2005: The 141st Engineer Battalion of the North Dakota National Guard worked for months in Iraq, clearing roadside bombs. Sadly, four members of the Battalion were killed while clearing those bombs.
One day, while on patrol, the 141st Battalion encountered a stalled vehicle at the side of the road. As they cautiously approached the vehicle, they were greeted by Mr. M, who would later invite the Battalion to his home for dinner. Mr. M appreciated the presence of the soldiers in Iraq because he knew of the horrors of Saddam Hussein's regime, and he so desperately wanted change for the people of Iraq. While Saddam was in power, Mr. M worked in the resistance against Saddam. When Mr. M was caught opposing Saddam, he was sent to Abu Gharaib prison and tortured. Mr. M befriended the soldiers and assisted in their work by warning them about roadside bombs and giving them information about insurgents. Mr. M worked hard to assist the Battalion while also working to bring freedom and peace to Iraq. Mr. M stepped forward to help the Battalion without being asked, even after having suffered so much--he was a man of integrity and courage.
Mr. M paid with his life for assisting the soldiers. Insurgents forced Mr. M's truck off tthe road, ordering Mr. M and his eleven-year old son out. Mr. M was then shot 30 times--right in front of his son. (I had to take a breath while reading this--the trauma on that child is unimaginable.) The child survived but the entire family has been threatened by insurgents, and went into hiding. The news of the murder of Mr. M hit the Battalion hard--he was family to them.
Soldiers of the 141st Battalion have worked hard to bring the family of Mr. M to the US to live a better life. The Battalion raised money to pay for plane tickets so the M family could fly to Fargo, North Dakota. The Department of Defense said the family can come to the US and apply for political asylum. The wife of Mr. M has a brother living in Fargo, who fled to the US after being persecuted by Saddam. Many of their family members were killed by Saddam. The brother went on to assist Special Forces fighting in Iraq.
The family of Mr. M, which includes seven children, were able to move from Iraq to Fargo. After landing in Fargo, the M family was greeted by the soldiers who offered hugs and gifts. Unfortuneately the two-year old daughter of the M family was hit by bomb shrapnel and suffered severe injuries to her eye. She will be receiving treatment in the US. The family was also blessed by the birth of Mrs. M's youngest child--born six weeks early but also was able to make the trip to Fargo. Things that will be new to this family in Fargo include snow and tator tot hotdish. Please keep this family in your prayers.
For More Information:
MPR: North Dakota soldiers repay a debt to Iraqi family
http://news.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/2005/04/29_gundersond_iraqifamily/
Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota - News & Events
http://www.lssnd.org/htmls/events.asp?NewsID=85
(Includes contact information on how to help the M family)
Soldiers save Iraqi family - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics - May 23, 2005
http://www.washtimes.com/national/20050522-115737-9342r.htm
Friday, January 20, 2006
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Prayer Wheel for our Troops
A prayer wheel is an e-mail sent from one person to another, to join people in an effort to pray together. The prayer wheel usually includes instructions to forward the e-mail, and also includes a special prayer. I received this prayer wheel from a friend but was unable to post the pictures. So I am including a link at the bottom so you can view the pictures on the internet. Enjoy--and please keep our soldiers and the Coalition in your thoughts & prayers.
The Military
The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either. He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155mm howitzer. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.
He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime.
He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them. He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.
He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding. Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood. And now we even have woman over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot.. A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets.
Prayer wheel for our military... please don't break it. Please send this on after a short prayer. Prayer Wheel "Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen." Prayer : When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in the air, and for those in Iraq. There is nothing attached.... This can be very powerful....... Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Coastguardsman, Marine or Airman, prayer is the very best one.
Chaplain - Thank families for deployed soldiershttp://www.calguard.ca.gov/40div/chaplain.htm
The Military
The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either. He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155mm howitzer. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.
He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime.
He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them. He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.
He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding. Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood. And now we even have woman over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot.. A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets.
