Weekly Newsletters from SSG Paul Farr in Iraq

2005-11-14T11:59:00.000-08:00

“Homecoming Ceremony,” it will be located at Baylor University’s Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, TX on Saturday,10DEC05 at 2:00 pm

Staff Sgt Farr writes:

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

139,497 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 13NOV05. I write this final newsletter with both a heavy, but proud heart. Heavy at the thought of leaving so many wonderful people behind, not knowing what will happen to them in the coming weeks, months, and years. From our interaction with the children to the receptive adults inviting us into their homes for chi (tea), these are memories I will cherish with a proud heart until my dying day. I have enjoyed my time getting to know the people in this area and Saturday was an emotional day for me, saying “see ya later” (good-bye to me means I will never see you again, something final. I rarely if ever say it because in the military I know I will cross paths with you again…even the Iraqis) to the many friends I have made here. I heard 100 times if I heard one, “Thank you for what you have done for my village, my family, and the people of Iraq.” The team and the team replacing us were treated to one of the finest meals I have ever had. CPT Tatum, the OIC (Officer in Charge) of the new team commented on how impressed he was with the hospitality and how he looks forward to continuing the good relationship the Iraqis of this area have with the Americans. I think this day was especially beneficial for the new unit as they were able to see the relationship we have fostered over the several months we have been here. It’s one thing to tell them how much we are liked, but to actually be witness to the gratitude is something hard to deny.

We have done so much in the way of helping the Iraqi people in our AO (area of operation) that was never realized or appreciated by the other soldiers in the Battalion. They just thought we were handing out toys and candy, many still believe that to this day. How ignorant they were at what we were truly doing. I still believe we were the main reason they were able to sleep at night without the sound of constant in-coming or ambushes in our area of operation. Those children walking down the road waving at them wasn’t because the combat patrols were patrolling the area, it was because the Civil Affairs team took time to stop and visit with them, give them school supplies, and treat them like any other kid you see on the street back home, with respect and kindness. We were the ones out interacting with Iraqi people in a positive manner, hiring them to come to work on our base camp, rebuilding schools, erecting power lines, building water sites, and distributing much needed clothing and school supplies.

I watch these so-called military analysts who Monday-morning quarterback the war on FOX News and The Generals who never leave their secure areas in Baghdad voice how this is a complex war. The soldier on the ground fighting the fight can tell you that, first hand. On one hand we are fighting insurgents and the other we are trying to “Win the hearts and minds.” If you are successful in the latter, then you have an area such as the one we live in. One where the local population will see the good we are doing and not allow the insurgents to come in. Very seldom is the work of the Civil Affairs team acknowledged by the media or by our own commanders. Rarely do they receive recognition or accolades. The praises we received Saturday and throughout our deployment by the Iraqi people is recognition enough for me. No amount of medals on my chest will allow me to sleep better at night. But, knowing I came to Iraq and helped the people I once fought against will allow me to sleep a peaceful sleep.

The team has done an outstanding job and I’m proud to have served with them. I know each one is looking forward to a much deserved break and being reunited with family members and friends. But, as we have joked of late, we will miss each other. We know things about each other our own families don’t. We have done things, seen things and experienced things only soldiers will ever understand. No matter how hard you try to duplicate it, no one is ever as close as combat soldiers. Every war veteran can attest to it, just ask them.

I know many of you have wondered out loud if the newsletter will continue. I can tell you the newsletter published by this soldier’s hands and eyes has come to an end. But, rest assured someone from the new unit has stepped up to the plate and has volunteered to continue informing and educating. I have passed along everyone’s e-mail addresses and you should look for the new newsletter in the following week. I know everyone will extend the same courtesy as you have shown me, keep him on his toes with the e-mails.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

Ask yourself this question: “Will this matter a year from now?” –Richard Carlson

Just in case there are some of you out there who have no idea who we are, here is a team photo so you can put a face with names. Standing on the hummers holding the Texas Flag, SPC Khan and SPC Blanchard, standing l/r; SSG Pena, SSG Farr, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SFC Loud, and SPC Moses, kneeling is one of our Iraqi Interpreters

We visited our friends at the “castle” again this week and word quickly spread we were there to hand out bottled water and school supplies. As usual the kids were very excited to see us and appreciative of the “gifts.”

These were just a couple of pictures I had taken in October, but had some how over-looked. When you have as many photos as I do it's hard to pick out which ones to use each week. Like I explained to someone just the other day, it's like trying to choose one of your children as a favorite, you just can’t do it. So I go with the ones that stick out and that I think you guys will enjoy. Mostly, I try to choose the ones that don’t require a lot of explanation.

As I have mentioned several times in the past, just our mere presence in the village causes the "Piped Piper" effect. We were in the village less than five minutes before word got out we were there, within that short time there was over 100 children that came out to visit with us.

This is one of those moments I mentioned earlier about cherishing. When the children learned this was our last visit, they came out to wave to us as we were leaving.

On my right is one of my good friends and his son. The elder gentleman is the Sheik of this particular village. He would always comment on how well I picked up the Arabic language. It pays to learn some key phrases in any language because it shows you care about the people you are working with. Plus, it’s a sign of respect especially when dealing with the elders of a village.

CPT Tatum with the new Civil Affairs team and SSG Pena also shown with the Sheik.

The nervous smile on my face is in response to being named "head guest" at this little get together. I was informed since I was the “head guest” it was Iraqi custom to be presented the head of the lamb. I kindly reminded them that I was not Iraqi, so their custom did not apply to me. Thankfully, they have a sense of humor like mine so they just laughed and placed the head in front of me anyway.

With a little imagination, I'm sure you can pick the head out of the pile of meat on the bed of rice.

Menu items included; lamb, rice, fish, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, Iraqi cola, and fresh fruit. As custom in Iraq, the Sheik did not join us. But what he did do was come around and continuously add meat to my plate. He said one Iraqi man could eat a lamb by himself, I jokingly told him I believed him; it looked like he had eaten a small flock. He got a good laugh and added more meat to my plate.

Some of the new team members enjoying some Iraqi hospitality. SSG Shaw is seen drinking an Iraqi cola and SPC Cole is to his right. Of course you recognize my two interpreters. I think it’s important to show the adults too welcome our presence here and show their appreciation by either putting on a large feast, or offering chi (tea).

As this newsletter draws to an end, I cannot express enough the deep gratitude the team has for each and every one of you who have received this newsletter, passed it on to others and then either mailed boxes of donated items or sent the team care packages. We have forged some new friendships and I will try my best to stay in contact with y’all. I promise to send out one more newsletter once we arrive in the states and at the conclusion of our “Homecoming Ceremony.” That will be my way of letting everyone know the team has made it home.

As a final note to everyone, if you would like to attend our “Homecoming Ceremony,” it will be located at Baylor University’s Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, TX on Saturday,10DEC05 at 2:00 pm. I was supposed to provide a number of attendees on my behalf, but I didn’t think they would find 139,497 an amusing number. If you would like to attend and meet the team, we sure would like to meet you as well and thank you in person for your generous donations and continued support…it would be our honor.

Proud Thanks

Across the world, in far off lands,

On heaving seas, on desert sands,
You serve our flag, you guard, you fight,
Make despots quake and fear our might.
You show the world a fearsome face,
But do it with a noble grace.
The same steel fists that man the guns,
Unfold in kindness to little ones.

How can you warriors fight through the night,
Then hand out food when comes the light?
Unlike other armies, you American G.I.’s
Are not viewed with fear by civilian eyes.
Other nations see this and are amazed
Not us, we know it’s how you’re raised.
Wherever you serve, the world can see,
You’re the fine result of our democracy.

On this day of grace we send our prayer,
And give proud thanks to you everywhere.

Russ Vaughn
2d Bn, 327th Parachute Infantry Regiment
101st Airborne Division
Vietnam 65-66

There should be no doubt in anyone's mind who the real #1 is. A&M I truly feel sorry for you...actually, no I don't. The majority of this Brigade's chain of command is A&M Alumni, which accounts for a lot of things here, so I'm going to take a personal interest in seeing them suffer. You better get your 12^th Man suited up because you’re definitely going to need her.

Hook’em Horns

2005-11-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

135,603 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 06NOV05. I know many are asking, “Is this the last newsletter?” I can’t be 100% certain if this will be the last one or not. Soon we will be down to one computer for the entire team. But, I will make it my mission to at least publish one more. With our current situation of trying to pack and transition the new unit into the goings-on here, we were only able to get out three times this week. We had good visits and we found an area that has been grossly neglected, especially by its neighbor who happens to be the most important and influential Sheik in this area. These people live in deplorable conditions and it angered me to see it. These people work for the Sheik and you would think he would try and take care of them better. Another thing that really got my blood pressure going was our commander worked out some back alley drug deal to get electricity run to the Sheik’s “Castle.” Yes, I said CASTLE. That’s money we could have used for a larger project that would have benefited many people, not some wealthy Sheik. Did I mention the Sheik’s son is on the Iraqi National Assembly and a vocal supporter of Muqtada Al Sadr? Yes, the same Muqtada Al Sadr who sent thousands of his devout followers into Najaf to kill American soldiers and Marines in April ‘04. For some reason this Iraqi government official has some “juice” with our commander. Now answer me this, why if you are on the National Assembly and your father is a big Sheik would you need the Americans to fund an electrical project that would only benefit your family? Growing up in Texas I learned, if it smells like BS, it is. Ok, we didn’t fund the entire project, they paid an undisclosed amount and we paid $12,000. Of course Delshad and Ala’a were extremely angered when they learned of this “project.” Ala’a told me, “This is exactly how the Ba’ath Party worked when Saddam was in power. They only looked out for each other and never took care of the poor people.”

