Military Appreciation

The Pentagon Channel's own MSgt Rusty Barfield sits down with Tiger Woods to discuss his upcoming tournament and his Army veteran dad, Earl Woods, who served two combat tours in Vietnam.

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'Army Wives' Cast Works to Create Realistic Military Parallel

The cast of Lifetime Network's top-rated series, "Army Wives," spent May 5, 2008, on Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., filming the fourth episode of season two. Nearly 200 extras, mostly military family members, got the chance to be part of the show that's about their lives. (Defense Department photo/Samantha L. Quigley)

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. - Drama can occasionally creep into the lives of military families, but since last season, it's been a sure thing for the military families portrayed on Lifetime Network's top-rated show.

The cast of "Army Wives" was here yesterday filming scenes for the series' upcoming second season.

The show focuses on four Army wives, the civilian husband of an Army officer, and a handful of children as they navigate the high and not-so-high points of Army life at fictional Fort Marshall, S.C. They, like real Army families, have dealt with deployment, homecomings and other issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

Out of respect for their real-life counterparts, the cast members are working to make their portrayal of military life realistic. One viewer spotted Kim Delaney -- who plays Claudia Joy Holden in the series -- in a Charleston hotel elevator and expressed her appreciation for the show in a soft voice.

"She said, 'My daughter married into the military, and he's over there right now, and they have a little boy, and just get it right!'" Delaney recalled, raising her voice sternly. "That's the thing I love about our show. It's extremely respectful of the military, and we're really proud of what the military's doing, and it's entertainment, but we want to show everybody what everybody goes through."

Delaney, who plays the wife of garrison commander Brig. Gen. Michael Holden, described her character as the "moral center" of the group during a break from filming of the upcoming season's fourth episode yesterday. The instruction Delaney got from the soft-spoken lady in the elevator resonates with the rest of the cast, as well.

"Now that the show has gotten some success, the military has come on board, which is great, because now we can get all those details right," said Brian McNamara, who plays the husband of Delaney's character. "It's not very often in television that you actually feel incredibly proud of what you're doing.”

"We went to Fort Bragg (N.C.) at the beginning of this season and met a number of soldiers," he continued. "They spoke to us about their experiences, and it just makes you that much prouder to be doing this and to do it right."

Getting the details right also is important to actor Drew Fuller, who plays Spc. Trevor LeBlanc.

"We are definitely the young couple on the Army post, so a lot of how the audience learns about life on post and certain proper protocol is told through our eyes," Fuller said. "We're portraying real people. There are many E-4s out there with a wife and two kids, and it's really important that we do it right. We've got to make it right for them; we're, as a group, so proud of what they're doing for us, it's the smallest of favors that we can do for them."

The TV family endured its first separation last season when Trevor deployed to Iraq.

Making "Army Wives" as real as possible is a top goal for Harry Bring, an Army veteran and the show's executive producer.

"What I hope happens is that we depict it properly," he said. "(I hope) that we get so much production value out of it that the audience knows that we are military -- not just a drama about Army wives, (but also) that we do this stuff for real."

Viewers were quick to take to the Internet whenever the show missed its target of getting all the details just right last season, and the blogosphere's remarks about errantly worn berets during the first season were mild compared to what it thought of Lt. Col. Joan Burton's methods of coping with her life after returning from her Iraq. Wendy Davis, who plays Burton, heard plenty of comments regarding her character's conduct.

"I don't know if it was the drinking or the dancing on the bar. It was very interesting to live that out," Davis said of her character's experience with post-traumatic stress disorder. "When we went to Fort Bragg, one of the things (the officers) shared was ... that our soldiers are not throw-away. It's really about getting them help. That was really great to hear."

Thanks in part to a former Soldier who's acting as the show's military advisor, and with tips from military family members working as extras on the set, the show is now on a truer military path.

Natalie McQueen, the wife of a deployed service member, has been a fan of the show since it began last year. She said she's pleased with the attention to detail she saw during her experience as an extra yesterday.

"I am a big fan. I really enjoy it," she said with her 5-year-old daughter, MacKenzie, at her side. "They portray the military family really well. It is very realistic."

Air Force Reserve Tech. Sgt. John Patterson, clutching a bouquet of flowers for his TV wife, also proudly acknowledged his appreciation of "Army Wives." He called the show a credible account of military life.

"I've watched it a couple of times," said Patterson, who's activated and is stationed here. "It's a pretty good show. I was in the Army also before I was in the Air Force, and it does portray [military life] well."

The second season of "Army Wives," which premiers June 8 at 10 p.m. Eastern Time on Lifetime, promises plenty of surprises -- just like life in an Army family.

Army Combat Uniform (ACU) Care

With all our Soldiers returning soon, I thought this article might be helpful.

About the Author

Tara Crooks, or "Household 6" in the Crooks' family, is best known for her ability to motivate and empower others. Tara's journey with the military began in 1998 when she and her husband PCS'd to their first duty station, Ft Hood. She is married to her husband, Kevin (US ARMY), and has two beautiful little girls, Wrena & Chloe. Their family, including two dogs and a cat, is all snuggled in their cozy home in Richmond Hill, GA.

Recently our family welcomed "daddy" back from a deployment. After all the hugs and kisses and a week of newness, reality set in. One of the first things I noticed about him being back was the laundry basket filled up much quicker. I had forgotten what it was like to do 10 loads of laundry vs. the six or so I've done for the last 15 months. I also forgot what it was like to wash uniforms.

I knew just what to do though. In 2005, about six months after the Army Combat Uniform (ACU) was issued I had researched how to care for this new "beast." If you remember correctly there was considerable hype about the Soldier-friendly changes, such as the easy-access blouse pockets and no-shine desert boots. Army spouses were ready to enjoy the no dry cleaning needed. Until we realized that although it saved us money it added to our laundry woes. I revisited my research and added a bit for you to peruse. I hope it helps you as much as it has helped me.

Army Combat Uniform (ACU) Care
There are certain types of detergent that need to be used in order for the ACU not to fade. The care label on the ACU says to "launder in a mild detergent that does not contain optical brighteners." The brighteners apparently make a stronger cleaner, so they're in most, but not all, commercial detergents. While washing the ACU in the regular detergents may fade it a bit, it does not affect the overall durability of the fabric. But, if you're like my husband, faded equals "old" and "worn," which looks not so "squared away."

The problem was that most detergents do not say on the label whether or not they contain an optical brightener. I was able to locate a list of detergents confirmed to be safe, and not safe, for washing ACU. If you use a generic detergent, be sure to compare the ingredients with the detergents on these lists to determine whether or no it's safe to use.

