Defence Force Careers

Ok, for all those people who just aren’t smart enough to cut it in the real world and considering the Military as a career option, here are some of your (somewhat unlimited) options….

Engineering

Engineering represents one of the most exciting and challenging fields you could possibly be involved in with the Navy, Army and Air Force.

From day one, you'll get the opportunity to work on significant civilian and military projects, in fields as diverse as aeronautical and aerospace, armament and weapons, electrical and mechatronic, marine, mechanical and civil engineering.

Trades and Apprenticeships

The Navy, Army and Air Force need highly trained technicians and tradesmen to ensure every piece of equipment – from ships, jets and tanks through to missile systems, telecommunications networks and electrical generation equipment – is maintained to the highest level of operational readiness. The opportunities and benefits on offer are exceptional.

Health and Science

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has a great need for Doctors, Dentists, Psychologists, Nurses, Surgeons, Physiotherapists, Radiographers, Pharmacists, Enviromental Health, Preventative Medicine specialists and many other career streams.

Communications and IT

If you have an interest in Communications or Information Technology, what better way to be exposed to some of the most sophisticated cutting edge technology in the world than with the Navy, Army or Air Force.

There are a huge range of positions open to you that could have you working with an incredible diversity of technology such as deployable satellite communications systems, Local Area Networks and information systems, and radar and guided weapon defence systems. The modern battlefield commander will also have access to services such as voice, data, facsimile, E-mail, video, teleconferencing, and satellite communications.

Logistics and Support

The primary role of logistics in the Navy, Army and Air Force is to keep personnel and machinery on the move. Whether that be organising, equipping, re-supplying, packing, dispatching, transporting – it's up to those employed in the various areas of logistics to ensure every item associated with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is where it should be in a timely manner.

Logistics Officers, Air Dispatchers, General Hands, Supply Operators, Transport Officers and Clerk Supply.

Business and Administration

Effective, accurate and timely administration is critical for the management of the vast resources of the Navy, Army and Air Force.

Being one of Australia's largest supply organisations, the Australian Defence Force relies heavily on the vital support provided by its administration professionals. Areas such as human resource management and planning, administration, strategic personnel management, recruitment, training, financial management, record keeping, pay and financial advice provide exciting opportunities for anyone looking for a career in business and administration.

Combat and Security

Navy, Army and Air Force Combat and Security careers put you at the frontline of the defence of Australia.

Using a huge array of sophisticated hardware and firepower, you could be directly involved in ensuring the safety and defence of not only Australia but of foreign countries through UN Peacekeeping missions around the world. Leopard Tank Crewmen, Artillery Officers, Riflemen, Military Police and Special Forces soldiers all fall into this category. However, there are also other jobs to choose from that play an equally vital combat related role. Fighter Controllers, Air Surveillance Operators, Airborne Electronics Analysts, Intelligence Officers and Seaman Officers are all critical to ensure Australia's combat capabilities are second to .

Hospitality

The Navy, Army and Air Force are an exciting, yet somewhat different place to develop your hospitality skills. You'll find the choice of hospitality careers and training similar to that of civilian equivalents. You may find yourself involved in all aspects of food preparation from purchase and preparation through to the serving of the finished product.

Specialists

Navy, Army and Air Force Specialists, perform a wide variety of jobs in very diverse and interesting environments. Photographers, Musicians, and Chaplains, through to Clearance Divers, Combat Systems Operators and Firefighters, to name but a few, all fall into this field of military expertise. All specialists are trained to the highest levels in their particular job to equip them with the skills needed to deal with the challenges they face on a daily basis, which could occur on base, on a ship or even on deployment throughout Australia or overseas.

This is just a start, some basic information off the Australian Defence Force Careers site. Obviously I could have gone right into detail. However, I really didn’t feel I needed to, to make the point. And the point?? These are NOT the people who couldn’t cut it elsewhere. Look at the opportunities available, you can literally do ANYTHING in the Military. They are people who choose a career AND the responsibility to serve. That makes them EXCEPTIONAL in my book. There are career opportunities here that cater to anyone.

I think we undervalue our Military and those who choose to serve in it way to much. But hey, that’s just me.

Mel

Bandit.Three.Six: One Day Closer

As he's closing out his tour, my Wingman in Iraq has an excellent post up about the current situation in Iraq:

In much more significant news ... when was the last time you heard a civilian body count? I sure haven't been hearing those headlines of "Hundreds die every day in Baghdad" like I used to. Could that maybe be because civilians aren't being killed by the hundreds? ... curious Maybe it has something to do with the Iraqi Security Forces. Listen to what MG Caldwell had to say about them: In total today, there are six of 10 Iraqi army divisions in the lead, 30 of 36 Iraqi brigades, and 90 of 112 Iraqi battalions in the lead. And we operate in support of them. All across Iraq, we continue to see an increasingly capable Iraqi security force continuing to take the lead. [And let's not forget two whole provinces!] There have been isolated clashes recently in locations around Iraq between the militias and government of Iraq forces, such as in Amarah, Diwaniyah. We've seen sectarian violence in Balad and Saba al-Bor, primarily between Sunni and Shi'a. These clashes have garnered sensational headlines, however, they are not clashes that had uncontrolled continued violence. What we saw, to the credit of Iraqi security forces and local leaders, was some action. In each case, Iraqi security forces, acting on their own, played a critical role in quelling the violence within days. Local leaders, both political and religious, in coordination with Iraqi security forces, came together to take action necessary to prevent the violence from spiraling out of control. So what we see in actions taking place all over Iraq is that Iraqis are taking charge of their country, and they're doing it valiantly. Violence will flare up again in areas that are under Iraqi control. The question will be, can they handle these situations themselves? In all these incidents they did; they responded and they returned calm to the areas. The Iraqis brought an Iraqi solution to an Iraqi problem, which is precisely the strategy for Iraq. Yeah ... it's quite the quagmire here. Ya know, I don't claim that the strategy or our execution of it is perfect, but what I do claim is that it is working. People portray things as lost and beyond control, that everything we're doing is 180 degress off course in order to further their agenda, whatever it may be. These people are wrong. There may be a better way to win this war, but this is the way we're doing it and we are winning. (Read More)

Godspeed, Buddy.

Now hurry up and get home to your family. You deserve it.

-MG

Before I Forget...

Ahem........

I don't wanna toot my own horn, but, if you want:

• Add Master Gunner to your MySpace Friends!
• Add Cav Tanker to your MySpace Friends!
• Vote For TankerBrothers on Milblogging.com by adding us to your favorites!
• Sign our Battle Roster!

Y'know, because we value your patronage 'round these here parts.

Hoo-Frickin'-Ahh!

Now THIS Explains The 'Cut And Run" Crowd!

Aw, Man! Why didn't I think of this before?!?!?!

Men's testosterone levels declined in last 20 years NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A new study has found a "substantial" drop in U.S. men's testosterone levels since the 1980s, but the reasons for the decline remain unclear. This trend also does not appear to be related to age. The average levels of the male hormone dropped by 1 percent a year, Dr. Thomas Travison and colleagues from the New England Research Institutes in Watertown, Massachusetts, found. This means that, for example, a 65-year-old man in 2002 would have testosterone levels 15 percent lower than those of a 65-year-old in 1987. This also means that a greater proportion of men in 2002 would have had below-normal testosterone levels than in 1987. (Read More)

It makes perfect sense, doesn't it?

Thank God we haven't seen this problem 'round these parts... We've got Baby Tanker to prove it!

-MG, with H/T to Drudge

The Fallout Continues....

Y'know... he should have really thought about what he was saying.

BOSTON -- The mother of a local Marine who was killed in Iraq spoke out Tuesday about the comments that Sen. John Kerry made about U.S. troops and education. NewsCenter 5's Jim Boyd reported Tuesday that while talking to a group of students in California, Kerry urged them to study hard or else they can "get stuck in Iraq." "I am very disturbed. I am very insulted and very sad that he doesn't understand how highly educated and well trained our military men and women are," said Debra Booth, whose son was killed in Iraq. Second Lt. Joshua Booth died on Oct. 17. His mother said that what makes Kerry's words so offensive is that they come one day after Kerry called the family to offer condolences. "We did appreciate the call. I am appreciative of anyone who reaches out to me and to then turn around and say something that is so totally incorrect," Booth said. As to whether Kerry should apologize, Booth said that Kerry needs to do more to make amends ."In addition to apologizing, he needs to learn a little bit about what our men and women in the military are actually made up of," Booth said. "We don't want to send that kind of signal, that you only go into the military if you are not good at anything."

-MG

Oh Canada!

Just heard a very short interview on CBC radio with a Captain Patrick Tower. Captain Tower, based in Edmonton, was just awarded the Military Star of Valour,one of the highest military honours in Canada, for his actions on August 3, 2006 in Afghanistan.

It is not on the CBC site, so I will briefly recap what this hero did.

At 4am on that date a convoy of APC, with 25mm cannons on, was on their way to an old school where they knew Taleban usually hid out.

Captain Tower was in the lead vehicle when the third vehicle in the convoy hit an IED. It exploded and Cpt Tower went back to "deal with the casualties...while being aware of maybe more IED's." Cpl Reid was fatally injured, and the platoon Commander was wounded. Vaughn Ingram, one of Cpt Reid's best friends who he had trained with, took over command.

The interviewer (regular host on this afternoon show) was trying to be all dramatic but Cpt Tower calmly deflected her questions.

Int: When did you know you were in trouble?"
Tower: Oh we we were not in trouble."

Tower was also very matter of fact as he described how later his friend, Ingram, was also killed on this same mission. Tower then assumed control of the troops.

Tower was asked: "How do you wrap your head around that? Your best friend has just been killed."

Cpt Tower: " You have 30 guys looking to you for decisions, and you have the mission.
We are a very well trained army. I had a job to do and I did it."

Cpt Tower is back in Canada right now, and was asked if he would go back to Afghanistan. Without hesitating, he replied "Yes, probably in February 2007".

And as always seems to be the case with all troops, Captain Tower brushed off any suggestions of heroism.

"This medal is for all the platoon. I was just doing my job".

Captain Tower may reject the title "Hero", but to me, he and ALL the troops "just doing their job" are heroes.

THIS Canadian thanks YOU Captain Tower, for doing your job.

brat

They Did It!

ABC News' Johnathan Silverstein and NPR's Xeni Jardin arethe only two journalists who have gotten it exactly right!

I already published the link to Xeni's article, so here's the link to Mr. Silverstein's:

Security or Censorship: Concern Over Soldiers' Blogs Military Bloggers Face Increased Scrutiny Over What They Post By JONATHAN SILVERSTEIN Oct. 31, 2006 — - Frustrated by the media's coverage of the war in Iraq, which they felt left out the good and instead focused on grim body counts and gory car bombings, two brothers from Texas decided to put out the message they thought wasn't getting through in the form of a blog, TankerBrothers.com. "Master Gunner" and his younger brother "Cav Tanker," who prefer not to use their real names, are two soldiers from Texas serving in tank divisions in the U.S. Army and running one of the hundreds of military blogs, or milblogs, maintained by service men and women. The blogs offer people back home a view of the war zone through the soldiers' eyes. For Master Gunner, the milblog movement is a vital tool in keeping the public accurately informed. "After every war, we celebrate the letters and words of American soldiers sent back to their families," he wrote in an e-mail. "Movies and documentaries are made about them. This is the first war where you can see our thoughts and words right in front of you, in near real-time. You can read about the schools we helped open last week or the graduation of hundreds of Iraqi policemen that we'll patrol with. And you can read it from the words of the guys that are right there." But while the blogs serve an important public relations function, they also represent a source of great concern for the Army. Fearful of operational security, or OPSEC, violations that could even inadvertently disseminate sensitive information to the enemy, the Pentagon has ordered some blogs to shut down and other milbloggers are calling it quits for fear their sites might get them in trouble... (ReadMore!)

After the horrible job the AP did, I was really surprised that ABC News and NPR got it right!

Comments?

-MG

Now THAT'S Respect For Troops!

And this schmuck wanted to be President?

[EDIT: Kerry is too good for apologies]

Kerry lashed out at the White House at a press conference in Seattle this afternoon for attacking him for his comments. The White House, however, called on Kerry to apologize for troop-bashing. A defiant Kerry refused.

[EDIT2: My good buddy and fellow Tanker James Frank Solis has an excellent commentary]

-MG

Verbatim!

Master Gunner has recently been asked a few times to answer questions, or give interviews to the main stream media. Often misquoted, or whole points missed that he considered crucial, MG took to posting, verbatim, interviews he has done. To continue this tradition, below is the word for word copy of MG's latest with Johnathan Silverstein of ABC News.

This is how Silverstein describes his role:

please keep in mind, because this is for the Web we're almost like our own little news organization so we're act with a lot of autonomy -- we hardly consider ourselves "mainstream media" thanks to our dotcommie status. I am very respectful of the stories I am covering and work very hard to ensure they are balanced, accurate and do not take answers out of context. With that said here are a few questions, feel free to add anything you think I'm missing or that you feel is important.

For the record here is a transcript of Silverstein and MG email questions and answers:

Sir:

Q: Why and how did you start TankerBrothers?
A: We started Tanker Brothers back when we were deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom 2. It was right around the 2004 Elections, and we were starting to get a little concerned that the American Public was starting to show a drop in morale for the War effort, while Soldiers' morale was way up. The Associated Press, in particular, would give daily updates on how many Soldiers we were away from a set milestone. 1000, 1500, 2000, etc... We saw what happened to our Dad back in Vietnam, and that led to his request for a second tour. He told us: "At least in Vietnam, you could shoot the people that were trying to get you killed..." We have some of the same factors in common with that war: a hostile Media, a rabid anti-war movement, a violent insurgency that targets civilians, and some members of the American Public that try to aid and abet the Bad Guys.Just like back in Vietnam, we would make so much more progress in the country that we're fighting in, if we didn't have to win the hearts and minds of the people right here in our own country. But even if there are many similarities, there are some pretty significant factors that are in stark contrast: an all volunteer Army, new tactics, better equipment, etc...

Q: Tell me a bit about yourself and your brother -- interests what you want to do in the future and why you joined the military.
A: We are both Texans. We're both Hispanic, grew up comfortable Middle Class. Both went to Private Schools, we both played sports, as well as academic extracurricular activities. I joined up when I was 17 - I needed my Mom and Dad's permission. I wasn't ready to go to college, and turned my back on a National Hispanic Scholarship. I wanted to not only read about History, I wanted to live it. I wanted to make history. I enlisted as an M1 Tanker. In the fourteen years I've been in, I've done just that: I've deployed all over the world, spent ten years stationed in Germany, and got a chestful of ribbons to go with all my experiences. My brother was a little bit older when he joined, just as things were starting to heat up in the lead-up to the War in Iraq. He'd seen what I'd done, and he wanted to be a part of that. So he turned his back on a lucrative job in Dallas, and joined up as an M1 Tanker like his big brother. We deployed to OIF 2 together, and we're going to deploy together again. To be honest, I wouldn't want it any other way.

As for what we want to do in the future... I want to stay in the Army as long as the Army will have me. I love what I do. We both do. We are both 100% committed to retiring from the US Army.

Q: Are blogs like yours important? Why?
A: I'm not going to tell you that our Blog is "important", because it's much bigger than that. TankerBrothers.com could go away for ever, and there will still be hundreds, thousands, of Soldiers who will work tirelessly to get the real story of the Iraq War out. They'll tell the American Public about the different projects we're working on to bring comfort and security to the Iraqi People, and they will tell you about the thousands of Bad guys hat they are responsible for killing or capturing. But most importantly, they will tell you about the deep sense of frustration we all feel when we get slapped in the face when all the good news is ignored. I've been called a warmonger, I've been insulted, etc... but I don't care. Because if just one person gets informed, then I've done what I set out to do.

