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Cindy, Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:11:58 GMT

Bravery Honor Heart. Couldn't be prouder of our fighting men and women. While sorry for you and your families sacrifices please know we all honor them and respect them. You have a tough deal and we hope you all are safe. And home again very, very soon.

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ANN KELLY,LAUREL MARYLAND — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:12:47 GMT

My Prayer go out the brave, this means the women and men that are fighting and putting their life on the line daily. (I don't understand why.)But they are doing the best job they can. After reading this letter it is sad to think of what they are going thru. I pray for all the families that are suffering just so they can see their love ones alive again. MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU ALWAYS IS MY PRAYER

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Christy Grand Rapids Mi — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:18:34 GMT

amazing, thank you so much for posting this. Being a military wife for 17 years. these letters he writes as well as his wife being able to explain to the troops wives makes it so much easier. I agree that more of this needs to be published so that todays world can still see the good we are doing and the fact that our troops are proud to be serving you have my support

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Ned, Bradenton, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:24:44 GMT

I think we all understand what he's going through. What we don't understand is why he has to, why he is there and why does this remind so much of when I was in Vietnam. The is none so willing to put others in harm's way than those who have never fired a shot in anger.

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george nerio, san fernando,ca. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:28:03 GMT

may the lord bless you and all the men and woman that are over there with you and bring you all home soon. i think that stories like these should be front page new's.

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Valerie Bond, Bethlehem PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:28:30 GMT

My husband is a reservist corpsman for the Marine Corps, and I agree that people in this country do not understand the sacrifices these men and women are making everyday to try and keep us safe and to make a difference. Whether or not you agree with this war, our men and women are over there fighting for things they believe in, and I think we should support them as much as we possibly can. We must not forget their families. Many of these servicemen and women that we have lost have children, spouses and families that have paid the ultimate price.

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Cami, Farmington Missouri — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:30:05 GMT

And that ladies and gentleman, is why I am damn proud to be an American. Cami

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Omoie Weaver — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:30:15 GMT

Thank You nso much for sharing this with us and I pray for the safe return of you and your troop;

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Amanda Lynn, Wilburton, Oklahoma — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:34:58 GMT

I love my country. Every part of it and hearing stories like this one makes me believe that this is not only the best place to live but to share it with such people is an honer. I more than likely never get a chance to thank these heros in person but I pray everyday they know just how much they mean to me and my family. I look at my kids, growing up so fast and so happy and i know it would never happen if it wasn't for people like those mentiond in Dales letter. I just wanted to say thank you. You put your life on the line everyday and in everything you do, thank you. Amanda Lynn Oklahoma

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Betty King, South Haven, Michigan — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:35:35 GMT

May God hold each and every soldier in His loving arms and bring them home safe and sound...and soon. And may the politicians cease and desist with using our soldiers as chess pieces in their power plays for partisan political control.

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Laura Ninan, Greenville, SC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:36:32 GMT

All I can say is God Bless every one of our soldiers around the globe but especially in Iraq.

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Art Schefler — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:37:47 GMT

And those liberal nuts continue to embolden the enemy!

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Anita, Williamsville, New York — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:38:05 GMT

Thank you for sharing his letter with me. I do have friends that are over there in Iraq, not just in the military but also as private contractors. It's a blessing that we have men and women in the war that are trying to make a difference in Iraq and putting their lives in risk for the sake of humanity in that country. I know how that is because my father served in Vietnam and the first Iraqi war. My sisters and I are just very thankful that are father came back in one piece and that his mind was strong enough to handle everything he has seen. Anita

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Terri, Port St Lucie, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:38:32 GMT

It's about time some more positive details are released! Seems all the regular media wants to concentrate on Bush and errors instead. My son is home on leave from Baghad right now, lost 2 buddies last week to IED's. He's scheduled for surgery on his shoulder today and is anxiously awaiting the 90 recovery to get back with his unit as they were one of the units extended from 12 to 15 month tours. I hear so much of what (we) are doing positive over there and it never seems to go public. The Army set up a medical unit to help the Iraqi's..civilian and all... but the only place I found any documentation on it was through Fort Lewis publications! Thank you for taking the time to share a positive note with the rest of this world!!!!!

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Bill — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:38:43 GMT

I think this is a great story of what the soldiers are going through everyday and for what? Operation Iraqi Liberation (OIL). Our soldiers are the best ever, and their duty is to protect the country and the constitution and not this administration to become wealthy at all cost. In 20 years who ever control Iraq will control the world economy, due to the amount of oil reserve in that country, so it is all about OIL. bring them home and let Dick and others do the fighting for oil.

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Peter Wallin, Key Biscayne, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:39:40 GMT

I feel so insignificant reading about soldiers like these, and am eternally grateful for their service. How can they not be treated as heroes when they return and how can we not make sure that they immediately taken care of . It iseems so easy, if the goverment can't make it happen, simple donations, to our heroes, like the one dollar to the election campaign, or wilderness fund, would seem to be a minimal no brainer.

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Carolyn Lee Mele, Cuesta de Piedra, Republic of Panama — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:39:59 GMT

I find it so hard to read these but it is hard to read anything related to this war. Then, the news is full of information whether correct or not we all want to know what is going on. I have a niece over there (Iraq) and most times we do not know where she is her time is limited when it comes to communication home. In reading Mr. Kuehl's letter it is hard to keep the tears from flowing, please tell him my prayers are with him and his men as I keep adding names to daily prayers. As a fatherless daughter as a result of WW2 I hate what is going on with our country. Please tell him to be strong and I admire his bravery hopefully he will return to his family safely. Thank You C.L.Mele

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Shelly McCarthy — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:40:28 GMT

I believe everyone is making a sacrifice being away from family and friends. I applaude each and everyone one of you service members for your sacrifices. I myself have a son currently in fallujah Iraq, and had another son who served in 2005. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. The McCarthy Family

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Mike Smith Newark, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:41:17 GMT

Outstanding Warrior class Americans...The Colonel hit it in the "V' ring center mass...these men do what most American men won't, let alone contemplate! Well done LtCol Kuehl, you'd have made a fine Marine!!! Semper Fi Mike Smith/GySgt (USMC Ret.)

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Linda Palmeri, Port Richey, — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:41:23 GMT

I want to thank all of our troops in iraq. I love them all for placing thereself in harms way every minute of the day and seven days a week. No one understands what the troops go through. I want to wish all of them well, and may there angles look after them every day, with every minute to keep them all safe, and bring them home to there families. Once they return we need to try to understand what they have been through. love, honor and respect everyone one of them, because they fight for our live and the people from 9-11. may god bless and keep them.

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William, Dallas TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:41:31 GMT

Lt Col: I think the American people do know that you and your men and women have these kinds of days. What we do not know is why we (US) are still there. The current administration has NOT and IS NOT convincing us why you must continue! I will continue to pray and do what ever I can to bring our ground troops home. Stay vigilant!

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Angela Johnson, Florien, Louisiana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:41:44 GMT

I think you guys are the greatest heroes ever.....My daughter is dating a young man that is in the National Guard/Army...he has alot of anger issues(from serving a year in Iraq) and I'm hoping the Good Lord will ease his emotions and yours as well...God Bless you and your group of outstanding men...WE LOVE ALL OF YOU....

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Yolanda, Houston, Texas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:41:55 GMT

This brings tears to my eyes! Our soldiers are the best of the best!! We want to bring each and everyone of you home safe and sound. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers each and every day. You may be a world away, but you are right here in our hearts! Keep up the great work.

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stock — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:42:03 GMT

You wonder why these guys do this, certainlt not for Murtha, Pelosi, and Reid. We should all be very proud.

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Terry & Deb Adolph, Chadwick IL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:43:06 GMT

This is why we must continue to keep praying for an end to this - it is destroying too much. We need to put God back on the top of the priority list. May God continue to be with each & everyone of those who are fighting for our freedom.

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kadir baksh trinidad west indies — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:43:54 GMT

Hi my name is kadir baksh i live in trinidad i just wanted to say i admire what you guys are doing to make the world a better and safer place may god protect you and your families

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James Head — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:44:17 GMT

I only wish all the politicians would read this and take it to heart. It is a shame these heros ,that are living in conditions not fit for wild animals , must endure all the hardships of the war and deal with all the idots back here. All I hear in this area is how crowded the jails are and the living conditions. I am sure these soldiers / heros would love to have these conditions.

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cheryl-huntsville alabama — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:44:21 GMT

Thank you-thank your family for the love support they give you each day. I am a AF mom and I am very proud of the mission you see/do each day. God Bless you-your family

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Cora — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:44:27 GMT

I Thank God everyday for all the men and women of our Armed Forces,for they are our Freedom,and it do everyone good to remember that,treat them with RESPECT,AND HONOR,for they fought foe your's......

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Kathleen A Condap 840 N. Delancey Ave. San Dimas CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:45:11 GMT

Thank you for this story. These are the kinds of stories that my son-in-law and his friends sent to us when he was in Iraq. Would be nice to hear more like this from the media, but since there is no controversy in it, I really don't expect that. Too bad the media and some of our senators and congressmen really don't think our service people are heros.

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Deb Dunham — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:45:13 GMT

There is no way to express our gratitude to the men and women of our armed forces. Whatever our feelings about the way we got there - the fact is - we are there - and it falls to our military to execute the orders of the politicians. This story is only one of many that illustrate the dedication and excellence of our fighting men and women.

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Jim Bartlett, lodi, California — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:45:29 GMT

It is with a great deal of pride that I read of the men and women of our country who give of their time and indeed of their lives to help protect not only our lives and way of life, but also of the lives of the people in the region they are in. God speed.........

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Carlan Myers — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:45:32 GMT

Thank you so much for getting this into print. Regardless of how any of us feel about war, we cannot forget what these men and women do each and everyday to protect freedom around the world. They are truely hero's in every sense of the word.

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Andrea Neal, Port Hueneme, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:46:16 GMT

I could not be more proud of these brave men and women in Iraq. They are the barrier that stands between freedom and terrorism. I myself am a U.S. Navy Seabee wife and my husband has had three consecutive tours of duty to Iraq, including the tour in which I was pregnant with our first child, now two. I will teach her as she gets older that other men and women like her daddy are the real heroes in this country, not someone who can throw a football well.

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LAURA WHIGHAM, WEST BROOKFIELD, MA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:46:20 GMT

hello dale, i just read your story. It is sad,yet heroic. I'm sure there are many things that are just horrible for our soldiers. I think you are very brave for fighting for our country and pray for your return home to your loved one. you tell all those soldiers we do care about them and we love them all for what they are risking for our country.Here are words from our God "Fear thou not, for I am with thee;be not dismayed for i am thy God; I will strenthen the. Yea I will, I will help thee yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isaiah chapter 41 vs. 10" GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FELLOW SOLDIERS.

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Alisha Bippus, Triadelphia WV — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:46:46 GMT

I have friends who have been there. Everytime I hear what these soldiers go through I cry. They are really going through Hell on Earth and I do appreciate everything they are put through. God love their families for being there for them unconditionally. THANK YOU!!

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Deborah Rafford, Houlton, Maine — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:47:04 GMT

This is the kind of story that NEEDS to be printed in every newspaper in the United States. As a wife and mother of four (4) Military Men, I am sick to death of the media and what it 'choses' to print, rather than what actually happens. This is the stuff "HEROES" are made of, and it's time the American Public becomes aware of it. My sons have all been in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, one is on his fourth tour. And as I sit and have breakfast with his two small sons (giving mom a break), I am overwhelmed at the true danger that our soldiers are in, every minute of the time they are away from their loved ones. *Is there a special permission I would have to get to put this article in our Bangor Daily Newspaper, in the great state of Maine? I think folks here, who are the most patriotic bunch I have ever known, would also appreciate a bit of honesty coming from this war. Please contact me via email with your answer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lt.Col. Dale Kuehl and the 1st Battalion -5th Cavalry Regiment, U.S. Army. God Bless you all, from a very grateful nation.

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Rob Jamieson, Buffalo NY, veteran. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:47:25 GMT

The dichotomy of what is moraly correct and deemed appropriate by the white house leaves a giant void of a nomansland conveniently occupied by our men and women who when commanded to fight do so with such courage that it makes the prior comment sting your consciousness and your mind race for a self satisfying answer. I pray for those people in that nomansland. God help them.

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JANET, ILLINOIS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:47:32 GMT

WHAT ELSE CAN BE SAID TO A MAN WHO PUTS HIS LIFE ON THE LINE EVERY DAY FOR MINE AND MY FAMILY BUT "THANKS". NO MATTER WHAT I THINK OF THE WAR - THESE MEN AND WOMEN ARE MY HEROES AND I THANK THEM DEEPLY.

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Shaun Kirby,Alexandria,Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:49:01 GMT

GOD Bless each and everyone of our BRAVE soldiers. I pray for all of the men and women serving our country. America needs people like these soldiers in the letter and thankfully we still have real americans willing to serve for our country. No matter what harry reid says we ARE and we WILL WIN this War.

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art LaFleur Phoenix, AZ. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:49:05 GMT

As a WW2 aND kOREA grunt it seems that grunt fighting never changes. We take casualties and the enemy runs away. SFC Art. LaFleur US Army Ret.

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T. Tran HOUSTON , TEXAS. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:50:09 GMT

I am greatly appreciacedfor all soldier's sacrifice&dedication for all living lives on this wild world. Please send my love & prayers to all soldiers who still fight for others.God bless them all&watch over their shoulders.I am crying while I am writing this message.Send my regards to all of them.A refugee from a war country,VIET NAM.I also lost my loves family members in the war.Praying this world will live in peace one day.

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Therese Squeri, Westlake OH — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:51:29 GMT

I wish Pres. Bush (and the remaining 36% of the country who support him) would read this. We are putting our soldiers in an impossible situation. Those Iraqis will keep killing each other and us. They don't want a democracy, they just want their tribe to have power and money. Corruption is rampant among the Iraqi politians. How is it that Ayad Alawi lives like a millianaire in London? Thanks Richard Engel and the Kuehl family for getting this out. I support our troops; I just wish Pres. Bush did.

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Pamela, Austell, Georgia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:51:39 GMT

I ache for your pain, inside. I do not know exactly what your feeling but I have an idea, I live with a Iraq Freedom soildier, it is very hard for them returning home when their counterparts are still there it's like they feel as though they have to return to help, the WAR inside them will never be over, the shame of what they saw and had to do will forever remain. The return home for my soldier was in body only his soul is still OVER THERE with his family (fellow soldiers)we, us have to have patience for what seems like FOREVER they have good days but most are bad, nightmares, shakes, and really really bad attituides, but we have to be stronger then them emotionally, it helps all involved, sure easier said than done, but just remember, they are fighting so that we can, sleep, eat, walk, talk etc... I love my soldier even more and I will continue to support our troops forever. Love from someones who lives with a soldier

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Chuni Patel — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:51:50 GMT

We should pull back our troup as soon as possible.If they DO NOT WANT HELP We should NOT care.....

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Debbie Moffett, Beaver Falls, PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:52:49 GMT

Interesting.

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Daisy Dawn, OKC, OK — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:52:59 GMT

Our troops deserve better. They've done everything asked of them. But they can't make the Sunnis love the Shiites. It's time to bring them home.

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Sandy Indiana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:53:13 GMT

As the mother of a US ARMY solider who has just returned from his second tour, I totally agree with Dale that our soliders do not get the credit they deserve either by our government or our citizens. The soliders deserve more pay and more commitment from our citizens. Just a simple care package, card or letter can show the soliders that they are not forgotten. Thank you Richard from keeping us informed.

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Dan Ditto, Yazoo City, Mississippi — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:53:25 GMT

I think we all respect the soldiers sacrafice, but it is time to end this. We need to get the Americans out of there and let the Iraqis govern or fail. We need to let the Sunnis know that if we leave we will give weapons to the kurds, sell to the shite and laugh at the Sunni and their potentialy genicidal predicament (let them reap the payback for Theirs and Saddams aggressions, they seem to want it)for keeping this horrible war going. We should be trying to buff up Kurdistan and Turkey the only two potential democracys in the Muslim world.

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JOE MASCHINOT, ATLANTA, GA. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:53:38 GMT

WE MUST STOP THIS PAIN AND TORTURE OF PEOPLE. STOP THE WAR. BRING OUT TROOPS HOME

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Rose McCollough, Parker CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:54:10 GMT

Dear Dale, my heart goes out to you and your fellow soldiers. As a mother of two in the military I truly understand your frustration. I pray for all your return to be safe. God bless you.

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Canada — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:55:02 GMT

I too write the soldiers on a regular basis and I cannot describe in words how wonderful a job they are doing and how their sacrifices are appreciated. We have our freedom because of what they do and have done over the years and my thoughts are not only with them but with their families. It is a very tough time for all and thank you for everything you are doing.

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Vicki, Sacramento, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:56:15 GMT

I do not have the language to adequately express my amazement at the courage displayed by these people nor my profound sense of dispair that there appears no end to their engagement. I grieve the impact of this violence on everyone involved.

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Robin West, Frankfort, Kentucky — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:56:17 GMT

I have thought that I was ok in remembering the soldiers in my prayers at night and occassionally during the day I think of them and say another prayer. I will admit however, I cannot fathom the horror and chaos that they go through daily while we (citizens) sit at home doing our own thing, complaining off and on over the t.v or what to have for dinner. I am ashamed at times. I know these are trivial issues compared to our soldiers, the heros who give us every opportunity to live freely. I sincerely hope they realize we are all SO proud and honored. There seems to be no way of actually letting them know the depth of our gratitude and sorrow. Through prayer is my only consolation of giving the soldiers some solace for I know God has a special place for all of our brave men and women when either old age takes them or the horrors of war. I cannot be as confident of heaven but then I haven't given my life for strangers or my country as these people have.

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Beverly Clemmons, Hudson, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:56:46 GMT

God bless these fine and brave young men! We can never express our gratitude enough, but I hope they realize they're in our prayers daily.

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Jason M. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:57:22 GMT

Thank you so much for giving us a story that isn't only about Bush and how many people are dying in Iraq. It is good to finally see a true firsthand and personal news report that is based on the war. This is an article that shows exactly what kind of heroism is being displayed everyday in Iraq. It shows the sacrifices our soldiers make to create a difference in the world. It shows the sacrifices they are making to be there for their fellow man. These men and women put their lives on the line everyday to protect what to believe in and each other. Lt. Col. Kuehl and his soldiers are courageous and make me proud to be an American.

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Nancy McDonough, Illinois — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:57:35 GMT

I agree that we do not know what these brave, brave men do everyday for us Americans, we can only imagine. I pray we never have to see war inside our own country as these men experience every day and I thank God and them that they are doing this for us and our freedom. May God Bless all of our military, no matter where they are.

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Michelle Johnson, Springdale, AR — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:57:52 GMT

Would like to say THANKS to all the men & women who are putting their lives in danger everyday so that we can have the country that we have today. All of you are awesome in my book. THANKS again to all of you in the military.

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Jean Ogle, York, PA. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:57:57 GMT

I know that this war is a very hard war and I would like to say THANK YOU to all the brave soldiers who are in harms way and saving my freedom - My prayers are with you and your families - Please try to remember that there are people who appreciate you sacrifice and are prayer to God for your safe return.

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Kati, Wichita, KS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:58:00 GMT

We are blessed everyday for the sacrifices these men and women are making to keep us free. Thank you and God Bless each and every one of you! Thank you for your life and your sacrifice Lt. Col. Kuehl

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Barbara Roy-Ruan, Houston, Texas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:58:22 GMT

I care. I pray for these men and women every day. How can we get care packages to them and what can we not send. I am with a small church that is will to send care packages to our families. May the WINGS of HE who is above us all be their watch-care day and night.

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Alexander Clayton, Washington, DC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:58:42 GMT

As interesting as it is to read such a descriptive account of an attack on US Forces in Iraq, I can't share in the overall sentiment. These men and women should not be there. Regardless of what they are doing, the mission is illegal, immoral, and is doing nothing but further destroying our country's standing as a member of the free world. I love history, and often read first person accounts of battles and events which took place during WW2. As much as I enjoy the stories, I can't help but compare the emotions elicited from a Germans soldiers detailed recount of his horrible experiences in Stalingrad to the emotions I feel reading this letter. And honestly, I feel more for the German. At least his story was retold with grim accuracy, with no hint of sappy patriotism to be found, which is more than I can say of any of the "letters home" which I have read.

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Becky, Des Moines, Iowa — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:59:11 GMT

I cannot think of anything to say that can show all my appreciation for our troops. They are truely the most selfless & bravest heros here on earth. I thank you for protecting my children, my family & my friends. My heart and prayers go out to our troops and their families.

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Ginny Hawkenson — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:59:11 GMT

I work with these military men avery day at Ft Hood and I am constantly impressed with our leaders. Because of my job I work with leaders from Division commanders all the way to squad leaders and for those that are not as lucky as I am, I am proud to say that the Army leaders are some of the finest people on the planet. Almost all of them feel about their Soldiers just as LTC Kuehl feels about his. Thank you LTC Kuehl and Mrs. Kuehl for your service. And thank you Mr Engel for sharing a positive story out of Iraq. As a soldier's wife I know that alot of good things happen "over there" and the American Public doesn't hear about enough of them

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Ron Gatto / New York — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:59:35 GMT

As a Law Enforcement Officer I can full understand what you and your soldiers are going through. I appreciate all you are doing for our Country. But i think its time to come home. We need to keep our own Country safe and strong. RG

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Disgusted by Bush, Rochester, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:00:42 GMT

It's too bad that these brave soldiers are being told by their own commander in chief that the American people don't support them. What the American people are having a problem with is the lying and corruption which has put these brave men and women in a terrible position. It's the Politicans that we don't approve of, yet those same politicians are willing to allow the soldiers to think that they don't have our full support.