Detergents without optical brighteners:

All Free & Clear (formulated for ACUs)
Woolite (all versions)
Country Save
Bold Powder
Cheer Liquid and Powder (all versions except True Fit liquid)
Surf Powder (all versions)
Sport Wash

Refrain from using:

Dreft
Era
Gain
Tide
Ivory Snow
Fab
Ajax
Dynamo
Suavitel
Wisk
Arm and Hammer
Surf Liquid
All Liquid
Purex
Zout
Calgon
Spray & Wash

The ACU care label says that Soldiers should not starch the ACU under any circumstances. The use of starch, sizing, and any process that involves dry-cleaning or a steam press will adversely affect the treatments and durability of the uniform.

To dry the ACU the label recommends tumble dry at low heat (not to exceed 130 degrees farenheit). Remove immediately from the dryer and fold flat or place on a rustproof hanger to ensure heat from the dryer does not set wrinkles. To drip dry, remove from the washer/water and place on a rustproof hanger. Do not wring or twist.

The care label also says to "close loop fasteners to prevent snagging." If you don't do this, you could wind up with some pretty ugly snagged socks or snagged polyester, spandex-type undershirts that are so popular. I would say close the loop fasteners and wash the ACU inside-out to combat this problem.

While we're on the subject, here are some other laundry helpers:
Seal Velcro completely before washing to avoid lint balls
Soak coffee stains with a solution of detergent and warm water for 20 minutes
Oil stains can often be taken out with dish detergent and water
Pen stains can be treated with rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits
Sweat stains can usually be removed with OxiClean


© 2008 Tara Crooks. All rights reserved.

President Bush Announces Shorter Deployments

Just in case you haven't heard the good news...

President George W. Bush meets with Gen. David Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker April 10 at the White House. Photo by Eric Draper (White House photographer)

WASHINGTON (AFPS, April 10, 2008) – President Bush today directed Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates to shorten deployment lengths for U.S. Soldiers in Iraq from 15 to 12 months, starting in August.

Bush said he made the decision to reduce the strain on the force and because security improvements in Iraq have allowed for the withdrawal of all five surge combat brigades by the end of July.

He also said that officials would ensure troops have at least a year at home between deployments. The change goes into affect Aug. 1 and will not affect those already deployed there.

“Our nation owes a special thanks to the Soldiers and Families who’ve supported this extended deployment. We owe a special thanks to all who served in the cause for freedom in Iraq,” Bush said.

He also directly addressed the troops, saying that the war in Iraq is not “endless,” and that as conditions there improve, more troops could return home.

“The day will come when Iraq is a capable partner of the United States. The day will come when Iraq is a stable democracy that helps fight our common enemies and promote our common interests in the Middle East,” Bush said. “And when that day arrives, you'll come home with pride in your success and the gratitude of your whole nation.”

Bush heard positive reports on conditions in Iraq from Army Gen. David H. Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker this week. He cited the success of the surge brigades as setting the conditions for the troop withdrawals.

Before the surge a little more than a year ago, al-Qaida was safe in bases across the country attacking coalition forces. Now, Bush said, they are on the defensive and forces are working to deliver a “crippling blow.”

“Fifteen months ago, Americans were worried about the prospect of failure in Iraq. Today, thanks to the surge, we’ve renewed and revived the prospect of success,” Bush said.

After the withdrawal of the remaining surge combat brigades this summer, Petraeus has asked for 45 days to assess conditions on the ground and reposition troops.
“I’ve told him he’ll have all the time he needs,” Bush said. But the president warned against calling it a “pause,” saying that description is misleading. “None of our operations in Iraq will be on hold,” he said.

Bush said all U.S. efforts in the country are aimed at a clear goal: a free Iraq that can protect its people, support itself economically, and take charge of its own political affairs.

During the course of transitioning the country to Iraqi control, Bush said, coalition forces will step up their offense, becoming more targeted in their operations as Iraqi security forces take over more of the general security concerns. Also, more provinces will be transferred to Iraqi control as the United States moves into an “over-watch” role.
Economically, Iraq is moving forward, Bush said. Its economy is growing, oil revenue is on the rise, and capital investment is expanding. This is changing the U.S. role, Bush said. Americans now are spending little on large-scale construction costs, and Iraqis are paying for most of the country’s army and police, he said.

Politically, the country has seen “bottom-up” progress, as provincial and tribal leaders are turning to local political structures and taking charge of their own affairs. Provincial elections are planned this year, with national elections planned for next year.
On the diplomatic front, Bush is putting a full-court press on Iraq’s neighbors to play a more supportive role in its stabilization and growth. The president has directed Crocker and Petraeus to stop in Saudi Arabia on their way back to Iraq. He also is sending senior diplomats for talks in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Egypt.

Each country will be encouraged to reopen their embassies in Baghdad and increase their support for Iraq, Bush said.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will travel to the third Expanded Neighbors Conference in Kuwait City and the second International Compact with Iraq meeting in Stockholm.

“A stable, successful, independent Iraq is in the strategic interests of Arab nations, and all who want peace in the Middle East should support a stable, democratic Iraq. And we will urge all nations to increase their support this year,” Bush said.

Bush also issued a clear warning to Iran to stop funding and training militias fighting in Iraq.

“If Iran makes the right choice, America will encourage a peaceful relationship between Iran and Iraq. If Iran makes the wrong choice, America will act to protect our interests and our troops and our Iraqi partners,” Bush said.

In the 15-minute speech, Bush defended the cost of the war and called on Congress to pass an emergency funding request that will be presented to the session soon.
The president called the war “a burden worth bearing” and said that national interests require success there.

“Iraq is the convergence point for two of the greatest threats to America in this new century: al-Qaida and Iran,” Bush said. “If we fail there, al-Qaida would claim a propaganda victory of colossal proportions, and they could gain safe havens in Iraq from which to attack the United States, our friends and our allies. Iran would work to fill the vacuum in Iraq, and our failure would embolden its radical leaders and fuel their ambitions to dominate the region.”

Success in Iraq deal a historic blow to the global terrorist movement and a severe setback for Iran, he said.

“It would demonstrate to a watching world that mainstream Arabs reject the ideology of al-Qaida and mainstream Shiia reject the ideology of Iran's radical regime,” Bush said. “It would give America a new partner with a growing economy. … And in all these ways, it would bring us closer to our most important goal -- making the American people safer here at home.”

Web site Aims to Make Absentee Voting Easier

It's nice to see action has been taken to make it easier for our troops to vote.

