Army Doctor Held in Ft. Hood Rampage

By ROBERT D. McFADDEN
An Army psychiatrist facing deployment to one of America’s war zones killed 13 people and wounded 30 others on Thursday in a shooting rampage with two handguns at the sprawling Fort Hood Army post in central Texas, military officials said.

It was one of the worst mass shootings ever at a military base in the United States.

The gunman, who was still alive after being shot four times, was identified by law enforcement authorities as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, 39, who had been in the service since 1995. Major Hasan was about to be deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan, said Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Republican of Texas.

Clad in a military uniform and firing an automatic pistol and another weapon, Major Hasan, a balding, chubby-faced man with heavy eyebrows, sprayed bullets inside a crowded medical processing center for soldiers returning from or about to be sent overseas, military officials said.

The victims, nearly all military personnel but including two civilians, were cut down in clusters, the officials said. Witnesses told military investigators that medics working at the center tore open the clothing of the dead and wounded to get at the wounds and administer first aid.

As the shooting unfolded, military police and civilian officers of the Department of the Army responded and returned the gunman’s fire, officials said, adding that Major Hasan was shot by a first-responder, who was herself wounded in the exchange.

In the confusion of a day of wild and misleading reports, the major and the officer who shot him were both reported killed in the gun battle, but both reports were erroneous.

Eight hours after the shootings, Lt. Gen. Robert W. Cone, a base spokesmen, said Major Hasan, whom he described as the sole gunman, had been shot four times, but was hospitalized off the base, under around-the-clock guard, in stable condition and was not in imminent danger of dying.

Another military spokesman listed the major’s condition as critical. The condition of the officer who shot the gunman was not given.

Major Hasan was not speaking to investigators, and much about his background — and his motives — were unknown.

General Cone said that terrorism was not being ruled out, but that preliminary evidence did not suggest that the rampage had been an act of terrorism. Fox News quoted a retired Army colonel, Terry Lee, as saying that Major Hasan, with whom he worked, had voiced hope that President Obama would pull American troops out of Iraq and Afghanistan, had argued with military colleagues who supported the wars and had tried to prevent his own deployment.

As a parade of ambulances wailed to the scene of the shootings, officials said the extent of injuries to the wounded varied significantly, with some in critical condition and others lightly wounded. General Cone praised the first-responders and the medics who acted quickly to administer first aid at the scene.

“Horrible as this was, I think it could have been much worse,” the general said.

The rampage recalled other mass shootings in the United States, including 13 killed at a center for immigrants in upstate New York last April, the deaths of 10 during a gunman’s rampage in Alabama in March and 32 people killed at Virginia Tech in 2007, the deadliest shooting in modern American history.

As a widespread investigation by the military, the F.B.I., and other agencies began, much about the assault in Texas remained unclear. Department of Homeland Security officials said the Army would take the lead in the investigation.

A federal law enforcement official said the F.B.I. was sending more agents to join the inquiry. On Thursday night, F.B.I. agents were interviewing residents of a townhouse complex in the Washington suburb of Kensington, Md., where Major Hasan had lived before moving to Texas.

Mr. Obama called the shootings “a horrific outburst of violence” and urged Americans to pray for those who were killed and wounded.

“It is difficult enough when we lose these men and women in battles overseas,” he said. “It is horrifying that they should come under fire at an Army base on American soil.”

The president pledged “to get answers to every single question about this horrible incident.”

Military records indicated that Major Hasan was single, had been born in Virginia, had never served abroad and listed “no religious preference” on his personnel records. Three other soldiers, their roles unclear, were taken into custody in connection with the rampage. The office of Representative John Carter, Republican of Texas, said they were later released, but a Fort Hood spokesman could not confirm that. General Cone said that more than 100 people had been questioned during the day.

Fort Hood, near Killeen and 100 miles south of Dallas-Fort Worth, is the largest active duty military post in the United States, 340 square miles of training and support facilities and homes, a virtual city for more than 50,000 military personnel and some 150,000 family members and civilian support personnel. It has been a major center for troops being deployed to or returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The base went into lockdown shortly after the shootings. Gates were closed and barriers put up at all entrance and exit checkpoints, and the military police turned away all but essential personnel. Schools on the base were closed, playgrounds were deserted and sidewalks were empty. Sirens wailed across the base through the afternoon, a warning to military personnel and their families to remain indoors.

Military commanders were instructed to account for all personnel on the base.

“The immediate concern is to make sure that all of our soldiers and family members are safe, and that’s what commanders have been instructed to do,” said Jay Adams of the First Army, Division West, at Ford Hood.

General Cone said the shooting took place about 1:30 p.m., inside a complex of buildings that he called a Soldier Readiness Processing Center. The type of weapons used was unclear, and it was not known whether the gunman had reloaded, although it seemed likely, given that 43 people were shot, perhaps more than once.

All the victims were gunned down “in the same area,” General Cone said.

As the shootings ended, scores of emergency vehicles rushed to the scene, which is in the center of the fort, and dozens of ambulances carried the shooting victims to hospitals in the region.

Both of the handguns used by Major Hasan were recovered at the scene, officials said. Investigators said the major’s computers, cellphones and papers would be examined, his past investigated and his friends, relatives and military acquaintances would be interviewed in an effort to develop a profile of him and try to learn what had motivated his deadly outburst.

Major Hasan was assigned to the Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood.

The weapons used in the attack were described as “civilian” handguns. Security experts said the fact that two handguns had been used suggested premeditation, as opposed to a spontaneous act.

