Thursday, November 16, 2006

Rainbow Tooth Brushes: A Lesson on Giving



It is when you give from the heart that you truly give. --Khalil Gibran

I juggled the large, square box on top of a bag of groceries, perched like a dizzy eagle tipping out of the nest of my double stroller. I wore a backpack loaded with groceries, pushing the stroller that carried my three-year old daughter, J. The eagle would face a new obstacle at the corner, where a flimsy plastic bus shelter braced against the bitter cold wind, so notorious in Minnesota. Just when my packages seemed so carefully managed, I would have to fold the stroller (carry it in one hand), carry the bag of groceries in my other hand (not to mention the weight on groceries in my backpack) while rounding up a rambunctious three-year old who was dancing around the bus shelter. The square box rattled in the transition, I was afraid I broke something but anxious to see what was inside. The box was from my dear friend, Karen, who had offered encouragement throughout the time my family was homeless; her letters were a lifeline to hope: what my family could be when we had a home, when we felt safe again.


When I finally got home, the loaf of bread I purchased was flat as a tortilla. J was still dancing, and jumping over the bags of groceries. My whole body ached from the trip, I was sure I had accomplished a work out that would make Richard Simmons proud. Then I noticed the box from Karen again--flat, and square, with a pretty label on the corner. I carried the box to the bedroom, and curled up on my big, gray pillow. J jumped on the bed, the box rattled in her wake, limbs flailing, her body flopping onto the pillow. The gray pillow is a necessity for my illness, Crohn's Disease--I have inflammation in the top of my digestive system, which causes nausea/vomiting and reflux, worse at night. I used the pillow to prop my head up, and lessen the symptoms. When looking at the pillow, I can't shake off the memory of my ex--who is so vicious that he tried to steal the pillow after kicking the children and I out of the house. That he wanted me to suffer, in any way he could think of--even to steal the pillow that offered some measure of comfort from the burning in my chest, the hot as fire stomach contents rising in the night, causing me to wretch and gag. I had to demand that pillow back--while my ex fought me, and yelled that I was "cleaning him out". Some memories are so hard to shake, even now that I have shelter, it seems I have to find shelter within, peace from the memories that haunt me.

J tore at the box, ready to rip it open with her teeth if necessary. I grabbed a scissors from a desk and carefully cut. In a blur, the sides flew open. J was squealing with delight at all the treasures Karen had sent us: toys, stickers, coffee cups, handmade beaded bookmarks, jewelry...and then a pack of tooth brushes. Of all the things, those toothbrushes would leave the strongest impression on me. In the pack Karen sent, were five toothbrushes, a rainbow of colors. I began to cry. J, not understanding what was happening, held up a teddy bear Karen sent and pressed it into my palm.

About a year ago, April 2005, I was doing research for Liberty and Justice and came across the site of Operation AC. One of the articles posted on Operation AC included information about a soldier in Afghanistan who was collecting supplies for an orphanage. I didn't have much money, in fact I had none. My abusive ex controlled all the money in the house, and had me brainwashed to believe we were desperately poor (which was my fault). I know it sounds crazy, but I really believed we were on the brink of financial disaster even while my ex gambled away thousands of dollars in poker rooms, and spent just as much on his cell phone. My ex had a signature poker move--he boasted that he would be famous for it, when he won the World Series of Poker. He would bet heavy on junk cards, on a ridiculous hand just to loose. Losing meant hundreds, even thousands of dollars (he lost his retirement and then the mortgage to gambling). My ex thought that once the players at table believed he was a bad player (he really is and is just in denial thinking otherwise) that when he had a good hand, the players would chase the bet, and loose, thinking his hand was weak. All the players had to do was watch my ex chew on that ratty toothpick in his mouth to know what kind of hand he had--his tell couldn't be more obvious watching him gnaw away, like a demented beaver. The only real poker face my ex had was the one he portrayed to the world, while hiding secrets behind his smile. He made me chase a dream that was not there while he was cashing in on the misery of our broken family.

I vividly recall April 2005 when my son D (my ex would tell him that poker superstar Doyle Brunson began playing poker at age 5, if you could just learn your numbers, you could play too...), my daughter J and I huddled on our bed, on the same gray pillow, looking over a pile of "treasures". I used the last of my money, and what nice things I could find in the house to put together a gift box for Operation AC. D was especially excited to help the other boys and girls, wondering what their school was like and what kind of games they played. He put in toys, even a few favorites, he thought the children would like. J always the organzier, helped pack the items in the box. She really liked to make things look nice, and was so gentle in placing each item in. The last item to go in the box was the tooth brushes. I sent lots of tooth brushes, similar to the package Karen sent me. I dug through the change in the house to get the money to ship the box then drove to the post office. D was so proud to carry the box in by himself, even though he wobbled under the weight. D was full of questions, and I promised to show him the Operation AC site so he could see for himself. J was skipping behind, happy to be part of the festivity. I used the last money I had to send that box--a handful of loose change. When the money was gone, there was a fear of what would come next, how to avoid the yelling and fighting. At the moment those thoughts were far from my mind. I saw an opportunity to help, and I hoped that children who suffered so much would be given a chance to enjoy their childhood, to play and laugh.

When I sent the box to Operation AC, I did it because I care. I never expected anything back. Somehow it seems, when I was in need, I did get something back, from Karen and all those who support me during this difficult time. The rainbow toothbrushes Karen sent brought back the memory of packing the box for Operation AC...and something more...I saw that through the struggles, the fear, the uncertainty one thing is true--you get back what you give. It seems that those who give from the heart, unselfishly and with true compassion for others, don't expect anything in return; the irony is that these people are called to serve exactly those who will later awaken them, the circle of giving continues until each person is uplifted.

Lynn F, November 2006


Links:

Operation AC - HOME

Afghan Orphanage, Col. Gebelein has supported in Afghanistan: http://operationac.com/images/ophanage/slides/DROP-2.html

National Domestic Violence Hotline:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) - Break the silence, make the call.

Aardvarc: An Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence Aid and Resource Collection
AARDVARC.org - An Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence Aid and Resource Collection

_______

Ayanye: Karen and Bobby, J and D

From Occupation to Coexistance: Success of a British Battalion in Maysan


November 13, 2006: A British battalion, led by Lt. Col. David Labouchere has made significant progress in cutting the amount of illegal weapons being smuggled into the Maysan province of Iraq. Lt. Labouchere's methods are rather uncoventional: closing a large base at the former Abu Naji prison and resorting to low-tech resources in an effort to wage the battle using the tactics common to the local tribespeople. Forming alliances with tribespeople plays a crucial role in the success of Lt. Labouchere's battalion,"That decision to close Abu Naji was the centerpiece of a strategic shift from 'occupation' to 'coexistence' that earned Labouchere and his troops credibility and cooperation among local tribes in the battle to stabilize the region..." (DTI/PR Newswire, November 13, 2006). Lt. Laboucher's strategy is to implement military operations using two lightly armormed squadrons and one central command section. The squadrons are resupplied by air, and without a base remain more flexible to conduct missions while forming relationships among the tribespeople of the Maysan.

For more Information: PR Newswire Europe via COMTEX News Network

DTI Exclusive: In Iraq, British Battle Group Finds Success In High-Mobility, Low-Tech Operations, DTI Magazine Reports

http://www.quote.com/qc/news/story.aspx?story=200611140143_PRN_85643998&symbols=INDUSTRY:908

Saturday, November 11, 2006

Building Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan: A Link

The House Armed Service Committee has an online website "Building Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan" that reports good news, and positive accomplishments from the front line. The site is frequently update so be sure to check back often.

You can visit the site at: http://www.house.gov/hasc/GoodNews/index.html

Some of what you wil find includes information on humanitarian efforts, rebuilding infastructure, training Iraqi security forces and much more...


Friday, November 10, 2006

Patriot Petition- Support America's Armed Forces

148754 people have signed this petition in support of America's armed forces sponsored by the Patriot Post. Lets keep that number growing :)

http://patriotpetitions.us/

"The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave." --Patrick Henry.

