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Dear Chris,

From your sunny homelands in Plant City Florida, I write you With lots of hugs and kisses, and gratefulness from the bottom of my heart. I'am a christian woman in my mid 40's and I have a friend who is a X navy man. THANKS. I PRAY FOR YOU AND ALL OF THE MILITARY! When I go to sleep at night, I think about you guys, I pray for your safty, and ask for blessing to be on your life for all you do! Thank you for making it safe for me and mine to sleep tonight.We do Love you guys, no matter what they say, there are many who do feel you guys and what you go threw, and we pray in our churchs, there are special days set aside just for our Military I know this may not seem like much. But one day it will be all you need!!
THANKS FOR WHAT YOU DO
Marie Carpenter, May 28, 2004

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Just found your blog (via Instapundit, then Blackfive) & boy, am I glad I did. You guys are the greatest. Too bad you don't write for the news - it might be worth giving the media another try. My husband & I pray for you all every night.
And we are so grateful for you all.
Janet D. Marlboro, NY, May 27, 2004
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hey chris~

i just wanted to shoot you an e-mail in addition to the reply i posted on your blog. that entry you wrote about brickfoot really touched the guys more than you can even imagine... i'm really good friends with those guys and when i received an email from them this morning, all they could do was praise you and say how much what you said to them meant... and in turn that means a lot to me...

i myself had been in two different rotc programs a few years ago but due to an injury i could no longer participate... i do have a bunch of friends that are still in the military and are in different stages of their tours... a part of me really wishes i could still fight for my country... however because i cannot i have a very large respect and appreciation for those who continue fighting... it means so much to me as an american to know that you are putting your life on the line to not only preserve what rights i already have, but you are also fighting to bring those rights to others...from the bottom of my heart.. thank you... thank you for everything you are doing and everything you have already done!

if there is anything i can do please do not hesitate to ask... again thank you so much for your duties and your kind words .. it really meant a lot to them and to us over here as well... may this find you in safety! hope you are well and hope to hear from you soon!!

~kenz, May 24, 2004

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Dear Sgt. Missick,
I just saw your site for the first time. I love your poem and your writings. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. I wish you well and you and all our military will be in my continued prayers. Thank you so much for all you do.
Debbie S., May 24, 2004

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hi sgt missick
man that was one the nicest stories ive heard in a long time. its so amazing that happened. steve from brickfoot was so excited too that he wrote me as well to tell me about it. its such a wonderful story.i swear it made me smile and feel good too that they could do that for you. but thank you for all you are doing in iraq. i really pray you will be safe. i saw you lived in sacramento too! i went to school there. well i hope you can come back to california soon. please take care and i saw you have an address to send stuff. i was wondering it was ok to send cds to you? im not sure what you guys are allowed to recieve but i would love to send something to you. well thanks again and thanks again for what you are doing for us
xo
charlie, sweetadeline.net, May 23, 2004

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Great site, and gratz on your promotion.

Charles Crail, May 21, 2004

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Missick,
I was happy to find your site. I read your blogs everyday and I am proud of all the work you are doing. You are a true "Hero." Yesterday, I thought of you when I was at a motivational gathering. Private Jessica Lynch took the stage and spoke about her time in the war. It was great to hear first hand what happened and how her rescue went down. It was much different from what was reported in our "liberal" media. This reminded me of your blogs and I wish your information would be reported rather than information that is tainted and skewed. Your insight is wonderful and you are blessed with an amazing talent of portrayal. You are a true American. If I were worthy of saluting you I would.
Stay true to your faith, as I know you will and keep up the good work.
"May God Bless America"
J.R. Wheeler, May 20, 2004

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You have every right to be proud of your leadership, and your promotion. I watched the Generals testify and I was impressed. I don’t think they will have any qualms following the investigation of Abu Ghraib up the chain of command. You are a member of the finest military the world has ever witnessed. Not just in technology and brute power, but also the quality of personnel, at all ranks, a warrior class that has not forgotten what it means to be human. I always point out that the Generals of today were the lower and middle managers during Vietnam; they applied their lessons learned very well, and never forgot what it was like to be on the ground with the troops. Couple that with the downsizing that occurred during the last decade, and there just isn’t much dead wood left in the organization.
JG, May 20, 2004
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I totally support what you and your fellow soldiers are doing to breathe freedom into that region. It sickens me to see what a few here are doing to smear the noble and courageous job you and your men are doing over there and the sacrifices each of you are making.

