- Okay, men. We're here in Iraq because we were ordered
here. We are trained for this. This is what they pay us to do. Hopefully
we will not be here too long.
-
- But this is a dangerous place. People are getting killed
here. We are just as vulnerable as anyone. At all times protect yourselves
and those around you. They will be counting on you, and you on them.
-
- Get to know each other. Each other is all you really
have here. Once you will understand this, things will become a lot easier.
If you cannot understand this, this will be your hell, ...and maybe permanently.
-
- Do not try to be a hero or movie-star here. This will
only put you and those around you in danger. Plus there is nobody here
to impress anyway. We are all scared and we all know it, and the last thing
we need is a few bad actors.
-
- Do not take any chances, and do not allow anybody around
you to take any chances. This mission is not worth one man dead. We all
have lives ahead of us, and children to watch growing up. Let's make sure
we all get home for the sake of the children.
-
- But live up to your rank, to your superiors, to your
subordinates, your organization and its history, to all those around you.
Live up to the expectations of your family, your spouse, your children,
your parents. Live up to the spirit of your forefathers, all our forefathers
-- Americans and immigrants alike. Live up to your God.
-
- Live up to your morals. Do not violate them for any reason.
Be true to yourself and require those around you to do the same.
-
- Keep a journal. Make an entry every night you are here.
Write the truth. Write it for those you love. Allow your children and theirs
and theirs to know who you were and why you were there. You have a responsibility
to the next generation. Do whatever you can to ensure that they are not
put in your shoes.
-
- Most of all, never forget the value of life.
-
- Thank you men for your attention. Be careful out there.
Dismissed.
-
- Pete Wagner
- Major USMC Ret.
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