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Pray for Soldiers in Iraq please put there names here and pray prayer
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Posted by: JG
IF YOU KNOW ANYONE IN IRAQ WILL YOU
PLEASE PUT THERE NAME HERE.
IF YOU CAN GET A PICTURE OF THEM PLEASE PUT IT HERE.
CALL TO PRAYER. LET'S PRAY FOR OUR SOLIDERS IN IRAQ.
LET'S PRAY FOR OUR MARINES IN IRAQ.
LET'S PRAY FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN IRAQ.
LET'S PRAY FOR OUR MOM'S AND DAD'S IN IRAQ
THIS IS A CRITICAL TIME AND THEY NEED YOUR PRAYERS.
LET'S SEE HOW MANY PEOPLE WE CAN STAND GUARD DUTY FOR IN JESUS NAME.
Posted by: akabezalel
Please add these men to the list...
Steve Cole - Transportation from Fort Lewis - Father of 4
Ken Urqhardt - Reservist from Fort Lewis - Father of 3 teens
Robert Cox - Special Forces - Father of 1
Father, You see these men and know the danger they are in, please protect my friends from harm, bring them home safe to their Families and Friends. Lord keep them close to You and let them be living witnesses to the other men and women around them in the war zone. Father, please stop the killing and murder. AMEN!
Posted by: Cindy Renee
Clay Bloyer Age 32. SSGT. 3/8 Calvary B Greenzone. Father of 4 children, and will soon have 3 step children.
Father, I lift your children up to now in the name of Jesus. There are so many Lord, and I thank you that you know them all by name. I pray Father that you would begin to pour your spirit out over the nations. I pray that miracles would begin to manifest themselves as never before. I pray that you would keep your children under your wing Lord, and start bringing them home safely. Walk with them through these storms my Father. Do not leave one along the roadside my Lord. Minister to their very souls Father and bring your children home. In the precious name of Jesus! AMEN.
Posted by: bluecatkeeper
My husband will be there next week for a deployment. Please include him.
Mike Jones USAF
Posted by: ninababy73
Please add:
Henry Smith, 26, US Army Reserves.
Posted by: Sulten
Lt. j.g. David Hardy is a damage-control and small-boats officer on the guided missile destroyer Russell.Lt. j.g. David Hardy, a damage-control and small-boats officer on the guided missile destroyer Russell, was among the Navy personnel who rescued the crew of an Air Force B-1 bomber that developed equipment problems and ditched in the Indian Ocean on the night of Dec. 12. Hardy is one of eight children, all of whom graduated from Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, Va. His parents, Richard and Marianne, live in Falls Church, Va.
Dear Family and Friends,
Last night I was witness to a true miracle. Around 10 p.m., a B-1 bomber with a crew of four went down about 100 miles north of Diego Garcia. One of the pilots was talking on his radio from a survival raft, so we knew that at least one had survived. It took us about an hour to race north as close as we could get to the crash site. They had gone down over a shallow bank, so our ship had to stand off about seven miles away.
We put the small boats in the water. As we headed away from the ship, there were three things I’ll always remember — the eerie smell of jet fuel in the water, the magnificent number of stars in the sky and a confidence that everything would be all right.
We didn’t see the light until we were about a mile away and came upon two pilots sitting in their survival rafts. Right about the same time, we spotted another strobe. As we hauled them up into the boat, one of them greeted us calmly: “Hey guys, thanks for coming. It’s good to see you.”
The other boat picked up the third guy, and we were told to bring the three back to the ship. On the way, and just as we were about to pass him, the fourth pilot lit off his flare just long enough to be noticed, and we located him a couple of minutes later using night-vision goggles. He was the one who had been talking on his radio the whole time. The pilots had ejected from their plane at 17,000 feet, upside down, falling at 300 knots and landed spread out in shallow water in the middle of nowhere.
Our boats were guided right to the downed pilots. They were in rough shape but amazingly composed. By 2 a.m., four hours after the crash, all were onboard the USS Russell. It had to be a miracle. Finding that fourth pilot, and being able to tell buddies that their whole crew was safe, was just about the best feeling in the whole world. That moment made all of this worthwhile. I wanted to share it.
Hope all’s well with everyone at home.
P.S. Mom and Dad, I had the rosary and Saint Christopher medal in my chest pocket and I have no doubt that they helped.
