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Afghanistan's Korengal Valley
Yesterday was Veteran's Day (or Armistice or Remembrance Day, depending on where you live), a day set aside to honor those who have served in the military. Today, on the day after, it seems appropriate to share some photographs of U.S. soldiers currently in the thick of war in Afghanistan. Getty Images photographer John Moore spent some time recently in Afghanistan's Korengal Valley, near the Pakistani border, with Viper Company of the 1-26 Infantry, and brought back these images, documenting what he saw. The final two photographs do not involve Korengal, but are striking examples of these difficult and complex times, and the sacrifice of one American family. (31 photos total)
A 50 caliber machine gun points out towards an Afghan village October 23, 2008 at the U.S. Army combat outpost Dallas in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. OP Dallas is located in the Korengal Valley, site of some of the heaviest combat between American forces and Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan. (John Moore/Getty Images)
U.S. Army officers fly back to the unit headquarters following a memorial service for Sgt. John Penich October 23, 2008 at the Korengal Outpost in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. Penich, from Beach Park, Illinois, was killed by a mortar round while in combat October 16. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
Artillerymen await coordinates before firing a 155mm Howitzer on a Taliban position October 22, 2008 from Camp Blessing in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. Their unit, Charlie Battery, 3rd Battalion of the 321 Field Artillery, has fired more than 5,900 shells since they deployed to Afghanistan less than a year ago, making it the busiest artillery unit in the U.S. Army, according to to military officers. They most often fire in support of Army infantry units fighting Taliban insurgents in the nearby Korengal Valley. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
A monkey rides on the back of a U.S. Army soldier October 23, 2008 at combat outpost Dallas in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. The monkey went along as a temporary mascot with soldiers who were switching out with comrades who had been in the remote outpost for a week. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Joseph Debose, 26, stands amongst village elders as Afghan and American forces search for weapons October 25, 2008 in the Korengal Valley of Kunar Province in eastern Afghanistan. Taliban insurgents enjoy widespread public support in the contested valley. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
U.S. Army Spc. Clayton Hodge, 22, rests after climbing a mountainside on patrol October 26, 2008 in the Korengal Valley of eastern Afghanistan. He and fellow members of the 1-26 Infantry are involved in some of the heaviest fighting between American forces and Taliban insurgents. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
An Afghan elder from the Korengal Valley speaks during a meeting with U.S. and Afghan military officials October 30, 2008 at the Korengal Outpost in eastern Afghanistan. U.S. and Afghan officers tried to convince the elders to accept a new paved road through the Korengal Valley as part of a large American development project. The elders refused the road, however, saying that they would prohibit anyone in their valley from working on the project. The Taliban is very popular in the Korengal Valley and most of the elders have strong family ties to local Taliban fighters, who oppose the American presence in their area. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
A bullet hole mars the view from an armored Humvee as an Afghan soldier races towards a Chinook transport helicopter for his two-week leave from the Korengal Outpost October 29, 2008 in eastern Afghanistan. Viper Company of the 1-26 Infantry as well as Afghan Army soldiers are based there at the remote base and fight in some of the heaviest combat with Taliban insurgents in all of Afghanistan. The road to the outpost is so dangerous that most soldiers can only arrive and depart by helicopter. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
A U.S soldier watches a DVD on his laptop at the Korengal Outpost October 29, 2008 in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. Soldiers stationed at the base will be there for at least a year and receive just over two weeks of leave outside of Afghanistan during their deployment. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
A U.S. Army Chinook transport helicopter sling loads supplies through the Korengal Valley to resupply soldiers in the remote area on October 27, 2008 in Afghanistan. The military spends huge effort and money to fly in supplies to soldiers from the 1-26 Infantry based in the Korengal Valley - the unpaved road into the area is bad and will become more treacherous with the onset of winter. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
A U.S. Army helicopter gunner, his helmet face painted as a skull, awaits soldiers to board his Chinook transport helicopter October 30, 2008 for transport out of the Korengal Valley of eastern Afghanistan. Taliban insurgents had attacked a nearby U.S. Army outpost, and the Americans responded with machine guns, mortars and helicopter gunships. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) #
U.S. Army Spc. Kevin Yeatman, 21, breathes heavily after climbing a mountaintop overlooking a Taliban position October 28, 2008 in the Korengal Valley in eastern Afghanistan. American forces from 2nd Platoon Viper Company of the 1-26 Infantry occupied the strategic mountaintop, and were shot at by Taliban insurgents. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
U.S. Army Spc. Kyle Stephenson grimaces from the sound of outgoing shots during a firefight October 28, 2008 in the Korengal Valley in eastern Afghanistan. American forces from 2nd Platoon Viper Company of the 1-26 Infantry had occupied a strategic mountaintop when they were fired upon by Taliban insurgents. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
U.S. Army Pvt. Jerry Chavez shoots his M-4 rifle on burst during a firefight with Taliban insurgents October 28, 2008 in the Korengal Valley in eastern Afghanistan. American forces from 2nd Platoon Viper Company of the 1-26 Infantry had occupied a strategic mountaintop when they were fired upon by Taliban militia. (John Moore/Getty Images) #
The U.S. soldier depicted in the following two photographs was not stationed in the Korengal Valley, he was, however killed by a roadside bomb along with four other soldiers while on patrol in Gerdia Seria, Afghanistan on September 17th.
