bryanstrawser.com

we have a grandson who has just been sent to AL ASAD and i was looking for information on Al ASAd ans hope to be able to get e mails from in due time ,,, thank you Ruth Cullison

I have a son who is in Al asad, can you give me some information on it like where it is I cant find it on the Iraq map

I also have a son who is at Al Asad Airbase. My son has been there sine February 2004 and I find that he is able to send out emails once a week, however, they are short in length. If you send over AT&T International calling cards to your Marine, he will be able to call you while he is there. (must be AT&T) A 500 minute card is worth 25 minutes of international calling time to the states. For more information on the base, I found this site several months ago. It helps to be able to see where our Sons are in Iraq. I hope this site will also help you too!

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iraq/al-asad.htm

Good luck and take care,

I know Marines posted at Al Asad airbase. They have the availability to purchase phone cards there on base at the PX for much cheaper than we can get them for. They get them at a cost of $0.32 a minute. http://www.i-mef.usmc.mil/msc/1fssg/KVN/deployedunits.html That is the unit web page. There are also pictures from Iraq. Have faith in our Marines. They are in the best of company... each other. Semper Fi and God Bless our Marines!
Proud Marine Wife.

I HAVE A SON AT ALASAD ALSO. HE IS TRANSPORTING OUR FALLEN MARINES TO KUWAIT FOR THEIR FINAL JOURNEY HOME. GOD BLESS ALL OF OUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS ARE OVER IN IRAQ AND FOR A SAFE RETURN HOME!! PROUD MARINE MOM

I HAVE A SON AT ALASAD ALSO. HE IS TRANSPORTING OUR FALLEN MARINES TO KUWAIT FOR THEIR FINAL JOURNEY HOME. GOD BLESS ALL OF OUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS WHO ARE OVER IN IRAQ AND FOR A SAFE RETURN HOME!! PROUD MARINE MOM

Hi! Where is this place, Al Asad? My son is there and it is driving me crazy that I can't find it. What city is it near? Anyone?

Al Asad airbase is approx. 35 miles weast of Fallugah for those wanting to know.

My husband just got sent over to Iraq, and even though I am an active duty Marine I do not know much about Al Asad. I know it is an airbase where the 3MAW is mostly at but does anybody know more details? Please e mail info if you have
Semper Fi
Proud Marine Wife

I am in the Marine Corps with a Helo unit in
MAG-42 Det. B, 4th MAW, and I am headed to Al Asad on August 30th - just 3 weeks from today... Our advance party Marines just arived in Kuwait today, and are headed there by convoy to set up our unit's gear prior to us (the main body) arriving. All I know about Al Asad is that it is very hot and dry, and the intensity there (attacks, etc.) is very low. At least compared to the other cities and towns in Iraq that you've heard about on the news... From our breifings so far, the air base is about 120 miles West of Baghdad, 80 West of Fallugha, and about 35 miles South of the Euphrates River in the Al Anbar region of Iraq. Basically, it's a pretty desolate place, where not too many people live. If anyone wants to give me the names of your loved ones serving over in Al Asad, I will be sure to try and keep an eye out for them, and make sure they're staying safe... God Bless America!

Semper Fi,
Sgt Thompson

My fiance has just been deployed for a seven month tour of Al Asad. Both his mother and I are curious to learn more about Al Asad. Any info to comfort us would be much appreciated.

My son was just deployed to Al Asad. I am so proud of all of troops at home and over there.
They are all so brave and put self last!!!!!
God Bless all of you and your families,you are in my prayers!!!!!!!!!!!!Semper Fi Proud Marine Mom Love ya Smokey!!!!!!

My son too is going to Al Asad Air Base as "Force Security". He was trained as a diesel mechanic but volunteered to go for security. I am happy to hear that the intensity of attacks is low. Thank you all for the above information about the phone cards. The web site below has links to maps that show aproximately where the air base is on the Iraq map.
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iraq/al-asad.htm

Hi folks, Was doing some research and found all your questions about Al Asad.

After almost 20 months there in Iraq (with 90 days R&R last Christmas :-} )my son, a Marine MP is completing his 2nd tour there at Al Asad.

Since this is a major FOB (foward Operation base)for many of our forces I think they make it non-descript for safety purposes for our forces.

Where is it?
This link is to a more detailed map

http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/middle_east_and_asia/iraq_cia_2003.jpg

From Baghdad go west. Just west of Ramadi the interstate splits with I-12 heading NW and I-10 heading west. Follow I-12 NW past Muhammadi, past HIT, to a little town of Khan Al Baghdadi. Al Asad is about 7 to 10 Km W by SW of this town.

What it like?
The base is huge with facilties throughout for many branches and divisions of service. Partially buried MIGs and missiles can still be seen.

Temperatures in the shade reach 125 to 130, no joke, and brown, brown, brown, but some of the most beatiful sunsets and nights he's ever seen.

Some things to expect.
With all the attacks on the convoys and truck drivers, supplies to Al Asad have been hit and miss with letters about 3 weeks and packages 3-6. This also effects the Chow hall availablity and "selection".

You've read about the phone cards, but there is also a "comm" center tent that has an internet Cafe. The can stand in line (3 hours sometimes) and send emails.

There are lots of items they will ask for that will not be readily available. It will depend on there duties as to what will best serve them to send.

Lastly, I have gathered and sent hundreds of Soccer balls (like gold), toys, shoes (barefoot kids at 125 degrees?) and other items to hand out to the Iraqi kids. I think it has made many children very happy and does the giver as much or more good.