I'm sitting here at work at my computer and can only imagine the working, as well as living, condtions with which you have to endure. I can't tell you enough how much I admire, respect and thank each one of you for what you are doing for our country.

I know we are doing the right thing for humanity and I say thanks everyday that we do have young men and women who are willing to fight for our freedom, as well as trying to give another country that sweet taste of freedom.

Thank you!!
Cheryl, May 20, 2004

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great blogging and congrats on the promotion.
I have great confidence in your and the rest of the military to achieve the objectives
set out by the president to defeat the terrorists.

these changing fortunes of war will ultimately force the politicians on the Hill to positively recognize the sacrifice and the contribution of the military
In the War on Terror.

jon lund USMC 73-76, May 20, 2004

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In general there seems to be a lack of respect from some against those who do not conform or agree with their political/philosophical positions. Typically the lack of respect is more or less rude and often seems to come from individuals who are on one hand asking for all to be treated with dignity and respect and on the other rude in the guise of simple disagreement. I do wonder if there ever has been a time when media/general population have been genuinely respectful of those they disagree with.
Excellent article!
Elizabeth, May 20, 2004
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Congratulations Sergeant Missick!
Thank you for your service, first and foremost - and in addition, thank you for your amazing commentary. Keep the faith, stay strong, America is truly behind you.

Cheers,

Keith, May 20, 2004

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Missick: Congrats on your promotion. This democrat's heart is filled with gratitude and admiration for you and our troops. Tell them so, OK? I understand that the democracy I live in was paid for with the blood of our citizens. I support both the troops and OUR mission. We are in this together.
Alice, May 20, 2004

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Congradulations Sergeant Missick. Thank you for your service and excellence.
Moze, May 19, 2004

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Wow. Congratulations on your promotion and all that you have learned and accomplished. You are an eloquent writer and an intelligent communicator. I wish you well for the remainder of your deployment, and all the best when you return to the great ol' USA!!!! Take care!
Susan, May 19, 2004
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Two words, CONGRATULATIONS and AMEN!!! Thanks for your words from the front. Be safe and you are in my prayers.
Brandee, May 19, 2004

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Congrats SGT on your recient promotion!!

With the other well wishers would like to pass along my support for the troops! Keep up the good work sir.
Jeff, May 19, 2004

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Congratulations and chin up! You all have TONS of support from here at home!!!
Elizabeth, May 19, 2004

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glad i found your site and thanks for writing. your point about the internet is well taken. only through the internet have i found like-minded people who spread the word on the work you and all our armed forces are performing under very difficult circumstances. the internet has allowed me to avoid t.v. news and newspapers entirely.you guys are working miracles and the news orgs. can only talk about prison abuse. best wishes and a speedy, safe return. scott
scott holmes, May 18, 2004

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Congratulations, Sgt Missick.

You have much to be proud of.

Don't let the hippie wanna-bees get you down. They may be loud, but they are incoherent and do not speak for America. I look at these people and I shake my head at an entire sub-culture of people who have never had to struggle and prove themselves in anything of consequence. You and your comrades are the true Americans. Your struggle is not taken for granted.

You have a great blog - keep up the thoughtful and informative posts.
hofmac, May 18, 2004

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Congratulations, SERGEANT Missick. I bet it feels great to hear and see that. Great job on working hard to be promoted, and for receiving the rewards of that work.