So in that sense, no individual milblog is "important". But the MilBlog movement, THAT is what is important. After every war, we celebrate the letters and words of American Soldiers sent back to their families. Movies and documentaries are made about them. This is the first war where you can see our thoughts and words right in front of you, in near real-time. You can read about the schools we helped open last week, or the graduation of hundreds of Iraqi policemen that we'll patrol with. And you can read it from the words of the guys that are right there. You don't read the polished words of some MSM reporter ho is scared to get out of his Green Zone hotel room, and pays the Iraqis to bring him news (and yes, Sir, I've seen it. It happens, more often than your industry cares to admit - how about an expose on THAT?). You read the actual words, mispellings and grammar errors, of the guys who are actually kicking in doors and hauling bad guys off to jail. That is the type of knowledge and experience that is crucial to getting the truth out.

Q: It's been said that the best PR people to promote the military and the war are soldiers. Why do you think the Pentagon is clamping down on milbloggers?
A: Honestly? Because of a few people who post things that may be sensitive in nature, and of intelligence value to the bad guys. Here are some considerations, for example, that I follow when I post (I sent some of this to the AP guy, but he didn't use it, so feel free):

http://mikegulf.blogspot.com/2006/10/opsec-ap-and-cya.html

and especially this:

http://mikegulf.blogspot.com/2006/10/another-fine-mess-youve-gotten-us-into.html

Here's an excerpt:

I have not found clear-cut guidance in terms of MilBlogs as to what constitutes an OPSEC violation.

But...this is not necessarily a bad thing. With our current Army structure, a huge amount of responsibility and tactical freedom is given to the commanders on the ground to accomplish their missions. This is crucial in an asymmetrical warfare situation. We fight on a 360 degree battlefield, unlike previous conflicts (where we fought a linear battle, along clear physical lines). The danger is all around US forces: on the ground, in the air, on the airwaves, and on the internet. The internet is perhaps the best intelligence-gathering asset the enemy has. So OPSEC is crucial when posting to and publishing personal websites. In an era of Google and Yahoo search, anything is literally at the fingertips of a bad guy who is looking for some info.

That is why Command oversight is so crucial.

Do I think clear-cut guidance is important? Yes. However, that guidance should serve as a starting point for the Tactical Commander to make his assessment, and then adjust accordingly according to the immediate threat and the amount of information that is being made available.


Now, Felderbaum completely ignored this entire statement, and made it seem like MilBloggers are rising in revolt. That simply is not true. In terms of this Blog, my first loyalty is always to my Army, My Mission, and my Fellow Soldiers. If something I write is detrimental to any of those three, then I won't post it, or I'll delete the entire Blog. And I won't have any problem with it.

Q: Do you think milblogs can help fill in the holes left by mainstream media in painting a more complete picture in how things are going in Iraq?
A: Yes. Most definitely. Because the MSM doesn't even paint a picture. Y'all (And I'm not speaking of you specifically) just paint everything Red, and leave it at that. "If it bleeds, it leads", right?

Q: Many people outside of the military see soldiers are being trained to be somewhat robotic and not free thinkers and that a blog is not an appropriate way for a soldier to express him or herself. Do you agree or disagree and why?
A: I completely disagree. And anyone who has that point of view is not only outside of the military, but completely clueless. Our Leaders in the US Military, from the lowest Team Leader (Corporal or Sergeant) all the way up to Four-Star General have an incredible amount of tactical responsibility and freedom. They have the ability to make tough decisions when it comes to preserving the lives of the Soldiers under their Command, and the accomplishment of the missions they are assigned. Leaders in a 360 degree battlefield don't have the time to call up for every single little decision they have to make: they must act. That's where training comes in. Our Officers and Non-Commissioned officers are the absolute best in the world. They are more informed, more situationally aware, and more competent than any other Soldier or Leader in the history of Warfare. The US Military does not train robots. The US Military trains Soldiers.

Q: What's your opinion about the mission in Iraq and how it's going?
A: The mission in Iraq is a righteous mission. The average Private in the US Army has a better understanding of the reason we are there than 99.9 percent of the American Public. I believe that a democratic and stable Iraq is crucial to victory in the Global War on Terror. Democracy in a region where the people are kept destitute by regimes who seek to only enrich themselves would lead to the empowerment of the citizens of those regimes. A Free Iraq would someday lead to a free Syria and a free Iran. If we can prove to the people in those countries that Democracy works, and free market economies and a good relationship with the West would increase the standard of living, I think you would see a huge increase in the quality of life for the entire region. I invite you to read "The Crisis of Islam" by Bernard Lewis, and take a look at the literacy rates for Iraq, Iraq, and Syria. Compare them to the United States. Look at figures like GDP, Per Capita Income, and especially factors like infant mortality and life expectancy. Compare them to the West. Do you realize that more books have been published and translated in Spain in the last five years, than have ever been published or translated in the entire Middle East (with the exception of Israel), ever? Doesn't that raise some red flags in Liberal-Land?

Depots and tyrants use religion to keep the common people down. Enrich yourself and rattle your saber to the West, while telling your people that it's Allah's Will, and you will have no problem doing whatever you please.

I think the mission in Iraq will be successful, if we are allowed to fight the war the way we need to. I think that with the support of the American People, and the support of our government, we can win this war, and help the Iraqi government stand up a capable and effective Police and Security force, in the model of the United States. We will win, because our culture can't afford us to lose. We will win, because we are Americans, Brits, Australians, and a host of other nations that have the strength and tenacity to do the right thing. We will win, because we're on the right side of this war. And I am proud to fight in it. Again and again.

Q: You said your brother has deployed, can you explain and give any details on his job? What about yours?
A: It's best to just say that we are two M1A2 SEP Tankers (Armored Cavalrymen).

I hope this helps. Let me know if you need anything else.

-MG



*And there you have it. Straight from the 'horse's mouth, and happy to share with anyone who cares to listen! In his own words, MG proves, yet again, this THIS soldier is not the mindless robot the mainstream media would have you believe that all soldiers are! THIS soldier is committed to this mission, and knows WHAT that mission is. Unlike many of the naysayers, and the name callers(of which we have a few here - Good morning y'all!) MG and his colleagues WILL get this job done. Articulate, educated, passionate about making a better life for complete strangers the other side of the world, THIS soldier proves that with the right training, equipment and support - and the coalition partners of course! - Iraq is a better place. So, as I saw recently on the SA board "if you can't stand behind us, feel free to stand in front of us"!



brat

Words Of Encouragement!

From Xeni Jardin, National Public Radio:


I thought NPR was Lefty? Xeni: You've done alot to change my opinion of National Public Radio.

Maj. Randy Zeegers, 20th Special Forces Group, Alabama National Guard (second from left) instructs me on the proper use and handling of a large rifle in sniper training at the "America's Army" booth, E3 2006. The gun weighs about 40 pounds without ammunition, and about 60 when fully loaded. That's pretty heavy. It was not loaded at the time this polaroid was snapped. One would not operate the weapon from this position. Instead, the weapon would rest on a tripod, low to the ground, and the sniper looks through the scope (which terminates just above my left shoulder) at the target. Here, my right index finger is positioned just next to the trigger, but not on it. The soldier at far left recently returned from duty in Iraq. He is wearing typical sniper concealment, fashioned from burlap and mesh. When the alien zombies come from space, I will be ready to fight and defend Planet Earth (Read More)

Tanker Brothers and Sisters, read Xeni's article on the Milblogging movement. (Via Wired News)

Flashback from last year...

Words of wisdom from none other than our very own Master Gunner!!

I thought this was hilarious, wanted to share...

Friday, October 14, 2005 The Curse Of The 72 Virgins ...Okay, so I'm listening to talk radio this morning, and the host is discussing suicide bombers in Iraq. He mentions on how they kill dozens of people in order to terrorize people into doing what they want. The whole time, I'm thinking, "Why would anyone volunteer to be a friggin' suicide bomber!?!?!?!?!" Then the host starts discussing how these suicide bombers are promised everything from money for the surviving members of thier families, to the fabled "72 virgins". Supposedly, if a guy blows himself up in the name of "jihad", he'll be rewarded with 72 virgins in heaven. 72 virgins. Then the little gears in my head start turning. Are these poor, dumb bastards so whacked out on Arabic water bongs that they aren't thinking straight? Without further ado, my rationale for why 72 virgins would NOT be such a "reward", or what I fondly refer to as "The Curse Of The 72 Virgins": 1. 72 virgins = 72 birthdays you have to remember, or else you risk the wrath of the 72 virgins, which would then become the "72 Nagging Wives". 2. 72 birthdays = 72 birthday presents, all which would have to be of equal value, else you invoke the aforementioned "72 Nagging Wives". It's also pretty damn expensive. 3. Who says the virgins are attracted to you? What if you're not thier type? Don't the virgins get a say-so in all of this matchmaking? Have you seen some of the losers that become jihadists? I mean...come on! For Example: 4. You'd better hope heaven has a good health plan. Can you imagine how much birth control would cost for 72 chicks? And "oh, by the way", Muslim women don't work? Good luck, buddy. 5. 72 virgins = 72 extra mouths to feed. And your broke ass can't even pay child support. Fugheddaboutit. 6. Flip-side to #3... considering "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder", who says they're beautiful to you? What would happen if you ended up with 72 unsightly (by your standards) virgins? For eternity? You willing to (literally) bet your life on the chance you would get some good-lookin' virgins? 7. If you sleep with one of the 72 out of order, guess what...? You now have 71 pissed-off virgins. 8. I know some guys that can't handle ONE woman, and these guys wanna make a try at juggling 72? Good luck, dummy! 9. Ummm...last I checked, guys can be virgins, too. Are you SURE you wanna (literally) bet your life on the chance you would get 72 female virgins? 10. 72 virgins = 72 "headaches". If you couldn't get any "play" when you were some loser jihadist, do you REALLY think you're going to have any "game" when you DIE? Tip: you'd better bring LOTS of Tylenol up to heaven with you. Oh, yeah...and Midol.

-Mel

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 31 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Fasting today is CHTRBX!! I believe this is chtrbx's first fast, so lets be sure to give lots of encouragement in the comments section!!

Today, chtrbx is dedicating their fast to the female soldiers.

I decided to dedicate my fast day to the female soldiers, especially the moms, who I know must miss their children so very much.

I can't even imagine how much those Mom Soldiers miss their children!! A great group of people to fast for!

~Tracy

Liar Exposed!

Lefty Comment trolls, beware! If we catch you in a lie, you're gonna get busted out!

Earlier today, someone commenting under the handle F.Pittman posted this comment:

The Left, hateful idiots they are? Don’t think so…The “Left”, able to see past their ideology to find the truth. As a member of the military and the “Left”, this war is obviously not a winnable war. It’s time to start thinking about the best way to end this. I’m not one to want to swallow defeat, but it’s better than seeing another troop die for a lie. F.Pittman | 10.30.06 - 9:10 pm | #

Of which I am supposed to naturally assume that, being a military person, F.Pittman is beyond reproach. How can I go against a fellow Soldier?

Wrong.

It's a common tactic of the Anti-War Left: produce someone with what appears to be military credibility, then howl like banshees when someone dares to take a position contrary to theirs.

Sorry...but we don't play that game here in Tanker Brothers Land. Being a newer reader, though, F.Pittman, we would have let you slide, if you hadn't self-exposed your lie just fifty minutes later!

Sure soldiers have volunteered but for what? Did they volunteer to protect their country or get involved with a preemptive war that is as much about the president’s ego, power, and corruption than anything else! It gives me hope for our country’s future that soldiers find ways to speak out against their government and leadership. This is what separates us from the terrible powers from the past. I was all too egger to go off to Iraq when I did. I believed what we all where told (WMD, Iraqi freedom, regime change and so on…). Now that I am finally out of the military, am able to consume a balanced diet of news, and am no longer forced feed FOX news. I know all the angles to this argument. I’ve never been Bible beating, chest thumping, war monger. I’m somewhere between pro-defense and a pacifist. So I’m able to see that the war is a LIE, and no one is winning except the war profiteers. I just wish more soldiers could see the truth for what it is. It doesn’t matter in the end if there is some positive things going on in Iraq. The truth is that Iraq is a complete disaster and will continue to be until we get the hell out. When we do get out, and you can bet we will be getting out sooner rather than later, all those positive things will probable wont matter because there are too many negatives. You can’t just white wash the scores (some say more than 600,000) of innocent Iraqi deaths. Those families won’t remember the candy from a US soldier, or the playground built. They will only remember the Death and Destruction. So anyways….It doesn’t matter if a poll showed that a vast majority of Americans thought of the war in a positive way or that we are winning…What matters is what is actually happening. We have already lost this war. It’s just a matter of when we as a nation will admit that it’s lost and get out of Iraq and hopefully demand some accountability at the highest levels of the Pentagon and white house. F.Pittman | 10.30.06 - 10:00 pm | #

So... in a period of fifty minutes, you were in the military, then cleared, did your separation physical, and then ETS'd?

WOW.

That's bad...even for a Troll.

Just my opinion...

During the First World War, after the death of 6,500 Australians in the first week on the shores of Gallipoli, 36, 000 men volunteered to fight.

Almost 90 years later, after the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre, record numbers of Americans joined the military to serve their country. As it stands, that force, from the US alone exceeds 1 million people.

From all around the world, countries joined the fight that became the Global War on Terror.

What does this mean??

As an Aussie, I grew up with the spirit of the ANZAC’S (Australian & New Zealand Army Corps). In Australia this is our proudest tradition. We celebrate this culture in a way unique to us, as only Australians can. But it is not our patriotism that is unique. Not by a long shot. For patriotism is the one common factor as wave after wave of service men and women depart their respective countries to fight in the same war, The Global War on Terror.

These people are our best and brightest, make no mistake. They are people who heard the call to fight and whole heartedly responded. Yes that’s right, WHOLE heartedly.

They are family men and women, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters. They are adolescents who choose to forego the irresponsible ‘Rite of Passage’ stunts we so enthusiastically engage in as we wander blindly into adulthood and instead they fight their way through Recruitment and the harsh realities of Boot Camp.

At a time when the average teens biggest problem is finding a job/course at Uni that interests them or that Guy/Girl just not being interested in them, these men and women are preparing themselves for a minimum of 12 months in another country, fighting a ruthless enemy to keep their loved ones free and safe. In the face of domestic adversaries who proclaim to fight for ‘The rights of service men and women’, they stand proud for they have no desire to fight a war from the comfort of their lounge chair. They know what they have to do.

As we wake each morning and fight to drag ourselves out of bed and begin our day, theirs has likely already begun. As we sit at our desks trying to decide what to have for lunch, their decision is made for them. When we decide we can’t be bothered cooking dinner and dine out, they eat what is offered, for a restaurant is just not an option.

While we dress to suit weather conditions, they dress for safety. When we get bored at work and surf the internet or call a friend to pass some time, they stand their post, steadfast and unwavering.

When the worst thing imaginable happens to us, we indulge ourselves in a couple of days off, drowning in self pity. They soldier on.

So what would make a person do this?? Why would a person take on that most ardent of patriotic roles… To become a soldier??

A sense of pride in themselves and in their country? A sense of responsibility to protect and serve the country and people they hold dear? The belief that their actions can greatly benefit the lives of others? The fervent desire to see innocent people live a prosperous and fulfilling life, free of tyrannical rule?

We can not know what drives them; each soldier has their own reason for doing what they do that is uniquely theirs. What we can do is thank them. We can support them. We can allow their sacrifices to inspire us to our own greatness.

We can not stand in judgment, for we have NOT earned that right. But we can aspire to fulfill our own destiny, to honor their belief in the freedoms for which they fight.

And each day, we can remember them in our prayers.

God Bless Them All

Mel

Couldn't Have Said It Better Myself: The Great Blog Scare of '06!