Please feel free to email me with questions as I have gained a bit of knowledge in finding economic supplies, mailing, even fed ex for emergencies to Al Asad. (honest!)

Hope this helps.

Prayers for yours there or going.

David Couch
douch@atlaslm.com

Our Grandson just arrived there last week.
Since our whole family is totally in the dark
about this place, you can't imagine what a relief
to read your posts. Hope everyone keeps
writing. Have learned so much already.
Thanks Bryan for providing this Blog.

Received an email from another Marine Mom who said it has gotton a lot quieter there. Most of the time they are bored. When her Daughter first arrived there had been a lot of mortar fire and rocketed propelled grenades but she said not to let this scare us because they have not had mortar fire or RPGs in a very long time.

She also mentioned that the much needed "cool neckties" could be obtained at sporting good stores or online. I was also directed not to get upset if no one hears from Him for awhile. They stay very busy and also the phone lines go down occasionally.

Oh, almost forgot, said food was pretty good there. Gotta be happy about that!!!!

My 19 yr. old baby sister LCPL Short, Andrea L. has just sent the family an e-mail, short and to the point from Al Asad. She just got there last night and still has her days and nights mixed up so was able to send a brief e-mail at about 1 a.m. She just wants us all to know, that as far as places to be are concerned, they have a "pretty sweet set-up here" and is very thankful for hot water showers, air conditioning and decent accomodations. She is a combat engineer and will be "dimed out" within the next two weeks but says things are good from what she can tell right now. God bless them all and may they all come home safely.

My Grandson called his Mom this morning from Al Asad. Said it was an old town (this confuses me) and not as hot as he expected. Kuwait was worse. He also said he was not feeling well which is normal coming into this new environment. Said most of the guys get sick at first. Asked for potato chips, and phone cards. AT&T 200 min. is like 4 calls.

I was under the impression that Al Asad was an old huge air base in the Al Anabar Province. Could someone clarify this for me? Thanks.

My son just arrived at Al Asad last week. Heard from him briefly on Sunday, said it was very hot during the day. He is in a tent for now, said the food was good. Trying to get use to things. what else can anyone tell me about this location and base.

my son is in al asad.and this mom has not heard athing from him.he did call his girlfriend,to saythat he is okay.but not mom yet.does any one know what we can send to them?and please pray for each and everyone.

thank you wendy

michael i love you

My 20 yr old son left for Al Asad Friday the 13th. What a bad day to leave on. No one has heard from him since, not even his girlfriend. He was originally stationed at Camp Mirimar in San Diego, CA.

Does anyone else have someone from the same camp deployed on 7/13/04 ?

Does anyone know how often the are allowed to call home ? Today is my birthday & all I want is a phone call from him saying that he arrived safely on base.

I am also glad to hear that the intensity of attacks is low on Al Asad. That gives me a little peace of mind. Although I support him and am very proud of what he is doing, I can't wait until he is out of Iraq and back in the States where it is safer. That's just the mom in me.

My sister found this map of Iraq that shows Al Asad

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/west_iraq_lo.jpg

WHEN STEPHEN LANDED HE SAID THEY GAVE EVERYONE A BUNCH OF BABY WIPES AND STUFF, ALSO A 200 MINUTE PHONE CARD. THAT'S ABOUT 4 SHORT CALLS.
I DO KNOW FROM THE MARINE MOM'S ONLINE WEBSITE IT MUST BE AN AT&T CARD.

My son is at Camp Miramar now, and will head to Al Asad on Sunday, August 22. Thank you all for the information - it makes it "easier" to know what he is heading towards. I've been searching for some information about the place, and hadn't come up with much! David Couch - thanks for the details - I really appreciate it.

God Bless our troops.
Susan J.

My brother left for Al Asad on thursday Aug. 19th. He left out of Miramar Air Base in San Diego. He was part of reservist group from Pasadena CA. I was happy to find this website a couple days ago. With the information people wrote on here I was able to give him some information about where he was going. If anyone gets news about Al Asad feel free to email me or please post it on here. I will do the same. As a former marine i am proud of what he and all our troops are doing. God Bless them and I know they will come home safe.
Semper Fi,
Walter Rivera

My son is also at al asad when he does call home, it is always a great relief, we are always glad to hear from him, he can not or does not want to give much info, but he says it's hot as hell, he's usually going on or coming from a mission and sounds real tired. But I prey for him and all those other kids everyday. any news is appreciated.

My husband has been out there for a month now and he has said nothing much about Al Asad except that it is hot and boring. He says that the mess hall is far away so he asked for me to send more food and to always keep it coming. I know sending magazines helps them since they like to make sure they are kept up to date. I'm glad to hear my hubby is out there with some great people. It does put me at ease at night. Keep praying they all come home safe.

Hey there... my husband just left from Miramar on Aug 19. Have not heard anything yet... eagerly awaiting a phone call or email! I have recieved email from one of his buddies who left on the 3rd of August, so I know he will have access.

Thanks for all of the info on this site!
Please feel free to email me with info or just to chat.