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Debby Young Bellevue, Ne. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:00:45 GMT

How heroic. I am ever so thankful for our men and women in harms way. Thank you. Do our fighting forces believe in what they are asked to do and if so why isn't the media doing more to show the public the good we are doing? Does the media hate our commander in chief so much they only report what they want which is all negetive? I have little to no respect for the media any more.

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Diane, Cleveland, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:01:11 GMT

I would like to thank you and all the men and women that are fighting this war. My heart bleeds everytime I read the paper or see the news. I appreciate all that you do and will pray that you come home safe.

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richard de la guardia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:01:28 GMT

well no question our guys are the best.i hope that while we understand and appreciate their sacrafice; that they understand that we may not all agree to sending them to fight for people in a civil war in a country like iraq, were our democracy is an alien concept and religion and terror are the order of the day.we support them and feel terrible for the suffering of their families.but its been 4 years

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Jennifer Gunderman — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:01:28 GMT

Thank you for sharing this inspirational message. M y prayers are with Lt. Col. Dale Kuehl, his injured men, and their families. Lt. Kuehl puts its best when he states to his wife, "they are the salt of the earth". He too is included in that statement. As a mother of a recently returned soldier, I am of course overjoyed with his safe return. But I have to tell you, the war is not over for me. We are all truly a military family. I realized I will not feel at ease until all our heros are home. Yes I am relieved and thankful and God has given me the greatest gift, my son's safe return, however it does not deter me from the worry, the grief and the anxiety for our soldiers still over there Honestly, this surprized me. Although I knew I would always care and pray for our soldiers, I still feel like a piece of me is missing like I did when my son was gone. I realized it is due to the "military family". No one on this earth but us realizes the sacrifice, the honor, the danger, and the pride lived everyday for those in our military. I am proud to be among what I feel are the TRUE AMERICAN HEROS and have been for generations, our military. My concern, prayers and tears will not stop and I will not truly be at peace until all members of my military family are home. God bless them and keep them all.

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Thomas Mccrimmon, Lebanon, TN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:01:44 GMT

As a veteran of this great nation, I feel their pain, and as a old NCO I understand the feeling of responsibility for the men. When we read of these stories, it brings new meaning to the word "Hero". Americans should be very grasteful to have men that serve this country with great vigor and dedication. Thanks for sharing the story, please keep them coming..."GarryOwen"!

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C Cass, Palmyra, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:02:42 GMT

And many of us do Lt. Col. and we hold all the troops and your families close in our hearts and pray for the day when you will all be back home with your families once more. A Navy Mom

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John and Pat Fasterling, Ignacio, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:02:45 GMT

Our prayers are with you. We appreciate what you are doing. Your heroic efforts and sacrifices are forever in our hearts. Do not let anyone try to convince you that your efforts are in vain. Your shed blood and tears are the cost of our freedom here in the United States. Many know that freedom is never free, it is by your treasured blood. May God richly bless you and those around you in the Armed Services of America. Jesus loves you, and so do we!

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Michelle, Miami, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:04:00 GMT

It's easy for us on the sideline to have no appreciation for what these guys are doing because let's face it, we're not in it and we're not losing our lives. It takes a special person to be a soldier, and an even more special person to stand up and serve in the midst like Lt. Col. Kuehl, his crew, and all the troops in Iraq. I'm sure if you ask, they'll say it’s their duty, but I for one, will try to be more grateful. Much love to them and I'll definitely be praying for the safe return of all our troops. Keep the faith guys....

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Kathy Bailey Crystal Springs, MS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:04:27 GMT

This is exactly what Americans need to read....makes me tear up and hurt inside knowing the way congress is turning it's back on these brave men/women.

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Kathleen Cowing, Belmont, MA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:04:37 GMT

Please for once, to the first few people to comment: This is not a forum for you to complain about the war, or demand the troops home. It is a forum for you to read and understand and appreciate the heroes and the jobs they do. To truly to support them is to value their work. Not demand they end it. I want my husband back in my arms as much as anyone, but to truly support him is to honor his work, and believe that he is doing good, no matter where or why he is where he is. Thank you to all of them.

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Elizabeth A. Speed El Paso/Ft Bliss TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:04:55 GMT

As an old Army sergeant and the parent of a female trooper who has been in Iraq I realize what these brave troops go through every hour they are in country. They are the best of the best and while we may agree with why we are there in Iraq, WE ALWAYS SUPPORT THEM. We live in El Paso which is home to Fort Bliss. Between the students I have taught or know thanks to my own children and the friends we have that are military, we are affected daily by what is happening in Iraq. Regardless of your beliefs about why the U.S. continues to be in Iraq, we are behind all of these brave troops, male and female. HOOOOHAAAAA!!!!

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Armentia Adams — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:05:34 GMT

I personally was against the war from the very beginning. The outcome has been exactly what I expected. I remember Vietnam. My husband served in the military during Vietnam as a draftee. My brother a career Navy man also served in Vietnam for one year. It's very frustrating to me as a patriotic American to have my objection to the war linked with my patriotism (or what they perceive as lack of patriotism). To read of these heroic men gives me great pride and appreciation for their sacrifice. My hope and prayer is that the war can be ended soon so young men do not have to die or spend their lives handicapped physically, mentally, or emotionally handicapped. God Bless America. Armentia Adams

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COACH STAR MACON, GA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:05:46 GMT

I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO ALL THE SOLDIERS WHO PUT THEIR LIFE ON THE LINE SO SOMEONE ELSE CAN BE ABLE TO ENJOY THE SAME FREEDOM WE HAVE HERE IN THE US IT IS TIME FOR THE WORLD TO STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT THE WAR AND GET BEHIND OUR MILITARY AND SUPPORT THEM. tHEY LIVE IN FEAR AND DANGER EVERYDAY SO THEY CAN PROTECT OUR RIGHT TO BE ABLE TO COMPLAIN. GOD BLESS THEM ALL AND THEIR FAMILIES AS THEY MAKE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE.

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Melodie, South Carolina — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:05:49 GMT

People take the word "Hero" so lightly anymore. Like with most things we have become desensitized. Thank you for putting this letter out there and I salute all of the men and women in our Armed Forces as well as all of the families. The families may not be over there but they are just as much an integral part of this war as are our soldiers. Without their support it would be much more difficult for our soldiers! So with all my heart I just want to again say Thank You, you do your jobs and don't complain and wouldn't it be great if the rest of the world worked that way :) Please take care.

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Rick, Danielsville, GA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:06:48 GMT

God Bless and Keep ALL of the youmg men and women that serve their counties in this world wide conflict of terror verse peace. The war will only be over when people can go to the market, to worship or sleep in their homes safety, the world over! My son came home some of his friends and those under his command didn't. Thank God for my blessings!!!

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Dorene, Springfield, IL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:07:15 GMT

Your story brings me to tears, tears of pride, sorrow and joy that I am an American with people like you as my countrymen/women. I can not begin to tell you how much I love and appreciate everyone of the men and women in our service. A simple thank you is not enough, but it is from the very core of my heart and soul, THANK YOU. My prayers are with each and everyone of you and may God be with you.

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Pat Alley — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:07:24 GMT

Incredible men and women there in Iraq! Makes me want everyone's address so I can thank them personally. We will never understand their faithfulness to commit to what they are sent there to do. Thank you men and women for protecting me, my family, grandchildren, and each other. I love you from the bottom of my heart. Wish I could give something back to all of you. I will pray, that I can give.

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Betty Whalen, Pennsauken, New Jersey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:07:29 GMT

I, for one, cannot thank you and your men and women for what you are trying to accomplish over there. My husband is a Vietnam Vet, Air Force, and my nephew is over there for the Marines, so I understand what you all are trying to accomplish. You are right, not enough of these stories ever get told. Thank you again.

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Genie Coats, Meridian, Mississippi — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:07:40 GMT

Sirs: Thank you for this article. It helped us to realize, what all is happening over there. We appreciate our soldiers and what they are doing for us. Even though, as soldiers have told us, words cannot give a true picture of what it is all about, this helped a lot. Thank you, Genie Coats

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Sean, Torrington CT — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:08:03 GMT

While I respect these men for their willingness to serve and for their loyalty to one another...I am still sad. They are being mis-used. Their mission has no honor in it, there is only the honor they make for themselves. Let us bring them home ASAP so healing can begin and they can be ready to REALLY defend us...instead of acting out some draft-dodging failed-businessman's dreams of being remembered by history. Well...Bush will be remembered by history all right...

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Elizabeth A. Speed El Paso/Ft Bliss TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:08:19 GMT

As an old Army sergeant and the parent of a female trooper who has been deployed in Iraq I realize what these brave troops go through every hour they are in country. They are the best of the best and while we may not agree with why we are there in Iraq, WE ALWAYS SUPPORT THEM AND MUST CONTINUE TO DO SO. We live in El Paso which is home to Fort Bliss. Between the students I have taught or know thanks to my own children and the friends we have that are military, we are affected daily by what is happening in Iraq. Regardless of your beliefs about why the U.S. continues to be in Iraq, we are behind all of these brave troops, male and female. HOOOOHAAAAA!!!!

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Lorajean Weitnauer, Sanford, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:08:41 GMT

I was very happy to see this on MSN today. I am the sister of a 1st Sgt in the Army. My brother will be redeployed for his 3rd tour in Iraq in August. It amazes me how little the daily heroism of our armed forces is reported. I can not begin to put into words the awe and respect I have for our men and women in uniform and thank God every day that they have our backs. The soldiers in this article are to be commended. I just wish our country did more to recognize and support them. Thank you for bringing this story to us.

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Anna Lentz, New York. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:09:25 GMT

Now you know how Iraqies feel. This is the price you pay for invading their country with your freedom and democracy, or - as the rest of the world sees it - death and destruction. Good luck.

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serena newman springfield or — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:09:27 GMT

sir and family i want you to know that i am proud of all of the young men and women who are putting themselves in harms way to protect our country. i have a son in the marine corps who wants to go over there and do his duty. i taught him to take responsibility and to do his job as though he were working for the jewish carpenter who is our savior. I want you to know that i know that my son, my dad and my brothers would be proud of you all as well. i do not feel that we are doing enough to support our troops or their families during this awful war. i also know that if we had not done something to stop what happened in 9/11 it would have gotten worse. thank you all so much. you are awesome people and you all deserve to be honored for your service. if there is anything that i can do to help you please do not hesitate to let me know. i will do what i can to help you.

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Peter Sauchinitz, Sarasota, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:09:31 GMT

what we have done, to the men and women of our military IS A DIGRACE. father of a U.S. Marine

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J. Gall, Smyrna, Georgia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:10:12 GMT

I believe we in America support ALL of the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and definately recognize that not everyone would do what you do, or the military would be turning people away. We are angry at the administration that put you in harms way and still does not provide you with all the equipment you need to protect yourself and win this war. I feel that the Iraqi people need to stand up and start helping to protect their country, as we can not stay there forever. I would like to know what we in America can do to get you all of the things you need to stay safe while you protect us. I am angry at the administration for not protecting our borders - Bin Laden could have come accross through Mexico more than once. Maybe if they had caught him you all in Iraq could come home. I am angry that we haven 't gone after him, since he is the one that attacked us on 9/11, not Hussein. May God Bless & Protect you.

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Mike Pritchard, Oakton, Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:11:29 GMT

Unfortunately this just underscores the fact that we need to get out of there, while I give 100 %support and admiration for the soldier's courage, we are target practice for the Iraqis at this point. You cannot win a guerilla war against car bombers and ied's it seems.

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Tricia, SC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:11:30 GMT

I am a married women with two young children. I just read this and almost feel immobilized by emotion... there are many of us here in the US that DO DEEPLY APPRECIATE ALL THAT EACH AND EVERY SOLDIER IS DOING FOR OUR SAFETY HERE IN THE STATES. THANK YOU WITH ALL OF OUR HEARTS. More and most importantly, for those soldiers and families who are sacrificing, first for God's glory, because they are Christians, be encouraged that your labors will be rewarded in eternity future.

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denise, Cashmere, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:12:04 GMT

i wish the rest of the country would understand how phenomenal these men and women are, and support their efforts! the terrorists want us dead, and really the only thing between that threat and us is these men and women! shame on the Dems for infusing the anti-war people with hope of failure. we MUST support our troops!

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Denver, Colorado — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:12:09 GMT

They aren't "HEROS" at all. Just because they are in a dangerous and deadly situation doesn't mean that they are heros. Considering the real reasons they are there, it means they are "STUPID" for allowing themselves to be put in harms way. They aren't fighting for liberty and justice and freedom or anything of the kind!

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Mike — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:12:20 GMT

You are a true American if: You are deeply appreciative, and undoubtedly respectable of those who are maintaining an heroic fight for the freedom you might for granted, don't fully understand, and refuse to acknowledge. Acceptance of what is necessary is key and pulling out of this war would be devastating. Wake up America, know that there is a bigger purpose to this than your little world.

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Teresa Richmond — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:12:43 GMT

Thank you, for sharing this letter with us. As an AF Brat in my 40's, whose own father served in Vietnam, and whose brother flies now for the Air National Guard, I am tired of hearing the whining that goes on in our nation by those (Pelosi, and Hillary for example) who forget that these are real men and women serving. Has this war sucked? Beyond belief! But, it is a war, and war requires sacrifice, and we should do everything in our power to support our soldiers, seamen, airmen, and their families--financially, morally, physically (with the right equipment and support while they are in the field!), as long as such sacrifices are being made. How dare any politician, Democrat or Republican, try to manipulate the funding of the war to support their political platform? I write for a small-town newpaper, and I recently talked about the veteran's memorial near our home. I'm including a piece of that column here. I don't expect you to publish it--though I don't care if you do--but I would appreciate if you would pass it on to Lt. Col Kuehls and his men, that they might know that there are many who are praying for them and are grateful for the sacrifice they are making. From a column for the Stillwater NewsPress, April 5, 2007: "On the center peninsula is the Veteran’s memorial. One day on my walk I wandered down to the Memorial, saw our tattered flag, and began to pray for our nation and our leaders. I now stop, too, at the benches representing each branch of service.// As I pray, I rest my hands on the back of each bench, imagining instead that my hands are resting on the shoulders of one soldier, or sailor, one mother, one child, one sister...one real person represented by that memorial bench. // Of all the benches at the lake, there is one bench at which I pray most fervently. It is the bench that represents Prisoner’s of War, and those Missing in Action—the POW/MIA bench.// You do not have to be a veteran to be a prisoner. You do not have to have served to be declared missing in action. Regardless of what imprisons you—perhaps wounds of war, maybe iron bars, I pray for you. And, if like me, your pain has caused you to be missing in action while still physically present—I’m praying for you too."

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Tony, Springfield, Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:13:21 GMT

LTC Kuehl (YOU ARE A PATRIOT) I remember those days of filthy rooms that needed to be claeaned and dead animals, no running water, drinking hot water, OIF1. This is the stuff that goes on everyday in Iraq. I went to mount vernon yesterday. I saw a video on Gen Washington there. It made me fog up a bit. I too dealt with these things that the LTC talks of. For 15 months, 6 days a week on the road in Iraq, Baghdad, Najaf, Kerbala. Heroism is everywhere with our military. Thank you LTC Kuehl for taking care of your Soldiers. I was lucky to bring all of mine home in one piece. You will never forget those who served with you. I am still in constant contact with those I served with. We do it for our country and the men and women who stand to our left and right. LTC Kuehl, if you need anyting over there for your guys, e-mail me and I will get it to you. Take care.

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Sharon, Royal Oak, MI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:14:26 GMT

As a member of Soldiers' Angels, I know firsthand what brave men and women we have over there. It is a shame that the media chooses to air the bad and not the good that our heroes are doing. Keep up the great work. We are proud of you and can't wait until you all come home. www.soldiersangels.org

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Susan Hollander, Buffalo NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:14:27 GMT

My son served for 7 months in Iraq as a Specialist. When he came home, I refused to forget all the other men & women who are still over there fighting for our rights, as well as the rights of others. We cannot forget what these honorable men & women are going through every day while in the midst of war. My heart goes out to their families for the stress that they are constantly under. What these soldiers lack in supplies, they certainly make up for in courage. God bless them all.

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Ronnie, Rowlett, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:14:41 GMT

Stories like this need to be the lead in the nightly news and other accomplishments these soldiers do instead of how many soldiers have died. I am not saying you should not say it at all but it should not be the first thing people hear. Promote what these brave men and women are doing.

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Larisa, Joliet, Illinois — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:14:56 GMT

Very Interesting letter. I am praying for safe returns for all of our men and women serving our country. I would like to see them come home very soon! (It's time for them to come home)

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Tony, Springfield, Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:15:44 GMT

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Jim Thomas, Baker City, Oregon — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:15:48 GMT

Another fine young soldier who will NEVER be reported on by the mainstream media because he is proud of what he is doing. The veterans among us are proud of men and women like this who stand in harms way and are proud to be members of the American military.

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T Popplewell Albany Missouri — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:15:55 GMT

thank you so much for sharing this letter. It seems we get so caught up in day to day living and the war is just something on the news. I am ashamed to say that sometimes I just forget. I have always been proud of our soldiers and I will continue to be proud of them and pray for their quick and safe return home. May God Bless each and every one of them.

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D. Rizzo — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:16:41 GMT

I too want to thank our men and women for all THEY do. I know simply saying thank you is NOT enough! We must support them in Irac and when they finally come home. That is the least we can do. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you.

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Shereda E. Haines, Cape May, N.J. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:16:41 GMT

It is hard for us back home to fathom what you and all of our guys are dealing with every day over there. All I can do is pray for you and contact the lawmakers and keep a constant barage going to get you and us out of Iraq. They have been fighting among themselves for thousands of years and will continue to fight well after we are out of there. Let's not lose anymore of our young men any longer.

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Sujit — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:16:44 GMT

Those who live by the sword, die by the sword.

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April Jenning, St. Paul, MN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:17:12 GMT

Sure, the soldiers may be making "sacrifices"... but the point is, they are making unnecessary sacrifices. We have no just reason or purpose to be in Iraq. About five years from now, everyone will realize this and all the dismembered and traumatized vets will say, "this really does suck". If they were fighing for a just cause (not one made up by the state department), then they MIGHT be heros.

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Ed Abermanis, Howell, Michigan — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:17:15 GMT

Thank you and God Bless our Troops! We all do appreciate what you do and our thoughts and prayers are with you each and every day!!!! These words cannot exoress the FULL thanks for what you do.

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Phil Crowley, Statesboro, Georgia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:17:23 GMT

I salute you, Sir for what you and your men are doing to protect us. I am a Vietnam veteran and like the war in Iraq, people did not know of the many acts of humanity or heroism that were performed on a daily basis in the midst of combat. It is sad that the war in Iraq is a carbon copy of the war in Vietnam, but it is a fact of life. The media preys on the misfortune of civilian hardship during a conflict, but they overlook the stress, hardship, and daily dangers that our fighting forces face. I have met many soldiers on their way to Iraq and I must say they made me feel proud to have once been a soldier. They have exhibited discipline, respect, and an unconditional patriotism and desire to protect the United States from further incidents of terrorism. I have talked to soldiers that have returned and could not wait to go back to help their comrades, even at the cost of leaving their families behind again. Again, I salute you, your soldiers, and our fighting forces in the Middle East. Thank You for your patriotizm and dedication. Myself and the people of the United States are grateful and pray for your safe return.

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tom t desert springs, az — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:17:53 GMT

what a great and inspirational story. iraq and surrounding countries have been at war for centuries and will comtinue to be long after we are gone. we do not belong there, have no business there and losing our young men and women. bring them home to there loved ones. NOW

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Jill Harner, Lafayette, Indiana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:18:06 GMT

No matter our political beliefs about this war, we must ALL support our troops. The job they do enables the dream of democracy and freedom to be the goal of oppressed people all over the world. Freedom IS worth fighting for!! God Bless our soldiers and keep them safe. Amen

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MCPO Harold E. Porteous, USN-Ret Formia, Italy — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:18:28 GMT

As an old military retiree sitting around on my butt watching these guys doing only what a chosen few would, I get nostalgia for the days gone by and thank God there are still young men in our wonderful country with the heart and courage to carry on where we left off. Thank you and God bless.

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Kym BeeLer-Scott — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:18:41 GMT

Heros,Heros, Heros, not forgotten always in our hearts and our prayers. I'm a mom to two of those Heros and I can't tell you how many friends and beighbors that want them (all) of them to know how much we Honor them and thank them for what they are doing. Freedom is not free!! Army Mom of Two.

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Herman Shooster — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:28:50 GMT

As a medic in World War 2 serving in the Pacific theater, I have first hand knowledge of what these heroic men are going through. I used to say that nothing is too good for the returning infantryman. I thought we had changed the world. I've learned since that we have not changed at all. We put on a necktie and think of ourselves as civlized. I despise the decisions of our leaders who are responsable for all these thousands of deaths, American and Iraqi alike and all the wounded and broken families. I am 82 now and had hoped to leave the world a better place. I failed.

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Nick, Walled Lake MI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:28:56 GMT

Don't listen to the politicians. All Americans support and honor the troops and we can't wait to have you all back home & safe.

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Jason Jones, Fort Collins, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:09 GMT

Bravery is born from necessity. I recognize that events like this happen every day. Some good. Some bad. I feel bad for our soldiers. I feel bad for iraquies. It's unusual how 'christians' always are the first to 'support our troops.' Just remember, more or less, ones' concept of God, is primarily determined on the grographic locale of ones' birthplace and corresponding culture. Makes you think no? We are all 'gods' children right? But who am I to think, lets continue killing ourselves for 'god'. Yippee.