Imam Hashim Raza leads mourners in prayer during a funeral for Mohsin Naqvi at al-Fatima Islamic Center in Colonie, N.Y., Monday, Sept. 22, 2008. Naqvi was a Muslim, a native of Pakistan (he emigrated to the U.S. with his family when he was 8 years old and became a citizen at 16) and a U.S. Army officer. He was killed by a roadside bomb while on patrol last week in Afghanistan. (AP Photo/Mike Groll) #
More links and information
Battle Company Is Out There NYTimes.com story about the region by Elizabeth Rubin, 2/24/08
G.I.’s in Remote Afghan Post Have Weary Job, Drawing Fire - NYTimes.com 11/9
Family recalls soldier’s patriotism, loyalty Memorial story about Mohsin Naqvi
Korengal Valley - Wikipedia Entry
Korengal Valley - Google map
Valley of Death NBC News video with Richard Engel
Combat in Afghanistan 60 Minutes video story with Lara Logan
This blogger might want to review your comment before posting it.
I am with all who support our troops. What the Brit does not consider is that most of the men and women who have served in all wars have had no choice as to where they were and are sent. My husband is a Vietnam veteran, and he too was never thanked. I am thankful that he has been a contributing part of society. Many Vietnam veterans are not. He too was thankful to be alive. Out of a small town in Ohio witha population of 5,000 we lost 12 men to Vietnam. My father and my husband's father both served in Worl War II. Be proud of these men and women and with them God Speed home.
People don't realize what turmoil and rugged situations our troops go through to keep us free. Plus the fact that the way they have to live and eat is no enjoyus moment. wake up people and pray for our soldiers that they may all return home safely some day.
STUPID WAR IN IRAQ........ SMART WAR IN AFGANHISTAN.....
REX
GOD BLESS OUR MEN AND WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES WHO ARE ALL
INVOLVED IN THIS HORRIBLE WAR AND ALL THE VETERANS OF PREVIOUS
WARS. THEY ARE THE ONES WHO HOLD OUR FLAG HIGH AND FIGHT TO
KEEP OUR COLORS FLYING FOR US AT HOME.
MAY GOD GRANT AN END TO THIS HORRIBLE WAR AND BRING OUR LOVED
ONES HOME TO US.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
What awesome pictures, it brings you right where the Freedom fighters do their duty!
I'll share this with my 12 and 7 years olds to make them understand what special men of character and courage serve our country.
I grew up in East Germany and know what gift freedom and democracy are. Freedom is not free and these soldiers make sure that we have the most precious gift of all- Peace and Freedom.
God bless America , our Solidiers and their families!
Hey Brit, history lesson, chamberlain was going to be hitler's bitch, thus the country, until germany unloaded on Poland...
i am a nam vet 68 -69. pull our troops out and let a b-29 do to badgad what we did to japan.
To the troops I give my thanks. My husband is serving in a foreign land right now and I pray for him ever day. I support him in what he is doing. I do NOT complain nor tear down what he is doing.
To all the complainers on this blog. You have so much hatred in your heart for anything. You would complain about anything and right now you are directing it towards the USA. It is hard for me to talk to arm chair quarter backs, because there is no logic or reasoning. Their statements are final and usually they complain about something or someone. They are never wrong and they annoy me. Fact: War has been going on since the beginning of time. Whether you believe in creationism or evolution, there is always some fighting for postion. Even the cute adorable fuzzy creatures fight. Do you think waving peace signs and singing happy songs are going to change history. Not as long as people are taking planes and flying them into buildings, but that never happened in your happy world. That is just nieve. You say peace and stop war, but you are the most angry, complaining, evil, backstabbing people I have ever met. I do not like war, but there is evil. Look at your own complaining hearts. It starts there.
Back to our troops. I am so happy to hear all that was said in support of them.
God bless you for your words of encouragement. I also would like to thank all the men and women who serve. Keep up the good work!!!!
==
To the Brit. You preach about history and how America waited 2 years to help you. I guess you have forgotten, since you most likely did not serve in that conflict, that for those two years America supported the Allied powers with weaponry and other supplies. Perhaps if you were not ignorant to the fact that we are all sovereign nations attempting to preserve our own way of life and those of the people in the nations we are deployed to, you would understand that none of us is better than the other. History is written by the victor of course. You sir are not a victor. My assessment is you have never served your nation aside from writing blogs on how America is stupid. I personally came across this site to view pictures of my fellow service men and women. Take pride in yourself, as I do in myself, for who you are and your acomplishments whatever they may be and let the service men and women fight for your right to say what you want on an internet website.
A big thanks goes out to all those who are serving in the war zone. I have it pretty easy up here at West Point, but I know I will be in the thick of it too one day. Keep up the good fight guys.
As to the "Brit," let him keep spreading his ignorant bullshit, the soldiers from his country have also secured the freedom for him to be able to spread his uninformed lible. No matter what conflict we engage in, there will be dissenters. People don't understand that sometimes war in neccessary to maintain the security of nations. In the words of Orwell, I hope the Brit is just not too ignorant to understand that while he is sleeping peacfully in his bed, rough men stand ready to do violence on his behalf in order to protect his freedom.
My heartfelt thanks and undying gratitude go out to all combat troops from USA, Canada, Great Britian, Australia and any others I have left out, who are helping us fight this global war on terrorism. My prayers are with you, that all may come home soon, as victors! God Bless and keep you safe.
The Land of the Free is made possible because it is also the Home of the
Brave. Freedom is acheived thru eternal vigilance and the desire to fight
for what you believe in. America's treasures are there as a result of it's
people's great sacrifices. In the present and the future we must not let
those sacrifices be forgotten and thus be in vain.