Survey finds 42 percent of registered military voters were unable to vote in ’06

By Geoff Ziezulewicz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, April 6, 2008


MUNICH, Germany — A new Web site unveiled last week will give overseas military voters a one-stop site for voter registration, ballot requests and other election-related needs.

Organizers with the Overseas Vote Foundation, a nonpartisan voter advocacy group, unveiled the site — https://military.overseasvotefoundation.org/— during the foundation’s second annual overseas voting summit Friday in Munich.

Using drop-down navigation menus divided by state, the site features election official directories, a voter help desk, state-specific information and write-in ballot services.

After military personnel or their eligible family members choose a state, the system prompts the user for the information required to register there, according to a news release. Billed as an alternative to voters navigating bulky and confusing regulations on their own, the site features safeguards to ensure forms are filled out correctly and legibly for stateside election officials, the release stated.

Once a voter fills in their information, the site generates a PDF file with the address of the voter’s county election office. Users print it out, sign it and throw it in the mail.

Also Friday, OVF head Susan Dzieduszycka-Suinat announced that FedEx will deliver ballots to the States for overseas voters this election year.

“FedEx will step in at some point this year to alleviate some of the practical issues on the table,” she said to an audience that included overseas voters, government election officials and e-voting technologists.

Among the attendees was Missouri Ludlum, a senior airman with the Camp Darby based 31st Munitions Squadron in Italy.

Ludlum, 24, used her vacation time to attend the summit after a confusing stab at absentee voting in 2004.

“By the time I got it figured out, it was too late” to vote, Ludlum said. “I didn’t even know who my [voting assistance officer] was back then.”

OVF helped her navigate the process, she said.

The summit addressed a host of overseas-voting related topics, including the future of Internet voting, how other countries deal with absentee voters and the Uniformed and Overseas Citizen Absentee Voting Act, the legislation covering military and civilian voters outside the States.

Bob Carey, a naval reservist and fellow for the National Defense Committee, a military voter advocacy group, said Friday that the main issue with overseas voting remains getting the paper ballot to the voter and then back to the relevant official.

Too many overseas military voters are not getting a fair chance to make their vote count, he said.

Only about 992,000 of the estimated 6 million overseas voters were able to vote in the 2006 election, according to statistics from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

An OVF survey of registered military voters found that 42 percent of those polled said they were unable to vote in the 2006 election.

Of those servicemembers unable to cast their ballot, 85 percent cited the cause as a ballot arriving late or not at all.

“The issue is getting the ballot to military voters,” Carey said.

Despite the initial confusion, Ludlum said she’s helped 20 other airmen in her unit figure out how to vote.

“I like politics a lot and I wanted to vote in 2004,” she said of her missed opportunity. “I was really mad about that.”

Boy's Wish Comes True at Fort Sam Houston

Army Maj. Gen. Russell Czerw, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, installation commander, promotes 5-year-old Gavin Cox to the honorary rank of sergeant with help from Gavin's father, Troy Heminger (right), and Sgt. Maurice Sims, command retention noncommissioned officer, March 18, 2008. Gavin became a soldier for the day at Fort Sam Houston through the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Photo by Ed Dixon

By Phil Reidinger, Fort Sam Houston Public Affairs Office

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas - Gavin Cox could have traveled to any exotic locale or tried any profession in the world, but this 5-year-old with leukemia had just one wish: to be a soldier.

His wish was granted March 18 when he became a soldier for the day here.

"He could have chosen any activity during this break in his treatments, to include Disney World," said Gavin's father, Troy Heminger. "He wanted to be a soldier."

During a solemn ceremony in the Army Medical Department Center and School command conference room, the little boy stood proudly on the conference room table surrounded by soldiers of all ranks. Dressed in an Army combat uniform, Gavin was promoted to the honorary rank of sergeant in the Army Medical Department by the installation commander, Army Maj. Gen. Russell Czerw.

Contacted by the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Czerw agreed to honor the boy's request, planning a day for him to train with the Army's medics.

After reciting the Army's enlistment oath with him, Czerw pinned the rank of sergeant on his uniform and emphasized to the young man standing at attention, "This is a great day. Thank you for making this day special for us." He then inducted Gavin as an honorary member of the AMEDD Regiment.

Army Master Sgt. Maurice Sims, command retention noncommissioned officer, presented the Cox family members, including sister Jade and brothers Chandler and Zane, with Warrior Ethos packs, recognizing their role in helping their father, Troy, and mother, Melissa, during Gavin's chemotherapy.

The training day for Sergeant Cox began with a trip in a tactical vehicle to the ES 2000 weapons training facility, where he earned his marksmanship badge. He then took a break from training to join soldiers at the Rocco Dining Facility.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Joey Wrinkle stood outside with a platoon of soldiers assigned to 187th Medical Battalion representing all the medical specialties trained by the battalion. Assigned to the platoon for lunch, Sergeant Cox led the guidon bearer and the formation into the dining facility.

"I presented him with my airborne wings. He is strong and brave like an airborne soldier, and he deserves to be recognized. This is about what we do as soldiers," Wrinkle said.

During lunch, soldiers stopped by to wish Gavin well and present their own badges to him. He left the dining facility with air assault and expert medic badges added to his uniform.

At his next stop on the training schedule, he visited the Department of Combat Medic Training and watched soldier-medics training with a human patient simulator. He completed the day learning how patients are loaded on a Stryker ambulance and transferred to hospital units.

During the day, Gavin's parents watched their son talking to soldiers and enjoying his day with them. Troy Heminger served on active duty for nine years with 1110th Support Battalion and 58th Signal Battalion as a microwave systems operations and maintenance specialist. "He is having fun," he said, watching the boy interact with soldiers. "He is forgetting about his illness for a while."

After spending the day with Army medics, Gavin and his family left San Antonio the next day for Fort Hood, Texas, where honorary Sergeant Cox would spend another day in the Army as a soldier with the Army's combat units.

Following his week as a soldier, Gavin was scheduled for intensified chemotherapy at Dallas Children's Hospital.

Order Of The Spur

Certificate for induction into the Order of the Spur for combat action

Got word from Chris on Thursday and all is well at the COP. He said that things have been relatively quiet lately therefore he has had a little time to "chill". Transition is in progress and the excitement of returning home is everywhere! Everyone is counting the days. It seems that mail is a little slower than normal and he's anxious to get some more "pogie bate". When the mail finally catches up, he's going to be like a kid in a candy store.

As always, the tone of his email was very positive and he was very excited that they would be awarded their combat spurs very soon. I know Chris, Nick and Bill had talked with us when we went out to visit months before they left and I could tell then what a BIG DEAL it was. I really didn't know that much about it except that it was an honor to wear them, so I did a little research. This is what I found...