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amber burkett east deer Pa. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:35 GMT

i think its a great thing that the guys are alive,, but i feel that they need to be back home.. no matter what!! the fighting wont stop over there so bring our men and women back home... people might not like what i just wrote but oh well.. and i feel for all the family back home because they never know when they will get the call or the knock on the door.. but be safe and all of you people come home safe..

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Rebecca Koback, Claremont, NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:39 GMT

Thank God for all of you brave men and women. It doesn't really matter if we all support the war or not, we should all support our troops and pray for their safety. My heart and prayers go out to all of you and your families. In my eyes you are all heroes, families included. My son-in-law is completing his Marine training in California right now and he will be stationed in N.C. in about 3 weeks. He and my daughter just got married in December when he returned from boot camp. They spent one month together then he left again, and when he gets to base in 3 weeks he will recieve his deployment schedule. I see the worry in my daughters eyes and I also feel it in my heart. But on top of the worry I see the pride they both have in what he is doing. All of us should carry this pride in knowing that we have men and women who are willing to put their lives at risk for our freedom, and our country. God bless you all, we love every one of you.

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KIRK ANDRUS MD, KELSEYVILLE, CALIF. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:44 GMT

YOU ARE HEROS...ACTING WITH COURAGE AND LOVE FOR EACH OTHER..RISKING THE ULTIMATE IN A SITUATION THAT TRULY IS CRAZY AND NEED NOT BE..BE SAFE, BE CAREFUL AND COME HOME ASAP.

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Kelli Stroh — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:59 GMT

The very last paragraph of Dale's letter can not say it any better. My son is a Marine in Iraq. I am so very proud of him, this was his passion, just not what a mother would want for her son/daughter. I want to hold my breath until he comes home, even though I know that is not possible. So, in turn I pray that all of the troops will be safe and return to all of their families. God Bless all of them!

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Steve Fraim Little Rock, Arkansas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:30:16 GMT

As a parent of a soldier in Iraq for his second tour, I feel I can share input also. My son was with the 1-5 Cav during his first tour. My son's unit was also hit by an IED. All in the humvee were injured, with the driver sustaining the most injuries. These stories are so very similar. Like all we get to hear at home. We normally do not get to hear the officers side. I want to thank Lt Col Kuehl for his dedication and love for his soldiers. The comments this officer has shared in his story brings comfort to myself and hope and pray other parents grow to relize these officers are human and have emotions that we rarely get to see. I would like to give the Lt Col a small piece of advice. And I start with Please don't be too hard on yourself. You are doing an awesome job and we are all so very proud of you. Since the war I've had my family extend 10 times over. I might not be these soldiers biological dad, but I'm here to tell you I have many sons and daughters in the war and to have a Lt Col like this brings a big sense of comfort. Keep up the good work. God Bless Steve

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Imhoff Family, Auburn, AL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:30:16 GMT

Awesome, Awesome job you men and ladies are doing each and every day. There are so many around the world who "DO" appreciate your efforts and sacrifice. Be vigilant and may the Kings of Kings protect you and may you draw near to Him. We thank your families for their sacrifice as well. I admire, respect and pray that you all come home safe. You are impacting the world and will never be forgotten in our home. A Former Soldier

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Matthew McKenzie, Decatur Alabama — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:30:27 GMT

How about roothing for our side for a change. - To al the liveral morons who are inhuman enough to post negative war views as comments to an article like this. The article has nothing to do with war views, it is a piece about one individual. He did not decide to go to Iraq, he followed orders, and because he does just that, you and I can say whatever we want to.

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Ed Bartley, Seattle WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:51:15 GMT

As an American we MUST be proud of our Soldiers and in the heroic job they are doing in Iraq. Unfortunately, we are in the middle of an age old hatred between differing elements of their society. This hatred was not taken into account when we we to war. Now, it is determining how and if we can exit this war without causing total chaos. My heart aches for not only our soldiers there but for the people of Iraq that just want peace. I do not know the answer now - pulling out seems right in some ways. While staying makes some sense too. There must be an answer if we search hard enough for it. For now, no matter what your religion, the men and women of our military as well as the people of Iraq need our prayers most of all. I challenge our politicians to find a solution even if it means supporting one side of this revolutionn over the other. At least that would be a start towards some type of peace. Maybe with some controls in place that they would have to work with the other side to insure their safety. EdBartley

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Sophie Bottos, Houston TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:52:04 GMT

I am glad that this letter has been posted and I think that more should. The American people need to know truly what is happening in Iraq and to our troops. Americans need to stand up to our government and demand our troops be returned home. My brother is in the Iraq area, and while tears fill my eyes while reading this letter I am glad it is posted. May God bless each and every one of our troops wherever they are posted. I pray for your home coming to arrive very soon. Hopefully our government will realise this needs to happen sooner than later. May God protect each and everyone of you. I MISS YOU SGT. LEE ROBERTS. My brother my hero.

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Glenn Callaghan, USArmy Ret. Butte, Montana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:52:17 GMT

I agree with many of the above writers in response to the heroism shown by our troops. It has been a hard war for the Maupin faimily, yes and it is even harder for some others. My concern and I'm baffled as to why , Why? Do we have PSD's. In my tours in RVN between 1964 and 1972 the only person I can remember seeing with a PSD was Westmoreland. And that was when he graced the news media with his generalness. In my opinion a sorry individual as a man and a general officer. Yes I too would love to see these stories on the front page of our news outlets than some crapola on Alex Baldwin who swore he would leave the US if Bush was elected. Did I miss something. Wasn't Bush elected, Alex. I pray daily for all of our troops to keep them safe and allow the to return home to their loved ones. Just yesterday in Philipsburg, Montana we buried a 22 year old, with everything to live for who gave his all for these ungratefull Iraqies. I'm happy you are safe, but really having bodyguards must be nice. God Bless

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Elizabeth Hooper, Duluth, Georgia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:52:28 GMT

Who in their right mind doesn't support a soldier putting his or her life on the line? It's like asking someone if they are in favor of abortion - life and death decisions shouldn't be treated as simplistic political (or religious) sound bites. We all have the right to question the integrity, intelligence and personal motivation of the decision makers, especially when their lives are not on the line. I have infinite respect for anyone who is willing to risk their own death for something they believe in. It is the responsibility of the people who have declared war on Iraq to make the mission worthy of those soldier's sacrifice. The tragedy is that many Americans have begun to doubt the integrity and motivation behind this administrations decision to begin the war and their intelligence in it's execution. Life is Sacred - not a political football.

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A.J., Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:52:36 GMT

You make us ALL proud. Our prayers are with you, your family's, and your men. Thank you.

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Amy, Virginia Beach, VA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:54:13 GMT

I'm a military wife of 12 yrs, my husband is deployed over there now and it's the hardest thing I've ever had to deal with. I don't agree with this war and we should have never went over there. We found nothing over there when we did our inspections and our troops were sent over there on misinformation given to the President. I understand that we have to finish what we started but those people in that part of the country are always going to feel justified because they've been this way since "Bible Days". We cannot change their country, only they can change their country and the key is they have to want to. I want our soldiers to come home. This is to hard on our economy and this is hell on our families here at home. We have our own children and families to worry about over here. If we use our resources to keep our borders safe, keep illegals out of our country and start cracking down and staying consistant in our own country then we won't have to worry about another 9/11 happening. But we don't have enough resources on our own soil now because they are all in Iraq, Korea and Iran. We are strectching our soldiers thin, they can't take much more and it's only going to set us up for failure in the long run. Coming from a military wife I know my husband is proud for being over there and he stands tall and will do whatever is necessary but I don't want to loose my husband for something as senseless as this. If we protect our own here then no one can get to us to harm us here. But we continually poke our nose in our countries but don't take care of what we have going on here. There is no reason for anyone in this country to be homeless, hungry and to do without. It's a pure shame..... we need to bring our soldiers home. They all will be scarred for life after this and most of them will never be able to carry on a normal life again. Most soldiers come home and don't even get the proper care they need and most military families are living in poverity and barely can make it paycheck to paycheck. It's just so unfourtunate.......

Invisible sacrifices

John Kvocka, Queensbury, New York USA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:54:31 GMT

As the average American goes on with their daily lives, focused on the little and bigger things that trouble the routines and challenges they face, we often forget what is going on at this very moment, worlds away. The men and women of our armed forces and their families struggle and support each other with a love and courage that is without limit. Thank you all for your service to each other and to us. I pray for your safety and return home. May God Bless you all!

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JOHN D. MURLEY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:55:18 GMT

OUR MEN STAND READY ANYTIME ANYWHERE. THESE MEN ARE HEROS BECAUSE THEY DEFEND A BABY DEMOCRACY THAT IN YEARS TO COME WILL GROW AND BECOME A NATION. I AM PROUD TO SAY THAT OUR COUNTRY IS THE GREATEST ON EARTH AND WE WHO HAVE SERVED ARE BETTER PEOPLE FOR IT.

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Jane — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:55:34 GMT

Bravo to the troops and their dedicated leaders!!! What is even more heroic is that all these folks volunteered to go wherever they are sent - they were not drafted as in WWII. I wholeheartedly support them in the dangerous work they are doing and I firmly believe that their efforts will ultimately make a huge difference in our world. We may not realize it right now, but a strong republic in the Middle East will be great benefit to the entire world. It behooves those of us at home to give the troops our undying support and gratitude. They ARE making a difference!!!!!

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Cathy Wheat, Colorado Springs, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:07:43 GMT

My son just got back from Iraq and he is a Marine who I am so very proud of and all the solders for what they have given up to let us be free. I love you all.

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Dina Riffey, Fort Wayne, IN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:08:03 GMT

Being a new military Mom, these stories break my heart yet bring tears of pride to eyes. Your men (and women) are true heros and are the best of the best. I pray for all of your safe return and that this war will be over soon. God Bless..

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Dolores — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:08:36 GMT

God Bless all the soldiers who are fighting inIraq Doris Florida

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PAT, GREENWOOD, SOUTH CAROLINA USA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:08:53 GMT

I TOO WISH TO SAY TO THE AMERICAN SOLDIERS WHO ARE AND HAVE BEEN DEPLOITED NO MATTER WHAT BRANCH HOW VERY PROUD I AM OF YOU ALL I CANNOT EVEN BEGIN TO IMAGINE THE HORRORS YOU MUST ENCOUNTER AND NOT TO FORGET THOSE WHO ARE PREPARING TO DO THE SAME. AS YOU SACRIFICE MEERLY BY BEING AWAY FROM ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I CANNOT BEGIN TO SAY HOW MUCH I RESPECT AND APPRECIATE YOU ALL AS WELL AS YOUR FAMILIES WHO ALSO MUST SACRIFICE BY HAVING YOU GONE. I PRAY THAT OUR LEADERS WILL HAVE DIRECTION FROM GOD TO GIVE THEM THE WISDOM TO BRING THIS WAR TO AN END THAT WILL BRING ABOUT FREEDOM FOR ALL INVOLVED TO GOD'S GLORY. AND MAY I SAY THANK TO ALL AMERICAN SOLDIERS YOU ARE MY HERO.

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Barry Muldrey, New Orleans, Louisiana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:08:54 GMT

Thank God for all our marines, soldiers, service men and women who believe that America is worth their bravery and sacrificing! May God not let those in our government & media prevail, who believe that America is not worth the fight... who prefer surrender!

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Tom, Cayes, Haiti — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:09:09 GMT

To those who keep asking why these brave troops are serving in Iraq. Read carefully, they made a patriotic choice to raise their hand and swear an oath to faithfully protect the Constitution of the United States, to obey the orders of those above them. It seems many people in the U.S. don’t understand that kind of patriotism, or devotion to duty. I am very proud of our troops serving around the world. None of this should be about bashing President Bush, he was voted into office and is doing the best job any one could under these circumstances. Has he made mistakes, yes, and he admits that, (his predecessor made many more and wouldn’t admit it even under oath,) its called being human. Not one of us could please everyone in the country on this issue. The bottom line is we are in Iraq; our troops need our support to get the job done. Defeat is not an option! Extreme partisan politics is just plain wrong, no mater if you are Democrat or Republican. What happened to the unity we felt when the two towers fell? Not everyone like how Roosevelt handled WWII, or did they like Truman’s handling of Korea, or Kennedy’s handling of Cuba, but you didn’t see this kind of bitter, vile diatribe for the world to see. It emboldens the enemy, and yes the radical Islamic groups are our enemy. They would take away the liberals right to free speech, to live as you see fit and marry whomever or what ever you want. They are your enemy! Conservatives you already know they are your enemy; they will take your freedom of religion away. They want all to serve Allah and Mohamed; they are intolerant of the Christian and the Jew. America stand united again, because divided we will fall.

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Magna, Utah — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:09:29 GMT

When I think of the troops and their families....I think of 'The Greatest Generation' Its too bad that the liberal media at home seems to have such an influence on the citizens of this nation. Those men and women that are fighting for our freedoms and for us to feel safe on our own land and in our own homes, deserve the support of every red blooded american. Those who dont support them....please dont call yourself an american.

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djcercone — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:09:53 GMT

AS A PROUD VET, OLE PROUD VET 1959- 1963 AND A MEMBER OF 2 SQ. 14TH ARMORED CAVALRY, im so proud of todays soldier. They were so much better trained than us and when the Berlin got the fence in 61 we would have been run over if bad guys wanted. These are real soldiers, no draftees who hated army as most were, I was enlistee and proud as hese soldiers are, to be serving.

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Sal Gavaldon Albuquerque, NM 87105 — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:10:11 GMT

americans have to realize that this is what we do when we go to war "Take care of our own because its our job and we do it well" As a vietnam veteran that knows this war is wrong but as a true soldier we will always treat our war heros with the respect that they deserve and will pray every day for their safe return. Remember, not to forget them after they come home. Chava

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Keith Bailey, Greensboro, NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:10:14 GMT

Our thoughts and prayers are with every soldier, sailor, Marine and airman. May God watch over you and bring you home safely and soon. Thanks for sharing your story. You guys are my heroes. Thank-you. SSG Bailey, 312th EVAC Hosp. Desert Storm

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Floyd Smith, Plainwell, Michigan — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:17:19 GMT

I did not read all the comments or blogs, whatever, but I do have a comment, " When NO weapons of mass destruction was/were found, we (USA) should have pulled out ". With the technology we have I can only conclude WE (the people) was lied too, for whatever reason. (The hidden agenda)!

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JW (Bill) Caban — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:17:23 GMT

As a former Vietnam combat veteran I can appreciate the heroism of our young men and women. Do not abandon them by cutting and running. This causes greater mental stress than the actual combat experience. Support our troops and don,t make them feel that their efforts are useless. Thank you sooldiers for fighting for freedom for all.

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Colleen, Appleton, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:17:47 GMT

A simple thank you just doesn't seem adequate, may God bless all of the men and women in the military service, and God bless America! Thank you... without you, we wouldn't have the freedom we are all lucky to have here in America.

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Teresa, San Antonio , TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:17:47 GMT

America..this is not going to go away anytime soon. We need to be reminded daily of all the sacrifice our troops and their families are going through each and every day. Whether you support the war or not please support our troops and pray that they all will be returning home safe soon.

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David, Cheyenne, Wyoming — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:17:47 GMT

Our soldiers deserve so much more than the attention they are currently receiving. No one should question their bravery, integrity, intelligence, and work ethic. What I question is, why does our president feel that, after 4 years, Iraq is the best place to display our countries' character? How many of our good men and women are we willing to sacrifice to the terrorists that want us to keep giving them more of our people?

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Denise, Fitzgerald, GA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:18:00 GMT

Stay safe, gentlemen & ladies, praying for your safety and THANK YOU for doing your job. Whether everybody agrees or not, it's happening and all we can do from here is PRAY, PRAY, PRAY.

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dave ionno, hartford ct — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:18:10 GMT

I am a combat veteran of Viet Nam and an Army brat. I volonteered for Nam knowing nothing about the Vietnamnese or the history of their country. My brothers in arms in Iraq and Afghanistan are in the same situation. They have been lied to and decieved as has the American public. This is an illegal immoral war. They are not protecting us from terrorists nor protecting or defending the US constitution. You cannot kick down doors, kill women and children and maintain your humanity. We are all dying. Come home now and care for your own families instead of playing war as mercs.

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Cecilia McGinnis Orient, Iowa — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:18:19 GMT

Thank you for the sacrifice you & your men are doing & their families. Our son is also in Iraq, he to has been & seen the horror that the Iraq people do to one & another to prevent Peace. We must remember that this country the major of the people are poor and uneducated, they follow who ever to stay alive & to keep their families alive.They have fought with each other for years either with rocks & stick & now with guns & bombs. They have no qualms of killing the inacent.The scars of this bruality falls on the shoulders of our men & women who are there & witness these events, it will be forever burned in their minds for the rest of their lives.God Bless you & Your Band Of Brothers.

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Dara, American Canyon CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:19:06 GMT

I know you don't need to hear people saying we need to pull out, that they do not understand your mission. You understand and support means more than just saying "I support the troops." To truly support them, we must support all they do, and a simple look at history lets us know why. (I.e., If Russia had not stayed the course against Germay, we might be speaking German - we were pacifists ignoring the world before Japan bombed Pearl Harbor - we were not ready - and we need to be). Thank you and all the others for realizing what so many do not - we cannot keep or heads in the sand and think things will be ok. We need to fight for our lifestyle and try to help those trodden upon. God Bless you and keep you and your families. God bless this country and save it from those who have forgotten how we came to be and how we have managed to survive. Freedom is definitely not free, and is an on-going fight. God speed!

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Mike — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:32:47 GMT

I feel for this soldier, his family, and the position these unconcious leaders have put our Women/Men in. Wasting life for nothing! Killing Iraqis' for nothing!No American should be proud of this and every American should wake up and stand up to this disaster of a onesided war against a defenseless country. You call this country BRAVE for doing this to another country? Its got coward written all over it and I hope we can all wake up and get our Men/Women home and not waste one great life.

P.S. This is not about liberal or conservative its about doing whats right and just and being a human being and admitting when you $%#@&*- up!

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Dawn, Greeley, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:33:09 GMT

As a mother of a son & daughter-in-law, both serving in the Army, and both preparing for Iraq deployment, my thughts & prayers go out to all soldiers. Family support is vital. My son & wife are soldiers preparing to leave their soon to be born son with us. May God guide all of the leaders and may peace bring our loved ones home.

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Debbie Heber City, UT — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:33:38 GMT

Thank you for reminding me of what an honor it is to be a citizen of our country. Your bravery and honor reflects its foundation of freedom. May the Lord bless and keep you and all our soldiers and their families safe as we move forward with faith and love.

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Danny Backus ,Sheridan,Ar. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:34:09 GMT

I feel your Pain, and I know This is a Time to be Stronger than Ever, Pray to The Almighty God For Enduring Strength, GOD Bless The USA, The Lord Is With You Col. And Your Family, You Sir Will Endure. May God Bless and Keep You all...

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Colonel James D. Bogenrief, USAF (Ret), Monument CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:34:11 GMT

My sincere thanks go out to Lt Col Kuehl and all of our fine men and women who take on the challenge of the global war on terror. For the news media and politicians who try, on a daily basis to shape thoughts into negative support for the war on terror, you would have to fight this war in your own neighborhoods were it not for our fine men and women in uniform...I highly doubt that any of you would take up arms to defend our great nation. I personally thank each of our dedicated warriors and their families for their sacrifices for our safety.

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Linda Maguire — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:34:35 GMT

My husband is ex Army and we both ae proud to be Americans and pray for your safe return home everyday. You are the reason that we can sleep at night and you are protecting my grandchildren from future harm. God bless you and God Bless America.

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Delores, Beechmont, KY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:01 GMT

I want to thank all the fine men and women of the military for giving us freedom and for sacrificing their lives for us everyday. Thank you to all of the families of the military also. I hope and pray that we can resolve this problem and get our men and women back home safe. THANKS AGAIN!!!!

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Peter Sokol, Seabrook, New Hampshire — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:04 GMT

every man and woman over there...in the hell we created in Iraq are the most brave individuals this country has to offer any country that needs help. the sacrifices that they are willing to make for their country, families, me.......is humbling...I sit here with tears in my eyes...because they have been put in harms way by power hungry fools who care not what happens to them....but I do...very much..as much as I care for all of the men, woman, and children of Iraq who are suffering at the hands of the fools who run our country.......cruelty has a human heart...........I am ashamed to be a citizen of the world...and so ashamed to be an American living in a country that has not an ounce of decency by putting our soldiers and the people of Iraq into a hell hole

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Deidra, Convent, LA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:20 GMT

I love you all dearly. I thank you so very much for everything you do for our country. Thanks for your bravery and protection. I constantly pray for PEACE. Here, I live a normal life, but , not without praying for you all and thanking you all for your courage. You are true heros. God bless you all!

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Sola Babs, St George, Ut. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:22 GMT

It is not enough that we leave comments here on behalf of the incredible men and woman of America's military but we must support them by reminding ourselves that military operation ended long time ago as described below: “The military mission has long since been accomplished. The failure has been political. It has been policy. It has been presidential.” The LTC and his men will appreciate us more if we speak for them. This letter is not just a letter to his wife but rather a letter to you and me asking us to help. To the LTC and his men, God's Protection.

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Jayne — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:46 GMT

This is a prime example of why I am so darn proud to be an American. To all of our troops overseas as well as those in our homeland, we are proud of you and support you 100%. Thank you for all that you do!!!

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Penny Yazzie — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:49 GMT

My father was killed in WWII and my son has been in the Air Force for the past 24 years. The adage, those who do not remember the past are doomed to repeat it, is quite pertinent to me. We, as a nation, will forget this war and the sacrifices that are/were made by the military to do their jobs. We always do. It is as if once it is over, we no longer need to care. In your prayers at night, remember the soldiers who are fighting now and who have fought in the past. Remember too, their families who will hurt the rest of their natural lives at the loss of a loved one. Most of all, go up to and thank the military personnel for their service and your freedom.

