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>From a CentCom news release on 11-25-03:
COUNTER FIRE TO A MORTAR ATTACK
TIKRIT, Iraq – At approximately 6:45 a.m. on Nov. 25, attackers using mortars fired upon Task Force Ironhorse soldiers guarding a forward operating base. In response to the attack, soldiers fired artillery rounds based on a radar system pinpointing the location used by enemy to mount the mortar attack. The mortars fired against Task Force Ironhorse soldiers were fired in close proximity to residential buildings.
A quick reaction force maneuvered to overtake the attackers and discovered two casualties. One person was found unresponsive and one was wounded. The injured person was treated at the scene and was evacuated to the Balad hospital. The person’s condition is unknown.
Additionally, soldiers responding to the attack captured 24 men found near the location of the attack. Soldiers confiscated two AK-47s, 15 AK-47 magazines, 450 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, one ammunition bandolier, and an aiming stake used to target mortars.
The task force is investigating reports that civilians may have been injured during the course of the artillery counter-fire against the enemy mortar position.
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Thanksgiving Message from MG Raymond Odierno:
22 November 2003
MEMORANDUM FOR Task Force Ironhorse
SUBJECT: Thanksgiving Message
1. I would like to extend a Happy Thanksgiving to all of our great soldiers, and your families and loved ones at home. Today we celebrate America's founders who fled religious persecution to establish a nation where all people could worship freely. As we are thankful for our many blessings, Iraqis are also thankful today that we successfully liberated them and they are able to worship and celebrate freely. Years from now, when we reflect back on this Thanksgiving, we will remember celebrating this great American tradition in a country that is just beginning to develop some of the freedoms we enjoy. Every soldier in Task Force Ironhorse should be proud of their tremendous contribution to Operation Iraqi Freedom and the positive impact they are having on this nation and this part of the world.
2. We give thanks today for the tremendous support we receive daily from our families and friends across the United States and the world. We would rather be with them enjoying our own unique family traditions today, but we understand our mission and will see it through. As you celebrate Thanksgiving, I ask you to consider three things: First, remember those who have given their lives for their country and their families. Next, reflect upon the freedom we cherish and the liberty we enjoy; this is what all nations strive to achieve. Finally, and most importantly, think about the vital role you are playing to ensure this country never returns to a horribly cruel dictatorship of the past.
3. America is saying a thankful prayer today for all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines placing their lives in harms way. Our nation's resolve and your uncommon sacrifice are the pillars for our way of life and the principles we hold so dear as a civil society. Along with our nation's gratitude you have my personal appreciation for your courage, dedication, and hard work. Happy Thanksgiving and God bless you and your families.
Steadfast and Loyal
(signed)
Raymond T. Odierno
MG, USA
Commanding
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These thoughts were sent to me by my niece - good things to reflect on as we count our blessings on Thanksgiving:
Thoughts at Thanksgiving
Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.
If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you don't have a leg to stand on.
Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.
Never buy a car you can't push.
Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.
The early worm gets eaten by the bird, so sleep late.
Birthdays are good for you; the more you have, the longer you live.
Ever notice that the people who are late are often much jollier than the people who have to wait for them?
If ignorance is bliss, why aren't more people happy?
You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.
Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.
A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.
Happiness comes through doors you didn't even know you left open.
Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened.
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What Our Families Are Hearing From Our Soldiers in Iraq:
1) I am so proud of our soldier/son (B Co, 1-22). We have had several chances to chat with him over the internet, and yesterday he was making sure he had his grandparent's phone number so he could call all of us there on Thanksgiving day. I know conditions can't be very good there, even with the trailers they now have and a "makeshift chow hall," but he, like his Dad, uses humor to help him cope. He was telling us about one of the civilian contractors who had just driven up to the chow hall and a mortar hit the truck right after he got out. His comment: "At least it was just a Ford, not a good truck." We've been talking about his brother who is in Germany right now with 1st ID, but in the artillery, and who will be heading into Iraq next year. They have a rivalry as to which is most important -- artillery or infantry. In discussion of exactly when his brother will be heading over (last we've heard is sometime in February), our son stated: "he's only artillery, and since they're not very important, they're probably sending all the important units over first." I'm grateful that, in spite of the conditions, our guys are still able to face each day with humor and the attitude that they have a job to do and will be there until it's done. (Editor's Note: Your son's sense of humor is fearless. As a Ford truck driver, he's stepping on my head and as a fellow Infantryman, I know that the Queen of Battle (Infantry) always needs the King of Battle (Artillery) so they're both important (but I agree Infantry is a little more important...) but thank God for the King of Battle being there and putting the balls where the Queen wants them when a battle heats up).