Rifles and assault weapons are conspicuous and not ordinarily seen on the streets of a military post, and medical personnel would have no reason to carry any weapon, they said. Moreover, security experts noted, it took a lot of ammunition to shoot 43 people, another indication of premeditation.

It appeared certain that the shootings would generate a whole new look at questions of security on military posts of all the armed forces in the United States. Expressions of dismay were voiced by public officials across the country.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council, speaking for many American Muslims, condemned the shootings as a “heinous incident” and said, “We share the sentiment of our president.”

The council added, “Our entire organization extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed as well as those wounded and their loved ones.”

General Cone said Fort Hood was “absolutely devastated.”

News of the shooting set off panic among families and friends of the base personnel. Alyssa Marie Seace’s husband, Pfc. Ray Seace Jr., sent her a text message just before 2 p.m. saying that someone had “shot up the S.R.P. building,” referring to the Soldier Readiness Processing Center. He told her he was “hiding.”

Ms. Seace, 18, who lives about five minutes from the base and had not been watching the news, reacted with alarm. She texted him back but got no response. She called her father in Connecticut, who told her not to call her husband because it might reveal his hiding place.

Finally, 45 minutes later, her husband, a mechanic who is scheduled to deploy to Iraq in February, texted back to say that three people from his unit had been hit and that a dozen people in all were dead.

By late afternoon, the sirens at Fort Hood had fallen silent. In Killeen, state troopers were parked on ridges overlooking the two main highways through town. In residential areas, the only signs of life were cars moving through the streets. In the business districts, people went about their business.

In 1991, Killeen was the scene of one of the worst mass killings in American history. A gunman drove his pickup truck through the window of a cafeteria, fatally shot 22 people with a handgun, then killed himself.

Fort Hood, opened in September 1942 as America geared up for World War II, was named for Gen. John Bell Hood of the Confederacy. It has been used continuously for armor training and is charged with maintaining readiness for combat missions.

It is a place that feels, on ordinary days, like one of the safest in the world, surrounded by those who protect the nation with their lives. It is home to nine schools — seven elementary schools and two middle schools, for the children of personnel. But on Thursday, the streets were lined with emergency vehicles, their lights flashing and sirens piercing the air as Texas Rangers and state troopers took up posts at the gates to seal the base.

Shortly after 7 p.m., the sirens sounded again and over the loudspeakers a woman’s voice that could be heard all over the base announced in a clipped military fashion: “Declared emergency no longer exists.”

The gates reopened, and a stream of cars and trucks that had been bottled up for hours began to move out.

Reporting was contributed by Michael Brick from Fort Hood, Tex., Michael Luo from New York, and David Stout from Washington.

Fort Hood Gunman in Custody After 12 Killed, 31 Injured in Rampage

Since this story was released this morning, one more person has died, bringing the total to 13 killed and 30 injured. This tragedy is beyond belief. Our Soldiers risk their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan only to come home and be shot by one of their own. My prayers go out for out to all the victims of this horrible incident.

Army: Fort Hood Gunman in Custody After 12 Killed, 31 Injured in Rampage
Friday , November 06, 2009



ADVERTISEMENTAn Army psychiatrist who reportedly feared an impending war deployment is in custody as the sole suspect in a shooting rampage at Fort Hood in Texas that left 12 dead and 31 wounded, an Army official said Thursday night.

The gunman, Major Nidal Malik Hasan, first said to have been killed, was wounded but alive in a hospital under military guard, said Lt. Gen. Bob Cone at Fort Hood. He was shot four times, and was on a ventilator and unconscious, according to military officials. "I would say his death is not imminent," Cone said.

Two other soldiers who were taken into custody for questioning were later released, Cone said. A female first responder who shot at Hasan also survived, contrary to earlier reports that she had died.

The rampage was believed to be the deadliest at a U.S. military base in history.

Soldiers rushed to treat their injured colleagues by ripping their uniforms into makeshift bandages. Officials have not ruled out the possibility that some casualties may have been victims of "friendly fire," shot by authorities amid the mayhem and confusion at the scene, said a senior U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss matters that were under investigation.

Republican Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said generals at Fort Hood told her that Hasan, a Virginia native and a Muslim, was about to deploy overseas. Retired Col. Terry Lee, who said he had worked with Hasan, told Fox News he was being sent to Afghanistan.

SLIDESHOW: Deadly rampage at Fort Hood Army Base

Lee said Hasan had hoped Obama would pull troops out of Afghanistan and Iraq and got into frequent arguments with others in the military who supported the wars.

Before Thursday's shooting, Hasan reportedly gave away all of his furniture along with copies of the Koran to neighbors, KXXV-TV reported.

Video from the scene showed police patrolling the area with handguns and rifles, ducking behind buildings for cover. Sirens could be heard wailing while a woman's voice on a public-address system urged people to take cover.

"I was confused and just shocked," said Spc. Jerry Richard, 27, who works at the center but was not on duty during the shooting. "Overseas you are ready for it. But here you can't even defend yourself."

Soldiers at Fort Hood don't carry weapons unless they are doing training exercises.

Federal law enforcement officials told the Associated Press that Hasan had come to their attention at least six months ago because of Internet postings that discussed homicide bombings and other threats. The officials said they are still trying to confirm that he was the author.

One of the Web postings that authorities reviewed is a blog that equates homicide bombers with a soldier throwing himself on a grenade to save the lives of his comrades.