God bless,
Dave
Posted by: Sulten
Just wanted to share some of the choice letter of our men and women laying their lives on the line and join in the prayers...
Command Master Chief (SW/AW) J.D. McKinney III, was just getting settled into a new house with his wife and children when the call to action came. He had just been transferred Sept. 7 to Norfolk from the Chicago area and shipped out on the guided missile destroyer Oscar Austin.
Dear Charla,
I know this deployment is a sad occasion, but I remember how we felt on 9/11 and how those events drew us closer together. It sure makes you appreciate family much more.
One of the outcomes of this whole ordeal is the feeling of urgency I got as an American fighting man — a call to arms, a desire to do what I have trained to do in my 19 years in the military.
The children have a right to grow up as you and I did, carefree. Others before me have ensured our freedoms, and now it’s my turn to stand on the wall.
The American way of life must be defended. I must do this, to bring honor to my Navy and my country.
I love you.
Love,
J.D. III
Posted by: Sulten
Marine Corps Reserve Lt. Col. Tom D. Barna, 45-year-old father of three, spent eight months in the Persian Gulf when his son, Alex, was just 2. In October, he was called away again from his home in Eagle Lake, Minn., to deploy, just as his son, now 12, was picking up golf and weightlifting, two of his father’s favorite pastimes. Barna plans a family trip to Las Vegas when he returns.
Dear Son,
Right up front, let me tell you that I love you, I am proud of you, and I am safe. It’s hard to believe I am over here again! When I left the desert 10 years ago, at the conclusion of the Gulf War, I just never thought I would be here again. When I was here last time, I was an active-duty captain in the Marine Corps. This time I return as a lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps Reserve.
I’ve joked with your mom about not being sure which was worse — leaving her alone with three babies [during the Gulf War] or leaving her behind with three teenagers. I can still hear her laughing.
Son, my deployment seems a little more personal this time. As you know, it was our nation that was attacked. It was our people who died. And this fire has been brewing for quite a while. I think all Americans are finally ready to rid the world of men bent on imposing their evil will. This time it’s different … this time we just won’t take it! This time we finish the fight.
I will be honest with you: Nothing in my life is greater than serving the Corps, God and country. But I am here for another reason, too — a reason that personally motivates me. I am here so you won’t one day have to come back and finish something we didn’t take care of here and now.
Your grandpa served in Korea and in Southeast Asia and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. He fought so that I could live in a world of peace … and men and women like him ended the Cold War. Now it’s my turn, along with men and women of my time. We must be at war, to once and for all bring a time where our children — that’s you, Alex — can live in a world of real peace.
This one is for you!
I so very much miss you, your sisters and your mom. I’ll be home soon. We’ll all be home soon. In the meantime, I will pray for you and dream of you often.
Love,
Dad
Posted by: Sulten
Dear Father in Heaven, we have been asked to pray for all those serving in Iraq and around the world to preserve our ways of live, our freedoms, the things we so often take for granted. I lift my prayers to Thee in accordance with this request. I pray for every soldier, in every walk of service, that the strength of Thy holy spirit will pervade their lives and they will be surrounded by Holy Angels to protect and guard and lift their spirits. I pray for the power of our prayers will be felt and touch many lives and that many of our soldiers will have a chance to come unto Thee and accept the Atoning Sacrifice into their hearts and souls and be counted in Thy flock. I pray for comfort to all those families who have lost and made the ultimate sacrifice. I pray that they may be healed and comforted in the blood of the Lamb. I pray that You move mightily upon the hearts of all the Christians in the world and especially on this website to post a prayer here for the spiritual mental and physical well being and safety of our soldiers in Iraq and around the world. In Jesus Holy Name amen.
Josue Moses Valdez Our friend, and brother in Christ,
enlisted in the Marines in June 2002.
We pray for him every night while he is away.
Posted by: akabezalel
OOPS! Steve and Ken are home! 
Thank You Father for bringing them home SAFE and WHOLE!
Steve Cole - Transportation from Fort Lewis - Father of 4
Ken Urqhardt - Reservist from Fort Lewis - Father of 3 teens
Robert is still there and I just found out another friend is there.
Robert Cox - Special Forces - Father of 1
Roger Kohls - Contractor - Father of 3 boys.
Father, Please bring my Friends and all the other Troops home safe to their Families! Stop the bloodshed. AMEN!