I was reading one of my new favorite blogs, War In The Sandbox, and Tadpole has an excellent post up on the importance of MilBlogs.

If you want to understand why the DoD shouldn't be so heavy handed with Bloggers who play by the rules, you should read this:

I picked up the latest copy of Stars & Stripes at lunch today. I don't read it too often, it's mostly crap. However today's headline definitely caught my eye. In big bold letters "Watching your blog". I have been reading reports about a 10 man Virginia National Guard team that has been stood up to keep track of blogs, and that the DoD is gonna start looking more carefully at blogs. I've noticed a lot of military bloggers seem to be a bit worried. Some have even gone so far as to voluntarily shut-down their blogs. This sort of self-censorship scares me. It should scare you too. Don't get me wrong, I certainly understand the need to maintain OPSEC. I carefully review my posts to ensure they don't violate any OPSEC guidelines. The last thing I want to do is aid the enemy. However, it strikes me that the DoD may be making a huge mistake by putting enough of a scare in Military Bloggers to cause some to silence themselves. The 'War on Terror' is not very popular these days. When it does make the news (which doesn't seem to be often), it's usually bad news. Those of us serving on the front lines are much more likely to draw a more realistic picture of what is going on. We are also more likely to highlight the positive things we are doing. Every reporter has an agenda. Soldiers, sailor, airmen & Marines do not. We only want to share our stories. If anything, I think the DoD should be encouraging Military Bloggers. The civilian news media loves to over emphasize deaths, and negative news. Gore sells. But it does not tell the whole story. Now don't get me wrong, I do not mean to belittle the deaths of American GIs, no one is more appalled than I am by the fact that on average we lose one soldier every nine hours. However, if we are to draw an accurate picture of the war, we must talk about the good things those soldiers are doing also. The civilian news media tends not to mention the schools we build, the medical missions we conduct, the clinics we build, the training we give the local populace, the roads we build, the promise of a better future we bring. Our positive efforts in Afghanistan can not succeed unless we have the complete support of the civilian community at home, and we can not reasonably expect to get that support if the only news they here is negative. The fact remains that every Major News Outlet in the United States has a political agenda. Their stories are tainted by that agenda. I have an agenda also. Mine is to let the people know the truth, as best I can. I will promise this much... If I am asked to change or remove an article due to an OPSEC violation, I will. However, I will not be silenced, and I most certainly will not voluntarily shut down my blog. Our story must be told, and it must be told in a manner commensurate with the sacrifices we make daily.

[Edit: I had to post his whole article. He's having bandwidth issues.]

-MG

And You Want Us To Leave?!?!?!

I know, I know, some Anti-War crazed nut will find some way to blame US Soldiers for this:

(AINA) -- According to the Assyrian website ankawa.com, a 14 year old Christian Assyrian boy, Ayad Tariq, from Baqouba, Iraq was decapitated at his work place on October 21. Ayad Tariq was working his 12 hour shift, maintaining an electric generator, when a group of disguised Muslim insurgents walked in at the beginning of his shift shortly after 6 a.m. and asked him for his ID. According to another employee who witnessed the events, and who hid when he saw the insurgents approach, the insurgents questioned Ayad after seeing that his ID stated "Christian", asking if he was truly a "Christian sinner." Ayad replied "yes, I am Christian but I am not a sinner." The insurgents quickly said this is a "dirty Christian sinner!" Then they proceeded to each hold one limb, shouting "Allahu akbar! Allahu akbar!" while beheading the boy. Translated from Arabic by AINA

so...do we leave, and let thugs roam the countryside, killing Christian Children? Attacking civilians?

Or do we stay, kill or capture the Bad Guys, and train the Iraqi Security Forces to prevent atrocities like this from happening?

Didn't some troll that leaves comments in here call them Freedom Fighters? What, pray tell, did this 14 year-old Christian Boy do to deny them freedom?

H/T to LGF

-MG

You're Welcome...

H/T to Proudly Serving

-MG

But I Thought Us Soldiers Wanted Out Of Iraq?!?!?!

At least, that's what these idiots are telling us.

But why the heck are we seeing stuff like this?

FOB PROSPERITY, Iraq – Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, raise their hands and recite the oath of re-enlistment during a ceremony at Forward Operating Base Prosperity Oct. 3. Thirty-six Soldiers from the 4th BCT re-enlisted inside former Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein's Presidential Palace, in the International Zone in central Baghdad. The mass re-enlistment marked the brigade's first large scale retention event since the start of the new fiscal year Oct. 1.

Huh? Did I miss something?

Waitasec... here's something strange: the 4th Infantry Division is on it's way back to Fort Hood, after serving a year in Iraq. As soon as they return, all that "Stop Loss" stuff goes away. So...why the heck are these people reenlisting? Are they dumb? They could get back and then get out! Throw their ribbons over a fence/wall/whatever!

Nah.

They're staying in because they're strong.

Army-Frickin'-Strong.

Which is more than I can say for the "Cut 'N Run" crowd.

(YOU KNOW WHO I'M TALKING TO!)

-MG

Progress!

Iraqi police and soldiers captured members of a bomb-making cell and several weapons caches over the weekend.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2006 – Iraqi police and soldiers captured members of a bomb-making cell and several weapons caches over the weekend. Special Iraqi police forces with coalition advisors yesterday captured nine members of a bomb-making cell and a cache of weapons, improvised explosive devices and components for making IEDs in Kut. Iraqi police secured and searched multiple objectives and detained the bomb maker and other cell members without incident. The IED cell is responsible for attacks against Iraqi civilians employed by coalition forces. They are also suspected of constructing and placing IEDs in and around Kut. A mortar system, assault rifles, full ammunition magazines, grenades, a completed IED and components for building other IEDs were found and secured during the raid. Operations on the objective caused minimal damage. (Read More)

There is progress being made in Iraq. Good news. Follow the link and read the rest!

There IS good news out there, you just have to know where to look!

brat

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 30 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Fasting today is Rick H. He is fasting for his brother, whose birthday is today. Rick's brother also served in Vietnam.

Rick, keep us updated on how the fast is going!!

~Tracy

"Tell them in America about the children in Iraq,"

So said a mother, on a rare visit with her son to a local park in Iraq. In the Washington Post on 27th October, is an article about families and their children reclaiming parks that since the violence, have been unsafe places for them to play - BE children.

Excerpts include:

>>>>>>

Joys of youth rediscovered
At Tofaha, younger children sat stiffly on swings and on the saddles of merry-go-rounds. Play was something that had grown unfamiliar to them.

Twelve-year-old Maisa Mohammed moved among them in a holiday ensemble of heels and a blue chiffon gown, with purple sunglasses and, in her hair, an orange ostrich plume. She had come here Tuesday and Wednesday as well.

Older children like Maisa helped younger ones climb ladders to slides and taught them to pump their legs on swings. "I was dreaming to come here, to play," Maisa said. Except for school, she said, she hadn't been out since last Eid.

Five-year-old Mutaz clung, unsmiling and unmoving, to his grandmother each time she put him on a piece of playground equipment. His mother, Dunya Abdul Rahman, 34, scrunched her face when asked the last time she had taken Mutaz outside the house. "Phoooh!" Rahman exclaimed, trying to think. "Six months."

.......
"We are having fun!" shouted Mariam and Batool, two next-door neighbors, answering questions as they soared on swings, their hair flying. "We are not afraid!"

......

At the slide, the children who remained broke into smiles each time their feet landed in the dirt at the bottom. They huddled there for a second before running off, overcome by excitement. Maisa, her orange ostrich plume still high, slid again and again. She stored up the exhilaration that would take her through to next Eid, if war didn't overtake her.

"One time, in a year," Maisa said. "Every year."



Read the rest of the article here:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15450497/

We have to win this one, for the children. THEY deserve the freedom to play in their parks every day of the year - not just one day.

posted by brat

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 29 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today we have a veteran faster, Aussie Chic! I just chatted with her in IM and she's well into her fast already~time difference and all that! She is fasting for two very special men:

Today my fast is for the 2 men who instilled a deep respect for the military in myself and my siblings. One I never met, though I often felt I knew him from the stories we were told. The other is one of my favourite people in the world, whose stories I never grew tired of hearing (even when they were sometimes on a daily basis). So to Uncle Ben, thankyou. And Pa, your stories still bring a smile to my face, though you've been gone so long. You never tired of telling them to me, even when I sometimes asked to hear them 3 times a day. You started and fuelled the fire that has brought me to where I am today, here on Tanker Brothers.

Sounds like two incredible men! Keep us updated on how your fast is going!

~Tracy

Confidence In The Global War On Terror Sees Slight Increase!

Could It Be?

While the number is still short of a majority, I think it says alot about the fact that due to the upcoming Congressional Mid-Term elections, more Americans are thinking about the War on Terror and the security of the United States.

The most recent Rasmussen Reports update survey on the War on Terror shows a slight rebound in confidence among the American public. Thirty-eight percent (38%) of adults surveyed say the United States and its allies are winning the war while 29% say terrorists have the edge. Twenty-four percent (24%) say neither side has the edge. Earlier this month, the public assessment was much more bleak. Just 31% thought the U.S. and its allies were winning while 36% gave terrorists the advantage. In spite of the recent outbreaks of violence in Iraq that have made the news of late, the public’s assessment of the situation has improved. When asked how the state of affairs in Iraq will develop over the next six months, 27% say they will improve and 49% say they’ll get worse. Those numbers were 24% and 54%, respectively, just a few weeks ago. The percentage of those who believe the U.S. mission in Iraq ultimately will be deemed a failure also has dropped from 55% to 49%. Nearly one-third of respondents (31%) say the mission will be a success. With his approval ratings sinking across the country, the public’s improving outlook on Iraq failed to extend to President Bush’s handling of the situation. Half of all Americans (50%) now give the President a “poor” rating for handling handled the situation in Iraq. Impressions of our national safety also have taken a slight dip. Slightly more than one-third (34%) say the United States is safer than before the attacks of 9/11 and 47% disagree. Responses to this question are very clearly divided along party lines—65% of Republicans believe the United States is safer and 61% of Democrats believe the country is not safer.

Like I said before: these numbers aren't great, but they are definitely better.

Of course, they are polls, and polls can be notoriously misleading depending on the methodology of how they are taken.

While I am not personally "big" on polls (remember, even though the Polls swore that President Bush wouldn't win the 2004 election, they were dead wrong, since the President received over four million votes more than his challenger), some people appreciate numbers.

Here are some numbers I would personally like to see:

1. Percent of Terrorist who think the War on Terror is succeeding
2. Average life expectancy of a Terrorist in a firefight with US Soldiers
3. Percentage of Terrorists that realize they are cowards for refusing to stand toe-to-toe with US Soldiers

'Cause inquiring minds wanna know...

Coalition.....

I saw a beautiful thing yesterday. 4 young girls playing in the park. Ok, now I can just about hear you all asking why this was so beautiful. Let me tell you. 2 of these children were Muslim, 2 were Aboriginal. In a world where religions and cultures clash resulting in war and hatred 4 children played together without a care in the world.

Now, many would say this is simply that they dont understand the differences in their cultures. Come a little closer and I will tell you a secret..... They dont care!!

I sat there watching these children play completely in awe of the innocence of youth. When we are young we ostracise people based on the most simplistic of ideas. He pulled my hair, he broke my pencils, he ate my lollies. There is no Because his religion is different, her skin is a different color, their family came from another place.

I live in the "Lucky Country", a multi cultural mixing pot of customs and religions. My country has a Live and Let Live approach to these differences. We are not free of racial tension, but what country is?? We have a wonderful lifestyle that my country men and women fight for as part of the Coalition.

I remember a conversation I had with one of these soldiers when I had asked why he had joined the military. He told me he had wanted to since High School, but after 9/11 he knew he had to. That's right, after another country was attacked on it's own soil, one of my country men joined the military to serve in the combined effort that is the Global War on Terror.

This war has only 2 sides, it really is that simple. And yet, so many of us talk in terms of this country did this or that country did that. Let me tell you people, any time there is one country standing at the fore front, there is another bringing up the rear and neither is more important than the other. It is the combined effort of the Coalition that will bring about victory in this war.

We all have pride in our countries for their efforts and what they stand for. I know I love being an Aussie. It is pride in ones country that compels them to fight for the freedoms that they and their countrymen enjoy. But make no mistake people, when this war is won, it will be because of a combined effort. And we will not just win a war but share an ideal. That we can all live together, despite differences in culture and religion.

With that in mind I am going to ask you all to let your mind drift back to when you were young. Back to a time where we played with the other kids regardless of race or culture. To any soldiers who may read this, I'm going to ask you to take the time to say hi and introduce yourself to a fellow soldier from another country. To all the loyal readers of the Tanker Brothers I am going to ask you to slowly break down the barriers that stand between you being a patriot to your country and a patriot to the Coalition and make room for patriotism to both.

For only when the ideal of the coalition becomes a way of life and not just empty words will we truly find world peace.

Mel

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 28 October 2006!!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Taking up the fast for us today is our very own PCMom. As we learned during her last fast, she has a son in the military and he was recently deployed! Today, she has a few more special men she will be fasting for!

Today is my Happy Birthday, so go ahead and break out the cake! Just don't tell me how good it tastes. Seriously, I am fasting for all the men and women who are in harms way. Those who celebrate their own birthday away from their loved ones. I have chosen to send out a case of Little Debbie's Snack cakes to my guys today. With a wish that they all know we are thinking of them on their own special day. I am also honoring my big brother Capt. 'Bro'. He has been my rock through the war. Taking time to explain the uglies, never sugar coating, yet helping me feel somewhat at peace. Thank you for being there to pull me out of the dumps time after time. And one more... My Buddy "Rod"... The Little Debbie's are coming your way! Thank you for fighting the Good Fight for us back home!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PCMOM!!

I don't know about the rest of you, but I think she is brave to fast on her birthday!! I know I'd have a hard time not eating all the treats that come with that day!

Keep us updated PCMom!

~Tracy

By Request: Iraq - The Real Story

News You Don't Hear: Iraqi Army Assumes Responsibility Of Northern Ramadi!

Yeah...THAT Ramadi.

RAMADI, Iraq – The Iraqi Army assumed responsibility of an area in northern Ramadi Oct. 24, 2006. The 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade of the 7th Iraqi Army Division, commanded by Colonel Kareem, officially assumed battle space at a ceremony on forward operating base Blue Diamond. “We will serve with honor,” Colonel Kareem reminded his Soldiers. “We have been given the great responsibility of being in charge of this area.” Task Force 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment has been partnered with 3-1-7 IA for the past five months and has witnessed the unit’s development. “This is a big step,” said Lt.Col. Daniel Walrath, Commander Task Force 1-6, “[They] are increasing their battle space by three fold [and] will develop concepts and plans of operation for northern Ramadi.” Task Force 1-6 will continue to provide the Iraqi battalion support, but are confident about their progress. Colonel Kareem reinforced to the Iraqi Soldiers that they will continue to learn from their Coalition partners and make Ramadi a safer place. The battalion recently proved their capabilities during a validation operation which resulted in the capture of four anti-Iraqi forces. The occasion marks the second battalion in two weeks Ramadi to assume battlespace and is an important step in the continuing development of the Iraqi Army and represents the future security of Iraq. PHOTO: Task Force 1st Battalion 6th Infantry Regiment, hands off the official flag of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Division, to the Iraqi Army color guard during a transfer of authority ceremony at forward operating base Blue Diamond on Oct. 23. The 3-1-7 IA will assume responsibility of an area in northern Ramadi, after only 11 months of training. (Read More)

News You Don't Hear: Iraqis Taking Responsibility for Country!