Republics win wars. Thus is the verdict of history, and this truth has not been lost on America's Armed Forces. In the current war against Islamist terrorism, they have been called upon to defend our democratic republic and to promote its virtues in an ideological struggle against those who would destroy it. As Thomas Jefferson once said, "Although a republican government is slow to move, yet when once in motion, its momentum becomes irresistible." Jefferson spoke truly, as evidenced in the actions of our nation's military in the years following the deliberate attack on our countrymen on September 11, 2001. Since that time, U.S. forces have been called upon to wage war against Islamist terrorism in every corner of the globe: Afghanistan, Iraq, the Philippines, sub-Saharan Africa and other places around the world.
The Bush Doctrine of preemptive action, possibly the most singularly significant addition to American foreign policy since the Truman Doctrine of the Cold War, has resulted in a deployment of the U.S. Armed Forces unparalleled in some 40 years as our nation combats the threat of global terrorism. This global deployment is preemptive and defensive, not the result of imperialistic ambitions. For instance, the GDP of Iraq is $22 billion, while U.S. costs in the liberation of Iraq have already soared above $200 billion. Such is the price of liberty, not oil.
Regrettably, the conflict with Iraq could not be resolved diplomatically and our war with Islamist militants cannot be won by responding to terrorist aggression after the fact -- the enemy can only be defeated in decisive preemptive strikes. America's Armed Forces echo the words of John Paul Jones: "An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to have the most active part in it."


Diplomacy without the threat of force is a paper tiger, and the American military bolsters the United States' ability (to flip-flop von Clausewitz's famous dictum) to wage war by diplomatic means. The fruits of the Bush Doctrine and its credible threat of force can already be seen: Nascent democratic reform in Saudi Arabia, Libya opening its doors to international weapons inspectors, and North Korea backing away from its blackmail rhetoric and insistence on a unilateral agreement with the U.S., to name but a few.
In our global war against Islamist terrorism, rogue regimes, and weapons of mass destruction, the massive warfront in Iraq has taken center stage. Though derided by many as a "quagmire" and "the next Vietnam," American and coalition successes in the liberation of Iraq speak to the contrary. Since President Bush declared an end to major combat on May 1... The first battalion of the new Iraqi Army has graduated and is on active duty. ...Over 60,000 Iraqis now provide security to their fellow citizens. ...Nearly all of Iraq's 400 courts are functioning. ...The Iraqi judiciary is fully independent. ...The central bank is fully independent. ...As of October 6 power generation hit 4,518 megawatts -- exceeding the prewar average. ...All 22 universities and 43 technical institutes and colleges are open, as are nearly all primary and secondary schools. ...Teachers earn from 12 to 25 times their former salaries. ...All 240 hospitals and more than 1200 clinics are open. ...The Coalition has helped administer over 22 million vaccinations to Iraq's children. ...A Coalition program has cleared over 14,000 kilometers of Iraq's 27,000 kilometers of weed-choked canals which now irrigate tens of thousands of farms. This project has created jobs for more than 100,000 Iraqi men and women. ...Iraq has one of the world's most growth-oriented investment and banking laws. ...Iraq has a single, unified currency for the first time in 15 years. ...There are more than 170 newspapers. ...A nation that had not one single element -- legislative, judicial or executive -- of a representative government, now does. ...In Baghdad alone residents have selected 88 advisory councils. Baghdad's first democratic transfer of power in 35 years happened when the city council elected its new chairman. ...25 ministers, selected by the most representative governing body in Iraq's history, run the day-to-day business of government. ...The Iraqi government regularly participates in international events. Since July the Iraqi government has been represented in over two dozen international meetings, including those of the UN General Assembly, the Arab League, the World Bank and IMF and, today, the Islamist Conference Summit. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today announced that it is reopening over 30 Iraqi embassies around the world. ...The Coalition has completed over 13,000 reconstruction projects, large and small, as part of a strategic plan for the reconstruction of Iraq. ...Children and political opponents aren't imprisoned, tortured, executed, maimed, or are forced to watch their families die for disagreeing with Saddam or the government. ...Saddam is gone. ...Iraq is free.

The impact of Iraq's liberation is already being felt elsewhere in the region: The Saudis will hold municipal elections. ...Qatar is reforming education to give more choices to parents. ...Jordan is accelerating market economic reforms. ...The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded for the first time to an Iranian -- a Muslim woman who speaks out with courage for human rights, for democracy and for peace.
The war against terror is a truly global war, and America's Armed Forces have demonstrated that they can win both that war and the peace.


But as Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld recently noted, "As we appreciate the achievement of the men and women in uniform, it's important not to lose sight of a fundamental fact; namely, that the global war on terror continues. The capture of Saddam Hussein is important, but the war on terror is not about one man and it is not about one country. ... Many of those are people who are serving in our armed forces were far from home during Christmas, and certainly they and their families are in our thoughts and prayers."
When we examine the events of the world today, the words of George Washington's First Inaugural Address ring strangely true: "The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican model of government, are justly considered deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people." And now the preservation of that sacred fire is passed on to Iraqis, Afghanis, and others, thanks to our Armed Forces' faithful defense of the Republic.

America's Armed Forces have had no small part in these events, and for this we offer our humble gratitude.

Sign This Petition.

Monday, November 06, 2006

Justice in Baghdad: Saddam Sentanced to Death

Saddam Hussein has been found guilty of committing crimes against humanity, and has been sentanced to death by hanging for masterminding the 1982 Dujail massacre, murdering 148 Shiites. He will also face charges of committing atrocities during Operation Anfal, the 1987-1988 campaign of genocide against the Kurds that killed an estimated 180,000 in another trial. Also sentanced to death by hanging are Saddam's half brother, Barzan Ibrahim, former chief of intelligence and Awad Hamed al-Bandar, head of the former Revolutionary Court, for their role in the Dujail massacre. The death sentance will go to an appeals panel, consisting of nine judges, who have an unlimited amount of time to review the case. If the sentance is upheld, Saddam must be executed within 30 days. Saddam's lawyers plan an appeal on the Dujail conviction; he remains unrepentant.

Reaction to Saddam's death sentance has been a mixture of celebration and protest.

Let's consider those supporting Saddam:


1) Saddam has used innocent people as "human shields" in his battle for jihad against the West (Saddam openly declared jihad against the US, Britain, Israel, NATO and all Allies and also referred to the war he waged against us as "The Mother of All Battles"). Saddam has built military installments in residential neighborhoods, with the purpose of using civilians as "shields" to prevent attacks--or to gain sympathy when innocent people are killed in attacks against his own military installments. He has also used children as soldiers, and tied unarmed people in front of tanks.
Saddam's recent attempts to incite bloodshed in Iraq, and fuel attacks against Coalition troops and the new Iraqi government are employing the same tactics, using the Iraqi people as "human shields" and using Iraq as a battleground, to further his own agenda. Saddam has no regard for human life, he is a dictator without conscience.

2) Considering the extensive propaganda, intimidation tactics (including torture), and media censorship Saddam imposed during his regime some support of Saddam is hardly surprising. I do question what percentage of the "supporters" truly support Saddam and his cause, and those who are suffering from the horrors of his regime--or are afraid to show resistance to Saddam. I am putting forth the theory that some of the Saddam sympathizers are suffering from psychological problems and the effects of torture and extensive abuse suffered over long periods of time.

3) There are still terrorist cells operating within Iraq; who have been trained extensively on how to manipulate the media to their cause, and also on how to deliver brutal attacks against the opposition--Coalition Troops and Iraqi forces. Some of the attacks are fueled by those people who do support Saddam, and wish to see him in power again.

However, many Iraqis celebrated the verdict of Saddam's death sentance and took to the streets. In Dujail, people cheered and burned pictures of Saddam. Iraqi government-backed Al-Iraqiya TV broadcast footage of people celebrating the verdict and played a song called "Iraq Today" which calls for Saddam's execution. In Baghdad, and throughout many parts of Iraq, curfew has been called, and security remains on high alert in response to the verdict.

The trial of Saddam is a great accomplishment for the people of Iraqi, whose resolve and courage to fight for their own freedom has empowered them to not only build a system for justice in the face of great tyranny, but also laid the foundation for freedom to continue to grow.


Thoughts on the Verdict:

" The justice handed out to him is a response to the call from thousands of sons and sisters of those sentenced and executed by Saddam... Maybe this will help alleviate the pain of the widows and the orphans and those who have been ordered to bury their loved ones in secrecy, and those who have been forced to suppress their feelings and suffering, and those who have paid at the hands of torturers, and those who have been deprived of the basic human rights, like education and profession.", Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Maliki (BBC, Nov. 5, 2006)



"Iraq has a lot of work ahead as it builds its society that delivers equal justice and protects all its citizens. Yet history will record today's judgment as an important achievement on the path to a free and just and unified society. The United States is proud to stand with the Iraqi people. We will continue to support Iraq's unity government as it works to bring peace to its great country..." President Bush (World Net Daily, Nov. 5, 2006)



"For a nation to have persevered with a transparent fair trial with a man like this, through all the difficulties in his passing, that to me is a nation that wants to embrace democracy and isn't that something that is worth supporting " Prime Minister, John Howard, Australia (ABC Newsonline 11/6/06. Hundreds of Iraqi Australians celebrated in the streets of Sydney when the verdict was read).