Keep them in your thoughts and prayers!
-C

hay everyone,
my best friend has been in al asad since febuary of this year...when he first got there i heard from him about 2 times a month....since the end of june hes been calling about 3 times a week and writes me emails almost everyday....mail takes about 6 days to get there and packages about 2 weeks for me.i write him everyday and he says that helps him pass the time by a little easier.SO KEEP THE MAIL GOING!!!:)

i keep all those you are in iraq and other parts of the world in my prayers every night.they are doing awesome over there!!! if you have any questions ill try and find the answer, my email is mysunshine207@netscape.net

elyse
very proud friend of LCPL Stark

My husband is a Seabee Reservist and has been at Al Asad since the beginning of April. Many of the improvements the Marines have mentioned have been built by the Seabees. He is proud to serve with these young Marines.

I am anxious for him to come home. He missed the arrival of our first grandchild.

Proud Seabee Wife

hey everyone, i know how all of ya'll feel. my future husband has been over at Al Asad for a little over a week. i have gotten three phone calls and they have all been great. they can not say a whole lot over the phone but it sounds pretty good. good food, air conditioner is always on, and they have enough personal space. a good web site is gobalsecurity.org it gives some history on the air base, and some pictures.
if anyone every needs to talk i am always checking my e-mail. gretch1970431@yahoo.com
pray for all of our brave
gretchen

My Son has been at Al Asad Airbase about 10 days now and he has called collect 3 or 4 times and called with an AT&T card a few times to. He said the living conditions are better the he thought they would be and he feels safe. His Mom and prey he and all of our Marines & Seabees are. He said the base took
Mortar shots on Wednesday "NOBODY HURT" THANK GOD.

CHECK OUT THE BATS AT THE LINK BELOW
file:///C:/Program%20Files/Adobe/F18%20BATS%20Bombing.jpeg

My son, Andrew just left for Al Asad on Saturday and I am so happy to find this site. I now know some of the wonderful people he is with and I feel like we are all a part of a 'family'.

He is a Marine reservist who volunteered for this duty so that he could be a 'full time' Marine. He loves being a Marine more than anything.

He has left a lovely young finacee behind as well as a mother, grandmother, sister, brother and extended family who love him very much and are so very proud.

I will keep this site posted. It should help to relieve some of the anxiety.

Semper Fi and best greetings to all Maureen

My son, carl just left for Al Asad on Friday, Aug, 20 from San Diego, Calf. I am very proud of my son and i hope and pray that he and the others will come home safely. He is going to be over there for 7 months.

My son has been in Al Asad since being deployed from Mir Mar Aug. 7. He calls at least 2-3 times a week and sounds great. He says he has it really good(ac in his sleeping trailer, indoor showers ect. Early this past Sat. 8-21 we received a call @ 3:30am to hear some disturbing news. Al Asad had been fired upon with small rockets. He seemed rather nonchalant about and even laughed about it. I find no humor in it at all and am wondering how often Al Asad comes under fire. Also. my son said his Sgt. took pictures and was to post them on the email. Does anyone know how to pull these photos up and what website we might find them. My son is airwing with the 242 squadron. God bless our Marines, all military troops, and the USA.

My grandson left Mirimar 8/26/04 for alasad. i've been searching for info since i found out where he would be going. so glad to have found this website. he's 19yr. and so proud to be a Marine. The uncertainty of the situation at the air base made it difficult for me. so good to know that the conditions, other than the heat, are good. please contact me with info as you hear. God Bless all of our troops and those of us who are praying for their safe return. aloha fro maui

Hi,
My husband is also at Al Asad. He has been there for 2 weeks now. He's called twice in the two weeks, and I've received several emails. I wish he could communicate more regularly, but any communication is wonderful. After hearing about the small rocket fire, I am even more anxious to hear from him. Thanks for all of your information and great websites. I would love to email with any of you, allip2004@hotmail.com
Alli

Hi,
My husband is also at Al Asad. He has been there for 2 weeks now. He's called twice in the two weeks, and I've received several emails. I wish he could communicate more regularly, but any communication is wonderful. After hearing about the small rocket fire, I am even more anxious to hear from him. Thanks for all of your information and great websites. I would love to email with any of you, allip2004@hotmail.com
Alli

Correction: my grandson did not leave for Iraq 8/26/04 as I previously stated. Obviously, it's only 8/22/04 now. He arrived at Al Asad on 8/21/04.Doesn't really matter, the fact is he's there.

Can anyone tell me why Al Asad was fired on ? I seen on CNN.com that about 4 Marines were killed in Al Anbar province over the weekend....

I don't know why either. I would also like to know what happened. I will have to go look at CNN.com because I have no idea what occurred.

Here is the link. I went back to CNN and they removed it from the TOP STORIES part. Scroll to the bottom.

http://www.cnn.com/2004/WORLD/meast/08/23/iraq.main/index.html

Here is the link. I went back to CNN and they removed it from the TOP STORIES part. Scroll to the bottom.

http://www.cnn.com/2004/WORLD/meast/08/23/iraq.main/index.html

When they report about the Al Anbar province, could they also be talking about Falujah? I know that Al Asad is part of that province, but does that also cover pretty much everything west of Baghdad? I'm a mom of a marine that was just sent there this weekend, so I'm new at all this. I might have it all wrong - appreciate it if someone can clarify for me! It might save me a sleepless night or two.
Sue J.

My husband just left Monday for AlAsad, and I have not yet heard from him. He left from MCAS( marine Corps Air Station) Miramar, not CAMP miramar.
I am not worried about not hearing from him because before the internet it would take up to 3 weeks to just get the first letter from him.

My nephew went to Al Asad on August 16 - is there a general email address anyone knows where I can try to contact him ?