BAGHDAD — The Coalition here is increasingly shifting from a lead role to a supporting role in Iraq, as Iraqi Forces take responsibility for more territory and security operations throughout the country, a U.S. military spokesman in Iraq said Thursday. In a news conference from Iraq, Maj. Gen. William B. Caldwell IV, Multi-National Force - Iraq spokesman, said that although Iraqis are taking more responsibility, the Coalition and Iraqi-shared goal remains the same: a free and strong country with a representative government that respects and protects the rights of all its citizens and can be a valued ally in the fight against extremism. “While we can help create the conditions that are necessary for progress, the achievement of our shared goal is ultimately the responsibility of the Iraqi people and their elected leaders,” Caldwell said. Caldwell noted that Iraqi Army units continue to take the lead in their areas of operations. On Tuesday in Ramadi, the 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 7th Iraqi Army Division, assumed responsibility in its area of operations. Now six of 10 Iraqi Army divisions, 30 of 36 Iraqi Army brigades, and 90 of 112 Iraqi Army battalions are in the lead, he said. (Read More)

Consider, if you will, that one of the most important phases of our victory in Iraq is the training of the Iraqi Army. As the IA gets stronger and better trained, responsibility for the security of their sectors transfers to the IA.

This serves a very important purpose: it builds confidence in the Iraqi people in their government's ability to keep them safe. The Coalition won't be in Iraq forever, and the Iraqi people need to step up and police after themselves.

Passing over responsibility is an important step in that goal.

Stupid Lefty Tactics... I'm Not Surprised!

Shoot yourselves in the foot, why don'tcha?

Some wingnut decided he/she would be clever and sign up the RVF email address to a bunch of Lefty mailing lists: Hallibutron Watch, ACLU, some abortion sites, etc...

Clever... right?

Wrong.

See, sending an email back to the organization saying you were signed up without your consent, and telling the Mailing List Administrator that any further emails will be flagged as Spam and reported for abuse.

That usually gets an interesting response from the list administrator. No one wants their "legitimate" traffic to be tagged as Spam.

So, dummy (and I know who you are), you're actually doing those organizations more harm than you are me. All I have to do is cut and paste a response informing them what the deal is. Too easy.

But, this is good in the sense that it points out to the readers here one very obvious fact: that when it comes to logic and reasoning, your arguments and viewpoints can't stand up to the truth.
As a result, you, and the rest of your crazies, have to resort to tactics such as this. And I'll wear that like a badge of honor.

It means our side is winning.

Hoo-Frickin'-Ahhh!

-MG

Thank you!!

In the interest of balance, and in direct contrast with the "Redress ..." thing here, is a link to something that took my breath away. I could say LOTS more but I won't.

Just watch this and THANK YOU!!


This will take your breath away, God bless our soldiers


Turn on your speakers and be still...

Click here: Thank You !!!

[edit: Okaaay - that didnt work so I am going to ask MG to post this link. It really IS amazing....*sniff* Watch this space]




posted by brat

Deja Vu all over again

I was raised on stories of my family's struggles in the Blitz, and in Nazi Germany. Many heroes in my family, both in the military and on the home front. Many stories. And my first memory of an American soldier? Won't surprise many of you :) When I was a little girl, (shocker I know!) American troops based in England used to host Christmas parties for neighbourhood kids. I went to one and have vivid memories - especially of salted popcorn - to this day I can't eat that! But my first memories of US troops are kinda like the picture Leta shared with us of US troops in Kosovo, and the pictures we see of the US troops in Iraq "terrifying" the local kids...riiiiiiiiiiight..

So here we are again - and once again the coalition forces are standing together - US, Canadian, British, Aussies, etc etc...all determined to beat another common foe...

Your president talks of "smart and dedicated civilians" and the common goals we share. Just as the leaders back then must have spoken (and if you haven't heard any of Churchill's recorded speeches you just haven't lived!) THIS civilian may not be too smart (what was my official score MG? GT29??????) but I AM dedicated. We cannot know what the road ahead holds. All we can do - and must do - is keep our eye on the prize. Together, the troops, and us on the home front, CAN reach our goals.

We are all in this together. We WILL prevail. Never doubt!




op/ed posted by brat

In Case You Forgot:

I wanted to post this article in its entirety, because the American People, and all citizens of all our Coalition Partners, need to understand exactly how crucial our victory in this war is.

And who better to convey that message, than my Commander-In Chief?

WASHINGTON — Winning the war on terror in Iraq is critical to American defense, President Bush said Oct. 25 in a White House news conference. Bush largely spoke about changes to Coalition strategy and tactics in Iraq. “Our security at home depends on ensuring Iraq is an ally in the war on terror and does not become a terrorist haven like Afghanistan under the Taliban,” the President said. America’s goals in Iraq are unchanging, but the methods must be flexible, he said. “On the military side, our commanders on the ground are constantly adjusting their tactics to stay ahead of our enemies,” Bush said. “We’re refining our training strategy for Iraqi security forces so we can help more of those forces take the lead in the fight and provide them better equipment and firepower to be successful.” The Coalition increased advisors in the Iraqi Ministry of Defense and Interior to help Iraqis plan and execute operations, Bush said. And the United States changed force structure in Iraq as needed to counter enemy activity. “Most recently we have moved Iraqi and Coalition forces into Baghdad so they can help secure the city and reducesectarian violence,” he said. However, he added, after some initial successes Iraqi and Coalition operations to secure Baghdad have encountered greater resistance. “Some of the Iraqi Security Forces have performed below expectations,” the president said. “Many have performed well and are fighting bravely in some of Baghdad’s toughest neighborhoods. Once again, American troops are performing superbly under difficult conditions. Together with the Iraqis, they have conducted hundreds of missions throughout Baghdad.” But military power cannot win the war alone, Bush said, noting the Iraqi government has to take steps to solve problems contributing to the insurgency. “In addition to refining our military tactics to defeat the enemy, we are also working to achieve a political solution that brings together Shiia and Sunni and Kurds and other ethnic and religious groups,” Bush said. Bush delineated a three-step approach to Iraq. First, Coalition officials are working with political and religious leaders across Iraq urging them to take steps to restrain their followers and stop sectarian violence. Second, U.S. officials are helping Iraqi leaders complete work on a national compact to solve the most difficult issues dividing their country. “The new Iraqi government has condemned violence from all quarters and has agreed to a schedule for resolving issues such as dissolving militias and death squads, sharing oil revenues, amending the Iraqi constitution and reforming the de-Baathification process,” the President said. Third, the United States is reaching out to Arab states such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan and asking them to support the Iraqi Government’s efforts to persuade Sunni insurgents to lay down arms and accept national reconciliation. Bush called these tasks daunting for any government, but particularly so for a government that has been in place only for just over five months. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s unity government “has to solve a host of problems created by decades of tyrannical rule, and they have to do it in the midst of a raging conflict,” Bush said. The United States will continue to press the Iraqis to move quickly, the President said. “We’re making it clear that America’s patience is not unlimited,” he said. “Yet we also understand the difficult challenges Iraq’s leaders face, and we will not put more pressure on the Iraqi government than it can bear.” He said the strategy as Iraq moves forward is to help Iraq’s government grow in strength and assume more control over its country as soon as possible. Bush said the American people want to win in Iraq. “They will support the war as long as they see a path to victory,” Bush said. “Americans can have confidence that we will prevail, because thousands of smart, dedicated civilian and military personnel are risking their lives and working around the clock to ensure our success.”

I want you to pay particular attention to that last paragraph: President Bush is talking about the tenacity of the American People. Americans are legendary for seeing conflict through to the end: remember WWI and WWII? Remember the Cold War? The American people during those conflicts were committed to victory: they knew we had to win.

Take WWII for example: why did we get into a war with the Germans? They hadn't attacked us. They presented no immediate threat to the American People. (Do these arguments sound familiar?)

So why did we fight them?

We got into WWII because we recognized the aspirations of the Germans: they wanted to expand and dominate, and the cost of the freedoms and lives of millions of people. Poland fell, the France fell. Europe was crumbling. And the United States realized that in order to provide security for the entire world from the specter of Nazism, Germany would have to be taken down. And they would have to be defeated at any cost.

Millions died during WWII, and the Third Reich fell. Europe, or the world, has never seen a war on such a grand scale since.

Until now.

Now, we're fighting a Global War on Terror, against an enemy that wears no uniform, hides among civilians, and targets those same civilians. The enemy's motivation is hate for those not like him. His goal is to dominate the world and to subject it to his religion, to his beliefs, and to his rule. To Al Qaeda, the world population will submit to Islam, convert to Islam, or die. That's it.

There are no other choices.

Imagine the choices the French, the Czechs, or the Polish were given by Germany in WWII. Imagine the choice that was given to the British during the Blitz.

Then, and only then, will you start to see the similarities of both conflicts. Then, and only then, can you also see the differences: Al Qaeda has no borders, they have no state. They can elt into crowds, hide among women and children. They can undermine the efforts of the Iraqi Government to secure freedom for its people, and then crawl back into whatever rat hole it camefrom, to strike again somewhere else.

The enemy is fluid, he can seep though cracks in our intelligence, he can do things that organized armies cannot. He isn't held to the Geneva conventions. He can torture, he can behead, he can murder non-combatants. In his mind, he answers to no mortal man, but instead believes that he wages war on behalf of his god.

This is War, Ladies and Gentlemen.

In War, good men and women die, sacrificing themselves for their goal: Victory. But we cannot allow these sacrifices to be in vain. We must commit. We must win.

We must win.

The future of the world depends on it.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 27 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, 27 October 2006, Tammy Loux is taking over the reigns of the RVF!

Today I will be doing this for the soldiers I have sponsored through the Soldiers Angels program. Since becoming a part of this outstanding program i have been able to meet some wonderful people. I have been able to build friendships that I would have not had the opportunity to have. So today is for Justin, Stephanie, Don, and Don.

Good luck, Tammy, and please be sure to give us some updates in the Comments section of this post! Tanker Brothers and Sisters, be sure to leave Tammy some words of encouragement! We take care of our own 'round these here parts!

"Appeal for Redress"

Okay Americans! Do NOT shoot this messenger please! I am posting a link here. I am sharing this with you all so YOU know what is going on...I don't have the tech skills (yet!) to post excerpts for you - sorry!) Go check it out and do what you need to do. I am not going to editorialise on this one. Just putting this out there. Go Tankers gooooooooooo :)

Link to site

posted by brat as a public service

[EDIT: You can read my thoughts about this in this post...-MG]

Let's talk Family and Kids :)

Did that get your attention???? lol. I found a post today both on Soldiers Angels and Iraq War Today. It is about a group of little girls from Camp Lejeune, who could really use help for a special project! You all know I think every CHILD is one of our own, so I'm going to let Pam of IWT take it from here:

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Camp Lejeune has a troupe of little Heroines that really need your help.

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune's Community Center offers dance classes to kids ages 3 - 10. Instructor Lauren Kelly-Hill contacted local businesses with "we support our troops" signs in their windows, to ask for sponsorship for costumes for the kids' December holiday dance recital, in return for an ad in the recital program.

The kids need a total of $1,200 for their costumes for the December recital. Costumes and other supplies for the larger Spring recital will be about twice that.

Unfortunately, only one business responded - only to report that they were financially committed for the year. I understand that many businesses may have obligations, but I have to say, this is a pretty poor showing for a military town - especially when we're talking about businesses that declare that they "support our troops."

Supporting our troops means supporting their families, too. For many of these girls, it will be a last chance to show off before their Hero deploys - most of these Marines will be away during the Spring recital. So these little ladies really need your help.

Only $1,200 - really not much. I've got a fairly modest readership as blogs go, and if every one of my readers gave only a couple of dollars, we'd have it covered, and then some. A little more than that, and we've got Spring covered, too.

Please consider making a donation to help Camp Lejeune's ballerinas to make their holiday recital special. The donation isn't tax deductible, but as Lauren says, "it IS going for the 40 most beautiful little girls to have an awesome recital with costumes, decorations, and recital photos."

Sounds like a pretty good deal to me.

You can make your donation here

Mine's already in; SA has contributed some, and Laurie from SA New York has, too - any assistance you can provide, no matter how small, will be appreciated.

Thank you for any help you can provide to these little girls. It's going to mean more than you can know to them and to their families.

Link Here
_________________
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If you can pass this on to other bloggers - get the word out about this help needed - or know someone who can help with the $$,will mean so much to these military families....Thank you...:)

posted by brat

From the NY Times - NOT!!!

I got an email this morning which I will share with you here...BUT before you read it I want to copy what my source("somewhere" in the sandbox" said to me when I asked permission to share it with you.) He wrote:

"You can post,

It's public knowledge. It's just not acknowledged by the big media sources. As if it ever will be!"

Nuff said. Here is what he sent me: And no I bet you havent seen this in ANY mainstream media. Maybe someone should ask them WHY?

>>>>>>>>>>

"Anbar Tribes vs. al-Qaeda

Five al-Qaeda, including three Yemenis, are captured by a tribal force in Ramadi
Iraq.

Less than two weeks after 25 of the 31 predominately Sunni tribes in Anbar Province pledged to fight al-Qaeda and support the Shiite led government of Prime Minister Maliki, the tribes have taken a shot against al-Qaeda fighters. Reuters reports five al-Qaeda were captured in the city of Ramadi, “including three foreign fighters from Yemen.”

“The five militants were captured without a fight in a car under a bridge in Ramadi, capital of Anbar province, police Major Salam Obeid said. Tribal leader Sheikh Sattar al-Buzayi confirmed the incident,” reports Reuters. Note that the tribal leaders are willing to go on the record about their involvement in the fight against al-Qaeda. Attyia al-Jaza’ri implored Zarqawi to treat the tribal leaders and cleric with respect to avoid just such a situation.

Abu Ayyub al-Masri (a.k.a. Abu Hamza al-Muhajir), al-Qaeda's commander in Iraq, recently lamented the death of 4,000 “foreign fighters” in Iraq. This figure does not include those captured, such as the three Yemenis in Ramadi.

The arrests in Ramadi may not be the opening salvo of the tribes fighting al-Qaeda. The recent death of Khalid Mahal, the Emir of Anbar Province, as well as the capture of two unnamed members of the 1920s Revolution Brigades may have derived from intelligence provided by tribal sources.

Tags:

* Iraq

By Bill Roggio on September 29, 2006 2:50 PM | Permalink
TrackBack

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://billroggio.com/cms/reference.cgi/3125

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posted by the Brat.....

Keeping Watch, Part 3

Kat here, reporting for duty! Proud and blessed to have been given the opportunity to join the ranks of the Tanker Family, and will happily do all I can to help the Tanker Brothers!

Ditto to what AuntyBrat said: We got yer backs: with lots of luv.

*SWWWOOOOOOOOOOSHHHHH* (That's a Kat & Brat Soldiers' Angels flyby, for those that may not know!)

~ Momma Kat

Keeping Watch Part 2

Today I joined the ranks of Tanker Bros bloggers...:) To say it is a surprise to me is an understatement! But..I have learned, often times in life you have to step up and support what you believe in. So here I am!

I DO support the men and women in the sandbox. They all know this. I am an ardent supporter of Soldiers Angels, and all that they do. I support - is what I do, and why I volunteered to support THIS blog, and these particular soldiers.

My role here will be support. MG and I are still discussing that one ;)
The way I see it, we are ALL stewards/caretakers on the home front while our troops (and yes, that includes the Americans, Canadians, Aussies, Brits, Germans etc) do their part.

Until they all come home, I will be "Keeping Watch". THAT is MY mission.

Thank YOU MG, Cav Tanker. I got your backs...with love

Brat.

Just a Thought....

For once I have chosen to stay quiet on the subject of blogs vs security concerns. To be honest, I don't believe I am knowledgeable enough in this area to comment. However, I will share my opinion on what I believe to be the possible social and emotional ramifications of this decision.

