenty of negativity in our lives right now, can’t we just support one another on this site?

By Ruth 1

August 24, 2005 11:40 AM | Link to this

This is for Jenni. I do read and re-read my comments before I send them. When I post a comment it comes from my heart. To say that we are acting like 6 year olds IS minimizing and poking fun at us. I’m sure I speak for many others who are practicing our right of free speech, wanting to make it known that some of the guard and reserves do not have what is necessary. Once again I will say that there is a link on the left side of the screen of this blog page “Send best wishes to guard unit, families” that is where there should be nothing but words of support. The comments here are in response to whatever article appears above them. I will continue to speak out for the guys at the primitive bases, even if my soldier and his company move to another base at some point. Do you think we should just shut up? Do you realize that if the soldier from the 278th had just accepted the fact that he was having to dig in the garbage for scrap metal to armor his vehicle and kept quiet our soldiers still would be hunting in garbage dumps also? But no, he spoke up and soon every news outlet and nearly every person in the USA knew that our troops were being sent out on patrol in substandard vehicles. Speaking out is my way of support, and that’s what my soldier would want me to do. We all live in the United States, land of the free, where we are free to voice our opinions and that means I can say what I want and you can say what you want so please don’t try to stifle my freedom of speech because you don’t agree with me.

By WHINER

August 24, 2005 03:22 PM | Link to this

RUTH 1 You must have a soldier at joe or roe because those of us who do, are the only’s who get it at all. You are exactly right on it! Michaels is a step up from the smaller desolate fobs that our loved ones are at. I never knew how blind and self-centered some people could be. It has really surprised me at the blatant CASTE mentality they have shown here. The fact that they even think we are complaining about their solider’s amenities or that are angry at them shows a total ignorance about what our guys are enduring. And if ANYBODY thinks we’re gonna shut up and just be happy they are alive, well it ain’t gonna happen! Because if we don’t keep fighting for them we could be waiting for a casket next. They can’t continue in the conditions they are in, mentally or physically without something bad happening. How many 26 hrs. on…and 1 hr. off…shifts can a human endure before they become an exhausted danger to themselves and others. I don’t care about your little amenities! The truth is, nobody wants us to make waves because they don’t want anything changed. As bad as they think their solider’s have it, they would still rather be where they are than at joe or roe! That’s a fact. So it would be a lot better for us to shut up and let things ride. Well, It’s ain’t gonna happen! Ruth you keep writing letter’s, calling, and asking questions! We deserve some answers and some action. And those of you who don’t get it by now…you never will. I just hope you are really proud of yourselves and that you sleep well at night. I know my husband for one apprerciates how much SUPPORT you’ve shown him and his buddies! Thanks for nothing.

By Jenni Wilson

August 24, 2005 11:47 PM | Link to this

Ruth in response to what you wrote, you do have a freedom of speech, and I respect that. If it’s your way to support them, that’s fine…I get that. All I am saying is that it seems like everyone is getting upset because one guy has it better than another or that they don’t have good enough living conditions, when as far as I know…they all have what they “need” to survive. ..This is from what I have been told by others, what I have read up on, but I am not there, so I don’t REALLY know…

I just wish that it wouldn’t bother everyone so much because we can’t change it…I wish everyone would focus on the fact that we need them home safe, and I think (I hope) that we’d all agree that we’d much rather our loved ones have money spent on armor and stuff like that to keep them safe, opposed to spending money on camp extras…just to make them feel more at home. I guess I was just hoping that making comments from the standpoint of someone who had a hubby get called up as a total shocker, after be in the Guard, after being inactive for over two years, with him not being in a high position, or a nice place…that it would make others see that as long as they’re getting to eat and drink, and as long as their healthy, that’s all that really matters (at least to me).

As I said, I was not meaning to poke fun or minimize how you feel at all. If you feel that way, I am sorry to hear it, that’s why I clearly stated that I was not doing making fun or miniziming and it just seems immature. I don’t know…I am pretty young…I just know that I am young in my marriage..and I know that all that matters to me is that my soldier comes home in one piece, unharmed…along with all the other soldiers.

