Chris called this morning and it was wonderful to hear his voice and catch up on how he is doing. More on his call in a bit...On the long drive home yesterday across the wheat, corn and milo fields of Kansas I had time to think about the surge in Iraq and what it means to the men and women of the 2nd SCR. I thought and prayed for our warriors throughout the drive but I couldn't push the word surge out of my mind.
Of course for many in the U.S., surge is a word that has become a political football that gets kicked around almost every day in the media. For me, I believe that our warriors on the ground in Iraq view it as anything but a game - simply put, it is war and they put their lives on the line every time they suit up with armor and move outside the wire.
For the 2nd SCR, the surge is a way of life. Based on our conversation with Chris and the news releases, many of our 2nd SCR warriors are out of their stryker vehicles and on foot patrols...using what has been termed "soft knock" clearing procedures. In many areas but not all...this has brought the Iraqi people to our side. All from having our warriors in the neighborhoods, getting to know the people and winning their trust. Soft knock - this means the 2nd SCR is living with the people they are protecting and working to win over their hearts and minds. Trust does not happen over night...it takes time, interaction, and assurances that our soldiers are there to help the Iraqi people get up on their feet and embrace what we take for granted - democracy...freedom...a radical concept, eh?
Does it come without risk to our men and women? Absolutely not! Determining friend/foe in an environment where men, women and children live and freely move is difficult...even on a good day...so the risk is always there...always confronting them...
On to Chris' phone call...he sounded really good...upbeat, but a little tired. We were careful to avoid any questions that would endanger opsec but we still got a pretty good feel for his tempo by "reading between the lines." Generally speaking, they spend 16 hours a day wearing the armor, locked and loaded and on patrol/guard duty. That leaves eight hours for rest...then they do it all over again. This may be unique to his unit and their mission - so don't assume your loved one operates with the same battle rhythm.
Chris indicated his unit was out and about on foot patrols meeting the locals and working neighborhood to neighborhood. This matches the story and pictures I posted on an earlier blog you can read by clicking here. Chris said the locals seem to appreciate their presence and the work they do to prevent Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) from being implanted on the roads in and out of the neighborhoods...he also said they especially enjoy it when they pass out water and candy...but the soldiers of the 2nd SCR never, ever let their guard down - the price of complacency can be too costly.
Chris related a story of a young Iraqi boy who approached him while on patrol and spoke in Arabic. The young boy, probably sensing Chris didn't understand him, began making a kicking motion with his leg. The interpreter with Chris' unit joined in and confirmed the young boy was indeed asking for a soccer ball, which unfortunately Chris did not have. This, in a nutshell, is probably a day-to-day occurrence for our soldiers on patrol...the necessities of life (i.e., water)...mixed in with the special things our soldiers pack in and give away...candy, soccer balls for the kids...wow, we take so much for granted don't we?
A number of care packages had arrived for Chris and he indicated that, just like the others, he shared his contents. He indicated nothing goes unused in the care packages his team receives...and they are oh so grateful to receive them. For those of you who have taken the time to send one to Chris - thank you!
So for those who have been asking - as you can see, Chris is fine and taking care of business - just like the other warriors in the 2nd SCR are doing. Continue to pray for his safety and that of the entire 2nd SCR. Your thoughts and prayers are so very important...
Chris, I remember you every day buddy. I am so proud of you and your service - keep your head on a swivel and be safe!
v/r,
- Collabman
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4 comments:
I'm so glad you have connected with Chris and have tuned into his battle rhythm. I also appreciate the local connection and how we can help Chris & his team reach out to the Iraqi population, especially the kids.
I'm curious to know how long it takes for packages to arrive from the US to IRAQ and what other symbols of peace we might offer to help bring the troops home soonest!
Thanks for sharing your personal life with the world CM - it's comforting to know we can all make a difference by simple gestures and we appreciate the opportunity to do so!
CJ
I know you are relieved to have heard from Chris. It makes breathing a little easier. I'm glad he has gotten into his battle rhythm. My hope for him and the rest of the 2SCR is that as they continue to walk the streets among the people that their journey continues to become safer. You were right to have said that they can still never let their guard down. As awful as war has always been, it is even worse when your enemy is dressed like everyone else. Even in the old western movies you could tell the good guys from the bad just by looking at what they were wearing. A real cliche, but the truth.
I continue to pray for Chris and your family and all those who are fighting for freedom.
I just returned from the Women of Faith conference were the theme was "Amazing Freedom." Praise God for his Son who has truly set us free. Without Him, we'd be nothing. Without Freedom, the true freedom that only a personal relationship with Jesus Christ can provide, we are sad souls without a cause, without a purpose, losing our way and wondering why we are were we are in life today. I pray that Christians around the world, to include those bravely serving in Iraq, receive the courage and wisdom to proudly and boldly share their faith with those who are not free. Thank you again for sharing your story and allowing us to see God working through Chris and your family.
Ms Jo - thanks for your comment...we appreciate the words of strength and faith...
v/r,
- Collabman
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