"To say that this soldier committed suicide is inappropriate. Its more appropriate to say he is a brave hero that sacrificed his life for a more noble cause," said the Internet posting. "Scholars have paralled (sic) this to suicide bombers whose intention, by sacrificing their lives, is to help save Muslims by killing enemy soldiers."

They say an official investigation was not opened.

Hasan was working with soldiers at Darnall Army Medical Center on Fort Hood after being transferred in July from Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where he had worked for six years before recently receiving a poor review.

Cone said the shooter used two guns, including a semi-automatic weapon. He added there was no indication they were military weapons.

The shooting took place 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the post's Soldier Readiness Center, where soldiers undergo medical screening before being deployed or after returning from overseas.

"We have a terrible, tragic situation here," said Cone. "Soldiers, family members and the civilians that work here are absolutely devastated."

Cone said the injuries "vary significantly" among the victims wounded in the shooting.

The shooter's cousin, Nader Hasan, told Fox News that their family is in shock.

"We are trying to make sense of all this," Nader Hasan said. "He wasn't even someone who enjoyed going to the firing range."

He said his cousin, who was born and raised in Virginia and graduated from Virginia Tech University, turned against the wars after hearing the stories of those who came back from Afghanistan and Iraq.

Nader Hasan said his cousin, who was raised a Muslim, wanted to go into the military against his parent's wishes — but was taunted by others after the terror attacks of Sept. 11.

A former neighbor of Hasan's in Silver Spring, Md., told Fox News he lived there for two years with his brother and had the word "Allah" on the door.

She said the FBI interviewed her Thursday afternoon, adding she used to see a woman and a 3-year-old girl coming and going.

Authorities provided little information Thursday about the victims of the rampage at Fort Hood.

George Stratton's son, George Stratton III, was five feet away from the shooter at the Soldier Readiness Center and suffered a gunshot wound to his left shoulder.

"He said he was there doing medical stuff and all of a sudden someone came through the door, walked behind the desk and just started shooting," Stratton told FoxNews.com.

He said about 15 rounds went off and people started dropping to the floor.

"He peaked up over the desk and that's when he was shot in the shoulder, and he just went down again. He said he saw one of his NCOs get badly shot," Stratton told FoxNews.com after talking to his son in the hospital. "After he got shot he told me, 'Dad, I got up, held my arm and took off running.'"

Stratton said his son was expected to be deployed to Afghanistan in January after going to basic training exactly a year ago.

"It's pretty hard to believe something like this happened," Stratton told FoxNews.com. "I think he's probably had his fill of war already."

President Obama called the shooting a "horrific outburst of violence" on members of the nation's armed forces. "It is horrifying that they should come under fire at an army base on American soil," he said

Obama said his thoughts and prayers are with the wounded and families of the fallen.

A spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said they don't know anything about Hasan, and condemned the shooting at Fort Hood.

The group issued a statement calling the shooting as a "cowardly attack." They say no political or religious ideology could ever justify or excuse such violence.

The base and area schools were on lockdown after the mass shooting, and all those on the Army post were asked to gather for a head count, thought the lockdown was lifted Thursday night.

Covering 339 square miles, Fort Hood is the largest active duty armored post in the United States. Home to about 52,000 troops as of earlier this year, the sprawling base is located halfway between Austin and Waco.

FoxNews.com's Michelle Maskaly and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

All Bones Are Healed

Greetings Family and Friends,

I sincerely hope that this letter finds you all doing well and blessed. As it leaves me, it leaves the family and I doing very well.

Well, I had my six week follow up with the orthopedic doctor today and was given some great news. All of my breaks have healed and I have progressed much further along than the doctor had anticipated. The two goals now are to get my right arm as straight as possible (right now we are pushing for 10% range of motion – you other doctors out there should understand what that means, to the rest of you that means my arm is as close to straight as possible), and to conduct an Army Physical Fitness Test at the six month mark. I no longer have to use a cane and stopped using the wheel chair about two weeks ago. As for the hospital bed, I have been sleeping in my own bed for the last three nights. Lastly, I officially return to work tomorrow, 31 Mar, since 5 Feb.

This past Wednesday I had my wires removed from my mouth. My first meal was Ursula’s gumbo (the first time I ever got the chance to have it and it was great). I’m not back to eating steaks just yet, because my gums are still tender. However, in about another week I can resume eating “hard” foods.

Well, I hate to keep this letter short, but I just wanted to pass on the great news. Now that I have reached this stage I am going to stop with the monthly letters and return to the quarterly updates.
Take care and God bless.



‘Gru

Gru Update

It sounds like each day is getting a little better. We will continue to pray that the progress continues to be good and that a complete recovery will come soon. If anyone can overcome all the obstacles, Gru can!

Greetings Family and Friends,

I sincerely hope that this letter finds you all doing well and blessed. As it leaves me, it leaves me doing much better than the last letter.

First off I would like to send out thank yous.

First I want to thank God for allowing me to survive the accident. During that first weekend in the hospital, I did have a doctor tell me that had it not been for my size and the healthy condition that I was in, I probably would not have survived the accident. So thanks to our Father above for not taking me home on 6 Feb.

Thanks to Ursula and my princesses. I always imagined me being the breadwinner and taking care of them, and now here it is they have to adjust their schedules to take care of me. Now of course the unconditional love they have for me they do not see it as a sacrifice, but I just wanted to publicly thank them.

Thanks to all of you. The emails, the prayers, the cards, the phone calls, and the build-a-bear (which resembles my current condition) have truly lifted my spirits and I appreciate it all of it. Ursula has taped your cards to my “hospital room” in the house, so I see them when I lay down to sleep and when I wake up in the morning. Hats off to Rich Thompson, that card had me rolling that it started to hurt my pelvic injury (lol).