As I write this newsletter, I find myself at a loss for words. I know many of you who know me are probably saying, “No way, he always has an opinion about something.” I can never express the utmost gratitude I feel for all of you who have been with us pretty much from the beginning and those who recently climbed aboard. For me it has been a fun ride. Sometimes bumpy, sometimes hairy, but nonetheless fun. I would like to think we have influenced not only this generation of Iraqis, but many to come. One of the headmasters of a new school we had built in the south told me, “I will tell everyone for generations that the Americans came here and freed us from a tyrant, and then built this beautiful school.” Many people will go through life not knowing how it feels to help a total stranger. I have a team full of guys who can go home and feel good about themselves, knowing they helped thousands of people. I have developed a better appreciation for what I have. This is not my first trip to a war-torn area, but it is my first to see how severe the poverty situation is here. It’s hard to believe we live in the 21^st Century and people still live this way. We take so much for granted in the states; running potable water, electricity, food, warm clothing, etc. The rural Iraqis make due with what they have and rarely complain, mostly out of fear ingrained after three decades of terror and control. Fear that someone will come in the night and take them away, never to be heard from again.

I ask everyone who can, before the holidays, go through your closets and toy boxes. Clear out those clothes you rarely or never wear. Clean those old shoes and part with some of the toys you never play with. Donate them either to the Red Cross or a local Church group. Not only are there people in need of those items here in Iraq but also in America. If you choose to send them here, I would recommend finding an organization with the ability and contacts to send them to a unit here. The Holiday Season is rapidly approaching; show what the true meaning of the season is all about, sharing with others less fortunate.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

“The United States fully accepts the profound truth that our own progress, prosperity, and peace are interlocked with the progress, prosperity, and peace of all humanity.”

– Herbert Hoover

The little guy in the middle is Mustafa and he sort of latched on to me when we visited the "Castle." I tried to get him to come to me but he wouldn’t. He speaks English very well for a 7 year old but he couldn’t tell me in English that he wasn’t really allowed inside the walls of the “Castle.” I learned from him that the kids that live outside the wall as well as the workers of the land aren’t allowed inside the walls, the Sheik doesn’t allow it. Well that ticked me off and so for the next 30 minutes after that SFC Loud and I “smuggled” bottles of water and a case of MREs to him. It was funny to watch these three carry water to their house and then run back for more. The little one to the right of Mustafa is Ahmed and to his left is Amir…31OCT05

CPT Upperman asked us to take him out one last time so he could distribute some crayons and small toys that were donated to him. Since he is one of the only other LONGHORN fans with me here and a UT Alumni, we obliged his request…03NOV05

The kids have learned the game pretty well, if you see a GI walking towards the rear of a humvee, it’s 9times out of 10 that he has something in the back that is about to be handed out. Then it's survival of the fittest to see who can be the first in line. You could be handing out bags of air and they wouldn’t care. Just the site of us walking to the back is of a humvee is cause enough to incite a riot.

While everyone else was enjoying themselves handing out stuff, SFC Loud and I were stringing up concertina wire at the request of the headmaster. The perimeter wall had fallen down after years of neglect and the majority of the bricks had been carted away for other uses. With not much of a wall left, farm animals and dogs were able to just walk into the school yard and sometimes into the classes, thus disrupting class. The headmaster asked for help some time back and I was finally able to lay my hands on some wire. It’s a quick fix until the villagers can get this school on the priority list to get refurbished. This group of kids was a little upset, “How can we play football (soccer) now?” For those of you who have had the misfortune of dealing with concertina wire, I shredded a pair of gloves on this trip.

While CPT Upperman was busy with his project and SFC Loud and I were busy with ours, SPC Blanchard was busy seeing to the health needs of the village. On this day he treated 40 civilians with various minor ailments. It was the first time he treated people alone, but he performed in the same professional military manner as he usually does.

………….and of course, there are the nosy neighbors who just have to see what's going on.

Not the best picture, but you get the idea of what the "Castle" looks like…03NOV05

...and this is where Mustafa, Ahmed, Amir, and several other kids and their families live. Sure they have a roof over their head, but that's it. They have no running water, no electricity, and no heat in the winter time. The building you see on the right is where they cook their food and store fuel for the fires. This is the only picture of their houses I took, I didn’t want to be disrespectful and make it look like I was looking down on them. The may not have much, but they are proud of what they do have.

Of course my buddy Mustafa was the first in line to get his toy. The Apache Corporation from Houston donated two boxes of toys and school supplies. We successfully handed out one box on this visit and will distribute the other in an up-coming mission.

There were right at 20 children in this village, just enough for each child to get two toys.

Even the women of the village came over to get toys for the babies. This was one of those rare occasions where the women came right up to us without covering their faces. It was a welcome surprise after looking at these knuckleheads day after day. It was nice to see a pretty face.

SSG Farr handing out some of the toys donated by the Apache Corporation. I wish to thank Tyra Randall with the Apache Corporation and her hard work putting together a toy/school supply drive. Those donated items are shown in these past few photos. I would also like to thank the many people who donated or helped Tyra in any way. Your generous contributions helped bring a smile to several Iraqi children’s faces on this day…03NOV05

Congratulations Longhorns on another impressive game. I think you held back though. Kansas, just forfeit now and save yourself the same fate as Baylor. If not, I guess the boys will just paddle your backsides too.

I wanted to thank Mike Lubke on the good job he is doing with the site. I would also like everyone to get a different perspective of what is going on here, told by two Iraqis living in Baghdad. I think you’ll find this site informative and will open your eyes a little more than what I have been able to do. It is listed below with the other sites. They put a plug for Mike’s site on their site, so I told them I would return the favor.

operationiraqichildren.org

anysoldier.com

mlub.blogspot.com

www.cornbreadshow.com

iraqitruthproject.com (newly added)

Iraqi site(s):

iraqthemodel.blogspot.com (newly added)

2005-11-03T14:21:00.000-08:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

131,429 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 30OCT05. I wanted to start off this week’s newsletter by thanking everyone again for your Patriotism, continued support of the troops, and for your help in getting our word out. You all have truly made this deployment more enjoyable than you will ever know, at least for me. Since I’m the only knucklehead on the team to volunteer to come to Iraq, I have no reason to complain. When I first learned I was chosen to go to the Civil Affairs course at Ft Bragg in September 2004, I was just a little ticked off. I had volunteered to come over here to lead troops into combat, to find the enemy and kill him, plain and simple. Little did I know how important Civil Affairs is in today’s Global War on Terrorism. The day to day interaction with the Iraqi people changed my perception of them. I owe that mostly to my two interpreters, Ala’a and Delshad. They have opened my eyes to so much about the Iraqi culture that you could never learn in books.

Unless you are “boots on the ground” in Iraq and interacting with the population you just have no idea. The people stuck on the FOB’s (Forward Operating Bases) play an important role here. Unfortunately, for them they spend their entire time on the base camp and their only perception of Iraq is that it really sucks, especially when you receive in-coming fire from an unseen enemy. I like to think the team is mostly responsible for the over all safe environment we enjoy here in our AOR (Area of Responsibility). We have brought electricity to several thousand people for the first time, in the process of bringing clean water to thousands more people for the first time, and repairing schools that will benefit generations to come. Not to mention, we have employed hundreds of more Iraqis either here on our base camp or at the different project sites. No too shabby for a bunch of guys thrown together in May and told to “go forth and do good things.”

Everyone is already aware the Iraqi Constitution passed with a record turn out. As I stated last week, even if it had not passed it still would have been a victory for the democratic process. The next hurdle for this monumental year will be the election in December of a new, full-term parliament. President Bush summed it up nicely, “The Iraqis are making inspiring progress toward building a democracy. By any standard or precedent of history, Iraq has made incredible political progress, from tyranny to liberation to national elections to the ratification of a constitution in the space of two and a half years.” Could you imagine three major national elections in one year in America? Most people get bent out of shape over one every four years.

“In the name of my peoples, I’d like to thank all…the American people for the sacrifices [for liberty]. The American nation should be deeply proud of its sons and daughters who have worked hard and who have fought hard for the best values of liberation and democracy in Iraq. With such tremendous morale, with such sometimes terrible injuries, they have braved tremendously and they bear their suffering for the sake of humanity, liberation and democracy. I would like to say to these patients and to the American people that these sacrifices have not gone in vain. Indeed we shall have a world that is free from terrorism and where the human right and democracy are respected.” –Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari, after his visit to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

We Americans of today, together with our Allies, are passing through a period of supreme test. It is a test of our courage-of our resolve-of our wisdom-our essential democracy. –Franklin D. Roosevelt

Unfortunately, we were only able to go out once this week. However, we did have a good day and the medics treated 70 civilians with various ailments. Pictured here is SSG Pena checking the blood pressure of an Iraqi man who suffered a stroke earlier in the year.

These two little girls were just sitting quietly watching what we were doing during one of our "road-side medicine" stops. Normally, as you’ll see in following pictures, if we stop for more than a few minutes we are swarmed with children of all ages begging us to either take their pictures or give them pens, pencils, toys, soccer balls, etc. These two were the exception.

