I have recently recieved alot of response from people that have loved ones here and must say that I never imagined that my website would be accessable to so many people. On the one hand it is nice to know that my site has eased the concerns of so many, on the other hand I have been told that people are more worried then before since now they have iformation their loved ones have chosen not to share. It is clear that individuals have decided some information is best not shared and I do not have the right to violate that reasoning, it was never my intention to do so. I started this site so those closest to me would know exactly what we as soldiers go thru and not be subjected to the bias of news agencies and political spin doctors.
I may either end this site or be oredered to stop sending such open messages. I have tried to be vague and want to say that this is a very dangerous place period. But what everyone should know is that the spirit of those here is of great comfort to all in harms way. There is a very particular closeness that exist here at the FOB that can not be found anywhere else. I have the highest level of respect for the average soldier and see what a great job they have done and will continue to do. My concern is for situations like the "Pat Tillman" issue and the politicians that lied about it, people should have access to the truth and the only ones that really know it are the rank and file soldiers not those that contemplate their own futures first.
I love the Army and being in the company of soldiers and will do my personal best to maintain the level of integrity so common here on O'Ryan, and will not let those that would tarnish what these men have done go unmentioned, the politicians in uniform.
So I would like to make the choice on my own whether or not to end this blog and see it as a morale decision. But just about everything that happens here goes along those lines. I know that should I not make it home this site had to have been "the truth".
Does the idea of roasting a 200 pound pig in the company of a dozen Muslims in a Muslim country sound like something wise to do ?
And the fact that these Muslims have stated their distain for such things, will this help with our future in Iraq or posibble put more of us in danger by showing such contempt for those we are here to help?. This definetly wasn't something most of us wanted but came down to politics. One would think with all the fuss over the "Koran" at Guantanamo Bay and the Muslim faith we would have not done so, not the case at all. Just another quick example, sorry.
Elias although I understand your position, I want you to know that I and countless others would be devastated to see you end your website. I look at it everyday. Sometimes I sit and cry to know my "loved one" has to be exposed to such atrocities. Nevertheless your website keeps me going. In addition I have met onine friends through your website and the son of one of my online friends has now made a connection with my "loved one." Your website is not only informative it is bringing people together across the country and as we come together we support each other. We owe you for this.
PLEASE continue your website with your messages. I check your site every day. I think we all need to hear/read the opinions of someone in your position. We need to know what war does to people--the soldiers on each side as well as the innocent by-standers who, of course, are affected.
Thank you for your efforts to let us know your views. They are fascinating.
Peggy
Elias,
I enjoy reading your website, and appreciate your efforts on the front. I think the National Guard and the FOB are both a better place because of your service. I hope that you will be permitted to keep writing, and that you choose to do so.
You seem to represent the citizen soldier, who gives the very best effort, under the worst of conditions.
If we don't hear from you, I will understand.
God speed.
Elias--I echo what the others have commented above. If not for you, we would not have known how life at FOB O'Ryan truly is. Altho it's difficult to read what you post at times....it is vital for some of us at home who want to know what is going on...and that knowledge helps us in supporting our soldier who is there at FOB O'Ryan.
I hope you will be able to continue with your blogs...they surely do make a difference here....
Our prayers are with you and all of our soldiers...
GodSpeed
I can understand people not wanting to know the things that are truly happening with all of our guys, but on the other hand I can also understand how people would want to know every detail. I for one am one who wants to know everything my soldier is facing and going through over there, so it will help me better understand him when he finally comes home. I am very thankful that you take the time to get your information on here, even though yes the truth is sometimes hard to hear, that is the reality. A soldier of all people should be able to express his thoughts. Risking your life to ensure the freedom of others and you not even being able to express the freedoms that we as Americans already have is somewhat confusing.
I would like to thank you for all the time and effort you obviously have put into this blog. It is very much appreciated. My son is stationed at FOB O'Ryan and when we get to communicate we usually do not talk about what is going on there due to the fact I think that he just wants to focus on something else for a few minutes. Anyway I think it is important for us at home to have at least a small understanding of what is going on over there. I also think it is an atrocity that you as a soldier would not be permitted "freedom of speech" when you are risking your life on a daily basis to provide "freedom" to others. That your basic freedoms are taken away is somewhat hypocritical of our leaders. I hope you are permitted and continue with your blog. Godspeed. Our thoughts and prayers are always with you and all the soldiers over there. Be careful and stay safe.