Rule Britania, Britania, Rules the Waves -- not much.
Frankly, I don't expect anything less from a pummy whinner as yourself. You're one of the maggots that has nothing good to say about America. You have spent your life drinking sodas and building model airplanes. What else may we expect from a couch potatoe ?
T. McCann, USMC/USMCR, FLC, RVN 66/67
Hey Brit: I'll assume you've forgotten a bit of your own history as well. Maybe the comic book history of WWII has a page or two about Chamberlain, and his selling out of Czechoslovakia? "Here it is, the paper with his name on it!" Appeasement worked REAL well with Hitler, yes? British refusal to sign a mutual defense agreement with the Soviet Union was also a big screw up, going with Poland instead, and Hitler knew all along that you would NEVER lift a finger to help Poland. He was right, of course. Your OWN history, brother, go read that before you spout off about ours.
Enjoy Sharia Law, it's coming down on you as I type this.
I am a veteran of 27 years of combat duty and I ask ... Why are we there then there is no economic benefit to America? We fight terrorism more effectively at home and at times with special missions.
Dear Brit:
Americans have not gone forth to build an empire, dearie. Liberty and freedom for fellow mankind has been rightly motivation. Seems our $$$'s were always welcome and mostly our military were appreciated. But with your comic book reading recommendation, now understand from whence cometh your information. I have dear Brit friends who celebrate 4th of July with us, but I'm sorry you won't be on my A list. Hoping you receive some clear revelation and wisdom soon. You DO evoke some attention, which you must surely enjoy. Keep your powder dry and your lamps filled.....you may need both. An "ole" Army wife, still serving.
I have three of my children in the service my oldest is in Japan,second is in Irag and my youngest is stationed in lackenheath ENGLAND. I am proud of what my children are doing,So I would like for pepole to stop puting down what are men and women are doing in the sevice for the world not just the United States. Because if you let thugs and bulleis run around pepole get hurt and killed. For the britt if you attack America and kill Americans on American soil we should attack in defense no matter what type of wepons the enemy has. I think that when a jet is used to maim,injuer,KILL pepole it is a wepone of mass-destruction.
I just want to say thank you to all the troops, American and allied, for serving us under difficult and often trying conditions. The great majority of Americans support you, no mattter what their political persuasian is. We are grateful for your service and we pray for your safety daily. My nephew got back from Afghanistan this summer and we are all very proud of his sevice. He would go back again in a hearbeat. So would many of us veterans.
Don't worry about the scoffers and nay sayers. They have always been around and always will be. They will always take shelter behind you when you fight for their freedom...and then many of them will turn on you. But most will be grateful for what you did for them. Just remember that and always watch your back.
I spent 23 years as an Army Aviator, and have taught junior ROTC for the past 11- 1/2 years. That's 34-1/2 years wearing the uniform of my country. It has been an honor for me. When I see pictures of you who are currently serving, I get teary eyed and proud at the same time. Thanks for carrying on the great traditions of selfless service and sacrifice. May God Bless each one of you and hold you in His hands. J.B.
I just want to say I am sorry to (The Brit). I do wish we would have first tried to talk with the Germans for a few more months. Had we done that then there would not be any more Brit's out there to write the crap that (The Brit) wrote. My dad was from Scotland but fought with Americans during WWII and then blessed me by coming to the States before my birth. I now serve with the US Military myself and lost my oldest son in Iraq. I end this with letting (The Brit) know that if he would like to talk face to face on this tell me where. Oh wait, he is a Brit he can only talk from a far away.
Dear All,
On behalf of all those fellow Englishmen who would glagly see the annonymouse (insulting spelling intended) ignoramous known as the Brit may say that he doesnt speak for the majority of us.
If he had any family who served he would know that Americans came over to fight in the British Army long before the USA joined the war and that we were all very grateful to the men and women of the American shipping services who risked their lives keeping us supplied.
It is unfortunate that the Internet gives these guys such a loud voice to spout rubbish with.
Our hearts and minds are as much behind your boys on the front lines as our own.
Freedom is always worth fighting for - without it we have nothing and are as sheep before lions.
Obviously this Brit has not studied his history very well! We should not give any credence to this idiots blog, but recognize the fact that our proud American forces in all campaigns have been there to defend and protect our rights we all enjoy today.
We All owe thanks to many other Countries who have made this supreme sacrifice(s) as well. Thank-you!
This Brit certainly does not represent the majority of his country, but he is just typical of a loud mouth coward without basis or facts.
Have we learned anyting from Vietnam or from the British experience with the Muslims? Does it really do any good to build empires in other countries? These people hate us because of our footprints in their countries. If we could get energy independent we could let the Arabs blow up as much of their sand as they want. We need to get out of Arab lands, get off the oil, and pull back to our borders and watch the rest of the world go to hell. These boys who died did so believing BushCo was telling the truth. They weren't, and they need to pay by going on trial for War Profiteering, which is against the Constitution that these boys died thinking they ere protecitng.
to anyone who has anything negative to say, you probally haven't worn the uniform and will never understand. at least aknlowledge that you wouldn't be able to go on your pointless rant if wasn't for the sacrifices of what makes up this great nation. as for me, i'm on my way to basic training in three weeks. go airbourne!
Support the troops and let's bring them home safe and sound!
God bless our Troops, especially our Snipers. Merry Christmas and a safe New Year to all our Men and Women who took the time from their own lives to make the rest of ours better.