Prayer wheel for our military... please don't break it. Please send this on after a short prayer. Prayer Wheel "Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen." Prayer : When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in the air, and for those in Iraq. There is nothing attached.... This can be very powerful....... Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Coastguardsman, Marine or Airman, prayer is the very best one.
Chaplain - Thank families for deployed soldiershttp://www.calguard.ca.gov/40div/chaplain.htm
Saturday, January 07, 2006
2005:Soldiers Offer Gift of Life for Baby Noor
December 2005: Noor al-Zahra (her name means "the white light") was born with a severe spinal defect, spina bifida, that could not be treated in Iraq. The outlook for Noor looked grim--but her family did not loose hope for this beautiful baby girl. A miracle happened when the soldiers entered the Noor's home, looking for insurgents. A relative pleaded with the soldiers to look at the sick baby; among the soldiers was a 19-year old medic named Pfc. Justin Donnelly. Donelly noticed a tumor on baby Noor's back, and took a picture of it so he could consult with doctors back at base. In an interview with the press, Donnelly's mother expressed that her son is very compassionate towards the children of Iraq, and has an interest in helping them. Donelly is also said to be a man of faith, who enthusiastically attends church each week. So began an incredible journey, when baby Noor is taken to Georgia to receive needed medical treatment--at no cost. Without the surgery, baby Noor was not expected to live through her childhood. There is a risk that Noor will be paralyzed in both legs from the spina bifida. Both Noor's father, Haider, and her grandmother, Soad, travelled with her to America. the mother of Baby Noor remains in Iraq because according to custom, the grandmother is the family matriarch. Arrangements have been made for the family to stay with an Arabic-speaking family. The family is so thankful for the help offered that they gave Noor a new name, Georgia...
Sending a heartfelt thanks to all the soldiers, medical teams, volunteers, and the host family who have been so compassionate in offering help to Baby Noor and her family. Please keep Noor in your prayers.
For More Information:
Click here: Iraqi baby's new name: Georgia The 48th goes to war ajc.com
http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/guard/entries/2005/12/29/iraqi_babys_new.html
CBS News Iraqi Baby Arrives For Treatment January 2, 2006 10:07:22
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/12/31/health/main1172358.shtml
The Ithaca Journal - www.theithacajournal.com - Ithaca, NY
http://www.theithacajournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051231/NEWS01/512310326/1002
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_____________
UPDATES: BABY NOOR
Jan. 2006: Baby Noor's first surgery, to place her spinal cord back into her body, was a success. Doctors report that without the surgery, Baby Noor would not have survived childhood. Three operations are planned for Baby Noor. After the operation, Baby Noor was reported to be smiling and cooing. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is providing care for Baby Noor for free.
The Seattle Times: Nation & World: Baby Noor's first surgery leaves doctors optimistic
Lt. Jeff Morgan, a Georgia National Guardsman serving in Baghdad and a member of Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church, sent an urgent plea to his home church asking for help in bringing Noor al-Zahra, a 3-month-old girl born with a severe form of spina bifida, to the United States for surgery....
Georgia church leads effort to help Iraqi baby - UMC.org
_______________________________________
Feb. 2006: Baby Noor underwent surgeryto correct a deformity in her foot, "Dr. Michael Busch performed the outpatient orthopedic procedure to fix a condition in which shortened tendons and tightened ligaments in the back of her left ankle caused the toes and heel of her foot to be stuck pointed downward. The surgery is designed to release the contracture and lower her risk of skin breakdown, reduce injuries, and allow her to wear shoes." (11Alive.com) While the surgery is successful, due to the severity of the deformity the doctors do not think Baby Noor will be able to walk. After the surgery, Baby Noor will require further therapy on her foot that requires that she wear a cast and then a splint.
11Alive.com - Baby Noor Has Surgery on Foot
(Press Release About Baby Noor, More info about Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Information on how to make donations to Children's Healthcare..)