Posted by: whome?
please pray for a really good freind of mine .his name is
Brandon Morgan
I dont know his current duties but I do know he is in tikrit he was sent there 2 weeks ago.thank you remembering in your prayers
Posted by: MamaMoreno
Please pray for:
Eddie Rojas, and his unit; "Blackhorse" (they just left from Ft. Irwin, CA) approximately a week ago
Mike Brooks(my brother-in-law); my sister sheila and my niece "Breezy" are in germany and they just found out she is pregnant with their second child.
Posted by: Sulten
LCpl Tony Moody will be deployed up to 545 days. Pray he will be strong, courageous and not anxious. He desires to be a man of integrity who represents God.
Keep TSgt Wendi Drusch and her husband (both active duty) in prayer. She is in Iraq at the 332nd EOG Mosul Army Airfiled with air traffic controllers from all over.
Please pray for Chaplain Luis Kruger in Afghanistan: he says, "I have received the Rapid Deployment Kits. Although this will be a hard year, I believe there will be many opportunities to share the gospel."
ENS Rob Bocek is serving with the U.S. Navy Seals in Iraq. Ask the Lord for a hedge of protection on him and his team.
Lift up in prayer Col Scott Bethel who is serving in Iraq.
Lift up SGT Scott Sanders and his wife Gina, and their three sons. Scott moves supplies from Kuwait to Baghdad. Along with military responsiblities he is organizing Bible studies and working with the Chaplains.
Deana LaRoche asks prayers for her nephew SGT Frank LaRoche IV who is in Iraq. He needs to know the Lord.
Dear Father in Heaven, I stand in prayer for all the U.S. troops who remain in Iraq to support Iraqi security forces. I pray for their continual protection and strength. I pray for every need posted on this thread. Please help SGT LaRoche that he may find Thee over there in Iraq. I pray he will have a chance to put his life in order. I pray for the chaplains that are organizing that the gospel can go forth under their stewardships. I pray for their success in bringing souls to Thee. I pray for the people of Iraq. I pray for a future of hope, stability, peace, and democracy in Iraq. I pray for all those who mourn at the loss of a loved ones. I pray that they may come to know Thee and receive comfort and strength and purpose and peace. I ask that a hedge of protection be upon our men and women serving in our Armed Forces throughout the world. In Jesus Holy Name amen.
Posted by: Sulten
Please pray for the family and fellow comrades who lost six of their fellow infantry soldiers last week in Iraq.
Vilseck community honors fallen comrades
The Vilseck military community gathered Monday at the Vilseck Chapel to say farewell to six Task Force 2-2 Infantry soldiers who died in Iraq last week. With many welcome home banners hung on fences along the post’s main road —
for some soldiers who have returned and others that are expected to return in February — nearly 400 community members filled the chapel to honor their fallen comrades.
Ben Murray / Stars and Stripes
Soldiers bow their heads in honor of six fellow Vilseck servicemembers killed in Iraq last week. The men were remembered in an emotional service at the Vilseck Chapel on Monday.
Posted by: MarkSentMe
Due to security reasons, I can only post the first names, but I will post the branch of service:
Scott B, Army stationed in Germany, currently deployed to Iraq. He comes home this month, THANK GOD!
Paul C, Army, FT Lewis, currently deployed to Afghanistan
Ian N, Army stationed in Germany, currently deployed for the second time, in Iraq.
James D, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
John A, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
Wes C, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
Jack, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
Oscar, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
Rob W, Army, stationed in Germany, currently on deployment in Iraq. He returns this month. THANK GOD!!
Posted by: Sulten
I rise before dawn and cry for help; I wait for Thy words. My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word. Ps. 119:147-148
Again I say to you, that if two or three agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst. Matthew 18:19-20
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perserverance and petition for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18
If... My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
________________________________
The 56th Brigade Combat Team has joined the global war on terrorism as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. On Saturday Jan 1, 2005, over 30,000 people showed their support for the 3,000 soldiers of the 56th BCT during an historic "send off" celebration in Waco, Texas.