The Order of the Spur is a Cavalry tradition in the United States Army. For a cavalry Trooper (the cavalry equivalent of the word "Soldier") to join the Order of the Spur, they must pass a series of tests set by their command, known as the "Spur Ride." Once accomplished, the Trooper is awarded spurs to be worn with his or her military uniform. However, a Trooper may forgo the spur ride if they see combat with their cavalry unit. In some units, gold spurs are awarded for combat inductions while silver spurs represent having completed a spur ride. Therefore, silver spurs and gold spurs hold a similar relationship in the cavalry as the Expert Infantryman Badge and the Combat Infantryman Badge hold in the infantry.

Induction into the Order of the Spur is for life, and the status travels with the Soldier from unit to unit. There is no Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) requirement for the Order of the Spur and the order is open to members of foreign militaries serving with U.S. cavalry units.

History
The tradition of having to "earn your spurs" reaches back to the beginning of the cavalry. When green Troopers first arrived at their new cavalry assignments they were assigned a horse with a shaved tail. This led to the nickname "Shave Tail" for newly assigned, spur-less Soldiers. These new Troopers were in need of extensive training, especially in the area of swordsmanship from atop a horse. The horse with a shaved tail was given extra space in which to operate since its rider was marked as an amateur. During this phase of training the Troopers were not allowed to wear spurs because this would only serve to compound their problems. Only when they were able to prove their ability to perform with their horse and saber were they awarded spurs.

The Spur Ride
Aside from a wartime induction, the only means of joining the Order of the Spur is a spur ride. Similar to the tests an infantryman might undergo to earn the Expert Infantryman Badge, the spur ride is normally a two-day event where a Soldier must pass a series of tests that evaluate their navigation, shooting, first responder, physical fitness and other military skills. The tests also normally include a written portion covering cavalry history and tactics, as well as a reciting from memory the traditional cavalry poem about Fiddler's Green. Soldiers fresh to a cavalry unit are not likely to be allowed to take a spur ride until at least six months into their assignment with the unit. However, the exact standards for the spur ride are set differently by each cavalry unit.

Regulations
The U.S. Department of the Army classifies the Order of the Spur as an Army tradition, so, like the Rangers' tan beret, regulations for induction into the Order of the Spur and the wear of cavalry accoutrements are set by each cavalry unit commander. Lacking any Army-wide regulations, the standards differ from unit to unit, but in essence the tradition remains the same. What follows is a sample set of regulations which are broadly upheld in all cavalry units, and the Department of the Army policy on traditions.

Wear of Cavalry Stetson and Spurs
1. Stetson: The Stetson will be black in color. Rank and regimental or ordinary cavalry brass will adorn the Stetson. The braid will be worn around the base of the Stetson. Troopers will wear the appropriate braid color. Braid ends or acorns will be to the front of the Stetson and no more than an acorn length over the brim. Crossed sabers will be placed on the front of the Stetson. Organizational sabers are authorized if assigned or affiliated to the regiment. Rank will be worn 1/8" from the bottom of the sabers, centered. [Note: Units differ regarding placement of rank versus sabers; some conventional wisdom deems that "you are Cavalry forever, but ranks change, therefore sabers should be placed above the rank"]
a. Field Grade Officer: Solid Gold
b. Company Grade Officer: Gold and Black
c. Warrant Officer:
(1)CW4,CW5 - Solid Silver
(2)WO1,CW2,CW3 - Silver and Black
d. Non-Commissioned Officer: Branch Color (e.g. Yellow for Cavalry, Red for Artillery)
(1) The nape strap will be threaded through the appropriate eyelets in the brim of the Stetson so that strap goes around the back and the buckle is fastened and centered on the wearers head.
(2) The sides of the crown shall not be pushed in or otherwise modified. The brim will be flat with a slight droop at the front.
(3) The Stetson will be worn on the head with the brim parallel to the ground.
(4) Occasions for wearing the stetson: Squadron dining-ins/outs, formal events in dress blues, gatherings of spur holders, professional gatherings such as AAAA and any other event or function as designated by Saber 6.
2. Spurs: Spurs will be worn as a matched pair. The type of spurs allowed are set by each unit but most often they are Prince of Wales style spurs.
a. Low Quarters: The spurs will be affixed to the footgear midway between the upper portion of the sole and the lower part of the heel along the seam of the shoe. The U shaped portion shall enclose the shoe in such a manner as to assure that the rowel of the spurs curves down to the ground. The strap will be fastened over the instep of the footgear in such a manner that the buckle faces to the outside of the foot.
b. Boots: The spurs will be affixed to the footgear so that the U shaped portion follows the seam of the ankle support. The strap will be fastened over the instep of the footgear in such a manner that the buckles face the outside of the boot.
c. Single Soldiers will wear the rowels of their spurs pointing up, while married Soldiers will do so with their rowels pointing down.
3. Occasions for Wear: Spurs and stetsons will be worn at all cavalry functions, otherwise, they will not be worn outside of the cavalry footprint. Stetsons and spurs may be authorized by the local command, but are not authorized for wear at Army functions not specifically dedicated to cavalry. Wear with civilian attire may be restricted by a local commander, but otherwise the spurs and Stetson may be mixed with civilian attire when rank has been removed.

Fiddler's Green

Today I want to share a little bit of history and tradition. It is so interesting to me all the little things that go on with the Soldiers. I hope you enjoy today's history lesson. lol

Fiddler's Green is the happy land imagined by cavalry troopers and sailors, where there is perpetual mirth, a fiddle that never stops playing and dancers who never tire.

Fiddler's Green features in an old Irish legend, to the effect that a sailor can find the paradisaical village by walking inland with an oar over his shoulder until he finds a place where people ask him what he's carrying. This legend may have some of its origin in Tiresias' prophecy in Homer's Odyssey, in which he tells Odysseus that the only way to appease the sea god Poseidon and find happiness is to take an oar and walk until he finds a land where he is asked what he is carrying, and there make his sacrifice.

Written anonymously for the U.S. cavalry, published in a 1923 U.S. Cavalry Manual. It is still used in modern cavalry units to memorialize the deceased.