As for my present condition, I’m getting better by the day. The progress is slow, but that is fine with me. I don’t want to rush this recovery so that I can come back just as strong, or better, when I fully recover.

Some of the improvements: I can lift my right arm above my head without assistance, I am using the wheelchair less and less, and I am able to complete the exercises through Physical Therapy which includes riding a stationary bike. I can also get myself dressed and undressed, to include put on and tie my shoes, as well as take a shower on my own. Some of these improvements are within the last two weeks.

Some of the still need improvements: lifting my legs on my own when lying on my back (i.e. the leg spreader exercises or flutter kicks). Because of the pelvic injury and the doctors having to split those muscles to repair, my doctor states that that injury will need the full six weeks to repair.

Lastly, I want to ask that you all send up an additional prayer for Evan McQuiston and the men and women that have served our country in Iraq and Afghanistan that are in his situation. Evan was struck by an IED while serving under my command in Iraq. He is about to undergo more surgery and I would like for you all to say a prayer for him. Thanks.

Well, I have rambled on long enough. I just wanted to say thanks and provide everyone with an update.

Take care and God bless,

‘Gru

McGrue Doing Well

Great news from the McGrue household!

Hello Everyone,

Just wanted to pass on a little note to tell everyone that McGrue is doing well. He is walking around, with the support of his 4 point cane. He has been cleared to ride a stationary bike. You know a brotha is bored...lol He is now able to lift his right arm over his head (with a little help) He is at a steady 224. He lost a total of 26 pounds. He still has 3 weeks until his wires are taken out of his jaws. We have found that he is able to go at lease 2 hours without his pain killers.

Short term goals: Lifting his arm completely over his head. Being able to stretch his arm completely out. Walking for a long period of time with the cane. Getting off the narcotic pain meds. And getting his wires out.

Long term
goals: 80% or more use of his arm, walking without his cane and eatting with no pain. Very little weight gain...LOL

I also wanted to tell everyone thank you for the cards. I have covered his wall with them. The girls and I loved the fruit baskets. The build-a-bear was great. McGrue laughed so hard. The cast and crutch was perfect. The flowers in the hospital was a bright spot in the ugly hospital room. Also, Thank you for the prayers. Keep
praying.

Love you all Ursula

Capt. McGrue...Home and Doing Well

I received word on Tuesday that Capt. McGrue was released from the hospital and is doing well. He has lost weight and will probably be losing a lot more since he is going to have his jawwired shut for about 30 more days. Ursula said she is surrounded with family and friends who have been bringing her and the girls meals and giving her a ton of support. She is going to school a couple of days a week and has friends that sit with Capt. McGrue while she attends class.

Ursula was upbeat and very positive. "It won't be easy, but I'll survive." Please continue to keep the McGrue family in your thoughts and prayers.

Capt McGrue Update

I heard from Ursula on Saturday and McGrue had surgery on Thursday to repair his jaw which was broken down the middle and had fractures on both sides. It was quite painful and seems like it hit him the hardest.

Ursula is getting the hospital bed and a wheelchair at the house and they are hoping he gets out of the hospital on Tuesday night or Wednesday. It is going to be a long and hard recovery and I know that continued prayers would be appreciated.

Prayer Request

It has been a while since I posted but I felt everyone should be aware of one of our guys that is in need of some prayers. I received an email from Ursula McGrue yesterday regarding a terrible motorcycle that involved Capt. McGrue. The McGrue's got orders to Guam shortly after returning from Iraq.

Hello Everyone,

I hope this letter finds you and your family well. Our family is truly blessed.

McGrue had an accident Friday (6 Feb 09) morning (Thursday night for y'all in the states) on his motorcycle, CBR1000. He was on his way to work. A truck headed north made a left turn in front of McGrue, headed south, and cut him off. He hit his brakes and flew over his handle bars. He flipped twice in the air (head over foot), hit the truck and then hit the ground. The only thing he remembers is flipping and then being put in the ambulance. Lucky for McGrue he is a stickler on wearing all of his gear (i.e. leather jacket, leather gloves, motorcycle boots and helmet) in this 90 degree heat.

He is going to live but he will never forget this. His head has many bruises, knots, a concussion and his jaw is broken in 2 places. On his left side his collar bone is no longer connected to his sterum. On his right side he has a broken collar bone. His upper arm is broken in 2 places and his shoulder is broken. He has also snapped the tendon in his hips, therefore both hips move freely (not good).

He was in surgery Friday for 6 hours to repair his arm. On Monday he was in surgery for 5 hours to repair his hips. Tuesday he was in surgery for 7 hours to repair both collar bones and his shoulder. I believe on Friday his jaw will be wired closed.

He should be home by this weekend. He sat up for at least 2 hours today. He was not happy. Sitting up wore him out. I don't see him coming home this weekend but the doctors say he will walk a little and sit up before they send him home. He will use a wheelchair for about 2 or 3 months. The military will install the things I need to get him in and out of the shower and bed. As most of y'all know McGrue is 6'2" 250 so I'm going to need as much help as I can get. In a few weeks the 250lbs will change.

So what can I say, I went from FRG Leader to nurse. I am just very thankful that he is alive. When I saw him I kissed him and said, "so we selling it for parts". He just grunted. But earlier this week he told me that he will not get back on his bike. I think he realize that he was only a crack or a twist away from leaving his family.