My nephew went to Al Asad on August 16 - is there a general email address anyone knows where I can try to contact him ?

my friend is over there and he uses his own email account (hotmail, netscape,aol).also there are websites which have the bastic format off addresses so you can write (as long as you know a little bit of his info (ex.Co. Bn. Plt. or city he lived in, etc.) you can email if you want me to help you find it ...take care and GODBLESS out MEN AND WOMEN overseas and serving our COUNRTY!!!!

Talked to my brother who is in Al Asad. He left out of MCAS Aug 19th. He said they are doing well. "It's hot but doing good".The weather in Kuwait was worse. He has talked to marines that have been there for a while and they told him its not that bad, but it gets boring.I gave him this link and told him if he has time to write on here and let everyone know how they are doing.

My fiancée left for Al Asad on Aug 16th. I have talked to him a couple of times. I am so happy I found this website, its nice to read all the emails because they provide comfort. I don't know what I should send him. Any suggestions?

Yolanda,
the things my friend wanted the most was powdered gaterade and power bars, and a newspaper from our city every now and then...dont send anything that may melt (it gets hotttt there)...lots of letters and pics....and i sent a couple movies!!!next time you talk to him ask, im sure he will have some ideas!!!!
I will keep your fiancee in my prayers along with all the others who are serving our country!!!
Godbless

Thanks so much!Those were good ideas! I will probably will talk to him later tonight, I m usually out of it at 4:00am :-) Thanks for your prayers

Hi all, just got an e-mail this morning from my son who is also stationed at Al Asad. This is a former Iraqi air base approximately 160 K West of Baghdad. He agrees with most of the military that it is hotter'n hades, average daytime temp 110, night time gets down to around 80. Says the chow isn't too bad (by chow hall standards) but some HOMEMADE COOKIES would taste pretty good. Says the water really stinks so have to drink bottled water. Suppose the powdered drink mixes improve the taste of all that bottled water. Have also heard that some "good" toilet tissue is appreciated. Most are still living in plywood tents (with A/C) as repairs continue on the barracks. Just remember when sending items that these men & women can & probably will be moving around so disposable items or easily packed items would probably be better. As Gunny (my son) says. "Don't want to have to schlep around anymore extra stuff than I have to. The Corp has given me enough to cart around - don't want/need to add too much."
Keep praying they all come home safe & sound and SOON!
Semper Fi

Hi everyone. My son left on Sunday for Al Asad from Miramar, and we finally got an email from him this morning, telling us he arrived safely after about 25 hours delay. Just wanted to pass this on because I know some of you had loved ones leaving Miramar this past week, and it took awhile before he was able to contact us. He said the living conditions were better than he hoped (actually had ac), and to send calling cards.

God bless them all -
Sue J.

Hello to All who know the feeling of your loved one leaving for Iraq.My husband left from Camp Pendleton August 25th ,headed for March Air Force base there they had a delay because of a problem with the airplane finially the next day the 26th they left around 5pm and he called me that night from Minnesta for fueling and another delay due to airplane trouble.Again spending the night untill this airplane was fixed he left at noon on the 27th .I hope everything goes well now for these men and woman headed for Iraq.Ive read all the e-mails here and it helps to know we all can support each other at a time like this."God Bless them and be with them at all times" and for a safe return.If ya want to e-mail that would be great......Gunnery Sgt.Decoeurs wife ......Carol

Carol: My son left Camp Pendleton on Aug 25th also. I have not heard from him yet and he is headed to Al Asad. Do you know if all of them are together on the same plane? This site has helped me a lot with information I did not know. I honestly don't know how families get through this without support from people like you all here on this sight. I seem to go through spurts of real worry, then calm, then worry again. But as my son told me "Mom I am in God's hands" I guess that says it better than anything!! I pray every night for all of our men and women that they will all come home safe and sound!!! Thank you all and I am a Proud Marine Mom!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL THOSE SERVING IN IRAQ!!!
Our son, Lane, left on Monday, August 16th, first to Miramar and then on to Al Asad (by way of several other zigs and zags). I have writer's cramp from letters I promised to send...one everyday. We got a phone call 1:00am August 28th it was 9:00am his time. He said it is really hot, like walking around in a blow dryer. They do have ac, still sleeping on cots, hopefully they will be in the barracks soon. He said the food was okay. He has not been there long enough to really give much more info than that. I hope we will hear from him soon. He took "Footprints in the Sand" with him, I originally sent this to him in boot camp. He said it kept him going. He said it helps to know that even when you feel like you are left all alone and you see just one set of footprints in the sand...you are never alone because God is with you and when you see only one set of footprints in the sand...that is when God is carrying you. God is always with you. God is watching over all our loved ones while they are away from us. Pray for all of them. Pray to God to please keep them safe and sound. I am a very Proud Marine Mom!!!!!

My niece is scheduled to arrive soon at Al Asad with her Marine Reserve unit. Am delighted to find this site with the helpful information about conditions and what other Marines have encountered there. I've printed out the comments so she can circulate them to her buddies.

Hello to all. My husband left on Aug. 22 for Al Asad, and I have spoken to him once and received 2 e-mails so far. By the way At&T phone cards no longer work. I had to go to SegoviaIP.com to buy minutes and e-mail him back the pin #. Segovia is the new contractor for their phone lines. For 500 minutes it cost $25. He said one of his Marines was attacked by a camel spider yesterday, but is fine. He said they have fresh fruit and salad daily.
He said powedered drinks would be appreciated and OFF bug spray.
My husband is the OPS Chief for II MEF 2d Radio Bn Bravo Co., and he said all is quiet and everyone is doing well.
If anyone has any questions I can try and help.
I am the Key Volunteer for Bravo Co. in supporting the left behind families and spouses.