Fiddler's Green

Halfway down the trail to hell
In a shady meadow green,
Are the souls of all dead troopers camped
Near a good old-time canteen
And this eternal resting place
Is known as Fiddler’s Green.
Marching past, straight through to hell,
The infantry are seen,
Accompanied by the Engineers,
Artillery and Marine,
For none but the shades of Cavalrymen
Dismount at Fiddlers' Green.
Though some go curving down the trail
To seek a warmer scene,
No trooper ever gets to Hell
Ere he's emptied his canteen,
And so rides back to drink again
With friends at Fiddlers' Green.
And so when man and horse go down
Beneath a saber keen,
Or in a roaring charge or fierce melee
You stop a bullet clean,
And the hostiles come to get your scalp,
Just empty your canteen,
And put your pistol to your head
And go to Fiddlers' Green.

Army Tradition

Department of the Army Regulations
While the regulations governing the order of the spur are set by each cavalry commander (and so do not appear in the Army Regulation governing wear and appearance of uniforms and insignia), the practice falls under what the Army officially recognizes as a tradition. The following is from Field Manual 7-21.13 (The Soldier's Guide, dated 15 OCT 2003):

TRADITIONS
4-25. Tradition is a customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior help by an identifiable group of people. It is information, beliefs, and customs handed down by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction. Our military traditions are really the "Army Way" of doing and thinking. An interesting thing about traditions is that many of our Army traditions started out as something quite different from what they are now.

4-26. Military tradition is an interesting and often amusing subject. It gives a Soldier a feeling of pride to understand just why we do things the way we do. Traditions are expressed in the things we do, the uniform we wear, and the things we say. Many of the words we use in the Army are unique and have been added to our vocabulary from different parts of the world and at different times in history.

4-27. Army traditions are the things that everyone in the Army does, everywhere. Unit traditions are the unique things that you do in your unit that other units may or may not do. Some unit traditions are—

Ceremonial duties. Soldiers of the Old Guard, the 3d U.S. Infantry, have been

Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier since 1948.

The green berets of the Army's Special Forces.

Airborne units’ maroon beret.

Cavalry units’ spurs and hats. [Bold added]

Special designations (authorized unit nicknames) such as Cottonbalers, the 7th Infantry Regiment.

Distinctive items of clothing worn in your unit such as headgear, belt buckles, and tankers' boots.

The promotion party.

Unit mottoes such as "Victory!" or "Send me!"

"Hooah!" This informal but always understood sound is less a word than an audible affirmation of the warrior ethos. The Soldier that utters that sound understands his task and will not quit until it is completed. That sound means Soldiers are ready and willing to accomplish the mission at hand.

Famous Military Quotes

Dwight Eisenhower
Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.

George Patton
Live for something rather than die for nothing.

Dwight D. Eisenhower
Neither a wise nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him.

George S. Patton
Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.

George S. Patton
No good decision was ever made in a swivel chair.

Dwight D. Eisenhower
Only our individual faith in freedom can keep us free.

Colin Powell
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.

Dwight D. Eisenhower
The best morale exists when you never hear the word mentioned. When you hear it it's usually lousy.

Norman Schwarzkopf
The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.

Colin Powell
There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, learning from failure.

Bush Delivers $515.4 Billion Defense Budget Request

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON - A 3.4 percent military pay raise, a 2.9 percent civilian raise, money to continue to grow the Army and Marines and a funding increase to maintain readiness are major aspects of the fiscal 2009 defense budget request President Bush sent to Congress today.

The defense budget request is for $515.4 billion – a $35.9 billion increase over the 2008 level. The total federal budget request for fiscal 2009 is $3.1 trillion.

Defense officials said five priorities drive the budget request: winning the war on terror, increasing ground combat capabilities, improving readiness, developing future combat capabilities and improving service members' quality of life.

"The budget request provides the resources needed to prevail in current conflicts, while preparing the department for a range of challenges the nation may face in the years ahead," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said during a Pentagon news conference this afternoon.

He pointed out that the defense request amounts to about 3.4 percent of U.S. gross domestic product. "To give you some basis for comparison, ... during the Korean War the percentage of GDP going to defense was about 14 percent, and during Vietnam it was about 9 percent," Gates said.

The budget funds the operations, training, recruiting and equipping of 2.2 million personnel in the Defense Department.

The service portions of the budget are $140.7 billion for the Army, $149.2 billion for the Navy and Marine Corps and $143.8 billion for the Air Force.

The request is broken into four major funding areas: military pay and health care; family housing and facilities; operations, readiness and support; and strategic modernization.

Military pay and health care would receive $149.4 billion, with pay and benefits receiving $107.8 billion and health care $41.6 billion.

Family housing and facilities account for $23.9 billion, with $3.2 billion going to privatizing 12,324 more homes for service members. Base realignment and closure costs are set at $9.5 billion, fully funding 25 base closures and 24 major realignments. The 2009 request also asks Congress to approve $11.2 billion for training centers and base infrastructure needed as the Army and Marine Corps continue to grow.

The budget continues funds for increasing the size of the Army and Marine Corps. Last year, the overall end-strength increase was set at 65,000 soldiers and 27,000 Marines through fiscal 2012.

The budget request asks for $15.5 billion for the Army increase and $5 billion for the Marines in fiscal 2009. If approved, the increase will boost the Army to 532,400 during fiscal 2009 and the number of brigade combat teams from 40 to 42. The Army's goal is a force of 547,400 with 48 brigade combat teams in fiscal 2012.

In fiscal 2009, the Marine Corps will boost its end-strength by 5,000 to 194,000. The Marine goal is 202,000 in fiscal 2011.

The increase will help both services handle the operations tempo required to fight the global war on terrorism, and could potentially mean more time at home for service members. Currently, soldiers deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan for 15-month tours and are at home stations for a year; the Marines are deployed for seven months and home for seven months. Once the growth is finished, soldiers will spend a year deployed and two years at home station, and the Marines will deploy for seven months and be home for 14 months.

Air Force end-strength will be set at 316,600, and Navy end-strength will be 325,300.

Force readiness will experience a 10.4 percent jump in funding over 2008 if the budget is approved. The budget request is $158.3 billion, an increase of $14.9 billion. Operational readiness – tank miles, ship steaming days and flying hours – will remain constant, officials said.

The request also includes $33.1 billion for logistical, intelligence and servicewide support activities. Equipment maintenance is set at $11.8 billion, while base operations and facilities maintenance are pegged at $32.6 billion for more than 5,300 sites worldwide. Training is set for $7.4 billion, and recruiting is at $3.3 billion for fiscal 2009.

Strategic modernization is set at $183.8 billion in fiscal 2009, up $10.5 billion from fiscal 2008. The category includes procurement and research and development. Joint air capabilities account for about half of the procurement, and includes 16 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, 20 F-22A Raptors, 36 V-22 Ospreys, 23 F/A-18 Hornets, 16 CH-47 Chinook helicopters and $1.4 billion for the Air Force's KC-X tanker aircraft program.

