So Im here in the field in Yuma for the next 6 weeks in preparation for an upcoming deployment. With that said, I will be missing the memorial; I just wanted to say a couple things. Its hard to believe that it has been 10 years since this happened. And still today, our stay in Ramadi remains the most intense combat over a 7 month for any unit deployed to either Afghanistan or Iraq. This experience is something that is the foundation of many of the actions and decisions that I have made since the day Echo Co stepped foot in the Combat Outpost. I was fresh out of SOI before we deployed (maybe 3 weeks), as were many other Bastards. This was our first exposure to the fleet and it was one hell of one. This experience is something I rarely talk to people about...not because Im ashamed, rather its just something not many other people get (even other combat vets). And Im sure my feelings and thoughts arent too far off from what many of yours are. I have had many ups and downs, which once again, I know many of us have endured. But I have always had a Bastard to put me back on track. And I hope you know I am there for you when and if you ever need that from me. I became an Officer for a couple reasons...but the main reason was Lt Wroblewski. A damn great Officer who was my first exposure to what an Officer should be...and thats what motivated me to be where I am. I do my best to continue on what he started and to represent the Magnificent Bastards to the best of my ability. For those who can no longer speak who made the greatest sacrifice...but also those who were to my left and my right during some crazy times. And those who set me in the right path when I some times veered away. Since I will not be there, I just wanted to say all of this. As the Marines I had the honor to serve with in Ramadi, you will always mean a lot to me. And although I dont talk about it too much to too many people...it doesnt mean that it isnt important to me. I carry out my respect for what all of you did through the actions and the decisions I make as a leader. More than anything, I wouldnt be in the position I am now if it wasnt for Marines like Eric Smith or Jonathan Brown putting me in check or Theophilus Tor, amongst many others. Anyways, sorry to be on my soapbox. I wish I could be with you all and I just wanted to let you know that I will be with you in spirit. I work my tail off for my Marines because I want to represent the Bastards as much as I possibly can. It is something that I hold tight and that motivates me to be a better leader and person everyday. Who knows, maybe Ill sit them down next Sunday and tell them the significance of the date and the deployment. Not for anything other than for respect of what the Bastards did in Ramadi and the sacrifices that were made. I hope the Memorial helps heal some wounds that may have possibly been open for any of you. And that you have a beer or two for our brothers. Semper Fi
Posted on: Sun, 30 Mar 2014 09:26:28 +0000