Sources:


WorldNetDaily: Bush cheers Saddam's conviction
http://worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=52786



Howard hails Saddam verdict. 06/11/2006. ABC News Online
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200611/s1781650.htm



BBC NEWS In Pictures In pictures: Iraq's reaction
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/6118542.stm

BBC NEWS Middle East Media broadcast scenes of jubilation
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6118170.stm

BBC NEWS Middle East Timeline: Saddam Hussein Dujail trial http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4507568.stm



Putting Noncombatants at Risk: Saddam's Use of "Human Shields" https://www.cia.gov/cia/reports/iraq_human_shields/index.html

BBC NEWS Middle East Saddam sentence: Reaction in quotes
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6118298.stm

Saddam sentenced to death - Conflict in Iraq - MSNBC.com
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15567363/


'Saddam signed 148 death warrants' - World - Times Online
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,7374-2062188,00.html


Saddam trial hears of mass killings - Conflict in Iraq - MSNBC.com
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15285264/
“The desert was full of mounds that had people buried underneath.” -Anwar, a detainee quoted in this article.



Scotsman.com News - Iraq - Soldier used as human shield for Saddam goes back to the desert
http://in.today.reuters.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=worldNews&storyID=2006-11-04T230900Z_01_NOOTR_RTRJONC_0_India-274971-1.xml
Torture and death: The crimes and trial of Saddam - 06 Nov 2006 - World News http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=2&ObjectID=10409346




The Widows of Dujail by John Moore- The Digital Journalist
http://digitaljournalist.org/issue0512/dis_moore.html

Saturday, November 04, 2006

Link: Lets Say THANKS!

http://www.letssaythanks.com/Home1024.html

Let's Say Thanks is an opportunity to send a personal note of thanks to our troops serving overseas, "To honor U.S. military personnel and increase community morale, Xerox Corporation has created Let's Say Thanks, a national program designed to deliver millions of cards to servicemen and women overseas with messages of support from home."

When you visit Let's Say Thanks, you scroll through the gallery of card designs to pick out a card for the troops. You can also submit a design of a card to Xerox. You can add your own message to the cards, or use a preselected message. Xerox will print the card and send it to a soldier--for free. There is also a link on the site to pass the word on, and send a link to Let's Say Thanks to your friends and family.

What a wonderful way to honor our brave soldiers, and let them know we care; Lets Say Thanks today.


For Thought:

"Life has meaning only in the struggles
Triumph or defeat is in the hands of the Gods
So let us celebrate the struggles."
~ Swahili Warrior Song

Sunday, October 22, 2006

Iftar October 2006: Breaking Bread Together

What is Iftar?

Iftar is an evening meal that breaks the daily fast during the month of Ramadan. Often, iftar dinners often are celebrated between Muslims and non-Muslims.


Afghanistan: Task Force Warrior Leaders Celebrates Iftar with Local Allies


On October 17, 2006, Key Task Force Warrior leaders celebrated an iftar dinner with Gelan District civil officials and police officials from the Ghazni Province in Afghanistan. They shared a traditional Muslim meal that included rice, mutton. eggplant, and pan bread. They also shared close conversation, including discussion on the purpose of Ramadan. Army Maj. Rafael Paredes, in attendance, has commented that, "We organized it because we wanted to share something with the people we're closest to. We want them to realize we're trying to understand their religion and culture; not change it. We also want to encourage our leaders and Soldiers to understand the people we're here to help."
To see photos visit:
Fort Drum News Release / Media Advisory
http://www.drum.army.mil/sites/installation/pao/news/photos.asp?id=2006/0610-35

Source: Fort Drum Public Affairs Office - Daily News http://www.drum.army.mil/sites/installation/pao/news/dailyNews.asp?id=2006/0610-35


State Department Honors Muslim Women on Iftaar

On October 18, 2006 the State Department hosted an iftar dinner in Washington to honor the contributions Muslim women have made to history. The dinner corresponded with Laylat al Qadr (meaning "Night of Decree" or "Night or Measures"), is the holiest night of Ramadan marking two important revelations, the first in which Muhammed received the first verses of the Koran the second revelation when Muhammed received the Koran in its entirety.
Remarks were made by both Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, R. Nicholas Burns and by Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Karen Hughes.

Under Secretary Burns spoke about the importance of tolerance and peace, "We thank the Muslim community in our country for teaching us about the great religion of Islam. We still have much to learn. But it is true that some of the most powerful thinkers in the past century: Mahatma Gandhi; Martin Luther King Jr.; the Agha Khan; the Dali Lama, very different people but they shared one critical trait in common. Their actions were strongly rooted in their own religious beliefs, but they learned and grew from the teachings of other religions and may it be so in our own country. It's learning about each other and standing up for each other, by being voices of tolerance and understanding, it's then that we'll overcome the challenges of extremism and of those who seek to distort and exploit religion, any religion, for their own particular design. We don't believe the extremists will succeed, because we know that there is nothing irreconcilable between Islam and America. We know that as we sit together tonight from our different backgrounds we share a common faith and that faith is in the future. And the future must be built on tolerance and on peace." (Remarks at The Annual State Department Iftaar Dinner).

Under Secretary Hughes acknowledged the examples of leadership Muslim women have set, past and present including Khadija, the Prophet Muhammad's wife, a successful businesswoman, and using examples from modern Muslim women who working hard to make a tremendous difference in our world. Under Secretary Hughes also encouraged people to volunteer for the "new citizen dialogue program" where Muslim Americans reach out to Islamic communities across the world.


Sources:

Remarks at The Annual State Department Iftaar Dinner

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/74762.htm

State Department Iftar Honors Women Throughout Muslim History
http://usinfo.state.gov/xarchives/display.html?p=washfile-english&y=2006&m=October&x=20061019153430ndyblehs0.475857

Update-Lynn



Hello Friends,

I apologize that it has been so long since my last post. Please know my dedication to the brave troops of the US, the Coalition, Iraqi and Afghan forces and our Allies defending peace, freedom, and justice has not wavered. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you, and to your families, your friends.

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I have not been able to post on this page for awhile. I have fled my home due to domestic violence, and been homeless with two small children for six months. I am praying things will get better, and thankfully have found shelter. I will continue to update this page as I am able.

Blessings, Lynn F.
For More on my Story: inourhearts.blogspot.com


"Hold on to what is good
Even if it is a handful of earth
Hold on to what you believe
Even if it is a tree that stands by itself
Hold on to what you must do
Even if it is a long way from here
Hold on to life
Even if it is easier to let go
Hold on to my hand
Even if I have gone away from you
."
~ Pueblo Blessing

Monday, May 15, 2006

Rebuilding Iraq- A Review of DefendAmerica News

Defend America is a good source of news, links, personal stories, pictures and ways you can help fight the War On Terrorism. DefendAmerica was established by the US Department of Defense to offer news about the War on Terrorism. The website is pretty comprehensive, and worth a visit. For this article, I will review the Iraqi Reconstruction page on DefendAmerica News.

The Iraqi Reconstruction page covers news from March 2004-May 2006. It is divided into two categories: Rebuilding Iraq and Iraqis Take the Lead. There is also a link to resources. The page is easy to navigate--the stories are listed up front, with a separate link for each story. The headers are divided by month and year. Just a quick scroll down the page shows the tremendous amount of work Coalition troops and Iraqi allies have put into rebuilding Iraq, and their successes in creating a more stable, peaceful Iraq. Many of the stories are reported from actual soldiers so you get an up close, and very personal view with information from the front.

There is alot to read on this page but I am posting links to a few stories so you get a general idea of what you will find here:



Marine Corps News -> Iraqi soldiers keep criminals out of former smuggler’s town
Submitted By: 1st Marine Division

May 11, 2006: Ar Rutbah is an Iraqi city settled amidst the desert of the Al Anbar province. Ar Rutbah has always been known as a "smuggler's city" overrun with crime, and used as a base by insurgents. Ar Rutbah is building a new reputation thanks to the joint efforts of the Coalition and Iraqi soldiers who are working hard to stabilize Ar Ruthbah with increased patrols, security check points, and citizen cooperation to combat crime. For the first time in years, the citizens of Ar Rutbah feel real progress has been made in combating smuggling and making the city safer. Also includes stories of other positive achievements by Iraqi soldiers.



April 13, 2006, Submitted by: 1st Marine Division; story by Cpl. Antonio Rosas.
Marine Corps News -> Iraqi soldier proud to patrol 'mean streets' from childhood

This story is about an Iraqi man named "Hadi" (an alias) who was forced to become a soldier for Saddam's regime, while still a child. Hadi has turned his painful childhood into a positive purpose--he is now working alongside Coalition troops in his hometown of Sad'ah to watch for insurgent activity. This article also discusses ways in which the Iraqi Army is gaining the confidence and respect of the Iraqi people.