I'm fine. Y'all know me. I'm just not looking forward to my nursing job that will be starting in the next 2 or 3 days. I hope it is only a 2 or 3 month job. The girls are fine. Just pray that his recovery is fast and that there are no long term problems. The doctors told me he will have artheries in his elbow and maybe his shoulder but everything else should be fine. They have told me that all of his surger have been textbook. No surprises!! They did notice that his wrist doesn't move like it should so they took more x-rays today.

I'm just thankful I am planning for installation of a shower chairs and not a funeral.

Peace, Love and Sanity
Ursula L. McGrue

As most of you will remember, Capt. McGrue received a Purple Heart shortly after being deployed to Iraq. Yesterday when I called Chris with the news and was telling him what a horrible accident it was and how lucky Capt. McGrue was he responded...it's Gru Mom!

Please pray for the McGrue family as they will have many challenges ahead of them. I also praise God that the accident did not take his life. As I told Ursula...God just isn't ready for him! Please post your comments, prayers, and notes to the family and I will make sure they see them. Please encourage others to share in prayers. I will post more information when available.

Giving Thanks!

The title of yesterday's sermon was "Thanksgiving: Giving God Thanks" and was based on Psalms 138: 1-3. Wow, how appropriate! When Chris deployed, I was devastated and wasn't sure if and how I was going to be able to cope. Once I realized that I had to turn it over to God, it became a lot easier.

So many times, we try to take on the world and all its problems by ourselves. We make life much hard than it was intended to be. We forget that God is there to help us, all we have to do is ask.

When our problems are solved or go away, many times we forget to give thanks...we just take it for granted. I survived Chris deployment because God was with us and for that I give thanks.

I have so much to be thankful for! Thanks be to God, for being by Chris' side and returning him home safely!

We have one more to go...Nick! Then we can celebrate!

Proud Member of the Army 3rd ID

I was called to duty in a country far across the sea
To stand the wall against terrorism, so all can be free

I deal with the unknown, hot days and cold night
Living in the darkness, far from all city lights

I stand in the desert, surrounded by sand
Gazing over the horizon, ready to fight in a foreign land

Why am I here, is the question asked of me
To protect any land that wishes for democracy

I live to serve my country in its time of need
A prayer for protection and guidance is my only plea

I am no one special, just a commoner's son
So I joined the U.S. Army, became an "Army of One"

I serve in a proud unit that stands out above the rest
A unit with courage, pride and history which makes it the best

Just look at my left shoulder and you shall see
I am a proud member of the Army 3rd ID!

by 1st Sgt. Jay S.
148th Engineer Detachment
Camp New York, Kuwait

Why My Mother's Day Is Special

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Before I was a Soldier's Mom

This being the second Mother's Day with Chris being in Iraq, I was searching for stories of other Mom's and their thoughts. I came across this poem at Some Soldier's Mom that really hit the spot. I think we can all agree that our lives are just not the same during the deployment.

Before I was a Soldier's Mom

I never tripped over a rucksack or knew the words to the Army song.

I didn't worry whether or not my child could shoot or had "zeroed up".

I never imagined saying, "Good job!" when my child told me he had jumped out of a perfectly good airplane... or when he qualified with a grenade launcher.

I could not have told you the difference between division, brigade, regiment, battalion, company, platoon or squad.

I cheered for Navy.


Before I was a Soldier's Mom

I never looked into a soldier's eyes and cried.

I didn't understand "HOOAH".

I never imagined I could be so gloriously happy over a simple "Hey, Ma."

Before I was a Soldier's Mom -

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.

I slept all night.

I never sat up late staring at a computer screen or woke in the middle of the night just to check if the computer and cell phone were working.


Before I was a Soldier's Mom

I never knew that so few words could affect my life so deeply: Deployment. Bradley. Wounded. and I never knew the alphabet could rob me of breath: OIF. IED. RPG. WIA. KIA.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop my child's hurt.

I didn't weep at the sound of "Taps", the National Anthem or "American Soldier".

I never held back a scream or had my knees go weak at an unexpected knock at the door.


Before I was a Soldier's Mom -

I never had so many sisters! (and brothers) nor so many sons and daughters!

I never felt fear so completely.... and

I never felt such pride.

Help...I'm Being Invaded By Butterflies

As the deployment is coming to an end, I find that my excitement is almost overwhelming. The anticipation of seeing Chris on American soil again has been prayed about and thought about for fourteen long months and it's almost a reality! Every since Lidia's son, Anthony started his journey home (Advon team)I've had butterflies in my stomach. With each returning flight, I get more and more butterflies. The thought of having our guys back is absolutely wonderful!

I can only imagine how the Soldiers are feeling right now. The final days...getting everything packed up, saying goodbye to those staying and the thought of getting back home to their loved ones and the luxaries of the good ole USA has to be a feeling that is undescribable...somewhat the same as a wedding day or the birth of a child.

The past fourteen months have been full of so many emotions. Now my days are being filled with butterflies!!! A great feeling! Welcome Home to those that have arrived safely! To all the others...good luck and have a safe flight home! Until then, I will continue to let my butterflies invade!!

Mom's Battle

MOM'S BATTLE
It's not a fight with a fire and gun
by Sgt. Wm. M. Golden, Jan. 6, 1945

Mom's battle is the toughest one,
Cause it's the kind that's never won.
It's not a fight with fire and gun;
It's all day wondering, "Where's my son"?