A family takes time to honor Soldiers of the 56th Brigade Combat Team, 36th Infantry Division, during a sendoff ceremony held in their honor at Baylor University’s Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, Texas. The call-up of approximately 3,000 Texas citizen-soldiers for Operation Iraqi Freedom is the largest mobilization in the state’s history since World War II. After half a century, the 36th ID (formerly the 49th Armored Division) was reactivated to help transform the Texas Army National Guard into a more mobile and lethal fighting force that will see a new generation of “T-Patchers” committed to helping fight the war on terrorism and carry on the proud legacy established by their predecessors. (Army photo by Master Sgt. Lek Mateo, 56th Brigade Public Affairs Office)
Texas National Guard Soldiers keep the faith
By Master Sgt. Lek Mateo
56th Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office
Texas Army National Guard
CAMP VICTORY, Kuwait — A chorus of hymns echoed across the sandy ground and through the rows of neatly lined tents as Soldiers of the 56th Brigade Combat Team, 36th Infantry Division, joined other Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines during the Sunday worship service at the camp chapel.
The chapel was simply a large open tent just like the others and had no steeple or stained-class windows, but for the Soldiers who filled the rows of fold-out chairs that substituted for the wooden pews, that did not matter.
What mattered was that it was place where they are able to worship according to their religious beliefs. The service also allowed them to share the fellowship and the bond that they have with the other U.S. military from other units who also sought spiritual guidance and peace from the chaplain in his sermon.
For many of the Soldiers, the Sunday service is a cherished reminder of times back at home when they regularly attended church with their families and friends.
And for some Soldiers who are heading for Iraq, attending worship this day gave them a chance to reflect on the difficult and dangerous mission ahead.
Chaplain (Maj.) J. Craig Combs emphasized that it is important to allow Soldiers the time and place to practice their religious faith to promote their spiritual well being and, no matter where they are, ‘anywhere and everywhere’ is a great place to worship.
“Going into combat, these Soldiers are reminded even more vividly that they need to have their peace made with God and their loved ones and family,” Major Combs said.
The major added that he and the other chaplains and their assistants, who represent various faiths, are available anywhere and anytime and will try to reach out to Soldiers no matter where they are -- even on the battlefield -- to provide them with worship services and spiritual guidance.
2nd Lt. Scott M. Nelles explained that religious faith not only gives Soldiers something to believe in, but most of all, gives them hope.
Lieutenant Nelles acknowledged that he may have to lead Soldiers into combat in Iraq and that he will have to make moral and ethical decisions that will impact the mission and the lives of others. He said he is confident that he will make the right decisions based on his beliefs and strong spiritual foundation.
“When you apply God’s principles in your life, you know that you are making the right decisions and doing the right thing,” Lieutenant Nelles said.
Pfc. Nicolas J. Spencer knew in his heart that he was ready to commit himself to his lord and savior Jesus Christ as he stepped into a large tub and submerged himself in the ice-cold water to receive his baptism.
Private Spencer said he has always wanted to be closer to God and, after 13 years, decided to be baptized on this day in the presence of his fellow Soldiers as a testament to his faith.
The private added that it is really important for him to be allowed to practice his religious belief because, if he didn’t have any faith in God, he wouldn’t have anything to believe in.
Private Spencer said he prays for the safety of every Soldier in his unit everyday, especially the ones who have families, as they prepare to go into Iraq in the next few days. He knows the mission will be tough and dangerous but is confident that his battle buddies and his faith will get him through the difficult times.
“I feel better and closer to God than I ever have and that I will come back home by his grace.”