January 30, 2005. Submitted by: Entisaar, Gulf Region Southern District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

http://www.grd.usace.army.mil/news/releases/recon013005.html

In Basra, Iraq a seminar was held for Iraqi businesswomen, The seminar was hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Gulf Region South (GRS), the Project and Contracting Office (PCO), and Parsons, Inc. The seminar included resources for Iraqi businesswomen to network with other businesses including contracts with US companies, included information on how to successfully manage a business, and included discussions about security concerns.



http://www.defendamerica.mil/articles/may2004/a051104b.html
Italians Renovate School Near An Nasiriyah

May 11, 2004: The 6th Italian Airforce rebuilt a school in Al Zahiira, a village with a population of about 3,000. The school includes a roof so classes can be held during inclement weather, eight classrooms, a playground and modern conveinances. The villagers of Al Zahira were very thankful for the school, and the opportunity it presents for their children. After an opening ceremony for the school was conducted, the 6th Italian Air Force donated humanitarian goods to the villagers that included school supplies, clothing, and food. The humanitarian goods donated to Al Zahiira were gathered from a civillian effort in the Italian city of Catania then transported to Iraq by an Italian military flight. In addition, the 11th Brigade Italian special infantry donated 300 school bags to the children. Other Italian relief efforts continued in the Dhi Gar province throughout May 2004.


Again--the Rebuilding Iraq page offers much more than I cover here. I encourage you to take a look, and to take a minute to thank the US, Coalition and Iraqi soldiers ()-:)

Short Update from Lynn

Hello Friends-

I am sorry I have not update this page in some time. Believe me, it is not by choice. Some very tough issues have faced my family recently and I regret that I have not been able to continue the work on this page as often as I would have liked. I will do my best to continue to report stories. I appreciate your understanding.

Blessings~ Lynn


A Poem I Wrote (Doesn't Have a Name Yet):

I never have to fear because
I am cradled in Your hands
Your voice is firm
yet I hear the softest whisper--
You are my creation, I adore you
Cradled in Your hands,
just as I was on the day of my creation
the smallest spark of life
protected, loved.

I never have to be alone
Your arm is draped over my shoulder
We walk side by side
Sharing an exciting journey called life
There is no time past, present, or future
that is the wrong time
every aspect of the Universe is
a manifestation of Your love, Your power
wonderfully made.

In the midst of sorrow, crisis
I only need to climb
into Your great, big hands
to be safe
When I am strong enough
to walk on my own
my shadow will be lighted by Your presence
For You are my Lord,
there has never been a day that we have been apart.


Lynn Mari, ©2006

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

High School Reopens in Pachir wa Agam


March: 2006: In rural Afghanistan, hundreds of people gather outside a handsome stone school with red and white painted windows. On March 25, 2006 the people of the Pachir wa Agam District in celebrated the renovation and re-opening of the Agam High School. Coalition Forces funded the project, which cost $25,000, " The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, which since has departed Afghanistan, funded the project with Commander’s Emergency Response Program funds. The regiment’s successor, the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, supervised the work, which included a new well." (Capt. Dan Huvane, Task Force Lava Public Affairs). Marine Capt. Bart Battista, commander of B Company, of the 1/3 Marines reminded officials that further improvements in the region will depend on the security situation-- and that when Pachir wa Agam is more stable, other organizations will come to help. He added that the children are the future of Pachir wa Agam, and with hard work they will be the future leaders of the district.

Mohammed Sadiq, the headmaster of Agam High School, is very thankful and gave a moving speech (through an interpreter), "Today, I am happy to see so many children at this school from this mountain area. This is the witness that we can show to the people of this district and the world, that Americans are not here to destroy, as the enemies of Afghanistan say. They have come from many places far away, and they give their funds to help us. We want our children to be like other countries’ children, with chairs to sit on, books to read, and a roof over their heads. With your help and cooperation, the children of Afghanistan can be more like them. " (Capt. Dan Huvane, Task Force Lava Public Affairs).



Links:

Afghanistan: Nangarhar Provincial Government


(Information on Afghanistan including: Culture, Islam, Geography,
Afghan Women and Much More...)

Afghanistan Online


2005:Good News from Afghanistan, Wall Street Journal. By Arthur Chrenkoff.
OpinionJournal - Extra
http://www.opinionjournal.com/extra/?id=110006137


(Includes Photos) By Marine Capt. Dan Huvane, Task Force Lava Public Affairs.
High school reopens in Nangarhar Province

2006: Troops Improve Life in Mollai

March 2006: Mollai is a cluster of six rural villages in the mountains of Afghanistan, with a population of 4,000 inhabitants. Mollai is self-sustaining but life is simple--there is no indoor plumbing or electricity, water sources come from mountain streams, and huts are made of mud. Coalition Troops have joined with Mollai villagers to improve life by building schools (including a girl's school), irrigation systems and other structures. The economy in Mollai has improved, in part because soldiers are contracting the villagers of Mollai to assist in the building.

In addition, donations from soldiers and from American charities and churches have provided clothing, shoes, toys, food and school supplies to the people of Mollai. The soldiers treat the people of Mollai as equals by observing a custom which creates respect in the process of distribution. The items are first given to village elders; who then have the authority to hand them out. Elders speak on behalf of the villagers, and see that their concerns are met. Village elders have also voiced concerns that the girl's school would not be large enough to accomodate the needs of Mollai. In response, the building of the school has been expanded.

The future is certainly bright in Mollai :)




Links:

(Very informative and interesting site. Some of what you will find here includes: Learning Dari and Pashto for Children, Afghan News, Dari Poetry, Photography and much more...)
Afghan Network iNteractive


Civil Affairs Mission Helps Afghan Villagers
Civil Affairs Mission Helps Afghan Villagers - DefendAmerica News Article



The Cool Blue Blog: Helping Afghanistan



DefendAmerica News - Afghanistan Update



Military Photos
http://www.centcom.mil/sites/uscentcom1/ArchivePhotos/Forms/backpage.aspx?RootFolder=



March 1, 2006 President Thanks U.S. and Coalition Troops in Afghanistan Clam Shell Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan
President Thanks U.S. and Coalition Troops in Afghanistan


March 1, 2006: Bush makes surprise stopover in Kabul.
http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/national/2006/03/01/afghan-bush.html


U.S. Troops Improve Quality of Life for Afghan Villagers
Third Army/ARCENT/CFLCC - News Story

Chemical Weapons Found in Iraq- Links and Resources

Note: This article is a compilation of sources from 2003-2005. The reason why I am including older articles is to show the greater picture of weapons found in Iraq--and to demonstrate how large Saddam's weapons program was. These articles speak for themselves. I will continue to gather information; however there is much more information (including classified documents and documents waiting to be translated) than presented here. My purpose in creating this compilation is that I believe to understand the nature of Saddam's weapons programs and what Saddam was attempting to accomplish in stockpiling weapons, you need to examine the discovery of weapons and related materials over a span of time, to see a more complete picture of the findings. These articles also demonstrate the complex, and dangerous work of US and Coalition forces working Iraq.


" Understanding the threats of our time, knowing the designs and deceptions of the Iraqi regime, we have every reason to assume the worst, and we have an urgent duty to prevent the worst from occurring...We did not ask for this present challenge, but we accept it. Like other generations of Americans, we will meet the responsibility of defending human liberty against violence and aggression. By our resolve, we will give strength to others. By our courage, we will give hope to others. And by our actions, we will secure the peace, and lead the world to a better day.", President Bush, Cincinatti, Ohio. 10/7/2002.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/10/20021007-8.html


The Links and Resources:


101st soldiers find chemical compound in Iraqhttp://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/news/iraq/2003/iraq-030407-army-101stchemfind.htm
2003- Iraqi Civilians Lead Soldiers to Chemical Compound Near Karbala


Chemical munitions found by Polish soldiers were being pursued by terrorists http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/news/archive/2004/07/02/international1018EDT0516.DTL
July 2004: Polish troops were looking for munitions in Iraq when an informant gave the troops a tip that terrorists were trying to obtain chemical weapons leftover from the Iran-Iraq War. Polish troops purchased the chemical weapons in a covert operation, obtaining 17 rocketsand two mortar rounds that contained a nerve agent...


CIA can't rule out WMD move to Syria - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - April 27, 2005http://washingtontimes.com/national/20050427-121915-1667r.htm
April 2005: The CIA's chief weapons inspector said there is credible evidence to suggest that WMD in Iraq may have been moved into Syria. Inspector Charles Duelfer, who heads the Iraq Survey Group also agrees that it is a possibility that WMD had been moved into Syria from Iraq, citing intelligence gained from a Syrian security officer and information the Survey Group has researched about material being moved out of Iraq (he didn't elaborate due to security reasons). However, Duelfer says there is enough evidence to merit an investigation...