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eddo, lawrence,kan. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:36:00 GMT

the current admin., just doesnt get it they have botched this up so badly, if you want a war then declare a war through an act of congress, then sell war bonds to finance your war. Gen. Shinseki told you what it would take to do the job and you blew him off now "mr. bush & company" look what you have done to our military and our country you have broken it and it will take forever to repair this mess!

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Richard West, Ogden, Utah — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:36:31 GMT

I just found out that a very good friend is on his way back to Bagdad for his 3rd tour. He and his colleages know the sacrifice it takes to go on tour and we as Americans should back them 100%. I for one am very proud of our troops and ask God to watch over them as they carry out their mission.

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Leon Campbell Falls City, Nebraska — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:36:39 GMT

May God bless each of you and keep you safe.We keep you all in our prayers.If we all look to God and ask him for his help and keep our faith, This war will be over.May God richly bless each of you.You all are truly HEROS.We also pray for our Leaders and hope someday they will get their heads screwed on right.

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Anny Tran, Pascagoula, MS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:36:44 GMT

I am not a fan of wars, but I know it must be fought in order to resolve conflicts. I'm so proud of our troops for going out there and risking their lives. I hope the war ends soon..and everyone will return safely! =] Bravo Kuehl!!

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John Manzione Jensen Beach Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:36:47 GMT

This is terrible and when he says HE put men in harm's way I cannot help but think of BUSH and CHENEY, men who know not what it is to serve. These men and women deserve honor and let's get them home and fast to avoid any more being killed by less intelligent and less brave self serving fools in Iraq. We do not belong there at all. Democracy? A joke in that part of the world. It does not work AT THIS TIME. We cannot wait there until it takes hold. It is not in our interests to do so. These boys need to come home.

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Manoj Pandya, Downers Grove Il — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:37:12 GMT

I hope our leaders-republicans & democrates-in Washington donot use the bravery of our braves to benifit their personal aspiration.

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Keith Alan Maupin, Visalia, Ca — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:37:47 GMT

I have so much respect for what these men are doing for the world and it really hits hard with the Maupin name popping up.

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Racheal, Devils Lake, North Dakota — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:37:53 GMT

thank you for printing this. these men and women are the most courageous of all americans i know. i am a mother of one that serviced there in iraq. i am also one of the fortunate ones who son came home in one piece. thank you with all my heart and these youg men and women are in my prayers each and every day.

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Ernesto Velez — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:03 GMT

The troops have to be pull out and come back home. We have to be smarter and end the industry of the war.

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Tammy Lewis Cedar City, Utah — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:03 GMT

my family thanks you with all our hearts. our children could not grow up as healthy independent adults without men and women like you. as for the families left behind to care for each other praying their loved ones return, you are the bravest soldiers of all. may god reach down from the heavens and wrap himself around each of you keeping you safe and warm until the day this is over. thank you soooo much for all that you do and sacrafice.

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Adam , Puyallup — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:21 GMT

Thanks to all who serve and have served. Your passion for your country and fellow soldiers and your willingness to risk everything to bring FREEDOM to nations who haven't the experience that we have here in this great nation. Thanks for all you do, and thank to the family members who have strength and support for there soldiers.

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Amanda, Oklahoma — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:29 GMT

We can not thank all of you enough for what you do, I have a son in Iraq and I am extremely proud of him. Thank you for sharing your letter, I have not heard from my son in about 3 weeks now it gets pretty tough sometimes.

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Carol Dorsey, Aiken, SC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:29 GMT

May God bless all of our service men and women who are putting their lives on the line every day for us. May they all be home safe soon.

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Claudia, Lebanon, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:47 GMT

Thank you so very much! We have not forgotten you, everyday you are in our prayers, thoughts and heart. My support is with you all. Know that you are appreciated beyond words and the hope and faith that you will return home safely very soon burns bright. God Bless.

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Pat, Coeur d' Alene Idaho — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:49:31 GMT

I could not be any prouder of these guys (our soldiers, Marines, Airman and Sailors) if I tried. A strong sense of pride becomes me, every time I read an account like this. Thank you so much for posting this article.

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Pat Andersen Middletown,CT — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:49:45 GMT

Thank you for sharing this poignant message with everyone.We should be proud of the men and women serving or have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.I cannot imagine what life is like for them on a daily basis or their families.Thank you all for keeping us safe ..God Bless America & All Our Soldiers....

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RUTH ABD JODY SYKES, BURLINGTON, NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:50:09 GMT

GOD BLESS THESE BRAVE MEN WHO ARE SERVING IN ALL AREAS OF THE WORLD FOR US HERE IN THE USA. WE PRAY THAT THE PEOPLE HERE WILL STOP COMPLAINING AND SUPPORT THESE BRAVE COURAGEOUS MEN DEFENDING US THERE INSTEAD OF HAVING TO DO IT HERE. WE PRAY FOR THEM DAILY. PLEASE THANK LTC KUEHL AND HIS MEN FOR THEIR SACRIFICES FOR US.

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Stephanie Samms, Casper, WY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:50:55 GMT

All I can say is that I am proud to be an American and humbled everyday by what our troops are doing for us. Let us never forget that these brave men and women VOLUNTEER to put their lives at risk for us and fight for what they believe in, so we can come in here and enjoy the free speech we take for granted. That is the ultimate sacrifice. God bless each and every one of them and their families. I can't think of anything else to say except 'Thank You.'

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Amanda, Indiana — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:51:04 GMT

We pray for all of you while deployed and once you return home. While we all might think that fighting is the hardest part we tend to forget about what life is like once your back in society. There should be more done for these troops one they come home. We are spending billions of $ for Iraq but how much goes for treatment of these men and women once they come home? Good luck and always remember you are a hero...

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jane weikel grandy,NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:51:29 GMT

Thanks Kuehl... Good letter and great reporting. I stand behind our troops all the way

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Stephanie Meyer, New Palestine, IN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:51:34 GMT

I am the mother of Lcpl. Ross E.Meyer-USMC he is currently serving his second tour in Iraq, only this time he is a squad leader, on March 17th his squad was attacked by sniper fire and one of my sons men was killed. He called the following week and told us the news, he and another Marine tried to save him but his injuries were too severe, he died in their arms. I know this is something my son will live with the rest of his life and as his mother I would do anything to take this pain away from him. Please don't forget our men and women still serving over there keep them all in prayer and support our troops

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Shellie Dog Eagle, Pierre, South Dakota — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:51:49 GMT

Wow! Incredible Story! My heart and prayers go out to all of you, for all you have done. I commend you all, for all you have done for each and every one of us, the sacrifices you and your families have to make to protect me and mine. There just isn't enough words to tell you how grateful we are. You will forever remain in our prayers. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!! God Bless You All!! Shellie

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Ken, Kansas City Missouri — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:51:50 GMT

As one that experienced the horrors of combat during Vietnam, and the first contact in the "World" was being asked how many babies I had killed. PLEASE don't let this happen to our boys and girls when they come home. Yes boys and girls, maybe if the old men fought the wars then wars would disappear. To all fighting my battles now, please take care and hope to see you soon.

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Ron Sobierajski St Marys Pa — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:52:30 GMT

I am a veteran. US Army. 1971-1973. Lucky enough not to have to Viet Nam. The Army in all their wisdom sent me to Korea instead. All the while I thanked God that I was there instead of the war. Even though I am a veteran I feel my time in the service pales in comparison to those who earned the CIB. Many times I wish I had gone to war and each time I think that, I wonder why. There is a comradery only the warfighters can claim. My wife and I are in constant contact with a Marine Sgt Major there for his second tour. We thank God every time we get a return email from him. We know he is safe for another day. I cannot express my feelings as to what we owe these people who fight everyday as though it was the norm. I've heard some say, No thanks are necessary, it's our job. Are you kidding me. Our Marine gave me a US flag that was flown over AL Asad air base. It is displayed with the greatest honor and pride. We pray for the safe return of all our troops everyday. Our great and glorious country can never expect to come close to giving these people what they truly deserve. When I see a Soldier, Marine, Sailor or Airman anywhere you can expect me to stop them and thank them for what they do. Give them all you have. They deserve it.

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Joe Leroux III — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:52:59 GMT

To the person from Denver, Colorado that is brave enough to express his/her feelings (thank one of those soldiers you think is stupid for that right, by the way) but was unwilling to put their name on their comment, I say this: They are not stupid, they are doing what many won't so that those same people can sit back at home and complain. Like you. Maybe not everyone over there is leaping tall buildings in a single bound. But they are over there doing the job they agreed to do. They took an oath and they are standing by that oath. That does not make them stupid. That makes them honorable. It is a shame when things like stop loss or stop movement or the lack of promised dwell time between deployments screw with these soldiers. But they still do what they have to do so you can sit back and take pot shots at them. And to Sujit, you are correct. Most often those that live by the sword do die by it, but it is so you can right what you wish with your pen.

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Sven Stevensen, Richland, Virginia, USA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:53:34 GMT

The soldiers aren't heroes because they aren't fighting for a valid cause. There's no WMDs and no honest reason to be there. We're not "spreading democracy", we're just causing more Iraqi deaths. Let's bring the troops home!

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Angela, West St. Paul, MN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:54:23 GMT

Simply amazing. What our soldiers are doing each and every day is simply amazing. Why their lives have taken such a heroic yet dangerous path we may never know. God only knows. What I do know is that I am forever greatful to them. I tuck my children into bed each night, and I am greatful. I wake up each morning to a new day, and I am greatful. Thanks for sharing your story. Gods blessing to you and yours.

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Cathleen Pedersen, Ellesnburg, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:54:52 GMT

The flags have been flying at half-staff in respect to those who lost their lives in the Virgina Tech shooting this past week. As grave as their loss is, I wonder why the flag does not fly at half-staff for those soldiers and their families who are giving our nation the ultimate sacrifice; their duty and lives for our freedom and protection. May all those who are serving and their families know that their duty and sacrifice is treasured, honored, and appreciated. Thank you. Our thoughts and prayers our with you all.

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James Pennington, Lexington, KY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:55:25 GMT

May God bless our men and women that are fighting all around the world for OUR freedom! My son is a US Marine and I am extremely proud of his service. After two tours in Iraq, he is ready and willing to go back. Further, he is probably going to make this his life's mission! Thank God for men and women who are willing to protect us! Thanks for the article and the awareness! Thanks to our troops! Shame on the cindy sheehans of this world!

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Cheryl C. Parente-Roggow, MI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:55:27 GMT

This letter is further proof that soldiers fight to protect each other and stand up for one another....it's not all about politics or beliefs..it is about friendship, loyalty and emotions for the people you serve with that are difficult to describe but noted in the song an American Soldier...very powerful "SFC Parente (retired)

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Kim Begue, Louisville, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:55:36 GMT

There is no greater love than a man lay down his life for a friend. I have a feeling that those who made negative remarks about our military members have never known true love or fellowship like these soldiers have. Let's just all remember "freedom is not free." May God bless and keep you. And let's remember, our soldiers go where the idiot politicians tell them to.

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Rena Guttrich, Grand Rapids MI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:55:49 GMT

As the leader of a military family support group here in West Michigan that sends decorated pillows to the troops and most importantly a mother of an Army Medic I see and hear from all our men and women in all services and in many countries. I see families on the roller coast of the highs and lows with one goal in mind and that is to be sure our troops are not forgotten and supported from back home. We are very proud of our troops and believe in them. Thank you for sharing your story with the rest of us and keep them coming it's good for the troops and their families.

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D.C., Casper, Wyoming — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:09:08 GMT

This article appeals to the heart strings. Very emotional, I suppose. But the big picture is that we need to stop this madness and not try to make it look like heros can be made out of stupid foreign policy.

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Larry Harrington Antioch California — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:10:16 GMT

Thanks to all our men and women for their sacrifice an God bless them all and their families. More of these letters need to be printed so others know what it's like.I know my oldest son is there now he's a 1st LT with the 9en 1 ID he's been wounded twice but wants to stay he's in Bagdad right now, again I'm every proud of all of them God bless and HoooooHaaaaa!

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Merri, Discovery Bay, Ca — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:10:28 GMT

Thank you for protecting our country and the way of life my children think comes naturally.

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John D Phila., PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:10:56 GMT

They need to place these horrific photos on the front page and not what's going on with Anna Nicole's baby and other nonsense. This is real world. These are the Real Heroes of the world. Bravery should be commented & rewarded, their families taken care of financially. Thank you and the quicker these photos become daily front page the quicker we get a resolution and the people's voice/cry's for an end are heard loud and clear! God speed to all of you heroes out there.

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Shannon Russell, Guysville, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:11:11 GMT

Thank you for sharing the letter with me. My husband is in the United States Marine Corps and he is going to Iraq in August of this year and it is nice to know that there will be heroic and brave soldiers to help keep him safe.. What would we be without or military? Thank you to all who serve or who have served,you are all appreciated greatly! May God protect all our men and women and to let them ALL COME HOME VERY SOON!

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Steve Lunsford, Coweta Oklahoma — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:11:34 GMT

Thank you so much for explaining what is really happening on a daily basis. Your letter really explains the hardships you have to endure everyday. I tell my family how proud of all the men & women fighting for our freedom. This letter sure put's it in perspective. I have a 19year old son that is leaning toward enlisting instead of college like his older brother. The comraderie that you feel everyday tugs at him very hard. God bless all our fighting people, & hope you come home safe & sound. Praying every minute for your saety. Best Regards (proud) Steve Lunsford, coweta Ok.

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Craig Feenan, Colfax, Washington — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:11:38 GMT

May God bless and take care of each of you. We can't thank you enough for what you are doing.

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Joseph Stern, Omaha, NE — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:11:55 GMT

AHH, another classic tale of american heroism and self-sacrifice. too bad their efforts are in vain and for a bad cause. i'm as red-white-and-blue as anyone and that's why i can't stand this contrived war on terror.

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Mike, SrA USAF — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:00 GMT

god bless....be strong Sir. and for godsake to not listen to those not supporting the war or you or your troops...

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jennifer spicer,Williamstown,Wva — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:06 GMT

God Bless each one of you who is serving to keep our country safe.Everyone of you are my heros.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.

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Marilyn Taylor, Tampa, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:16 GMT

That is why I pray for all the soilders every day and why I will fly my flag with honor ti'll they all come home. God Bless and keep our soilders safe.

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Kevin Pinkerton, Fort Laurderdale, FL. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:31 GMT

It really bothers me that people in this country have the complete lack of understanding of what a soldier is. A soldier is a is a tool that carries out assigments given by the american president, whitch is elected by the american people. The soldier wheather or not they agree with the assigment has to carry out that task to the best of their ability. This process has been going on for many generations, and has granted us the freedoms that we so much take for granted today. A persons righ to complain, like one blog by Sujit, that right has come at the expense of soldiers lives. That person in a sense has sacraficed soldiers lives to have that right. The other side of the soldier as a person, who has family just like you and me. They have a job to do, and due to a contract they honor, have to perform theig job to the best of their ability. They carry out mission after mission, not asking why, but knowing that they are defending every basic right every person should have, reguardless of nationality, race, color, or religon. That person is putting their life and the hopes and dreams of their childern, spouses, fathers, and mothers on the line every day. Reguardless of what a person thinks of the war in Irac, remember the people that are fighting, all of the uniforms are the same, but each one of them have a family at home hoping and praying that their loved one comes home. My wife and I served in the military with pride, we did not always agree with the missions we were sent on, but we were willing to make that sacarfice knowing that we were defending the rights that our families love, and are able to enjoy. Every soldier in the United Stated Armed Forces, and their families are in our thoughts and prayers daily. To all of the people that take and abuse the liberties that our soldiers past and present have fought and died for, think about all of the families that have lost their father, mother, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters, and think of what you will say if ever asked why you abuse and discrase our military men and women's memory.

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Andi, Edmond, Ok — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:34 GMT

Thank so much for telling us yet again what you live with on a daily basis. My ex-son-inlaw spent 16 months over there came back wounded the Army put him out on a medicial. Poor kid was a mess, got into drink & drugs ended the marriage, but he's clean & sober now and working on a real live. We love all our soliders in & out of harms way.

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Melinda Robinson Phoenix, AZ — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:40 GMT

I just want to say thanks to all the Men and Women serving over there. My husband is currently there and I was also deployed there myself. We may not all agree with the war but it is their jobs to fight this war. To everyone there keep you're heads up and come home safe to you're families. We are all praying for you're safe return. And to my husband Kenneth Robinson C Co 52nd Inf Reg, Ft Lewis, WA....I love you and hurry home to me and Izaiha...

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Henry, Virginia Beach, VA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:42 GMT

I am saddened by the fact that there are some people in this country that would take this story of Honor, Courage, and Commitment and twist it to and get on there own political soap boxes and compare what we are doing to what the Germans did in WWII as a previous entry had noted. As Navy officer and a citizen of this great nation, I am proud of those who serve and do what needs to be done to ensure victory, and sacrifice so much for the freedoms we enjoy at home. It is because of them that the "uniformed" are able to say whatever it is they want...Thank you for sharing your letter. Unfortunately, there are many more positive stories like this that do not get reported on. God Bless America!

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Donovan Fort Collins, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:48 GMT

Another generation of Americas' best, bravest and brightest used as cannon fodder by an arogant egomaniac with a personal agenda. I don't think anyone questions the bravery or loyalty of our troops. A soldier follows orders and it's not his job to question them. It's our job to question this administrations' course of action and make them understand they are supposed to represent the will of the people. Bring the troops home now, they deserve better from us.

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HAROLD ANGEL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:12:54 GMT

Richard Engel continues to try to find justification for this war when there is none. I'm sure there are a thousand stories like this going around on Al-Jazeera as well, equally moving and meaningful. This war is not for protecting americans, it is a war to protect zionists and oil. It was based on lies, perpetuated through lies and when atlast we accept that it is lost (too late, just like Vietnam), even more untruths will serve as excuses as to why we lost. Everything bad will always be the fault of everyone but us. I feel for this soldier and his family, but I cannot support this war and I cannot support what he is doing there. War is wrong unless there is an attack or a clear and present danger from the opponent. Here there was neither. There were only lies that many still cling to. The shame is everlastingly ours.

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Ron Osborne, Rockford, Illinois — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:13:05 GMT

Maybe if members of congress would read articles like this, there would be resolution to the financing of this war. Your are our angels and our warriors. Thank you so very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. As a veteran of Viet Nam, I understand the stress put upon you with the complacency of politics back home, but believe me, most of us wholly support you and appreciate you!!

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Barbara, Tampa, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:13:10 GMT

It breaks my heart to hear the words of some people who feel that the soldiers are fools for doing what they do. I wonder how these people would feel if they needed the protection of these men and women. These soldiers are fighting not just for the rights of the people of Irag and Afghanistan, but for our rights as well. The right for these people to say what they say without fear. Things would be different if the men and women who have fought in past wars had not done so. WWII soldiers fought for what they believed in and we should stop and think about what our lives would be like today if they had not done so and won the war. It's a tragedy that wars continue today, but if we didn't have our soldiers, where would we be. Freedom comes with a tragic price, but we remain free because of these men and women. I support them beyond belief and pray every day for their safe return and my heart goes out to those that have lost loved ones. I too have lost a loved one to war and I know how it feels, but that does not stop my support. God Bless America and our military.

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M. L. Artis Suffolk, VA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:36:46 GMT

I spent 6 months in Iraq with my naval reserve unit so i know how hard it can be for those you are putting their life on the line everyday while serving there. I keep praying for the safe return of all the brave servicemen and women.since I was there, it seem like things have become even worst. Keep your head down and hope that all goes well for you and you command.

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Lisa Kemplin, Phoenix, AZ — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:04 GMT

My thoughts and prayers are with you all, I pray for all of you everyday, hoping that this war will be over soon, to all the Fathers, Mothers, Sisters, Brothers please be careful and come home soon, Please take good care and come home safe....

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Dan Fazekas, DeKalb IL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:28 GMT

All I can possibly say to all the service men and women and their families is, I'm sorry you have to be there, and THANK YOU for showing that the Real Americans are different from the political Americans. May your faith remain strong, and may God bring you safely home.

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Michelle, Elmhurst, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:36 GMT

Thank you so much for publishing this letter. The men and women of our armed services deserve our gratitude, admiration and respect. We all need to continue to pray for them. Freedom isn't free and we need to remember that.

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Anna — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:36 GMT

The best way to "Support Our Troops" is to bring them home to their families and their loved ones. What is happening in Congress is the EPITOME of SUPPORT, not a neglect of the troops as Bush will spin it. Soldiers - I love you! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done in the name of "freedom". You deserve to come home, I am ashamed it has taken so long. Please stay strong.

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Bobby Tipping, Amarillo TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:41 GMT

In this world of give and take,there are not enough people that want to give what it takes. I think God for what you, and your men do for us. From a Vet

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Steven Rea, South Pasadena, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:37:55 GMT

As a former U.S. MARINE, I can say with experience that we have the best defenders in the world. Not just because of their training, but more because they are AMERICANS. This letter from Lt. Col. Dale Kuehl to his wife should be required reading in every high school history class as an example of what it takes to be free from hate, violence, & oppression. Heros one and all.

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Candace Steilacoom Washington — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:38:49 GMT

Commander, as an FRG Leader and the wife of a SGM who has done his tour over in Iraq and many other places. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the service and dedication that shows through your letter to your wife. I know that it must be so hard to deal with the things that you are dealing with daily, remember deep in your heart that there are those of us who understand and still support you. To your wife and all of your soldiers families, keep the homefires burning. Thank you for all that you all do.