SSG Pena with the help of our Iraqi Interpreter explains to an Iraqi civilian how to take medicine for an upset stomach. On this particular stop the chief complaint by the civilians was upset stomach. As I have explained in previous issues, many of the ailments of the Iraqi civilian population, especially in the rural areas, are intestinal problems. Much of this can be prevented with proper personal hygiene practices, but another cause is the non-availability of potable water.

The soldier in the green uniform is SPC Cole. He is a medic with the 1/108th AR, 48^th INF BDE from Georgia. This is the unit replacing us in a few weeks. We decided to take him and several others from his unit out and get them familiar with the area. They were stationed up north and took several casualties, so coming down here is a great relief for them. We have been explaining to them that the work our team has done in this area has helped make the area safe. Villagers are taking responsibility for their security and keeping the insurgents out. That to me is a major victory, when the locals take pride in their country and deny the insurgents safe passage and a safe-haven.

This is a picture taken the middle of July of a little guy's finger that suffered an electrocution burn to his left middle finger. The injury occurred about one month prior to this photo. The parents had taken the boy to a local clinic and the medical attendants told them there was nothing they could do. They said if they were to treat the injury the boy would get diabetes or cancer and die. Fearing those words, the parents opted to take the boy home and let “Allah” (God) do what he would with the boy.

We checked back on him about a month later and the finger looked better. The parents took him to an actual hospital and they were able to treat it. However, the Iraqi doctors placed a metal pin into the finger in an attempt to straighten the bone. This is a photo of SPC Blanchard cleaning and dressing the finger. He took the time to explain to the grandmother the steps necessary to clean it and bandage it.

Unfortunately, their attempt did not help. This picture was taken earlier today (Sunday, 30OCT05).

When he found out we were in the village looking for him, he ran from almost 1 kilometer to see us. Although his finger is deformed, he is just as happy as any other 8 year old.

SSG Pena and one of our Iraqi Interpreters discuss the health of this little guy. According to his father, he was treated for Jaundice when he was younger. The father fearing he was suffering from it again brought him to us shortly after our arrival in the village.

Due to the size of his stomach and other visible symptoms, SSG Pena believes this little guy now suffers from a large tape worm. But without being able to run necessary tests, he is not 100% positive.

Remember what I said earlier about stopping for more than a minute and being swarmed with kids. Here is just one instance we found ourselves in on this mission. As long as the children and adults are content with coming up to us and laughing and smiling and generally being friendly, I’m happy. I mentioned some of the Georgia boys came with us this day. They were extremely surprised how friendly the people are here. Everywhere we drove the school children walking to school stopped and waved. One of the guys mentioned how nobody ever waved at them and the only time they ever raised their arm it was to throw rocks.

SSG Crump with the 1/108th AR, Georgia National Guard is seen taking in the surroundings..."Yep, this is definitely better than where we were," he commented to me.

This little Iraqi boy had the worse case of trench foot any of us had ever seen. It was so bad he had to be carried to the make-shift treatment table. SSG Pena is shown cutting away some of the dead skin.

SSG Pena continues to cut away the dead skin as SPC Cole applies a dressing to the other foot. Many of the Iraqi children choose not to wear shoes unless they are going to school. Because they regard their shoes as something of necessity, they don’t want to ruin them by playing outside in them. They would rather go barefoot than ruin their shoes, causing their parents to have to spend money on something other than food or fuel.

We have received several boxes of donated items from different people this week. I assure you the items will be distributed accordingly within the next couple of weeks. Right now is a period of slow transition for us and we’re not able to go out as often as I would like or anticipated. We are still in the tunnel, but starting to see little slivers of light. Many prior service members and war veterans know the most dangerous time of a deployment is the end, when troops begin to get complacent and think of things other than the mission at hand. I assure you, we continue to serve in the same professional military manner as when we first arrived. The guys are motivated to get home, but more motivated to get there in one piece…but only after our mission is complete and we’re told to get on the plane.

You know it was coming; How about them ‘Horns? All I can say is they are having an awesome year. All you other fans have your teams, but this year is the ‘Horns year. Oklahoma State, nice try, but go back to the drawing board and try again next year.

This picture was sent to me by a proud mom and fellow Longhorn Fan. When she read one of my newsletters and realized how big a fan I am, she sent this and other pictures of her two boys. Shown here are Devin & Kelvin Cooper and the Coach of the Texas Longhorns, Mack Brown. Thanks for the picture and Hook ‘em Horns.

2005-10-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

128,932 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 23OCT05. This has been a very busy week, which is the way we prefer it as it helps the time go by quicker. We visited the two water projects this week and I’m happy to report they are 100% complete as far as we are concerned. Now it’s up to the Mayor to hold up his end of the bargain and get the pipe netting to run to houses, as he promised. The completion of the two water projects marks an end to the bulk of our missions these past two months, overseeing every step of the projects. From the selection of the projects, to the selection of the contractors, to checking on the projects weekly to ensure the terms of the contracts were being met, we are proud of the work done. The team can leave Central Iraq knowing we helped the Iraqi people in this region in ways the other units did not. Although we have been in this area since April, we didn’t receive funding for projects until the middle of August. On September 9^th we started laying two electrical lines, refurbishing three schools, and building two water sanitation/distribution sites with a price tag of just over $366,000 USD. In a little over a month all projects are complete and the people benefiting from them are very pleased. Several thousand people are enjoying electricity, many for the first time in their lives. Children are returning to schools once run down and forgotten by Hussein’s regime. Once the Mayor is able to provide the necessary pipe network, several thousand more will enjoy clean potable water for the first time in their lives. As we continue to explain nearly every time we go out, the Coalition Forces can not reverse 3 decades of damage inflicted by Saddam Hussein and his henchmen in the 2 ½ years we have been here.

Two very important stories came out of Iraq this week and watched by millions around the world. The first was the Yes/No vote for the Iraqi Constitution. Millions of Iraqis cast their votes and to this day it is still unknown what the final outcome is. Whatever the final result, it was a victory for the democratic process. Sunnis participated in greater numbers in this election than in the last one held in January, which they boycotted. The constitution will establish what kinds of laws will govern Iraq and how much a role Islam will play in government’s decision making. If the constitution passes, it will be up to the next National Assembly to decide issues that the constitution does not clearly address. The final story was the beginning of Saddam Hussein’s trial. This will be Iraq’s “trial of the century.” Many Iraqis, including my two interpreters were glued to the television as the trial unfolded before their eyes. They were clearly upset when the judge announced the trial would be postponed until 28 November. My interpreter Ala’a looked at me and said, “Saddam did not postpone killing my relatives, I can not believe this is happening.” All I could say was, “Unfortunately, that’s the price we pay for living in a democratic society, and even the people we know are guilty get a fair trial.”

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

Events have brought our American democracy to new influence and new responsibilities. They will test our courage, our devotion to duty, and our concept of liberty.

– Harry S. Truman

Our first trip of the week took us to one of the completed schools. We delivered several boxes of donated school supplies courtesy of 2LT Colicher’s mom (Alice Colicher), sister (Misty Fountain), and family friends (Mayna & Lacey Benoit). Please direct any hate mail to 2LT Colicher if I failed to remember anyone with his mom’s group. The team appreciates your time and effort in making these children a little happier. You have provided them with the tools necessary to learn and you should be proud of your efforts.

Here is a portion of the donated school supplies. Some of it had already been taken inside the school before I was able to get a good picture of it. The teachers and students were happy at receiving such nice supplies and wished to express their appreciation to those who donated them…17OCT05

SSG Wasson decided to try out his new fishing pole in a local canal. Unfortunately, fishing is a sport of patience and we just didn't have the time. Needless to say he didn’t catch anything, but he did entertain the locals as many had never seen such a contraption.

The same canal SSG Wasson tested his fishing pole in is also the source of water for this water project.

The water system is set-up as a four stage system. Stage one is the drawing of water from the canal through this pipe by two motors.

Water is drawn by these two motors and pumped into the large white tank; capacity of this tank is 7,920 cubic gallons. Second stage occurs inside the large tank. Chlorine is added as the water is drawn from the canal. The water is then distributed through 4 chambers, breaking down any impurities in the water.

Third stage consists of water from the large tank being pumped through the sand filtration system located in the two cylinders. The filtration system is comprised of fine sand at the top, medium size pebbles in the middle, and then larger pebbles at the bottom. Once the water passes through this stage it is 90% potable. Stage four is the adding and mixing of bleach and then testing for potability. This site will be manned 24/7 by one guard and one mechanic. Once the mayor obtains the pipe netting it will be able to clean and pump clean water to several thousand people. Unfortunately, the team will not be here to witness this…21OCT05

The following pictures are the final school project prior to refurbishment.

…………and after

The contractor for this school project performed above and beyond the scope of work he proposed in the contract. He explained he wanted to help his fellow countrymen and felt obligated to do a good job. The headmaster explained how he had requested assistance from the Iraqi government to repair this school, but it fell on deaf ears. He expressed how he never dreamed his school would look like this and thanked us profusely throughout our visit. Before we concluded our visit, the headmaster stated he drafted a letter to the government explaining how it took the Americans less than 6 months to coordinate the refurbishment of his school and how happy he was for our coming to his assistance. It was one of those “thanks, for nothing” letters to the government.

The above photos are of our last trip of the week. The Scipio Superstars 4-H Club from La Porte, Indiana donated several boxes of baggies filled with pens, pencils, toys, etc. which we gladly handed out in different villages. The wooden toys you see in the previous photos were hand made and donated by the Midwest Woodworkers Association of Columbia, MO. The final photo shows SFC Loud teasing the kids with some of the wooden cars. These were a big hit and a much sought after item.

