Saturday Updates & Kudos

Good afternoon all!

I got a couple of very short emails from Rory this morning and he is doing okay. Rory said he still didn't know if or when he would get leave. Both Mike and Julie also heard from Dan and Rob.

Mike reports that the phones have been up and down in Ramadi. He says that they still go on patrol but the area they do is much smaller and not as dangerous. He also said they have added more amour to the Humvees and are rethinking how they want to do things to keep everyone safe. So I am glad for that.

A big CONGRATS to Dan Smith, (who is also in Rory's battery, for those of you that missed it) for being named Soldier of the Month! We are proud of you all.

Rory we miss you!

Veteran's Day

This is a day to remember all who have sacrificed for us and all who are currently sacrificing everyday to safeguard our freedoms. We remember. If you have a chance, find a veteran and thank them. And thanks to the family and friends who provide Rory with so much support.

Soldiers in the Sand
Our hearts were very heavy
And tears stung our eyes.
The families were weary
When we said our last goodbyes.

They sailed across the waters
And some went by plane.
Their heads were hung in sorrow
Hoping to come back the same.

We sent you off with heartaches
But hugs and kisses too,
And asked God above
To please watch over you.

We have given sons and daughters
To fight on distant shores,
And none of us will ever be
As we were before.

They will stand for us in battle
To let freedom ring,
But we all know the heartache
That a war can bring.

We ask them to stand for us
So proud and so tall,
But their heartaches will be hidden
Behind a crystal wall.

So when you pass a flagpole
And see Old Glory wave,
Remember someone fought for you
That surely God did save.

And let us count our blessings
For our precious, lovely land
And never forget that one day
There were soldiers in the sand. --By Wanda F.

More Wednesday Updates

There is a new letter from Lt. Col. Fant. dated 11.1.04. Check it out! He talked about the things they have been doing from a morale standpoint and also about upcoming R&R. Rory we can't wait to see you!!!

Smiles

Sarah, thank you for posting your update from Rory! I will take him not on patrol anyday!! (Sorry if you are bored Ror, but I'm happy.)

Today there are a bunch more photos of 2-17 that have been posted. I didn't see Rory in any of them, but it shows what his common area looks like and what the whole battery has access to. I thought the "open mic" night photos they had were pretty funny. Click here to see the photo galleries.

I also really like the album of the letters from the kids. Those were great. It is good to know that even though they are going through tough times, there are spots of happiness. We love you sweetie!

Congratulations!

A big CONGRATS goes out to Robert Brooke, Rory's friend and platoon mate, for his recent promotion. He has been promoted to Private First Class. We are so proud of all of you guys. Lots of hugs and a big Hooah!

Tuesday Update

Update 13:30 CST: Bloomberg News has the following report from a military spokesman:

"U.S. Marine Major Lyle Gilbert called the clash in Ramadi, about 30 miles to the west, a lesser conflict in the larger battle for Fallujah. "There were attacks on units in Ramadi today, and no casualties," Gilbert said by telephone from outside Fallujah.

An earlier report from Agence France-Presse said insurgents had captured the city center of Ramadi. "There is no word of insurgents taking over in Ramadi," Gilbert said. He said the attack on U.S. troops there involved gunfire, homemade bombs and rocket-propelled grenades."

Ramadi News

There are several reports that there is fighting on the streets of Ramadi and that soldiers have retreated to the bases. Al-Jazeera reports that "In Ramadi, five American soldiers were injured when Marines shot at and destroyed two suspected car bombs. Seven Iraqi fighters were killed in this clash."

The military has not confirmed this yet (so it may or may not be true) and we do not know whether they are Marines or from the Army.

Also, regarding the Internet situation in Ramadi right now, I found out the following: "Currently, our HHC internet system is down. We do have other BNs on Ramadi who have internet systems and some offices have internet systems. We are working to get the HHC internet system back on line. As of 3:22 p.m. 9 Nov. a contract technicians is being sent to our location to fix the problem. We are also in the process of trying to purchase more internet systems so soldiers will have access."

So Rory may not be online for a bit. If anyone hears from him, PLEASE post. With things so crazy over there I am in a perpetual state of worry.

Rory we are praying for you and your unit constantly.

2-17 Getty Images

Zowwiee! Is it just me and wishful thinking or does this look like our favorite soldier (on far right)and is that maybe Rob Brooke standing next to him?!



The caption under this photo says the following:
RAMADI, IRAQ: US Army soldiers with the 2-17 Field Artillery Regiment search a Syrian oil tanker at a military checkpoint in Ramadi, west of Baghdad October 25, 2004. At least three people were killed in clashes between rebels and US troops in the restive city of Ramadi, medics said, while the US military said roadside bombs exploded in the path of two convoys. (Photo credit: PATRICK BAZ/AFP/Getty Images)

This image was taken from a collection of 2-17 FA photos that are owned by Getty Images. Check out the rest of the 2-17 FA photos by clicking here.