As we have all seen, the Tanker Brothers have an amazing family unit to support them during their deployment. Then of course, there is the extended 'Tanker Family'. This site, their blogs are their way of being heard on a subject that they are truly passionate about. Their contribution to this war is two fold, both ont he ground and online, spreading the word of it's positive outcomes to the masses. I know they certainly helped this novice understand it better.

Now they fight to keep this site, their labour of love alive.

But people, what if they fail?? What if the internet freedoms our soldiers enjoy are limited??

I have the honour and privelige of being able to access the thoughts and emotions of both deployed and recently returned soldiers in various formats, including blogs and home pages. Day after day I see the emotional rollercoaster these brave men and women are on. I have to be honest, this leads me to wonder if the Powers That Be have ever really read any of these.

The internet provides a healthy outlet for these people to share thoughts and fears, negatives and positives. To reach out and find comfort in complete strangers when they find it to hard to confide in family and friends.

It provides the means for socialisation to many soldiers who are at, or nearing an age where they would have been reaching out, looking to meet new people in clubs, through sport or other recreational activities.

I don't know who makes these decisions and on what basis but imagine for a moment you are on your first deployment, you're just starting out, your life experience is limited to high school and boot camp. Suddenly you are in another country, away from your loved ones. You are looking at the same 4 walls, you have the same people as both workmates and room mates. feelings of isolation begin to over whelm you. You're lonely and trying to reach out amongst people who feel the same way.

Ok, if you have never personally experienced this think of a movie where someone had to get something off their chest. What is always the first piece of advice they are given?? Write it in a letter. You don't have to mail it, just pour your heart out. For those who have never done it - it helps. This is what people are doing when they blog. On the other hand, imagine you are sitting across from someone and they are asking you to pour your heart out. What is the first thing you do?? You clam up, you put on a front, you say you're ok.

Every day people are using these internet formats to reach out to other people, build friendships, online communities, support each other in times of need. I truly believe it would be detrimental to the emotional well being of these people to be forced to endure censorship. I think we need to give credit where credit is due. Their stake in their own security is far greater than ours, of course they aren't going to do anything to endanger themselves or the lives of others. The blogs typically take on a more personal aspect anyway. What Milbogs do is encourage patriotism amongst the country men and women of our brave soldiers, encourage support and educate people to the hardships these soldiers face on a daily basis to ensure our continuing freedom.

Where would we be without our Milblogs!!

Mel

Keeping Watch...

(Top)A 1st Lt. from B Company 5-20th Inf. REG., 3-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team out of Fort Lewis Wash., smiles at two Iraqi girls Thursday in the city of Mosul. Soldiers of the 5-20th joined Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army Forces during a community engagement effort in the Neighborhoods of Al-Thawra, Siha and Zangilli in Mosul. U.S Army photo (Bottom)Command Sgt. Maj, 115th Engineer Battalion, Multi-National Corps - Iraq, hands out supplies donated by the Boy Scouts of America during an operation to provide students in a rural district of Western Baghdad with school supplies. Official Department of Defense photo

"And there is no reason, Bob, that young American soldiers need to be going into homes of Iraqis in the dead of night, terrorizing kids and children, you know, women, breaking sort of the customs of the-of-the historical customs, religious customs." -Senator John F. Kerry

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 26 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Please show Leta your support in her RVF day today!

(2 US Soldiers admiring the artwork of children in Kosovo who just finished drawing a US Flag with chalk. - Photo Courtesy of Leta) While my fast today is in honor of every military man and woman and family today I do want to specifically “honor” MY adopted Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors. I want to particularly honor my nephew who is a Navy Corpsman serving with the Marines in Al Anbar province right now. They are fighting a tough fight there as you all know. I also want to honor the 13 Civil Affairs Reservists and 1 National Guard Soldier currently deployed to Kosovo. Most of the Reservists have all served in either Iraq, Afghanistan or both in the past four years. I’ll be seeing them in Kosovo in 3 weeks and cannot wait to get back to them and continue the work we are doing together via Progress Through Peace, Inc. Additionally I want to honor the men and woman I am personally supporting in Iraq (22 of them) and Afghanistan (23 of them). I want to remind everyone to “spread the word” about www.anysoldier.com. It is our “JOB” to support these men and women while they are deployed. No one will ever be able to make me feel otherwise. Finally, I want to say a special thanks to Master Gunner, Cav Tanker and their fantastic family. You all are the epitome of what I feel the American family should be. My respect and love for you all runs very deep.

Good luck, Tanker Sister: keep us posted!

"...Another Fine Mess You've Gotten Us Into!"

Y'know...when I wrote this post, "The Hardest Post I've Ever Had to Write...", I had absolutely no idea how much "push-back" I would get from my Tanker Brothers and Sisters out there. I really didn't anticipate the media frenzy that it's caused, either!

Since that post, I've been contacted by AP, CNN's "the Situation Room", NPR, Milblogging.com, DefenseTech, and a host of other organizations that were up in arms about the recent restrictions placed on MilBlogging.

Here are some excerpts:

From NPR:

I'm a weekly contributor to NPR News. I'm preparing a segment for Friday's broadcast of the program "Day to Day" about word that the Pentagon is cracking down on milbloggers, most notably your terrific blog.... By way of background: I'm a technology reporter based in LA, and don't share much of the cultural and ideological background of most folks at NPR. The story in question isn't about the politics of the war, or US foreign policy. It's specifically about why you're blogging in the first place, and how you feel about the new move to shut you down. I think our listeners would really value hearing directly from you. The piece wouldn't be complete without your voice.

Associated Press:

Since we corresponded, it has come to my attention that you have decided to discontinue your blog as it existed previously. I would like to use this information in my story, and can withhold your name, but I wanted to get comment from you on why you decided to do this. I would greatly appreciate your insight. I am supposed to finish this story today, so a quick response would be grateful. Thank you. What prompted you to decide to take down your milblog, and why? Did you or do you feel that the current policy is ambiguous and makes it difficult to blog? Why? Did you or do you feel that the oversight is OK as long as you're not having your opinion censored?

CNN:

I have been working with Matt (Blackfive) on a segment I want to do today for The Situation Room on the DOD and milblogs. He pointed me to you guys as an example of someone “shutting down.” I had a couple of questions about what sort of “new” pressure you have been feeling lately. Is this just an ISP thing, or something else? You are welcome to give me a ring at xxx-xxx-xxxx if you’d like or email me here or send me a # where I can call you. Whatever works. If you want to chat… Thanks! Jacki Schechner CNN Internet Reporter The Situation Room

That's just three examples of the media RFI's (Requests for info)... here are some posts:

DefenseTech
Milblogging.com

And of course, my good buddy JP, the webmaster of MilBlogging, sent me what we in the military call Flash Traffic: "Dude... you just made USA Today... CALL ME!"

Okay...everybody CALM DOWN. This isn't a big conspiracy against the Tanker Brothers. We've done nothing wrong. We haven't violated OPSEC, this has nothing do to with any imagined infraction. It has everything to do with Operational Security, though. But I want to firmly maintain that we are not being censored.

Let me repeat that: we are not being censored.

I think the response I sent to the AP said it best:

The situation has changed slightly. TankerBrothers.com will stay up, albeit in a slightly different format. We've decided to turn the blog over to a core group of our readers, and instead of the blog being BY us, the blog will be ABOUT us. The aim will remain the same, to combat the negative press about the War, and get the REAL truth out, but unless the restrictions lighten up a little bit, we will mostly be "hands-off", emailing in updates as to our well-being, and anything not OPSEC-related. I'm sure you understand. Also, TankerBrothers will be taking more of a Coalition slant: we have an author from Australia, and possibly a few more from other Coalition Partner Nations with family members serving in Iraq. I don't think the current policy is ambiguous at all. AR 25-1 clearly states that personal websites will not be maintained on Government time or using government resources. I understand this guidance completely, and even though we (or hundreds of other MilBloggers) never compromised OPSEC, I can understand the US Military desire to maintain Operational Security. I believe that oversight on what we say, in terms of maintaining security, is justified. I do not offer opinion in my work, just news and some thoughts. We are committed to winning this war, and with very few exceptions, you will find that hundreds of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines just like me are committed to the exact same thing. None of them would do anything to put their fellow troops' lives in danger. I have not found clear-cut guidance in terms of MilBlogs as to what constitutes an OPSEC violation. But...this is not necessarily a bad thing. With our current Army structure, a huge amount of responsibility and tactical freedom is given to the commanders on the ground to accomplish their missions. This is crucial in an asymmetrical warfare situation. We fight on a 360 degree battlefield, unlike previous conflicts (where we fought a linear battle, along clear physical lines). The danger is all around US forces: on the ground, in the air, on the airwaves, and on the internet. The internet is perhaps the best intelligence-gathering asset the enemy has. So OPSEC is crucial when posting to and publishing personal websites. In an era of Google and Yahoo search, anything is literally at the fingertips of a bad guy who is looking for some info. That is why Command oversight is so crucial. Do I think clear-cut guidance is important? Yes. However, that guidance should serve as a starting point for the Tactical Commander to make his assessment, and then adjust accordingly according to the immediate threat and the amount of information that is being made available. That's why 100% of the information on my site is gathered from Coalition Websites and mainstream media sites, to completely eliminate and and all risk of OPSEC violations. Obviously, Mainstream media information is available to evryone, and Coalition websites have been cleared for public release. Hope this helps.

So...you heard it here first.

TankerBrothers will continue... kind of.

I'm not going to be too proud to ask for help. We've already had two Tanker Sisters step up to the plate and assume posting duties and maintenance of the RVF while we're gone. Ideally, we'd have five, just to "spread the wealth" a little, and so no one gets overwhelmed. Tracy and Mel are the first two to have a go at this.

Keep in mind.. this is just an experiment, to see if we can keep this going, and still not step on any toes. But Cav Tanker's and my role in this will be diminished (don't worry, we'll send updates often to be posted).

Today has really humbled me. I wavered in my strength. And dammit, I'm ARMY STRONG!

So..we'll see how this goes. I would really hate for TankerBrothers to end, as I said, it's been a labor of love for me, and a tribute to my Dad and his comrades.

His "Tanker Brothers".

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 25 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Fasting for today is Tracy (that would be me). I've been reading Tanker Brothers for a few months now. I honestly can't even remember which link I followed to get here. However, it quickly became a daily visit for me as MG has a way of saying exactly what's in my head (opinion wise) and has educated me so much in what is actually happening in the GWOT.

This is my second fasting day. Last week it got a little rough at the end of the evening, but all I had to do was remember WHY I was doing this and I made it through.

Today I will be fasting for our very own MASTER GUNNER and CAV TANKER. These guys have given so much to us through this blog. It's time now for us to give back to them! I'm starting with the fast and volunteering my help on the blog while MG and CT are deployed.

So many Tanker Brothers and Sisters have volunteered to step up to the plate while MG and CT are deployed. That's what makes this group great!!

--Tracy

For My Aussie Readers!

Australian Light Armored Vehicles at Camp Smitty, in southern Iraq, prepare for a convoy to Tallil in late July. Australian Defense Force photo by Cpl. Rob Nyffeneggerh.

You know who you are... LOL!

"I've Got You Covered..."

A US Army Cavalry Scout (19D) from the First Infantry Division provides cover and security for his comrades after his patrol receives enemy small arms fire in Fallujah.

These are the guys, along with Tankers, Infantrymen, and MP's, that are kicking in doors and taking out terrorists.

This, Tanker Brothers and Sisters, is the face of the valiant efforts of the United States Military: our Fathers, Sons, Grandsons, Nephews, and Brothers putting their lives on the line, every single day, to provide for the Iraqi people something they have never known: Freedom.

And as I have mentioned before: a Free Iraq promotes a stable Middle East. A stable Middle East ensures security for the entire world.

Think about that... and let us do our frickin' jobs.

Hoo-Frickin'- Ahhhhhh...

More Troops Needed? Not So Fast...

I used to find the coverage of the Iraq War amusing. Nowadays, I tend to find it downright insulting.

Case in point: what is at the very tip top of Drudge this evening?

U.S. Says More GIs May Be Needed in Iraq

Now, I did a simple search of the text article, and guess what?

3 instances of "Sectarian" referring to violence or killing

3 instances of American or US deaths

The obligatory mention of how many US Servicemen have died in the Iraq War: 2,801

Instances of the word "Terrorist"? ZERO

But.. have no fear, Tanker Brothers and Sisters!

WASHINGTON — Iraqi Soldiers and Police chalked up a series of victories in recent anti-terrorist operations across the country, according to U.S. military officials. First, Iraqi Soldiers captured several suspected members of insurgent and murder and kidnapping cells, including the alleged leader of an al-Qaida in Iraq cell, during a series of early morning raids across Baghdad Friday. Iraqi Forces, with Coalition advisers, conducted three separate raids and detained eight suspects responsible for sectarian murders and kidnappings, as well as Improvised Explosive Device attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces. In a raid in the Adhamiyah area of Baghdad, Iraqi Soldiers detained two suspects responsible for sectarian attacks against civilians and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces. In two other raids in Southwestern Baghdad, special Iraqi Army forces detained four suspected terrorists involved in IED, rocket-propelled grenade and small-arms fire attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces. Two persons suspected of sectarian attacks against Iraqi civilians were also detained. One operation occurred in the vicinity of the Al Mluki Mosque in the Monsour district of Baghdad. Iraqi and Coalition Forces did not enter the mosque and didn't cause any damage to it. There were no civilian, Iraqi Forces or Coalition Forces casualties. The raids were part of Operation Together Forward, intended to disrupt terror cells that kill innocent Iraqi citizens and attack government forces. (Read More)

You still have your three mentions of "sectarian", but guess what? You have two mentions of the guys we're actually fighting! Terrorists.

So...who am I to believe? The Associated Press, reporting from the safety of their hotel rooms in the Green Zone? Or the combat journalists that are actually on the ground, keeping track of all the bad guys we're making sure never threaten Iraqi Civilians. ever again?

Listen: maybe we DO need more Soldiers in Iraq. Maybe we don't. Maybe, just maybe, we have what it takes, and perhaps we need to let Soldiers do what Soldiers do best: fight and win the War in the streets of Baghdad, Ramadi, Fallhujah, and other hotbeds of Terrorist activity.

Maybe we need to let Soldiers do their jobs, and not worry about their efforts being trivialized by a hostile media, a hostile Anti-War movement, and a certain political party rubbing their hands in glee at the prospect of having the power to pressure a withdrawal from Iraq before the job is done.

Maybe, just maybe, we need to worry less about "hurting people's feelings" in Iraq, and let US Soldiers fly the Stars and Stripes with pride from their vehicles. Maybe we need to "cut 'em loose" to hunt down and take the fight to the bad guys, to send a clear message: targeting of innocent civilians will not be tolerated, and will be met with the most extreme violence that the power of the United States Military can bring.

Al-Qaeda in Iraq knows and respects only one response from Dar-Al-Harb (The House of War - of which I am a proud resident, with 1.4 million of my brave roommates): FORCE.

So let's take it to them.

How Is This A New Tactic?

Drudge is reporting that the Anti-War movement is actively seeking military members to speak out against the War in Iraq/ War on Terror:

Anti-war groups are trying to rally active troops to speak out against the war in Iraq - a political tactic they hope will sway voters Nov. 7. A small group of active-duty members opposed to the war created a Web site last month intended to collect thousands of signatures of other service members. People can submit their name, rank and duty station if they support statements denouncing the U.S. invasion. The electronic grievances are then passed along to members of Congress, according to the Web site. "Staying in Iraq will not work and is not worth the price. It is time for U.S. troops to come home," the Web site says. Jonathan Hutto, a Navy seaman based in Norfolk, Va., who set up the Web site a month ago, said the group has collected 118 names and is trying to verify that they are legitimate service members. There are 1.4 million troops on active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserve. (Read More)

Hmmm... 118 troops, out of 1.4 million.

