An Email from Jennifer Griffin in Afghanistan!!!
I just got this email (see below) from my colleague Jennifer Griffin…she is with the Commandant of the Marine Corps in Afghanistan and has been keeping us up to date with her behind the scenes emails….what is REALLY fun about this one today is that she introduces us to “Spanky” — a marine who is an amputee in Iraq…yes, deployed after losing his leg in Iraq because he wanted to return…according to Jennifer, Spanky would love to hear from you (his email is provided in Jennifer’s email below.) (I just emailed him!!) [Email Spanky!!!!!]
From: jennifer griffin
Sent: Wednesday, February 20, 2008 4:38 PM
To: Van Susteren, Greta
Subject: Afghanistan
Dear Greta,
No blackberry service yet in Iraq so I grab some internet space anytime we get close to some marines. Just landed in Afghanistan at Bagram Air Base via Kuwait. A surreal landing into a frozen air base (Bagram) at 1 am in the morning. We woke this morning in Fallujah and formed a convoy of uparmored humvees and a large MRAP (Mine Resistent Ambush Protected Vehicle) for a slow journey by road to Baghdad. The Headquarters for the marines 1MEF in Fallujah is in an old palace like building that Saddam had built for the Mujahideen e-Khalq - the Iranian defectors who wanted to overthrow the Ayatollahs in the 1980s during the war between Iraq and Iran in which more than a million people were killed. The Khalq were the ones who got the intell from Iran a few years ago that uncovered for the IAEA the Iranian nuclear program. The Khalq seemed a bit like a cult when we first met them in Baghdad and were taken to desert training with tanks and women gunners talking of retaking Iran. It was so strange to be back at their base under such different circumstances - the last time I was there was 1996.
I met the most amazing marine in Fallujah - Gunny William Gibson from Pryor, Oklahoma - his friends call him Spanky. Gunny Gibson lost his entire leg after an Iraqi sniper fired a round through his knee in Ramadi in 2006 - May 16, 2006 - just 19 months ago. He is the first full leg amputee to be returned to the fight - redeployed as an active marine. This Gunny had been in the marines for 18 years - that is who he is. He said all he wanted to do was get back into the fight. He said returning to Iraq was his first step back to feeling like he was a marine again. He runs half marathons with his prosthetic and it was when he swam in a race from Alcatraz and ended up at the feet of General Mattis out in California. As he emerged from the water General Mattis asked him what he could do for him - he said, “Sir, send me back to Iraq.” It was the only way he said that he would feel whole again. His wife and 4 year old daughter are in Oklahoma. This marine is now supporting his unit from the back - coordinating fire in the Combat Operations Center in Camp Fallujah. General Kelly of 1MEF said that he works out at the gym harder than anyone at the base. And he doesn’t want anyone’s pity. He won’t go out on foot patrol - not because he is fearful but he doesn’t want to endanger any other marines should they encounter trouble. He is a true inspiration. I asked him if he would engage some of our viewers with e-mails - take questions and he said yes - so if anyone wants to write to him and give him a bit of support and ask him what it is like to be back - here is his e-mail: gibsonwespanky@yahoo.com or if that doesn’t work try gibsonwlspanky@yahoo.com. I asked if he had met any Iraqis since he had been back. He said he did at the Barber Shop - an Iraqi soldier who had been shot in the head in Ramadi. They stood outside and bonded over what they had been through. He said the Iraqi soldier was very moved that Gunny Gibson had come back to try to help rebuild Iraq.
When we got on the convoy this morning I asked if there were any marines who had been through Fallujah 1 and 2 - the really dark days in Anbar. I pulled Sgt Matiodda aside and quite unexpectedly (for him and me) he choked up very visibly when I asked him why he had come back. He immediately talked of his buddy who had lost both arms in Fallujah and those who hadn’t made it. His lip quivered through our entire interview - which had him very embarrassed at the end - but the emotions of those who fought hard and now are back seeing the dramatic changes and that it wasn’t all in vain are very raw. I hit him on the shoulder and turned away before I teared up. Most Americans have no idea.