On the Navy side, the budget includes money for building the CVN-21 aircraft carrier, a Virginia-class submarine, two littoral combat ships and a DDG-1000 destroyer.

Army buys include 119 Stryker vehicles, 5,249 Humvees, 29 M-1A1 tank upgrades, 1,061 heavy tactical vehicles and 3,187 medium tactical vehicles.

Spec-based capabilities include more launch vehicles, two space-based infrared systems and advanced, extremely high-frequency satellite and ballistic missile defense.

Officials said the department will work with Congress to ensure four specific initiatives mentioned in the president's State of the Union address become realities. The first is to put legislation in place so service members can transfer unused education benefits to spouses or children. The second is to expand and strengthen career opportunities for military spouses. Third is to develop a public-private partnership to increase child-care centers in communities surrounding military bases. The last is to implement the Dole-Shalala Report recommendations for treatment of wounded warriors and their families.

Bush Oks 3.5 Percent Pay Raise Bush Oks 3.5 Percent Pay Raise

Associated Press
WASHINGTON -- President Bush on Monday signed into law a defense bill that authorizes a 3.5 percent pay raise for troops and addresses his concerns about exposing Iraq to costly lawsuits.

Bush had rejected an earlier version of the bill late last year because of a provision that would have guaranteed that victims of state-sponsored abuse can sue foreign governments in court and collect judgments by seizing its assets inside the United States. Bush said that would have exposed Iraq to high-dollar lawsuits over abuse during the Saddam Hussein era at a time when the country is struggling to rebuild its infrastructure.

The administration estimated that Iraq had more than $25 billion of assets invested in the U.S. that could be tied up in litigation.

See how your legislator voted on the defense bill.

Democrats reluctantly revised the measure to allow Bush to grant immunity to Iraq, so long as he determines that doing so promotes Iraqi reconstruction and that Baghdad remains a "reliable ally" in the war on terror. Bush, in signing the law, immediately invoked that authority and waived the law's application to Iraq.

"He appreciates the cooperation of both House and Senate leaders to quickly address the concerns raised by the president over the Christmas holiday," White House press secretary Dana Perino said of Bush. "Congress passed the legislation swiftly, and that is a very good thing for our troops and the Iraqi people."

The revised $696 billion bill makes a 3.5 percent pay raise for troops retroactive to Jan. 1.

The decision to change the bill without trying to challenge Bush's rejection reflects the difficulty Democrats have had in challenging the president on even minor issues. Democrats have said that Bush's earlier opposition to the bill delayed various benefit programs for troops, including the pay raise.

Troops, Families Can Access Free Tax-Filing Services

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON - Rather than paying a tax specialist, service members and their families can obtain free assistance to prepare and file their annual tax returns through a special military program, a Defense Department tax advisor said today.

The military's tax assistance program processes more than 200,000 returns each year, Army Maj. John Johnson, director of the Defense Department's Armed Forces Tax Council, said during an interview with Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service reporters.

"It is just one of the benefits military people have," Johnson said of the program. Participants can visit their installation tax center for free assistance in filling out tax returns, he said, or access the Military OneSource website, www.militaryonesource.com.

"You can log on there, online, and also file for free," Johnson said of the Web site. The online tax-filing system on Military OneSource is closed to military retirees, however.

Military members from all service branches sit on the Pentagon's tax council that coordinates the program, Johnson explained.

Free tax-filing assistance services are open to active-duty and reserve component service members, as well as family members and military retirees, Johnson said.

Participants should bring their military-issued identification cards, W-2 Wage and Earnings statements and any other forms or documents required for tax filing, Johnson said. People who believe they may be eligible for tax refunds also should bring their bank account numbers if they'd like the refund direct-deposited into a specific account, Johnson pointed out.

More complicated tax-preparation work involving itemizing of returns for added tax deductions also can be processed for free, although these returns normally require more documentation, he said.

Military members receive many tax benefits, Johnson pointed out. For example, all allowances, including housing, meals, family separation and others, are tax-exempt, he said, as is all military pay for enlisted military members deployed in overseas combat zones. Officers deployed in combat zones, he added, can exclude about $7,000 of their monthly pay for federal taxes.

Service members deployed to combat zones have six months to file their taxes after departing the area, Johnson noted.

Another tax-related benefit for service members deployed to overseas combat zones is the Savings Deposit Program, Johnson said. Under SDP, eligible service members can contribute up to $10,000 into their savings accounts while they're deployed and earn a government-guaranteed 10-percent return on their money, he explained.

"You're not going to beat that," Johnson said of the SDP program.

People with questions about the military's tax filing assistance program can visit the Military OneSource Web site or their installation tax center, he said.

Rice Says Iraq Has Entered 'Time of Hope'

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON - Iraq is entering a "time of hope," as its citizens' continue to step forward, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice during a previously unannounced trip to Baghdad.

Rice, who is traveling with President Bush on his trip to the Middle East, broke off from the party in Saudi Arabia for meetings with Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Mahmud Zebari in Baghdad.

Bush said during a media availability in Riyadh that Rice's trip was to encourage Iraqi leaders to continue to make political progress.

"It seemed to make sense that she ... go and sit down with the leaders and encourage them to continue making progress," the president said.

The Iraqi legislature had passed a de-Baathification law to make it easier for some members of the country's former regime to work with the new government, and is working on revenue-sharing as well as hydrocarbon and election laws.

"I was in the neighborhood, and I thought I should stop by," Rice said during a news conference in Baghdad with Zebari.

Rice said that at every stop the president has made during his trip, he has been asked about the situation in Iraq.

The president "has talked about the importance that Iraq's neighbors support a democratic and unified Iraq," Rice said. "The efforts that are being made here toward democracy and reconciliation are critical, not just for the future of Iraq, but for the future of the region and indeed for the future of the world."

Rice said the current plan to redeploy four brigades of U.S. soldiers back to the United States by the summer still stands. A fifth brigade combat team already has redeployed. What happens to U.S. troop levels in Iraq after that will depend on progress on the ground, she said.

The president's decision will be based on advice from commanders after the situation is "assessed in real terms," Rice said. The assessment will include the capabilities of the Iraqi forces and the capabilities of the enemy.

"The president is going to make those decisions based on what is needed to continue the progress that has been seen," she said. "But he has said that he believes we are on track for the initial drawdown that (Army) Gen. (David H.) Petraeus talked about back in Washington. Anything further he'll have to look at."

Petraeus, commander of Multi-National Force Iraq, made his recommendations in a September report to Congress.