Posted by: Sulten
Making a difference in Iraq one step at a time
Schoolchildren greet Maj. Brian P. Stevens (right) of the 56th Brigade Combat Team, Texas Army National Guard, and Capt. Adil B. Elnour of the 197th Field Artillery Brigade, New Hampshire National Guard, during their visit to the newly completed schoolhouse in Abu Tabor, Iraq. (Army photo by Master Sgt. Lek Mateo, 56th Brigade Public Affairs Office)
Making a difference in Iraq one step at a time ‘Soldiers help plant the seeds of freedom’ By Master Sgt. Lek Mateo 56th Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office Texas Army National Guard TALLIL, Iraq — Capt. Adil B. Elnour, an artillery officer of the New Hampshire National Guard’s 197th Field Artillery Brigade, used to measure the success of his mission by hitting a target located miles away with a high-explosive shell fired from his big guns. Today he measures the success of his job in Iraq as a civil affairs officer by the number of smiles he and the Soldiers in his unit receives as they visit small villages and towns located in the Euphrates Valley where they are helping the destitute people rebuild their lives. He acknowledged that the change from his traditional duties as an artillery battery officer to a CA officer has been very rewarding. Instead of destroying targets down range, he now finds himself overseeing the construction of 11 schools, coordinating medical aide to local clinics and distributing goods donated by the American people to the Iraqis. “As artillerymen, our happiness comes from hitting the target, but here in Iraq our happiness comes from being able to give people a chance to rebuild their lives,” Captain Elnour said. The captain shares a common bond with the proud Iraqi people whom he has come to know with fondness and respect for their courage and self-determination over the last year that he has worked with them. A Sudanese immigrant who came to the U.S. with his parents when he was only 10 years old, Captain Elnour speaks the Arabic language fluently and understands the Muslim culture -- which is why he was chosen as a brigade CA officer and assigned the responsibility for fostering a relationship with the community and assessing its needs. Captain Elnour said he will miss all the friends he made here when he and the other Soldiers of his unit return home within the next couple of weeks after their one-year deployment. He explained that just being able to help the less fortunate people in a small way, especially the children who he said are the future of Iraq, gives him the satisfaction of knowing he made a difference in their lives. “The Iraqi children are the generation that we need to help,” Captain Elnour said. “They are the future of Iraq.” Sgt. Neil I. Mitchell has logged thousands of miles as a gun-truck commander, escorting convoys and conducting security patrols along the dangerous highways and back roads of Iraq over the last 11 months. The seasoned non-commissioned officer said he sees poverty and despair every time he leaves the gates of the camp on his many missions and acknowledged that he can’t help but feel empathy and compassion for the children who have so little and have suffered so much. He does have hope for the children and knows that the positive impression which he and the other Soldiers are making on the day they hand out shoes during their patrol will be a lasting one. “I know that right now with the children, we are sowing the seed for the future generation of Iraqis to look at Americans in a better way, “Sergeant Mitchell said. Ensuring that the hard-earned trust and strong relationship developed between Soldiers of the 197th Field Artillery Brigade and the Iraqi communities in the area is maintained will rest on the shoulders of Maj. Brian P. Stevens. A CA officer of the 56th Brigade Combat Team, 36th Infantry Division, Texas Army National Guard, he will take over the CA projects from the New Hampshire Guardsmen when they return home. The rolling hills of central Texas that Major Stevens’ calls home is worlds away from the flat and desolate marshland where several small pockets of towns and villages dot the barren landscape that will be his new residence for the next 12 months. Major Stevens said he was touched after seeing the squalid living conditions firsthand during an orientation ride with his counterpart. He added that he and the Soldiers of the 56th BCT are ready for the challenging mission ahead and looking forward to going out into the communities to start helping their new neighbors. —30—
Submitted by: Master Sgt. Lek Mateo, 56th Brigade Public Affairs Office2/2/2005 8:29:17 AM
Posted by: Sulten
'Holy Devil' brings faith to soldiers in Iraq
By LACHELLE SEYMOUR
Advocate Reporter 
Submitted photo Chaplain Sam Bowersock, or "Holy Devil Chappy," of Newark, preaches to soldiers in Iraq. Bowersock, a 1992 alumnus of Licking County Christian Academy, has been preaching to soldiers abroad since September.
NEWARK -- In February, he was accepted. He trained in March. July meant jump school. By September, Sam Bowersock was in Iraq.
It was quick. For his wife Leona. For his parents. For him.
But now Bowersock, a Newark native and Army chaplain, is stationed near Fallujah with the 1-504 82nd Airborne -- also known as the Red Devils. To his men, he's "Holy Devil Chappy," or "Chappy" for short.
Because he is a chaplain, he does not carry a weapon. However, he has a goal: to uplift his fellow troops through fatigue, through memorial services, through missions that he regularly goes on with other soldiers.
"(I hoped) just that he would be able to get to know the men and encourage them and be with them, whether it's in Iraq or here on post or out in the field or in church, just so he could be there for them," Leona said. "If he sat behind a desk in an office, they wouldn't know who he was."
The 1992 graduate of Licking County Christian Academy is quiet, but likes to play jokes, said his mother, Sharon. Before he was born, Sharon knew her son would be surrounded by miracles.
"He was backwards in my stomach," Sharon said. "My husband put his hands on my stomach and prayed, and he flipped over."
Then, when Sam was 16, his Mustang blew a tire on his way home. The car was totaled after the accident, but Sam, now 29, was not hurt.
In Iraq, while Sam was riding in a small convoy, a rocket-propelled grenade landed in one of the group's trucks.
It landed in an ammunition box, but never exploded.