Lot’s more to tell you but I have to get up in a few hours. I had an hour with General Petraeus today in Baghdad - keep an eye out for our interview when I get back. I have the distinct impression after talking to a lot of different Generals and Pentagon types that the army is readying itself to announce that they will be drawing back down to 12 month tours from 15 month tours in the next few months. Expect an announcement around the time that Petraeus returns to report to Congress sometime between April 7-9. He wouldn’t make the announcement. Expect the President to do it as they announce the success of the surge. General Casey, Army Chief, said Tuesday that he could foresee the army units that deploy in August will be deploying for 12 rather than 15 months, a move that will relieve some of the pressure on the force. You’ll remember they went to 15 month tours to support the surge.
Appreciate all of the nice comments from the viewers. They would be so blown away if they could see this war up close right now. It is very difficult to describe the changes in an article or television piece. You have to be here to believe it. Afghanistan - that’s another story. If anything, it is slipping backwards.
Tags: Jennifer Griffin, Spanky
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Thank you, Jennifer, for your excellent reporting. You are a brave young woman yourself to even be in that sad war-torn part of our wonderful world. Spanky is a hero in all of our eyes.
As I began reading the different comments—one was from Harland McDonald who knew of another amputee in the Viet Nam War. I had a friend who went through training with my Marine and I lost touch with him. I would love to know if this could be the same man stationed in Pensacola, Fl. and Kingsville, Texas in the early sixties??? He was such a good friend.
Thank you again,
Ginger Pugh Morgan Kemp
[...] More here: Gunny Gibson lost his entire leg after an Iraqi sniper fired a round through his knee in Ramadi in 2006 - May 16, 2006 - just 19 months ago. He is the first full leg amputee to be returned to the fight - redeployed as an active marine. This Gunny had been in the marines for 18 years - that is who he is. He said all he wanted to do was get back into the fight. He said returning to Iraq was his first step back to feeling like he was a marine again. He runs half marathons with his prosthetic and it was when he swam in a race from Alcatraz and ended up at the feet of General Mattis out in California. As he emerged from the water General Mattis asked him what he could do for him - he said, “Sir, send me back to Iraq.” It was the only way he said that he would feel whole again. His wife and 4 year old daughter are in Oklahoma. This marine is now supporting his unit from the back - coordinating fire in the Combat Operations Center in Camp Fallujah. [...]
Greata; I watch your show most nights and am a huge fan BUT I strongly disagree with your panel of attorneys regarding the 400 children they recovered from the relegious ranch in Texas.
How can you say that you agree with this so-called church? These children have no voice and are at the mercy of everyone. My belief is if the LAW doesn’t allow for the children to be removed CHANGE THE LAW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We get so wrapped up in THE LAW until we
fail to use COMMON SENSE !!! MY God how could anyone believe that it is ok to let little children
live in such a place and call it a CHURCH ? We need to WAKE UP and STAND UP for the ones who can’t help themselves. These type of responses is why our Country is so messed up. I pray
that our Nation will realize what is RIGHT and what is WRONG SOON- VERY SOON !!!!!
That is all I have to say !!!
“Spanky” and I served together in 12th Marines. He’s one helluva Marine. If an Artillery unit were a building, Gunny Gibson would be a load bearing wall.
Jen, great story. I have a cousin in the Marines stationed in Iraq–his second tour! My grandfather was a Sgt. Major in the Army in WWII. As a medic, I am sure he saw horrific scenes of war, none of which he ever repeated. My cousin never divulges anything about the struggles of a war torn Iraq either. As a “Mustang” and a field artillery Captain in the US Marines, he has more than his share of war and its tragedies. I worry when I do not receive any reply from him after I e-mail him. I pray for his safety everyday and I am happy when none of the packages I sent are returned, reaffirming that he is alive.
I want this war to be over with and I also want our service men and women to return home safely to their loved ones. I, however, support our troops 100%–not just during war but, more importantly, after their honorable discharge when they are in the civilian world, looking for jobs. Many will be emotionally scarred and will need a lot of support; our patience, understanding and generousity will be the best way to thank these couragous people for protecting our country.
Thank you for serving! Sempre Fi!!!
Sea Change On Iraq Opinion
By a significant margin, Americans now believe we are going to succeed.
And even Hollywood is getting on board; Angel…
I am so proud of this soldiers courage and dedication I cannot find words that fully express my feelings. God bless him.
