Call From Iraq...

A US soldier from from the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment scans a street during a patrol at a market area in Baghdad, 20 January 2008. JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images

Evening and happy Tuesday...

Our phone came alive about 1030pm Sunday night and yes, it was Chris! It was wonderful to hear his voice and he sounded good...strong and ready (it was morning in Iraq) to get started on the work 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment had in front of them this week.

We chatted about his health, which is good, things he needed, his team's morale and most of all what he wanted to do when he came home in May for R&R. He spoke of the packages he had received and his thankfulness for everyone's kindness and generosity. All in all Chris is well and staying strong...

I have been asked by some..."What did I see and sense during this phone call with Chris?"

I saw a young man who has matured beyond his 20 years...he knows he has experienced things that he will never forget, seared in his conscience forever...I saw a young man who is confident in what he does, enjoys life, considers it an honor to wear the uniform of the United States Army and believes in what he is doing in Iraq...all the while, never, ever complaining...I sensed from talking with him that he has his head in the fight everyday but during his down time his thoughts turn to his special lady who he is crazy about, his time at home during R&R and the warriors he serves with...

My conversation with Chris made me reflect on the words written by David Smith, The Guardian...

"The confidence of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment platoon was infectious. If you had to trust your life to anyone, these professional men with their hi-tech weapons would be high on the list."

Call me crazy, but that is what I saw during this last phone call...confidence, commitment, loyalty and sacrifice...I would trust my life to him and the 2nd SCR...would you?

What have you seen while talking to your loved one?

A quick look through today's stream of news shows the 2nd SCR continuing to apply the pressure in the various areas they are operating in...

For example...

Richard Tompkins, Middle East Times wrote an article today called In Iraq fear still grips Diyala's people describing the challenges still confronting the 3-2 SCR as they operate in the Bread Basket...spend some time with it...

Also, this video from CNN's Michael Holmes, shows a part of Iraq where U.S. troops have never been before -- New Territory in Iraq -- it is a good look at the direction the fight in Iraq is headed...

Chris, I love you son and appreciate so much the time you spent with us on the phone. Thanks for the call! I remember your sacrifice everyday and we can't wait for your R&R...

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman