My son left for his third tour in Iraq today

[stanwyck]

He's a Marine with the 26th MEU.
Actually, he left us today to return to Camp Lejeune. He leaves on the 5th for his trip back to Iraq.
The people here at DU have been amazing support for me during his first two tours. Really. You can't believe what a difference it makes to have the support of the people here. My son is also very appreciative. I share with him your positive thoughts.
We're a family of liberals, including my son, who are suffering along with the rest of America through this dark time for our country. Knowing how much the thoughtful people here care about out troops, and how they're being utilized by this administration, keeps our family from being overcome with desperation.
Happy New Year to all of you. Thanks again for your kindness and compassion.
I hope we all find peace in the coming year.

[Selatius]

1. Let me ask you one question

They're going to keep telling him to do tours over and over again, aren't they? Is he going to do a 4th and 5th tour?

[stanwyck]

25. I honestly don't know

my brother-in-law, a retired Navy admiral, says that what people don't realize is that the troops in Iraq represent 40% of our total military. The reason is, there is a large support structure which is crucial, but not suited for the war in Iraq. For example, my nephew is a helicopter pilot, Annapolis grad., who was part of the initial invasion into Afghanistan and Iraq. However, he's been stateside since that first tour.
What's needed are troops like my son, a Marine scout sniper. This war on terror....against an enemy that is unidentifiable...requires boots on the ground. So, the troops who are being deployed to get in the middle of this civil war are the same people, over and over.
Much of the support for the "boots on the ground" troops that would have been done by our military in the past is now being done by private contractors.
The time our soldiers and Marines are spending in a war zone is unprecedented for our country.
Your concern about how this administration is utilizing our troops is extremely warranted.
I'm more concerned about this third tour than I was on the previous two.
A 4th of 5th tour? Who knows.

[roguevalley]

83. God bless you and your boy. God bless your family. This is appalling.

[Monkeyman]

2. From this Vet May the War Gods and God Watch over Him

And bring him home to your loving arms safe in body and mind

[stanwyck]

39. Thank you, Monkey

you're making me cry.

[Monkeyman]

48. You are in my heart and prayers

[Nikki Stone1]

3. You've got a brave son.

The 3rd tour? Lordy, the military is being spread thin.

[MikeNearMcChord]

4. I pray for his safe return as well as his fellow Marines.

Shame that Jenna, Barbara, George(Jeb's son), Pierce and other Bushes and all the Neocons aren't availible to deploy. End this war now!

[Solly Mack]

5. ((((stanwyck))))

As always, you and yours are in my thoughts.

[stanwyck]

79. Happy New Year, Solly!

Hope this one is just perfect for you.

[uppityperson]

Happy New Year, and hoping he returns physically and emotionally healthy

and hoping for the same for you.

[shireen]

6. he'll be in my thoughts

please give us updates on how he's doing, Would he consider doing a blog so we can follow his life in Iraq? I've always wondered what their everyday lives are like, what they do for entertainment, how they interact with Iraqi in casual settings, etc.. What's it like to be a soldier in Iraq?

[Stardust]

71. That would be so interesting.

[sanskritwarrior]

7. I just got back from my second tour

Army guy.....May he be safe during his time away, may he have the courage to do what's right in this war and may he return safe to you.

[peacebird]

10. welcome back home! Thank you for your service. Can you post your views of how Iraq is going?

I would be very interested in hearing your description and feelings about the war.
Happy New Year, Army guy - love the tag - Sanskrit warrior

[sanskritwarrior]

17. I've been thinking of my feelings for a while

When I have completely collected them I'll post a long rambling monologue that hopefully will make sense.

[peacebird]

27. I will keep a lookout for it - in the meantime, welcome back home!

I'm glad you are safe and home!

:hug:

[DemReadingDU]

87. Welcome home!

Looking forward to reading more of your writings about Iraq

[Viva_La_Revolution]

12. Welcome back!

:bounce:

:patriot:

[Monkeyman]

15. Welcome Home

[libnnc]

23. Welcome home.

And Happy New Year. :toast:

[stanwyck]

26. we're so glad you're home!