CNN.com - UK: Chemical suits found in Iraq - Mar. 27, http://edition.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/meast/03/27/sprj.irq.iraq.chemical.suits/
March 2003: After Iraqi soldiers abandoned a headquaters building among an oil field in Southern Iraq, British troops began to investigate. Inside the building, the troops found equiptment, paperwork and, chemical weapons protection suits and respirators...


Chemical Weapons Found in Iraq http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2005/8/13/224902.shtml
August 2005-US troops raided a warehouse in Mosul that was discovered to be a chemical weapons factory containing 1,500 gallons of chemicals. The factory was found after US authorities interrogated detainees then acted on the tips. Evidence suggests that insurgents are trying to manufacture chemical weapons...

Evidence found of plan to use chemical weapons: UK - War on Iraq - smh.com.au http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/03/28/1048653842137.html
March 2003: British Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon believes Saddam Hussein was prepared to use chemical or biological weapons. Hoon came to this conclusion after a discovery this week that 100 chemical weapons suits had been given to Iraqi soldiers stationed at a Rumaila oil field. Hoon also implied that paperwork found in an Iraqi oil field in southern Iraq was also very significant. In addition, US Marines found 3,000 chemical-weapons suits at a hospital in Nasiriyah..

BreakingNews.ie: Fallujah chemical weapons lab foundhttp://www.breakingnews.ie/2004/11/25/story177564.html
November 2004: A chemical weapons laboratory was found in Fallujah which included instructions on how to make bombs and how to make poisons (including anthrax)...

General Says 2nd Mobile Bioweapons Lab Found in Iraqhttp://www.iraqfoundation.org/news/2003/emay/14_mobile.html
May 2003: A trailer found in Mosul is believed to be a mobile lab capable of producing biological agents. The trailer is believed to be newly created. The Pentagon has concluded that a similiar lab, found last month, is indeed a mobile biological weapons lab.

Iraq's Chemical Weapon Programhttp://www.iraqwatch.org/profiles/chemical.htmlAn informative site with alot of history & background information

Iraqi Nerve Gas, WMD Find Blows Away Pundits http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2004/5/17/170427.shtml
May 2004: Two shells armed with nerve gas were found in Baghdad by US troops--one contained nerve gas, the other contained mustard gas. This article also discusses Saddam's alliance with al Qaeda; in 1998 a meeting took place in Baghdad where Saddam's top nerve gas experts met with al Qaeda members. Saddam has a history of using posion gasses in planning and executing terrorist attacks. This article also discusses manipulation and deceit by Saddam to conceal his weapons programs from UN inspectors, even going so far as an attempted assination on UN inspectors. Finally, this article discusses Russia and France's role in Iraq's chemical weapons program--namely that weapons and gas came from equiptment made by those two countries. And whatever happened to Saddam's missing WMD? Evidence seems to suggest that they were smuggled into Syria...

NewsMax.com: Inside Cover Story Iraq Survey Chief: More WMD Found
http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2004/6/25/114037.shtml
June 2004: Charles Duelfer, the head of the US team searching for WMD in Iraq declares that they are finding new evidence of WMD "almost every day". In June, 10 artillery shells filled with prohibited chemical weapons were found. Last month, the Pentagon confirmed that two artillery shells found did contain sarin and mustard gas. Duefler claims that despite the age of the shells, they are still very dangerous and capable of killing "dozens of people"...

JS Online: Marines find chemical suits, nerve gas antidote in raidhttp://www.jsonline.com/news/gen/mar03/129834.asp
March 2003: After raiding buildings in Nasiriyah, US Marines discovered more than 300 chemical suits, antedotes to nerve gas, 300 gas masks, ammunition, chemical decontamination devices and chemical decontamination vehicles. A few days earlier, British troops found a stash, near Basra, of training equipment used for nuclear, biological and chemical warfare. British troops also found evidence that Iraqi soldiers were using sarin in simulated tests. In northeastern Iraq, US troops searching a terrorist compound found traces of a biological toxin--traces of the same toxin were later found in London..

.Major Sites Associated With Iraq's Past WMD Programs http://www.fas.org/news/un/iraq/s/971203_sites.htmWorldNetDaily: Mobile bio-weapons labfound by U.S. Marines? http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=31989
April 2003: US Marines approached a truck parked at a construction site, then the vehicle sped off and refused orders to stop. Marines then fired upon the truck, and gained control of it. On the outside the truck looks like a refridgeration truck, on the inside is a suspected biological or chemical weapons mobile lab concealed by a false wall. Also found at the site were anti-aircraft guns, a missile and a stockpile of weapons and ammunition...

New Documents Reveal Saddam Hid WMD, Was Tied to Al Qaida
http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2005/11/16/122915.shtml
November 2005: Recently discovered Iraqi documents, now translated by US intelligence, reveal that Saddam had extensive plans to hide WMD that were in Iraq before the 2003 invasion. Documents also show that Saddam was allied with al Qiada before the 9/11 attacks. The Iraq Survey Group that is searching for weapons in Iraq has found "millions of pages of documents". Some of what the documents reveal include that Saddam purchased chemical agents, that Saddam was developing ricin, that Saddam was hiding his activities from the UN inspection teams, that Saddam was financially supporting al Qaida...

Defense Tech: NERVE GAS FOUND IN IRAQhttp://www.defensetech.org/archives/000915.html
May 2004: An artillery shell containing sarin nerve gas from Saddam's stockpile was found by insurgent thugs and used to create a roadside booby trap in Baghdad. US troops intercepted the device before anyone was hurt. The bomb squad safely detonated the shell...

Positive test for terror toxins in Iraqhttp://osborn-scientific.com/PDF/Positive_test_for_terror_toxins_in_Iraq.htm
Sargat, a terrorist training camp near the Iran-Iraq border is home to the radical Islamic militant group Ansar al-Islam, which is closely allied with al Qaida. US Special Forces targeted Sargat, an the al Qaida fighters who took refuge in Northern Iraq and were able to gain access to the Sargat camp. Experts believe the group was using simple, everyday substances to create toxic poisons that could be used as weapons. MSNBC conducted tests from samples they have obtained from Sargat and found traces of ricin and botulism. Also found were chemical recipe cards. US Special Forces have found recipes for ricin and other toxins in camps in Northern Iraq.

.President Bush Outlines Iraqi Threat http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/10/20021007-8.htmlRussia Moved Iraqi WMDhttp://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2005/3/2/230625.shtml
March 2005: John Shaw, a former top Bush administration official has come forward with information that Russia helped move WMD from Iraq into Syria. Shaw's claims are based on contacts who have gained inside information, and his claims match US satellite photos that show extensive large-vehicle traffic crossing to and from the Iraq-Syria border before the US invasion of Iraq. A wide variety of sources uphold Shaw's claims--all discusses thoroughly within in this article. Russia is known to have supplied Iraq with toxic materials such a botulism, anthrax and smallpox...

Saddam Hussein's Defiance of U.N. Resolutions : Fact Sheet http://www.usembassy.lv/EN/Iraq/defiance

Exclusive: Saddam Possessed WMD, Had Extensive Terror Ties -- 10/04/2004 http://www.cnsnews.com/ViewSpecialReports.asp?Page=%5CSpecialReports%5Carchive%5C200410%5CSPE20041004a.html
Octover 2004: Iraqi intelligence documents, confisticated by US forces has been obtained by CNS News. 42 pages of those documents are posted online. Some of what the documents reveal incude: Saddam possessed gas masks and chemical suits, Saddam possessed poison gas that then is unaccounted for in his own records, Sadam allied with al Qaeda and other terrorist groups, terrorist training camps operated in Iraq. One haunting memo gives the directive to "hunt Americans". These documents have been throughly studied by experts, and as of yet have not been proven to be false..

Salman Pak - Iraq Special Weapons Facilities http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/world/iraq/salman_pak.htm
Former Iraqi military officers have come forward with information about a secret terrorist training camp in Iraq called Salman Pak. Both Iraqis and non-Iraqis were trained to highjack planes and trains, plant explosives, sabotage, and commit assinations. Salman Pak was also a biological watfare research and storage facility. Research on Anthrax, Botulinum toxin, Clostridium, perfringens (gas gangrene), mycotoxins, aflatoxins, and Ricin was conducted at Salman Pak. Equiptment moving trucks and refridgerated trucks were also observed at Salman Pak previous to the 2003 invasion, suggesting agents were being either moved or hidden elsewhere....

Link About the Discovery of Salman Pak: theage.com.au -
http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/04/07/1049567590455.html
April 2003: Captured fighters from Sudan, Egypt and Iraq lead US forces to Salman Pak..

