Marcus War Changes Things: A Rambling (Updated)
March 10th, 2007 by Marcus
I've been slightly busy over the last few days. We've also been in and out of what is called River City (comm blackout due to the death of a service member). The time I've been in country has allowed me to reflect on a few things. I called this A Rambling because I'm likely to dart from here to there with little or no connection between topics.
First is the whole rear echelon thing I've seen thrown about several different places as of late. Many of you know I'm not a grunt, nor do I have a combat arms MOS. Why is there such a distinction between those outside the wire and those inside? Do we not all wear the same uniform? do we not all risk our lives in some fashion? I will admit that those going out on missions have a greater risk to their lives, but does that make you better than me?
War has certainly changed my consumption of news. I used to check headlines all throughout the day and try to catch a few blogs, but I find myself purposely avoiding them now. AFN has new coverage on in the chow hall and a big topic was been Walter Reed. I find myself finding the furthest table from the big screen TVs so I won't have to listen to it.
I also find myself not reading the political blogs that I deeply enjoy. I read them when I was in Kuwait and tried to once in country, but I just don't want to. I still care about what is going on in the world, but I don't think I could stomach the "news" on the war while here. It seems what I'm hearing about from those around me is a completely different war than what is being reported.
I've come to have a greater appreciation for the simple things in life. One of those going home and being able to yell, "Honey, I'm home." Or the sound of my truck firing up it's V8 engine. You know the sound; it's the one that sends chills down the spine of truck lovers.
I've also come to appreciate those around me. The unit we are relieving lost multiple Marines while here. I can't help but to look at the Marines walking through camp and around base and wonder if they will be on that plane home. I try my hardest not let those thoughts cross my mind. Perhaps they will fade as the coming weeks go by.
The most important thing I've learned so far is you've got to keep yourself busy. I have been doing just that and the days are quickly passing. Almost two weeks have passed and it seems like I just told my family good-bye. I know the next six and a half months will fly by as well.
Everyone take care.
Update: I've read all the comments and I thank all of you for your support, but I don't think this came across as I intended. I'm by no means "down" or anything like that. I'm in really high spirits, and so are all the people around me. I hope that clears up any doubt in your mind of how I'm doing.
Cpl M, stay busy, stay positive. Another box or two will be inbound in the next week or so. I'll try to find a sturdy candy dish to fill with goodies for your comrades. Keep an eye out for guys who look like they aren't getting any mail at mail call. I know it's early, but by the end of this month, you'll know who doesn't have Home Support. Let us know and we'll make sure you have cards and letters to hand out to them, ok? That will also make YOU feel good cuz you're the one who is gonna get to see the smiles.
Take care, hon. Stay safe.
Take care of yourself M and please tell those Marines that you are with something from me. Please tell them that we are behind them,that not every American believes the MSM trash,and that we pray for them.Stay safe!
I can only repeat what LL and Karen are saying. Take Care of Yourself, know that we're all thinking about everyone one of you and PROUD of all of you. Let us know if you need anything!
Marcus to me there is no distinction between those serving in the Rear and those who go outside the wire. If things aren't functioning correctly in the rear, then things are likely not to function well outside the wire when things get hairy. Every job out there, is an important piece in making the entire mission successful.
Cpl M, I've never been one to distinguish between those outside and inside the wire. No place in Iraq is "safe". You all wear the same uniform and you all serve our country. I'm thankful to all of you.
I echo what LL said. I'm going to start sending her those "Any Marine" letters for you to pass out (I'll start next week). You keep an eye out for who needs them!
Thank you.
M, this is one of the areas I've been harping on as an NCO for a LONG time. When I was back in Division and heard these comments, myself and the other staff would "blackball" this individual for about a week. Anytime they'd need something, we'd turn them away as if we weren't there. We told them that they got their wish and there were only "shooters" in the Army now. All the support people went away. No matter if it was pay issues, awards, performance reviews, meal card issues, or what. They had to do it themselves (which they couldn't do) or it didn't get done. After just a few days, they got the picture.
There's a statistic (in the Army at least) that it takes approximately 11 support guys to put on shooter on the battlefield. We're all Soldiers (or Marines in your case) and if the crap hit the fan and your camp was being overrun, would they want you to stay and process the paperwork they so loathe, or join in the fight? On the other end, would you continue your paperwork or join the fight? The answer is obvious – you'd pick up your gun and start slinging rounds through flesh.
The problem (again I speak for the Army) is that too many NCOs have the same attitude about "support" troops. Everyone has their mission it's all "one team, one fight". As NCOs, we need to instill in our troops the "one team" concept and that none of could survive without the rest. You're going to be receiving a lot of stuff in the mail. It may sound harsh, but withhold those items from those that carry this perception. For some it will only serve to prove their point, but others will get it. Thankfully, military supporters don't see the internal, idiotic politics of soldiering and won't make that distinction between shooters and so those people will still get support – just not from you.