Thanks for the support.
Happy New Year. I hope it's wonderful.

[brer cat]

32. Welcome home! Thank you for your service.

And welcome to DU. :hi:

[shireen]

welcome home! thank you for your service!

I'll be looking for your posts in the future. It will be very interesting to hear your comments.

I've always wondered what it's like to be a soldier in Iraq. What's a typical day like? Please include that in your future post, if possible,

I'm so glad you're home safe and sound, and hope you never have to go back.

[babylonsister]

40. Welcome home, sanskritwarrior.

I really hope you don't have to go back, and I look forward to hearing about your impressions while there. I think DU really needs to hear the truth from someone who's been there.

[RamboLiberal]

61. Welcome Home - Glad you came back safe

:patriot: And thank you for your service!

[Morgana LaFey]

72. I'm so glad you're home

Bless you. Thank you. Stay safe (and home!!). I too will look forward to y our monologue.

[cui bono]

74. Welcome Home! Glad you are safe. =) n/t

[Nostradammit]

84. Welcome home sanskritwarrior -

We're glad you're back and we're glad you're here.

Thanks for your courage.

[Miss Chybil]

8. I send your son the prayer I say for mine.

May God and the Universe keep him safe, happy, healthy and whole. Peace, come to us all.

[Viva_La_Revolution]

9. hang in there

we'll be here for you.

may the deity protect him.

:hug:

[etherealtruth]

11. My thoughts and prayers for health,happiness and a quick return home

[peace13]

13. We will think good thoughts for your family.

I thank him for his brave service to our country. I am so sorry that he has been called again. Peace and love, Kim

[Kajsa]

14. I pray for his safe return home.

I'm sending very good thoughts and prayers
to all of you.

[liberal N proud]

16. Pray for his safety

Our hearts are with you and your family.

My brother thinks my nephew will be returning mid January, I would bet otherwise

[EFerrari]

18. I see him coming home and sorting his laundry, stanwyck,

and I will keep that image until he does.

:hug:

[renate]

47. that's a great idea

Visualizing something like that doesn't seem to have quite the oomph that visualizing his safety in a war zone does, but I think it's actually even more powerful since--obviously--it implies that all the fighting is behind him and he's home safe and sound.

I'll be holding that image in mind for him too.

[EFerrari]

49. It gets around all the draining, distracting fearfulness.

There is a lot of power in just everyday, homely things. :)

[Diane R]

19. You son will be in my thoughts.....

..Can our Congress pass a bill to limit the number of tours these soldiers have to do in Iraq? Is is one more way we could stop this idiot's insanity?

Or, how about if we all call for the young republican staffers on Capital Hill to enlist? I have a friend whose strong, healthy 27 year old nephew works for Republican Cathy McMorris. I've bit my tongue to pieces to not ask why he can't go fight the war that he works to support.

[stanwyck]

33. did you forget

those war-lovin' young Republicans are "fighting the war over here".
Just as we are. Fighting to take back our country and become a nation that only goes to war as a last resort, after all options have been exhausted.
Thanks, Diane, for your concern. It means a lot.

[libnnc]

20. Sending you and your Marine son some positive vibes

for his safe and speedy return home. He will certainly be in my thoughts.

I've always loved your screen name too btw. I'm a huge, (freak-like really) Stanwyck fan myself.

Lets all work to make this new year the one that brings our troops home safe and sound for good.


:hug:

[blondeatlast]

21. May they all return safely and in one piece.

Thank him for his service to the country. My heart is with you tonight.

:patriot: :cry:

[Hangingon]

22. May he be safe.

You and he are in our prayers. Will he be there a year?

[Normvan]

30. Fight the good fight !

Might he stay strong,safe and return for good.

[stanwyck]

38. No. Not a year.

His tours have been eight months. There are many in the Army and the reserves who have had 12+ month tours. And there have been a few heart-wrenching incidents when troops were headed home only to learn they were going to have to stay for another six months.
The Marine tours generally are not as long.
However, the Marines make up about 12-15% of the forces in Iraq...but 30% of the casualties, due to the nature of their jobs.
I really feel for those families who have to endure the 12month, and longer, tours. Eight months is difficult enough.

