Posted: 5/7/03

A Marine writes from Iraq

Hello my family. Iím alright. And that is good. I'm in a hurry to come back. No surprise. I think I need a Latte.

Thank You for all the letters from the patrons that you've had there. I am so happy to know people still care for Their Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, and Airmen. Iíve heard about the protests back there, and I really would rather believe that they are un-true.

I feel that we have done great, and very humane things here. Acts which we are proud of. We have helped feed, and protect more innocents than we have fought enemy.

Yes I believe War to be Hell. Iíve seen it, and I believe it. I just hope that you my Family. You my parents. You my Siblings. You my Friends, and Neighbors. In other-words. My Family. We thought of You the whole time. When the job allowed. We felt as You felt.

We wanted an easier way. We still do. All I see are happy faces now. This War was just, and well won. With fierce Honor in War. And strong compassion in our Humanity towards these people. Iíve been nicer to some here, than back home, I think.

I hope You hold strong, and cherish your Men, your Women. Your Family. I know your hearts are with us. Because I know mine is with You.

Some of My friends, My Brothers will not return to their children. To their Families. I saw them fall. They did not all rise. I pray for them in my fashion. I hope You back home do too.

Thank You for keeping me safe with your words. Your thoughts. You are the true ìBackboneî of the military. Without you, We have nothing to serve for, nothing to fight for. And nothing to live for.

We here in Iraq are proud of You, and your support for all of us. I hope I can serve You till I pass. Because this Marine is keeping the faith in my Corps, my Country, my God. I love You all. My Family.

SEMPER FIDELIS-ALWAYS FAITHFUL

Sgt Timothy McNeely
1ST MARINE DIVISION

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