It's not a war. It's a fight within.
It's where I'm at, and where I've 'bin?
It's what I eat' am I getting thin?
Am I steering clear of "hell and sin"

Do I pray to God to see me through
My every day, like I used to do?
Am I still the carefree boy she knew?
It's been so long...a year, or two.

It's remembering, when I was small,
How 'round the house I used to crawl:
And the day that I began to walk,
And later when I learned to talk.

The things I said; the things I did
When I was nothing but a kid
It's all these things that haunt Mom's mind,
It's a battle of a different kind.

A day ne'er starts, a day ne'er ends,
Without a prayer that dear Mom sends
To our Heavenly Father up above,
That He'll watch o'er her fondest love.

She has no defense against attack,--
Just prays to God to send me back
She fights her battle for her son
With prayer her weapon...not a gun.

But I guess that's what a Mom is for,--
To guide the son she proudly bore,
Whether he's home or off to war
A guy can't ask his God for more!

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.

Boost From the Brigade

Photo by Robin Trimarchi / Ledger-EnquirerNikki Boyter kisses her fiance, Capt. Steven Austin of Midlothian, Va., upon his return to Fort Benning from Iraq with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team’s advance party Saturday.

Boost from the Brigade
BUSINESSES LOOK TO RECOVER FROM ABSENCE OF 3,800 SOLDIERS OVER PAST 14 MONTHS
BY TONY ADAMS

Valerie Smith vividly remembers when the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team -- a full force of 3,800 soldiers -- shipped out more than a year ago for the war in Iraq.

Kelly Hill, where the unit is housed at Fort Benning, became a virtual ghost town save for a few contractors and a handful of troops remaining behind.

"It has truly impacted our business up here. It has been tough," said Smith, manager of the Kelly Hill Burger King, which cut its hours and staffing dramatically after the March 2007 deployment. "We do miss the soldiers because of their friendly faces and everything when they're coming in. It's just wonderful when they're here."

Well, the cavalry -- and the armor, infantry and artillery -- are on the way. The first wave of 3rd Brigade soldiers arrived over the weekend and the rest are scheduled to be back home by the end of May.

Families and friends they left behind are anxiously awaiting their return. But so are local businesses that rely heavily on the uniformed warriors to keep their financial boats afloat.

Retail outlets, car dealers, restaurants, nightclubs and apartment complexes -- all felt the pain when the 3rd Brigade left for Iraq. They now are looking for a much-needed shot in the arm as the troops -- some who likely have saved thousands of dollars while fighting overseas -- go on an anticipated spending spree in the first few weeks after they return.

The economic ripple should be felt on and off post.

"We expect at least another 5 to 10 percent increase in sales," said Steve Martin, manager of the Main Post Exchange on Fort Benning. "We're definitely bumping up our orders."

The 247,000-square-foot post exchange, which has a variety of food outlets and other vendors, held its grand opening in November. So the 3rd Brigade soldiers, unless they came home briefly during the holidays, haven't seen the facility, which is more than twice the size of the old one.

Martin said he expects electronics to be a hot item for the arriving soldiers, as well as civilian clothing, jewelry and outdoor gear to outfit their homes or apartments.

"If they have families, they're probably going to be buying new grills and patio furniture and stuff like that with the extra money they've got," he said.

Saving for a 'splurge'

The money that some of the 3rd Brigade soldiers have accrued while in the Middle East can definitely add up.

Base pay is exempt from federal income taxes, while the government also offers those serving in a combat zone extra pay ranging from $225 to $450 per month, depending on how hostile of an area they are in.

Those with families also receive a family separation allowance of $250 per month. It kicks in anytime soldiers are ordered away from their loved ones for 30 days or more.

Other benefits include an extra $1,000 per month for any time served beyond a year in a combat zone. And those in combat can deposit up to $10,000 annually in a special savings account with a guaranteed interest rate of 10 percent per year

"A lot of our soldiers do save up that extra money they get from being over there in Iraq," said Evelyn Livermore, a 3rd Brigade readiness support assistant. "A lot of our soldiers are very frugal and they save that money because they want to do something special with their family -- if they are married -- like go on a cruise."

Livermore knows of at least two soldiers who are planning rest and relaxation on the high seas, such as in the Caribbean. She also expects a fair number of them to go car shopping after having driven only Humvees and Bradley Fighting Vehicles for the past year.

"They go out and look for a car because they have a nice, good solid down payment to put on it, which helps lower the interest rate as well as the payment," she said. "That's what we know, and we are expecting."

Of the returning soldiers, about 1,400 are single and 2,400 married. All will initially face a 10-day "reintegration period" in which they clean up and secure equipment and weapons brought back with them.

After that, the block leaves begin, with some soldiers expected to take up to 30 days off to unwind and decompress. Some may travel back to their respective homes across the country. Others may stay right here.

Either way, they'll be pulling out the greenbacks and credit cards. It will be therapeutic, said Livermore, who calls it a bit of a "feel-good" syndrome.

"They'll splurge money on themselves because they had to live in such -- I don't want to call it primitive conditions -- but if you and I look at it, it's not our typical conditions that we live in," she said. "They had to give up a lot being over there. So for them to come back into the regular world we know, they're going to go ahead and splurge on themselves, which is to be expected."

Cars, food likelyon troops' wish lists

That's what Rob Doll, owner of the Nissan dealership in Columbus, is anticipating. He should know, having served a lengthy period of time in combat during the Vietnam War.

"When I came home, I had been without for two years and I had money saved up and I wanted a new car, I wanted a new stereo, and where I didn't have a lot of resources to get them before, I had them now," he said.