[Hangingon]

51. Son-in-law is army and just back from a second tour.

Air Force nephew has had three shorter tours. No Marines or Navy in the family right now. These multiple tours are tough on troops, families, equipment - everything.

[The Wielding Truth]

24. Good friend's son just got word he is heading to Iraq in Jan 07

for the first time. She and you have our hearts and our prayers that peace will prevail and they will come home safe.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

28. My prayers go to you and your son

may you both be strong and may he return, safe and whole, soon.

[flyarm]

29. FROM THIS MOM TO YOU..I SEND MY HUGS AND LOVE

NOTHING COULD BE HARDER THAN SEEING YOUR SON GO...

i wish i could hug you...i can't imagine seeing my son go off to Iraq..i really couldn't.i would not be as strong as you..

i hate when my son leaves for Ny..i lay on his bed and smell him on his pillow case!!

You mom... are a hero to me..that you have the strength to endure this separation from your boy...

I wish him God's speed and hope he is home to you , in your arms ... soon..


my sincerest , and warmest thoughts are with you...and your family and most importantly with your son..may god keep him safe.

fly

[Frustratedlady]

31. Best thoughts and prayers heading to you and your son and family

I know how hard it is to see them leave and the long nights of worry, but I hope you are able to share your concerns with this group...you know we won't let you down.

Bless you all.

[Th1onein]

34. May he stay whole and safe.

n/t

[GCP]

35. My thoughts are with you, your son and your family

May he come back to you safe and sound :hug:

[brer cat]

36. Keeping you and your son in thoughts and prayers.

Please let him know that I appreciate his service.

May we all find peace in 2007.

[babylonsister]

37. stanwyck, please know your son and family will be in my thoughts

and prayers. If he needs ANYTHING, please let us know. :hug:

[Disturbed]

43. Scout Sniper

Scout Sniper
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


Scout Sniper, (MOS 8541) is a specialist in the United States Marine Corps whose mission is to deny the enemy freedom of movement by shooting enemy leaders, crew-served weapons operators, radiomen, observers, messengers, and other key personnel with single, well-aimed shots. In addition, scout snipers also provide close reconnaissance and surveillance to the infantry battalion.

Scout/Sniper also refers to a member of a U.S. Army Reconnaissance platoon's sniper section; though unlike the Marine position, this is not a designated MOS but rather a position denoted on the individual unit's MTOE. Scout/Snipers are typically found in the Recon platoon of the infantry Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), or interspersed into Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition (RSTA) squadrons and troops.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scout_Sniper

[qanda]

41. I will be praying for his safety

[democrank]

42. So many times in life

we have to dig deeply to find the strength to face what`s before us. If I had my way, your son wouldn`t go and you wouldn`t worry. Since that isn`t the case, just know that there are people you don`t know, people you`ll never meet who will continue to hold your son in their thoughts and do everything in their power to support him and others like him when they return. I wish him well, stanwyck. Remember we`re here for you.

[lyonn]

78. democrank, well stated

We can only think positive thoughts and let those that must endure this madness, like Stanwyck, know our hearts truly hurt for her (?) and all those fighting this insane war. We must get our troops out of the heart of the sectarian battle. Somehow I believe that if pressure is put on Bush via impeachment or pressure from both parties to allow the military to make the decisions as to how the war can be drawn down, and quickly.

The next month on the Hill will be critical. Can or will the democrats in power apply the pressure needed? This "surge" situation sounds insane to me. We should be pulling back. Maybe if we flood the politicians with our opinions we can get her boy and all the others Home!

This has got to be one bitch of a New Years eve for Stanwyck and family and son. A close friend (marine) of my grandchildren is leaving about the same time for Iraq. He is home on leave and is with them tonight partying. I want to kidnap him, ugh

[stanwyck]

80. Thank you so much, Democrank. n/t

[w8liftinglady]

44. From another mom who's been there multiple times...

a big hug...

[Nite Owl]

45. You are all in our thoughts and prayers

always for the strength you all need and his safe return.
Peace this New Year.