Power to you my brother's and my sister's and thank you for beeing there
To the Brit who Says the USA is little more than than a war mongering nation :
"We sleep soundly in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm." Winston Churchill said those words. When Britain needed us in WW2 we fought to defend your country. In my own family, six men went to Europe. Three were killed, two were wounded, and the one stationed in England came back whole because Germany was stopped. Despite your attitude towards us, you may sleep soundly because we are ready to defend even the ignorant,
We Americans back home forget what these soldiers are doing day - in and day-out.I am a Marine Viet Nam vet and truly appreciate their duty to country. The old saying comes to mind,"The U.S. military is at war, the american people are at the mall.' Bless our military, your doing a great job!
Semper Fi,Jasper Cooter
I keep coming back to this article to look at the pictures and read the comments. It saddens me that there is so much vitriol being written here. As I said earlier, my Canadian cousin was killed in Kandahar earlier in the year (note the word Canadian), however his parents are of British origin (note the word British) and he was born here.
I also have a very good friend whos 19 year old son is serving with the Royal Marines in Helmund (note the word Royal, yes Royal, not US). The Royal Marines have lost 5 soldiers in the past week alone to insurgent attacks, roadside bombs and suicide bombers. My good friend as a father, is worried sick for his son, but supports him 100% whether he agrees with why he is there or not. My point is that whilst I recognise that the vast majority of soldiers in the region are American, there are also other nationlaities serving there. Please be mindful of this and let's cut out the nationalist cr**.
My final point is that because of what our nations have stood for over the past century or so, we are all free to voice an opinion on sites such as this, for or against what our 'lords and masters' get us in to. Let's remember that because but for the luck of where we were born it could all be oh so different
To my cousin, I say - I think of you every day and am eternally grateful and respectful that you decided to take the path that you did. I hope that history proves that you did not lose your life in vain.
To my very good friend I say that I 'pulling' hard for your son to come home safely.
First and foremost, from this Vietnam Marine tank commander to any and all US troops here and abroad, THANK YOU!!!
I have run into so many (especially young) Eurpoeans who have this huge chip on their shoulders about America versus them. They think that they have to denigrate America to make their miserable lives better. It is "us" against "them." Well, Fark them. We can win it alone. And we are proving it in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Only the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States have men and women who will fight for another people's freedom. This is a concept unknown to the rest of the World. None of these countries has ever taken a square inch of foreign land except to bury its dead. Our exceptionalism is directly related to our "small l" liberal democratic forms of government based on the knowledge that freedom is a God given right . No government can take it away. Our willingness to offer these inalienable rights to others is unique. These 5 countries' young citizens have paid the ultimate price; "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Yes, we make mistakes. Yes, we are fallible; Yes, we are sometimes corrupt. No, we will not yield to the idea that human life is equal to an animal's. That is what makes these 5 countries separated by a common language the greatest and only hope for the survival of the Human species, so help us God.
To All,
I was born in America. I am not a veteran of war. It took me many years to come to the realization that to protect Christian values one would face opposition. Be it physical or spiritual. God puts obstacles in the way to determine if your willing to do His will. I have known many Nam vets that believe we lost that war. The truth is rarely grasped. The Vietnam war broke the backbone of communism. Who do you serve? There is only one God. Those that know that understand that the sacrificies made are known to Him and are made willingly because it is right. We all fall short but you can bet it is noted when we keep trying to do His will. GOD Bless all HIS children
I will pray for your self return to your loved ones. Keep up the goos job always. My prayers go out to B Company 1-26 INF and all the other units stationed there. God Bless our troops.
To Boria - there are also other countries' soldiers who fight (no need to advertise) or protect in all parts of the world.
These are great pictures, and the grunts in them even greater.
I'm reading more and more whining and crying, and pissing and moaning about a lot of coulda, woulda, shoulda. The bottom line is those who serve their country do so for reasons that extol the best virtues of the human race. Ideological, political, and social arguments are reduced to the common denominator of the person next to them. Duty, honor, integrity, and self sacrifice are not mere words. They are the foundations of character forged every day through their fidelity of a cause far greater than themselves and the world around them. Their world is not one of race, color, creed, religion, or national origin. Their world is brown or green, it’s the world of the uniform they wear, and how well they wear it. It’s not about winning and losing, or right and wrong. It’s awaking every morning, and doing the best with what G-d has endowed them with. It’s living with the shortfalls of knowing who they are. It’s the hope that one day it will be over.
I’ve never quit understood why people seem willing to derogate, malign, and marginalize those who serve their country. It’s a phenomenon that seems to permeate society, and is deeply embedded within the political structure. Isolated situations offensive to their sensibilities are portrayed out of proportion and context of the broader perspective. I suppose it’s a tenant of human nature. To justify one’s own narcissistic interests, it’s necessary to destroy anything outside their neurotic world of greed, jealousy, deception, and betrayal. A world where a person is measured by what they are, and not who they are; and honor, morals, and ethics are bought easier and cheaper than a whore.
It’s great that so many people support these men and women. They have changed, and the world as they knew it has changed. The things they have experienced will leave an indelible mark upon them for the rest of their lives. The men and women who serve their country live in less than optimal conditions. Life is reduced to the basic essentials of shelter, food, and drink. Faced with the reality of their own mortality, their value systems change. The priorities of the rest of the human race have little in common with their reality based experiences of what is essential and necessary. However, when they return, the support of their comrades will not be there. Friends and family will not understand. Society will turn its back, and many will become domestic casualties.