The final group to donate school supplies are my friends and former co-workers with the Excelsior Springs, MO Police Dept. The pens and pencils were greatly appreciated by kids. Thanks guys for the assistance.

SSG Pena is shown checking the blood pressure of an Iraqi civilian.

With the help of one of our interpreters, SSG Pena checks the range of motion of this Iraqi civilian's leg. The gentleman advised he had already been diagnosed with arthritis, but requested to see SSG Pena anyway…22OCT05

As I explained last week, we will no longer request donated items of any sort. Our time here is quickly approaching and there is no guarantee the next unit will be as generous as we have been when it comes to distributing donated goods. I apologize for any misunderstanding last week when I notified everyone of the upcoming “Welcome Home Celebration.” For clarification purposes, the event is scheduled for the “first part”

of December, not the 1^st. Again, once I receive a firm date I will send out a mass e-mail inviting any and all to come. It would be our pleasure to meet the people who have made our mission somewhat enjoyable. If it were not for all of you who have donated items for us to distribute, our time would have gone by much slower than it has. Your charitable contributions have allowed us to get out and interact with the Iraqi people, allowing us to realize they really are no different than you and I.

I want to recognize some organizations who have helped us all come together one way or another. Please check out their websites and express your appreciation for their service and support of our efforts, not only here in Iraq, but in Afghanistan as well. I know there are others out there, but these have affected us personally. Thanks for what you do.

operationiraqichildren.org

anysoldier.com

mlub.blogspot.com

www.cornbreadshow.com

Finally, you know the newsletter wouldn’t be complete with out me rubbing in yet another awesome victory by the Texas Longhorns. In fact I received an e-mail from a friend of mine with the Dallas Police Department and it went something like this, “Howdy P.W.,I hate tell you this but my high octane Texas Tech offense will be running full bore tomorrow, I plan to make it my only official act for the day to watch it!!!” I’ll let that person remain anonymous, but I know some of you recognize his BS…HAHA. For those of you wondering, yes I did watch the game and out of 12 who started out watching it, I was the final one to leave after it was over, at 0200 this morning…I am a true Longhorn Fan, Hook’em Horns.

2005-10-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

124,237 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Saturday, 15OCT05. I have received so many e-mails since the last newsletter (240 in one day) it’s almost overwhelming at times. I never would have thought something could receive so much attention and affect so many lives. Many of you share with me and the team how you start your week off by reading the newsletter, or how some of your water cooler discussions involve what was shown in the newsletter. It’s very humbling to know we have so much influence not only here in Iraq but back in the states as well. When I started this newsletter, I did it with the intent of chronicling our adventure here in Iraq and keeping our families abreast of what we were doing, sort of a calming affect for those we have left behind. The only thing people know about what goes on here is what the media shows. The layperson on the street only believes there is bombings and senseless killings on a wholesale basis. I’m sure in certain areas of Iraq that may be the case. But thankfully, not here.

As I write this, Iraq is making history yet again by voting on its Constitution. The government has established a no-travel advisory throughout the country. The Iraqi Police (IPs) and Iraqi National Guard (ING) have shoot-to-kill orders for any vehicle traveling on the roads without a special placard that can be seen from a distance. Since this order was imposed the numbers of car bombings and IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devises) has almost fallen off the radar. My two interpreters say they agree with the Constitution and the way it reads. A large majority of the country also agrees and this year should prove to be monumental year for the Iraqi government. It should be known one of my interpreters is Sunni and the other Shia’. If they can agree it is good, there should be no problems with the rest of the country, we shall see.

Throughout the week, no matter how bad it has been, I often look back through my several hundred pictures taken throughout the course of the week and find those that make me smile. This week was no different. The highlight of the week was distributing school supplies to one of our recently re-built schools. We again escorted the 975^th MTC (Movement Control Team) from Los Alamitos, California. They handed out school supplies for 268 children. This particular school teaches grades 1^st – 6^th. The looks on the children’s faces was very heart warming. They were so excited to see us you could feel it. Every where I went I heard, “Thank you mister” in broken English. I had people ask me when I was home on R&R, “why are you there helping those people?” I would politely explain to them, it’s for the children, plain and simple. They deserve our help because they are the future of Iraq. Whose to say by our kind gestures; handing out beanie babies, or giving them candy, years from now they will remember what we did for them and choose not to go down the path so many before them have.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

Our values, our principles, and our determination to succeed as a free and democratic people will give a torch to light the way. And we will survive and become stronger-not only because of a patriotism that stands for love of country, but a patriotism that stands for love of people. -Gerald Ford

The new Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs) team photo...holding Texas Flag from l/r; SPC Khan & SPC Blanchard. Standing; SSG Pena, SSG Farr, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SFC Loud, and SPC Moses. Kneeling is our interpreter. The Texas flag was donated by Belinda Frisk, a 6^th generation Texan. SFC Loud was in need of a home, so we took him in. He’s a very professional and knowledgeable NCO not to mention he’s POLICE, so that makes him okay in my book.

This is one of two water sanitation/distribution sites we funded. During this visit it was 90% complete. This particular site is situated along the banks of the Hilla River and will provide potable water to thousands of Iraqis who have never known the meaning of clean water…10OCT05

Some of the Iraqi laborers taking a break during our visit. An important topic was brought up during our visit, how will the villagers get the water once it enters the tank. We explained to them the only reason we agreed to fund this project was the Mayor assured us he could get the pipes necessary to run from the tank to the homes. Now, that seems to be a major problem. Our solution was to install a spicket which the villagers could use to get water. It’s a short term solution until the Mayor comes through on his promise. The villagers stated they didn’t trust the Mayor nor did they believe he would get the pipe network needed to provide water to each household. It was then explained to them they live in a democracy now, use your power and vote him out of office.

I want to give everyone an idea of how important it was to choose this school as one of our refurbishment projects. The following pictures are before work began…08AUG05

………and after.

It was an awesome experience to watch the transformation of this school. The children were so excited about the "new" school the student population exceeded expectations. The headmaster decided to convert his office into another classroom and took a smaller room as his office. This is one of many instances where we helped secure a stable learning environment, not only for this generation of Iraqis, but for many to come. This is why we’re here Mr & Mrs. Liberal, not for the oil…10OCT05

Members of the 975th MCT and Iraqi students prior to handing out donated school supplies. The children chanted, “Thank you America, God bless you America, God bless Iraq”…12OCT05

The first graders were by far the most vocal once they received their school supplies. Yes, they are just as rambunxious as 1^st graders in the states.

This day was by far the best of the week. The smiling faces of the Iraqi children and the constant, "Thank you mister" was worth the trip. Out of all my time here, the children have by far made the separation from family and friends less painful. They are just as innocent as children in the states. They were born into a country that only new hardship and no future. I’m proud to have been apart of history that has given them a chance for a better future. The Coalition Forces have done a commendable job in rebuilding Iraq which continues today. For the people who only seek the “truth” via the media, I ask them to please open your eyes and see this as a good thing.

I know many of you still wish to correspond with us or send us boxes of donated items. Regretfully and thankfully, I must decline any further forms of communication, aside from e-mail. Reason being we are due to be relieved by another unit sometime next month. After that our future is uncertain. We do not know where we will be going after the transfer of authority and I would hate for any donated items intended for our distribution to get lost in the mix.

Rest assured, I will continue to send out the newsletter until it’s time for us to leave. I do want to give everyone able to attend a notice there will be an official Texas Sized Homecoming celebration at Baylor Stadium in Waco. It’s scheduled for the first of December, but subject to change. Once I get a more firm date I will send out a mass e-mail inviting any & everyone wishing to attend.

Congratulations LONGHORNS on another fine game. Next week will be another test against the Texas Tech Red Raiders. I have confidence we’ll pull it off. Hook’em Horns

2005-10-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

SSG Farr writes:
"119,798 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 09OCT05. We had another painfully slow week as we were only able to go out one time this week. A bit of good news is that we are getting our trucks and troops back, so we will get back to doing what we were doing, helping the Iraqi people. This has been a pretty good week in terms of people e-mailing me and asking to be put on the mailing list. To think when I started this little “pet project” back in March I only had 25 readers, and the majority of them were friends and family. Now look what it’s turned into, a global phenomenon…don’t I wish? I have all of you out there to thank for its growing popularity. Your continued support is greatly appreciated and we could not demonstrate to the Iraqi people how much we want to see them succeed as a democratic country if it were not for your generous donations of clothing, medicine, school supplies, toys and in some cases food.

I can’t remember how many times I have been approached on this deployment by every day Iraqis who ask one question, “Why did it take you (America) so long to help us?” The only answer I have for them is we as a country were naïve. We believed the Iraqi people were in support of Saddam Hussein and his policies and he was supported as a leader. I then feel extremely small when they answer me, “Yes, of course we supported him when he gassed 8,000 innocent Kurdish civilians in the 80’s, we supported him when he sent troops into southern Iraq and killed thousands of innocent Shia’ civilians after the failed uprising at the end of the ’91 Gulf War, and yes, we supported him when he drained the marsh lands in the south which starved the Marsh Arabs almost out of existence.” For those of you out there who honestly believe they supported Hussein, I can tell you the Iraqis can be just as cynical as me. For the nay-sayers out there who think we got into this war for the wrong reasons, perhaps we did and I’m not at liberty to question policy, but I do know the majority of the Iraqi people love us and glad we are here, even if it took 12 years to liberate them from a monster. The team’s interpreters have horror stories of family members taken away and executed for no other reason than being Shia’ or Kurdish. Some may question why we are here, but I can say I’m proud to be here helping rebuild a nation. I pose one final question; if we came to Iraq with oil as an ulterior motive, then why are you paying $3.00 a gallon for gas? Think on that one awhile.

