Dog Days of Summer...

SPC Chris Stevenson, Dog Company, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment talks with Iraqi children in the Diyala province, Iraq.
(CDS Photos, Inc.)

"We've put out the forest fire. Now we're dealing with pop-up fires."

Army Col. Tom James, a brigade commander who is on his third combat tour in Iraq

Evening...

The dog days of summer...a phrase I am familiar with, having grown up in the heat and humidity of a midwestern state. I expect many of you can identify with the phrase too.

Our warriors operating in the Diyala province understand the meaning...and feel it every day. Some days, 24x7. If you don't believe this, check the weather readout on the right side of my blog...

Also, did you catch this report? Analysis: US now winning Iraq war that seemed lost

As I leave you with photos of "Dog" Company warriors, please continue to pray for them as they deal with numerous threats in Diyala...

Chris, I love you son...be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman

SPC Shawn Derrick, Dog Company, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on patrol in Iraq.

(CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Brandon (Robo) Robertson, Dog Company, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment on patrol in Iraq.

(CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Shawn Derrick, Dog Company, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment takes aim with his sniper rifle in Iraq.

(CDS Photos, Inc.)

SPC Eric Strick, Dog Company, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment takes a break in Iraq.

(CDS Photos, Inc.)