Laura's Corner
I work very hard and am attending college to obtain my degree in the Human Service field. Writing makes me feel alive and gives me the opportunity to touch those whom I would not be able to otherwise. Last but not least, I have been blessed with two amazing daughters who love me completely and support my dreams. Feel free to contact me with questions, concerns or feedback.
Straight from the Soldier's Mouth....
With the current election closing in on us, most of us are pretty set regarding who we are going to vote for. One of the main concerns of us as an American people is our National Security and the War at this time.
Being a member of the United States Army, I can honestly state I support our troops. I have many friends who have not only served, but have been deployed numerous times. I received an honorable discharge in 1991. My children's father served a 1 year tour in Kabul, Afghanistan which I believe changed his life. My children and their father kept in touch via letters and email.
My daughter recently sent a survey via email to Soldiers serving in Afghanistan. I am including their rank, marital status and the most poignant question within the survey. I believe it is important to share this information due to the upcoming election. I look forward to comments from all.
HOW HAS YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON THE WAR CHANGED SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WAR?:
A Private First Class on her first tour. She is married and her husband is deployed as well: "It hasn't. I still do not think that we're doing the right thing here. However, my feelings for the people here have changed. I have become more conscious of how lucky I am to be a US Citizen."
A Sergeant Major on his 3rd tour. He is married with one little girl, born last August: "It hasn't changed at all. Many people wished they knew how to help after 9-11, or they wondered how the war would affect them in the future. Those of us on active duty had a unique opportunity to immediately contribute to the safety and security of our nation, and our families. We had the training, resources, and position to respond to this or any crisis, so the war simply gave focus to what we already do."
A Staff Sergeant on his 4th tour. He is married and has two sons: "I would have to say that my perspective on this war in Afghanistan has grown from being skeptical as to why we are actually here. It's really understanding and believing in what we are doing to help establish a reputable and reliable Democratic government for these people. We are seeing the effects of our efforts more now than ever before. As the Afghan people are doing most of the building now, we merely assist when and wherever necessary."
A Staff Sergeant on his 7th tour. He is not married and does not have children: "Not much. I still believe that with more resources this country can be fully returned to its people with hopes of prosperity and a bright future."
A Lieutenant Colonel on his 3rd tour. He is married with two children: "The Afghanistan war has always been a justified endeavor."
A Captain/0-3 on his 2nd tour. He is married with two children: "My perspective has remained the same. We are here to help this country and we have made some good, positive gains."
A Captain on his 2nd tour. He is not married but has one child: "My perspective has significantly changed as I have been exposed to the strategic objectives and end-states to nation building and fighting and insurgency. Daily I am in awe of what our military force is doing on a daily basis."
A Corporal on his 1st tour. He is married and does not have children: "War is largely misunderstood by most of the world."
A Major on his 2nd tour. He is married with a son who is 7 and a daughter who is 5: "I realize that the job of rebuilding a government is more difficult than I would have ever imagined. But, it has also made me realize just how much the US government does for us, so hopefully I will no longer take that for granted."
A Master Sergeant on his 2nd tour. He is married and has 3 children: "I still firmly believe that both the wars we are in right now NEED to be continued. There are amazing stories being taken every day here in Afghanistan. The people of Afghanistan need our help. While I do not enjoy being away from my family, seeing friends and fellow soldiers die, I do see a need for us to be here. I am disappointed by the level of support we receive from the States. Many political figures and their followers SAY they support us but stab us in the back at every opportunity. Supporting the military does not mean crying that the war is lost and screaming "bring them home". It means doing what needs to be done so we can win, then coming home when the job is finished."
A Major on his 2nd tour. He is married and has two children, ages 5 and 10: "The biggest change, having seen both theatres is the totally different fights between Afghanistan and Iraq. Much of the American public either does not know what's going on in Afghanistan or thinks it is a very similar environment to Iraq. We are now working to get this country at the point where they are capable of standing on their own two feet. The literacy rate is extremely low, and many of the citizens can't complete basic reading, writing and math skills. The infant mortality rate is 2nd in the world only to Africa. I enjoy the job we do here: we are supporting the under-dog in our efforts to prosecute the Global War on Terror (GWOT). We are facing a very determined enemy that is try to pursue a worldwide ideology of Islamic Extremism. We deal with people of the Muslim faith on a daily basis, and the majority of them want the basic needs in life; a peaceful existence where they can work hard and provide for their families."
If you look closely, notice how many tours the above soldiers have mentioned. A tour can last anywhere from 6 months to years. Our soldiers have given their lives on a regular basis to serve and protect our country. Most will continue to serve and possibly even retire out after 20 years. Being a soldier is a tough job. While most of us sit at home justifying our own beliefs regarding the war, we will never truly understand what it's like to leave the comfort and stability we so enjoy. It is because of the US Military that we are allowed our freedoms and I believe it's time that we listen to what they have to say. Even if you do not agree with the War at hand, please remember the sacrifice of our soldiers and their family members.
Thank you, again, to everyone who has given their lives for our freedom, the freedom we so often take for granted.
GOD BLESS YOU!
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