"There have been a couple of instances like those when he just knew that prayers at home are really making a difference," Leona said.
Sharon and Mike's home has a soothing, calm air. The family recently decorated it for the holiday season.
Amidst the red-and-green candles, a small stuffed, camouflaged bear with "ARMY" emblazoned on the chest is perched on the edge of the television. One of Sam's drawings hangs on the wall.
In Fayetteville, N.C., Leona plans to decorate the home she and her husband moved into shortly before he left. She also volunteers and works with early preschoolers with special needs for Cumberland County Schools.
She dreams of the trip she and her husband will take to Hawaii when he gets home. "We had our honeymoon to Hawaii," Leona said.
Meanwhile, in Iraq, her husband tells Bible studies, is working to hand out 90 pounds of Scripture Candy that Leona's parents sent him and keeps smiling.
"What Sam wants to do over there is to be there for the men and to do what they need," Sharon said. "To be able to do what God wants."
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Posted by: Sulten
These are Marines currently serving in Iraq. For me personally the names that have been posted here brings emotions of pride. Each Marine is someboy's son or daughter worthy of our respect, our pride, our devotion, and a never ending stream of support, love, and prayers.
Walter Rollo Father, Walter
Brian K. Parents, Keith and Marti
Bradley Scott (Scottie) Parents, Nick and Penny
Sam W. Mother Dorothy
Zachary John Parents, David and Audrey
Kyle Parents, Brent and Debbie
Johnathan Earl (Woody) Mother Wendy
Pascal (Buddy) Parents, Hans and Uli
Jon C. Parents Mark and Chris
Dear Father in Heaven, I lift these names of our service men and women posted on this site and all those who names are not listed here but serving in our Armed Foreces throughout the world, and in Iraq. Especially all of those who every day risk there all and are in harms way. I pray for the families who wait anxiously for word of their son or daughter every day, every moment worrying how they are and if they're safe. I pray that You would place a hedge of protection around our soldiers and send Thy Angels forth to guard and protect from harms way. I pray that this mission of restoration and peace can go forth and the more part of the people will accept democracy and the foundation where they can worship according to the dictates of their own conscious. I pray for the bringing down of tyrants who oppress and try through the means of violence to instigate fear and compulsion. Keep our soldiers from harm and facilitate them to accomplish their work and missions. I ask in Jesus Holy Name amen.
Posted by: Sulten
Little Girl Saves Marine Patrol From Mine
Category: US Political
I just wanted to share this email with everyone. This came from Mark tonight. What an incredible story to tell. I pray that you will share this email with others to show what kind of impact our military service men and women are truly having in Iraq. A special thank you to Debbie Jacks, she is Mark's brother's wife's mother!, she sent over several boxes of toys/stuffed animals to Mark for the Iraqi children. This little girl was holding a bear she sent, how do we know? Mark said it was an Ohio beanie baby, and she sent over lots and lots of them. So thank you very much, your simple gift easily saved the life of my husband and many other Marines. Thank you Debbie for your heart, and for children who may never see until you see them in heaven. Read the story and you'll see why!
In His Grip,
Colleen Francis
Honored wife of GySgt Mark Francis USMC
December 12th, 2004
An email from a Marine back from patrol in Iraq:
email from an old 1SG | GySgt Mark
Posted on 12/18/2004 11:56:16 AM PST by ASA Vet
Just wanted to write to you and tell you another story
about an experience we had over here.
As you know, I asked for toys for the Iraqi children over here and several
people (Americans that support us) sent them over by the box.
On each patrol we take through the city, we take as many toys as will
fit in our pockets and hand them out as we can.
The kids take the toys and run to show them off as if they were worth a million bucks.
We are as friendly as we can be to everyone we see,
but especially so with the kids.
Most of them don't have any idea what is going on and are completely innocent in all of this.
On one such patrol, our lead security vehicle stopped in the middle of the street.
This is not normal and is very unsafe, so the following vehicles
began to inquire over the radio.
The lead vehicle reported a little girl sitting in the road
and said she just would not budge.
The command vehicle told the lead to simply go around her and to be kind as they did.
The street was wide enough to allow this maneuver
and so they waved to her as they drove around.
As the vehicles went around her, I soon saw her sitting there and in her
arms she was clutching a little bear that we had handed her a few patrols back.
Feeling an immediate connection to the girl, I radioed that we were going to stop.