.Secret bunkers held chemical weapons, says Iraqi exile - Iraq - www.theage.com.au http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2004/03/31/1080544556813.html?from=storyrhs
April 2004: A scientist who worked under Saddam's regime claims there are five secret storage bunkers around Baghdad, Basra and Tikrit which held chemical weapons. The bunkers are composed of multiple levels and are reinforced with concrete, Saddam has gone to great lengths to conceal these bunkers. In 1998, the scientist was convicted of plotting to remove Saddam from power, and sentanced to death. He escaped from Iraq and now lives in hiding in Australia...

Special forces find underground weapons base - War on Iraq - smh.com.auhttp://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/04/18/1050172758068.html
April 2003:The Australian Defence Force says its special forces in Iraq have found more than 50 Soviet-made fighter jets, a chemical-proof bunker and a vast store of anti-aircraft guns and munitions at an Iraqi base west of Baghdad..

Telegraph News Troops find 'chemical weapons' near Basra http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2004/01/11/wirq11.xml&sSheet=/news/2004/01/11/ixnewstop.html
November 2004: Danish troops found 36 Russian-made bombs in a base near Basra, most were wrapped in plastic bags and were leaking, The bombs match the description of "special weapons" and have a range of five miles. A former Republican Guard colonel testifies that these weapons match what he was told are chemical weapons--so in essence, a witness is saying that Iraq had possesion of chemical weapons in 2002. The contents will be tested...

WorldNetDaily: U.S. finds buried mobile labshttp://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=32045
April 2003: Near a weapons plant on the outskirts of Karbala, US troops discovered 11 mobile labs capable of biological and chemical used buried in the desert. Also confisticated, were numerous documents inside the labs (yet to be released). The kabs were clearly marked so they could be found, and yet kept hidden. The value of the equipment is an estimated $1 million dollars. Each lab measures 20 by 20 feet, and is versatile enough to be attached to a railway car or a trailer...

U.S. troops find signs of chemical readiness http://www.globalsecurity.org/org/news/2003/030405-chem-readiness01.htm
April 2003: At a training facility (training for what?!?!) in Western Iraq, US forces found tabun, a prohibited nerve gas. As the troops advanced towards Baghdad, they found other signs that Iraq was actively engaging in the use of chemical weapons-at Iraq's largest military industrial complex antidotes for nerve agents were found, documents describing chemical warfare were found, and a white powder used in explosives was found. Evidence suggests that Iraq was preparing to engage in a chemical war....

WorldNetDaily: More chemical weapons in Iraqhttp://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=40754
October 2004: Intelligence coming forward reports a 122-mm Borak rocket warhead contained traces of sarin, US military commanders believe there is more to be found. Other projectiles found by the military have been found to have traces of sarin and mustard gas--and some of these chemicals are winding up in the hands of insurgents

Sunday, March 26, 2006

Central American Forces Strengthen Coalition


Troops from Central America are bravely serving in Iraq--working on reconstruction and security projects,"..while representing their respective nations with distinction and making favorable impressions on their coalition counterparts, according to U.S. officials. (CPA-Iraq.org). Central American troops are from el Salvador, Nicaragua, Dominican Republlic, Honduras and Spain.Central American Troops have taken on such roles as:

*de-mining Iraq
*security patrols
*Central American and Nicaraguan forces have destroyed over 22,000 tons of ammunition, explosives and weapons. They also provided expert knowledge on Soviet-era weapons and munitions.
*Food donations to the Iraqi people
*Rebuilding cities including the building of wells, walkways and bridges.
*Distributing schools supplies and playground equiptment
*Providing medical aid to Iraqi civillians as well as refugees. "The humanitarian efforts of the first contingent of Central American troops were recognized by local authorities and Iraqi civilians with various awards, including one presented by the Iraqi Society for Charity." (CPA-Iraq.org)

Troop numbers have decreased but your efforts are still appreciated. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the troops from Central America serving in Iraq.
Thank-you!

Central American Troops Make Important Contribution in Iraq


Prophecy of the Eagle and the Condor


My tribute for the Central American troops is to share with you the prophecy of the Eagle and the Condor. I am sharing this with you because I believe it is a powerful prophecy, whose message of peace and cooperation illuminate the possibilities when humanity reconnects with our spirituality, and treats each other as equals.


Spiritwheel, Prophesy of Eagle and Condor


The Prophecy of the Eagle and the Condor is told by many Native nations in the Western Hemisphere. The following is an elaboration from the Peace and Dignity Journeys Confederation of the Eagle and Condor Coordinating Council. The Elders of this continent remember and talk about a prophecy that foretold how we will come together and reunite as one. We are like a body that was broken into pieces and this body will come back together to be whole again. They speak about this in the South, Center and North. Our Elders tell us that we will unite and get our strength back like many arrows that will not be broken. They remember the history to keep the fire alive. We have to come together to be one, to have complete understanding. The main tool used was the arrow because our ancestors all over the continent were hunters. In time they added this arrow to a sacred bow. This bow is used all over this continent and is what we call the half moon. They knew we would be around and this bow would be again in the center, marking the direction that we should take. If we take a step we send this arrow to follow. All of our people have to make a new design for our children and the future generations. They said it is written in the stars and we have to make this work so they can move the spiritual energy. This will begin a new time when we can take the Spirit in our own hands when the Eagle and Condor reunite.

Our leaders said that we should not forget to pass this message to our children. We will reunite our family and our people. Their Sun will be a new light. When this is done the people will fulfill their destiny. The pieces will be in place. There is a space for everybody and they will be apart of this prophecy. The majority of our leaders say don't forget to teach our children. All of the last leaders that were in command said to keep the family together. We will be standing in this new design. We will hold this in our home one day. Teach from Father to Son, from Mother to Daughter. It is very simple to understand. The Encounter of the Condor of Urin and the Eagle of Hanan This Prophecy was related during the First Encuentro of Indigeneous Peoples in Quito, Ecuador in 1990. In the unfolding of the life of the Indian Nations, every five centuries produces transformations of both foundations and forms. With these changes, life does not lose its essence. It becomes covered with new skin. The old is rejuvenated. It is nourished with pure energy. This energy Is transmitted by the great spirits of Allpa Mama and Pacha Mama, that Is, of nature and of the Universe, in general. Thousands of years ago, when life Initiated its vital cycle, Pachakamak (God of Time) created Intl (the sun) and Quilla (the moon) out of the union of it's tears and, thus, gave birth to the Runas, to the people, of this continent Appla-Yala and In this birth emerged the Condor and the Eagle, the Kuntur of Urin and the Anga de Hanan, their spirits continually enriching the veins of the Runas of this continent.

Their strength motivated the north and south to unite. The union of the people of the North with the South also signifies the union of the Condor and the Eagle. The Condor and the Eagle join their tears from Jahanpacha (the sky) to Ucupacha (the underground.) Out of this union sprang Central America. In this piece of earth was concentrated the wisdom of Hana and Urin. New nations developed, whose inhabitants had the capacity to sow the earth In the middle of a great ocean and convert it into what is today Central America. These peoples, oriented by the laws of Allpa Mana and Pacha Mama, had to pass through difficult situations, one of which was the splitting of its nations into four parts. After this tragedy, the Willak Umus (prophets) instructed their Amautas, Curacas, Arawikus or wise men to create prophecies that would orient and guide our peoples. These prophecies would teach the Indian nations to maintain themselves solid, united and, above all, to search for the most appropriate paths for their liberation. The beginning of the liberation of the Indian people would be symbolized by different prophecies, one of which Is the union of the tears of the Condor of Urin and the Eagle of Hanan. The union of these tears would cauterize our wounds and fortify our spirit, body and thought. The great spirit would open furrows and in each furrow would water its seed, and In each step would spring battalions of men who would bare their chests to fend off the daggers of the enemy. They would reach out with their hands to erase oppression, exploitation and Injustice, and they would write on the huge page of the sky the sacred word of liberty. The union of the Condor and Eagle, according to the prophecy, should occur in this time. The ensuing time period will be born with a new spirit. This new spirit will unite once again the red nations of North, Central and South parts of the hemisphere.



The Eagle and the Condor Legend

The legend of the Eagle and the Condor goes back a very long time in the Andes and in many other parts of the world. In the Andes it is expressed as the coming of the new Pachacuti. A Pachacuti is an interval of roughly 500 years. It was known for a long, long time before it happened, that the fourth Pachacuti, which began about the 1490's, would be a time of turmoil, of struggle, of conflict. In addition, at the fifth Pachacuti, which began in the late 1990's, it would be a time of coming together, of partnership, of union, and particularly a time when the Eagle of the North will fly with the Condor of the South.

It is known to all the indigenous peoples that there has been unbalance and tremendous conflict throughout the Americas during the past 500 years. The Eagle Power and Spirit which is mental and materialistic, has outweighed and dominated the Condor Spirit which is spiritual and heart centered.

