Day 26 - Christmas Has Gone, Here We Remain

Now that Christmas has gone here in Iraq, things are sure to go back to how they were pre-holiday. Long work hours, no days off, and more urgent matters requiring urgent attention. What have I learned during my first holiday season away from home? What have I learned during my first holiday season spent in the cold desert known as Iraq?

The first thing would have to be the support of the American people. A nation of millions, split between those who do or do not support the war, all seem to support the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians who serve here. I have received care packages and cards from people I have never once met in my life. These are people who care about the welfare of the troops who sacrifice not only during the holidays but for months at a time. A particular group of care packages that stand out in my mind the most came from a Girl Scout group back in my hometown. I had never interacted with these young girls, never heard a word spoken from them, never seen a smile on their face. But as three boxes were delivered to my office one early December day, it was apparent I would not be completely alone during the holidays. Filled with cards and goodies that would last me for weeks, I knew then there were people back home who really cared. To the girls of Prisco 55 and Better Group, I thank you for the kindness you have shown m this holiday season. Words cannot express how thankful I am to have made contact with you.

Another lesson I’ve learned here is how open the Iraqi population is to American culture. As I ride across camp on one of the several bus lines, American music is sure to be heard as the local drivers nod their head. Each driver has his own taste, be it rock, oldies, R&B, or Hip Hop. If I were ever looking to catch up on newly released tracks, it was sure to be heard on one of the busses throughout the day. The biggest indication of how the Iraqi people have accepted the American presence here – they’ve recently declared Christmas an official holiday. While sitting in the chow hall, it was on every news channel when the official word came down. Just knowing this occurred is a tremendous stride for the men and women who have worked so hard over the past few years. Being here, deployed to Iraq during Christmas as it happened, is a memory that I will have forever.

The final lesson that I’ve experienced time and time again here in Iraq – the importance of family. Yes, family we’ve all left behind in the States play a great role in our lives here. Bu for most, the family I speak of refers to fellow brother- and sisters-in-arms. From the moment our boots touched ground, we only have each other to depend on. Whether we’ve working side by side in an office, patrolling the streets, or sleeping two to a room, we have all become family. Evidence of this can be seen everywhere. When a Soldier needs a spotter in the gym, a Marine is happy to step up and assist. Went a Seaman needs help with a failing computer system, an Airman isn’t far behind with the right tools for the job. On duty and off duty, we have all become a family in this unstable, but improving, country. Nightly activities sponsored by different units promoted friendships, created bonds, and renewed once-broken connections. Here, we have no enemies amongst us. Every one is a friend – a brother or a sister.

Now that Christmas has gone and a year will pass before it arrives again, here we will remain until the fight is done. A slow process burdened with setbacks and challenges. We will stay here until every person comes home. He we remain through the hours of the night, the chill of the winter and the heat of the summer, rain or shine. Staying true to an oath we all took the very first time we raised our right hands, we serve with honor. Likewise, we are honored to have the support of a nation thousands of miles away. We will return home one day, arriving to groups with open arms and open hearts. Until that time comes, we will continue our mission that we have been sent here to do. Until that precious day arrives, here we will remain.