I didn’t mean to hurt anyones feelings, if I did I am truly sorry. I just want everyone to get along…and just try not to worry so much about the “extras”. I know it would be really nice if they all had extras, but they don’t. And I understand if you feel speaking out can help, I guess I just wish it wasn’t at the expense of hurting someone else’s feelings, as I can tell it has done to some.

Ruth, I don’t want to argue with you, and I wish that your soldier had the same living conditions as you want him to, I hope that it happens..and I hope they are all equal one day..but until then, I choose to be grateful for what mine does have..and so does he. ..and I hope that all of you can also be grateful for what they do have also.

I hope each of you have a blessed day :-)

For everyone else, I do mean it, I am sorry if I have offended you or if you feel I have minimized how you feel. It IS important how each person feels, I just guess I hope that everyone realizes that each soldier is there for a purpose, given from higher above, and that everything happens for a reason, and that your soldier is at a camp for a certain reason.

By Michelle B

August 25, 2005 09:29 PM | Link to this

This comment goes to Whiner. First of all- I’m sorry that you are feeling so bad right now. I wish I could change that for you. I feel the same way. I would love to be able to fix their schedules. I am also worried about how much work they’re doing compared to how much sleep they are getting. And I’m so worried about them being on patrol and falling asleep at the wrong time because they are being run so ragged. UG. And trust me, Baby, you are not the only one upset. I know this hurts. It hurts me too. I can’t stand it. I already said, I take everything that happens to my soldier personally. I want to tear people apart sometimes because I feel like nobody really cares about what is going on over there, or what our guys and girls are going through. Sometimes I look at the world around me just going on as usual and I’m thinking- Don’t any of you even CARE about… and you can insert whatever thing of the day to do with the war and the soldiers. I live on the coast in South Carolina, and we’re on the same latitude as Baghdad. So when I go walk on the beach, which is just about daily, I know that when I look out over the ocean, my line of vision runs right through that mess. And I say my “prayers” and I feel the hurt in my chest for a little while for all the horrible things that I couldn’t fix for anybody that day. Sometimes I really feel as if I’m the only one that understands at all. But that just can’t be true. What, I’m THAT cool? Doubt it, and if I’M not, then you aren’t either. We’d be getting tapped for much bigger things. ;)

I don’t think anyone has a problem with what you are upset about. I think the problem is your tone of voice. You’re going off all angry and people tend to want to calm that down. It also seems like you’re implying that you feel this bigger than we do and that’s a pretty crappy thing to do. You don’t want to be told to shut up and neither does anyone else. I felt like some of what you said in your last comment was directed at me, because you made a point with the word “amenities” and made a point that Michael isn’t as crappy as Joe and Roe. So you kind of ticked me off a little bit, and I don’t want to get all over you the way you’re getting all over everyone else, but if you were trying to use my words against me to make your point you failed. So now I have to tell you how you misunderstood. You seem to think we are at cross purposes.

If you keep harping on the word AMENITIES because I used it then you need to read what I wrote again. Dear heart, I DO get it, and I was on your side. My point exactly was that this IS NOT ABOUT AMENITIES IT’S ABOUT HOW OUR LOVED ONES ARE BEING USED.. I also mentioned that the people getting on our cases for being upset about that need to quit throwing “support the troops” at you AND me, because it doesn’t make any sense. I find it to be hurtful actually. WE ARE SUPPORTING OUR SOLDIERS. (and by WE I mean you and me, so settle down. Don’t fight with people on your side.) OH, and I’m sorry that MY soldier being at Michael wasn’t CRAPPY ENOUGH FOR YOU to listen to what I really said. Did you just SKIM? Next time, READ. Shoot, look up the big words if you have to. Ok, I just thought that was funny. Can I get a rim shot there? Ba dum bum?