The rest of the convoy paused and I got out the make sure she was OK.
The little girl looked scared and concerned, but there was a warmth in her eyes toward me.
As I knelt down to talk to her, she moved over and pointed to a mine in the road.
Immediately a cordon was set as the Marine convoy assumed a defensive posture around the site.
The mine was destroyed in place.
It was the heart of an American that sent that toy.
It was the heart of an American that gave that toy to that little girl.
It was the heart of an American that protected that convoy from that mine.
Sure, she was a little Iraqi girl and she had no knowledge of purple mountain's majesty or fruited plains.
It was a heart of acceptance, of tolerance, of peace and grace,
even through the inconveniences of conflict that saved that convoy from hitting that mine.
Those attributes are what keep Americans hearts beating.
She may have no affiliation at all with the United States,
but she knows what it is to be brave and if we can continue to support her
and her new government, she will know what it is to be free.
Isn't that what Americans are, the free and the brave?
If you sent over a toy or a Marine (US Service member) you took part in this.
You are a reason that Iraq has to believe in a better future.
Thank you so much for supporting us and for supporting our cause over here.
Semper Fi,
Mark
GySgt / USMC
Posted by: Sulten
Soldier's Prayers Answered in Iraq
Soldier Relies on God for Victory in Iraq
By Angie Vineyard
A stack of fan mail sits in his parents' dining room largely untouched, not because he doesn't appreciate it but because he hasn't had time to go through it. Addressed simply to Captain Chris Carter in Watkinsville, Georgia, the letters give no more of an address than a child's letter to Santa Claus at the North Pole. Yet the postman knows where to deliver them. The postman probably knows Chris, as does the whole town of Watkinsville, watching him grow up before their eyes. But then the war in Iraq began and Capt. Carter, an army Ranger, was thrust into the national spotlight after rescuing an injured Iraqi woman from a bridge under heavy gunfire while commanding Attack Company, or A Company of the 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment. All of a sudden, this 31-year-old University of Georgia fan with a Southern drawl who loves to hunt, fish and sing Hank Williams Jr. songs to keep his men alert became a hero.
It's not a label he likes. In fact, he runs from it – faster than he ran towards Baghdad with his 120-man company. Carter led his men on the front lines of what turned out to be the fastest, deepest attack by an invading army in military history.
But before the war began, before the first missile was dropped or the first shots were fired, Carter developed three PCP's or "Pre-combat Prayers." He prayed that his family would know where he was while in Iraq, that all of his men would make it home alive, and that he would have the opportunity to share his Christian faith with all of his men.
Prayer runs deep in his family.
"Some nights I'd wake up seven, eight, nine times," said Mike Carter of his son's deployment. "Every time I woke up, I'd pray."
His mother, Shirley, said that several days before her son rescued the elderly Iraqi woman, God was trying to tell her Chris would be involved in a rescue and to pray for protection.
"I prayed a lot," she said, "but I never succumbed to fear because God said I could have either faith or fear."
Carter had no inclination he would be involved in a rescue. His mission was to draw Iraqi forces south in Hindiyah, a town of 80,000 some 80 kilometers south of Baghdad, by taking a bridge and searching the police station. Once Attack Company rolled into town March 31, Iraqi fighters in civilian clothes opened fire while cars thought to be laden with explosives encircled the Bradley armoured vehicles.
Having been shot through the rear, the elderly Iraqi woman signaled Attack Company for help and then went limp. The woman later told an interpreter she was shot by an Iraqi.
"We thought she'd died," recalls Carter. Then "she sat up and waved at us…we had to get her out of there."
Half a world away, Shirley Carter was praying for her son.
Carter and a couple of soldiers moved onto the bridge, calling a medic for help. Iraqi gunfire intensified as medics came and placed the woman on a stretcher while Carter provided cover with his M16A4 rifle.
"I didn't hear a single shot fired while I was on the bridge," says Carter, believing his mother's prayers were responsible. "God's hand was protecting us."
And an embedded Associated Press reporter and photographer were capturing the entire event. The next day, this young soldier made headlines the world over. From the Belfast Telegraph to the Manila Bulletin, Carter was a hero. The Army thought so too, awarding him the Silver Star. Yet Carter still shies away from the spotlight, calling the honor "a reflection of the job my soldiers did and not me personally."