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Al McCutchan, Seattle, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:49:53 GMT

And those conservative nuts continue to be clouded by delusions of grandeur. I support our troups in any real effort that they must make, but I do not support this illegal farce perpetrated on America by Pres. Bush and his criminal bunch.

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J. Porras Chatsworth, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:49:56 GMT

We think you of often and the sacrifices you soldiers make for your country. May God watch over you and keep you safe till you can again be with your families.

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Sheena Yelm, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:50:06 GMT

As the wife of a VA disabled veteran of Vietnam and the mother of a son who served in this war, I am very aware of the gravity of heroism of these soldiers. My heart aches daily for all who have lost loved ones. I am grateful that they are so willing to give of themselves for so many in other countries and in our great country. It seems that through the years the United States has stepped forward when other countries shrink to bring freedoms to those in need. Yes, it is a tragedy that so many lives are lost for the sake of freedom. That freedom was given to us by a Heavenly Father and is hard fought to preserve those freedoms. If this war was on our own grounds would we then realize why our soldiers go to fight in other lands. My husband, my son and the rest of my children and grandchildren understand the simple truths of Love and Sacrifice. God Bless you all. We Love You.

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Scott DeFazio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:50:07 GMT

All of you are a rare breed. Thanks to all of you who stand between us here at home and the enemy so near to you & your troops. Please know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. I pray for all of you to return home safely to your families. Our military men & women are the finest group in the world. God speed.

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Amanda Baker, Canton, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:50:26 GMT

There is not enough gratitude in words to say how much I apprieciate what the people in the military do for us. The good that they do is far too often overshadowed by the evil that they go through.

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Jeff Scholl, Ft. Worth, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:50:49 GMT

I admire these men and the job they do. They have accepted their mission and embraced it. But most of what they do is likely more for each other than simply believing in the mission. I served in the military for 9 years and would have given my life in service. But it wasn't the strategy for why I would have done it. It would have been primarily for the guys around me. I loved them and we were a family. This is how I see this situation. But this does not change the failed strategy of why they are there in the first place...the fact that this war was based on this administration intentionally misrepresenting facts. I support the troops and to me, the best way I can support them is to bring them home as quickly as possible. The war pundits can twist these stories any way they want, but the fact remains that as long as these men and women are over there, they are in harm's way...and the chance of them coming home healthy...or at all is directly impacted by how long they stay over there. I know what it's like to have pledged one's life and there are causes worthy to have done so. This simply isn't one of them.

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Beryl Driskill Steele Mo. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:50:50 GMT

May GOD protect all of you,and thank you. Ilost two brothers in Nam so i know what you guys are going thru. Beryl

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Linda Selnow, Morris Plains, New Jersey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:51:13 GMT

Thank you a million times over........There are no words that can even come close to expressing the appreication and repect we have for you. May God Bless you and keep you out of harms way.

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Neil K , Chicago , IL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:51:19 GMT

Stories like this are exactly why people like Nancy Pelosi , Barack Obama , and especially John Kerry and their ilk are so disgusting . Giving hope to Terrorists and insurgents in Iraq so reliably since the campaign of the last Presidential election . I'm a vet . Money is only a small portion of supporting our troops . Showing a solid wall of solidarity of purpose , reguardless of if we agree with the reasons we went to war is paramount . Fact is , we did it . We went to war . Anyone that says it wasnt due to 9/11 is just kidding themselves . WMDs had little to do with it. So , we are there . Realize it or not at the time , in doing so we took on the responsability of those people there . Shame on you Democrats . Someone earlier said this feels like Vietnam. Well thats because , similarly to the Vietnam era , there is little price paid for the war here on the home front . People arent making sacrifices as they had to during WWII . Such as rationed heating oil . Metal shortages . So on and so forth . So , its not felt . And people whine because they are tired of seeing Iraq on the news . Well , in many ways our soldiers are safer in Iraq than here . Heck , I believe more youths die of gunshot wounds a year here than our Military has lost in 4 years of war . Anyway , like I said earlier . We took on the responsability of Iraq . Its the people there that matter most . I believe thats what our soldiers are fighting for . Those people. They volunteered for that . If it was me , that would be my sole purpose . To help others . And so , I thank them deeply . They are the best of the best . Being ex-military , I understand the personal cost . Thats why winning is important . Losing a girl friend or an arm is one thing ... losing them for nothing .... ugh ... very different . Find a way to send a box of goodies to a soldier.

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Richard Reddington — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:09:01 GMT

Thank you GOD for these Brave Soldiers and the Sacrifices they and there families are making for my "FREEDOM" MAY GOD BLESS all of you BRAVE SOLDIERS and your FAMILIES

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Claudia Goodrich, Sweetwater, Texas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:09:04 GMT

My husband and I appreciate all you are doing over there. You are our heroes. We ask that the Lord put you under the protective promises of Psalm 91. May you all come home soon and be safe.

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CW4 Ronald Tyhurst Balad Iraq LSAA ANACONDA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:09:39 GMT

I am a Apache pilot stationed in Balad and theres nothing these guys like to see and hear is the sound and sight of us when we roll in on a TIC (troops in contact) it usually means that the shooting stops or is drawn away from the ground troops, so they can get out of the AO, but the sad thing is that we cant be every where at once. I do not envy them there job but i respect them and the job they do do. Keep up the good fight and know that you have friends in the skies and are only a call away.

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Dean Cullon, Lake Orion, Michigan — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:01 GMT

I have served in both Coast Guard and The Army; I respect your dedication and hard work. My prayers and thought are with you all and my regrets to my fallen brothers and sisters. God bless and have a safe return.

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Dean Cullon, Lake Orion, Michigan — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:02 GMT

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Scott Wells, Fayetteville, NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:03 GMT

This is what it means to be an american!! I applaud all the BRAVE MEN AMD WOMEN who are fighting the good fight in Irag and other "hot" areas all over the globe. I am a US ARMY VET and would give anything to be on the front line right now. I was given a medical discharge in 2003, and I miss the Army and those that I served with everyday!! God bless our troops and I hope they stay the course, they make me proud to be an AMERICAN!! Keep pushing LT.COL KUEHL and stay focused. We love and support you guys 110% AIRBORNE!!!!

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Amanda Robbins, Dubuque, Iowa — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:08 GMT

Well he does put them in harm's way. He has the choice. He could refuse. The only way this war will end is if soldiers refuse to do the the dirty work for bush and cheney.There is a time when you must make that decision and not just blindly follow orders like sheep. I'm not saying they are like Nazis, but the Nazi soldiers said that they were just following orders, and serving their country. People say well my job is to follow the commander in chief. Even if he's wrong? Even if he's lied to America and the world? You know what's really brave? Standing up and saying I will risk everything because this is what i believe. I will not be lied to, i will not be a pawn in your game. I will not blindly follow orders or give them. Maybe if enough soldiers had the guts to stand up, risk prison, dishonorable discharge, etc. and say NO MORE---THIS IS WRONG___ Then something would change in Iraq. You can't fight a war without soldiers. Oh and as far as bringing FREEDOM to Nations that have never known it---why don't we go spread freedom to Sudan, Or Rwanda, or Uganda, or Somalia?? They have been in trouble for a lot longer than Iraq has. It's propaganda. It's funny, i live in iowa, and if you recall, it's a red state. only thing is No one here wants to join the service. Just ask the recruiters out here. Their parents (who voted for bush) are the same ones who are saying, NO Johnny you can't join the Air Force (marines, army etc.) Go figure. You vote and let someone else die for your president's mistakes. (and the people who voted for HIM) Oh well at least Halliburton is making a killing (no pun intended) on the war. Most of the American people don't know the sacrifices that they are making over there, partly because Bush has made it impossible for the press to disclose pictures of flag draped coffins. That is the ultimate sacrifice and we aren't even allowed to acknowledge it, but every Sept. 11th we have a ceremony, we lay wreaths, we have moments of silence. Why not break into the network EVERY TIME a soldier is killed and have a moment of silence. We don't act like a country who is at war because we don't even acknowledge it and our president is still in denial.

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Jerry Holbert Milton, wv — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:39 GMT

May God Bless and Keep you and your guys in his will(i know he will). We are so proud of you all, and we believe in you. Love and Prayers to all you wonderful guys.

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Jared Jerotz, Los Angeles, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:10:45 GMT

Unfortunately, it appears to me that the masses simply do not take time to understand what is going on, in addition to the not taking the time to understand that there are thousands of brave individuals fighting for our freedom, our protection and our lives. They are fighting for us in order to provide us with the lives that we have today. They have spouses, children and families that fear for their lives, that pray everyday for their safe return. These brave souls are putting their own lives on the line to help others, in a foreign land, to help promote the freedoms that we take for granted. God bless you. Know that there are people that do think about you on a daily basis - numerous times today. Know that we understand that what you are doing is dangerous and we only wish the best for you and your family. Here's to your safety, your passion, your drive, your huge hearts. It may not mean much but thank you. Thank you for allowing us to share your thoughts and your story for this will be how the word spreads.

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R. Walker, Montreal, Canada — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:11:34 GMT

Thank you soooooo much for your sacrife....My son is now serving in Iraq (his second tour)....I am sooooo proud of him and all the men and women who serve with him...they are in my prayers daily!!!! It is so easy for people who can safely live their lives here in North America, to criticize and to be very opionated about the war.....but nonetheless, our soldiers (sons, daughters, dads, moms) are putting themselves in harm's way everyday....and they should have all our support!!! We're not crazy, nobody likes war.....but WE WILL SUPPORT OUR SOLDIERS WHILE AT WAR.....and have the freedom to share our opinions because of our military. God bless you all and keep you safe.

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Tom Rivera — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:42:28 GMT

Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you !

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james doyle,gary,in — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:42:41 GMT

lt. col, my heart and prayewrs to all of you. you are indeed the salt of the earth. this ex-paratrooper cries with you and hopoefully soon will laugh with you. may God hold you dear ooh rah! SDincerely jdoyle@tsdtransportation.com james doyle, gary,in

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Clyde Fuller, Halltown, MO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:03 GMT

How much more danger are these brave men and women facing, because of the political football that has been played with this war? Almost all of our elected leaders from both parties voted for it. Comments like Reid recently saying in public, that we have lost, gives great encouragement to the enemy and would have been considered an act of treason in 1943. Our prayers are with these brave troops. The country needs to be united behind them. If we don't win this one, America as we have known it, will soon be history.

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MARGUERITE WHITE — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:13 GMT

THANK YOU, THANK YOU THANKYOU AND YOUR MEN!! I HAVE NOTHING BUT RESPECT AND PRAYERS FOR YOU AND YOUR MEN. I LOVE OUR COUNTRY AND OUR FREEDOM. WE WOULD NOT HAVE IT EXCEPT FOR BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN LIKE YOU AND YOUR WONDERFUL BRAVE FAMILIES. I PRAY FOR ALL OF YOU TO BE SAFE. THANK YOU M. WHITE, ARK.

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Mike Hunt — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:16 GMT

Great story - really tells what happens on the front lines there in Iraq. Sad to say but there is no amount of dedicated troops or marines who will make a dent in this struggle. I would never say the effort is wasted but it sure looks like we're not getting the bang for our buck. Someone said that maybe the reason Saddam was such a despot is because his people can't get along with each other without extreme force. We 'should' have known better all along. Keep your head down, buddy. You're gonna be there awhile - not my choice, but I'm not "The Decider".

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Jarhead Colorado — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:17 GMT

People remember that our military is fighting the Islamic radicals in this world that have attacked our country since the 70's it's about time we did something. People say Iraq didn't attack us in Sep 11 2001, and your right but the Islamic radicals did so why not take the fight to them? If we leave Iraq then we will live in fear of being attacked. Just ask someone for Isreal what its like to live in constant fear of being attacked. So why not support our troops and the effort just like it was done during WW1, WW2,and Korea. By people in the U.S. not showing support you are encouraging the Islamic radicals to continue to fight. Its victory for them and more ammuntion for them to continue to recruit peole to support there effort when they see that our country is divided. Lets finish the job!!

Invisible sacrifices

Sharon Keddy, New Boston, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:29 GMT

God be with the Brave! It's true, we see nothing on the news here in the United States that seems "Positive" with anything OUR TROOPS DO...but if you pay attention...you will see that even the insurgents that are injured..get "Top-Notch Treatment" in our medical facilities in Iraq.....we are "Turning The Other Cheek" by not practicing the "In-Humane" treatments of enemies! Yet, here at HOME...we have OUR OWN "Turning Their Backs" on our Brave!! For Shame! Be thankful you don't have to worry about the vehicle next to you in traffic wondering if it has a bomb in it!!! Be thankful your children are safe enough to go the store! Be thankful you have a "Choice" whether you wish to practice your chosen religion! BE THANKFUL! I am not American by birth....but, I bleed Red, White, and Blue everytime I see or hear of our Brave!!!!!

Invisible sacrifices

Shermane K. Janning Burlington, KY 41005 — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:47 GMT

So Often as I read and speak about all that is happening to our troops, I realize more and more that All Too many civilians have no clues.We are all so caught up here in our Busy day to day lives, and unless you are directly affected as I am, my son SPF Christopher Hardman age 20 Army Ft Stewart,GA is serving his Second tour in Iraq.So many are totally unaware of the many physical and mental challenges are troops are faced with 24/7.Please keep up all the great efforts of notifications to our general public.God Bless All our troops and their families!!

Invisible sacrifices

Ann Tomah,WI. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:43:49 GMT

I can only think of two phrases to say. The first is ''Thank You'' to our soldiers! Next is to the families of those soldiers, we pray for a safe return for your loved ones and a Big thank you to you as well. You are the back bone and hope that these men and women carry around with them everyday they are there. If it weren't for you how could they face and get through the days and nights!! I can't imagine what the soldiers and families are going through as the war continues but want them to know that we care also and stand behind them 100%.

Invisible sacrifices

Mac Cavel, leesville LA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:44:00 GMT

as a RVN vet with two tours behind me you do not know how it feels to have a commander who actually is part of the fight. I saw my commander twice, when i reported and when i left. all other times he was observing at 3000 ft. what a difference.... Thank God for commanders like you.(CWO4, USA RET.)

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Lavis — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:53:01 GMT

I wish all the people in Washington would just realize we are Americans and these men and women have given so much to all of us. All the money they are raising to get into power is a mortell sin and should be given to our brave soldures instead of trying to beat each other. These men and women deserve everything we can give them for keeping us safe. Thank you all for keeping us that way.

Invisible sacrifices

J. Underwood, Beckley, West Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:53:02 GMT

I am so proud of the soldiers in Iraq and other places. You are right. Most people won't do what you guys and gals are doing. You are heroes to me. I pray that progress is made and you will be returning home soon.

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stephenie, new jersey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:53:10 GMT

what you and your families are enduring does not go unnoticed here. god bless you and your loved ones. thank you.

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Kimberly Martin Waukee, Iowa — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:53:40 GMT

From what little I hear from my 21 year old son, newly deployed April 7th to Iraq, regardless of why or how we got into this position in Iraq, everyone there has each other's back. Their units, they are family. From a mom who every day is scared for her son and his safety, I also couldn't be any prouder of him. For him and every other military personnel fighting for us, for Irag, for Afghanistan. For this country. For each other. God Bless each and every person in uniform. They deserve our utmost respect!

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Lisa, soldiers angel in Texas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:54:09 GMT

Thank God for our men and women in combat. Where would America be with out them. They are the very ones that keep it alive. Thank you for putting this where everyone could see it. Our Nation needs to see these letters and be able to understand what our soliders go through every day. I try to reach as many as I can to get more support, but can only do so much. I pray every day and night that they will all return home safely. I pray that SOMEONE in every state is trying to do something for our troops. Go Bless them all and thier families.

Invisible sacrifices

John Fenoglio, Florence, exas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:54:19 GMT

And our great Senate Majority Leader can stand up and say we have lost this war!!!! He shoul;d have to pay the price for aiding and abeting the enemy that make the lives of these brave men more dangerous. God bless these great guys and may the elections take care of the crap we must call leaders.

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Anne, Warren, RI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:54:27 GMT

I read this e-mail with a lump in my throat and tears streaming down my face. I am so sorry for Dale and all our incredible soldiers, these men and women are the BEST in the entire world. Though I do not have any family fighting, I think of all our service men and women as extended family and am so PROUD of each and everyone of them. I am praying daily for all of them and their families. May God bless all of you and bring you all home safely and very soon. You are all HEROES.

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Michael, Washington, DC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:54:33 GMT

Those of us against this war nonetheless have high respect for the warfighters and would do anything to bring them home safely, despite what the White House does. Our president has left us no way to share the sacrifice. Instead, he dispenses tax cuts and bottles up facts and opinions he doesn't like. He's the one that is endangering the troops, for no good reason. He promises a war without end.

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Greg, Lexington Park, MD — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:54:57 GMT

As a former sailor and now contractor, I thank you LTCol for everything you and the rest of the greatest fighting force in the WORLD are doing over there.

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Brian, San Antonio, Texas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:55:06 GMT

YOU CAN PAY RESPECT TO ALL SERVICEMEMBERS, PAST AND PRESENT, BY ENSURING YOUR CHILDREN AND OTHERS PAY RESPECT TO THE FLAG WHICH REPRESENTS THE SACRIFICES THAT HAVE BEEN MADE FOR THE FREEDOM OF ALL. THE RED STRIPES ON THE FLAG HAVE MORE MEANING THAN JUST A COLOR. SO THE NEXT TIME THE NATIONAL ANTHEM IS PLAYING TAKE OFF YOUR HAT, BE QUIET AND THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE BECAUSE OF THESE HEROES.

Invisible sacrifices

Lexington, SC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:56:05 GMT

I thank all the military for what they do. Their job is so important. I also thank the politicians. You know the ones who are confidant in our soldiers and their abilities. It's ashame that we have so many politicians that believe the way that they do. It is like saying termites will not invade my house if I just leave them along. It's what they do people! And to think the way to handle them is to wait until after they have moved into your house is ridiculous. It's too late, the damage is done. Evil can not let good along because of it's very nature. God bless you! What you do now is no less important than any other war or battle. America is a good place to live. We are not bad people and our God is great!

Invisible sacrifices

Nicole Payne, Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:56:13 GMT

Even though I can't imagine what it is like in Iraq or what our soldiers are really going through, I appreciate each and every one of them. God is watching and all of you women and men over there will be home soon. I love you guys and you are not forgotten.

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Javier Mercado Tracy Cali. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:56:19 GMT

THIS IS TO ALL THE ARMED FORCES "THANK YOU ALL" FOR WHAT YOU DO , SO ME AND MY FAMILY CAN HAVE OUR FREEDOM .I KNOW THIS IS HARD FOR YOU TO UNDERSTAND,I DON'T KNOW YOU BUT I LOVE YOU. MAKE IT HOME SAFE ,YOU ARE ALL IN OUR PRAYERS.IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRT AMEN

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Rev. Sam Renzi, Loma Linda, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:56:43 GMT

God bless each of our brave troops serving around the world! As a combat wounded veteran (medic) I can relate to what each one of you is going through. We don't know each other and will probably never meet (except in heaven), but I want you to know that you all are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. We wish you God's protection (Ps. 91) and pray for your safe and speedy return home to your family and friends and your church.

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Fritz Valme, Orlando, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:57:04 GMT

The issue with the war in Iraq is a complex one; at least how I understand it. On one hand we all, including myself empathize with the plight of our soldiers. Their bravery and heroism are not in question. Much cannot be said of the administration that put our soldiers and ten's of thousands of innocent Iranian's in peril. The "war" was without question unjustified. There were no WMD'S. It might interest some to know that it was Osama Bin Laden a former associate of George W. Bush that masterminded 911 attacks, not Saddam Hussein as we were led to believe. Afghanistan, not Iran was and is the haven for the Taliban. Afghanistan recently signed a treaty with the Taliban. Yet Afghanistan is our ally. Withdrawing from Iraq, stepping up our efforts to bring Osama to justice, and reaching a diplomatic accord with the Middle East is not a poor reflection of the merits of the men and women who have fought and died to bring freedom to the Iraqi's. Nor are any actions, other than “stay the present course” a repudiation of those men or women, the countless lives lost, or should withdrawal be misconstrued as emboldening the insurgency. The fact of the matter our presence and position in the Middle East runs contrary to logic. We support Israel in the oppression of the Palestine. We purport to have invaded Iraq to bring about freedoms to the Iraqi’s, but hundred’s of thousands died and continue to die in the Congo, yet we cannot intervene, sovereignty, etc. We won’t openly communicate with states such as Iran because of their support of terrorism. But we have treaties with Afghanistan and Pakistan whom both harbor the Taliban. Correct me if I’m wrong. Is this not hypocrisy at it’s truest? Make no mistake, our unilateral, biased and disingenuous policies in the region and the world throughout, Vice President Chaney’s connection to Halliburton, the question of sweetheart deals, the question of oil revenues and so forth are what have inflamed the conflict in the region. Keep in mind, much of the world, including most moderate Arab States supported us prior to our invasion of Iraq and subsequent mishandling of the Iraqi War. Lastly, it is not the troops whom we all do not support. Their valor is not at issue, the legitimacy of a foreign policy that would send young Americans to die for all of the wrong reasons. Democracy in of itself is not a wrong reason. Imposing democratic values on those not yet ready is. Let’s not forget Democracy was not given to us here in the US. It was hard fought. True Democracy is not a gift, nor is it imposed. It is earned.

Invisible sacrifices

helicopter pilot — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:57:18 GMT

I have seen the war firsthand. As a helicopter pilot in the Army, I saw just about everything in Afghanistan. I have been in firefights and have flown medevac missions. But above all, I have seen the sacrifices of our finest. These sacrifices must not go to waste. We must remain in these countries to stabilize them and help them prevail. Islamic facism is real and continues to plague these nations. I have seen the atrocities of the Taliban and I wonder why the news media doesn't show the public these things. Please don't forget our troops. Show your support whenever and wherever you can America.