Anyone care to venture a guess how many of those Soldiers are Combat-Arms? You know, the guys actually kicking in doors: the Scouts, Tankers, and Infantrymen? How about MP's (even though, technically, they don't count as Combat Arms)?

Don't worry, Tanker Brothers and Sisters: I did the research for you: here's a link to the website.

Now, as we all know, this is hardly a new tactic. The Anti-War crazies have been looking for Military Vets to add credibility to their message (because they lack credibility of their own). They seem to think that by tacking on a Vet, they immediately become beyond criticism, since no one in their right mind would attack a Vet... right?

Wrong-O!

Being a Vet, I sure as hell can attack one... or more precisely, 118.

Where is your honor? Why will you aid those who would pull us out of a battle, where losing has the most severe of consequences?

Looking down the left sidebar of the page, all my questions are answered with the quote from a similar "vet" from another war:

"Just as it was in 1971, it is again right to make clear that the best way to support the troops is to oppose a course that squanders their lives." John F. Kerry

Meeting a sworn enemy on the field of battle is hardly "squandering lives".

Meeting and defeating that enemy, so that the security of the American People, the security of all citizens of our Coalition Partners, is assured: that is most honorable thing that an American can do for his fellow citizens.

Stabbing that Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine squarely in the back, such as this organization is trying to do...

...Is dishonorable.

But y'all have a history with dishonor, don't you?

Dammit, people! If you don't want to fight: GET OUT. QUIT COLLECTING A PAYCHECK.

Guys like myself and Cav Tanker are more than ready to pick up your slack. I would be willing to bet that we already are! Answer this question: why are Iraq War veterans reenlisting in record numbers, knowing they will return to Iraq within 24 months? Why is the US Army meeting, and in some cases, exceeding, their recruiting targets?

Just leave us alone and let us do what we swore to do: defend and protect the citizens and interests of the United States of America.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 24 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Hey, Tanker Brothers and Sisters!


The Rolling Victory Fast keeps rolling along!

Anyway, in more interesting news, my Dear Aunt Meli is taking over the Rolling Victory Fast today!

Reports of the demise of the RVF were premature. BIG TIME. I got so many emails about it, I don't think we can quit any time soon... So the decision is in Limbo right now.

So show your support for Aunt Meli! And leave some updates!

The Hardest Post I've Ever Had to Write...

This is, without a doubt, the most difficult thing I have had to write, in terms of this Blog.

I'm not going to mince words with you: TankerBrothers is about to go away.

Make no mistake, it has nothing to do with not wanting to Blog anymore: on the contrary, this has been a labor of love for me. I started this blog with one goal, and only one goal: to let the American Public know what was REALLY going on in Iraq. I wanted to tell people about the War being won in the streets of Baghdad, and in the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people.

Unfortunately.... sometimes things don't always work out the way we want them to.

As my readers know, my little brother has already deployed to Iraq, and I'm literally on "the countdown" to when I get on a plane to join him. There was nothing more that I wanted to do than to continue this site, and even "kick it up a notch", since I would once again be on the ground.

With the new OPSEC paranoia, though, I don't think I would have the opportunity. The DoD is cracking down on MilBlogs, and I wouldn't be able to continue Blogging and still be compliant with AR 25-1, the Army's Regulation governing Personal Websites. With the "running out" of local commercial Internet Service Providers in Iraq, the only bandwidth available to me would be government-owned. AR 25-1 states that I cannot use government time or resources to maintain a personal Web Site.

That means that TankerBrothers has to go into hibernation for a while.

Now, unofficially speaking, I think the DoD is making a huge mistake crippling the MilBlog movement. MilBlogs have been instrumental at keeping the American Public informed, and getting the good news of the War on Terror out to people that would otherwise never hear it. And the American public is hungry for news like that. The American public is starving for news like that.

Instead of embracing the movement, instead of helping MilBloggers fight the IO war home and abroad, using their own words and their own experiences, the powers that be have decided instead to put up as many roadblocks as possible to silence the movement.

Many can site First Amendment protections to try and keep the movement alive, but let's be honest. As a Soldier, I'm here "to defend Democracy, not practice it." I have a job to do, and if what I have to say, MilBlogging my thoughts, insights and experiences, has been identified as an OPSEC risk... then I will not put the lives of my fellow Soldiers at risk.

That's one thing I won't do.

It really ticks me off, too, considering we're now on the Military.com Blog page, we're "up there" at Milblogging.com, and we're consistently in the top ten in the BestMilitarySites.com rankings. The funny thing is that we've been featured more times than I can count on "Stand-To" a US Army-published "Early Bird" for US Army Senior Leaders. Hilarious, I know.

So, here's the deal:

I'll still find a way to email posts to someone to keep it "going", but I don't expect anyone to hang around. It will mostly just be "I'm still alive, don't worry" stuff, but it will just serve to keep the Blog active and not canceled.

I honestly don't expect anyone to stick around. When I get back from Iraq, then I'll start it back up again, on my bandwidth and my time. By then, I'll have to start gathering up readers, just like I did over the course of the last few years.

I wish it didn't have to be like this, but I really don't know anything else to do. Any suggestions?

So, that being said, I've decided that Veterans Day will be my "Goodbye Posting", signing off until I get back from Iraq. Unfortunately, Veterans Day will also be the last day (as far as Tanker Brothers is concerned) of the Rolling Victory Fast.

We've made a huge statement with the RVF, and I want you all to be proud of it. Not only did we keep it going long after the Hollywood Nutjobs quit, but we even outlasted Code Pink and Crazy Cindy Sheehan. And I think if we had the opportunity, we would have kept it going forever.

I've really made some great friends from the ranks of my Tanker Brothers and Sisters out there. I'd love to keep in touch with each and every one of y'all. Maybe I'll come up with an email list so I can shoot updates to y'all while we're "in the sandbox". I know that Nelly, my Soldiers Angels sponsor/Little Sister, will have our "real" names/addresses while we're in Iraq. You have no idea how emotional I am right now, and that's kind of hard to admit for a crusty ol' Tanker. I'm going to miss reading the comments of each and every one of y'all.

So... any suggestions?

I came up with a couple of things, but they aren't really up to me:

1. Turn TankerBrothers over to the readers. Give the core group (you know who you are) authoring rights, and step back and leave it in your care. (This is the only way I can think of to avert The End as we know it)

2. The aforementioned one-year hibernation.

3. Email-only updates, and people sign up for the email list.

I don't know... my mind is pretty jumbled right now.

PLEASE...let me know what y'all think.

In the meantime, if you have no idea what I'm taking about (the situation that brought us to this point), you should really read:

Blog Of War Is Now Camo
Another Milblogger Bows Out
US Army watching blogs

P.S.: I'm also emailing this post to my new "good buddies" at CENTCOM Public Affairs, the Milblogging.com Webmaster, and anyone else I can think of. But honestly... I don't think CENTCOM, MNC-I, or even the DoD are going to change their policies for one little Milblog.

Or two little Tanker Brothers.

(They don't get it. They just don't get it.)

[Edit: read a Tanker Sister's Response HERE]

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 23 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today is a very special, very significant day in the Rolling Victory Fast.

Today, we honor and remember one of my Master Gunner Brothers, SSgt Donald C. May, Jr.

I am fasting for Don. Today is his birthday.....he would have been 35 years old. While Don was in Kuwait, waiting for the war to start, he wrote, "I really do hate that I have to leave you for such a long period of time, especially with you being so far along in your pregnancy. I hate it like Hell. But I have to do my job and I'll gladly do it if it means Mariah, Jack, and Will will never have to in the future." I will forever honor and love my husband SSgt. Donald C. May, Jr.. I will tell our children that their father was a HERO, a MARINE, a TANKER, one of the finest men on Earth.....a military man that dedicated his life to our country. I am fasting for Don and all of our military men and women that sacrifice everything by leaving their loved ones to protect us. God Bless them and keep them safe.

If you aren't familiar with the relationship I have with SSgt May, please read my tribute to him. If you'd like to see more about SSgt May, please take the time to click on his photo, in the sidebar to your left..

Deborah... God Bless you and your three children as your family remembers SSgt May on what would have been his 35th birthday. I'll be saying a prayer in his remembrance.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 22 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, PC Mom (That's Proud Cav Mom to YOU, CopperJet), is continuing her extended leg of the Rolling Victory Fast!

And she's doing it in honor of a very, very special Cavalry Trooper:

Today I continue my fast. It was with pride and anxiety that I said good-bye to my Hero yesterday. I watched him climb on the bus ... biting my cheek to keep the tears from falling. He does not like to see his mom worry. A brave young man, yes he is a man now, hugged me and reassured me that he would be fine. God Bless our men and women in harms way and keep them safely protected under your strong hands. Give them courage in battle. Comfort their weary hearts. Give them wisdom and strength. And most of all, let them feel the love we have for them back home. Me and my Hero! I Kissed My Son Goodbye...

You're doing incredible, PC Mom!

Keep us posted!

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 21 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, PC Mom (That's Proud Cav Mom to YOU, CopperJet), is representing us in the Rolling Victory Fast!

BUT... she's going above and beyond the call of duty to match ME, the legendary Master Gunner, by going for TWO FULL DAYS!

And she's doing it in honor of a very, very special Cavalry Trooper:

Today I fast for my favorite Soldier. My pride and joy. My eldest son. In October of 2002, he took it upon himself to enlist in the Army. He did not wait for approval, nor did he ask for advice. He stepped up and joined like many before him. Those who take pride in America, who want to make a difference. I was concerned. Not for his safety, but more so for his mental well being. For you see my son is a very smart young man. He is also very strong willed. Would be able to take orders? Would he be doing pushups 24/7? I know my concerns seem bizarre. But, if you know him you would understand. When he is right, he does not back down. I did not want the Army to take that away from him... Nor did I want him to be reprimanded, beat down mentally. (We never stop trying to protect and guide our children.) With him being my first child to enter the military, I had to take a crash course in protocol. My first lesson: Sending treats to a child in basic is not the best way to help him ease through. Yet, my son said nothing to me when I sent box after box with homemade brownies. It was another parent who explained the rules to me. Oh, I felt bad. I had to ask him what kind of trouble was I getting him into. His reply, "Mom, keep sending the brownies. All that they make me do is push ups and I can do them all day. Besides my Drill SGT. likes them too." And that is how he faces every obstacle. "Head-on" with a great attitude. My Soldier is very careful to keep me shielded from the harshness of war and the dangers he faces. Today, I honor him and want the world to know he is my HERO! I love you son. Stay tuned tomorrow I will explain why I have chosen to make this a two day fast

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 20 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, Tanker Brothers and Sisters, Ramona is going to be representing us in the Rolling Victory Fast!

Good luck, Ramona!

ALCON: remember, if you want to sign up for a day, send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmailDOTcom!

Also.. an added little bonus: I'm going to join her!

Yep, I'm going to fast as well, in honor of a very special person: my little brother, CAV TANKER, who is deploying to fight the Global War on Terror and make us all proud of him.


Don't worry little bro... I'll be there shortly... keep Baghdad warm for me... DEAL?

(To my Coffee Buddy: don't worry. Starbucks is still "Good To Go"!

You know who you are.)

Leta's Kosovo:

This photo is one of me and the US KFOR Soldiers in a village elementary school last winter. Notice that most everyone is wearing coats. I'm actually in about 4 layers because it was so cold. That school, like most, have NO heat source except the wood burning stove seen over to the right. They had no money for wood last winter and don't this winter either. One of our "missions" this year is to raise money to purchase wood for this elementary school and several others. The young man who is standing in front of me in the photo (with his back to the camera) had asked permission from the teacher to approach me. He wanted to shake my hand and thank me for "caring enough about them to visit." The stories that come from that one visit are all very humbling and emotional to say the least. These kids and teachers have NOTHING - no running water, no indoor plumbing, RARE moments of electricity, no library, no school books, no learning aids, and on and on and on YET they go to school EVERY day and the teachers do the best they can. I was amazed at how many of the children are fluent in English as well as knowledgeable about many subjects I asked them questions about.

Tanker Brothers and Sisters, please take the time to take a look at Leta's Organization!

ARMY STRONG: Are You Strong Enough? (Part Two)

My Beloved Army just issued the most moving damn recruitment video I have ever seen.

(Well, except maybe for my favorite "Be All That You Can Be" commercial from the late 80's when the M1 Tank jumps over a desert berm... but that's 'cause I'm a Tanker)




I honestly think the Army "got it" 100% with the new Army Strong campaign.

When I saw this for the first time today (at my ANCOC graduation rehearsal), I was moved... almost to tears.

I'm not joking.

OPSEC, The AP, and a CYA!

I was recently approached by the Associated Press for a story on the Army Web Risk Assessment Cell:

Hello Sirs- My name is Michael Felberbaum, and I am a reporter with The Associated Press. I am working on a story about OPSEC and the Army Web Risk Assessment Cell, which is monitoring blogs for OPSEC violations. It was suggested by XXXXXX at Milblogging.com that I contact you. I was interested in getting your feeling about the cell and how it influences what you do and don't write on your blog. What do you weigh when you decide whether telling the story is more important that a possible OPSEC violation? Are there clear-cut guidelines? Why do you feel it is important to blog? How long have you been doing it? How long have you been deployed? If you are willing to, I would appreciate your input for my story. I may be able to work around naming you if you are concerned, but if not, please provide your name, rank, service, hometown, and other information you would like me to include, wife, kids, etc. Thank you in advance for your help. mlf

Well, you know I like to be helpful! So I sent the following response:

