Here's an update on efforts in Iraq's Al Anbar province:
Read about (and see photos of) what Spirit of America is doing to assist our servicemembers and the people oppressed by Islamo-fascism here. They are truly what America is all about and are well worthy of any charitable giving you may be doing this holiday season.BILL ROGGIO EMBEDDED IN IRAQ - MSG FROM FALLUJAH
Bill Roggio is a journalist embedded with the Marines in Al Anbar, Iraq. He's been meeting with some of the Marines Spirit of America has helped. Bill's blog is here. Following is a message from Bill after his meeting with Marines Major Britt Rosenberry:
Since Fallujah was wrested from the control of al-Qaeda and the insurgency in November of 2004, the Coalition and Iraq government have worked to restore security and basic services the warn-torn city. Major Britt Rosenberry, stationed in Camp Fallujah, has 3-man teams who patrol with the Army and Marine Infantry throughout the entire Al Anbar Province. They interact with the citizens and concerned with their plight.This generation of kids are the key to Iraq's future success. Al-Qaeda and the insurgency has been conducting a "Taliban-like campaign" to close down schools, keep children uneducated. They harass and intimidate principals (called headmasters) and teachers. This year, a headmaster was kidnapped in front of the students and later assassinated.
One of Major Rosenberry's highest priorities is the children. They are highly susceptible to insurgent propaganda, and ripe for recruitment by the insurgents. "Schools are easy targets," said Major Rosenberry. "The Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army patrol the city, but are not always providing overwatch to fixed locations." To counter the intimidation of al-Qaeda closing schools, they are secretly opened in homes. But this comes at a cost. Some children may travel up to two hours a day for two hours of instruction. And the provincial schools, whether they are established or clandestine, need supplies. School books, notebooks, pens pencils and other school items are in short supply.
To fill this need, Major Rosenberry asked for help from home. "Don't send the fat pill," the care package filled with candy, Major Rosenberry told friends and family back home. "Send us notebooks and pens."
Not only do the school supplies help the Iraq children, but they help to defeat al-Qaeda and insurgency. "When fighting an information war, it is important to back up words with actions," said Major Rosenberry. Providing the school supplies allows the Coalition and Iraqi security forces to live up to their commitment to keeps schools open. The mission also introduces the children to the Iraqi security forces and U.S. soldiers and Marines. "They get to see we are human. They laugh, we makes jokes. We take off the gear and by the time we leave we're exchanging hugs. When we return, they recognize us."
While we can help the Spirit of America assist our military in changing the future of people oppressed, we can also appreciate the present. The gift given so freely by those in uniform should never go unappreciated. There is an old saying that we can give "time, talent, or treasure" to causes about which we care deeply. For those of us who are short on treasure this year, here is a great opportunity to support our troops during the holidays: Send a thank you card. "Let's Say Thanks" will send a free postcard from you to US military personnel stationed overseas showing your support and appreciation for their service to our country. It's another way you can support our servicemembers as they support you. It's free of charge and means so much.
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