Press Releases - Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
__________________________________
March 10, 2006: Baby Noor is healing at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta after a surgery that was successful. The surgery involved placing a shunt in baby Noor's head to relieve fluid build up on her brain. While the surgery was successful, and Baby Noor's prognosis is good doctors predict that Baby Noor will probably not be able to use her legs, and may require use of a wheelchair.
CNN.com - Hospital: Baby Noor's new surgery 'successful' - Mar 10, 2006
____________________
By "coincedence", my friend Pamela sent me this incredible e-mail today, the same day I posted this article about Baby Noor. "Coincedentally" this article involves an unborn baby diagnosed with spina bifida whose family is from Georgia. I don't believe in coincedences, and thought there was a deeper message to have received this e-mail today. So am posting it in full below.
"A picture began circulating in November. It should be "The Picture of the Year," or perhaps, "Picture of the Decade." It won't be. In fact, unless you obtained a copy of the US paper which published it, you probably would never have seen it.
The picture is that of a 21-week-old unborn baby named Samuel Alexander Armas, who is being operated on by surgeon named Joseph Bruner.
The baby was diagnosed with spina bifida and would not survive if removed from his mother's womb. Little Samuel's mother, Julie Armas, is an obstetrics nurse in Atlanta. She knew of Dr. Bruner's remarkable surgical procedure. Practicing at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, he performs these special operations while he baby is still in the womb.
During the procedure, the doctor removes the uterus via C-section and makes a small incision to operate on the baby. As Dr. Bruner completed the surgery on Samuel, the little guy reached his tiny, but fully developed hand through the incision and firmly grasped the surgeon's finger. Dr. Bruner was reported as saying that when his finger was grasped, it was the most emotional moment of his life, and that for an instant during the procedure he was just frozen, totally immobile.
The photograph captures this amazing event with perfect clarity. The editors titled the picture, "Hand of Hope." The text explaining the picture begins, "The tiny hand of 21-week-old fetus Samuel Alexander Armas emerges from the mother's uterus to grasp the finger of Dr. Joseph Bruner as if thanking the doctor for the gift of life." Little Samuel's mother said they "wept for days" when they saw the picture. She said, "The photo reminds us pregnancy isn't about disability or an illness, it's about a little person."
Samuel was born in perfect health, the operation 100 percent successful.
************************************
"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb..." JEREMIAH 1:5
For More Information on Baby Samuel's Operation:
Hand of Hope - Samuel Alexander Armas - Netlore Archive
http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl-handofhope.htm
This amazing photo, taken by Michael Clancy and originally published in USA Today and The Tennessean on September 7, 1999, is authentic. It began circulating via email within weeks of its first appearance in newspapers. The accompanying text is basically accurate, as well.
Breaking The Chain: Samuel Alexander Armas
http://www.lava.net/~higak/chain/other/babysamuel.htm
Multi-National Force Photos and Web Link
The Multi-National Force works alongside the Iraqi government. The job of the Multi-National Force is to train, equipt and organize Iraqi security forces. The Multi-National Force also works on the frontlines conducting counter-insurgency missions and conducting operations to immobilize extremist and terrorist groups in Iraq.
What is the Multi-National Force doing in Iraq? See for yourself! The MNF Webpage is an excellent source of news and information and includes a photo gallery of the work our troops are doing in Iraq. Some of the photos include: Graduation ceremony of the cadets at the Najaf Police Academy, troops working with the people of As Siniyah to build a security berm (a high wall-often made of earth) around their village to keep insurgents out, and soldiers being briefed on a mission.
MNF-Iraq Photos
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/mnfphotos.htm
Don't stop there... Click on the "Most Wanted" tab and view the mugshots. You may be able to help catch a fugitive. Also has updates on captured and killed fugitives. Out of 55 of the most wanted, only 11 men are at large. The two men killed mentioned on this page are Saddam's heinous sons. All of the other 42 fugitives have surrender, been captured or are in custody. We congratulate our Multi-National Forces on their GREAT work in catching these dangerous fugitives!