I liked your analogy of dead trees being removed in regards to the few soldiers who abused prisoners at Abu Ghraib. It brings to mind that when a tree does die in the forest, it will eventually decay on the forest floor, and when it does it becomes compost. Compost serves to fertilize the remaining plants and trees to help them grow bigger and stronger. May this unfortunate incident act as a "compost" to those who are still in the military, and especially in Iraq to encourage them to become stronger and more honorable soldiers. I think in your promotion, we have seen that happen. Keep up the good work!
Kiki B., May 18, 2004

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Well, it is sergeant now. Sergeant Missick, I remember when you where doing well to spell, Sigma Phi Epsilon. Congrats on the promotion. Now you are a leader of men [not manager]. Remember you lead by example and your troops always come first. You take care of your troops in garrison and they will take care of you in the field. See, you still get my lectures even when you are 6k miles away. Chapter is doing well, they earned the Dean's Trophy. Semper Fi
Old Navy Corpsman, May 18, 2004

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CONGRATULATIONS, Sergeant Missick!! We are proud of you, too! A fabulous and well-deserved honor. Your parents must be beaming. Lead well. Your soldiers count on you.

PS I sure hope someone took pictures and that you post them!!
CMLois , May 18, 2004

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Congratulations! I am so proud of our military. I am not proud of those Americans who would denegrate our toops, our cause and our leaders.
I lived through WW2, Korea, Vietnam and never have I seen such negative media coverage. It was great in the march to Bagdad and since has gone steadily downhill. The Iraqi blogs and yours help me keep the faith. God bless you and your comrades.
Pat in NC, May 18, 2004

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Hi Chris,

I have recently found your blog through BlackFive (http://www.blackfive.net/main/) and have enjoyed reading thus far. First off thank you so much for your service to our country and the Iraqi people for your efforts overseas! My heart goes out to you and all your comrades!

Sincerely,
Jeff Giesbrecht, May 18, 2004

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I'm grateful for your service, your attitude, and now the fact that I can regularly check in via your blog.
Hats off to you sir. You make Americans proud.
-Rick, May 17, 2004
http://www.brutallyhonest.org

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Keep up the good work, you write incredibly well! It is depressing to read about these lunatics in California, enemies right in our own back-yard. But it just proves to me that we have to be vigilant and keep on fighting all the people who would do us harm, whether at home or abroad. Of course you are doing exactly this-and for people you don't even know. Me and my family thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Stay safe and keep blogging.
diana, May 15, 2004

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I'm glad to have found your blog. It's wonderful you are writing your experiences!

As horrible as it is that some people would like to say they believe the murder of Nicholas Berg was a hoax - well... the sound of his screams can't be forgotten.

Keep writing!
Elizabeth, May 15, 2004

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I recently requested to have my blog linked from Iraq the Model. They reply was quite nice:
Dear Sir,
I'll certainly link to your blog, this is the least i can do to express my gratitude to you and your colleagues in the US army and marines.
best wishes,
Omar. Iraq the Model, May 14, 2004

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I was in Navy 1968 to 1972. Crypto maintenance, Naval Security Group. First overseas duty was Morocco.
At that time too, many things were happening that in fact were never ended. Our generation handed it over to you folks. Our fathers gave it to us. But you know, we may not have solved the problem but we ALL, through the generations, have keep our freedom and liberty. For so many that dont know what it even means. Its not a 'right', its EARNED and paid for by you people that choose to continue to keep us free.
My heart goes out to you and GOD bless you.
I remember the oath I took, and its a lifelong oath, "I will defend the constitution of the United States of America against all enemys, foreign or domestic".

Thank you for what you do.
No one told us that during Viet Nam.
I would die for you as you would for me.
I love you, brother...

Kermit, May 13, 2004

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Hi Chris,
...It is so refreshing to see and hear about a young republican leading the charge... Keep up the good work, thanks for your service and our best to you !!!

Gail Koval, May 13, 2004

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Hi Chris,
Good luck over there. I'm glad to hear that you're *relatively* safe. I read your blog everyday.

Ben Leroy, May 12, 2004

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Dropping you a note from my office (I'm a Legal Assistant in a law firm in NYC). Your blog is great -- you either have lots of time to write OR you type fast... whatever the means, it is very informative and I appreciate that you take the time and make the effort. I am an Army mom (19 yr old son shortly on his way to your little corner of the world -- ok, so I'm trying to stay upbeat)... I'm also a Navy mom (one serving career man, one "ok 4 yrs is plenty" & out). I'm also the wife of a retired (25 yrs. E-1 to O-6) Navy man. As for the Army son, his dad likes to say that every family must have its black lamb for balance... the son says it's because he's the smartest of the family men :-} Dad did two tours in Vietnam, so we are of course mentally wild with worry at our son's imminent deployment... but we support our sons and we will do whatever we need to do HERE to be sure he and all of you have whatever you need THERE to ensure a safe and successful mission.