A cover story in the Sunday New York Times in January 19, 2008 stated that 75% of the prison population in the United States is Veterans. Depending upon whose statistics one uses, 35% to 80% of the chronic homeless in the United States are Veterans. How can this be? How can any nation turn its back on those who were willing to sacrifice all of their tomorrows for all of their fellow countrymen’s todays? This is about what is right and wrong. It is the ultimate betrayal. Do we build more prisons to hide the failure of them not only living up to society’s expectations, but more importantly their own expectations? There is a far greater responsibility beyond when the war is over.
I find the growing chorus of voices critical of those who serve in the Armed Forces alarming. Most are subtle in their maneuverings and messages. They are well organized, technologically astute, and determined in their opposition. From the political side, most are covering their incompetence and negligence in failing to govern domestic and foreign policy by using the sacrifice of so many for their own self interests. I hope the support being shown here continues by letting your representatives know what you think. Better yet, become locally involved.
Glad I got that all off my chest. I thought some of those pictures looked very familiar; but different time, different place, and different war.
Anyone over there reading this, kick some butt, and take some names for me.
Semper Fidelis,
Arnold J. Gasper
PFC, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, RVN, 6/69 to 9/70
As always, tough American infantry getting it done keeping the wolf away. Makes me laugh when I see the sorry self centered idiots these patriots are protecting. Wish I was 20 years old so I could enjoy killing Taliban like I did VC and NVA in 66-67. Semper Fi
God bless each and every American soldier. I know they're watch lets us all feel safer may the good Lord watch over them and keep then safe. I'm very proud to be part of a family that has had many members serve and I am very proud of each and every one of them.
Thanks to all our troops.
God bless you all, both American and British Forces and thank you for our freedom
For anyone complaining about a lack of US support during the Falklands conflict, President Reagan quietly offered Prime Minister Thatcher use of US Navy carriers to refuel UK naval aircraft enroute to the conflict. US support to other Royal Navy assets were also offered, as was the redeployment of US naval and air assets to cover UK responsibilities to NATO. While the US tried to maintain a face of neutrality on the issue, you can bet your paycheck behind the scenes it was much different. Whatever/however you may think it, the two are too intertwined strategically to let the other down.
Dear American Heros,
I'm expressing my gratitude for all military members securing our freedoms.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO OUR COUNTRY.
The legend lives on...In GOD We Trust. United We Stand.
Dear American/ british troops (heros)
I want to thank you for our freedom, your dedication you give to our country. I pray for every single one of you. Thanks for making our lives more secure. God Bless you always.
Here is what I do to support our troops deployed overseas. www.peasegreeters.org
I was there at the KOP before it looked so nice, my God bless anyone who is there or going there, you'll need it if you want to come back alive.
Being a vet of three conflicts (WWII Europe),Korea & Viet Nam, my heart goes out to these corageous men and women. But fcor many of the parents,who were l.ined up to spit on us and call us fil.thy names when we came back fropm Nam, I havbe no feelings but disgust. God bl.ess and keep safe those in that fortsaken land and bring them home safely.
There are pro's & cons in all things, what is missing here is, if we love one another & Christ there would be no wars. He died on the cross for us, our men & women are dying on the battle field for us. Please pray for peace all over the world and may God hold you & yours safely in the palms of his hands.
Ther will be wars over there for many more years I am sorry avbout the troops we lost there my prayers go out to their family's
shame on you another country destored,
I ask that God brings you all home safely and Thank you for all you do for me and my familes freedom. God Bless you and yours
Many are with you all in spirit as our Warriors get ready for a 'push' on 'Terry'
(Taliban). May God be with each & every Warrior who is battling these Islamic
NUTS! When the sh*t hits the fan.....take care of bussines...screw the ROE's!
This war is not only about Afganistan - it's about every country and everyone everwhere that participates aids, abets, finances, or otherwise supports terrorism. America and the other countries in the world should destroy all of them. But this job is too big for America alone. If we continue on alone, the rest of the world will continue to disparrage America, call us the Great Satan, laugh at us, drain our human and financial resources, and take all we give with never a thanks. Obama must make call outhers to get on our team and not go it alone.
this
I will keep these brave heros in my prayers and pray that this madness ends soon so they may come home to our precious U. S. Soil. Freedom comes at a high cost and it certainly is not to be taken for granted.......it is not free! These men are laying their lives down in the name of freedom. God Bless each and every soldier who is serving this great nation of ours. Please know how proud of you we are. Thank you for standing up for our freedom and the freedom of others.
I want to thank every soldier, volunteer, helper of any kind for the cause of freedom. I want to thank my son for serving his country. There are so many brave men @ women that are putting there life on the line. With all that this country is facing, it has made me want to become more familar with my Judeo cChristian values and the history of our fore fathers. I believe the lack of respect we are seeing is lack of knowledge with the Bible and history of our Great Land. Our prayers are with you everyday soldiers and son. Love you Mom @ Dad and countrymen @ women
FYI, I call BS on The Brit. I seriously doubt he's British. He references Argentinians. That's American nomenclature. Brits call them Argentines. He's trolling.
Our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq are like the white blood cells of our society, seeking out the infectious agents that would otherwise grow and multiply to cause a terrible disease, even death. If they should fail, which I pray they will not, we could see a horrific pestilence spread throughout the world. Ignorant people will assume it is just a harmless cold. History dictates that we should stop this in it's tracks or we will have learned nothing from history.
God bless all people of good will.
Reference that no British Soldiers are buried in the United States; not true. There is a marker at the Concord Bridge in MA that says two British soldiers are buried there. I have known several British soldiers and airmen and they are courageous and patriotic as our American forces. God Bless the Brits and God Bless our heroic troops....There are odd balls and wierdos in every walk of life including the US and England and we need to focus on those that count.....