Iraq's 55 Most Wanted
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/most%20wanted.htm
Other information you will find on the MNF page include:
Reconstruction in Iraq
Training of Iraqi Security Forces
Links to US and UK Tribute pages dedicated to our fallen warriors
Facts about Iraq
What is the Multi-National Force doing in Iraq? See for yourself! The MNF Webpage is an excellent source of news and information and includes a photo gallery of the work our troops are doing in Iraq. Some of the photos include: Graduation ceremony of the cadets at the Najaf Police Academy, troops working with the people of As Siniyah to build a security berm (a high wall-often made of earth) around their village to keep insurgents out, and soldiers being briefed on a mission.
MNF-Iraq Photos
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/mnfphotos.htm
Don't stop there... Click on the "Most Wanted" tab and view the mugshots. You may be able to help catch a fugitive. Also has updates on captured and killed fugitives. Out of 55 of the most wanted, only 11 men are at large. The two men killed mentioned on this page are Saddam's heinous sons. All of the other 42 fugitives have surrender, been captured or are in custody. We congratulate our Multi-National Forces on their GREAT work in catching these dangerous fugitives!
Iraq's 55 Most Wanted
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/most%20wanted.htm
Other information you will find on the MNF page include:
Reconstruction in Iraq
Training of Iraqi Security Forces
Links to US and UK Tribute pages dedicated to our fallen warriors
Facts about Iraq
Thursday, January 05, 2006
2003:Special Forces Discover Underground Base- WMD Training Facility, 51 Hidden Fighter Jets
April 2003: The Special Forces of the Australian Defence have found a remarkable, and highly dangerous discovery at an Iraqi base west of Baghdad. Inside the base, Special Forces found more than 51 Soviet produced fighter jets, a chemical-proof bunker, an anti-aircraft missile system and a large storage facility of anti-aircraft guns and munitions. The fighter jets were well cared for, and fully operational. The chemical-proof bunker is an underground facility that includes a training center for handling WMD.
The Coalition had bombed the base early in the invasion of Iraq but it was the Australian troops who secured the base. 200 brave Australian soldiers took control of the base after a battle with armed Iraqi soldiers. The Iraqi soldiers were not able to commandeer the jets, and after a lengthy exchange of messages they finally gave themselves up...
Article by Tom Allard, Herald Correspondent in Doha, April 19 2003
Full Article Online at Sydney Morning Herald:
Special forces find underground weapons base - War on Iraq - smh.com.au
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/04/18/1050172758068.html
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our soldiers and Coalition allies in Iraq and Afghanistan. Excellent work Special Forces! We are also praying for the people of Iraq as they rebuild their country.
__________
The discovery of the underground base outside of Baghdad by Australian Special Forces was vital in bringing stability to the area, and gaining ground in the ongoing battle against insurgent terrorists operating within Iraq. As Saddam Hussein's trial continues in Baghdad, let us not forget the soldiers who are so valiantly fighting to bring peace and democracy to Iraq. If not for the efforts and sacrifices of US and Coalition soldiers, and the brave Iraqi people taking up the fight alongside them, this trial would not be. Saddam will be held accountable. It is the Iraqi people who will take back their power to place judgment on him.
Two Quotes Highlighting What the War in Iraq is About:
"Let be despised those who are infected with the disease of loving Zionism, America, their followers and supporters at the expense of their people and nation....
The most important characteristics of Man's purity and the level of his seriousness in what he says, declares or promises is to be true. If he is true, he will become honest to what he is entrusted with. The principles and the promise they include, as goals of the struggle of the people and Nation, the power of the state and all its aspects, the mobilization of the people for positions of struggle and jihad against the foreign ambitions during a particular stage before the assuming power, and holding up to its all goals, is a trust which should be bore and protected. The fulfillment of this trust is a great truthfulness and grand struggle and jihad..."
--Saddam Hussein January 16, 1999.