Now it is time for the two to come together and fly in the same skies as equals so that the Earth may become balanced. You can also look at it as the balancing of the male and the female or the yin and the yang.

All this was predicted in many cultures throughout the world. The Mayan people in Central America have similar prophecies for this time. The Dalai Lama said they too have a prediction that there is a new period upon us, and that the 14th, current, Dalai Lama, will be the last from the Himalayas. The next will probably be from the Americas and the best bet, according to them, is that he or she will be from the Andes. A few years ago, the Dalai Lama was in the Andes and he and other Lamas did a ceremony to transfer the responsibility for compassion amongst human beings from the Himalayas to the Andes.

The new Pachacuti, the new era for the coming together of the Eagle and the Condor , is an idea that is shared by many cultures all around the world.

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Link- Good News from the Front

Good News Central: "Over There" the Rest of the Story

Good News from the Front: IQ Coalition Troops Archives

http://goodnewsfromthefront.com/archives/iraq/iq_coalition_troops/index.php


Good News Central is a very informative page with a compilation of sources and stories. Some of what you will find on Good News Central includes: capture of terrorist, troops assisting in humanitarian projects and stroies about the rebuilding of Iraq and Afghanistan (including the rennovation of a water plant in Sumer).

Other topics Include: Society, Economy, Reconstruction, Humanitarian Aid, The Coalition Troops and Security.


For Thought: Never bend your head. Always hold it high.
Look the world straight in the face. -- Helen Keller

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Grieving Father Condemns Suicide Attacks - Palestine

I am posting this article to honor the Muslim people, all over the world, who have been fighting to defend freedom and democracy. Your struggles and sacrifices have not been forgotten. We mourn with you as your children are killed in terrorist attacks, or enlisted to fight on the side of evil. We will continue to keep you in our prayers, and to offer our support.
While the intention of this page is to support our troops--it is also to support you, the brave people who are assisting our soldiers, working to rebuild communities and are taking a stand against terrorism. Thank-you for all of your hard work & contributions. Stay strong.


2002- The father of a young Palestinian boy who took his own life during a suicide attack, has written a letter to the editor of the London Arabic-language newspaper Al-Hayat condemning suicide attacks, and how children are exploited by terrorist groups to take their own lives. The father, Abu Saber reports that members of a terrorist group befriended his son, filled his mind with hate then encourged him to blow himself up in an attack against innocent Israelis. The same terrorist group also attempted to recruit Saber's other son for the same purpose. Saber's letter is so powerful, that I am posting it here, without commentary added. Saber's love for his son and anguish over his death speak for itself. Saber's deep faith, and concerns for his people are best told in his own words.

_________

"I can find no better words with which to begin my letter than the words of Allah, in his precious book [the Koran]: 'Act for the sake of Allah, and do not throw yourselves to destruction with your own hands.'[2] I write this letter with a languishing heart and with eyes that have not ceased weeping. We must, today more than at any other time, obey this Koranic verse, act for the sake of Allah, and refrain from carrying out acts that will throw us to destruction.

Four months ago, I lost my eldest son when his friends tempted him, praising the path of death. They persuaded him to blow himself up in one of Israel's cities. When the pure body of my son was scattered all over, my last signs of life also dispersed, along with hope and my will to exist. Since that day, I am like [an] apparition walking the earth, not to mention that I, my wife, and my other sons and daughters have become displaced since the razing of the home in which we lived.

But the last straw was when I was informed that the friends of my eldest son the martyr were starting to wrap themselves like snakes around my other son, not yet 17, to direct him to the same path towards which they had guided his brother, so that he would blow himself up too to avenge his brother, claiming 'he had nothing to lose.

From the blood of the wounded heart of a father who has lost what is most precious to him in the world, I turn to the leaders of the Palestinian factions, and at their head the leaders of Hamas and Islamic Jihad and their sheikhs, who use religious rulings and statements to urge more and more of the sons of Palestine to their deaths – knowing full well that sending young people to blow themselves up in the heart of Israel deters no enemy and liberates no land. On the contrary, [it] intensifies the aggression, and after every such operation, civilians are killed, homes are razed, and Palestinian cities and villages are reoccupied.

Then these leaders and spokesmen appear [in the media] to threaten the enemy with even graver acts of vengeance for their barbaric deeds. They push more young people to their deaths.

I ask, on my behalf and on behalf of every father and mother informed that their son has blown himself up: 'By what right do these leaders send the young people, even young boys in the flower of their youth, to their deaths?' Who gave them religious or any other legitimacy to tempt our children and urge them to their deaths?

Yes, I say 'death,' not 'martyrdom.' Changing and beautifying the term, or paying a few thousand dollars to the family of the young man who has gone and will never return, does not ease the shock or alter the irrevocable end. The sums of money [paid] to the martyrs' families cause pain more than they heal; they make the families feel that they are being rewarded for the lives of their children."Do the children's lives have a price? Has death become the only way to restore the rights and liberate the land? And if this be the case, why doesn't a single one of all the sheikhs who compete amongst themselves in issuing fiery religious rulings, send his son? Why doesn't a single one of the leaders who cannot restrain himself in expressing his joy and ecstasy on the satellite channels every time a young Palestinian man or woman sets out to blow himself or herself up send his son?"Why, until this very moment, haven't we seen one of the sons, or daughters, of any of these people don an explosive belt and go out to carry out in deed, not in words, what their fathers preach day and night? Are Jihad, martyrdom, and pointless death restricted to a single sector [of the people], without concerning another sector? Doesn't what applies to the sons and daughters of the general public apply [also] to the [leaders'] own sons and daughters? How long will this steadfast people continue to pay the price for the idiotic policy that has proved a colossal failure at obtaining even a tiny part of the usurped Palestinian rights?

But what tears at the soul, pains the heart, and brings tears to the eyes more than anything else is the sight of these sheikhs and leaders evading sending their sons into the fray – such as Mahmoud Al-Zahar, Isma'il Abu Shanab, and Abd Al-'Aziz Al-Rantisi. The moment the Intifada broke out, Al-Zahar sent his son Khaled to America; Abu Shanab sent his son Hassan to Britain; and [as she stated to the press], Rantisi's wife has refrained from sending her son Muhammad to blow himself up. Instead, she sent him to Iraq, to complete his studies there."

Abu Sader


For More Information:
Muslim father blasts suicide bombing
http://www.littlespeck.com/informed/2002/CInformed-021009.htm


Suicide Bomber's Father: Let Hamas and Jihad Leaders Send Their Own Sons
http://www.memri.org/bin/articles.cgi?ID=SP42602

Teach Kids Peace – Palestinian Children Under Fire http://www.teachkidspeace.org/doc1018.php


Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Scottish Soldiers Honor Eid al-Adha

January 2006- Scottish troops (The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and 1st Battalion The Highlanders) stationed at at Camp Abu-Naji in Maysan, just north of Basra have formed a close bond with the Marsh Arabs (Mad'an and Shi'a).
Lt. Colonel Ben Edwards (Scotsman.com News, 1/12/06) comments that the Scotts and the people of Maysan share much in common: a love of the arts and poetry, a strong sense of independance, and a love for football.


To honor the people of Maysan during Eid al-Adha, an Islamic holiday, the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the 1st Battalion have donated a third of their week's food to the people of Maysan. "Eid al-Adha is the most important feast of the Muslim calendar and concludes the holy pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It lasts for four days and commemorates Ibraham's (Abraham's) willingness to obey God by sacrificing his son. According to the Koran, Ibraham was about to sacrifice his son when a voice from heaven stopped him and allowed him to sacrifice a lamb instead." (Scotsman.com News, 1/12/06).
According to Islamic custom, during the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca, Muslims remember the challenges the Prophet Abraham faced, and how his faith was deepened by being tested. At the end of the pilgrimage, Muslims all over the world celebrate the Feat of Eid al-Adha. The feast includes the ritual sacrifice of animals. Once the animal is sacrificed, the meat is cut into thirds and given away.
The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah's commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others. (Sacrifice and Eid al-Adha, About.com)
One third of the meat is given to the family, one third is given to neighbors and friends, and the final third is given to the poor.

The people of Maysan and the Scottish soldiers celebrating Eid al-Adha together have provided us with a positive example that an open heart and an open mind can form a bridge between people, despite any difference.