Doll said his auto business suffered immediately once the 3rd Brigade troops left, although the overall economy has put a hurt on sales as well. He didn't track his military customer numbers, but he knows there will be what he calls a "boomerang" or "yo-yo" effect with the troops, having left 14 months ago, now returning with their hard-earned money.

"When they come back, we'll get that boomerang or that rubber-band effect in two months, and probably 80 percent of it in the first month they're back," Doll said. "It's just great to have 'em back, but the economic impact certainly cannot be overlooked. It's going to be very good."

Reuben Gentry, manager of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar on Gentian Boulevard, agrees. There was a noticeable decline in sales when the 3rd Brigade left last year, and it has been exacerbated by the general public cutting back on spending as gas prices have risen.

"You can check any restaurant's sales trends," he said. "Everything dropped as soon as they left. All of the economy dropped, especially here in Columbus -- housing, restaurants, everything."

An infusion of 3,800 people into the market, many with families, will be just what the financial doctor ordered, said Gentry, who plans to staff up as the soldiers return and fan out through Columbus to spend.

"They've been over there and haven't had any time back home," he said. "So their bank accounts are pretty fat, at least the single soldiers are anyway. The married soldiers, I'm sure they have their spouses back home making sure they spend their money properly."

The boost looks to extend to local nightlife. Clubs and bars no doubt want a piece of the action when the soldiers return. That's why some, including The Catwalk, an adult club fronting Veterans Parkway in north Columbus, have already put welcome messages to the troops on their marquees.

"Everybody notices when they leave. Everybody notices when they come back," said Larry Hamilton, manager of the club. He estimates that 40 percent of his clientele is military, with each soldier spending $20 to $25 per visit. "They don't come in and blow a whole bunch of money," he said.

Housing market to benefit. There will be absolute necessities to spend on, however. And housing is a biggie.

Brighton Park Apartments on Warm Springs Road already has had six soldiers decide to stay at the 224-unit complex, said assistant manager Renee Scurry. Apartments range from $685 for one bedroom to $950 for three bedrooms.

"We've had quite a few who have called from Iraq and we've had several that either their spouse or their parent has a power of attorney and they have contacted us," Scurry said. "We have several others that are in the works."

Greystone Properties also has fielded numerous calls from military people needing a place to stay, said Evelyn Barfield, the apartment company's chief operating officer.

Requests have come in the form of phone calls, e-mails and Web site queries. Greystone has nearly 2,200 apartment units in Columbus, ranging from about $650 to $1,600 per month.

"We have had a lot of requests for returns," Barfield said. "The military who were in our properties prior to leaving are calling requesting to return."

Will White, a partner in Greystone Properties LLC, said the apartment market did soften up when the 3rd Brigade departed last year. He believes the market bottomed out last fall, making it one of the softest in seven or eight years.

But the sector -- which has about 14,000 apartment units locally -- appears to be turning the corner and moving back toward a 94-percent occupancy rate, White said. The 3rd Brigade's return may push that even higher.

"A healthy apartment market is considered to be from 94 percent and above," he said. "When you get into 97 percent and above -- which we had going back maybe three or four years ago -- that is considered to be abnormal. And we've seen a lot of construction partly as a result of that."

My Band of Mothers

Yesterday was a glorious day for my friend, Lidia Martinez and her family...Anthony arrived home after a second deployment from Iraq. I met Lidia the day (or maybe I should say days, since there were several unsuccessful attempts to leave) the Advon team deployed for Iraq. Chris, Nick and Anthony all left together. I didn't know anyone else standing at the fence watching the guys walk away. A kind lady offered me an American flag to wave as the boys were walking away. After the busses pulled away, we introduced ourselves to each other and discovered we had a lot in common...both of us just had part of our hearts get on a bus and head to Iraq, we were both from Texas, we both believed that God was going to bring them back safely, and we both were sad and knew that we had fifteen months of tough days.

We have all heard of the bond that our Soldiers make with one another when they serve...Band of Brothers. Well, I can honestly say that the same thing happens with Moms. During the fifteen month deployment, I have survived in part because of my "Band of Mothers". We have been there for one another through the good times and the bad. We have shared our lives...our worries, fears, disappointments, excitements, proudness...our good days and our bad days.

Just as the Soldiers will have a lifetime bond, so do the Moms. Bernadette and Lidia are two special Moms that are a big part of my Band of Mothers and will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you ladies for our special bond!

Even though Chris was not on the flight yesterday, my day started out with butterflies in my stomach. I was so excited that Lidia's journey was coming to an end. I even had the alarm set on my phone so I could be a part of the moment he was to land. Even though we were thousands of miles apart, I felt like I was a part of the homecoming...my heart was with them.

Chris and Nick still have a little more time to go, but for many, the journey has ended. Welcome home, Anthony and all others. Thank you doesn't even begin to say home much you are appreciated!

You're Welcome

For all the free people that still protest, you’re welcome,
We protect you and you are protected by the best.
Your voice is strong and loud, but who will fight for you?
No one standing in your crowd.

We are your fathers, brothers, and sons,
wearing the boots and carrying the guns.
We are the ones that leave all we own,
to make sure your future is carved in stone.

We are the ones who fight and die.
We might not be able to save the world, well at least we try.
We walked the paths to where we are at
and we want no choice other than that.

We when you rally your group to complain,
take a look in the back of your brain.
In order for that flag you love to fly,
wars must be fought and young men must die.