"The intelligence picture they paint is one accumulated over the past four years. It is extensive, detailed and authoritative. It concludes that Iraq has chemical and biological weapons, that Saddam has continued to produce them, that he has existing and active military plans for the use of chemical and biological weapons, which could be activated within 45 minutes, including against his own Shia population; and that he is actively trying to acquire nuclear weapons capability.
On chemical weapons, the dossier shows that Iraq continues to produce chemical agent for chemical weapons; has rebuilt previously destroyed production plants across Iraq; has bought dual-use chemical facilities; has retained the key personnel formerly engaged in the chemical weapons programme; and has a serious ongoing research programme into weapons production, all of it well funded."
Prime Minister Blair's Iraq statement to Parliament, 9/24/2002.
_____________________________
For More Information:
This 1999 address by Saddam basically is an invitation for a coalition, led by Saddam, to lead jihad and the "mother of all battles" against America, Britain, Israel and our allies, including NATO.
Address of Saddam Hussein January 16, 1999
http://www.meij.or.jp/text/Gulf%20War/19990116.htm
Prime Minister's Speeches - 2002 - Iraq Statement to Parliament
http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page1727.asp
Comprehensive Report of the Special Advisor to the DCI on Iraq’s WMD
http://www.cia.gov/cia/reports/iraq_wmd_2004/chap5.html
An interesting document--Subject reads "Truck Driver from Iraq", Document includes a detailed listed of chemical facilities and bases in Iraq, including areas around Baghdad.
SUBJECT: IRAQI CHEMICAL WARFARE PROGRAM
http://www.fas.org/irp/gulf/cia/960506/63791_01.htm
Special forces find underground weapons base - War on Iraq - smh.com.au
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/04/18/1050172758068.html
The Coalition had bombed the base early in the invasion of Iraq but it was the Australian troops who secured the base. 200 brave Australian soldiers took control of the base after a battle with armed Iraqi soldiers. The Iraqi soldiers were not able to commandeer the jets, and after a lengthy exchange of messages they finally gave themselves up...
Article by Tom Allard, Herald Correspondent in Doha, April 19 2003
Full Article Online at Sydney Morning Herald:
Special forces find underground weapons base - War on Iraq - smh.com.au
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/04/18/1050172758068.html
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our soldiers and Coalition allies in Iraq and Afghanistan. Excellent work Special Forces! We are also praying for the people of Iraq as they rebuild their country.
__________
The discovery of the underground base outside of Baghdad by Australian Special Forces was vital in bringing stability to the area, and gaining ground in the ongoing battle against insurgent terrorists operating within Iraq. As Saddam Hussein's trial continues in Baghdad, let us not forget the soldiers who are so valiantly fighting to bring peace and democracy to Iraq. If not for the efforts and sacrifices of US and Coalition soldiers, and the brave Iraqi people taking up the fight alongside them, this trial would not be. Saddam will be held accountable. It is the Iraqi people who will take back their power to place judgment on him.
Two Quotes Highlighting What the War in Iraq is About:
"Let be despised those who are infected with the disease of loving Zionism, America, their followers and supporters at the expense of their people and nation....
The most important characteristics of Man's purity and the level of his seriousness in what he says, declares or promises is to be true. If he is true, he will become honest to what he is entrusted with. The principles and the promise they include, as goals of the struggle of the people and Nation, the power of the state and all its aspects, the mobilization of the people for positions of struggle and jihad against the foreign ambitions during a particular stage before the assuming power, and holding up to its all goals, is a trust which should be bore and protected. The fulfillment of this trust is a great truthfulness and grand struggle and jihad..."
--Saddam Hussein January 16, 1999.
"The intelligence picture they paint is one accumulated over the past four years. It is extensive, detailed and authoritative. It concludes that Iraq has chemical and biological weapons, that Saddam has continued to produce them, that he has existing and active military plans for the use of chemical and biological weapons, which could be activated within 45 minutes, including against his own Shia population; and that he is actively trying to acquire nuclear weapons capability.