Sir: I would be more than happy to answer your questions. XXXXXX is a good friend of mine, and if he vouches for you, then you're okay with me. My responses follow: 1. The Army Web Risk Assessment Cell doesn't bother me. I don't even think about them looking at my MilBlog (though I am positive they do read it, based on the metrics of the site). I have been contacted in the past by a similar Cell at CENTCOM Headquarters, offering assistance if I needed it (I didn't). If a Milblogger thinks about the things that he writes, and applies some common-sense rules, then he really has very little to worry about. Here are some sample questions I ask myself before I write or publish a post: a. Could this be used against me or my family by a hostile party to cause us harm? b. Would putting this information out, in any way, put American Soldiers' lives at risk? c. Would enemy knowledge of this TTP (Tactics, Techniques, Procedures) give them a tactical advantage in the IO (Information Operations) war, or serve as propaganda for the enemy? d. Would this post bring morale for my fellow Soldiers up, or would publishing it be detrimental to good order and discipline? 2. Telling the truth is ALWAYS first and foremost in my mind. All too often, in the mainstream media, very little information is presented/reported about the true progress of the War in Iraq. Please don't take offense by that statement. I have more of a problem with Reuters than I do with the AP, but the AP has done it's share of undermining our efforts. Most of the Media is under the impression that US Soldiers are advised or ordered to not speak to the media. That is 100% wrong. We are briefed regularly about the importance of speaking to the Media, even encouraged to do so, and of telling the 100% truth, with respect to OPSEC. We are advised to never, ever, use the reply "No Comment" when responding to a question, but instead "hand off" the reporter to someone who can speak intelligently on the subject. We are reminded not to speculate if we do not know the answer to specific questions, but instead direct them to someone that has more knowledge on a given subject, as opposed to trying to "tap dance" and come up with an answer that we think would please the Media or our Commanders. The reason that many US Soldiers are apprehensive about dealing with the Media (and I'm not going to lie to you, the vast majority of US Soldiers will simply refuse to do so), is because of the feeling that the Media is hostile towards our efforts, sympathetic to the insurgency, and that the Media is "in it to hype the deaths of US Soldiers". While that may or may not be true, that is the perception of many Soldiers. 3. Clear cut guidelines for Personal Websites (Blogs) DO exist, but in Theater Policy Letters and Commander's Guidance, not so much in Army Regulations. To the best of my knowledge, one Information Management Regulation briefly mentions Personal Websites, but stresses only the importance of observing OPSEC and Information Security (i.e.: do not publish sensitive/classified information) and stresses that using US Government Information Systems or time is not authorized for publishing Personal Websites. 4. Why I post: I feel the need to do my part to balance some of the coverage in the Mainstream Media with some of my own observations. While some of the things that are published through traditional channels are true, there is a wealth of information that is never seen or heard by the American Public. They never hear of the hard work our engineers do to repair and build up the infrastructure of Iraq. They never hear of the roads being built, the developing Iraqi Stock Market, the hundreds of insurgents and terrorists that have been captured or neutralized, the schools that open their doors for the first time in years, the thousands of Iraqi Men and Women who put their lives on the line to make a better life for their families by joining the Iraqi Police and the Iraqi Army, the training that the New Iraqi Army undergoes, and the remarkable success that the Iraqi Police have experienced in some parts of Iraq. The American People don't get to see the smiling faces of the Iraqi children when American Soldiers come by. They don't see the targeting of Iraqi Civilians by Terrorist suicide bombers. They never get to see the random mortar fire by Terrorists into Civilian Centers. All they see is the numbers of American Casualties: 1000, 1500, 2000, etc.. like some morbid count that the Media uses to undermine support for the troops. Consider, if you will: we lost more people in the Battle of Iwo Jima than we have lost in three-and-a-half years of conflict in Iraq. Our Soldiers today are better trained, better equipped, and more committed to Victory in a conflict than at any other point in American History. I'm a Tanker. My Little Brother is a Tanker. All my friends that I work with are Combat Arms Soldiers: Tankers, Scouts, and Infantrymen. Along with the Military Police, these are the guys that kick in the doors and capture the terrorists. The Combat Arms Soldiers are the guys that are conducting operations and fighting the battles. And if this war was such a disaster, then why are Combat Arms Soldiers reenlisting in record numbers? Why are the guys that are in the most danger the guys that decide to stay in? And more often than not, volunteer for a subsequent tour (such as the case of my brother and I)? The TRUTH is, because we believe in the fight. To some members of the Media, this concept is unfathomable. The other thing is, members of the Media (and the Left, which we associate with each other...sorry), are always seen as trying to trivialize our service to our country. Many Americans have been led to believe that people enlist in the Army because they have to: for economic reasons, or because they can't do anything else. This is a dangerous misconception. The overwhelming number of Combat Arms Soldiers enlist for Combat Arms because they genuinely want to serve their country. We have some of the most intelligent American Citizens serving in the US Military as Enlisted Soldiers. I have a few Soldiers in my unit who have Bachelors and Masters degrees. I can guarantee you that are graduate school students in the United States right now, that could not pass the US Army's Tank or Bradley Master Gunner Schools, or the US Army's Scout Leaders Course. Combat Arms Soldiers have to manipulate complex digital geo-tracking and communications systems that are integrated into our weapons platforms, and use them to send digital reports to higher headquarters. Soldiers must rely on a wealth of experience and tactical training to make on-the-fly decisions to keep themselves (and the Soldiers in their charge) alive on the battlefield. You would be amazed at some of the SA (Situational Awareness) systems that the average US Army Tanker has at his disposal to accomplish his mission. I am graduating from the US Army's Maneuver Advanced Non-Commissioned Officer's course on Friday, along with over ninety of other Sergeants First Class. I honestly wish some of your contemporaries could be at that graduation and meet some of these Soldiers. They are intelligent, committed, patriotic Combat Arms Non Commissioned Officers whose knowledge, insight, and understanding of the War on Terror would be quite contrary to some views of the type of American who enlists in the United States Army. They are some of the best Soldiers I have ever had the opportunity to know. 5. In my fourteen-year career, I have deployed to Kuwait for a show-of-force exercise ('93), the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia for UN Border patrols along the Serbian Border ('97), and most recently, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 ('04). My Brother has served alongside me during the same OIF Rotation.We are within 30 days of deploying for our second OIF rotation. And to be honest, I don't regret a single day of it.The Media can write about the History. The American Public can read about it. I, Sir, am making history. I was in Iraq during the first Iraqi Elections in over three decades. I was there for the birth of a new nation. And I helped to make it happen. No one can ever take that away from me, and it will be a memory that I will treasure until the day I die. 6. Personal Information: I would rather not publish my name (for OPSEC reasons, as well as the fact that the position I serve in is very unique, and very high-profile in the Combat Arms community). I don't see a problem with the other information, however. I am a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army. I am from the South Texas Region (the Rio Grande Valley). I am married, and have a Son (he's a Toddler). Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions. V/R -MG P.S.: Sorry for the rambling. I really feel strongly about some of the things we discussed. As I said before, none of the comments about the media were directed specifically at you. I am not familiar with your writing or your work. My observations are on the Media in General.

Okay... You got the OPSEC part. You got the AP part. Now the CYA part: some MilBloggers have been misquoted by the press before. I'm not going to be one of them.

You are reading exactly what I got, and what I sent back.

And we have a handy, dandy record of it... RIGHT HERE!

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 19 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, our participant is Leta!


Tanker Brothers and Sisters, please take the time to take a look at Leta's Organization, get a look at the great work they are doing in Kosovo, and perhaps see if anyone can offer even a little bit of help. Just like each and every one of us Tanker Brothers and Sisters make the Rolling Victory Fast a success, each and every little bit of help makes the mission in Kosovo successful, as well.

We're all a Team, right?

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 18 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
Pick Up Your RVF Tee Shirts (Limited Edition, Only 50 printed, Only $10 each): HERE (All proceeds go to help support Soldiers Angels)

Today, Tracy is representing us in the Rolling Victory Fast! She's an RVF veteran, though, so I know she'll make us proud!

I'm dedicating my fast to the soldiers I have adopted right now. I have 4 soldiers I currently send things to. Getting these guys to actually admit what they NEED let alone WANT is like pulling teeth! LOL Also, My dad instilled a great sense of patriotism in my sister and I. As someone who almost went to Vietnam (Army National Guard) my dad was greatly disturbed by the way vets were treated when they returned. When the first Gulf War started in '91, my dad slapped "Support the Troops" stickers on our cars as soon as they were available to buy!! When this war started I knew I had to show my support in any way I could. I do that by adopting and sending things to soldiers and now I'm going to try my hand at this fast!

Y'know, Tracy, my Dad went through kind of the same thing as yours did. When he came back from his second tour (of which he volunteered for - I guess it runs in the bloodline), he was horrified by the Anti-War movement in the US at the time.

This Blog, in a way, is not only a tribute to the Warriors we're fighting alongside in the Global War on Terror, but it's also pays homage to the generations of Warriors that came before us.

Good luck on your fast day, and remember to keep us posted!

The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me!

Three years!

I wouldn't be the man I am today without the support I get from "Household Six"!

Thanks for holding down the fort while I go fight the Bad Guys, Honey! I couldn't do any of it without you!

Call Me Stupid, But..

I was thinking of the 2008 Presidential Election recently, y'know, kind of "wargaming" the possibilities.

Now, I'm obviously a Republican. Keeping this in mind, consider that I don't really see a great candidate on the horizon: one that can lead us to Victory in the Long War/ Global War on Terror.

I know that sounds harsh, but too many things about Politics these days seem to hinge on polls. And the people TAKING the polls are decidedly Left. So the results from those polls are overwhelmingly Anti-War, even though I am positive that the majority of Americans have our backs when it comes to the GWOT. That doesn't stop politicians from playing to the pollsters, as opposed to representing the people.

Does that make sense?

Anyway, in my honest opinion (which is in no way, shape, or form the opinion of the US Army, the DOD, or any agency affiliated with the US Government - see the disclaimer HERE): we need to elect a Republican.

Consider, if you will:

Administration	Party	Economic/GWOT Legacy
Carter	Democrat	1. Massive Inflation; 2. Energy Crisis; 3. Rise of Radical Islam (1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, Abandoned Shah of Iran)
Reagan	Republican	1. Defeated the Soviet Union without firing a shot; 2. unparalleled Economic prosperity due to heavy investment and aggressive Tax Cuts; 3.  accepted as the most consequential President of the 20th Century
G.H.W. Bush	Republican	1. Overthrow of Panamanian Drug Lord/Dictator; 2. Defeat of Saddam Hussein's Iraq Army in less than 100 hours of Ground Combat; 3. was forced to compromise and violate a campaign promise to not raise taxes
Clinton	Democrat	1. Downsizing of the US Military and gutting of Military budget to finance Social Programs; 2.  Horrendous Balkans policy led to ongoing twelve year presence in the Former Yugoslavia; 3. Blackhawk Down - Somalia pullout after US Army Rangers dragged through the streets of Mogadishu; 4. left Terrorist attacks against the United States unanswered; 5. allowed North Korea to violate agreements and pursue a Nuclear Program
G.W. Bush	Republican	1. Deep Tax Cuts bring US into rapid recovery after 2000 Clinton-era Recession; 2.  WTC Attack response leads to rapid overthrow of Afghani Taliban Regime; 3. Aggressive Anti-Terror programs lead to the captures or deaths of hundreds (or thousands) of Radical Islamic Terrorists; 4. Overthrow and eventual capture of Sadaam Hussein; 5. First Free Iraqi elections in over three decades; 6. Strong Economy - home ownership skyrockets, unemployment falls below 4.5%

And those are just the Adminstrations in my lifetime!

The bottom line is this: Americans vote in elections based on the issues that directly affect them the most. A candidate's stance on Abortion or Gay Marriage (I am staunchly against both) will never win a candidate an election. There are too many people who these issues don't affect.

National Security and the economy, however, affect each and every American citizen. When you think about it, you want your family to be safe, and you want them to be financially secure.

Based on those two issues alone, the Republicans have the edge.

Now, I know some dingbat (Jane Stillwater, I know you still read the Blog) out there will try to point out that the Economy was strong during the Clinton years.

Maybe... but that's subjective.

Consider, if you will: a significant portion of the 1990's prosperity was based on "ones and zeroes". The Internet was in its infancy, and everyone wanted to dump money into companies like AOL, Yahoo, and any other little Internet startup that promised to make it big. What your shares of stock bought was literally "ones and zeroes": computer data. When the Internet bubble finally burst, so did the investments of millions of people, driving the economy down in the 4th Quarter of 2000. In the end, what could those companies (Internet startups) liquidate?

Nothing.

This is in sharp contrast to the Economy of the Bush era: the strength of our economy is now diversified, with the emphasis on ownership. More people own homes now than ever before because of the drop in interest rates designed to stimulate the economy. The Bush Tax Cuts served to put more money into the pockets of average Americans, which they in turn spent or invested, putting that wealth BACK into the Economy. A little secret that Democrats don't tell you: the Federal Government collected more Tax Revenue during the Bush Administration than at any other point in American History. This is despite the Tax Cuts.

The biggest beneficiaries of the Tax Cuts?

The Poor and Middle Class.

If you don't believe me, consider this: if a corporation like Wal-Mart or a Small Business Owner has to pay less in Taxes, where does that money saved go? Back onto the business. They can afford to hire more people or offer better benefits to their employees. That's why there are more companies that offer 401(K) plans with matching funds than ever before. A greater percentage of average (Middle Class) Americans own stock than at any other point in our nation's history. Our unemployment currently hovers at below 4.7%, usually below 4.5%.

And who are those employees that benefit from increased hiring and better benefits?

The Lower and Middle classes.

Next time a Lefty cries about the pain inflicted on the Middle and Lower Classes by the Bush Tax Cuts, ask him to introduce you to someone he personally knows that (1) is jobless due to no fault of his own, or (2) has suffered a reduction in income due to those Tax Cuts. No one has been able to show me one yet.

What do y'all think?

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 17 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Hooah!

I just got back from breakfast, my first meal in over 55 hours!

Cav Tanker... I went the "Extra Mile" for you, Bro.

Tanker Brothers and Sisters: today's Rolling Victory Fast participant is the legendary HTSIC (Head Tanker Sister In Charge), Mary*Ann!

Mary*Ann is dedicating today to a surprising group of people: MilBloggers!

MG I like it when someone dedicates their fast day to some specific person or group. Gives me a little something more to think about and especially on my fast day while I'm not thinking about eating :-) . So, my fast tomorrow will be dedicated to all the Milbloggers. Without all of you, we civilians would be stuck with only the MSM for information and "opinion". And how sad would that be.

Thanks, Mary*Ann! I'll speak for all of us when I say:

"We appreciate it!"

Iraq's Future!

An Iraqi army soldier from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division holds a small girl during a visit to a village outside Mujahida. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jackey Bratt.

You want to abandon them to Isamo-Fascism?

I don't.

Yikes.

“You can’t handle the truth! Son, we live in a world that has walls…and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Who’s gonna do it? You? You, Lieutenant Weinberg? I have a greater responsibility than you can possibly fathom. You weep for Santiago, and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know - that Santigo’s death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives! You don’t want the truth because deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties…you want me on that wall. You need me on that wall! We use words like “honor”, “code”, “loyalty”. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide…and then questions the manner in which I provide it. I would rather you just said “thank you” and went on your way. Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon and stand a post. Either way, I don’t give a damn…what you think you are entitled to!”

Y'know, "A Few Good Men" is probably one of my favorite movies. Not because of whiny Tom Cruise or Demi Moore trying to prosecute a Marine Colonel (Jack Nicholson). But because Nicholson gives probably one of the best speeches I have ever heard from Hollywood in terms of the hard decisions that Soldiers and Marines have to make.

Save The Soldiers has an excellent post up about the power of that speech, and taken by itself, how it applies to what we're trying to do:

Now, seeing the despicable way our Marines who have been accused of war crimes are faring in the media and from some members of our elected, sadly, this speech is still relevent today. Just google Hamdania and Haditha. There are a lot of “armchair generals” out there, spouting opinions and judgements from the safety of their comfy homes and offices. They don’t seem to know what it took for them to have that precious luxury. Do they even care? Yankeemom

Of course Yankee Mom would be the one to post this! Hoo-Frickin'-Ahhh!

Rolling Victory Fast: Days Still Open!

We still have days open:

19-22 October
24-26 October
1-3 November

Sign up for a SPECIFIC DAY by sending an email to TankerBrothersRecon AT gmail DOT com!

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 16 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Okey-Dokie! I'm done with my 24 hours+ of this leg of the Rolling Victory Fast: next up is Desert Rat!

Please keep us updaed in the Comments section, Rat!

I haven't heard from you, so I'm assuming you're still on deck with us. I won't eat until I read a comment from you in the post, ok?

On Personal Courage And Selfless Sacrifice

The US Army's Values are:

• L: Loyalty
• D: Duty
• R: Respect
• S: Selfless Service
• H: Honor
• I: Integrity
• P: Personal Courage

I want you to keep those in mind when you read this:

CORONADO — A Navy SEAL sacrificed his life to save his comrades by throwing himself on top of a grenade Iraqi insurgents tossed into their sniper hideout, fellow members of the elite force said. Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor had been near the only door to the rooftop structure Sept. 29 when the grenade hit him in the chest and bounced to the floor, said four SEALs who spoke to The Associated Press this week on condition of anonymity because their work requires their identities to remain secret. "He never took his eye off the grenade, his only movement was down toward it," said a 28-year-old lieutenant who sustained shrapnel wounds to both legs that day. "He undoubtedly saved mine and the other SEALs' lives, and we owe him." Monsoor, a 25-year-old gunner, was killed in the explosion in Ramadi, west of Baghdad. He was only the second SEAL to die in Iraq since the war began. Two SEALs next to Monsoor were injured; another who was 10 to 15 feet from the blast was unhurt. The four had been working with Iraqi soldiers providing sniper security while U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted missions in the area. In an interview at the SEALs' West Coast headquarters in Coronado, four members of the special force remembered "Mikey" as a loyal friend and a quiet, dedicated professional. (Read More)

While Petty Officer 2nd Class Monsoor was a Navy man (as opposed to Army), we need to remember that this is a Joint Fight, and the Army Values are part of a much bigger picture: the US Military.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Monsoor was a hero in the truest sense of the word: he selflessly gave his life to protect the life of his comrades-in-arms. He made the Ultimate Sacrifice for his buddies.