God Bless to everyone, and may all our loved ones return safely.

Brandy Smith(proud Marine wife of GySgt M.L. Smith)

How long does it normally take for someone to receive a package?

Hello to all of you, i was soo relieved to find this website, as many are:) My husband just left Sunday from Miramar San Diego, to Al Asad Iraq. He called me today from Germany and said they were heading to Kuwait from there, and then to Al Asad..I miss him so much it hurts..I am praying for him and others daily, that he is constantly surrounded by Gods protection..I would love to talk with someone else who is going through this, as i need some support...Anyone out there who wants/needs to talk to someone, please email me....God bless all of our troops and families...
Jennifer

my friend usually gets packages in 2/3 weeks....but it depends on whats going on over there as to how fast they get the mail...hope that helps!!! Godbless all the Men and women serving our country!!

elyse
VPBestFriend William
3/24 L Co

My grandson has been at alasad for almost two weeks now and he says it's not so bad except for the heat. Luckily, he has duty at night so he doesn't get the worst of the heat. i emailed him telling him that i had sent a package and he said that he was still in an a/c tent and not to send much until he moved. I sent toilet paper, baby wipes, powder, nonperishable foods, a Christian daily journal and a cool tie (they can be soaked in water and provide coolness for 24hrs. or longer). i bought mine at sports authority. Would Brandy Smith please email me at jwkihei@aol.com as my grandson is in Bravo Co.. he's in the 4th LAAD,BN Unit 3438000. i have no idea how many soldiers are in a company but maybe your husband could look up my grandson, LCpl Ubaldo, Cisco. Is there any reason that we should be careful about what we say on the Web Page? Wouldn't want to put anyone in jeopardy.Our men and women are in my prayers daily. God will take care of them.

Yes, we should be careful of what we put on this website, as with all others.

Thank you to all of you! My son has been at Al Asad for the past 2 weeks. He is with the 3rd Marine Air Wing. He says things are not too bad at this base. If he should offer any useful info. for this site, I'll be sure to forward it.
Nice to "talk" to you all.

Desi
Proud Marine Mom

hi everyone! my boy friend is over with yor loved ones. letters take 1 to 2 weeks, but packages take 3 weeks. i have been told by him that the food is good and everyone is doing just fine. baby wipes and gatorade(powder) is the best thing to send them. letters from home are real mood lifters for our troops. if anyone needs to talk just e-mail me.
gretch1970431@yahoo.com
gretchen

Hello all -

My nephew is currently serving in the Marines at Al Asad, and it has been tricky to find info about the base from the internet. However, I have found these sites, which I would like to share with you all...

A soldier's really cool weblog:
http://www.mythecaria.net/partingshot/index.php?m=200408
(unfortunately for the weblog, it looks like he is being deployed back to pendleton
now)

Pictures of the phone center, the Tin Cans, and more!
http://www.politics1.com/usmc.htm
http://www.politics1.com/usmc1.htm

It made me feel so much better to see where he lived, phoned from, etc. I sent my first package to him today!

God bless all of those men and women over there, and {{{{hugs}}} to you all that are left behind.

Hello all -

My nephew is currently serving in the Marines at Al Asad, and it has been tricky to find info about the base from the internet. However, I have found these sites, which I would like to share with you all...

A soldier's really cool weblog:
http://www.mythecaria.net/partingshot/index.php?m=200408
(unfortunately for the weblog, it looks like he is being deployed back to pendleton
now)

Pictures of the phone center, the Tin Cans, and more!
http://www.politics1.com/usmc.htm
http://www.politics1.com/usmc1.htm

It made me feel so much better to see where he lived, phoned from, etc. I sent my first package to him today!

God bless all of those men and women over there, and {{{{hugs}}} to you all that are left behind.

Hey Char
Thanks for the Soldier's Weblog link. It was real cool. When he was describing the base and what was there I felt like I was walking down the road and seeing the theater, PX, Post Office, Gym, Chow hall..etc. It was kinda like a virtual tour if you closed your eyes and had someone read it to you.

I would have never thought about sending "DEET" either.l I didn't think they had a big insect problem, but I guess every place does. I found Backwoods Off Mosquito wipes with DEET at Home Depot and Walmart (can't send arosel cans).

My son left Csmp Lejeune about two weeks ago for Al-asad. Said the days are very hot but fly by because they work 12 hr days. Nights drag. Needs alot of mail to help with the home sickness. He feels safe. Can't see anything but sand for miles. God bless all our troops and prayers for their safe return.

Hi everyone. I know that we are all sharing info about our loved ones but we have remember not to share info such as unit and location especially on an online forum like this. Its potentially dangerous. This information can reach the wrong hands. It is called the World Wide Web for a reason. If anything you could discuss it on a more personal level like in emails or phone conversations.

Hello everyone. This is a terrific site. We recently heard from our son, who is proudly serving in Iraq. Foot powder, skin lotion, white socks, gatorade, and beef jerky are some of the the appreciated luxury items our soldiers welcome as gifts right now.

Linda
Proud Marine Mom

May God keep our soldiers safe.

Thanks for the suggestions, Linda. I'm about to send a package to my son - and will include those items.

I will keep both soldiers and families in my prayers.

Sue J.