Bottom line – you perform a vital role for the Marine Corps. There is purpose behind your presence on the battlefield. Talk to those guys and try to tell their story as well. Ask them if they'll share experiences from the "front lines" (whatever that means anymore) that they want to share. Maybe they want you to post a message to their families or the country. Finally, make yourself useful. Don't go out of your way to kiss ass, because that's not your job. We're all proud of your service, so stay motivated and "Army Strong"!! Hooah! hehe.
Bella and I are very VERY proud of you and we stand behind you 110%. You mean the world to us and we want you to return home and I promise we will still have your truck so that I still know every morning when you leave for work and every evening when you get home. Stay safe and we are all waiting your return home. (with dorky shirts and all!)
Even if we do hear of the internal problems, CJ, as military supporters we say "Love ya all anyway!"
You're as human as the next person and no one can control the choices of another.
Cpl M, we are all proud of you and pulling for you. I don't listen to the MSM news, for sure. Can't think of any reason to. I take as little politics as I can and still help to ensure that America is still here when you get back. (In fact there's plenty of people in politics these days for that very reason and not because they like it so much.)
Your idea of keeping busy is good. Stay safe. Love also to Anna (who may be watching) and the little one.
Hey, M! Good to hear from you. I think you've got the right stuff going for you. As a "paper-pusher" myself, I know how important the behind-the-scenes folks are in civvy life. Have to think that in your setting it's much more important. We're grateful and appreciative no matter what job you're doing! Just take good care.
Cpl M ~ God love ya! I know there is that notion about outside of the wire and all that, but that don't make no difference to this here Army Mom! And I know that it doesn't to those of us back home. I stood with more than 200 troop lovin' folks on Thursday holding you all close in our thoughts as we rallied on the Move America Forward caravan. And this was in moonbatish land here in CA!! There were over 300 in Sacramento. WE don't care where you plant your feet in the sand – outside the wire or inside.
I can't say what I really think about the media here – too many bad words!
I'd rather you all came home and we send over the worthless disgraceful politicians and not let them back until they get a clue!
So know that you are sooooo appreciated by soooo many!
We love ya!
And listen to CJ ~ he's spot on!
"I'd rather you all came home and we send over the worthless disgraceful politicians and not let them back until they get a clue!"
Oh, my Yankeemom sister, I couldn't have said it better myself! And as you all know, there are two politicians in particular that are at the top of my list for the first transport to the land of sand.
Godspeed Marcus!
CplM
Hang tough and stay busy. That's how my cousin made it through.
Dazd
We'll all be here for you M. We may not all wear the uniform but we are YOUR fobbits!! And we love you!!
Dude, what you're doing is vital… otherwise you wouldn't be there. You know it, they know it. You all have a necessary job to do.
I know how empathetic you are, and as you show that empathy & compassion toward the grunts, they will come to appreciate you, just as you appreciate them.
Express your gratitude to them just as we patriots back home would do given the opportunity. Shake their hand and tell them "My dad couldn't be here, so he asked me to give you a handshake for him."
Marine Dad, are you adopting children over 30?
CJ, if I can quit work and let them support me, sure!
Cpl M,
I just want to add my two cents and tell you that it is so good to read your posts and I'm glad that you are doing OK. Like the others have said, take care of yourself. You will be back and driving that truck before you know it! Our thoughts and prayers are with you!!
Devil Dog, I sure apprecate the Support Elements. It's always nice to get served a Hot Meal in a Chow Hall, or get a Ride to a Mission. Having Comm call in Grid coordinates on a Machine Gun or Mortar Nest. We used to take DaNang as a habit when it was getting rough. I remember going in once with a Marine Comm Unit and seizing the Airbase, once. The Soldiers were Chearing "Recon's Here!". I did not have the heart to tell them the were just saved by Support. What's my point? Every Marine is a Basic Rifleman. I've been to Combat with just about every MOS you can imagine. I trust Every One of those Marines with my safety. You are Appreciated, Mark. I'm Proud to state that. My Marines will always make me Proud. It's what we are, YOU INCLUDED! MGySgt Ric Douglas USMC Recon Scout Sniper Retired '68 – '92
((((hugs))))
Some unfortunate news… Cpl M called me this evening whilst I was wandering the aisles of Wal-Mart, relating that his computer has been commandeered. I don't know how often he will have access to another, or if the one he was using will be replaced soon.
Just so you know, in case his frequent posting is affected.
I wonder if I could send him a laptop?
I'd be careful of that, Marine Dad. That one might get commandeered too. 'Course I'm speaking as a civvy. If we wanted equipment to get where it was intended, it had to be hand carried by a willing volunteer (who just happened to have a plane ticket going to the right destination). Since that could be years, we got used to low tech solutions.
Well, there's always Old Fashioned Snail Mail. Is his Access through a Military LAN/WAN? There may be some type of Electronic Key or Software Protection Adapter, for Data Security. Hopefully you'll get another Landline Contact with Corporal M and find out.
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