Random thoughts from the Basement.
In any clime and place
Published on December 9, 2004 By Grog In Misc
A friend who is also a retired Marine forwarded this to me today, and it warmed my heart to read. So I hope it warms a couple of yours.

From: Kane LCpl Jessica R
Date: November 26, 2004 3:13:33 AM EST
Subject: A Thanksgiving Story

Dear Mom and Dad,

I, as most would of thought, was expecting a very homesick Thanksgiving.
Although I wish I could have been home, my Thanksgiving was filled with
motivation and inspiration. To start off, the unit got together and the CO
said a couple of words to the unit. He complemented us for our hard work,
and was extremely impressed with the plans we have for the future. We then
had lunch with some MRE crackers, popcorn, and SPAM. Afterwards, like we do
most days, we prepared for the convoy into the city. It was a good convoy
and all went well. While we were in the city, we were asked to get together
because the General wanted to talk to us. The General being, General Casey,
a four star General in the Army who is in charge of all Coalition Forces in
Iraq. He again complemented us on the good work and sacrifices we are
making. He told us that our hard work had paid off and there is no longer a
safe haven for insurgents in Iraq. He then said something that would
inspire the weakest of heart. He said, "The enemy was willing to die for
there cause, and you gave them their wish". He told us that next year when
we are home for Thanksgiving we will be truly grateful for all the gifts in
our life. We can look back at this Thanksgiving and be proud of what we are
doing. Filled with juice and energy, we convoyed back to Camp Fallujah. As
we came to the first gate to the camp, I was in shock because a Marine
Corps Major was stand at the post. Along with the Major was a 1stSgt. I
reported to the Major what convoy we were and how many packs we were
carrying. He told me to proceed and have a Happy Thanksgiving. As we came
to the second gate, a Marine Capt and a SgtMaj were standing the post.
There was not a PFC or LCpl to be found. None of the posts had young
Marines at them;
Officers and Staff NCOs manned them all. The command decided that the young
Marines were going to have the night off to get some good chow. It was
unbelievable, and a wonderful site. The leadership took charge and took
care of the younger Marines. This filled me with a pride indescribable with
words. I am so honored to be apart of an organization like this. Marines
taking care of Marines with such unselfishness. As I went to Thanksgiving
chow with my brothers and sisters, the IMEF Commanding General LtGen
Saddler
and the IMEF SgtMaj, SgtMaj Kent were serving chow. The amazing part was
that they were so enthusiastic about it. Everyone was in a great mood, and
ready to take on anything. It makes you think that if a 3 star general in
the United States Marine Corps can serve turkey to a bunch of 18-20 year
old Lance Corporals, then you can suck up whatever you have to do and stop
complaining. So, as I went to bed, I felt very Thankful and indeed blessed
for a great life. Tomorrow, I am sure will be full of fighting and
disaster, along with the added stress of little sleep and cold days and
even colder nights. But for tonight it's Thanksgiving and everything is okay.

One Motivated LCpl
Jessica




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