The projects are nearly complete with only the two water projects left. The schools look amazing and the work done to them in the amount of time is incredible. Next week I will make sure to go to all the projects and take pictures, that way everyone can see the final product and can be proud of the work being done here, even if no one else wants to report it.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns," Paul.

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, as long as you can.” –John Wesley

I had the pleasure of meeting through the newsletter, Merlin Selman who lived in Iraq with his family 1957-1958. This picture was taken at the Ancient City of Babylon. Notice how it looked during this time period. “My father worked for the American Embassy. We became "Persona Non Grata" and had to leave as did all Americans and British in Oct 1958, because of a Military Coup staged by the Col. Abdul Kareem Kassim. The young boy King Faisil and the Prince Regent his Uncle were killed in a bloody siege of the castle. I can still remember hearing the tanks rolling through Baghdad and automatic fire coming from near the Tigris River.”

“There is also a picture of the "Conquering Lion of Babylon". It was the symbol for the city and Iraq has used it as a symbol in the past. It is standing triumphant over the supine figure of a man representing an enemy. Some think the supine man symbolizes Israel and commemorates the sack of the city of Jerusalem by Babylon. It is called the Babylonian Captivity in the Bible.”

Mr. Selman has a wealth of information about this region and it has been a pleasure e-mailing back and forth and comparing pictures of what Iraq looked like when he was here as a young boy and what it looks like now. His history lessons were not learned in books, but through living it. Thanks for the lessons Mr. Selman, it’s been a pleasure.

This is the original Ishtar Gate on display in Berlin, Germany. The gate was taken by German Archeologist during Hitler’s reign.

This is the new Ishtar Gate built during Saddam Hussein's reign

The one day we were able to go out, SSG Pena was extremely busy. He treated nearly 100 people alone. The most severe ailment was chicken pox. We received word that a chicken pox out-break had occurred in a nearby village. So, we gathered up our things and went to find out. SSG Pena treated so many people he ran out of medication…05OCT05

This little girl and her brother look worse than what they were. SSG Pena said the little girl had no fever and the sores were beginning to dry up. The little guy still had a fever and had a few more days until he would be better. Unfortunately, students who were clearly showing signs of chicken pox continued to come to school, thus infecting everyone else. Unlike the schools stateside, children in Iraq continue to go to school unless they are gravely ill. SSG Pena explained to the Headmaster and teachers the hazards of letting the sick children continue to attend school. The initial mission for the day was to treat the school children, but as word spread we were in the village with a medic, nearly every infected child showed up. It turned out to be a very good day and the villagers were appreciative of our visit…05OCT05

I have mentioned three of our nine projects were water related. This is one of the water sanitation/distribution projects. Water from the Hilla River will be pumped into a filter system shown here as the two cylinders. From the filters the water will then be pumped into the large holding tank you see behind the cylinders. The project should be completed in about 10 days, “Inshallah” (god willing). That is a favorite phrase used by Iraqis when they have no definitive answer. If you ask them, “Will this project be done in 10 days?” Nine out of ten times their answer will be, “Inshallah.” In other words, if god wills it, it will be done in 10 days. But if it rains or the ground opens up and swallows everything, thus causing a delay, it was god’s will.

No way would Iraqi building standards fly in America. They cast this roof with concrete, but then added a layer of dirt, then lay plastic on top of the dirt, then placed mud on top of the plastic. The final step is to place the bricks. I’m not exactly sure how water-proof it will be, but they’ve been constructing buildings in this fashion for a long time.

2LT Colicher is shown cutting a ribbon for one of the school projects completed. The contractor is on his left and made a consorted effort to find us several miles away at another project. Once he talked us into coming to the school, we were surprised to round the corner and see several people waiting…05October05

You may recall the photo of the gentleman laying tile last week, this is his finished product.

Not only did he tile the walkway from the front gate to the school, but from the WC (restroom) as well. Items repaired or replaced on this school was the perimeter wall, roof, all windows and doors, installed ceiling fans in every classroom, tiled the courtyard, walkways and all 6 classrooms, and completely repaired the WC. Price tag: $65,000

On this particular visit, we had no medics with us. This worker at one of the projects suffered a laceration to his ankle and asked for help. SGT Langolis from Co B is a Combat Lifesaver and volunteered to "square" this guy away. For those of you unaware of what a Combat Lifesaver is, he/she is a soldier that receives extensive medical training and can give an IV if needed. That helps the medics immensely if there are several casualties; the Combat Lifesaver is a combat multiplier.

I couldn't pass up this opportunity to be cynical. No, liberals we did not injure this man and then stage helping him. As much as the liberal media and like minded lemmings like to think every good deed done here is staged, I wanted to assure you this was not the case here. There is no reason for us to stage photos, there is enough good things going on in Iraq to show without having to stage anything.

I wanted to add this poem written by the team's "Okie Friend" as she so eloquently calls herself. We truly appreciate your support of the troops and for the poem; it speaks volumes of your character. Thanks Janet.

I wanted to show two of the hundreds of “Kodak Moments” I missed while on this deployment. Yes, it was my choice to come here and help the Iraqi people, but I have still missed out on 18 months worth of “Kodak Moments.”

The beautiful little girl in the middle is my baby girl Kiersten. Albeit, this is one "Kodak Moment" no father wants to acknowledge, that his baby girl is growing up. Good thing being the daughter of a cop tends to keep the mutts away. This picture was taken with her friends before a local pageant.

This is my "horse" Zachary. When I was home on leave last December he was the same height as my stubby butt. I recently read a newspaper clipping that listed him as 5’10, 200 lbs. As long as that isn’t propaganda to psych out the other teams, he is now taller and out weighs me, but I can still take you down boy!

I love & miss you guys and I’m very proud of both of you.

Congratulations Texas Longhorns, that was an outstanding game and I was able to see every play. Colorado Buffs are next in the crosshairs, and I’m confident we’ll work them over too.

Colorado, you’re next!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-10-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

111,207 people around the world. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 02OCT05. I wanted to start off by letting everyone know those family members of the team that were in the path of Hurricane Rita, made it through Rita fine. I believe the only one to sustain any damage to their homes was 2LT Colicher. Nothing too serious and it will give him something to do when he gets home. Plus, it was probably a “honey do” project he had been putting off for some time.

The projects are going along very well and we were only able to check on them once this week, all in one day. The two electrical projects are complete and have brought electricity to over 1,200 families. The all-female school is also complete and the students are thrilled to be going again. The other two school projects will be complete in about 10-15 days. The one water gate project is at about 95% completion. The two water sanitation/distribution projects still need work and should be done in about 30 days.

It’s funny to walk through camp or in the chow hall and be approached by some of the people I helped get hired to work on our base camp. They always have smiles on their faces and shake my hand, “Shukran (thank you) mista (mister), Shukran.” According to my two interpreters, we are the first unit to follow through with a promise to hire people from the area. The first time I went out to gather names from villages for potential work, I was met with harsh looks and skepticism. The old unit did the same thing, but never followed through. The following week when I said, “You and you, can you be at work tomorrow” and then hired them, word spread quickly and before long I was inundated with lists from every Sheik and mayor for 100 square miles. To date we have hired 54 Iraqi civilians and in the process of hiring another 6. Those are 60 lives we have given hope, 60 lives that are able to provide for their families. In addition to those people we hired to work on the base camp, The 9 projects we were able to get funding for and are now various stages of completion, hired approximately 50 people each to work daily. That’s approximately 450 additional lives we have changed by helping them provide for their families.

The team escorted the 975^th MCT (Movement Control Team) from Los Alamitos, CA to two schools on Tuesday. They will be leaving soon and had several hundred book bags filled with school supplies. As you’ll see in coming photos, the children were extremely happy to receive the bags. Out of the two schools, 500 lucky students benefited from generous American donations. In fact, the 975^thhad bags left over and asked when we could take them out again. More than likely the bags will be left for the next unit to inherit and distribute.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” –Aesop

Headmaster and students from one of the two schools visited. Over 400 book bags and 15 soccer balls were donated to this one school alone. This little school has been neglected by the government, both previous and current for a long time. In fact, I believe it’s one of the only mud schools remaining in this area…27SEP05

SSG Pena is shown holding a block of mud and straw used to construct many of the buildings in this area, and in this case, the school...27SEP05

The top few pictures really need no explanations. The children are so excited to see us whenever we show up, whether it is the first time to visit with them, or the one hundredth, their enthusiasm is always the same. Of course these aren’t pictures of mutilated children, so the media really doesn’t care to show you the happiness and joy the children show for us. Actually, the above photos are cut out card board children we managed to pose in various positions…life-like aren’t they?

Hey kids, this is a classroom full of Iraqi kids who like to disrupt class. There were 15 kids in there. Parents back home would have a cow if our schools were allowed to discipline our kids like this. I see no problem with it myself. Personally, I would rather be in school than the alternative, working the fields from sun up until sundown. A few issues ago I mentioned once the children are done at school for the day, they go immediately home and go to the fields. School is somewhat of a welcome break for many rural Iraqi children.