2) I was one of the fortunate ones to be able to go and to listen to President Bush speak yesterday at Ft. Carson. It was really a great thing to see the leader of our country concerned with how we, the military families are doing. He expressed gratitude to us all and commended us on a job well done. Of course he can't bring our soldiers home right now but does appreciate all that they do for us. He came at a time when our post has been suffering from so many casualities, it was like a shot in the arm for us. It uplifted our spirits and gave us something to hope for. Thank you Mr President!
3) Bob: Thought I might see a mention in daily update that Fox News (Cable/Satellite) station is doing frequent Iraq updates by Col. Oliver North. He is with
4ID 3-66 Armor. He has been interviewing many of our soldiers. Please let everyone know on the chance that their soldier may be one of those interviewed. The reports are approximately on the half-hour.
4) I just wanted to let everyone know how grateful I am at the support from 4th id. My husband is in 4th id Alpha battery and was injured on Oct. 25. He was shipped to Germany and is presently at Walter Reed Hospital in DC. He is doing fine now and should be able to come home in a few more weeks. I went to see him and having to leave was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, and the anticipaton of knowing he will be home any day now is making me even more anxious. Although I didn't want my husband to come home under these conditions, I am happy that he is home and ecstatic that he is doing well. I am so proud of him as well as all of the soliders that are fighting for freedom. Again I thank every one for all of their support. All of the soliders and their familes are in my thougths and prayers. THANK YOU
5) This Thanksgiving Day will be different for many of us! I pray for those families whose Thanksgiving Day will be different forever, for those families who have their sons and daughters, grandchildren, husbands and wives overseas in all parts of the world, and for being able to spend mine with a part of my family. We have a great many things to be thankful but there is always that empty spot when someone you love is not with you......
6) Hi, Bob. We were very excited to receive an e-mail from our daughter (2nd Chem BN, 46th Chem Co.) this morning. Her access to e-mail has been infrequent, at best, so each time we hear from her is precious to us. She says "I am back in the rear at the company for a redeployment briefing, so I’m getting to use the internet. Not much else is going on here, I am finally nearing my time to come home and I’m thrilled but a little chagrinned at the thought of leaving my platoon (and pseudo family) behind with 2 more months to go." She was involuntarily extended in August, and has already extended once to stay with her troops. We are very proud of her dedication, but look forward to the possibility that she could be home by Christmas. We are trusting that God knows what's best, and for His constant protection of all of our soldiers.
7) Could you please rerun the information to order the yellow ribbons to go in car windows that can be ordered from someone at Ft. Hood? I was told you ran around the end of October but I only started receiving your updates recently. (Editor's Note: I don't recall when I ran it so it's easier to ask the FRG or individual who was offering the yellow ribbons to send me the information again and I'll publish it next week).
8) From the wife of a soldier in Fox Troop, 1-10th Cav Recon Platoon: How does it feel to be a soldier's wife arond the holidays? I wake up every morning to conquer another day that just gets me closer to the holidays. To forget my sadness I go shopping for the kids just to see spouses shopping together, laughing together, holding hands, deciding what will be the best present for their child or children. I am not in the Christmas spirit this year knowing my husband is out there fighting for his life everyday, knowing he is going to miss his son turn 6 years old, knowing he will not be here to see their smiling faces when they wake up bright and early in the morning to see all the presents under the Christmas tree. I used to wake up and think one day closer until my husband comes home, now I wake up and think one more day closer to Christmas without my husband. I have seen my husband for a total of 3 weeks since July 2002. It is hard knowing he is 8,000 miles away from me and in danger every day of his life. I do put on a brave face every day for my kids but when I am alone I sit and think about how much I miss him and wish so bad he was here with us for the holidays. I am proud of him and of everyone over there fighting for our freedom! Sometimes I do get selfish and want him home as I am sure everyone is going through. To everyone, have a safe and happy holiday. God Bless Our Troops!!!
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