We came here to fight for the ones we hold dear.
If that’s not respected, we would rather stay here.
So please stop yelling and put down your signs,
and pray for those behind enemy lines.

When the conflict is over and all is well,
be thankful that we chose to go through hell.

Unknown

Coming Home: Coping Strategies for Parents of Those Who Serve

The day a son or daughter comes home from combat is a precious moment for any parent. Our anticipation is great, whether this is their first combat experience or just one of many times that their military service has exposed them to the dangers of combat. As parents,“coming home” relieves our anxiety and fills us with joy.

Reflecting on our experiences, I compiled some ideas that I would like to share with other parents in the hope that they will benefit from our family’s experiences. Quite simply, I suggest that parents of returning service members:

• Hug them hard and allow yourself to cry – remember your son or daughter just came home from combat – you all need the physical and emotional contact
• Remember that there is a “honeymoon” period when they first come home, enjoy every minute of it – it may last an hour, a day, a week and for each of us this experience will be a bit different
• Give them space, they need it. Give yourself some space and time as well, you need it
• Some of those who return want to talk about what they have been doing and others would rather not. Let your son or daughter be the guide
• Remember that they have lived under very stressful conditions, some more than others, depending on where they have been deployed or what their military occupational specialty is
• Understand their remarks and attitude often reflects a way of life they had to adopt to survive – don’t take it personal
• Understand that they may be overwhelmed by questions and having to interact with too many people – if they look for privacy don’t take it personal
• Give your son or daughter the space to acclimate to being home in the United States and recognize that they will have to set their own pace – you can’t rush it
• Give them your unconditional love, as parents it is the greatest gift we have to offer our sons and daughters. Again, don’t take it personally if they can’t reciprocate, give them time, don’t take it personal.
  

Finally, I have coped with the past three and a half years by writing essays on how all of this has affected our lives and, even more importantly, reaching out to other parents of those who serve. A most profound moment was when we, the support group of moms I belong to, discovered that we all think about our deployed son or daughter nearly every minute of every day (and every night). Sometimes our kids linger in the back of minds and more often they are in the forefront – we feel consumed with worry and concern. In our world we found this was normal behavior, and as an Army mom so aptly stated it is our “new normal”. As parents who share a special bond, we need to support one another.

By,

Mary Ward, MS, MPA – mother of a soldier

Soldiers Receive Welcome Home, But Also Get Readjusted

BY MICK WALSH - mwalsh@ledger-enquirer.com --
Perhaps as early as next week, the terminal at Lawson Army Airfield will be brimming with family members, friends, media, USO volunteers, the Infantry Center band and even a high-ranking garrison officer or two.

They will have come, no matter the hour or distance, to welcome home the soldiers of the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team (one of President Bush's "surge" brigades) from 15 months of duty at posts in and around Baghdad, Iraq.

After the band plays and the soldiers are discharged to go home to more family and friends, the process of reintegration will continue on from its beginnings in Iraq. "We're training our soldiers on how to convert from a war front mentality to a home front mentality," said Capt. Anthony Randall Friday from an office at the Forward Operating Base Hammer.

"The process actually begins 60-90 days before we redeploy." Randall will be the only chaplain in the advance party of the brigade that will arrive at Lawson Airfield sometime next week. As Randall waits for the brigade in order to begin the reintegration process, other activities to help soldiers readjust will be going on, too. Other Chaplains will conduct a Spouses Retreat. This retreat is a three-day event for spouses and children of deployed soldiers, designed to help them prepare for the arrival of their loved ones.

Capt. Stephen Miller, the rear detachment commander for the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, is also a reintegration planner.

It is his job to keep the process going from the moment the planes touch down on the Lawson tarmac.

"They've been going through the pre-deployment checklist the last few weeks," said Miller, who has made two deployments to Iraq himself. "Yeah, I've seen it from both sides."

Miller will be part of the greeting party when the advance group arrives.

"After they check in their weapons and other sensitive items, we show them a video message from Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch, our division commander, one that really stresses soldier safety. For example, the soldiers can't drive a vehicle for the first 24 hours they're here and when they're given a 48-hour pass they can't travel more than 120 miles from post. The general takes the reintegration process seriously."

Once soldiers return from their initial break, they are required to attend 10 half-days of classes, covering such topics as domestic violence, anger management and suicide prevention.

"Every soldier in the brigade is required to go through this process," said Miller. "We start right off with how to communicate with spouses, how to recognize signs that could lead to suicide, drinking and driving... . We try to get them to understand the number of changes they've gone through during the deployment."

All personnel must complete the reintegration training before the unit is allowed to take a 30-day block leave.

Re-educating soldiers on family issues is a monumental task for Miller and his team, but he still feels his group can handle up to 600 soldiers a day.

There's also another aspect of the return of the troops that cannot be overlooked: work of the brigade's Family Readiness Group. The group's support assistant is Evelyn Livermore, and she insures that every arrival, whether it is 1 a.m. or 1 p.m., receives a proper "Welcome Home."

Single soldiers, who account for about half of the brigade, will be especially taken care of.

In past redeployments, those unattached soldiers were taken by bus to their barracks on Kelley Hill and dropped off. Some had to bed down in their sleeping bags.

But that has changed, said Livermore recently. Thanks to corporate donations, each soldier will have linens and personal items.

"BOSS (Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers) has 120 volunteers who will decorate the barracks and make beds, and Family Readiness will put out care packages," Livermore said

Miller states that even though a list of redeployment tasks has been required by the Army since the 2003 deployment to Iraq, the system of integrating soldiers back into society has become much more efficient with time.