Anyhow- You may miss the big point here, you’re really ticked and want to fight about it right now. That’s alright too, get it off your chest, but I don’t know what good fighting HERE is going to do. You can yell at ME about this all day but I can’t do ANYTHING for you. I prefer writing and calling my congress people, sending letters to the president, to newspapers, emailing the news… Do you have any useful suggestions on how we can effect this crisis? Yelling at everyone about it isn’t helping. Stop telling us we don’t get it. We all get it. You hand me a petition about it and I’ll sign it. Ask me to make some calls, I will. But yell at me, I won’t listen to a word you say. Your point will be lost in your language.

I mean, you’re snapping out acting like you’re the only person that understands what is going on here, or has a stake in this. What are you, smarter than the rest of us? Of course not. I don’t think you think that either. I have no problem with any of the things you said, as far as your feelings toward what needs to happen for our people in Iraq. I AGREE WITH YOU. I have no problem with you being upset or even really (good language standards do not permit me to use the word I’d like right here) angry by what you perceive to be apathy and misplaced sentiment from those around you. This is hard. I can’t even believe how hard this is. Sometimes I go crazy. I don’t want you to shut up about THE ISSUE. But I’ll be damned if I can take your attitude. I’ve spent too many nights not sleeping, worrying, not eating, crying and otherwise being angry or heartbroken over this and over these conditions and these situations to listen to any more crap from you that implies my ideas, fears, sadness, and SOLDIER aren’t worth as much, or as right as yours, OR THAT I DON’T UNDERSTAND because YOU think you know better. That is, in fact, what I don’t “GET.” You have a right to feel the way you do. Maybe you don’t understand that some of what you said brought feelings in the rest of us too. I mean, look, what you said prompted me to respond.

Now, RELAX. Not about what is bothering you, but with us. You ever been yelled at for something that isn’t your fault? Sucks huh?

That being said, I repeat… Let’s all pray/chant/meditate/do a hooky pooky dance/send the vibe etc etc, to bring all of our soldiers home safely.
OH wait, I better add “AND IMPROVE FOB CONDITIONS” or I don’t understand anything. Guess I figured why bother with hoping their conditions in Iraq are improved when I could go straight to the top and want for them to just get home????

If anyone could possibly go off angry about what I said then, to turn a phrase, they… ahem… “don’t get it and they never will.” luv yinz.

By Michelle B

August 25, 2005 10:00 PM | Link to this

This is a P.S. do you guys want us to say “yes, your soldier has it the worst of them all?” because I thought about that and when I tried to say it in my mind- it didn’t work. Like my soldier has it good? I don’t know if yours has it worse. I haven’t been there. I don’t get to talk to mine that much and when we do talk, he doesn’t say anything about what things are like. He said he’ll tell me when he gets back. I know I had to mail stuff to him. I was so worried about him eating right and getting enough water with all that gear on. And when I think about all the worry that goes into it and the fear, like I mentioned before, and I get mad at you. I am pretty sure that the chances of that “one thing” I don’t even want to talk about happening -actually happening are probably just as good for mine as they are for yours. It makes me want to tell you to sit down and shut up. Because you have your nerve. So maybe that’s where all that is coming from? I mean, I’m not telling you that, but I am irritated with you in that way. just a thought.
OH, and I wanted to mention- I hope you’re not like, complaining to the FRG and calling command and writing to his officers and stuff. That could make things worse for your boy. Seriously.

By Marie

August 26, 2005 09:38 AM | Link to this

BRAVO MICHELLE B. You speak for MANY of us. I agree 100% with everything you said. We are not enemies here…I wish people would quit acting like we are. GOOD FOR YOU MICHELLE !!!

