September 11th, 2007: The War Against Terrorism Continues

During breaks in their training, the youngest soldiers gather around the war veterans who lead them. Like other experienced warriors, the sergeants have a look about them. It comes from an extra dimension in their personalities - an added layer of iron that is common for those who have peeked into the “pit” and lived to tell about it.

All of the soldiers belong to a unit that will soon head to one of the war zones. I am one of the sergeants assigned to monitor and assist with their training. Every time I am given this mission, I get to know more members of the new “greatest generation”. Most of the young soldiers were still in high school when I was in Iraq in 2004.

I will be leaving them for awhile in the next few days to travel overseas on a fact-finding mission to one of the war zones. It is not a “tour” and I will be back soon. Although I can’t discuss the mission or the location, I will be able to provide more information when I return.

On this anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, we all remember where we were and what we were doing on that tragic day. We also take time to pray once again for the victims and their families.

Time passes and there are fewer flags flying from cars and houses. Most Americans care about the soldiers, but they are weary of the war. We can never forget that the weariest of Americans are those who are fighting the battles. They don’t have the luxury of turning off the television, throwing away the newspaper or changing the subject.

Thanks again for your support of America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.

SFC Chuck Grist
www.AmericanRanger.blogspot.com