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Kandie, Centerton, Arkansas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:57:47 GMT

GOD BLESS ALL OF OUR TROOPS AND THEIR FAMILIES. IT IS GOOD TO KNOW WE HAVE SOME MEDIA (ALTHOUGH VERY FEW) WHO ARE ABLE TO SEE THROUGH VIOLENCE AND BRING US A PIECE OF GOOD IN THIS AWFUL WAR. OUR TROOPS ARE VERY HEROIC AND I FOR ONE LEND THEM MY FULL SUPPORT. WE LOVE YOU GUYS AND ARE SO VERY PROUD OF YOU. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU AND YOUR VERY BRAVE FAMILIES AND MAY YOU RETURN HOME SAFE AND SOUND.

Invisible sacrifices

Irwin Morris Deerfield Illinois — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:58:05 GMT

Dale, The actions of you and your men exemplify what it is to be an American. Too often all we hear about is the "UGLY American" Well from my way of thinking there are no ugly American's only a nation of people who care about the right of our people and also the rights of others less fortunate in the world.If only the rest of the world would stop trying to kill those who want freedom What a better place to live this would be for everyone. You and your men are this countries best diplomats. You show that we are there to help those in need and you also show that we will not tollerate those people who wish to harm the less fortunate and those who are forced to comply or die to the way of their leader dictators. We all sleep better at night knwing that you are there to keep the peace and stop the threat of terrorism that threatens our very existance. It is a shame that everyone does not see it this way. If you were not in Iraq and Sadam were still in power his finaticism would have led to attacks of our allies and attacks on our soil. You and your men are all that stands between that and our peace. God Bless.

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Andrea, Denver, CO — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:58:10 GMT

Thank you to all the women and men that SERVE in our military. Your choice to commit yourselves, your time and your lives to our freedoms is what makes it possible for everybody to speak their opinions here today. We as Americans need to seek the truth. Jesus says "I am the way, the truth and the life". The Truth will set us free.

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John Roberts — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:58:13 GMT

Genuinely good folks don't invade or occupy other folks' countries. Heroes go to jail instead of fighting illegal wars. Sigh... Here are some inspirational messages: "Blessed are the Peacemakers, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." "Thou Shalt Not Kill." "Turn the other cheek."

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Richard Spurtz — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:58:34 GMT

Alexander Clayton from Washington, D.C., you should be ashamed of yourself. "Sappy patriotism"? Where was your outrage when your (obvious) hero President Clinton was bombing Serbia-Croatia back into the stone age?

Invisible sacrifices

Paula Flaherty, Stoughton, MA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:58:54 GMT

I recall that when the Iraq war began, a time that seems so far away, a group of people where I worked got together to send "CARE Packages" to the husband of a friend of someone in my family. We had his "address" so that we could direct our packages to him and his group, because we had been told that otherwise, stuff just gets sent out without any real direction. Anyway, we used to send things like wipes, bug spray, all kinds of stuff that they apparently needed then. Hearing about this poor group of soldiers living in filthy and inhuman conditions, I'd like to be able to send some supplies to them or to others in similar situations. These poor soldiers are out there every day, not knowing if they'll make it through another day, and it just seems like a little bit of "civilization" might be welcome. Is there any website that would have names or locations or something that could direct packages to soldiers in these deplorable conditions? Obviously the Defense Dept. hasn't done much to help them be a little more comfortable.

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Ethan, Orlando, FL — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:59:13 GMT

Great to hear what this hero has to say. I wish the media could focus more on the bravery and mission rather than dividing us at home. God bless everyone in the military.

Invisible sacrifices

Kathy, Puyallup, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:59:18 GMT

Thank you brave and strong men and women. You are appreciated more than any words could express. Our family prays for your safety and families.

Invisible sacrifices

Muslim — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:59:23 GMT

Dear who invited you in Iraq. You are there to conquer them. While conquering the innocent people one has to face the troubles. Imagine the troubles of the nation where you people fire on innocent peoples. You people kill one hundred for one casualty. and 90 of them harmless citizens. What makes you to stay there. First there was only on Alqaida base in the world i.e Afghanistan. Now think how you people helped to grow the terrorism in the world. You are there for Oil and not for humanity. Humanity would always be ashamed of you for killing civilians.

Invisible sacrifices

Carl Pletenyik, Ewing Twp., New Jersey — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:59:39 GMT

I enlisted in the US Army on 14AUG1968 and was honorably discharged on 01AUG1974. MOS: 11B10, rank at discharge SP4. My immediate reaction to the heroism of Light Colonel Kuehl and his squad can only be expressed in military terms: HAND SALUTE, READY FRONT. LTC Kuehl's account of being attacked, attending to wounded, defending a position, and staying in the fight undaunted by the enormous dangers that surrounded him and the brave men in his command are but one day in their lives that must be repeated over and over again during their respective tours of duty. It would drive most men and women nuts after just a couple of firefights. Like in Vietnam, this war has similarities, who is our enemy, hands tied behind our backs in trying to fight them, politics, the list goes on. I cannot express in words what the Colonel and his soldiers went through that day. It must be experienced, but is it something so special, something that drives one on to do it again, and oh yes, the commraderie of one another, that is the key, nobody is left behind and everyone is watching each others back. Every man and woman who has ever served has known a LTC Kuehl. They are the really special ones whose leadership is so tremendous that like the SGT in his command, would take a bullet for him. It is love and respect. Our great nation should be so proud to have such people as the colonel and his soldiers in such a volatile and dangerous part of the world. And to any naysayer of any of this, i say you are not a patriot and not worthy of the freedoms we enjoy in the USA at the expense of the blood of our brave soldiers, men and women alike who served before to allow such freedoms to exist. Colonel, i do not know you personally, but i know you militarily and i love you.

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Alexander Cibenko Phila PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:00:06 GMT

Men and Women, God bless you and protect you for your sacrifice and service to not only our country but for doing the right thing and countining to do the right thing. Somewhere in Holy scripture is says.. (in my words)"DO NOT GROW TRIED OF DOING WHAT IS RIGHT" In these times and in this world where confusion seems to reign, (where right is wrong and wrong is right)...follow your hearts and do what you know to be true. God Bless you and protect you.

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Steve Hamilton — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:00:30 GMT

This letter home needs to be posted everywhere in America and the world! Our fighting men are still the best. The land of the free and the home of the very, very brave! I just stopped my day to pray for these guys.

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Karon Hanushek, Sulphur Springs, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:00:45 GMT

For those that think this war is all about oil, how do they explain the fact that there have been no more "911's"? The military do not get enough credit, especially from those who bash their mission while claiming to support them.

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J Coffin, Schenectady, New York — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:00:52 GMT

I am grateful for the sacrifices you young men and women make for us on a daily basis. My grandfather fought in world war I, my father in world war II. My brother in Vietnam, and my nephew in Dessert storm. So I can appreciate the sacrifices you do make. I have seen first hand how war and destruction can change a person forever, and I am truly grateful to all of the young men and women who fight this senseless war.

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cher ballinger, albany, OR — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:09:27 GMT

my dear LT COL KUEHL, I also have a son serving over there. and these stories just make me cry. I worry all the time about my boy who believes in what he is doing for his country. I believe in him. and I am so proud of him. so my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family and pray for all to come home soon. maybe when the big boys stop playing at war and with our boys lives then we can get them home and u to ur family. thank you so very much for being there for our guys, and for sharing ur story with all of us. and many God's blessings

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Rob, Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:09:54 GMT

Armies fight for their country ... but soldiers fight for their friends ... These brave young men don't have the luxury of debating why they are in Iraq or Afghanistan. They do not have time to reflect on a better course of action. They can only follow orders and do their best to keep their buddies and themselves from dying. It is on those of us back here to make sure that the reasons we send these men and woman to shed blood are just and the incredible sacrifice of them and their families worthwhile. I submit that there are no Americans here, republican or democrat or independent who does not sympathise with our fighting men and women and wish them the grace and protection of God, and reasonable people may disagree. But let us never lose sight of the fact that it is our duty to debate any conflict involving our soldiers. It is our duty to restrain our leaders from burdening our military with such sacrifice unless and ONLY unless there is no other forseeable course. I am proud of these soldiers and their families - and hope fervently that a course can be set that see's their goals achieved, their lives appreciated, their health ensured, and their families reconnected to their loved ones.

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Phil Richards, Stayton, Or — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:10:35 GMT

My prayers daily for all troops, from this Vet to all others, no matter where you are or what you do, you are important to all of us and we are proud of your service. Phil Richards 'Nam vet '68-'69 Stay safe and be proud.

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Paul Grogan, Northridge, California — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:10:54 GMT

Thank you! Thank you, for being a better man than I. Thank you, for your service to our Country. Thank you, for making my Son and Daughters world safer. Thank you, to your family for their sacrifice too. Thank you.

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Priscilla C. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:11:53 GMT

It breaks my heart that you guys have to be there fighting for us! I hope for your safe return and safety everyday. Thank you for sharing this story with us, because it helps us realize that this is still going on everyday and that people need to realize the intensity of it. Since it is not in our face everyday people seem to forget about you guys. The ones who are protecting us! Thank you so much for everything!

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mary shelley — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:12:03 GMT

We lost or nephew to an IED in October, David Unger.. God bless and protect you for all you do. Thank you with all my heart.

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Stv=eve — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:12:22 GMT

Mr Velez does not seem to understand what is to fight for your country. As a 24 year veteran of the US Air Force, I am pround to call these young soliders my countrymen. May God Bless you all.

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Phil, san Diego — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:11 GMT

As a U.S. Army Viet Nam Vet I our support our troops 100%. But, not our politicians and particularly George (the liar) Bush. Bring our troops home. Let the Iraqi people have a civil war and decide how they want to run the country. We are not the police of the world. If we are threatened or attacked then we need to go and destroy them completely. Iraq is another Viet Nam. We left the people of South Viet Nam to be murdered by the North Viet Nam Communists when we abandoned them in 1975. What we should have done was wipe out North Viet Nam in a few months instead of spending 10 years and losing 60,000 American lives in that place. I am still pissed off 40 years after being discharged. Remember people what politics means. Poly=many Tics=blood suckers. Thats what they are "MANY BLOOD SUCKERS."

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M.Rettmann chanute,Kansas — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:20 GMT

May God bless each and every soldier, expecially those in Iraq right now. Most of all our son Jon E.Rettmann who is serving there right as we speak. We can not really understand what is going on in the war,just what we see and here.We here at home will never understand,but we can always be here for each and every one of our courageous soldiers. God bless you all. m.rettmann

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Kathy, Divide, Colorado — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:22 GMT

God Bless all of our service men and women. I pray for you all the time that you are safe and home very soon. Thank you for protecting our country so well.

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Tony Placella, Houston, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:22 GMT

I commend all of our soldiers & their families who give their lives for our country! It is with heartfelt graditute and pride that I can wake up every morning in a FREE country. Whether right or wrong, you soldiers are all heros and deserve the utmost respect and support from those who you protect, US! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! and may God bless all of you and your families for the sacrifices you are making, I admire and commend you all!

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Boris Kuperman — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:29 GMT

It is amazing to see such an enormous outpouring of support towards our heroes. Yet, as I read through the numerous stories of the financial struggles, of so many of our military families, I begin to doubt the sincerity of such statements. When our soldiers come home, they are not offered $15-$20/hr employment with training; $10 an hour is all that so many are able to get. 40,000 of injured soldiers from Iraq – many of whom have severe permanent injuries - and we do not hear demands to increase the taxes and the budget to improve the medical and financial assistance for OUR HEROES. No, - there is very little sincerity in our support. It is so easy to thank these honorable souls for doing their jobs, - we don’t have to do anything else; but may be we should? That would be a real support!

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Ron Chalmers, Baltimore, MD — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:16:52 GMT

The men and women representing this country in Iraq and elsewhere around the world are the finest that this country could possibly have representing it. It is an heroic thing just to be there and their actions make it doubly so. I salute them.

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MANDY, MCCOMB, MISSISSIPPI — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:17:00 GMT

Just like to thank all of our guys and gals for a job well done.....continue the good work.. We are so proud of each one of you....To the families, I know it is very lonely....(my husband returned home last year)just remember that every day is a day closer to homecoming.....GOD Bless You All!!!!!!STAND TALL AND STAND PROUD!!!!!!

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lori — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:17:10 GMT

My nephew is overseas, I miss him a great deal. Thank you for sharing that,

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Dianna Taylor — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:17:32 GMT

My heart goes out to each and everyone of you over there fighting for me. My husband is retired Air force and he was over there twice. I know that if you were not there I could do the things I do and be safe while doing them. It is because you keep me safe that I can live my life in the manner we, Americans feel is right. May God bless you all and come home soon. We need you here too.

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Ron Chalmers, Baltimore, MD — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:17:44 GMT

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Caitlin Whittington, Terre Haute, IN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:03 GMT

Thank you, Thank you, Thanks you for all your service, bravery, heroics, courage, dedication, and heart to serve our country. I am a college student in Indiana who is part of a generation experiencing their first war. I am proud to have the freedoms I do because of men and women who serve and fight for my country. I thank God for each and every one of you who have the strength to protect America. Thank you so much and may my prayers reach your hearts and your families. Stay strong in what you are fighting for and may the Lord bring peace. God Bless.

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Kathy Knight, AZ — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:07 GMT

Thank you is not enough! We need to support you and your men, as well as provide for you! Without you and other's like you the USA would be over run with zealots, and war in our home land!

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Dirk Rice, McKinney, TX — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:22 GMT

My grateful prayers go out to the Lt Col, and all American warriors, for their safekeeping. To our soldiers: Ignore the vast minority of self-satisfied posters who pretend to know what the war is all about, and/or those who denigrate the service that you heroes perform. I feel safer because of your efforts, and my children will honor your deeds as I do. God Bless.

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Tina TenEyck, Plattekill, New York — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:26 GMT

Thank You for sharing this letter, I support our troops at all cost. Our men and women are their because they love this country and want to keep this land safe. The soldiers are paying the price for my freedom with their blood and lives ( Freedom is not Free). I thank every man and women who has ever served in the armed forces and wish all of you to be returned home safely with your love ones very soon. God Bless

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Courtney Douglas, Memphis, TN — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:29 GMT

This is not an invisible sacrifice. We ALL know what GREAT heros you guys are, I just wish the media would air more of these stories than the horror stories. My husband is a Soldier in the US Army, and he would like to do nothing more than fight for OUR country. God Bless our Troops and our Country.

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John Metcalf, Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:42 GMT

This was truly an inspiring message. "Band of Brothers" is what makes the military a truly amazing group of dedicated men and women. Words cannot express our gratitude and support for our brave soldiers. I wish you well and God speed!

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Shannon, Maryland — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:22:53 GMT

These soldiers fight for me, they risk their lives for my family, they do a job that not many of us are prepared to do. For that I say THANK YOU! People often that their is someone out there who fights for their freedom, someone who dies for them, someone who tries for them. These are our soldiers. More importantly these are our Fathers, Sons, Brothers, Mothers, Sisters, Daughters, Lovers and Friends.

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LmR, Billings, MT — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:23:37 GMT

Thank you for posting this. However why give out specifics about where this men are 'living'. As a former active duty Marine, and now wife of one, I know that one should never, EVER give out the position of out troops. I thought reporters would've learned as much, especially since being embedded with them.

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Sam O'Neill, Chicago — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:23:47 GMT

"What you do for these Soldiers, their families, and me is so important." That is why we are trying to end this war and bring you home where you belong. "They are the salt of the earth...doing what most in this country are not willing to do." A lot of people are willing to do what is actually worth doing. The Iraq war was never a good idea (the exact opposite) and therefore not worth anything. "Most of the country does not understand the sacrifices that Soldiers are making every day. Likewise they do not understand the stress it puts on our families." Though we are not on the front lines, I think we have a pretty good idea of the sacrifice and suffering being endured. Again, it's way past time to end this tragic mistake and leave the Iraqis to sort it out for themselves. They are going to do that sooner or later no matter how long the US sticks around... which won't be forever.

Invisible sacrifices

Peter Minoc, San Jose, Ca — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:23:55 GMT

Leave it to a "patriotic liberal" to have the good taste of discounting and insulting our soldiers. The American soldier is the most restrained professional soldier on the planet. The crap they have to put up with you couldn't handle for 10 minutes Mr Roberts. From stupid ROE's to the fact they half of the country can't even put aside their political differences to win a "war". Lt Col Dale Kuehl you and your soldiers are heroes to me and my family. Thank you for all your sacrifices. God Bless

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Theodore Watters — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:24:19 GMT

Please let us get our troops out of harms way. God has blessed this nation as the strongest on earth lets not have a tyrant wasting our blessings God Bless America

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Joe Orlandi, Smethport, PA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:24:29 GMT

Lt Col Kuehl, his men and women are to be commended. There never has been any question about the bravery of our all vollenteer services. All americans should be extremely proud of them. But our government leadership has again put our troops in harms way with its line in the sand mentallity as they did in Korea, Viet Nam, and know in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our troops are asked to fight to this line in the sand and stop. When our troops are put in this position there is no way for a win in a civil war where the people have no idea what freedom is all about. In this situation our troops are forced to fight to save each other and little more.

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Jesse Salazer 112 Buena Vista pl. Taft , Ca 93268 — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:24:41 GMT

When I think of the Troops in Iraq . and hear the stories on the news and thier deaths . it hurts me vary much . I was a soldier and I lost my Brother to war also . so it drives home the pain they feel . and being so far from home .God Bless and come home Soon...

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Mike, Indio, CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:24:46 GMT

Damn skippy! CAV all the way hooahh!!!! As a old CAV medic myself, I can honestly say you will find the best this country has to offer where the rubber meets the road. I recently ETS'd myself after 14 years and am a high school history teacher and as I love to remind my students every chance I get that the heroes of our world aren't necessarily found in our school textbooks but in the heroic men and women who do an impossible job every single day simple for love of our great country. Ladies and gentlemen, that's what a hero really is!

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George, Midvale, Utah — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:24:53 GMT

To the United States Military. I know that you are all human beings, some great and some not quite so great but all members of the most outstanding military of all time. I picture you all standing tall with the morning sun at your back. There is more to this picture as down in the shadows is everyone of our self designated patriots supporting our troops in their own way. Careful folks, too much support might spoil them. Down there with them are all of the patriotic congressmen trying mightily to pull the Commander in Chief down to their level. Hard pull. Of course the MSM is also there pushing their brand of truth. There again we have strayed from the meaning of the word. You in the military have my full support and my greatest wish is that on your return home the entire country will rally to your support. I am sure that you will not be the ones to run up the white flag. I do know who will and they will still be loudly proclaiming their patriotism and backing of the troops, Sorry folks, I have my own definitions and you do not qualify.

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Ronnie Scales, Santa Fe, Tx. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:25:09 GMT

Hearing this sure makes you feel proud to be an AMERICAN! I pray for all of our men and women that are standing in harms way for the freedom not only for us as AMERICANS, but for the freedom of others. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for a friend! This is why America is the best country in the world...because we care. God Bless America and God bless our service men and women!

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Chad, MI (USMC Veteran) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:26:53 GMT

I'd like to say Thank You. Thank You for your sacrifices, thank you for your bravery, and most of all thank you for your courage. My family and I will continue to pray for each and every one you to return home safe and free from harm. I don't support the government decisions, but I will support our troops. BE SAFE, BE SMART, AND COME HOME SOON!

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Nicole Coniglio, Cortland, New York — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:40:14 GMT

I think whether we support the war or not we should all stand by our soldiers, they protect our every right.My husband is a soldier w/ the 10th mountain division. It's very hard on our family but I hold him up high, the trials we face here everyday are only minimal compared to what they face daily.I am so proud of our soldiers, they've done what no other has over and over,everytime becoming an even higher statistic of not returning home to family and friends, but they still do it knowing the sacrifices...thats what I call men!

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Paul Fennimore - North Lauderdale Florida — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:41:45 GMT

Former Sp/4 Asian Theater 1963-65 I can understand why soldiers in combat believe they are alone except for members of there unit who become brothers - oil, not being the only reason we are in the Mid East today but certainly is one of them. I'm including in this note an e-mail address which I encourage every one of you to go to and read about an existing technology that is today operational and proven - it's 21st century technology but trust me it's been around for a long time kept under wraps - it will in a very short time render a-rab oil "obsolete". Professor John Searle an englishman in his late 70's had been kept under wraps for years (decades) with his invention and only now has been allowed to come to us with his invention of free energy - You will all soon start hearing about it but I'm going to give you a jump start on it - go to this site and you will actually see working models of this technology - this type of energy will most certainly take out of the equation of war (oil). Truly amazing tech coming our way. www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8qvSNki9M We only get one life, you are about to enter a new age with this type of tech and what's truly great about this is it will not destroy lives, as a matter of fact it will help us all take a giant step towards peace upon our world.

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Carol Colao Ellwood City, Pa. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:41:56 GMT

God Bless our Troops and their Families. The sacrifices they have to make are incredible. Thanks to each and every one of you!!!! May God bring you all safely home soon!!

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Steve, Mechanicsburg, Pa. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:42:22 GMT

To all of our military, God bless you and thank you for giving me the opportunity to sit here and type this note without fear for me or my family. There aren't enough ways to say thank you.

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Cindy,Oceanside,California — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:42:46 GMT

We love all those guys so much. My dad is a 26 year Marine Corp veteran, so I grew up knowing the drill. It is so hard to explain to those that don't understand. So many of us think of you guys every day and pray for your safety.