No one was left out, even the problem children got book bags...27SEP05

These were taken at the second school...yes, more staged card board cut out Iraqi children…27SEP05

River gate prior to renovation

Same gate after completion. This gate restricts the flow of water from the Hilla River to various villages downstream and affects thousands of lives...01OCT05

This is another school about 75% completed.

Many of you may recall the two mud/straw structures I took photos of prior to renovation of this school. Well, here are the new classrooms taking their place. Once all projects are completed I will show a before and after of the work. In some cases it’s amazing to see the quality of work done with only rudimentary tools.

The contractor decided to lay tile in the courtyard instead of leaving it as dirt.

This young man is Grant Churchill from Corpus Christi. His dad is a huge supporter of us and shared this picture with me. "Grant loves you guys and literally prays for you all." Well Grant, I appreciate your continued support of the troops and good luck through out your football season. To those of you from Missouri, HOOK’EM HORNS! Hey, there’s always next year…oops, no there’s not, we don’t have another chance to practice against you guys until ???

I was so touched by this e-mail I wanted to share it with everyone. Thank you Mary for your continued support.

We are all so wrapped up in our own little selfish worlds that we oftentimes forget the true heroes, the "United States of America hero, the Soldier".

And might I add, we've all suffered to some degree at one point in time or another in our lives, some more than others....., but think about it....., our soldiers are more than suffering because every day they are away, they lose those days of their lives with their loved ones and friends. Those missed days are irreplaceable, erased priceless moments of being there to see their children born, say that first word, take that first step, here their precious little laughs, see their son or daughter graduate, get married, etc. Folks, nothing can replace these Kodak moments......, we, on the other hand, are here to experience them, our troops aren't. And it is because of these brave soldiers that we are blessed with the opportunity to experience all of these "Kodak moments".

So please, don't hesitate to greet and thank all the soldiers you might encounter in your daily life. Say a prayer for those who have lost their loved ones, never to return to their land of birth, of freedom that other soldiers went to war for. Say a prayer for those children who will never know their "soldier" parent were it not for a photo in uniform because they fought for what they believed in, the freedom to live in this great country of ours, the U.S.A., with all its idiosyncrasies, it is still "the land of the free".

So smile at that soldier, show them that they are truly appreciated...., remember, you never know until you have walked in that soldier's boots, freedom has its price. America needs to wake up to the needs of its soldiers. So many times I hear the argument that "well, they knew when they signed on the dotted line"....., I often wonder how many of us would of done the same thing. Our soldiers don't just "sign on the dotted line" because they want a free education or an opportunity to travel to faraway countries...., believe you me, there's more to it than meets the eye...., they are prepared "to go to bat for you and me".

"Thinking of you (the soldier) while you're away...., for your safe return we pray."

God bless America and the American soldier.

Please take time to visit Michael Lubke’s website: http://www.mlub.blogspot.com. He has taken a personal interest in helping the team by posting our newsletters and he’s a University of Texas undergrad student. That alone makes him okay in my book, Thanks Mike.

Finally, I met a classy lady this week and promised to plug her in this week’s newsletter. Her name is Katherine Kersten and she is with the Star Tribune in Minnesota. She’s a classy lady because she’s a columnist who speaks for the soldier, and she replied to my e-mail and requested to be placed on the mailing list. Thanks Katherine. You can read her column at startribune.com.

2005-10-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

109,866 people on three continents. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Saturday, 24SEP05. As I put the newsletter together, I can’t help but think of my fellow Texans enduring Hurricane Rita. I have family that lives in the Houston Area that had the common sense to get out of there. They didn’t sit around and blame the government or the President for not helping them. The heeded the warning and left everything but what they could fit in their vehicles. What will be waiting for them when they return is a big unknown. For those of you who are religious, please say a kind word for everyone affected by this Hurricane.

You know, I think I’m going to stop eating in the chow hall. Every time I do I see something else that makes me want to throw something. Take yesterday for instance, I’m sitting there watching Bill O’Reilly sparing with Phil Donahue. I’m not going to bore you with details, but the jest of the discussion was America cutting and running from Iraq. Donahue was all for us getting out and Mr. O’Reilly was defending our being here. You know, I provide Mr. O’Reilly, Mr. Hannity, and several others with plenty of ammunition week after week. Can someone please tell me why these guys refuse to show the good over here and shut the anit-war protesters mouths? Of course Mr. Hannity hasn’t replied to me and I’m certain he hasn’t replied to anyone else who so eloquently told him off on the team’s behalf. I can honestly say I was not surprised by the responses y’all forwarded to me. It makes the team proud to know there are so many of you out there who appreciate what we do for the people of Iraq. It does somewhat sadden me to know the media refuses to embrace the good things going on here. I thought, FOXNews was an exception to mainstream media, but I guess they are wolves in sheep’s clothing, “Fair & Balanced” my backside. Please take time to visit Michael Lubke’s website: http://www.mlub.blogspot.com. He has taken a personal interest in helping the team by posting our newsletters and he’s a University of Texas undergrad student. That alone makes him okay in my book, Thanks Mike.

The projects are going along very well, and in some cases going much quicker than expected. Amazing how much work gets done when you have about 50 laborers a day helping renovate a school. Many of the projects will be done within the next few weeks. After that, I guess we’ll just go back to what we were doing before the projects; visiting the villages, distributing donated items and treating the sick.

I want to thank the students and teachers who are taking the opportunity to send questions and have them answered by my interpreters. It’s one thing to read about things in books, it’s another to have someone answer your question that actually lives in the country you’re studying. Ms. Morey’s freshman class from San Angelo ISD is the first to send questions to my interpreters. Thank you very much and you’ll get the answers very soon.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul.

“People prefer to follow those who help them, not those who intimidate them.”

–C. Gene Wilkes

To reacquaint, or in some cases acquaint you with the team, standing l/r; SSG Farr, SSG Pena, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SPC Moses, and SPC Blanchard. Kneeling from l/r; CPT Walton (non-team member) SPC Watson, Iraqi Interpreter Delshad, and SPC Khan. This photo was taken in front of the Ishtar Gates leading into the Ancient City of Babylon…26JUL05

Newspaper clipping sent to us by SSG Wasson's wife...how very true.

This is one of our school renovation projects. This photo was taken on 11SEP05

This is the same school taken on Monday, 19SEP05. As I explained earlier, the work is going along better than expected. It also makes a huge difference when you have people wanting to work and the weather cooperates. We haven’t had a measurable amount of rain since April. This school has on average 40-45 workers everyday. The contractor knows the importance of getting the project done in a timely manner, but wants to do a good job. The children who normally go to this school are either going elsewhere until it is complete, or not going at all.

This is the all female school located in a nearby city, taken 13SEP05

This is the same school taken on 20SEP05. The contractor has really done a good job on this project and at this stage the project is at 90% completion. This particular school had the perimeter wall removed and a new one installed and the W/C (water closet-bathroom) was repaired. By next week’s newsletter it should be 100%.

This is one classroom built to replace the mud structure they used as a classroom. This school is approximately 60% complete.

The Sheik of this village was so pleased with our choosing the school in his village for renovation; he invited us for a traditional Iraqi lunch. The menu items included; roasted chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, dates, bread, bananas, apples, and of course chi (tea) afterward. The Sheik told us once the school is complete they will prepare two lambs and have a big feast. I learned early on in this line of work what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger…but the suffering you have to go through makes me wish I was dead sometimes. I figure if they’re hospitable enough to prepare a meal for me I better partake in at least a little of it. Pictured from left to right, SPC Moses, Iraqi Interpreter, 2LT Colicher, CPT Nikerson, and yours truly. It was CPT Nickerson’s first trip into “the wild” and we let everyone know, as you’ll soon see.

With the beginning of school, pens, pencils, and so forth are in high demand. We wanted to initiate CPT Nickerson by allowing him to pass out such items. It started out very neat and orderly considering there were nearly 75 kids. Notice the boys making sure the pens have ink. The Iraqi Govt supplies most of the schools, and on occasion, especially during Saddam Hussein’s Regime, many of the pens did not work.

But, as you can see after a few minutes, the feeding frenzy got the best of him and he threw up his hands and surrendered. You know it’s pretty bad when a commissioned officer surrenders to a bunch of school kids. Nonetheless, he enjoyed himself and thanked us for taking him out. I truly feel sorry for people who spend their entire time on a base camp or escorting KBR convoys. Unless you get out and interact with the people, and realize they’re not much different from you and I, then you really can’t say you served in Iraq or helped rebuild a country.

We had four large boxes of clothes in our connex (storage trailer). One day we decided to hand those out and the next few pictures are of that event. 2LT Colicher is seen here with one of our interpreters.

It's a great feeling to see a child's eyes light up when we hand out items.

As soon as we opened the box, we just stood back and let them have what they wanted. We had enough clothes and shoes for 20 kids, and that's about how many there were in this one family

Once word got out we were handing out clothes, you could feel the ground shake as kids came running from everywhere.

Anyone wishing to send donated items please do so by the middle of October. Our unit is due to hand over authority to another unit in mi-November and I cannot guarantee they will be as friendly or willing to distribute items as we have. I would also like for everyone to visit; operationiraqichildren.org, and anysoldier.com. These two organizations alone have done a wonderful job introducing many of you to our team and supporting our efforts by sending donated items. I know there are many other organizations, but these two hold a special place in our hearts…Thanks.