America should use their resources to educate the people of America. I believe that the U.S government and army really think that the work they are doing and the wars they are fighting actually makes a difference, but in the war against terror and fanatics, the U.S have become what they are fighting against. Fanatic, fundamentalistic and totally olivious of the world opinion. And stop using the name of god to promote war! Become a secular nation! Quit playing around with thousands of peoples lives because you take the right to use brutal and lethal force! Stop being idiots! I don't believe in hell so i wont tell you to go there, but you should put your faces out of your own asses and realize what american foreign politics are doing with the world today.
It is not 1942 anymore. It is 2009, the world has changed and developed. American politics should too. Stop living in the past!
Words do not express the overwhelming heart ache i have for those with lost ones. Angels do exist and a brighter more loving place takes those in.
Proud wife of sgt and mommy to a to be military boy whom is in rotc.
The words "I am my brother & sisters KEEPER" comes to mind when looking @ these photos. I currently have a son that is in his 4th wk of basic training, and it makes me PROUD not only as his father, but to also know our purpose. I am thankful everyday for the right to FREEDOM and without these soldiers giving their commitment, this world would really be disgraced. OUR PRAYERS OUR WITH OUR TROOPS!!!! MAY GOD BE WITH EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU & YOUR FAMILIES.
T-Bone
The above pictures were the best I have seen.They show the povery that these people live with everyday. And what young Heros are living in. God Bles them All. And Thank You for the Picture of them all.
What else can i do but agree with what the person that wrote #524
So keep the on with the good fight againt the dark side,there is way to many cold hearted -self absorbed,ruthless,scum on this earth that just take what ever they want ,along with your freedom. Kirk
I am so thankful for the brave Men & Women who joined the Armed forces knowing that most likely they would be sent to Iraq and see active duty. War has been a part of our history and their will never be peace in the middle east no matter who we fight.
My prayers and my admiration for all in the arm forces. Thanks to you we enjoy freedom. I hope you get treated fairly when you come back. You deserve the best..
There is plenty of BS to go around in all of the arguments here. The Marines found mustard gas in the Tigris before crossing over into Baghdad. That is a WMD (it is weapons of mass destruction, not mass weaons of destruction. How much mustard gas would you expect to find in the Potomac or Thames?). The 550 metric tons of Yellowcake Uranium found in 2003 and guarded about 12 miles NW of Baghdad until last year have been shipped to Canada for peaceful use. For the Bush haters, we conducted military action in Bosnia without being attacked or waiting for U.N. approval. Most intelligence agencies believed Saddam had WMD and we know he had airplane fuselages where terrorists were training for highjacking and we know the planner of the 1993 World Trade Tower bombers was on his payroll living in Baghdad.
In any event, the wonderful young men and women of the U.S., United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and one or two other countries stepped up, putting their finite, mortal lives on the line for their countries and beliefs; VOLUNTARILY! God Bless them all. they are heroes and winners in life.
G'DAY All; Rock on to our Fighting Forces; Keep your heads down and return safely; this old grunt SALUTES you all!
As a pom (Now Naturalized) who served 13 years in the Australian Military with a Tour of Viet Nam as a Gunt; what our fighting forces are doing these days makes us look like stone age fighters. My Dad escaped from a POW camp in Germany and helped by Patton's Army. Do NOT FORGET; these men, or those of the US air force, they were kids in age; but men by action. Have a look at the white crosses in Saving Pte Ryan; they are NOT props, they are a generation who gave their today for your tomorrow!
To the BRIT; whats you problem? If you did a little more reading you will find out that the US helped in many many ways during the FALKLANDS, not made puplic at the time; including the ground to air missiles used by the Royal Marines.
For SVN; I salute the US DUSTOFF Units who saved many Aussie lives; the choppers & gunships; not forgetting fast air, two Nations; one force, one aim; as Today in Afghanistan. WE WILL REMEMBER; LEST WE FORGET!
Hello . . . You can send supply packages to these guys to help to show your support & gratitude of their efforts to:
B. CO. 1-26IN
KORENGAL OUTPOST
APO AE 09354
We did . . . with Love, from Corpus Christi, Texas!
There is an aire of uncanniness brewing in our country today. Besides the intellectual morons that run our country, we also have a new breed of selfish, greedy and uncarring people. The young mentality has gone to an all-time low and this sad state of society has replaced morals and principles with Nike shoes; love of country with loud and vulgar behavior; kindness, tenderness and warmth with crude & boisterous music & cheap flicks. These young men and women who are giving their lives for us must be commended because they are doing what we all should be doing, restoring the faith in this country and in the American way. The assholes that profit from all this propaganda will eventually be left behind and hopefully our country will be restored to its grandeur it once held. If that should ever happen again it will only be because of the men and women that have given their lives for your freedom [like those in the past that have given their lives for this great country that they never got to see]. IF THEY CAN SEE IT NOW THEY WOULD ROLLOVER IN THEIR GRAVES. So twits and twinks better wake up before it's too late for all of us. Start caring about this country more and yourselves a little less.
To all the soldiers of all the forces fighting terrorism, regardless of uniform - GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!!
To the history buffs, let us all remember that history often repeats itself and we need to be cognizant of what is going on in the world at large as well as in our own countries. Our enemies are many and filled with evil but we have the Duty, the Honor and the Country(ies) that have proven, again and again, that good will always overcome if our resolve never waivers. Let us all do what we can to encourage that stregth in ourselves and others.