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Tony, Los Angeles CA. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:43:27 GMT

Heroes are the men & women who are serving in our armies to give us freedom. My prayer's are with you all.

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Jeanne Barnwell, Brasstown, NC — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:43:34 GMT

Thank you, Lt Col and your family - the ones here and in Iraq - for they are family,too. My MP daughter Kim is states-side now without physical injury but still "fights the war". I am proud of her yet hope she does not have to go back. God bless and heal you and keep you and your men safe. I know prayer works.

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R. Wilson — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:55:58 GMT

It saddens me to think that all these brave soldiers are dying, and getting injuries for another country and not there own. This war will not stop terrorists. It has only created more of them. These soldiers SHOULD NOT be in Iraq, they should be scouring the mountains in Afghanistan. Finding and eliminating Osama Bin Laden would do more for the war on terror, and would have much more support than this war has.

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iceman, lakewood, Co — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:56:29 GMT

I truly feel it’s a shame that our nation's men and women risk their life everyday on the battlefields in the Middle East without receiving the proper recognition. The news media in its attempt to cover the negative side of war constantly cast a shadow over the heroic deeds of many of our soldiers. Soldiers fight for our country, but most of all they fight for each other. The bonds they form together are invisible and look pass race, religion and gender. We could all learn a lesson from the bravery and values these soldiers display everyday. Maybe this is a good time for us to better our lives in America by adapting the outstanding traits and principles that our soldiers live by everyday in Iraq/Afghanistan.

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Bonnie Holbrook, San Marcos, Calif. — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:56:46 GMT

May God Bless all of our Service Men and Women who have sacraficed their lives for us each and every day. I am truly honored and proud of all of you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you do for the people of the United States and all of the World.

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David Mwangi, Beaumont CA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:56:57 GMT

Thanks to all Americans that believe in us as Soldiers. It means a great deal to us knowing that we are not alone in this. I am currently deployed in Baghdad, Iraq.

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Jeannie Krackenberger, Miami, Fl — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:57:00 GMT

Growing up in a Military house hold, losing a loved brother to Vietnam and now praying for a Newphew in Camp Bucca, Iraq. My heart goes out to everyone touched by this war. We can't see it, or feel it like our troops who are living it. Can you imagine wakeing up every morning wondering if you will make it thru the day. I have read a letter similar to this from my Newphew, he did the best he could for his guys, but he will never forget, and nor will I.

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Memphs, Tn — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:58:02 GMT

I agree with Denver, Colorado, the country needs too seperate the emotions from critical thinking and look at the uneccessary reasons why all these American soliders (men and women) are in Iraq in the first place. Let it be known and understood by EVERY American, especially to any military personnel that may read this: For those of us that continue to say that we do not wish you to see any of our soliders in the kinds of fighting situations like Vietnam and Iraq,is NOT to say that we don't support you. We support you whole-heartedly but we don't find that there is any honor in the reasons that generated the war in Iraq in the first place. Yes, it is very honorable what the Americans soliders bring to the country of Iraq, the medical centers, food, all other kinds of comfort for the innocent people of Iraq that are being killed and wounded. What many of us need to realize is that the Iraqi culture has been fighting like this since the foundation of the world! History, especially Biblical history even describes, whose fighting and why the culture of that part of the world is the way it is and will remain so unitl the end of time. Also i beleive that every solider in the Iraqi situation, fighting etc, brings the code of honor and integrity to it. I also believe that for any of our soliders too maintain that integrity, they find reasons to promote that honor by committing honorable actions towards the Iraqi people. But the initial political reasons and purposes set by our government for our soliders to be in Iraqi are very unecessary, unprofitable for the soliders, Iraq and the American public. You should not be there. Oh just an F.Y.I. : This blog is coming fom someone whose had EVERY and i mean EVERY member of their family in every branch of the military. I salute and am grateful for all of you.

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Not So Liberal Nut — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:58:20 GMT

Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing this story. God Bless all of those who follow their orders and lay their lives on the line for a needless war. And God help those who call any of us who oppose it "liberal nuts".

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Scott, Chicago, Illinois — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 18:58:30 GMT

Bless all of our troops fighting overseas. I still wonder each day what exactly our mission is in Iraq, and why the U.S. is considered the world's 911 whenever a problem arises. We are not keeping the terrorists out of this country by fighting this so-called war. And they won't be "following us home" if we pull out either. Bush needs to be dropped off on the front lines for a few days to see how worthless this fight really is. Let's bring our troops home now and deal with the problems we face in our own country.

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Retired Soldier, Tacoma, WA — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:54:45 GMT

Reading this brought tears to my eyes. I want to thank the sons, daughters, mothers, fathers and loving spouses of every service member for their sacrifices that enable the service of their hero. The missed birthdays, accomplishments, hugs, and most of all the feeling of fear and the unknown. Know that it is appreciated and understood what you and your hero experience as families in your service to our country. It is unfortunate that we do not always get to see in the news the extrodinary things these heros do on a daily basis. I had the privilage of serving with these extrodinary men and women for over 24 years and was often in awe of their accomplishments. Heroic accomplishments that are often considered part of the everyday job of being a soldier serving their country. I often wondered what the loved one of these soldiers would think if they were aware of their soldiers heroics.

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Shane Matthews — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:54:48 GMT

God Bless the U.S. Military and let us not forget to vote the cowardly communists out of office. There is no place for them in our government.

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Shawn O'brien — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:55:06 GMT

i think our commander in chief deserves a code red. Corporal USMC

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Rodney Turner, Bonsall California — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:55:13 GMT

Thanks for an honest look at the men sent by and for us here enjoying the freedom our soldiers fight for. God Bless Rodney

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Shauna Eash, Hutchinson, KS — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:55:25 GMT

The day this war started my son always said he wanted to go there and defend our country. I am proud to say he will graduate from basic & soon be going to AIT. I am very proud to be a mother to a solder who will be defending our freedom and our country where ever he may be sent. Praise be to all our servicemen and women. I am very proud of all of you!! God Bless America!!

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Anne, NY, NY — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:55:29 GMT

What a moving letter. What an amazing reminder that these people, these soldiers, are just the ordinary and extraordinary of our America and I am so proud. Thank you for all you do. I want you all to come home to the America you are working for, fighting for, bleeding for and I pray this happens soon.

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Lori, West Virginia — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:55:54 GMT

If we all loved our country and freedom and were as dedicated to it as these young men and woman are-what a country the United States of America would be! Thank you from all of us who could not or would not be in your shoes. You are the real true heros.

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joe — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:56:21 GMT

i say thank you all ibeen in nam and i know the feeling god bless you all and take care of you all

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Adrian Markham — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:56:22 GMT

Muah and hugs too! Thank you. I understnad why you all are over there. I actually pay attention to more than one media outlet! Just Thank You All for what you are doing. For whatever its for I understand you are protecting us. From one of the biggest supporters of our troops! God Bless You All. Miss. Adrian M. Texas

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brenda sykes......bladenboro,north.carolina — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:56:41 GMT

We all need to give thanks to all our troops men and women who r fighting.i am very very proud to be a American.and our men and women r fighting for us to save our country,and we as Americans ned to help them fight to keep what is ours.those r our men and women and this is our country.lets stand up and fight along with them.and may GOD bring them all back home safe and sound.amen

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Donna Ortiz, Houston, Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:32:01 GMT

Thank you all for all that you do. I understand the need to protect our country from terrorism. I really think though, that our own people cause enough "terrorism" on their own. I.E: Virginia Tech, NASA, etc. I don't know if the Iraqi people appreciate us being there. But I know that y'all are doing what you feel is your duty. I just wish you didn't have to. Please be careful and stay safe. We would love to have you back home, safe and sound. God bless and keep everyone of you over there safe. Come home soon. Stay Strong.

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Carol, New Brunswick, NJ — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:33:42 GMT

When people are senselessly killed at Virginia Tech the nation is up in arms and all of the parents rush to bring their children home. When we are at war in Iraq, we found no WMD, Saddaham is dead now. Why aren't we rushing in to bring our people home. The deaths and injuries are as senseless to me as what happened in Virginia. BRING OUR CHILDREN HOME! There's no more money in the budget for this senseless fighting. The writing is on the wall and it's in English...just read it for God's sake and the children's sake and the world's sake!

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Omaha,NE — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:41:35 GMT

There has never been a question in my mind that our troops are the bravest and best in the world. I just think it's too bad that they have such bad leadership.

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xxxxxxxxxxx — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:45:08 GMT

WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED AS HUMAN BEINGS ???????? " HATRID IS NOT ENDED BY HATRID BUT BY LOVE " Buddha (

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Nancy Firlik — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:49:51 GMT

I look out at the green grass, the daffodils and hyacinths blooming, feel the warm breezes of spring, and I think of the soldiers facing none of this. Then I say a prayer for their safety and a future day for them like the one I have today. I believe we must not leave Iraq worse off than how we found it. I also believe that the time has long past for Iraqis to settle their political differences. To start bringing our soldiers home tells the Sunnis and Shias that their destiny is in their own hands.

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Jack Means, Willow Springs, Mo. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:50:23 GMT

Thank You to ALL the MEN and WOMEN of our Armed Forces for the often thankless jobs you do. Know my PRAYERS are with you as are lots of others

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Alissa Dyson — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:51:07 GMT

I want to say I send prayers your way... Angels around each and every one of you in harms way... Including the Iraqi people(not all are bad)! War is hard, bitter and cruel not at all fair. No matter what our political veiws. I want our men and women home on our soil, I want an end to the destroying of lives. Someone's Father, Mother. A mother's son, a fathers son. My American flag still waves, yellow ribbons on my tree's. Waiting for all of you serving in this hated War. I will not forget each day, I steadily stay tuned in to your World in Iraq. I have a nephew there now serving from Fortrichardson ,Alaska. I hear from him every now and again. The pain, anguish and desperate mind. His travails. They are deep and we cannot comprehend unless we have faught or been in their situation of circumstances. My heart goes out to our military. I honor each and every one of you there. God be with you!

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Lylia, Buffalo, New York — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:52:08 GMT

You are all AMAZING. The families over here are very lucky to have such dedicated people fighting for us over there. Your own families should be very proud. Thank you for all that you do and how well you do it every single day.

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Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta, Georgia — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:52:40 GMT

Everytime I read a comment from someone in the military and they express what they have to endure it is just heartbreaking. Everyone should do their part to support these brave men and women. I do pray for the safe return home of all our troops. One thing I do is to wear a dove of peace pin everyday. Someone asked me why I wear it and I said that I wear it in the hopes of a peaceful end to this war. I will always support the bravery and heroism of our military. Peace to all!

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Randy Jeske (USN Veteran) Gerrmantown Wisconsin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 03:56:01 GMT

Thank you and God bless. I have three sons in three sons in the Military (USMC)(USN)(USA)

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Retired in Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:00:50 GMT

LTC Kuehl and his men are the epitomy of the American fighting man and the leadership and courage that founded this nation. You are our hope and future for a strong USA. I salute you. To all of those that CLAIM to support our MILITARY men and women, those are hollow words if you don't act. I retired 2 years ago after 24 years of service. Our pension and benefits are a joke. Disability? I still haven't received a settlement and I was medically boarded for forced retirement due to former combat injuries before 9/11. If you care about our military, demand that the government take care of our heroes. Demand that they give them a pay raise now, a fair pension and timely and adequate medical care. Why are Sergeants with families eligible for welfare? I hear the words, I see the little yellow ribbons and flags. Its time to do something about it. If what our men and women are doing means anything to you, demand that our government take care of them.

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Ken Stookey, Heppner Or — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:04:08 GMT

May God watch over you and all the men and women over there. My prayer's and the prayer's of our whole congregation is with all of you. God bless

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Cassandra Patton, Fort Hood, Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:09:41 GMT

My husband is in Iraq currently and so I know what these people are going through. Luckily nothing has happened where my husband is stationed but I pray every day for the soldiers that are overseas away from their families. They are the brave! If you ask me, the soldiers don't get the attention they deserve. They deserve to be on the news showing everyone what they do for their country! GO TROOPS!!!

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Debra, Fountain Inn, SC — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:11:40 GMT

I'm proud of the men and women sacrificing their lives for a senseless cause. Being a former member of the armed forces I know how hard it is to be away from family and friends concerned. Know that we are blessed for having you in our life. You are always in my prayers to return home safely. God Bless and Take Care.

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B L Radar Erasmus, Southport, UK — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:14:36 GMT

It is always the soldier on the ground who gets nailed, whether he is a lt-colonel or a private. The price paid is too high in this war. The stategy is ad hoc and reminiscent of the worst of Vietnam. As a vet I feel for these guys. In Sicily in WWII the Marine Corps psychologists concluded that every soldier carries mental scars from combat. 800,000 vets are still fighting Vietnam. How many will fight Iraq and Afghanistan for the rest of their lives? For more see www.business-sniper.blogspot.com

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Jennifer, Pueblo, CO — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:19:31 GMT

Thank you for allowing us to read this and comment. I am so proud of our soldiers and feel for each of your families. Just know that there are those over here (in the states) who are praying for you all and hope you come home to your families soon. How little we know of what others go through in other countries. We have it so good here and we never see it until we see it through your eyes. It saddens me to know some of our soldiers are staying in places there that we would never think to put our rapists and murderers in the states. You all are worth so much more than that. Thank you - thank you - thank you and GOD BLESS YOU - HE IS THE REASON WE HAVE THE COUNTRY WE DO!

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AL GRUSH, KILGORE, TX. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:20:07 GMT

Thank you for your email. Our liberial media would never inform us of anything positive about what our troops are going through so thy are free to print what "they" want us to read. Please know that America knows the sacrafice being made for our freedom and protection. Everyone of our troops are being remembered in prayers to our heavenly Father that he will be with you as he promised he would. Thank you and God bless each and everyone of you.

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Mia S. Cruz, Pampanga, Philippines — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:22:56 GMT

Hi, I'm from the Philippines, and I believe that as American soldiers fighting terrorists in Iraq, you are not only protecting your country and its citizens but the citizens of other countries as well. Thank you. I pray that the Lord keep you and your troops in the hollow of His hands. God bless you and your families.

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Tom Godber, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:23:04 GMT

Almost all Americans support our troops, especially when they are operating in harms' way. We then pray for their safety and well being. But, at the same time, most Americans firmly believe that the Bush Administration lied to us about the need to invade Iraq and are deceitful in many of their other dealings as our Executive Branch. They have been myoptic and delusional on how to live peacefully with the Arab (and Persian) world. The best of the horrible choices they have given us is to get our boys and girls out of the hellhole they have created, and to use American money and intellect (obviously not theirs) to bring all parties to work toward a solution which lessens (rather than increases, as at present) the hatred we see each and every day directed against us. Vietnam was a mistake and we finally got out. Today Vietnam is a thriving capitalistic partner. Iraq could be such a partner in the future.

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daredevil, cairo, egypt — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:24:23 GMT

good try but who the hell send you to iraq in the first place you ought to blame only bush and yourself hope this goes on until you decide to pull out

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AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:28:29 GMT

TO MUSLIM AND HIS COMMENTS. YOU MUST BE SAFELY IN AMERICA TO VOICE YOUR COMMENTS.

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Lang Hua, San Jose, CA — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:28:46 GMT

Dear Lt Col Kuehl, I'm proud to be an american citizen because of you and all of our service men & women who put their lives in danger to bring freedom and demacracy to others around the world. I'm so sad & sorry for what you all going thru in Iraq. It brings tears to my eyes and also bring back the memories and pain about Vietnam war which pushed my family and many others out from Vietnam. This month Apr 30th marked 32 yrs since the fall of South Vietnam and people there still fight hard for freedom. I can never thank you all enough for your huge sacrifce. My heart aches and I cried out loud when I heard the news about our sodiers killed. My prayers are with you all everyday. May God protect each and everyone of you and bring you all home safely soon.

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Gabrielle Lys, planet earth — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:44:27 GMT

I'm not proud of our country for invading Iraq under a false assumption, and for causing what appears to be unnecessary physical and psychological sufferance to our troops. It is our DUTY, out of respect for our troops, to question our government's decision to keep troops in Iraq. Why are they being sent there? Will it accomplish anything constructive? Troops, civilians and children are being injured and killed for questionable motives, and it may very well be that none of them will be remembered as true heroes. This war should not be glorified on the basis that our troops are killing people or being killed. Why is it that, for so many of us, this war is defining our identity as proud Americans? Our freedom and our security are not related to this war. Having troops in Iraq is not likely to prevent any further terrorist attack on our country and will not change the terrorists' views of our government. Human rights are blatantly violated in countries such as Myanmar/Burma and yet we do not intervene. To really support our troops we should ask for them to be brought home, and ask for them to be used for justifiable and honorable causes. In the face of our current government’s refusal to accept the international agreement on CO2 emissions, we should prepare to send people to help future global warming refugees, people with no food and no drinking water. Our true heroes will be helping people in need and saving lives.

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DS, Dallas TX — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:46:12 GMT

I appreciate the view of all, however, instead of complaining about why the soldiers, marines, sailors, and airman are there, just thank them!! We are the reason you have the freedom to complain and challenge why! If you don’t like the situation then vote your conscience. If not, then enlist and pick up a rifle and help defend our freedoms. As a veteran from Granada to the first Gulf War and nine deployments after, I chose to serve not because I agreed with why, but I swore an oath. I didn’t realize the impact we were having in that region until I had dinner with a counter part of this so called violent heritage. When we met he thanked me for just being there. He was educated in the states and went back to be a superintendent of schools. All he wanted to do was educate the children, but that can not be done until this area is stable. Is there anything wrong for other societies wanting to have the same American Dream as we have? Just a comment if your active duty, dependent, or reservist/guard if you don’t like it, and support it, then leave it. We deserve better. Don, RN, CRNA TX

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Stephanie Weeks, ID — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:47:40 GMT

THE MAJORITY OF AMERICANS WAKE UP EVERY MORNING AND BEGIN THEIR DAILY ROUTINE WHICH CONSISTS OF ACTIONS THAT ONLY BENEFIT THEMSELVES, ALL AWHILE CONVINCING THEMSELVES THAT THEY DO ALL IN THEIR POWER TO SUPPORT OUR SOLDIERS. WELL ITS EASIER TO TALK ABOUT YOUR LIFE THEN IT IS TO LIVE UP TO IT. THE ONLY PEOPLE TRUE TO THEMSELVES ARE THE HEROES THAT ARE FIGHTING FOR OUR DISGUSTING DAILY ROUTINES... I HOPE THAT HEROIC STORIES LIKE THIS ONE WILL ENCOURAGE MORE AMERICANS TO GIVE THEIR THANKS THROUGH ACTIONS NOT JUST THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.

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lori smith, spencerville canada — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:49:55 GMT

God Bless the brave men and women of the United States of America, of Canada and every other country over there trying to save life. Im soo proud of all of you, we support you and your families. You are doing the right thing!!!

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Alice Combs, Gualala, Ca. 95445 — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:51:40 GMT

Thank you Lt. Col Kuehl for allowing us to read the letter to your wife. I am so proud of you & your men, and I am so thankful for your willing service. I wish I could write with stronger words to convey my strong emotions & the lump in my throat. I am sorry the media, for the most part, doesn't appropriately convey the heroics and achievements accomplished by you brave servicemen. I not only "support" you but support & respect what you are doing & why you are there. Alice Combs Gualala, Ca.

Invisible sacrifices

Doug Cooper, Idaho — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:24:40 GMT

To the idiot Bill who just had to make an editorial comment that the war is about oil: Get a clue, get your head out of the great body of the misinformed and uninterested and learn something. We are there because we don't want to be there 25 years from now. We want peace in the region and the only way it is going to happen is when the dictators and the terrorists who fear and hate freedom are gone and the governments are beholden to the people. I don't care what you call it, whether democracy or a republic or whatever, but somebody has to do something and thank God in Heaven we have men and women who can imagine a different tomorrow and are willing to fight for it. Free people don't fight each other - it is the great lesson of history. Iraq was the logical place to make it happen - we took out a dictator who had caused the deaths of 1,000,000 or more people since 1979. I could care less about WMD - it was and is the right thing to do. How dare we enjoy our freedom and then denigrate the sacrifice of our military and our government to bring those same freedoms to those oppressed around the world. What extraordinary arrogance!!! You denigrate them by telling them their sacrifice is not worth it - you simply cannot "support the troops" by telling them their mission is a mistake and their efforts a failure. It is hard as hell, and we have made some major mistakes in policy, but we have to make this work or make darn sure we did everything we possibly could. There is no choice - ITS A WAR, and the consequences of failure are enormous. We failed to do the right thing before against Bin Laden, when the death count was only in the hundreds at our emabassies - and because we failed to act, 3000 Americans died in one day on our own soil for our folly. LTC Keuhl, his men and their families are heroes, as much as any who have fought to make this nation great and to give hope to those who cannot begin to imagine what freedom is. That my fellow citizens is the noblest of motives and the highest calling - would that the media and the uninformed man in the street could recognize that sacrifice and freedom are always entwined.

Invisible sacrifices

Jeff Perez, Hesperia, CA — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:26:52 GMT

To all of our soldiers, your bravery and honor is appreciated by many of us here in the USA. Believe in God and ask for his guidance through your tour of duty. If our politicians spent anytime with all of you in the thick of battle, you all would get the recognition you deserve. God bless our soldiers, God bless America!!!