2005-09-18T11:47:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

Staff Sgt Paul Farr writes:
"108,727 people on three continents. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 18SEP05. Before I go off on a tangent, I want to thank fellow Dallas Police Officer Tony Hernandez, he managed to get pictures of the team aired on FOX 4 News in Dallas. Thanks for the Officer Assist Bro. Okay, many of you know how opinionated I can be about certain topics; well I have to pull out my soapbox again so bare with me. I was enjoying my morning bowl of oatmeal and nearly spit it all over the place when I overheard Andersen Cooper with CNN make one of the most ludicrous statements I’ve heard in a while. He was speaking with a history professor from Tulane University and stated, “I’m afraid this story (Hurricane Katrina) is going to just go away and people will forget what happened here.” Hey Mr. Cooper, you mean like the war in Iraq? It’s funny how the media is so quick to jump on what’s going on over here when it’s controversial, like Abu Graib. Another story that really got my blood pressure going was the picture of the President writing a note about needing to go to the restroom. I truly believe some of the people who decide to air some of these stories are on drugs, probably crack cocaine. I think they take a hit from a crack pipe and as the smoke is getting in their eyes, they say, “Hey, you know what would be funny, let’s print a picture of the President asking to go to the bathroom.” I’m not amused at all and it’s pretty (expletive) sad. It’s sad how the media is more willing to jump on a stupid note than showing medics helping Iraqis, or better yet, Iraqis rebuilding their country. I guess that’s where my newsletter fills the void. Please take time to visit Michael Lubke’s website: http://www.mlub.blogspot.com. He has taken a personal interest in helping the team by posting our newsletters and he’s a University of Texas undergrad student. That alone makes him okay in my book, Thanks Mike.

I have good news to report this week. All of the projects have begun and going well. The communities are buzzing with excitement and anticipation of the projects completion. The projects needing the most work will take approximately 50 days from start to finish. Those include the renovations of the three schools. The quickest projects (electrical) should take less than a month and the water projects should take about 30 days. It’s impressive to watch the laborers complete tasks without the aid of electrical equipment. All of the materials are brought to the site, mixed and applied by hand. It’s especially gratifying for the team to go into these villages and be swarmed by the workers, thanking us for providing them opportunity to work and provide for their families and to improve the standard of living for the entire village. The team has such a good reputation in the outlying areas we are considered sons to many of the villages. It’s a good feeling to go into a village and be welcomed as one of their own. The hospitality of the Iraqi people in the rural areas is one thing I will always remember and miss when I rotate home.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul."

“Some people give time, some money, some their skills and connections, some literally give their life’s blood. But everyone has something to give.” –Barbara Bush

"To reacquaint, or in some cases acquaint you with the team, standing l/r; SSG Farr, SSG Pena, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SPC Moses, and SPC Blanchard. Kneeling from l/r; CPT Walton This photo was taken in front of the Ishtar Gates leading into the Ancient City of Babylon…26JUL05 (non-team member) SPC Watson, Iraqi Interpreter Delshad, and SPC Khan."

"There were 150 students assembled together on this day. We had several soccer balls, shoes, and uniforms donated by a company in the US. This is one of our favorite schools and we chose them to be the recipients of the soccer equipment…13SEP05"

"Pictured are some of the shoes and soccer balls. The Headmaster of the school is on the left and one of the 6 teachers is on the right. The Headmaster is our equivalent to a Principal....13SEP05"

"These young Iraqi boys are taking time out of their Islamic Lesson to pose for a picture. The Iraqi schools are similar to ours in America when it comes to class and age structure. They have a Primary School which is the same as our Elementary School. They hold grades 1-6. Intermediate School holds 7-9 and High School is 10-12. In grades 1-4, their lessons consist of Math, Arabic, History, Geography, Islamic Lesson, Sports, and Art. Once they reach 5^th grade they will begin to learn English. The top phrase says; “In name of God he is most merciful, compassionate.” The bottom lines read, “Thanks to God who guides us. If he is not guiding us, we will not be, but Allaha who did it. Arabic is a language not easily translated into English and sometimes makes no sense to us. Even harder is to try and read or write it. I know the ACLU would have a cow if this was in an American school…13SEP05"

"I mentioned last week about drinking tea pretty much wherever we go. It's a custom to offer tea to friends or business associates. It's served taste bud removing hot with about 1/3 glass of sugar. I found out early about 2 of those and your awake for a long time. Being a Southern boy, I’m a fan of sweet tea, but WOW! You can almost feel the enamel sliding off your teeth."

"Often found lurking in the shadows, the ever elusive SSG Wasson is never too far from us, helping provide security during our meeting engagements with key leaders…13SEP05"

"This one of our project schools located in a nearby city. This particular school is an all-girl school. This school is only two years old; however, the perimeter wall has fallen down and the bathroom is in disrepair. Due to these two problems, many girls refused to attend school because they were forced to go to neighboring homes if they had to go to the bathroom. This embarassed them so badly they refused to attend school."

"With the walls and bathroom being repaired, the girls are happy and coming back to school again...13SEP05"

"These are some of the students waiting to be released for the day. In Iraq, the school days start at 8:00 a.m. and ends around 12:00 p.m. Each class is about 45 minutes long. For those students reading this, don’t think Iraqi kids are getting over; they attend school 6 days a week. Plus, school is pretty much the only free time they have during daylight hours. From school, if they live in rural areas they will go straight to the field and work until sundown, or tend to the flocks of sheep, goats, or herds of cattle. If they live in the city or urban areas they will work in the family shop doing odds and ends. They don’t have the luxury of sitting in front of a television or going to the mall…13SEP05"

"From l/r: SSG Farr, Iraqi Police Officer, Project Contractor, Girl's School Headmaster, & 2LT Colicher. The Headmaster was so excited we stopped by to check on the status of the project. She thanked us profusely for choosing her school to repair. She said not only will the repairs help the current students, but many generations to follow. She also called us her sons and said we were welcome to come visit her whenever we could…13SEP05"

"This is another one of our schools we are having renovated. Obviously, this was taken prior to the beginning of
work."

"This is the same school minus the old mud classrooms. The two classrooms will be replaced by brick and will also be wired with electricity...16SEP05"

"I mentioned earlier how everything is mixed and applied by hand, here you go. This man is severely crippled, yet the contractor found it in his heart to hire him. There is little if no discrimination when it comes to working. If you can give an honest days work, then you can work, no matter what physical ailments you may have. Unlike in the US, there is no welfare system that allows people to sit on their backsides and collect unemployment or welfare. If you don’t work, you can’t provide for your family…period!...16SEP05"

"Material that will be used in the renovation of this school...16SEP05"

"When we rolled into this town, it was the first time Coalition units had visited them. Needless to say people were running everywhere, trying to figure out why we were there. The women and small children were gathering dates that had fallen to the ground. They actually had someone shimmy up the tree and knock the dates to the ground. Even though we had nothing to offer them this trip, they still gathered around to see real live Americans…16SEP05"

2005-09-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

3^rd/112^th Armor BN (FIST)

Panther S-5 (Civil Affairs Team)

56^th Brigade Combat Team

36^th Infantry DIV (Texas National Guard)

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP


Staff Sgt. Farr writes:

"105,883 people on three continents. That’s the latest estimate of people receiving the newsletter as of Sunday, 11SEP05. With the beginning of a new school year, and teachers from all over the United States asking to be included in newsletter mailing list, I think my estimate is rather conservative. Nonetheless, we are amazed by the popularity the newsletter is receiving. I continue to send it to the major networks along with FoxNews, MSNBC, and the likes with no replies. I know everyone’s attention has been switched from Cindy (what’s her name) and Natalie Holloway to the destruction in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. That’s why I continue to do the newsletter. To let people know there is still a war on and men and women are making sacrifices everyday to help rebuild a nation and defend ours.

I would like to extend a special thanks to Michael Lubke. He’s a University of Texas undergrad student, which makes him okay in my book, and he graciously requested permission to put the newsletters on a website for others to enjoy. This makes it much easier for people who can’t usually enjoy it the way I send it out to view them. Please visit his website at: http://www.mlub.blogspot.com

We have good news to report on the projects. We received initial payments, and made those payments to the contractors to begin the projects. Also, the electrical project I reported on last week as being nearly complete has been completed way ahead of schedule. The contractor initially estimated it would take 50 days to emplace the support poles and run the electrical line. But it only took him 14 days. We visited one village that benefited from the line being put in and they were so appreciative. We were invited by the local Sheik for tea or chi (pronounced ch-eye) in Arabic. The Sheik explained they could now run ceiling fans or air conditioners or refrigerators without using a generator. I know the concept of living without electricity is just as foreign to us as someone who is enjoying it for the first time. Amazing how we live in the 21^st The team is happy we could help bring a little more happiness to so many who have done without for so long. Century and there are so many places in the world that have no clue what electricity is, or what electricity without the aid of a generator is like.

Also this week, we attended a very important meeting with about 50 Sheiks and village representatives from all over our Area of Responsibility. The purpose was to address some security issues and concerns we have around our base camp. Many of you already know we were hit with mortar fire a couple of weeks ago. Not to mention we’ve had some IEDs (roadside bombs) targeting our patrols and convoys. The message conveyed to the attendees was that if they can’t get a handle on the insurgent problem and quit harboring them, there would be no more projects, to include shutting down the projects about to get started. And, we would be forced to conduct more aggressive combat operations, something the local villages surely would not enjoy, and something those of us who have been fostering a positive relationship would not enjoy. That point sunk in and a “concerned citizen” warned our forces of an IED near one of our patrol routes. Thankfully, the IED exploded prematurely before any of our troops or Iraqi Forces stumbled across it. The team conveys the same message every time we go out; if you take care of us, we’ll take care of you.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul."