Chris endears himself to thousands of UGA fans
by unfurling the school flag on Fox News.As for his first PCP, U.S. newspaper articles quoted Carter almost daily, enabling his family to track his whereabouts perhaps more so than any other soldier's family in the war. On Feb. 17, CNN anchor Bill Hemmer interviewed Carter in the Kuwaiti desert on military maneuvers. On March 31, pictures of the daring bridge rescue ran in newspapers across the world while U.S. news stations headlined their broadcasts with Carter's bravery. On April 8, Attack Company rode into central Baghdad en route to the New Presidential Palace. On April 10, a Fox news crew captured Carter and another soldier unfurling a University of Georgia flag outside one of Saddam's palaces while two days later, Carter and his men marveled at the collective editions of military weapons found in a Baghdad home. On April 16, Attack Company uncovered Saddam's "love shack" with shag carpet and paintings of topless women and serpents.
His second PCP was answered in early August. Carter had been redeployed on June 20 to serve a 3-year assignment as a liaison officer with the Georgia Army National Guard. On August 11, his men returned home to Fort Stewart, Georgia, the only casualty being a finger lost by Staff Sgt. William Gilliam of Hamburg, Ala.
Before leaving his men in Iraq, Carter called a voluntary formation prior to his change of command ceremony. Those that had guard duty got someone to cover for them so that his entire company could hear what their commanding officer had to say. Carter stood before the men he fought beside and shared his testimony about how a relationship with God had made a difference in his life.
"Every prayer request was answered 100 percent," said Carter. "We shouldn't put limits on prayer."
Combat had its own lessons for Carter. "When there are trials in your life, you tend to turn to God more. You realize 'I can't do that on my own.' Back in America we think 'I don't need God' but He is so important to our life." "Despite (our) training and despite the actions of the men, there's no way we could do what we did without God and His protection."
Posted by: pickone
Thank You Lord, for hearing and answering the prayers of the soldiers and their families, and for giving them the right words to pray at the right times. Hallelujah! We love You, Lord! Keep every person whose names are listed here and whose names will soon be listed here safe and secure in Your heart. In Jesus' Name we ask. Amen.
Posted by: Cindy Renee
Jay, dont know last name, met for the first time at church yesterday.
Posted by: Sulten
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray all the men and women serving throughout the world in our Armed Forces and in Iraq. I pray that You would send angels to minister to them and have charge over their protection. I pray that You would bless them spiritually to turn to Thee in righteousness and seek Thee with all their hearts, minds and souls. Let these men and women find their strength and solace in Thee. Comfort and bless those who have paid the ultimate price and lost loved ones. Help them to hang onto their faith and hope. Heal them from the pain they feel of their loss. Bless them for their sacrifices. I pray also for a mighty revival in Iraq that the way prepared for religious tolerance and freedoms to prevail and Christianity to fill the hearts and minds of the people and cover their lands. I pray for a miracle in Iraq through our soliders and ask in Jesus Holy Name amen.
Posted by: MarkSentMe
Dear God,
Please watch over and protect Phil, my neighbor and friend from next door. He left for Iraq last week, leaving behind 4 children and his new wife. Please bring him home safely. Thank You,
Sharyn
Posted by: Christian Commando
Lord- I pray for these troops. As you have already demonstrated, you can move to protect our soldiers as necessary. Please continue doing this, watching over and protecting each new group as they change over. In Jesus Name- Amen!!
Posted by: JeriRose12
Lord, I pray our military may return from Iraq soon, safe and sound. Keep protection around all of them fighting over there. Let this prayer reach those whoes names are not known to any prayer warriors; whoes names are not on the Trinity Broadcasting wall, whoes family or friends do not pray for them. I keep falling short of praying for them EVERY day. Dear Lord, let my prayers reach now to each one with NO-ONE who is praying for them and let it cover all who are already prayed for as well.
I pray the Iraqi soldiers are well trained, so they can defend and protect their own country, so our troops may return home. Le the Iraqi troops be given the skill and knowledge and the help from God to fight the insurgents and keep them in control. Let the insurgents be captured and brought to justice, Lord. Let them be conatinaed. They say that more insurgents are coming in from other countries, and that's why it's so hard to contain them. Lord, intervene so our troops can pull out. Stop the insurgent flare ups, and let peace come to Iraq.
Please, Lord, let our troops ALL be able to leave Iraq SOON! In Jesus Name, amen.
~JeriRose~
Finding YOU in 2005 
