Holidays are around the corner and I'm here in Iraq. Surrounded by thousands of service members who are away from their families, loved ones, and the good 'ol USA - and trust me after living in some austere places around the world...we have it really good at home. As Thanksgiving is next week, I've been reflecting on all of the positive things occuring in my life and what is yet to come. 33 years old and I know I haven't hit my prime yet!

I'm still very thankful that Joe and Lisa were able to come over here to talk to us and show that there are people at home thinking about our welfare and health. That's something that keeps me going, each day, each night, despite occasional rocket attacks and explosive devices being targeted to take our lives. The people of our beloved homeland keep me going. You all! This is why I serve in these austere conditions. I can't say that I agreed with our country's original motive to come here but there are significant contributions that can be made.Nothing's free and nothing's guaranteed but I'm proud to be here helping to establish a more stable, sovereign nation in this vulnerable area of the world.

Anyhow, thanks for all of the support and "thank you's" in the airports, streets, or other public places. We appreciate very much! And will never attenuate it due to it becoming more "popular" to thank a troop.

For all of you reading this back home, appreciate what you have every day and we're all here to help so don't hesitate to ask!

Carpe diem!

SFI (Soldier From Iraq)

"You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step" -MLK

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