Take care of yourself. Remember, if everyone else is ducking, you duck, too!

Regards, Carla Lois, May 6, 2004

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Hey! My name is Monique and I'm 20 years old... I began supporting the troops in April of 03 when i joined SOM (supporting our marines.. but we support all branches) I plan to do so for the rest of my life! I have had the opportunity to get to know some of the most amazing people on the face of this earth.. I really enjoied what I had the time to read of your entries... I will most def. continue to read and check back for updates! :)
I just wanted to say thank you for all that you do. I know you must hear it all the time.. but honestly you guys can't hear it enough to fully thank you... Your hard work will one day pay off and your bravery and courage will be remembered throughout history. There are no words that can properly thank you.. there is only the undying gratitude that is in the hearts of all the thankful Americans back home. I know that I will be forever grateful for your commitment to our country. Without men like you this world would be a sad place.... So if you would like to keep in touch or know anyone who could use a letter to cheer them up, get me their address and I can submit them to my group! :) (to learn more go to www.supportingourmarines.com) I hope you have a spectacular day... Stay safe! And SMILE, because YOU are my hero! :)
Smiles,
Monique D, May 4, 2004

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Please let me know if you NEED or WANT anything! I wish there were more I could do to show my support of you and ALL of our men and women serving our country....
Be SAFE,
Love,
Angie
Angie Crowly, April 24, 2004

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I spent the afternoon in Sac and that city is just not the same for me without you. I send prayers up as often as I think of you and trust God has his loving arms wrapped around you. Take these words from Neh.1:5 and make them your own."I said I beseech You, O Lord God of heaven and earth, the great and awesome God, who preserves the covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments. Let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open to hear the prayer of your servant which I am praying before You now, day and night,..." He will great you every morning with those lovingkindnesses.
Love from all the crazy Rodgers!!!
Elena Rodgers, April 23, 2004

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We were thrilled to hear from you. We had tried to reach your parents but could not get a phone number from Information. Then, your message came in like a burst of sunshine! Yes, Someone is watching over you. And, of course, you are in our prayers and thoughts all the time.
Best Personal Regards,
Fred and Pat Hildebrand April 21, 2004

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Thank you so much for all you do for our country…I think about you guys over there often, and hope you guys stay safe. I pray that God keeps you safe and you come back soon!
Cambria King, April 21, 2004

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The business is doing very well, He talks about you all the time, in between talking all the time, in other words He doesn't shut up. Be safe and I can't wait till you get back and tell us all about THE BIG ADVENTURE. I will stay in touch. Jim
Jim Gonzalez, April 19, 2004

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Keep your eyes open and most of all listen to the Holy Spirits still small voice and DO WHAT IT TELLS you no matter how foolish it might seem at the moment. Once again all I can do is turn you over to the Lord
and the word of His Grace. All is well here and the people support the pres. and the troops.
Love, Uncle Bob
Robert Christman, April 19, 2004

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Just saw some news from there. They have an ambulance driver who is 9 yrs. old carries a big machine gun. Unreal. I'm sure you'll have alot to tell when you get home. How are you doing anyway Ok? We keep you in our prayers & thoughts constantly so be careful & write when you can. Love Ya, Uncle Jim & Aunt Eve, Jimmy too.
James Christman, April 17, 2004

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First and foremost, hope you're safe as you can be, and I expect you to run the US one day!
Connie Pedenko, April 14, 2004

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Every meeting we say a prayer specifically for you and Matthew Bopp, Jim & Barbara's son, who is Afganistan. Let us know if we can send you anything--I'm told that it's not too hard to send some things directly to a specific address. Please pass on our best wishes to all your fellow soldiers--we are all so very proud of you guys/gals and keep you all in our thoughts and prayers daily. We had a great "support the troops" rally at the capitol last month and plan more of them. It was great to hear from you Chris--take care and write again soon.
God Bless,
Donna
Donna Schalansky April 12, 2004