On chemical weapons, the dossier shows that Iraq continues to produce chemical agent for chemical weapons; has rebuilt previously destroyed production plants across Iraq; has bought dual-use chemical facilities; has retained the key personnel formerly engaged in the chemical weapons programme; and has a serious ongoing research programme into weapons production, all of it well funded."
Prime Minister Blair's Iraq statement to Parliament, 9/24/2002.
_____________________________
For More Information:
This 1999 address by Saddam basically is an invitation for a coalition, led by Saddam, to lead jihad and the "mother of all battles" against America, Britain, Israel and our allies, including NATO.
Address of Saddam Hussein January 16, 1999
http://www.meij.or.jp/text/Gulf%20War/19990116.htm
Prime Minister's Speeches - 2002 - Iraq Statement to Parliament
http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page1727.asp
Comprehensive Report of the Special Advisor to the DCI on Iraq’s WMD
http://www.cia.gov/cia/reports/iraq_wmd_2004/chap5.html
An interesting document--Subject reads "Truck Driver from Iraq", Document includes a detailed listed of chemical facilities and bases in Iraq, including areas around Baghdad.
SUBJECT: IRAQI CHEMICAL WARFARE PROGRAM
http://www.fas.org/irp/gulf/cia/960506/63791_01.htm
Special forces find underground weapons base - War on Iraq - smh.com.au
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/04/18/1050172758068.html
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Talking Proud on Coalition Soldiers--Amazing Photo Essay
Happy New Year!
Below is a link to a photo essay on Talking Proud that celebrates the hard work of the Coalition troops working alongside US Troops in Iraq. These are pictures that tell amazing stories by what they portray. Countries from all over Europe, Asia, South America and Australia are represented on this site. I highly recommend a visit to the Talking Proud link.
"Obtaining allies in the war in Iraq has not been easy. Keeping them has not been easy either. But many women and men from other countries have served with us in Iraq, and still are serving. Regardless of what their politicians have done or are going to do about their continued presence there, these courageous soldiers deserve a salute from all Americans, all those who have come and gone, and those who remain." --Talking Proud, updated May 2005
Talking Proud is a website founded by Edward S. Marek, its purpose is to highlight what is good about America and Americans. The site includes topics such as: culture, history, photos, quotes and much more. This site is entertaining as well as educational. Talking Proud is a great site to visit with children. Thank-you for your wonderful tribute.
Photo Tribute to the Coalition:
A salute to our gallant allies in Iraq
http://www.talkingproud.us/International022705.html
Talking Proud's Military Page: Archives Military
http://www.talkingproud.us/ArchivesMilitary.html
Link-America Supports YOU
America Supports You is a US Department of Defense website encouraging people to show their support for our troops, helping people network in shared projects and offering news and information.
Some of what you will find on America Supports You includes:
*Send a message to the troops
*Photo Essays
*Information on projects in which you can support our troops
*News
*Musical tributes
*Articles about the efforts of children to support our troops, and help with humanitarian projects overseas (for example, in Washington a troop of Girl Scouts donated cookies as part of a care package for US soldiers deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The care packages also included gifts for Iraqi and Afghan children. Show Your Support)
*Upcoming Events
America Supports You
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/americasupportsyou/index.aspx
Some of what you will find on America Supports You includes:
*Send a message to the troops
*Photo Essays
*Information on projects in which you can support our troops
*News
*Musical tributes
*Articles about the efforts of children to support our troops, and help with humanitarian projects overseas (for example, in Washington a troop of Girl Scouts donated cookies as part of a care package for US soldiers deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The care packages also included gifts for Iraqi and Afghan children. Show Your Support)
*Upcoming Events
America Supports You
http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/americasupportsyou/index.aspx
2005:Troops in Iraq Serve as Diplomats
March 2005: The work of US troops in Iraq is a job with many tasks but with one goal--to bring peace and stability to the region. In this article, Charlie Coon of Stars and Stripes discusses the diplomatic role of the US troops, working alongside with the Iraqi people and their leaders. Some of the diplomatic tasks the US army performs is to assist the transition of new leaders coming into office, learn Iraqi customs to negotiate relationships or contracts, and advise new government leaders.This is a very informative article that includes several personal stories of the soldiers and the Iraqis they are working with.