The president's Middle East trip is happening at a time of hope in Iraq, Rice said. Security progress is the most noticeable, "but I must say from the time that I was here a month ago, I've seen also progress on the political front, particularly in the reconciliation that the Iraqi people themselves are carrying out at the grassroots (level)," she said. "You are seeing citizens emerge who are determined to fight the extremists, the terrorists, the foreign fighters who have been a scourge to this country and have endangered the lives of Iraqis and stability of this country."

As the citizens are fighting back and taking control, Iraqi provincial leadership is emerging and moving forward, she said. "I also have had discussions with the national leadership during my time here, and there seems to be a spirit of cooperation to move forward on the national front as well," she said.

Iraqi and U.S. leaders are working on a long-term treaty between the two nations, Rice and Zebari said.

"Until we are able to stand on our feet, the United States is a strategic and strong ally to Iraq," Zebari said through a translator. "The United States has similar agreements with other Arab states."

The secretary noted that the United States has been an important stabilizing force in the Middle East and Persian Gulf for decades. "We look forward to a relationship with Iraq for the long term that would be befitting of friends that have sacrificed together to bring into being this democratic Iraq, and to contributing to the stability of Iraq and the stability of this whole region," she said.

Iraq 'Now a Different Place' From Year Ago, Bush Says

President Bush reaches out to troops at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, Jan. 12. (White House photo/Eric Draper)

Story by Gerry Gilmore

WASHINGTON - The situation in Iraq has improved significantly over the past year, and that progress is enabling some U.S. troops to return home, President Bush told reporters in Kuwait, Jan. 12.

"Iraq is now a different place from one year ago. Much hard work remains, but levels of violence are significantly reduced," Bush, who is continuing his week-long trip across the Middle East, told reporters at Camp Arifjan.

The president had previously met in Kuwait with U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker and Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multi-national Force Iraq. Petraeus's "surge" strategy of adding 30,000 troops to pursue insurgents and disrupt their operations and the emergence of anti-al-Qaida concerned citizens groups in Anbar province and other areas are credited for reducing the violence across Iraq in recent months.

"Hope is returning to Baghdad, and hope is returning to towns and villages throughout the country," Bush said. Iraqis who had fled the violence "are beginning to return and rebuild their lives," the president added.

Al-Qaida in Iraq remain dangerous, but the terror group has been dealt "heavy blows" in recent months, Bush said, by U.S., coalition and Iraqi security forces, as well as the concerned citizens groups. Terrorists now face "a growing uprising of ordinary Iraqis who want to lead peaceful lives," Bush said.

The president also pointed to evidence revealing Iranian complicity in stoking violence and unrest in Iraq. "Iran's role in fomenting violence has been exposed. Iranian agents are in our custody, and we are learning more about how Iran has supported extremist groups with training and lethal aid," Bush said.

However, Iraqi soldiers and police have taken more responsibility for security in their country over the past year and have targeted the terrorists with a surge of 100,000 additional forces, the president said.

Additionally, "tens of thousands of concerned local citizens are protecting their communities, and working with coalition and Iraqi forces to ensure al-Qaida cannot return," Bush said. The Iraqi government is distributing oil-generated revenue across the country, he noted, to fuel reconstruction projects to follow the security gains.

"And, from Kirkuk to Ramadi, to Karbala to Baghdad, the people of Iraq – Sunni, Shiia and Kurd – are coming together at the grassroots (level) to build a common future," the president said.

The improvement in the situation is enabling the redeployment of some U.S. forces from Iraq, Bush said, noting that an Army brigade and a Marine expeditionary unit have already departed without being replaced.

"In the coming months, four additional brigades and two Marine battalions will follow suit," Bush said. Any future troop reductions, he said, would be based on Petraeus's recommendations, which in turn would be predicated according to conditions on the ground.

Petraeus will continue to monitor the situation, Bush said, noting the general is slated to provide another Iraq report to Congress in March.

Bush said he supported Petraeus's surge strategy to reduce insurgent violence in Iraq because he believed that if the Iraqis were "given a chance to live in a free society, they'll do the hard work necessary to live in a free society."

The Iraqi government is moving forward in passing legislation to bring the country together, but more work needs to be done, Bush said. However, good progress is being made, he said, in view of the fact that the Iraqis have had to transition from Saddam Hussein's despotic rule to a democratic government virtually overnight.

The international community must remain engaged in helping the new Iraq get onto its feet, Bush said.

"We must do all we can to ensure that 2008 brings even more progress for Iraq's young democracy," the president said, and he promised the United States would continue to assist Iraq.

"Long-term success in Iraq is vital to our friends here in the (Mideast) region and to America's national security," Bush said. "And, long-term success will require active U.S. engagement that outlasts my presidency."

Bush said the U.S. relationship with the new Iraq will feature diplomatic, economic and security components and "will strengthen a democracy that serves its people, fights terrorists and serves as a beacon of freedom for millions across the Middle East."

The Third Infantry Division at 90

Third Infantry Division - 2007 - Rock of the Marne

On November 21, 2007, the U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Division celebrates its 90th birthday and service to America, dating back to World War I when it’s "Dog Face Soldiers" first blocked German troops from entering Paris and earned them the nickname, "The Rock of the Marne."

From that day forward, the Third Infantry Division was on the front line of every campaign over the next nine decades.

In World War II, 3 ID crisscrossed Europe and Africa pushing back Nazi offensives.

In Korea, they protected Seoul from the Chinese Army.

Throughout the Cold War, their presence was felt in Western Europe.

In the Balkans, 3 ID deployed to maintain security in Bosnia and Kosovo.

During the Persian Gulf War, the proud Soldiers of the Third Infantry Division helped liberate Kuwait from the Iraqi occupation.

Currently back in Iraq for their third tour of duty under Operation Iraqi Freedom, 3 ID is supporting the Iraqi people as they build toward a country free from terrorism and extremist ideology.

This birthday means a great deal to the men and women of the Third Infantry Division. A Soldier defines his identity by his unit, those other men and women he serves beside everyday. When Soldiers go to war, that identity and faith in their commitment to each other, coupled with the lessons passed down by previous generations, helps them meet the challenge of putting their lives on the line for future generations of Americans.

As today’s “Dog Face Soldiers” carry on this tradition of honor and sacrifice, we invite you to celebrate that tradition with them.

Troops to Devour 171 Tons of Turkeys

By Gina Cavallaro - Staff writer

Unlike Charles Dickens’ hungry orphan, Oliver Twist, who begged of his master, “Please sir, may I have some more?” many troops dining in the war zone this Thanksgiving will have all the turkey and trimmings they can eat.