Information on Scottish Soldiers in Iraq:

British troops assist the people of Maysan in training border guards, and building 22 new forts.Truth on Iraq: Security and safety for the people of Maysan Province increases with completed border forts.
http://truthonirag.blogspot.com/2006/02/security-and-safety-for-people-of.html

Our Soldiers in Iraq, a poem by H. Marshall The Poetry of Scotland - Our Soldiers in Iraq, H Marshall, Scotland.
http://www.it-serve.co.uk/poetry/Other/oursoldiersiniraq.php

A site dedicated to supporting Scottish, British, Australian and American troops. I highly recommend this page.
http://www.electricscotland.com/history/scotreg/iraq.htm

Scotsman.com- News-International. Troops Donate food to Islam event.
http://news.scotsman.com/international.cfm?id=55712006



For More Information on Eid al-Adha and Iraqi Recipes:


Food in the Arab world


Iraq Recipes at Food Down Under Recipe Database


Sacrifice and Eid al-Adha in Islam

Marsh Arabs in Maysan

Maysan: A Short Description of Its People, and Struggle for Freedom


Maysan is one of the 18 provinces of Iraq, in the eastern part of the country. Maysan shares a border with Iran. The people who live in Maysan are called "Marsh Arabs". Marsh Arabs have lived in Maysan for over 5,000 years. Some Marsh Arabs are descendants of Sumerians and Babylonians, known as Ma'dan. Other Marsh Arabs are Shi'a. Marsh Arabs live in the Mesopotamian marshlands of Iraq (between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers). At one time, there were an estimated 500,000 (roughly the population of New Orleans before Hurricane Katrina) Marsh Arabs living in Maysan. Marsh Arabs have a unique culture that is adapted to the wetlands--their society and economy is based on fishing, use of the reed plant, farming marsh plants and herding water buffalo. Many homes and buildings in Maysan are also made of reeds. Boats are an essential mode of travel in the Maysan. Due to the ravages of Saddam's genocide against the Marsh Arabs, there are only an estimated 20,000 living in Maysan. As refugees return to Mayson, the younger generations face a unique challenge; having lived in refugee camps or foreign countries for so long, the youth have to relearn how to live in Maysan, and adjust their identity to living in their homeland again.


During the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), the Maysan was a major battleground. Militia groups based in Iran, travelled on well-concealed routes through Maysan to conduct resistance attacks against Saddam. Army deserters also sought shelter in Maysan, and joined resistance groups. At one time, Saddam deployed 20,000 troops to Saddam. Despite the bloodshed and the terror, the Marsh Arabs continued to fight for their freedom.


The UN declared a cease fire for the Persian Gulf War on March 1, 1991. The UN did not want to remove Saddam from power because it was believed that resolutions would work to instill order, and provide a model for other Middle East nations to resolve disputes through diplomacy. Initially, the Gulf War was a multi-lateral effort, 30 nations joined with US forces to remove Saddam from Kuwait, and prevent his advance into Saudi Arabia. The elder President HW Bush lost support to remove Saddam from power, and so chose not to forcefully compel Saddam to step down. President HW Bush did, however, encourage the people of Iraq to revolt.

After the UN declared a ceasefire, a revolt against Saddam was led by the Kurds and Shi'a Arabs in Northern and Southern Iraq. The streets became battlegrounds for demonstrations, attacks on government buildings and battles against Saddam's soldiers. By April 1991 Saddam had brutally subdued the revolt with methods such as helicopters shooting at civilians (many who were escaping and unarmed), cannon attacks on churches and schools, mass executions and bombing cities block by block. Karbala suffered the worst damage in Saddam's attacks. Holy Shi'a shrines were used as torture chambes where innocent citizens--many women, children and even the elderly--were tortured, raped, and executed. Saddam's armies looted the Shi'a cities, material objects held more value than a human life. Many of those who survived Saddam's campaign of murder fled to refugee camps in Iran, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. US, British and French troops established a safe zone in Northern Iraq--Kurdish territory to offer haven to refugees. A "no fly zone" also covered Kurdish territory. Others who failed to escape Iraq continued to be persecuted and killed--on up to the liberation of Iraq in March 2003. An estimated 50,000 Shi'a were killed by Saddam during the 1991 Uprising--that number is expected to be double or tripled as mass graves are still being found in Iraq.


Saddam feared the strength of Shi'a Arab rebels who were training in Iran, and determined to throw Saddam from power. Saddam wanted to send a message to prevent future rebellions so he brutally subdued the Marsh Arabs with bombings and chemical attacks in marshland villages. Saddam's helicopters would dump gasoline on villagers escaping the carnage then set them on fire. Fiercely independant, the Marsh Arabs continued to rebel Saddam Hussein, and as a result were targets for a campaign of genocide. Saddam implemented a deliberate strategy known as a "Plan for the Marshes" (see http://www.irag.org.uk/odocs.php?id=9&word=van%20der%20stoel#) to murder and remove all Marsh Arabs who live in Maysan. Following the 1991 Gulf War, Saddam gave his approval to poison "enemies", burn down homes and villages, and torture and murder of innocent people. Lagoons and other sources of water remaining in Maysan were dangerous because of water mines or poisons placed in them. There have been reports that Saddam's army used babies as "shields" to place in front or on their tanks to deter "enemy" fire (Saddam also used innocent people to place in front of tanks as "shields" during the initial stages of the 1991 Uprising). Saddam also ordered the marshes of the Maysan to be drained. The marshes were trained by re-directing the flow of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers--effectively turning the Maysan into a dry desert (the rivers were re-directed to flow into the Gulf). Dams and levees were also built to keep water from flowing into Maysan. Maysan includes the largest wetland in the Middle East--which had been 95% drained by 2003. As a result, the Marsh Arabs had no means of food, shelter or work. Nor were they safe to live under persecution. The United Nations declared the draining of Maysan to be one of the world's worst environmental disasters. Marsh Arabs began to flee Maysan--seeking shelter in refugee camps Iran or living as displaced people within Iraq.

After the liberation of Iraq in March 2003, and the subsequent overthrow of Saddam Hussein, Marsh Arabs are returning to Maysan. Iraqi engineers and relief organizations are working hard to restore the marshlands. It is important for the US government, and all foreign governments working within the Coalition to recognize the importance of the Maysan marshlands--and the independance of Marsh Arabs. The restoration of the marshes needs to continue, and Marsh Arabs need to be included in the rebuilding of the Maysan.
Those who are charged with rebuilding Iraq and with redressing the violations of human rights within that beleaguered nation need to recognize that re-flooding the marshes is a fundamental imperative. Remnants of the Marsh culture should not be abandoned as a lost people, nor should their homeland be left as desiccated wastes for oil, agribusiness, and other business interests to develop at will. The international community ought to ensure that the Shi'a Marsh Inhabitants have what they need to restore and reinhabit their homeland and to again shape the region in a sustainable manner. Not to do so prolongs the human and environmental injustice begun by Saddam Hussein's regime. (Twilight People: Iraq's Marsh Inhabitants, 2004. Kazmi and Leiderman. http://www.irag.org.uk/odocs.php?id=9&word=van%20der%20stoel#)
US and Coalition troops are working hard to stabilize and bring peace to the Mayson. Several charity and relief organizations from around the world are also conducting humanitarian projects in the Maysan. Saddam is currently being tried for war crimes and charges of genocide including atrocities against the Kurds and against Marsh Arabs.


Information on Marsh Arabs:

Crimes Committed by the Iraqi Regime: the Uprising of March 1991
Indict - Crimes
http://www.indict.org.uk/crimedetails.php?crime=March1991


Marsh Arabs Cling to Memories of a Culture Nearly Crushed by Husseinhttp://www.iraqfoundation.org/news/2003/dapril/28_marshes.html


International Medical Corps Marsh Arabs--a healthy future in an ancient culture http://www.imcworldwide.org/loc_iraq2_AmarahHealth.shtml


"Marsh Arabs: A Unique Way of Life" by Aisha el-Awady.
IslamOnline - Art & Entertainment Section http://www.islamonline.net/English/ArtCulture/2004/09/article01.shtml


Tor Eigeland - Writer and Photographer -Iraq - Marsh Arabs - Photo Galleryhttp://www.toreigeland.com/iraq_marsh-arabs/iraq_marsharabs.htm


Relief International is working in Maysan to assist the Marsh Arabs (or Shias) in rebuilding their devastated homeland. Welcome to Relief Internationalhttp://www.ri.org/countries.php?cid=8


Shia News Europe Saddam's massacre of Shias at Kerbala
http://www.shianews.com/hi/europe/news_id/0000435.php

. "The Killing of Iraq's Ancient Marsh Culture" -- an article about Saddam's campaign of genocide against Marsh Arabs.
http://www.genocidewatch.org/IraqmarsharabsJanuary26.htm


A passionate article about the history and culture of Marsh Arabs--and the importance of international support to fight for their survival. Twilight People: Iraq's Marsh Inhabitants http://www.irag.org.uk/odocs.php?id=9&word=van%20der%20stoel#

THANKS from My Family