Every single day, US Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines are putting their lives on the line in order to win this War. Each and every single one of them volunteered, knowing that he could someday go to war and have to make the fateful decision that Petty Officer 2nd Class Monsoor was faced with.

And you have to take it one step further: what would you do?

Would you put your own life on the line, to secure the safety of those around you? Or would you seek personal safety, at the expense of the lives of those you are charged to protect and support?

I've thought long and hard about what must have gone through Petty Officer 2nd Class Monsoor's mind in the seconds prior to his sacrifice, as he was first struck in the chest by that grenade. I wonder what he was thinking about, as he saw it roll towards his comrades. I wonder...

Personal Courage. Selfless Sacrifice.

And then he jumped...

Petty Officer 2nd Class Monsoor embodied the very core values of the United States Military with his actions.

God Bless him.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 15 October 2006!

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Sorry I'm posting this so late in the morning.... but today is MY day to fast in support of victory.

I'm dedicating today to my little brother (Cav Tanker) since he's leaving in a few short days back to Iraq.

(Keep it warm for me, Bro! I'll be there in a few weeks!)

School is almost over here at Fort Knox. I should graduate on Friday. I have a 99.3% GPA, so I think I'm locked in as the Distinguished Honor Graduate (I hope!). I'll let you know on Friday (Even though I already know...*wink*wink*)

Anyway: here's to Cav Tanker - keep your head down, and like I said... I'll see you on the high ground!

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 14 October 2006!

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Today's Rolling Victory Fast Participant is Andrea Seal!

I wish I had something profound to share, but really I wanted to support all of you and let you know that while I'm not always joining, I am always rooting you all on and praying for you all!!

You don't need anything profound, Andrea. Your support and prayers is all we ask for.

Make sure to leave us updates throughout the day by clicking on "comments" at the bottom of this post...

Hooah!

Attention! Attention! Attention!

GUESS WHAT!?

-

"NEW YORK — Air America Radio, a liberal talk and news radio network that features the comedian Al Franken, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, a network official told The AP.

The network had denied rumors just a month ago that it would file for bankruptcy protection. On Friday, Air America spokeswoman Jaime Horn told The Associated Press that the filing became necessary only recently after negotiations with a creditor from the privately held company's early days broke down.

The network will stay on the air while it resolves issues with its creditors, Horn said. In addition to Franken, the network also features shows from liberal talk show host Randi Rhodes and syndicates shows from Jerry Springer and Portland, Ore.-based talk show host Thom Hartmann.

Horn declined to name the creditor with which talks had reached a logjam. The company will operate in the interim with funding from its current investor group.

Air America also said Friday it had named Scott Elberg as its new CEO. Elberg, a former general manager of the radio station WLIB in New York, has been with the network since May of last year."

-

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA .......

Punks!

c/o FoxNews!

That's Gotta Suck: Cindy Sheehan DOESN'T Get Nobel Peace Nod!

My heart is bleeding for Cindy Sheehan.

Looks like she was full of crap... but we won't know for sure for another 50 years.

To be honest, no one will really care 50 seconds from now!

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2006, divided into two equal parts, to Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Lasting peace can not be achieved unless large population groups find ways in which to break out of poverty. Micro-credit is one such means. Development from below also serves to advance democracy and human rights. Muhammad Yunus has shown himself to be a leader who has managed to translate visions into practical action for the benefit of millions of people, not only in Bangladesh, but also in many other countries. Loans to poor people without any financial security had appeared to be an impossible idea. From modest beginnings three decades ago, Yunus has, first and foremost through Grameen Bank, developed micro-credit into an ever more important instrument in the struggle against poverty. Grameen Bank has been a source of ideas and models for the many institutions in the field of micro-credit that have sprung up around the world. Every single individual on earth has both the potential and the right to live a decent life. Across cultures and civilizations, Yunus and Grameen Bank have shown that even the poorest of the poor can work to bring about their own development. (Read More)

Wow. Imagine THAT: someone is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for something, you know, that actually helps people, as opposed to someone who causes divisions!

Cindy... if it's any consolation, you shouldn't have even been nominated (which I doubt you were)...

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 13 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Today, we have a newcomer, and a veteran RVF participant representing us in the Rolling Victory Fast!

First, our Veteran: Rae! She's feeling a little under the wether with Bronchitis, but she's hanging in there like a real trooper... get well soon, Rae! And get plenty of liquids!

As for our newcomer: Julia!

"My husband was a Marine and I would like to show my support for everyone over there by fasting each month until everyone comes home.Semper FI "

Make sure to check out Julia's MySpace page HERE and her Blog HERE!

Keep us informed with updates in the comments section of this post, Julia!

Reminder!

Ahem...

I don't wanna toot my own horn, but, if you want:

• Add Master Gunner to your MySpace Friends!
• Add Cav Tanker to your MySpace Friends!
• Vote For TankerBrothers on Milblogging.com by adding us to your favorites!
• Sign our Battle Roster!

Cindy Sheehan: Nobel Peace Prize?

Excuse me while I puke...

Okay, I'm back.

If this is true (and I highly doubt that it is), then I have lost all faith in my fellow "citizens of the world", and the Nobel Foundation.

Don't know what I'm talking about?

The president's most vocal critic against the war in Iraq was in the Capitol City Wednesday night. Cindy Sheehan was at BookPeople on Lamar & 6th Street signing autographs for her new book entitled "Peace Mom". Sheehan's son, Casey Sheehan, died while on patrol in Iraq on April 4th, 2005. “Whether you agree with it or not, I think we should all be reading books by the families of people who've loss their sons and daughters in this war,” said Turk Pipkin, who was buying one of Sheehan’s books. Sheehan bought a house in Crawford where she and her supporters often protest near President George Bush's ranch. "What I really hope to do with it is to inspire people to do what they can to make the world a better place and to let them know that one person really can make a difference," Cindy Sheehan. Sheehan also announced at the signing that she's a finalist for a Nobel Peace Prize.

Now... this may or may not be true (we'll find out tonight sometime, when the Nobel Peace Prize winner is announced in Oslo, Norway).

Now... I'm going to have to call "BULL5HIT" on this one, but if she WAS noninated, I really wouldn't be too surprised.

Sad and dismayed...but not surprised.

Why am I calling "BULL5HIT"? According to the Foundation:

Are the nominations made public? The statutes of the Nobel Foundation restricts disclosure of information about the nominations, whether publicly or privately, until fifty years have elapsed. The restriction concerns the nominees and nominators as well as investigations and opinions in the awarding of a prize.

Soooooo.... We'll see, I guess.

But I think it would be hilarious if she DID win it and was promptly disqualified before award of the prize because her stupid a55 couldn't keep her mouth shut...LOL!

(Even though it would be totally in character with her "me, me, ME!" personality.)

Think about it, Tanker Brothers and Sisters: If Yasser Arafat can win that thing, why not Cindy Sheehan? They've both done pretty much the same in terms of peace: NOTHING.

Which is pretty much what the damn thing means now, anyway.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 12 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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The Brat is taking over from Aussie Chic for today's leg of the Rolling Victory Fast!

Brat, make sure to leave us some updates!

Aussie Chic, have a great vacation!

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 11 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Aussie Chic is carrying the torch for us during today and tomorrow's leg of the RVF from way over in Australia! Aussie Chic is fasting in rememberance of the Bali Terrorist bombings, a stark reminder that this is a GLOBAL War on Terror, not confined just to the Middle East. And it also serves to remind us that anyone, anywhere can be a victim... even more of a reason for us to commit 100% to this fight.

Keep us posted!

ARMY STRONG: Are You Strong Enough?

Well, we finally got rid of that horrible "Army Of One" stuff.

To be honest, I was never really a huge fan of the whole "Army Of One" concept. While it's important to maintain some individuality, I don't think emphasizing that individuality led to a cohesive Soldier Team.

Let's face it. I have a 31 GT score. If I missed the meaning, and the "Army Of One" was supposed to be some huge collective "hive-mind", then my bad. I didn't get it. If it was some strange Jungian "Duality" thing, then I guess I missed that, too.

So, without further ado, I present to you... Army Strong.

For 231 years our Army has been the vanguard of freedom around the globe. Our ability to fulfill this vital role for the nation depends on each of you, and on the work you do every day. It also depends on our ability to fill the Army's ranks in the future with committed and capable volunteer Soldiers... Army Strong stands for a big idea. It speaks to the truth about the U.S. Army - that Soldiers develop mental, emotional and physical strength forged through shared values, teamwork, experience and training... that by making the decision to join the Army, an individual is choosing to recognize potential strength within him or herself and develop it further... that an individual Soldier is choosing to take charge of his or her future and career... that Soldiers actively choose to make a difference in their lives, their families, their communities and for their nation. I firmly believe Army Strong is the truth. I speak often with Soldiers as I know you also do. In different words and in different ways, over and over again, I hear the story of strength. You are Army Strong. Francis J. Harvey Secretary of the Army (Original Message Edited for Brevity)

"Army Strong".

I like it.

To me, personally, it speaks of having the physical, mental, and moral thoughness to do something that embodies the values you possess. A Soldier, from the moment he raises his hand and swears to serve, has set himself apart from his peers.

I'm not going to lie to you, being a Soldier is tough. Real tough. But kind of like the Peace Corps was supposed to be... it's the toughest job you'll ever love. I have the privilege of attending school right now at Fort Knox, which also happens to be one of the Basic Training/OSUT (One Stop Unit Training) sites in the Army. While the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers I am attending this course with are some of the finest battle hardened Soldiers I have ever known, it's the Basic Trainees that I see graduate that make me the proudest.

When I am on my free time, I see them out and about, dressed in thier brand-spankin'-new Class A uniforms, with their girlfriends on their arms and parents smiling from ear to ear. I see them with their chests puffed out, proudly showing off their Army Service Ribbon and Bolo (Marksmanship) badges for the whole world to see.

These recruits Soldiers are the Tankers and Scouts that will replace me someday. They are better trained and better equipped than any Soldiers the world has ever known. They are smarter and more well-rounded than I was when I graduated Basic Training so many years ago.

And I would be damn proud to lead them into battle.

Make no mistake: these Soldiers aren't brainwashed. They know full well that they will most definitely go to Iraq. They know full well that they might not make it back alive. But they still join.

Why is that?

Why is it, after all the media coverage of each and every single death in combat, after all the articles they have read and footage they have seen of car bombs and beheadings, why is it that they continue to serve? I'm sure the anti-war carzies are asking "WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE?"

To them, I answer: "It's easy. They're Army Strong. What's your excuse?"

D'ya wanna know a secret?

Come closer... I've gotta whisper it...I don't want them to hear...

Ready?

Because we're Americans. And Americans love to fight.

We love to fight for what we believe in, for the things we hold sacred: Duty, Honor, Country. We fight for our families, we fight for what we believe is our destiny: to bring the freedoms we enjoy to the rest of the world. We fight, so that our Little Brothers don't have to (Right, Tanker Dad?). We fight, so that our sons and daughters can live in a world free of terror, free from tyranny, and a society where good is rewarded and evil is punished.

Y'know, I once had to write a paper on the Warrior Caste in our society, and how some families hand down a tradition of military service from generation to generation, and why. I was pretty damn proud of that paper.

But the truth is: we don't fight because we have to.

We fight because we want to.

'Cause we're Army Strong.

Hoo. Frickin'. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh.....

No Words... I Just Like It...

I Guess Allah's Just Gonna Have To Be Pissed Off...

...because if that's the condition for his happiness, then I don't care if I'm the last able-bodied American left, swingin' his rifle like Davy Crockett at the Alamo!

DUBAI (Reuters) - A man believed to be a top al Qaeda militant who escaped from a U.S. jail near Kabul was shown in a new videotape broadcast on Tuesday exhorting followers in Afghanistan to fight on until they attack the White House. "Allah will not be pleased until we reach the rooftop of the White House," Abu Yahya al-Libi was shown telling fighters in the tape aired by the Dubai-based Al-Arabiya television. (Read More)

It ain't gonna happen, Abu.

It just ain't gonna happen.

My Take On The North Korean Nuke Test

Y'know, if it wasn't enough that we have whacked-out nutjobs running around chopping people's heads off, not we have nutjobs that may or may not have nuclear weapons.

So what's the worlds superpower hyperpower to do?

Consider our options:

1. Try to negotiate with North Korea
2. Try to get the UN to pass sanctions on North Korea
3. Bomb them back into the stone age

My vote is for number 3.

Consider:

1. We've already tried the negotiation route more than once, with many different countries, and *surprise* it doesn't work! We're the only country in the world, it seems, that play's "fair". Everyone else isn't held to the same standard as we are, and as a result, we are literally hamstrung by the rest of the world. Just ask Saddam Hussein, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the late Yasser Arafat, and scores of other despots and criminals all over the world.

IT DOESN'T WORK, PEOPLE.

The only thing that madmen and dictators understand is force.

2. The UN? HA! (See #1)

3. Probably our best option. We don't NEED to go in and stand up a Democracy this time. North Korea (I'm sure) would do that for us. All we need to do is launch a massive air campaign and cripple the North Koreans, so the the South Korean army can go in and take care of business!

Well, the wildcard, obviously, is China. But I think we can give a little economic nudge, if we need to.

What do y'all think?

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 10 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Hey Tanker Brothers and Sisters!

I hope y'all had a good four-day weekend (I did). Today's Rolling Victory Fast participant is our new friend Jack over at Incoherent Ramblings!

I'm an Air National Guardsman. Have been since 1984. I've been in an Air Force uniform off and on since *gasp* 1969. I've spent time all over S.E. Asia, S.W. Asia, Central America and Korea. Someday I'd love to see if Europe actually exists.

Y'know, Jacks' blog is probably some of the most difficult reading I've done in months. To think of the tremendous ordeal he's going through, and to give 24 hours to the RVF is incredible.

Thanks, Buddy. I'll be carrying the torch with you... I'm taking this day alongside you.

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 9 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
Sign Up For A Day: Here or send an email to TankerBrothersReconATgmail.com
Updated Duty Roster: Here
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The Rolling Victory Faster has made it to this Columbus Day!

And we're still trucking (even though Crazy Cindy Seehan has done given up a long time ago)!

Today, We have LaurieJean:

Just got a t-shirt ordered and figured I had to sign up to put meaning behind the material... Fasting on a Monday or Thursday would be easier for me, I think, if that is possible... though we cannot always do things the easy way... I wanted the proper rules of this fast so I don't seemingly fake my way through like Cindi. You blend an avacado and or banana into a drink... it is still like eating a banana, right? LJ -SA "sillyca"

We're also being supported today by Desert Rat

Rolling Victory Fast Update: 8 October 2006!

Link To Original Post: Here
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Updated Duty Roster: Here
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Today, Ms. Odetta Deitz is helping out with the Rolling Victory fast, and I'm going to offer support, as well!

Yep, you heard me right... I'm going to take on another day!


Here's why: see that little guy in the photo (taken Friday) with me at the Louisville Zoo? That's who I'm fighting for. I want my son to live in a world where he doesn't have to be scared of the Bad Guys. I want him to grow up in a world without crazies that want to come and do him harm because he's an American.

Someday, I might have to pass this fight off to him, and he might be one of the guys that sees this through to the end. But the bottom line is this: we will win.

We don't have any other choice.