Invisible sacrifices

Lainie Paul — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:31:48 GMT

God Bless every man, woman and child standing for our freedom, wherever they are. And thank you from the bottom of my heart. Also God Bless the Contractors that are there to help get and do for our Military. My husband served 2 tours in Vietnam and was wounded both times, the last badly enough that he could not stay in the Marine Corp. He feels obligated to help our young men and women the only way he can today and that is as a private contractor. He has been to Iraq, then to Afghanistan and now back in Iraq. This is the kind of pride in and commitment for this Great Country that our Military possess. And the pride and commitment generally does not leave them just because they are no longer active. It is unfortunate that the general populace often lacks that same feeling of Pride and commitment in America. Thank you again Lt Col Dale Kuehl, all your fine and honorable men and women for all you do to keep us free and all the families back home for your sacrifice as well. Please come home safely.. Lainie Paul(wife of a USMC veteran), Ft Collins CO

Invisible sacrifices

Bob Ahlfeldt, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:35:31 GMT

It is pretty clear that these brave men and women believe firmly in what they are doing in IRAQ. The comments on how even after injury their greatest concern is to get back to the fight for what they believe and what they are accomplishing is truly worthy of the comments made on the job they do everyday and under conditions few here in the US can understand. It seems to me to be imperative we give these folks the resources, reenforcements and time needed to complete the mission they obviously believe to be worth the possible sacrifice of their life.

Invisible sacrifices

Doug Cooper, Idaho — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:42:27 GMT

To all those for whom it does not feel inconsistent to say nice things about the troops, yet denigrate their mission, their Commander in Chief and the notion that there is some worthwhile in fighting this war. Its not about oil, its about the future of millions upon millions of people for whom freedom and hope does not exist. We are there because we don't want to be there 25 years from now. We want peace in the region and the only way it is going to happen is when the dictators and the facists and the terrorists who fear and hate freedom are gone and the governments are beholden to the people. I don't care what you call it, whether democracy or a republic or whatever, but somebody has to do something and thank God in Heaven we have men and women who can imagine a different tomorrow and are willing to fight for it. Free people don't fight each other - it is the great lesson of history. Terrorism is born of opproression - the other great lesson of history. Iraq was the logical place to make it happen - we took out a dictator who had caused the deaths of 1,000,000 or more people since 1979. I could care less about WMD - it was and is the right thing to do. How dare we enjoy our freedom and then denigrate the sacrifice of our military and our government to bring those same freedoms to those oppressed around the world. What extraordinary arrogance!!! You denigrate them by telling them their sacrifice is not worth it - you simply cannot "support the troops" by telling them their mission is a mistake and their efforts a failure. It is hard as hell, and we have made some major mistakes in policy, but we have to make this work or make darn sure we did everything we possibly could. There is no choice - ITS A WAR, and the consequences of failure are enormous. We failed to do the right thing before against Bin Laden, when the death count was only in the hundreds at our emabassies - and because we failed to act, 3000 Americans died in one day on our own soil for our folly. LTC Keuhl, his men and their families are heroes, as much as any who have fought to make this nation great and to give hope to those who cannot begin to imagine what freedom is. That my fellow citizens is the noblest of motives and the highest calling - would that the media and the uninformed man in the street could recognize that sacrifice and freedom are always entwined. God Speed heroes – we pray for you every night – for you, your comrades, your families and your mission. We will be there when you return to thank you for the freedom we enjoy and the spark it gives to millions not so lucky.

Invisible sacrifices

Jennifer Diamond, Omaha, Ne — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:43:38 GMT

I'd like to say thank you for everything you are doing. It takes a very strong individual to make the sacrifices you've had to make. I just want you to know I support all of you. I will continue to pray for each and every one of you to return home safely. God bless you all.

Invisible sacrifices

L. Mabry ,Troy N.C. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:49:19 GMT

To Mr. Shefler and all the rest of the <36% who support this Bush-Cheney-Rumsfelt-Rove-Pearl-Wolfowitz war : to critize an unjustified ,disorganized,and unwinable war is NOT being unsupportive of our exceptionaly brave men and women in the military. Our troops,past and present deserve the best treatment possible and our undying gratitude for their gift of freedom to us.They also have a right to expect and deserve to not be sent in harms way unless and until all other avenues of settling international disputes have been exhausted.This was clearly not done before the Iraq invasion as the arrogance and lack of historical perspective of the current Adm. precluded it.

Invisible sacrifices

L. Mabry ,Troy N.C. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:52:08 GMT

Invisible sacrifices

Jennifer Diamond, Omaha, Ne — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 05:57:28 GMT

Thank you for sharing that. I have lost two friends in this war both killed by IEDs. Its nice to know not everybody over there dies. I don't understand a lot of the politics about this war, but I support every single troop over there. Your all are making sacrifices no one should have to. Thank you for that. God Bless you and may he keep watch over you and bring you all home safe.

Invisible sacrifices

Amy,North Carolina — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:12:10 GMT

I have read the majority of comments here. I myself a specialist with the U.S.Army. Yes this war needs to be over. Very over. The fact of the matter, it's not. You form bonds you didn't think possible. They're over there. Some want to be, some not. They are quite brave and scared stiff. Most of them have courage that we could only dream of. Myself, I am going to pray to God our Father to stop this war SOON, but to continue to give our troops everything they need as only He can give. I thought the story was fantastic myself. I like the idea of letters. Doesn't matter if I get one back. Just as long as they get letters of SUPPORT,ADMIRATION and GRATEFULNESS. And to Lt.Col.Kuehl and family, it's obvious is quite worthy of being called "Sir"!. Thank you...maybe ya'll should take over the evening news! Then I'd be glad to watch it. God bless you.

Invisible sacrifices

Kitty, Kaneohe, Hawaii — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:17:34 GMT

I'd like to say thank you to you and your men and women who are fighting to keep us free. Also thank you to your families who you have to be apart from. Your bravery and courage and all that you are sarcrifices for your country and us. I pray that you all come home soon, stay safe.

Invisible sacrifices

Leonard Smith, USMC, Castle Rock, CO — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:25:57 GMT

Semper Fi brothers. USMC Sand Box I. Most Americans will never understand what or why we do what we do. And that's fine. We will continue to do these things because they must be done to preserve a decent honorable way of life.

Invisible sacrifices

Saleh Dabbakehr — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:45:57 GMT

Let's talk about the other side; "the enemy" for a moment. I currently live in Jordan, where nearly 1 million Iraqis have fled with their lives (can you see the irony? American troops come to Iraq to FREE THE COUNTRY, so millions of Iraqis ARE FORCED TO LEAVE. I know many of them and they tell me stories about how bad their daily lives have become, how they have lost loved ones an how they had no other choice but flee Iraq. They only have one recurrent dream: to have peace so they can go back home. You should be thankful that your soldiers receive immediate medical attention. Yesterday, I have seen some Iraqis who could not receive any of that, so they had to be evacuated to Jordan by Doctors without Borders. They were receiving free recosntructive surgery care at the Jordan Red Crescent Hospital in Amman. They are not in any better shape than American soldiers. I will summ the results of this ugly war to you in one sentence: These people used to hate Saddam only four years ago; now they are sorry he is gone. At least "we used to be safe," they say. Now they have no electricity or drinking water. They do not even have gas in a country that has the second largest oil reserves in the world. Imagine not having airconditioning under 120 or 130 degrees in Baghdad. There is only one solution to end all the killing maiming and destruction in Iraq, be it American or Iraqis: US troops should get out of Iraq and the Middle East. Making your country safe does not mean you send your boys thousands of miles away overseas to kill others. The US should learn from Vietnam and other conflicts: Being a super power does not mean you can win against a small country because people will always fight back, even if for ever. You should be talking to Iraqis to understand this. They will never allow you to rule their country and build walls around their cities as the Israelis are doing to Palestininas.

Invisible sacrifices

Lorraine Tapia, Oxford, MS — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:59:05 GMT

"THERE IS NOT GREATER MAN THEN HE WHO LAYS DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIEND OR HIS BROTHER"

Invisible sacrifices

bingerz — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 07:47:57 GMT

God Bless You! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!

Invisible sacrifices

CS, Tacoma, WA — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:00:37 GMT

Having been a soldier and squad leader, I understand your commitment to your troops. Unfortunately, many of the writers responding don't understand that bond. We all sit back here and say things like, we support you, we are proud of you, you are brave and courageous, we need to bring you home, but you think only of the mission, survival, and the welfare of those you command on a daily basis. Thank you for volunteering to do the job that the rest of America doesn't care to do; the job that is looked down unless we're off fighting some crazy war. Thank you for looking after the young men and women under your command, some of whom had no idea what they were getting into when they said yes to Uncle Sam. Hearing of men like you makes me a little less weary should my own children decide to join the armed forces. Thank you for your service. It's people like you that make our country the greatest. God bless you and keep you until you're all home safe.

Invisible sacrifices

Scott Nelson (USArmy Retired) Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:17:40 GMT

God bless you and thanks for your sacrifices. You have the most thankless job in the world, but the most necessary. True American's understand and appreciate your sacrifices and dedications. You are true heroes amongst all the great names in our history who have sacrificed blood, time and family for humanity. From a proud Veteran, God bless and protect you, come home safely.

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Rev.Ron LevRon, Ridgely, Tn. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:44:29 GMT

Jesus said, Except a man (woman) be born again he (she) CANNOT enter the kingdom of heaven.with that said, it would be ashame for our American, God fearing people to not accept the apostles doctrine of being born again (Acts 2:38)and NOT make it into heaven. After all America is making such a sacrifice, and it would be ashamed NOT to see our brave men and women in heaven after so much pain.

Invisible sacrifices

larry kotara killeen tx — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:44:59 GMT

God bless all of our wonddreful troops and keep all of them safe thank each one you for the sacrifices you are makeing we love you and our prayers are with you all thank you Larry&cookie kotara FT HOOD TAXAS 4-24-07 3:42am

Invisible sacrifices

JoAnne, Vilseck, Germany — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 08:49:24 GMT

For those of us in the military community our thoughts are always with the men and women that are there, even when the ones we love have come home. Each and everything that happens touches us in a way most can not understand. Whether I agree with the war or not is an issue. I am a military spouse and I have a job to do. I will endure the hardships. I will keep my family whole. I will keep our love alive against impossible odds. I will be the smiling voice he hears when he gets to call home. I will be his laughter and his joy when he can find none in the world into which he has been sent. I will be his sanity, his lifeline to the world he holds so dear. I will endure, for him, I will endure. I am a military wife. It is my job.

Invisible sacrifices

brent hightower, hilo hi — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 10:25:17 GMT

It was hard to read Col. Kuehl say that what happens to his troops is his responsibility. I would like to tell him it's not his fault what happened to Maupin, or anyone else under his command. The fault lies with all of us, for not paying enough attention to what was going on until it was too late. Iraq has been more than a mistake, it's been a sin, and it is horribly sad that common, descent people like all of these soldiers must pay for it, instead of those responsible.

Invisible sacrifices

jeff davis cleveland ohio — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 10:28:48 GMT

what the hell does "catching" and "Moderation" mean? censorship? Welcome to the new America folks. Our fathers, and these brave men in Iraq today are dying for a lie.

Invisible sacrifices

jake riley huston Tx. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 10:37:43 GMT

This censorship is an insult, not only to the intelligence of these men and women in uniform, but to the values they are fighting for. What a disgrace for a supposed news organization! Why not trade in your ivy league degrees for a roll of toilet paper! The question is not, Do you support the troops, but do you support the war. Every one of you is an Orwelian trader to real democracy!

Invisible sacrifices

Nicole Canania MO — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 10:48:35 GMT

Don't let the inmoral, no value, cold hearted people get to you down. We TRUE Americans support our troops! I have gone through the war with my husband. He was there in the beginning of the war. I am very proud of our soldiers and I want to thank you for all the scarifies you do. I pray for you and your families every day. We WILL not forget our brave, that gives us a freedom.

Invisible sacrifices

ana, maspeth new york — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:00:01 GMT

I have two brothers in the US NAVY, so when my son decided to join the military force I encouraged him to choose the navy. In my mind I thought this was the safest of all the military fields. Reality hit me when he became a medic, and was stationed at CAMP LE JEUNE, in North Carolina. I have seen young men and women going through very tough training, and heard about many of them getting deployed. Our men and women in the military and their family sacrifice a lot. My prayers for your safe return. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND YOUR HARD WORK.

Invisible sacrifices

Dale Shephard — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:01:37 GMT

As the mother of a airman, in the AF, a daughter, I couldn't be MORE proud of ALL of the men and women that are serving this country.. God bless them all and their familes and God Bless President Bush.

Invisible sacrifices

shaun — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:57:34 GMT

As i read this letter, my throat closed and my eyes watered. i have family members that served in WWII and Veitnam. Just know that the hell the world is putting you through and the sacrifices you have made will never be forgotten. You keep our home safe so we want you to come home safe.

Invisible sacrifices

John and Margie Brewer, Chattanooga, TN — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 12:58:40 GMT

We can not start to begin to understand what you guys and gals go through over there, but we send our sincere thanks and prayers for everyone that is fighting to keep our country safe and free. We applaud you. We can not begin to know all the sacrifice's that you and your families are making. We pray for you every day and we support you whole heartly. God Bless you and God Bless America

Invisible sacrifices

Judy, attleboro ma, — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:07:19 GMT

My heart goes out to all fighting and to there familys.they have all made the sacrifice for every american.may god watch between you and thee while you are absent one from another. my prayers are with you all.

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Dr. Michael W. Popejoy, Charlotte, North Carolina — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:11:02 GMT

I want to thank our American military men and women for doing a great job under trying circumstances. These fine people do not get all the credit (or the money) they deserve for their sacrifices. However, I have to disagree with some of the sentiments that they are doing what other people will not do--we should remember that the American spririt of self-less sacrifice is demonstrated everyday by police officers, firefighters and paramedics--many of them are volunteers--yet they answer the call everyday. This is a great country with great people and we all should do all that we can to protect our independence no matter what the sacrifice. I am too old to serve now, but I am not too old to lend my voice in support for all the men and women who do serve.

Invisible sacrifices

TAMMY REAGAN, SPEEDWELL,TN — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:13:25 GMT

MY THOUGHT'S AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AS A MOTHER OF A MARINE, I AM PROUD OF ALL YOU GUY'S THAT ARE AND HAVE BEEN OVER THERE. REMEMBER FREEDOM ISN'T FREE!

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Sarah, San Diego, CA — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:21:56 GMT

God bless Lt.Co. Kuehl and all of his wonderful young men. These are the men Harry Reid is moving to cut funds off to . . . Reid should be brought up on charges of treason!

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Jamie Maupin, San Antonio, Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:23:13 GMT

My name is Jamie and I am SSG Maupins wife. I just want to clarify that Jason is not related to Matt Maupin directly but we of course felt the connection when Matt went missing and Jason carries the article in his wallet from the time it happened. Although it will be a long way to recovery Jason is doing well at BAMC and has undergone several surgeries and there are a few to go still. Thank you all and God Bless Our Troops!

Invisible sacrifices

lseats, north carolina — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 14:04:55 GMT

My prayers are with all the men and women in our military service, especially those in Iraq, The American people and especially those in CONGRESS need to do all that is necessary to ensure the military have everything they need to keep them safe. No matter how anyone feels about the war, we MUST support these men and women. I have a grandson in the army military intelligence and he will probably be in Iraq later this year, I am so proud of him and our other soldiers. God bless them every day and pray for their safe and quick return. They are all heroes every day.

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Kate , Helena, MT — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 14:10:44 GMT

My husband fought in Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War, he didn't make it in the last one. I pray to God that He blesses all of our men and women over there. We love you. There is a movement starting here to wear red on Fridays in memory of the sacrifices our soldiers are making FOR US!! They are there because they were asked to by our country. If we don't like it go after the politicians,but stop the whining. Hearing about it only tears down the moral of our troops and they have every right to be proud of themselves and know that we support them!

Invisible sacrifices

Judy Ferguson, Manlius, N.Y. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 14:22:24 GMT

I am a mother and a grandmother. I do not have any one in the service, I pray for everyone of our service men and women that are fighting for freedom for everyone. I do wish there could be some other way than to loose lives of brave young people. God bless you all.

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Andi, Edmond, Ok — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 14:44:04 GMT

To Paula & anyone else who would like to help make life a little better for a soldier log onto anysoldier.com or LetSayThanks.com

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O. N. Silver Spring, MD — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 14:44:29 GMT

May God Bless, protect and guide our troops.. May they come home soon safely. Amen. I will continue to pray and fast for our troops and their families and for all this mess to be over soon. God Bless you. Thank you for what you do for us. Amen.

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Mary, Phoenix, Arizona — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:24:33 GMT

My hope is that all the soldiers can come home safe and sound. My brother gave the ultimate sacriface over there. I never saw a story about the Iraqi that but his life between the sniper and my brother and the men trying to get him to safety as he laid cover with my brothers gun. These are the stories we need to see. My heart goes out to all these soldiers and their families.

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Nancy, Casper, WY — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:29:20 GMT

Thank you so much for posting this e mail. I for one do strive to read your words, to try and understand what has happened to us as a nation and to honor your sacrafices by keeping up with your trials. I still try daily to dicipher why? How did we get here and how this could happen in 2007? Please, know that we care, that we will never understand fully but admire your humanity and yes, sacrafice. It no longer matters how we got to where we are, only that we continue daily to pray for all of you, your mothers and families. It seems so insane that through your suffering and acts of heroism, we are all learning the depths of our own humanity.

Invisible sacrifices

Gina, Vermont — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:44:05 GMT

We are Americans! We may not agree with why our troops are over there but we need to show the troops, NO we need to show the world we are ONE!!! A unified country what will not stand back and let other people destroy what our ancestors fought and died for. God bless each and every soldier out there. My prayers are with you. May you come home safe. THANK YOU PAST AND PRESENT VETERANS FOR MY FREEDOM!

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Barbara Lillipop, San Jose, Ca. — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:45:41 GMT

These kinds of true life moments need to be on the front page of every newspaper and on a segment of every news broadcast. The news media has the power to do this yet they do not. My local paper has a story about moths on the front page this morning! What is happening in Iraq is on page 7 including 9 US soldier deaths!! I am intensely proud of all the men and women serving in our armed forces. I don't feel enough people are made aware of the sacrifices these people are giving being away from their families and putting their lives at risk. I work with too many people who know more about the horror that happened in Virginia than they do about the total number of casualties and number wounded from Iraq.I am not trying to lessen what happened in Iraq, only to make a point about what the media covers. This is something the news media CAN do: raise awareness about the soldiers in Iraq!! They TOO are mainly young people with their lives ahead of them. Yet, it is relegated to the middle pages and deep in the web pages for a day or two.

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Chris, OH — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:49:15 GMT

Thank you so much for your sacrifices. We go about our daily lives here and take for granted what all the soldiers do for us. Maybe our elected officials should be require to spend a 30 day stint along side our soldiers - maybe they wouldn't be so quick to want to cut funding!!! God bless each of you.

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jean m griffin — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 16:36:21 GMT

GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND I THANK-YOU.

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Jennifer Goddard Orange Park, Florida — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 16:38:23 GMT

Thank you for serving our WORLD by trying to bring peace ALL. You are all our HEROS.

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Mecky Jones a friend of the Maupin's extended family, San Antonio, Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 16:45:12 GMT

Jason is very special. God has plans for him...just you wait and see. Jason represents everything good and admirable in the men and women who put their lives and wellbeing on the line to keep America free. I can't say that I agree with the concept of war, but that is not the issue here. This issue is to pay due homage to all those soldiers who are fighting because their government tells them to...whether they support "war" or not. This is duty to country in it's purist form. Mecky Jones, a friend of the Maupin's extended family, San Antonio, Texas

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Tony Skeen — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 17:21:43 GMT

God bless all your Brave souls. The sacrifices you make should never be taken for granted by any true American. May the Lord speed you home soon.

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Kathy Harper Troy, MO — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 17:44:28 GMT

Doc Courson is like a son to me and i am very proud of what he does each and every day. we all miss him and appreciate the wonderful cmoments about him in this letter.please all of you be safe and know your families are waiting for your return.

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Petra Cahill — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:28:01 GMT

Thank you for all of your comments. The response to this blog entry was so overwhelming that it's not possible for us to publish them all here. Please check back for more postings from Richard Engel and other NBC News contributors to the World Blog.

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SPC Curtis Nelson, Bahgdad Iraq — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:47:51 GMT

I am a member of the Lt. Col Kuehl's PSD here in Bahgdad. Thank you all for your support, you have no idea how much this encouraged us reading this tonight. Doc Coursen is doing well. (just saw him tonight)

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Janice De Los Santos, San Antonio Texas — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:53:39 GMT

I am SSGT Jason Maupin's mother and want to thank all of you that have sent prayers and thank you(s) to Jason and his company. Jason has already undergone several surgies on the right side of his body. They are working to save the left arm and he is doing well. He talks often about his "brothers", those still in Iraq. He will heal and will not be 100% ever again, but we are thankful he survived and thankful he is home with his wife and children and all the family he has here in Texas. Some day I hope to have the chance to shake Doc Coursen's hand and thank him personally for saving Jason's life. He arrived in Germany on Easter Sunday and I fell to my knees and thanked God that he returned my son to me on the day His son rose to heaven to be with Him. For all those soldiers still in Iraq, we continue to pray for your strength and safety. Stay strong and know we are waiting for your safe return home.

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Gerald Torres, Albuquerque New Mexico — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 16:38:12 GMT

I am 1LT Torres, Delta Co 2/200 Infantry WPNS. I have so much to say but I'll keep it short. I have not yet had the privilege to serve in Iraq or Afghanistan. I look forward to the opportunity of leading my soldiers and bringing them back home. I just want to say thank you to all of you who are out there or have gone and come back. This country of ours does not seem to appreciate all that we as solders do and I don't think they realize the importance of our job. They just go on about their own lives as if nothing is happening around the world. World events affect even us in the US. I pray for our soldiers every day that they will get home safe to their families. Once again, THANK YOU for your service.