By whiner

August 26, 2005 11:17 AM | Link to this

NIce lecture Mischelle but you evidently think I paid more attention to your comment than I did. You didn’t start the “Amenities War” and you were not the first one to slap us with it. Perhaps you need to go back and do some reading yourself. The first derogatory statements that were made began two months ago and were made towards those of us who asked for our loved ones to be allowed to shower and sleep and be given a decent meal. Everytime we tried to make a point we were called “whiners” and told we were not “supporting our soldier”, and we needed to “just be happy they have it as good as they do”…All of this coming from people who have their soldiers everywhere but at the outer fobs. Michelle if you ‘get it” why are you yelling at ME. Is it because I said that Michaels was “a step up” from row or joe? That’s not a slur, that’s a fact. If they guys at row or joe need, or want anything they have to risk their life on “Road Kill” road to go to FOB MICHAEL to get it. That would show that Michael is a step up from where they are at. Right? Now if you can get this upset over that one line in my entire comment then you really don’t get what I was saying, or who I was saying it to. This debate was going on long before you used the “amenity” word. Make no mistake, my anger and frustration began many articles ago when my soldier was on his third 24 hour mission and had not eaten in two days and all I heard about from the bigger fobs was swimming pools and ice cream and catered meals! Thanks for the lecture, but it is misplaced and just shows once again, like jsd wrote, that some people get it, and some people don’t. If that insults you then I’m really sorry. And if my comment about Michael being a step up from joe and row angers you then you can certainly relate to why those with soldiers at Stryker and Taji got angry too. But I don’t know how many ways we have to say it, but this isn’t about what any of your soldiers have. It’s about the health, safety, and well-fare of our soldiers. And anyone who takes our comments and cries for help PERSONALLY are missing the point. And by the way. When we yelled about the crotch being torn out of the uniforms…it changed! Things will change at joe and row too. We won’t shut up until it does. Thank you again for the lecture it was really long. Nice of ajc to include all of it. Especially since they decided to edit down my friends comments and not include at all some of the others! Best Wishes to you and you soldier.

By hcp

August 26, 2005 12:18 PM | Link to this

BRAVO WHINER! You speak for MANY of us. I agree 100% with everything you said. We are not enemies here…I wish people would stop acting like we are. GOOD FOR YOU!!!

By Michelle B

August 26, 2005 12:29 PM | Link to this

how many times does someone have to say they agree with you before you stop?

By Desaree H.

August 26, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

Marie, Michelle what’s with this? If anybody is behaving badly it’s the people who are critizing these wives, mothers and father’s who are trying to get help for their family members. You must be missing some of the information they are giving. I read ajc everyevening and my heart goes out to these people. I haven’t taken it to mean they are against your family members having anything they can get. But I guess that’s is because I don’t have anyone at the camps you are arguing about. I think you guys are misreading what is being written because you know it’s true. And that’s ok too. It’s ok for your family member to have it better if they do. I don’t see where anyone has had a problem with that. They have said it over and over and over. Why do you feel they are taking something away from your soldier because they are saying the camps at Row and Joe are worse camps? That is what I don’t get? I’m on the outside looking in and from my view it is you all who are causing the argument. Why can’t you support these people in getting help for their family members instead of jumping down their throats? I am calling and writing and doing what I can to help. I have also read the comments from some of the people that are at these camps. Have you read them? I don’t know what they are going through but it must be pretty bad. I think you don’t need to be some paronoid and have some compassion. These people don’t have anything againt you. Not that I see.

By LTC's wife

August 26, 2005 01:58 PM | Link to this

For pete’s sake guys somebody say UNCLE! Whiner you are right. Nobody gets it. They don’t get it because it isn’t their Soldier. They can’t get it. They never will get it. My Soldier agrees more could be done for the guys at these fobs. And you are doing what you need to in order to bring attention to the situation. But you are wasting your time with people who are not going to help you or your Solider. Your energy could be better spent else where. And Michelle, you are right. A lot of people are doing a lot of in-your-face yelling about the condition their Soldier is in. Maybe they are a little loud. Maybe you are just too sensitive. I can say this. Fear makes people do things they would never do under other circumstances. I hear in their yelling that these family members are scared to death for their Soldier, and since you admit your Soldier is not at Joe or Roe maybe you and some of the other’s could take the high road and allow those who have Soldiers at these fobs to express themselves witout feeling so condemed and lashing back. Their yelling has nothing to do with you. I don’t think they ever intended it to be taken personally. I certainly haven’t taken it personally at all. They are afraid. That’s all. And they are doing exactly what I did and what I think you would do too if your Soldier was there. Now, could we all just disagree and please move on to another subject. AJC hopefully you will do all of us a favor and close the comments to this article soon.