Dinner organizers have planned meals for an estimated 350,000 soldiers, contractors and other hungry invitees working in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Dubai and Djibouti.

For this year’s holiday, the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia began shipping food to theater in July. Last month, it was parceled out to dining facilities using trucks, helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

“We cannot bring the families of the troops together on Thanksgiving Day, so our goal is to bring a taste of home to our troops in harm’s way,” Ray Miller, director of the DSCP’s subsistence directorate, said in an e-mail.

Responding to requirements from chow hall managers who placed their orders in May, the DSCP has sent more than 171 tons of whole turkeys, turkey breasts and turkey thighs to those serving in the Middle East.

For meat lovers who want a little variety, there will also be about 60 tons of shrimp, 81 tons of beef and 44 tons of ham.

The shipment also included 15,340 containers of stuffing mix, 13,008 containers of potatoes — no peeling required — 41,004 cans of sweet potatoes, 9,995 cans of cranberry sauce and 15 tons of corn.

To finish off the meal, there will be an assortment of 163,464 individual pies.

At a cost of $7.4 million, the meal is the king daddy of morale boosters for those spending the holiday so far from home.

The menu for the Christmas meal is identical, except for larger quantities of turkey breast meat, potatoes, cranberry sauce and corn. And the cost is a bargain: $5.6 million.

“It takes a long time to get the bird to the plate, especially to remote bases, so when we see the troops enjoying their holiday meals, and it’s a confirmation of a job well done, it’s nothing short of a broadcast throughout [the directorate]. It puts smiles on everybody’s faces,” Miller said.

Veterans Day 2007: A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Washington, Sunday, 11 November 2007

Veterans Day 2007: A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America 1-30th first Task Force Marne unit to get MRAP Sunni, Shia sheiks present united front against al-Qaeda Al Zyrka School opens in neighborhood formerly plagued by al-Qaeda Concerned Iraqi Citizens Help 'Sledgehammer' Brigade Smash Crime Throughout our history, America has been protected by patriots who cherished liberty and made great sacrifices to advance the cause of freedom. The brave members of the United States Armed Forces have answered the call to serve our Nation, ready to give all for their country. On Veterans Day, we honor these extraordinary Americans for their service and sacrifice, and we pay tribute to the legacy of freedom and peace that they have given our great Nation.

In times of war and of peace, our men and women in uniform stepped forward to defend their fellow citizens and the country they love. They shouldered great responsibility and lived up to the highest standards of duty and honor. Our veterans held fast against determined and ruthless enemies and helped save the world from tyranny and terror. They ensured that America remained what our founders meant her to be: a light to the nations, spreading the good news of human freedom to the darkest corners of the earth.

Like the heroes before them, today a new generation of men and women are fighting for freedom around the globe. Their determination, courage, and sacrifice are laying the foundation for a more secure and peaceful world.

Veterans Day is dedicated to the extraordinary Americans who protected our freedom in years past, and to those who protect it today. They represent the very best of our Nation. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and Coast Guardsman has earned the lasting gratitude of the American people, and their service and sacrifice will be remembered forever. In the words of Abraham Lincoln: " . . . let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the Nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle . . . ." On this Veterans Day, I ask all Americans to express their appreciation to our Nation's veterans.

With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2007, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 11 through November 17, 2007, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to support and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.

GEORGE W. BUSH

President Pays Tribute to Iraq War Veterans

President Bush greets Malia Fry, widow of Marine Gunnery Sgt. John David Fry, who was killed in Iraq, at the Fallen Soldiers Memorial at American Legion Post 121 in Waco, Texas on Nov. 11. To the right of Malia Fry is Charles Fry, father of John David Fry.

By Deb Riechmann - The Associated Press

WACO, Texas — Marking his fifth Veterans Day since the invasion of Iraq, U.S. President Bush honored U.S. troops past and present at a tearful ceremony Sunday for four Texans who died there.

The White House had said Bush was going to use his Veterans Day speech to scold Congress for not sending him a veterans spending bill. But the president finished without any reference to the bill or Congress.

“In their sorrow, these families need to know — and families all across our nation of the fallen — need to know that your loved ones served a cause that is good and just and noble,” Bush said. “And as their commander in chief, I make you this promise: Their sacrifice will not be in vain.”

Bush, who is scheduled to return to the White House on Monday, following his two-day meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at his Texas ranch.

“America is blessed to have such brave defenders,” Bush said of the troops in Iraq. “They are tomorrow’s veterans and they are bringing pride to our country. Their service is noble and it is necessary. The enemies who attacked us six years ago want to strike our country again, and next time they hope to kill Americans on a scale that will make 9/11 pale by comparison.”

Bush has spent four of the past six Veterans Days at Arlington National Cemetery. This year, Vice President Dick Cheney went there to pay tribute to Iraq veterans.

Hundreds of people cheered when Cheney offered personal regards from Bush. He placed a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknowns, pausing to straighten the ribbons on the front.

Cheney quoted Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, in saying troops there are fighting in a complex and challenging situation, and praised them for a “magnificent job.”

In previewing Bush’s speech, the White House had said he would criticize Congress for not sending him the appropriations measure that funds programs for veterans.

The veterans bill has gotten caught up in a larger battle between Bush and Congress over Democratic efforts to add about $23 billion for domestic programs to Bush’s $933 billion proposal for all agency budgets.

Once Bush was at Sunday’s ceremony, however, he decided not to mention the budget fight.

Afterward, White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said Bush “significantly shortened” his remarks because the ceremony had already been more than an hour long. “I think he felt it was more important to shorten the remarks and meet with the families as scheduled,” Johndroe said.

——

Associated Press writer Natasha Metzler in Arlington, Virginia, contributed to this report.

Army Warns of Holiday Mail ‘Hoax’

Staff report

The Army is warning the public of a “hoax” e-mail asking recipients to send holiday mail to soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

The e-mail instructs recipients to send Christmas cards to “A Recovering American Soldier,” and lists Walter Reed’s Washington, D.C., mailing address.

But the U.S. Postal Service won’t deliver any such card, letter or care package.

Under a 2001 policy designed to improve security, the medical center can’t accept mail addressed to “Any Wounded Soldier” or “A Recovering American Soldier.”

Lt. Col. Kevin Arata, a spokesman for Army Human Resources Command, said his office has been inundated with inquiries from the public about the e-mail.

“It’s not true,” he said. “Don’t do it.”

Instead, Arata said, members of the public wishing to spread holiday cheer should consult the military’s “American Supports You” Web site for information about more than 300 nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping U.S. soldiers and their families.