Like so many of you out there,I juast found this site.It is wonderful!! My son David just E-Mailed me he is there.Now I need to find out where to send pks.of "goodies" If I send something just to Al Asad base with his name.Is that all I need?It is so comforting knowing that we can share with others who truely understand!!My son has been over in Iraq since Feb.2004. He came from 21 Palms,Calf. I miss him terribly!! He is now an Uncle. Love to all and god bless.Proud Marine mom

Linda,
He should have an address you can send him mail and packages too!!!! I will keep your Son in my prayers along with all the other men and women serving!!!GODBLESS THE USA AND OUR TROOPS!!!

elyse
VPF of William
3/24 L co
Returning home in 16 days...Woohoo

HI - am compiling items to send to my son, also at Al Asad. My son says they can get beef jerky at the bx but would sure like some "deer" jerky. Also found out this morning you CAN send arosol cans. They have to go ground, which takes about another week - according to the post office. So don't send them with cookies etc. Also helpful if any items that might spill, leak etc are wrapped & packed in ziplock bags. They also use the bags to store things. Helps a little to keep out some of the dust etc. Canned air is important if they have/took dvd, cd player or computer. Otherwise they don't last long.
Just remember, if you hear of attacks on the base it is huge & your loved one is probably not affected. Please God.
Any of you out there have Marines out of Omaha?
Marty

My name is Jacqueline Mikkelson, Proud mom of a Marine, My son was in Al Anbar, on September 11th, where he was in a roll over accident and thrown from the Hum V. He did not survive. I need a map of where he was. can anyone help me? Please.

Good morning Jacqueline. First and foremost I would like to express my sincere condolences for the loss of your son on September 11th. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Al Anabar is a province or large area of Iraq an not a specific location. Al Anabar identifies what part of Iraq your son was in when the accident occurred. I feel certain the Marine Corp. will give you a more specific location of the accident in the near future.

http://www.multimap.com/index/IZ2.htm

The above link is a good set of maps for Iraq. Once you have a more specific location such as a town they were close to you can click on that link at the link I have provided.

I am personally greatful, that your son chose to serve in the Marine Corp and to defend all humanity against terrorism. He was serving our country as he believed in "freedom for all mankind". For this, your family should always be proud. Your son is a true hero to us all. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Sincerely,

Linda

Jacqueline,
I AM SOO SORRY ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR SON!!!HE is a HERO in my eyes as well as many others.... your family is in my prayers....if i can be of any help please email me.....

Elyse
VPF william
3/24 L Co
14 days!!!!

jacqueline, so sorry to hear about your son my prayers are with you and your family. god bless

Jacqueline,
I am so sorry to hear about your son. My husband is at Al Asad in Iraq. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Jacqueline
I too am very sorry to hear about your son. The military is like a big family, no matter what branch they serve. Your loss is felt by all. I know words are really not a comfort right now. My Uncle died 7 years ago on a training mission. He was training another pilot to fly F-18 and they crashed off the coast of Korea. Bodies were never recovered. It was very hard on the family but as time goes on you realize that he died serving his country and doing a job he enjoyed. Most of us don't get that opportunity in life. He was a hero and a role model to those left behind. That is why my son joined the Marines and two of my cousins as well.

Your son is a hero as well and will be remembered as such. Hang in there and come back to the board often. It will be a great comfort to you to share your grief with us as we can understand and hopefully help you through this difficult time.

God Bless you and your family and give you the strength you need.

Jacqueline,
I am so sorry to hear about your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God Bless you and your family.

Jacqueline...i just wanted to let you know that we all share in your grief. My grandson is over there and i am so proud of his courage and determination to fight for the freedom of all..the same courage that your son displayed as a young man in a country that does not know freedom or democracy. My heart aches for your loss but know that you and your family will be in my prayers daily along with prayers for all of our men. God bless you and feel free to contact me. We are one family and have to support each other.

I am so glad to find this website. Our son Chris is at Al Asad and his unit is out of Atlanta. We live in Brunswick,Ga. We feel isolated sometimes even though I stay in contact with one of the mom's. It is a hard time for all of us but through our prayers for all of them we will get through this together. It seems to be taking an unsually long time for him to get packages. Anyone else finding this to be true?

My package sent 2 1/2 weeks for my husband to receive it, and it was quite large. That seems to be about average.

Hello to all. My brother left for there on 7-31-04.He was in San Diego, CA when he left.He had just finished with the training.Now he is bored and of course hates it over there.I hope that they get to come home soon.Anyone know of a good Marine website to visit?

Shirrill, try www.keystonemarines.com

My husband is stationed in Al-asad. He is a CWO2 in the Marines. I get e-mails from him about 3 times a week. He has been there a month and he calls every 2 or 3 days. He says the conditions there aren't too bad but he has been very busy, even going without sleeping for a couple days. He transferred units from 4th Marine division to a company in Washington DC because they were in need of a company grade officer. This is a first for me and without a volunteer network, I am having a hard time.He had a two week notice and he was gone. I pray the Lord keeps his warrior angels around him and all our Marines. Please bring them home safe!!
Proud Marine Wife!!

My son (he’s a Marine) is stationed there too. It’s good to know where we can go to get information. We’ve sent our packages too and they seem to arrive in about seven days.