God bless Sgt. William “Spanky” Gibson, God bless all the Marines and servicemen and women.
God bless our Commander-in-Chief, and God bless the USA.
I just read this outstanding story and at last, we are hearing some good,
I am so proud of gunner and pray for him that he will stay safe..
Great American and we have so many just like him…..
Hope the libs are reading this…we need to hear more stories….I love it…
First I am so proud of our military. I was a Navy brat who grew up respecting our men and women in the service of our country.
The story of Spanky Gibson touched my heart. especially when I hear people complaining about the war in Iraq and how we need to bring our troops home before the job is done. Let them hear this amazing mans story and then re think how they feel. Better yet, think about our troops and how THEY feel about bringing peace to a country who hasn’t known anything but hate and fear for years and years.
God Bless Mr. Gibson and all of our troops.
Connie Blocker
I just saw the Griffin piece on Fox News.
What an inspiration.
The type of role model our young children should see.
After seeing something like this. how can the people of Berkley, CA treat our Marines the way they have.
God bless you G/Sgt Gibson. Having served in the USMCR for 28 years I can fully understand the Marine bonds that occur.
Joe Fasano
GOD BLESS YA,GREAT STORY ABOUT A GREAT “MARINE”
TO OBSERVE A MARINE IS INSPIRATIONAL.
TO BE A MARINE ,IS EXCEPTIONAL.
SEMPER-FI
SGT JERRY P
USMC-RET
Well done to that man ! many Australian’s do feel the same appreciation of the security your providing to our world and the benifets you provide to the local population . I wish our higher ranks had the same attitude as yours and sent our soldiers back into the frey on request in stead of putting them out to pasture , a soldier needs to finish the job .
Rod
retired Infantry ( Para ) Australia
Job well done Jennifer, you make me proud and because of true balanced journalist like you I am proud to call myself a journalist as well.
GySgt. William “Sparky” Gibson USMC, what a great name for a street some where in Oklahoma!
You make me so proud and mere words are not enough to say what you mean to me as a Marine. When I looked at you and said ‘Thank You’ at the CG’s brief today, it was an Honor for me.
I’m sure all of the United States ANGLICO community is gleaming with pride and those who have worked with you will tell their children and grandchildren about you. You exemplify the saying “ordinary people doing extra ordinary things”
Destiny is calling brother … answer the call, go on and tell the world about the Marines we so proudly love and serve with. Let the American people know how much it means to all of us wearing a uniform when they vote, practice freedom of speech, religion and all of the liberties we so proudly protect. When we return in a year, a cold one on my tab for you, and maybe we could get LZ to come out and toss a few with us. There is another story that hasn’t been told, maybe that’s a genie worth keeping in the bottle! LOL
Your proud friend,
Willie E.
P.S.
A little AP style lesson here: Marines are capitalized because we are a proper noun. We capitalize when referring to U.S. forces: the U.S. Marines, the Marines, the Marine Corps, Marine regulations. We capitalize Marine when referring to an individual in a Marine Corp unit: He is a Marine. The Army has soldiers, the Navy has sailors, the Air Force has airmen, the Marine Corp has Marines.
Comment by Kurt
February 20th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
I am so glad the Marines took Gunny back, as the civilians in this country would have treated him like trash to be thrown away…in my opinion from how I have seen civilians treat veterans.
===========================================================
How well I know as a Vietnam Vet I was called a baby killer and other things,by buffoons and one is a Senator!
Thank you again Jennifer for all your reporting.Keep Safe.
I’m a little shocked thats its taken a report from Jennifer to get people to think about sending MAIL and CARE packages to our brave TROOPS risking their lives everyday for US!
The WAR has been on going for a long time,the news has shown so many times about how to go about sending mail and packages,adopt a soldier,even if you don’t personally have a family member or friend in the Military.Millions already do this on a daily basis to let our soldier’s know how much we care.
Thanks to Jennifer now maybe a lot more will start.Don’t put it off and think,ok I’ll do it tomorrow,that could mean one soldier who could of gotten warm thoughts from us maybe not be alive tomorrow.
amazing story. God Bless him.
P.S. Jennifer, you have spelt Beau’s last name wrong, it is Mattioda.