“Our lives change by what we do, not by what others do to us” -Shannon Earls

"To reacquaint, or in some cases acquaint you with the team, standing l/r; SSG Farr, SSG Pena, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SPC Moses, and PFC Blanchard. Kneeling from l/r; CPT Walton This photo was taken in front of the Ishtar Gates leading into the Ancient City of Babylon…26JUL05 (non-team member) SPC Watson, Iraqi Interpreter Delshad, and SPC Khan."

"On this particular visit, we handed out donated sandals and shoes. With the onset of school and eventually the rainy season, the kids are grateful to get new shoes. I know some of the pictures you see most children have no shoes. That's because they prefer not to wear them, they save them for school. We noticed that in the south when we handed out shoes for the first time. We asked why they didn’t put the shoes on when they received them and they said the shoes were for school, not for playing or working outside…06SEP05"

       
"This little guy's father told us his teeth hurt and chewing on the flip-flop felt good to his teeth.  I never thought of
a flip-flop as a teething ring, but whatever works I guess…06SEP05"

"Chaplain Wallace tagged along for this trip and had a goodt ime handing out sandals to the children. He's
another that doesn't go outside the base camp too much, but we invite him along whenever he can get out
06SEP05"

"This is one group of kids that love us when we come around their village. By the end of our deployment,
every kid that lives along this road should have an entire Beanie Baby collection...07SEP05"

"SPC Moses having a Pepsi moment. Some of the more hospitable villages give us cold drinks when we
come to visit. That’s pretty much how we gauge if they’re friendly.You offer me a Pepsi, and as SSG Wasson puts
it, “you’re a crafty insurgent” No Pepsi offered usually means no repeat visit."

"We first found these triplets a few weeks ago. We mostly see them out tending to their herd of sheep,
but today they were helping wash clothes. We noticed the one in the middle with the "shiner" and SSG Pena
wanted to stop and check on her. She didn't want to say what happened, but it was pretty evident. This is
the type of clothing the girls in rural areas wear. Nothing else is really permitted by the male dominating society they
live in. As they get older, they will not be out in plain view as much unless they are working and then they will be
required to cover their faces."

"The next time you just have to water your yard or enjoy a nice cool drink of water, think about the people who
have to use this for drinking, cooking, bathing, and irrigating crops. Yep, this canal is the only source of water
in this area and they make the best with what they got…07SEP05"

"One of our project schools prior to renovation work"

"Same school after two days of work. The entire perimeter wall seen in the above photo is completely gone.
The contractor estimates the school will be fully renovated by the 23rd of September, minus the perimeter wall.
The school's headmaster postponed the start of school until then. Once the school building itself is completely
renovated, the students will be allowed to attend school and the contractor will continue to replace the wall until
he’s complete."

"Carrying on with the Army tradition, SPC Moses reads the orders promoting PFC Blanchard to SPC.
SSG Pena, medical section NCOIC waits to pin the rank...08SEP05"

"SSG Pena proudly pinning SPC rank to the collar of newly promoted SPC Blanchard…08SEP05"

"For the Longhorn Fans, I take BEVO Duck and his trusty sidekick Tripod on every mission as good
luck charms. As you can see, Tripod has been wounded a couple of times and fitted with prosthetic legs.
He’s also been awarded the Bronze Star with “V” device and a Purple Heart. He’s seen more action than
all the officers being awarded the Bronze Star in our unit."

"I think a Texas sized “Congratulations” are in order for Vince Young & the Texas Longhorns…that was
a helluva game. Some other Longhorn fans and I got yelled at for making too much noise in the chow hall this
morning while we watched the game. Too bad all those Ohio State fans had to go home with their heads down.
Man, they new the game was coming 4 years out and still lost, how very sad. Yes, I’m very much a trash talker
when it comes to the Longhorns. This photo was taken at the beginning of the deployment in Southern Iraq.
SSG Farr seized the opportunity to recruit more Longhorn Fans and after about a month, you couldn’t go anywhere
in southern Iraq without being flashed Hook’em Horns."

2005-09-06T15:44:00.000-07:00

Central Iraq

WEEKLY ROLL-UP

"I’m happy to report one of our electrical projects is nearly complete. It is 2.2 kilometers of electrical line that will bring power to 600 homes. One of the villages that will benefit from the new line was so thankful; some of the villagers told me the team has such a good reputation in the area that they love when we come to visit. The other eight projects should begin in about two weeks and I’ll keep everyone abreast of their progress.

Those of you wishing to send clothes, shoes, blankets, etc; please don’t. I would rather you find an organization in the United States to donate them to to help out our fellow Americans. As much as I enjoy handing out donated items to the Iraqi people, we need to take care of our own people first and foremost. As a caveat to that, if anyone feels compelled, please send what you want and we’ll see it gets distributed. However, please keep the toys and school supplies coming though, with the onset of school quickly approaching, we can use all the school supplies we can get our hands on.

Welcome to the “First Timers” receiving the newsletter. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to pass it around to as many people as you would like, that’s what it’s here for. Thanks for the continued support of the troops; we truly appreciate all the letters of encouragement, e-mails, and boxes. I will be more than happy to entertain any and all questions, comments, or requests. Finally, “if you can read this, thank a teacher, if you can read it in English, thank a Veteran.” Have a good week and Hook’em Horns, Paul."

2005-09-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

"To reacquaint, or in some cases acquaint you with the team, standing l/r; SSG Farr, SSG Pena, 2LT Colicher, SSG Wasson, SPC Moses, and PFC Blanchard. Kneeling from l/r; CPT Walton (non-team member) SPC Watson, Iraqi Interpreter Delshad, and SPC Khan. This photo was taken in front of the Ishtar Gates leading into the Ancient City of Babylon…26JUL05"
“History does not entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid” GEN Dwight D. Eisenhower

2005-09-06T15:29:00.001-07:00

"This is part of the perimeter wall of a school that we are going to have renovated. This is an all girl school and the entire wall collapsed after only two years. The bathroom is also going to be repaired. For the past year the girls had to use neighboring houses if they had to use the restroom. Many of the girls were so embarrassed they refused to go to school. Now we’re giving them a reason to go back…Central Iraq"

2005-09-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

"This is another school scheduled to be renovated once we get the "green light." This school is located in a rural area and has a student population of 400. Like most schools in the rural areas, the boys attend in the morning and the girls go in the afternoon. Unlike most schools in the states, Iraqi children go to school 6 days a week. Their only day off is Friday as it is considered a religious holy day, much like our Sundays."

2005-09-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

"This is the same school; built in 1974 it was neglected by the former Regime. Nearly all of the windows are broken and the roof leaks during rainy season. The contractor is also going to repair the wall and renovate the restroom. During the course of the reconstruction process, the contractor estimated he would employ approximately 50 laborers daily from the local village."

2005-09-06T15:26:00.000-07:00

"Out of the nine projects we have received funding for, three were to renovate schools. This particular school is then one in most need of repair and renovation. The mud portion of the school will be demolished and two new class rooms built in its place. This school was built in 1961 and like the previous school shown, severally neglected. The mud portion is actually two separate class rooms and was built by the villagers when overcrowding became an issue. They have no electricity and the roof also leaks during the rainy season. Yes, that is a thatched roof."

2005-09-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

"This is the inside of the above classroom. Kids back home, be happy with the schools you have. You have no idea what it’s like until you have to walk miles in the burning heat to get to school, and then sit in an un-air conditioned class."

2005-09-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

"We brought along again this week someone who never leaves the fire base, CPT Upperman. We paired him up with SPC Moses to pass out toothbrushes w/ holder, and toothpaste. Oral hygiene is a big problem in the rural areas and with no dentists nearby, any little help we can provide them is appreciated…Central Iraq, 04SEP05"

2005-09-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

"SPC Moses is shown handing out donated toys. This was only our second time to this village, but the kids were extremely well behaved and appreciative…Central Iraq, 04SEP05"

2005-09-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

"If it seems like it’s the “SPC Moses Show” this week, you’re right. We have several on leave right now and the bulk of the work during the missions is falling on his shoulders. Here he is shown cleaning a cut Iraqi boy’s hand…Central Iraq, 04SEP05"

2005-09-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

"SSG Farr with the help of his interpreter, explain to villagers the process for getting projects nominated by the Iraqi government. As I have explained in the past, the Coalition Forces were able to build schools or work on other projects without really including the Iraqi government in the process. Now with a legitimate government in place, we educate the people on how to use their government and make them work for the people. We also tell them if the people they elected can’t help them, then to vote them out of office. I’ve even encouraged some of the more vocal people to run for office…Central Iraq, 31AUG05"

2005-09-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

"No words necessary to describe this photo...in some of the smaller villages we found it is much easier to fill clear plastic bags with pens, pencils, candy, toys and in some cases sunglasses for distribution. The kids love it because they get more than one thing…Central Iraq, 04SEP05"

2005-09-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

"SSG Wasson was kind enough to jump up on the gun to provide security while the medics treated civilian patients…Central Iraq, 04SEP05"