[applegrove]

46. Stanwhyck... my thoughts are with you.

[Crunchy Frog]

50. I'm so sorry.

I can't imagine what it's like to go through something like that, especially when it's over and over again.

I will keep my fingers crossed for the safe return of him, and all our other young men and women in harms way.

[ninkasi]

52. I pray that your son

and the other sons and daughters serving over there will be kept safe, and unharmed. My biggest prayer is for this horrible war to end. Please, stanwyck, keep us up to date on how your son does. I pray every day for the troops. I can't imagine how hard this must be for you, but here, you are among friends.:grouphug:

[onecent]

53. My blessings and prayers are with your son. Please bring him

home safely...and PUT this idiot commander in chief OUT OF business.

[JohnnyLib2]

54. All best wishes for your son and all the family.

[wanpete]

55. prayers for his and every soldier's safe return and an end to the war soon.

[stanwyck]

56. Thank you all so very much! Happy New Year everyone. n/t

[peacebaby3]

57. Oh, Stanwyck...my hubby just did one 16 month long tour in Iraq and that

about killed me so I just can't imagine what #3 would be like? Is he scheduled for 6 months or are they sending the Marines for longer deployments now? I thought I heard they were doing extended deployments or they may have been since 2003 and I just didn't know. My husband is Army.

I'm sorry and please tell your son from the wife of a soldier that he will be in my thoughts and prayers as will you and the rest of your family! If there is anything you or he needs, don't hesitate to PM me.

[stanwyck]

81. Wow. 16 months!

You poor thing, peacebaby. My son's tours have been 8 months. The Marine tours are generally 8 months. I can't imagine what you've been through with a 16 month tour. That's just horrific.
Happy New Year to you and your family. I appreciate your support. Very much.

[peacebaby3]

106. Yes, 14 months boots on the ground and 2 months (before and after)

on the post away from home. I counted every day! It was terrible, but I thank God, he hasn't been called back. His unit was called back up, but he is about to retire with more than 20 in so he's not going back (as far as we know). I still live with that fear everyday right now, especially with all of the "surge" crap.

I really meant what I said about needing anything. It would be my honor to help with anything he, you, or your family needs. I've been in that place.

[Kerrytravelers]

58. I'll keep your family in my thoughts and in my prayers.

:hug:

[Name removed]

59. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[peacebaby3]

63. You won't find any argument from anyone on this board. We want

our troops out now.

I'm curious to know about Bahrain. Please tell me about life in your country.

[knitter4democracy]

60. He's getting my next helmet liner.

Good thing I bought that yarn I sale I saw. I will get on that as soon as I get a couple of other things finished first. I wish I could do more. Does he need anything else? Make sure to let us all know.

[RamboLiberal]

62. My thoughts are with you and your son Stanwyck

May he and all his Marine buds come home safe! Happy New Year to you and may 2007 be the year we end this madness so your son and all the others will never have to go back.

[northofdenali]

64. I just lit my "hope and health" candle for your son.

Given to me by my stepdaughter, I've used this candle exclusively for those I care about. I'll add a good karma push every evening at 6:00 pm; it's a "perpetual" candle, and I'll keep it lit until he's home where you can give him all the hugs you (and he) need.

:hug::loveya::hug:

stanwyk, we'll all think loving thoughts and send good karma his way; you know DU can do it.

[shadowknows69]

65. You have my most sincere prayers Stanwyck

for his safe return. I've met so many young men and women on their way to their third tours. His experience is his greatest asset in getting back to you safe and sound.

[fortyfeetunder]

66. wishing him a a round-trip safe voyage

my thoughts are with you and hope your son has a safe voyage on his tour and a safe return home
:hug:

[westerebus]

67. From an old corps grunt.

Thought we walk thought the valley of death, we fear no evil, for we are the meanest SOBs in the valley.
And I'll keep your son in my prayers. Semper Fi.

[stanwyck]

82. Thank you, Westerebus

I'll tell my son.

[NanceGreggs]

68. Prayers and thoughts of peace ...

... go with you tonight, and each night until your son's safe return.

