News from Chris in Iraq

Greetings from the Ministry of the Interior. Yep, finally got internet here.

We've been here for a month, after spending 47 days up the street at the Monument of Saddam's Qadissiya Matyrs for 47 days, and before that about 2 weeks on the western side of the Tigris River at the Old Palace Presidential Site, West Baghdad's version of Camp David, but probably much more gawdy and lavish. Most of y'all know we were the first ones across the border March 20 and led the 3rd Infantry Division's attack up the western desert, all the way to Karbala Gap, where we secured the bridge over the Euphrates, allowing the other 2 brigades of 3rd ID move into position to attack Baghdad. Yeah, when you've been through what we've been through, ya' gotta' brag a
little.
Anyway, they've evaluated and re-evaluated and it appears 1st Armored Division still can't keep these people in line, so we're still an "important" part of V Corps for now. The Corps commander should know what kind of wimps 1st AD is since he was just the division commander. When we took over from the Marines here in the eastern part of Baghdad, the shooting and crime went down. Now, even though they relieved us a month ago, the crime and shootings have gone back up. 2 looters who also stabbed 2 other Iraqis found out the hard way what happens when you try to resist an Infantry Quick Reactionary Force (QRF) of 5-8 guys from C Co, 2-7 Infantry. You end up with a severe head trauma. Got the pictures to prove it. Anyway, there's another re-re-evaluation supposed to be on the 15th. If 2nd Brigade gets the word to leave, we should be leaving mid-August. But, for now. I'm still counting on the early September scenario. Even the locals say that 1st AD is stupid and scared. They don't even shoot at the 3rd ID soldiers down here now. They know the whole block will end up in jail or dead. Better them than us.
I'm doing fine. Reading, writing letters and in my journal (on my second volume now), pulling radio watch, throwing an Iraqi bayonet at a target. Yeah, a newfound sport/hobby I picked up here. It's actually quite relaxing.
Battalion's supposed to have quite the cook-out laid out today. At least the menu looks good. It's 0552 hours July 4th here. Well, that's about it for now. Thanks for all the letters, cards, prayers, goodies, etc. Will probably be back on in a few days. Paying $3/hour for internet use. Love you guys!

Getting bored with Baghdad,
Chris

Joyce, how do you invite someone to join our blog? Since I forwarded Chris' email to you, I guess you know that now at least some times, he'll be able to email. I would like for him to have a chance to join, a good way to see what is happening with our family and communicate with everyone at once. Since I'll be gone, could you take care of it for me. Thanks.

As you all know, I leave for Las Vegas on Saturday, 7/5. Here is the informaton where I'll be.
Fairfield Grand Desert
265 East Harmon Drive
Las Vegas, NV 89109

702-691-2600 or I'll also have my cell 757-537-6653.

I called Dad last night, Tuesday, and when I didn't get an answer, I left the message that I hoped that his not being home, meant that he was feeling good and was out playing. He called me back this morning and he had been out mowing his grass and said he felt great and was also feeling good this morning, like his old self. It was so nice hearing him talk. When we have our health, we seem to take it for granted, but after feeling bad, you could tell he was so glad to be alive and feeling well. In case I don't have another chance to post again before I leave, I'll be back from Las Vegas on Sunday, the 13th at 9:45 am, I'll be flying all night. It was cheaper that way. Happy 4th to all.

Happy Birthday to Terri. Tried to call to explain why you have not received your card. It is still in my purse. I got the card, called Gene to get the address so that I could mail it and found it tonight in my purse. Hope it was great.

We'll keep Cathy in our prayers.

We were in Elizabeth City on Sunday to visit with Mr. Belvin. Went to lunch at the Marina.

I've started printing from the blogger to send to Chris. When I did it last I realized that in my last blog I had repeated what I had already posted. Had forgotten that I had written about the visit before, oh well, I am 60. What can you expect.

Cathy's Mole Report

Cathy received the results of her mole removal today. The report said she had some high level (I forget the medical term) atypical cells and they will be removing the tissue around the mole area to remove all the atypical cells at a later date. Please remember her in your prayers and we will keep you updated.

Happy Birthday to Terri. Hope that things are well with you.

Had a nice visit with Dad yesterday. He seemed in fairly good spirits. Went by the see Sherlon at the hospital. He has had a setback as he had to have his gallbladder removed but he looked remarkably well considering all he has been through. Carolyn is worried because he has no appetite so therefore is eating very little. At some point in the future he will be going back to Greenville for physical therapy to try to regain his walking abilities (after the plate in his pelvic area fuses). Enjoyed my supper tonight. Corn from Ricky and squash and green onions from Jeremy and Cathy's garden (mostly Jeremy's). Will have my cucumbers tomorrow.