Wahai Amerika, Eropa dan Australi yang bersatu memerangi Islam: sebenarnya target utama kalian apa? Apakah ingin membunuh sebanyak mungkin Orang Islam (Muslim) dan menghabisinya seluruhnya? Apakah itu mungkin, tapi apa untungnya untuk kalian? Sekarang hitunglah jumlah biaya untuk membuat kerugian dan kerusakan kepada Orang Islam, semakin banyak kerusaskan dan kerugian Orang Islam semakin kuat suara tertawa kalian, sungguh rusak jiwamu.
Ketika Muslim sedang baca Qur'an dan menyebarkan kebaikan kepada manusia, kalian membunuhnya dari belakang. Jadi kalian itu manusia macam apa?
God Bless you Wesley Bradley.
For all you "America" haters, it was America that was the driving force behind the defeat of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan,it was America that broke the back of the Soviet Union and it was America that rebuilt Japan and Germany to what they are now. Americans are a proud and just people, just don"t piss us off.
The world is made up of sheep, wolves and sheep dogs. These men and women are Americas sheep dogs. They will protect the sheep from the wolves and expect little or nothing in return. They will do this even when the sheep show a dislike for the sheep dog. The problem is, in the eyes of the sheep the sheep dog looks more like the wolf than the sheep and they have a difficult time with this. They will never understand the sheep dog. If you are a sheep thats o.k. we will protect you. If you are a wolf, beware for America's Sheep Dogs are comming for you.
Thee photos depict the life of my son and the soldiers who are his friends in this unit.. I have read each of your l, and the controversy is as confusing and striking as this war. Have any of you stopped thinking long enough to recognize we are all in this together? Our world belongs to all of us, a gift from God. Do you believe that one has more right to a grain of sand or piece of earth than the next? Do you believe that respect for each person who breathes free air has less of an interest in preserving life, peace and unity? We are all entitled. We all long for the powers of those that rule to come to those same conclusions. We are equal. We are all deserving of peace and freedom to enjoy what God has provided. Do you believe your heart can open to your neighbors and know they are no different than you? What can each of us do daily to share what we have with those who are in need, trusting that each person deserves your respect and open mind to different customs and cultures. We all need to fight the good fight in unity, only then will we prevail.
My uncle is over there right now, God Bless Him...
To Carlos,
I will pray for your uncle, as I do all soldiers and their families. Forgive my typing, I have an arm injury, but will make effort to be clear in further communication. I don't know how long your uncle has been there, and you may already know, support is available for you and your family. Check with your local veterans hospital or go online to the website militaryonesource. There appears to be an enormous collective passion expressed just on this comment board. Imagine if every citizen were to share that passion openly, peacefully to those who need to hear us, what a difference could be made? What if the people of other nations involved, were just as passionate for world peace and joined our voices in unity? What if ordinary people, no matter where they are or what heritage they come from, prayed openly together to end this for the sake of freedom and the end of violence and misdirected hate? Are you aware that our First Lady, Michelle Obama has made military families one of her official responsibilities? I thank her, you, all people striving to make our world one that promotes healing and freedom.
Prayers for all the soldiers!
God Bless you Mary Ann, Carlos, First Lady Obama, our soldiers and those in power here and throughout the world. What can we do today to make our word a better one? I know at the very least, I will pray. I will smile and be grateful for all that I have, and remember those that have lost their lives to bring me the peace I carry in my heart, and to those who are here and deployed, may God be with you as you make decisions on how we proceed to end this war. As I view these photos again, and again I ask God to protect you as you carry out your duties. I pray that you all know we are with you in spirit.
Ellie Markell
I'm proud to an allie of such brave men and women who give all to give us freedom these are just word but the emotions behind them are real and can not be put into words all I can say is thanks mate From an Aussie soldier retired
I'll put to rest two questions from earlier in this blog. #103 picture 14 is a picture of SSG Debo and it is an ANA weapon. He traded out his weapon with an ANA soldier because a sniper rifle is not very good waepon to search a mud hut with. It is a good weapon to provide security with. He was in Aliabad and was watching for movement on Honcho Hill. The second question had to do with the age of the soldiers. Yes a large percentage are young in age but old in experience. I'm 41 and got home in January. I spent alot of time with SSG Debo and the soldiers in the Korengal Valley. I have never known finer men in my life. WarHawk 44
im gald im not there again.. i was with 1-32 in the korengal... i cried knowing i would never have to go back to that horrible valley. For those that are still there... keep up the fight.
I visited this site because a very special friend of mine is being deployed to this area in 2 weeks. We have discussed what conditions would be like...I just wasn't getting it and there was tension between us because of this. These pictures and articles have answered so many questions for me..they have shown me the seriousness and severity of each and every deployment our military makes. These pictures told me the story he has been trying to tell me....I think now I get it! He didn't want to scare me..when it is a very, very scary situation. Thanks for sharing the pictures. God Bless the Military at home and far away!!
i was at the KOP 2006 thru 2007 that area is no joke
once dat frist bullet goes past ur head poitics and all dat stuff goes rite out da window.nd da onlii thing dat u think about rite den and der is how ur goin to get u and your men out of dat place
Im a veteran that had been to the same valley. Im with 1-32 INF. A co. 2nd platoon, I know how harsh is the terrain and the living condition of the soldiers we have in that valley. Iam really proud of all the sacrifice and pain that you are doing now. Just dont forget to call in to God everytime and He will help you out.
God Bless to all our soldiers world wide....