Troops in Iraq Are Also Diplomats
http://www.military.com/NewContent/0,13190,SS_032405_Diplomats,00.html
Thought to Ponder: Isaiah 42:5-7 (Good News Bible), "God created the heavens and stretched them out; he fashioned the earth and all that lives there; he gave life and breath to all its people. And now the Lord God says to his servant, 'I the Lord, have called you and given you power to see that justice is done on earth. Through you I will make a covenant with all peoples; through you I will bring a light to the nations. You will open the eyes of the blind and set free those who sit in dark prisons.'"
Troops in Iraq Are Also Diplomats
http://www.military.com/NewContent/0,13190,SS_032405_Diplomats,00.html
Thought to Ponder: Isaiah 42:5-7 (Good News Bible), "God created the heavens and stretched them out; he fashioned the earth and all that lives there; he gave life and breath to all its people. And now the Lord God says to his servant, 'I the Lord, have called you and given you power to see that justice is done on earth. Through you I will make a covenant with all peoples; through you I will bring a light to the nations. You will open the eyes of the blind and set free those who sit in dark prisons.'"
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Link- Support Our Soldiers, Assist with Humanitarian Projects
Help Iraq children and support US soldiers directly
http://home.comcast.net/~carol.wright/HelpSoldiersAndIraqiChildren.html
This is a wonderful site divided into three sections. Each section has several links to offer more information and ways you can assist our troops:
1) Information and links about humanitarian and outreach projects in which US troops are assisting the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. Five projects are listed. Businesses, schools, churches and families in America have also helped with several projects--take a look at this site, your efforts and donations are greatly appreciated!
2) Blogs from Iraq: Iraq Kids
3) Information and Links on how to help/support soldiers.
There is also an e-mail address to contact the website creator with comments or suggestions. This site is a great source of information. I urge all of you to keep on reading, keep on researching, and keep on helping out in ways that you can.
Thought To Ponder: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi
http://home.comcast.net/~carol.wright/HelpSoldiersAndIraqiChildren.html
This is a wonderful site divided into three sections. Each section has several links to offer more information and ways you can assist our troops:
1) Information and links about humanitarian and outreach projects in which US troops are assisting the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. Five projects are listed. Businesses, schools, churches and families in America have also helped with several projects--take a look at this site, your efforts and donations are greatly appreciated!
2) Blogs from Iraq: Iraq Kids
3) Information and Links on how to help/support soldiers.
There is also an e-mail address to contact the website creator with comments or suggestions. This site is a great source of information. I urge all of you to keep on reading, keep on researching, and keep on helping out in ways that you can.
Thought To Ponder: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi
2004- Christmas Cheer in Iraq without the Snow
In this uplifting article from January 2004, Gary Lane, of CW News, reports that despite the challenges facing US troops deployed in Iraq, despite the danger and despite missing families and friends at home--most US soldiers are strengthened by the mission that has brought them to Iraq. Lane reports that during the holiday season, many US soldiers brought Christmas cheer to Iraq by showing compassion and care towards the Iraqi people. Some of the accomplishments Lane reports are soldiers building a playground at an orphanage, soldiers bringing gifts to an orphanage dressed as Santa and taking the time to give children affection & attention. This article is also unique in that it discusses faith, and I could not help but to notice that part of the joy of Christmas in Iraq is being able to freely express your beliefs. I highly recommend this article.
Christmas in Iraq: U.S. Troops Give Joy to Iraqi Children
http://www.cbn.com/CBNNews/CWN/010204iraq.asp
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