Just wanted to let everyone know that Jacque Mickkelson's son, Michael was buried yesterday and she has the most wonderful attitude about his life and death. She's a proud mother of a wonderful Marine and i've been amazed at her strength and resolve to celebrate his life. May we all have that same attitude in all aspects of our Marines time in Iraq!! That of pride and resolve that they are in God's loving hands and protection. May God bless Jacque her family and all of our MARINES. AMEN

Hello everyone,
My son Chris is also a proud Marine serving in Al Asad. I have been checking this message board for support and info frequently since my son left over a month ago. I was so sorry to see the message posted by Jacque Mickkelson and would like to come onboard and express my sincere condolences on behalf of my family. I know we all worry daily about our loved ones there and pray for their safety and wellbeing. THey have been trained to be on alert and we can only leave the rest in God's hands. On a lighter note,I know that my son has also written thathe has been extremly busy and seems to go without much free time working almost 7 days a week. I know that being that exhausted is hard but sometimes is a blessing indisguise as it keeps them from becoming bored with nothing to do at free time. My son gave me some suggestions for his men to help with the little free time they might have...I thought I might pass it along... Items for recreation time like travel Yatzee,smaller type board games, those inflatable footballs are really met with joy....I guess we worry about sending the necessaties in our packages but I thought I might throw out the ideas my son gave me...sometimes these types of items help keep their minds off things and keeps them sane
:-) THanks for having this site. I am truly thankful for it and visit it often.
Semper Fi,
Terry (proud Marine mom)

All,

I am an Army Reservist being activated for 18 months and, unless things change, will arrive for duty in Al Asad within the next couple of months (obviously I cannot provide specific time/date details). I am glad to have found this blog and have e-mailed it to my wife. I do not know what connectivity options I will have over there, but I will take this web page address with me and add to the conversation whenever possible. Thank you for your support of our troops and may God mightily bless your loved ones, and all of our troops, who are currently serving this great nation.

Hello everyone!
I just happened upon this site and am SO thrilled to finally find some info about Al Asad. My son, Travis, has been there for just shy of a month now and I hear from him by phone 2 or 3 times a week. He actually ran into another 20 year old, Luke, that he knows from our hometown in Massachusetts the other day.
A suggestion for making the most of their calls is to use your 3-way or conference call options. Trav usually will call his girlfriend who in turn calls me and he has one less call to make on his card.
My prayers are with all of the fine men and women who are serving their country, for the leaders making the decisions that effect us all, for the people of Iraq, and for peace of mind for all of us who are without our loved ones and the faith to trust that ultimately God is in control.
I'd love to hear from anyone who would like to email me: Knak2@aol.com
Thanks for this message board!! I'll be checking it often!

DEANA

Does anyone know of an on-line store which will send Christmas hampers to marines in Al Asad? From UK I have been having difficulty finding stores who can send via the US military post -- so perhaps an American store can do it?

Thanks.

I have been a Marine wife for 15 years and wanted to remark that the post Tammy [9/10/04] made is soooo very correct. Reading the information some people are putting down kind of shocked me and I was suprised at the amount of information the Warrant Officer's wife [Heather, I think] gave on her husband.

The men and women stationed at Al Asad have already been warned about the risk of loosing all electronic communications with the outside due to wives, parents, siblings or what have you talking and giving too much information. Wives/family in a key volunteer group have been jeopardizing operational security.

For those that have no group or do not remember the first meeting let me reiterate:

If you have a loved one there........

DO NOT Talk about:
Location of loved ones
Towns or Cities
The names of Officers or Staff NCO's
People wounded or killed that are still in Iraq
Troop/Convoy movement
Flights
Schedules

The military have a great privilege this time that they did not have during Desert Storm, which is being able to email and IM family. I have even been able to see my husband on webcam. One family or group can cut that off in no time. And it will affect the whole base. And all electronic communications ARE monitored.

Certainly no offense to the person that created this blog but when you go on the internet and start typing in forums, you really don't know who is collecting the information from them. And if you think about it, it would be a clever tactic on the enemy's side.

Another thing risking the loss of electronic communications is wives/family finding out that when a death occurs all communications are shut down for awhile. After finding this out and unable to talk to their loved one, families were calling bases/commanders causing a panic wanting to know who was hurt or who got killed. If your person came out of Pendleton and it was someone from LeJeune that was wounded... ALL communications will shut down regardless. So DO NOT call the base in a frantic because unfortunately people are wounded or killed almost everyday.

What some of you don't know, if you are a new military wife, is that the more you complain or cause a panic over here, the more your family member is getting his/her rear end chewed out.

If you absolutely have to talk to someone on base.. DO NOT break chain of command. The more chains you break the worse it is for your loved one.

Like the saying goes, "Marine Wife, Toughest Job in the Corps." ..... oorah!

Semper Fi

God Bless all our men and women overseas.

Carol, TX

Hi me again, I meant to put http://www.usmc.mil/ down but it showed up as my email..

Oops my bad.

Well for crying out loud, ya'll are gonna get sick of me.. one more link http://www.marforres.usmc.mil/index.html? this is for the Marines Forces Reserve.

Sorry... okay now we're good to go.

Semper Fi

Hi everyone, I check this site frequently but somehow missed the news about Jacque's son. So very sorry Jacque. Although I doubt she continues to monitor this site. Just too painful. I recently was informed by Gunny that they CAN get canned air at the BX. However - they canNOT get white tube socks. He said they were worth their weight in gold as they wear out so fast but are an important clothing item (combat boots tend to eat them). Sent a big box 2 1/2-3 weeks ago but still waiting to hear that he got it. Don't know if he just hasn't had time to confirm receiving it or it just hasn't been received. Does anyone know why we can't ship something in dry ice? Just wondering. Had been considering sending some stuff but guess that is out. Hope everyone's loved one stays safe & healthy.
m

my wife is recently deployed to iraq with her seabee batallion. any links for deployed seabees? anyone who is in similar situation and would like to chat, please contact me at johneger@gmpexpress.net. Thanks!