[TheManInTheMac]

69. I pray for your son,

and all of our brave young men and women in uniform. And I pray for peace. Be brave and keep your chin up.

[Starbucks Anarchist]

70. Best wishes for your son's safety, stanwyck.

[proud patriot]

73. I'll shall send all the positive energy I can muster

:-):hug:

[cui bono]

75. Wishes for a safe return to you and yours.

[Dem_4_Life]

76. That is so horrible esp. on New Year's eve when he should be with his family.

I will keep your son in my thoughts and I wish you and your son a safe, peaceful new year.

[illinoisprogressive]

77. I am hoping and praying that we get these kids home for good.

This war is so stupid. There is no reason for it. And yet we send our future there to die.
My heart breaks for you and your family.
peace be with you.

[Nostradammit]

85. I say a prayer for your son, stanwyck -

and a prayer that your family remain strong.

May this be the last war.

[lostnotforgotten]

86. As An Ex Military Officer - I Hope For Him The Best

What the BFEE is doing to the military is beyond criminal.

Our military should be to protect our shores not to invade other countries indiscriminately.

[poiuytsister]

88. Good luck to your son

and to all of our loved ones. As another Mom I know where you are right now, my son is Air Force and will going back to Iraq AGAIN in February. This will be his last deployment and then he is done. He will be providing security for the Army and I am scared witless for him. I am frustrated beyond all comprehension.

[Joanne98]

89. Happy New Year stanwyck.

[vincent_vega_lives]

90. God bless him

and good luck to him. Another six months in that SH.

PS: Three USMC tours = 1.5 Army National Guard Tours. :nopity:

Sorry, just teasing... :hi:

[AzDar]

91. Peace to you in this unimaginably difficult time...until your dear boy returns to you safely.

[lonestarnot]

92. God speed stnawyck, god speed.

:hug:

[CrispyQ]

93. Holding you, your son & your family close in my heart & thoughts.

I cannot imagine.

[dogday]

94. My only son returned home in November

This is my worst fear as well...

How can I express to you the anguish and anger I feel? I don't need to, do I?

Mine informed me the other day he is getting out of the military, music to my ears...

My best heartfelt wishes and strength to you... If you ever need a shoulder, I have, and continue to be going through this, just pm me... :hug:

[stanwyck]

95. I'm so glad your son is home.

thanks, dogday, for your concern. This is so beneficial to me.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful New Year.

[dogday]

102. And I wish you and yours the best!

I am just a pm away.... :hi:

[leo8888]

99. Your son is making the right decision

I believe many of them will leave the military in disgust as well. They have been used by corporate America. Their deployment in Iraq has nothing to do with the security of the US.

Bush will go down in history as a mediocre individual who managed to reach the top position by virtue of his name and family fortune, but certainly not because of his skills. He has none. He is a puppet of large corporations.

[dogday]

101. I did not think he would quit but he said

that was that and he will not re-enlist. I do not impose my politics on him, he had to make this decision on his own as a person, with no political influence, just a person who is saying no more...

[Gormy Cuss]

96. Best wishes for a safe return for him

and every other person deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

[mnhtnbb]

97. Hoping for the safe return of your son--soon.

[leo8888]

98. Good luck to your son!

I wish him the best and I hope he can keep his sanity while knowing that he is being used by the Bush administration for a corporate war, not a war on terrorism.

[Recursion]

100. Semper fi, fair winds, and following seas.

I worked with 26th MEU a lot (including in the sandbox) and he has a bunch of outstanding Marines who have his back. It would be better if he were home, but for what it's worth, several hundred of the toughest people you'll ever meet will stop at nothing to make sure he gets back.

Thank you and him for both of your service and sacrifice.

[Justpat]

103. .

Don't know what to say, except that you and your son will be in my prayers every day.

:hug:

[PuraVidaDreamin]

104. I'm working hard to get him home soon!

Peace In

[me b zola]

105. My thoughts & best wishes are with your son, you, and your family

:grouphug:

[a la izquierda]

107. Godspeed to your son. N/T