As a former Marine and who had been wounded on combat in Vietnam, I have yet to see one piece of evidence that proves to me that our troops and money are needed in Afghanistan. This area of the world for as far back as history is recorded, has been fighting among themselves. Having said that, I am proud of our troops for their sacrfices, duty, honor and service to this country. I am hopeful that all our forces will be brought home safe and we can take care of what lies next for us here.
Thanks to all of you who serve. I couldn't imagine doing your job. These pictures are incredible, and are only a window into a world that is hard to even wrap my mind around. Stay safe, guys and gals. Looking forward to welcoming you home.
Photos showing the American solders pointing guns at the 3rd world enemy. How do these photos inform? Are the viewers really 'shocked' at what they see. These images are not new just updated versions of what you can see in any modern war. The photos lack emotion. The photos only inform the most uninformed. This body of work adds nothing to the debate. Most Americans already know the US has troops in Afghanistan fighting. We already know the troops are doing the best they can. These photos are just glorified snapshots authorized by the DOD like all the work done by imbedded journalists.
Excellent photos. Best wishes from New Zealand to the forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.
I commend all the men and women who are fighting to keep us free'
I had three uncles who fought in World War Two and one was wounded.
God bless them everyone. Betty Clark
To Thomas Kielbowicz, @ COMMENT 520, You Sir are right on." God bless you and your family " I have two boys (Men) That are serving over there now , It's always the US who is always pulling everyone else's ass out of harms way. And to Steve @ COMMENT 522, You Sir are an Idiot, We are The Fn U.N. Always the first ones in and the last ones out (on our dime), THIS IS ABOUT THE U.S. SODIER, SAILOR AND MARINE-- WAKE UP!!!
IF IT WASN'T FOR THE MEN & WOMAN OF MY COUNTRY EVERYBODY IN EUROPE INCLUDING YOU BRIT WOULD BE SPEAKING GERMAN, THATS IF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WERE ALLOWED TO LIVE.. THIS COUNTRY MAY NOT BE PERFECT BUT WE DONT GO TO WAR BECAUSE WE FEEL LIKE IT. AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ(BOTH TIMES), BOSNIA, BEIRUT, PANAMA. THESE WERE ALL DONE TO HELP PEOPLE WHO WERE EITHER BEING SLAUGHTERED OR TO HELP THE PERSON THE PEOPLE ELECTED DEMOCRATICLY. I KNOW, I KNOW IRAQ WAS A CHOICE BUT IF YOU THINK THOSE IRAQIS ARENT BETTER OFF W/OUT
Thank you, US service personnel for your time, effort and lives to protect the people of Afghanistan, as well as the people of the US, in fighting the scourge of the Taliban.
This is where we should be, and I know our troops will do the best they can, which is what they were trained to.
I was not a supporter of the undeclared Iraq war, but I know our troops did their jobs with the level of professionalism we've come to expect from our armed forces, which makes them THE unparalleled fighting force on the planet.
Godspeed, troops, we wish you well, and pray for your safe return.
DO ANYONE KNOW SGT JOHN MOORE
So moved by the photo of U.S. Army Spc., Kevin Yeatman. Our son-in-law is a little older and has served two tours in Iraq, wounded both times. My husband is former army and his father served in the Navy in WWII and Korea. We are so thankful for these men giving up their youth so we can remain safe. As did their predecessors throughout history, these young heros are the only ones standing between us and evil. Please consider adopting a soldier from this hellish place. We have just been assigned to a wonderful young newlywed and father serving in the Korengal Valley. There are many organizations to help you connect with a young soldier who could use your one-to-one support and encouragement.
Only two people have ever been willing to die for you, Jesus christ and the American soldier one died for your soul the other for your freedom
-Tony Blair to parlement
I WAS THERE IN KORENGAL VALLEY WHICH WAS CALLED "KOP" WHEN 10TH MOUNTAIIN WAS THERE IN 2006-2008 "I LOST ALOT OF GOOD SOLDIERS (FRIENDS) OUT THERE BECUASE LACK OF CONSIDERATIONG DUE TO HIGHERS NOT PAYING ATTENTION TO WHAT WAS GOING ON AT THAT TIME ALSO IGNORING CERTIAN FACTS AND HAVING A E-VAC TAKE A F*CKING HOUR AND A HALF TO PICK UP ONE F*CKING SOLDIER TO GET HIM OUT OF THERE FOR BETTER MEDICAL CARE I COULD GO ON AND ON BUT DONT BELIEVE THE GOVERMENT ON WHAT THEY TELL YOU
"Only two people have ever been willing to die for you, Jesus christ and the American soldier one died for your soul the other for your freedom
-Tony Blair to parlement"
What a bullsh*t quotation.
Tony Blair said no such thing.
Moron.
John is a true hero. I go to work with him on 6 Sept 2008, the day he was 1st put in for a Silver Star that now is a being recomended for a Medal of Honor. I hope he gets it.... The next time and last time I saw him was 16 Oct 2008 the day he died. I will never forget you John.
All of you.. have respect for them...! They did not ask for this war ...they were put in it. The US Government had better start taking care of our soldiers and Vets from all wars... I wished I could trade places with my son... or anyones son who is there now. I can just imagine the denile of benefits for these brave men and women . I can not believe older vets like myself can not re-enter due to some BS retirement age requirement. There is no excuse for this discriminatory rule and some of us with prior service know the games very well . Im a Vet from a thankless war !
This is where my son just went to.......the pictures dont make me feel good about him coming home...........be safe 25th id.........