John you might try here http://www.news.navy.mil/ and type seabee in the search engine.

I received the following real life story this morning in my email. I was so touched by this true story that I felt like others would enjoy reading it also. I have intentially omitted, for their protection, the identity and location of this source. It certainly puts our reason for being in Iraq into prospective. Linda

The other day, my nine year old son wanted to know why we were at war. My
> husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and I were in
> the Army during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend
> our Country again today. I knew that my husband would give him a good
> explanation.
>
> My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in
> our
> front living room window. He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you
> see?"
> "I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied.
> "OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United
> States of America and you are President Bush."
> Our son giggled and said "OK."
>
> "Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house
> and yard on this block is a different country" my husband said.
>
> "OK Dad, I'm pretending."
> "Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see
> Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is
> hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he
> throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their
> children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and
> crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and
> they are
> afraid of their father. You see all of this son.... what do you do?"
>
> "Dad?"
> "What do you do son?"
> "I'd call the police, Dad."
>
> "OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations and they take your
> call, listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you
> do then son?"
> "Dad.......... but the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to
> whine.
>
> "They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or
> your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband
> says.
>
> "But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims.
>
> "I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you
> to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're
> pretending is Saddam turn around and do the same thing to his children."
>
> "Daddy...he kills them?"
>
> "Yes son, he does. What do you do?"
>
> "Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door
> neighbor to help me stop him." our son says.
>
> "Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get
> involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him," my
> husband says.
>
> "But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!"
> "WHAT DO YOU DO SON?" Our son starts to cry.
>
> "OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for
> help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and
> puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?"
> "What Daddy?"
>
> "He walks across the street to the old ladies house and breaks down her
> door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire
> and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the
> window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?"
> "Daddy..."
> "WHAT DO YOU DO?"
>
> Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, "I'd close the
> blinds, Daddy."
>
>
> My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him..."Why?"
>
>
> "Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who needs
> them...and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed
> to HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop
> him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy....I can't look out my
> window and just watch him do all these terrible things
> and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds...so I
> can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not
> happening."
>
> I start to cry.
>
> My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking
> pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husbands questions and he
> says..."Son"
>
> "Yes, Daddy."
>
> "Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door..."WHAT DO
> YOU DO?"
>
> My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up
> his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation
> he says: "I'D DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR
> MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!"
>
> I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his
> chest and hugs him tight, and says... "It's too late to fight him, he's
> too strong and he's already at YOUR front door son.....you should have
> stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady
> across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it
> alone, before it's too late." my husband whispers.
>
> THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good
> men stand by and let evil happen son, THAT is the greatest EVIL of all.
> Our President is doing what is right. We, as a free nation, must
> understand that this war is a war of humanity. WE must remove evil men
> from power so that we can continue to live in a free world where we are
> not afraid to look out our window so that my nine year old son won't grow
> up in a world where he feels that if he just "closes" that blinds the
> atrocities in the world won't
> affect him.
>
> "YOU MUST NEVER BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT! EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO DO IT
> ALONE!" BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS!!
> SUPPORT THEM!!! SUPPORT AMERICA!! SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL
> NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS..."
>

Thanks Linda.My brother can,t wait to get home.He is now a Lance CPL.

My daughter's fiance is at the Al Asad air base. He's been there since early August.
Today is his 20th birthday.
He is half way done with his tour of duty in Iraq.
I know he can't wait to come home. His family and ours look foward to the day he is able to come home, and is safe and sound.
Between our family and his, a box goes out to him once a week. Snacks, socks, small remote control cars, and stuff to try to make the time go by.
We are so proud of our marine and miss him very much.
Happy Birthday Michael! We love you

My husband is a Navy Seabee in Al Asad Airbase. He's been there since the first of Sept. He has been on one convoy with the Marines, and this is what he said..."I have the utmost respect for these guys...even though most of them are young enough to be my sons...they are the bravest men I have ever met." He was choking back the tears as he told me this. Along with my husband I would like to say, "THANK YOU" to all the marines, and their wives and families for your bravery, courage, and duty to our country. May you know the peace of God, and may all our people come home safely! Thank you!

Georgetta's brother and my brother-in-law is at Al Asad with the Seabees, and we are delighted to be a part of this blog. Our men and women are doing what needs to be done. Thank you all for the incoming information. May all the people of our planet recognize our connectedness one day!

Kevin

My fiance left for Al Asad in August. He calls me every saturday. He says that he doesn't have any problem getting phone cards, however that the computer access is very limited. He claims he tried once to email his family but the computer froze right after he read one email from his friend. His mom, dad and I miss him very much, as I am sure all of you do your family and friends. He is halfway through his tour there in Al Asad and tells me he is okay, and not to worry at all, that he feels completely safe there. I feel much more at ease to know that his base is not an area of much concern, I just pray that all the other troops stationed in Iraq will be safe. Everyone should keep praying and always stay positive. God will watch over them.
-Brittany

Just an FYI. If you havn't heard from your loved one. Don't get too worried communications always change when something big is going on. So y'all just hang in there and hope for the best.