Thanks
Thank you for this wonderful story. Because of reporters like you I have been able to follow my sons where abouts 3 times now. I have been told that these are the best trained Marines ever and thank god they are. We are so proud of them all! I know Eddie personally who is the most beautiful person and has gone on with life with no grudges and commend Spanky for his courage. His loss was not without rewards and certainly not for nothing as the people in Iraq are so grateful I am sure.
I wanted to Thank GySgt Steven Bosley for his kind words.
Beau, we miss you and stay safe. Ask Eddie to contact “Funk” I hope he has his e-mail.
Love, Mom
XO
Spanky,
If Samir is still confused, I am state side and will love to explain to him. I got your back. We miss you from Team Semper Fi
What an inspiration Gunny William “Spanky” Gibson is to all his fellow Marines !!! The Corps is a “brotherhood” that stays with a Marine for the rest of his life, and Gunny Gibson is the embodiment of what it means to be a United States Marine… Service in my beloved Marine Corps was a long time ago for me, but as proven by the devotion to “Duty - Honor - Country” by “Spanky”, the tradition continues… God Bless him, and all those in harms way, and keep them safe…
Semper Fi,
Rod “Scotty” Macleod - Chu Lai, Vietnam ‘65 - ‘66 (U.S.M.C.)
Greta, thank god for modern technology!!! I am Sgt. Mattioda’s grandma, and live sort of isolated on a ranch in No. Calif. I watch you often, and commend fox news for all their fair and equal reporting. I am always amazed that I can keep in touch with Beau even though he is on the other side of the world. What a wonderful article and cheers for Jennifer!! What would we do without a caring and honest network to keep us informed other than all the propganda we receive mainstream!!! Keep on with your good work, Flo
I am missing a left leg and wanted to send spanky a thank you e-mail but both address keep returning to me. Can you send me another adress or # so I can send him my thanks and prayers.
HE IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION.
GREG RATESIC
440-821-5379
Jennifer, thanks for writing such a terrific story. Greta, thanks for posting it.
I sent Spanky an email…first to thank him for his service to our country and second, thanking him and his fellow Marines for making the area better for the Iraqi people and better for those serving in Iraq today. My son patrols the streets every day and sees the results of the brave Marines like Sparky.
Semper Fidelis Sparky!
Jennifer,
I love your reports … they are so interesting and informative … you are the best!!
Those two Marines of whom I am so proud, are but a minuscule sample of the total force of Marines and other members of the armed forces whose Esprit De Corps and dedication to our nation’s mission, is overcoming all the obstacles thrown at them, including the ones thrown by an unsupportive press corps.
Greta & Jennifer, thank you so very much for running this story.
MGytSgt Jim Smith USMC Ret.
Semper Fidelius, Fratres Aeterni
Jennifer, you’ve been drinking too much chai or maybe they were burning a poppy field when you landed and unlike some noted people in the past you really did inhale. Afghanistan or Iraq? Where are you?
But the bottom line is thank you for this story about this hero.
I am confused, however, as to why the Air Force Lt.Col. would publish the Gunny’s address. I thought the DOD frowned upon information like this being published.
At any rate, thank you again for the article. This is the kind of news that the alphabet channels would never publish. I have a feeling Spanky and his Marines are going to be well taken care of.
Carry on, Jennifer, and keep the good news coming.
Cheryl
(USMC veteran)
Life member Women Marines Association
Life member Greater Nevada Detachment Marine Corps League
Semper Fi,
I am a retired Navy Chief who served 19 of my 25 years in with the Marine Corps. That includes Grenada, Lebanon, Panama, Gulf War and Afghanistan and Iraq. I am always in awe of my Marine Corps and what they do and would still proudly serve with them if the Navy would let me. Gunny, you take care of those kids and never let comments from people who have no clue discourage you or those Devil Dogs over there. Take care of my Devil Doc’s as well. Semper Fi Bro and fight the good fight.
R/
HMC(DV,PJ,FMF) Gene D (RET)
All I can say is, Thank you.
When the military services are mentioned in type, could it please be done correctly? By that I mean capitilizing the first letter of the branch of service, ie. Marines, Navy, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard.
Resepctfully,
M. Taylor
Cpl USMC ‘82-’86
excellent coverage Jennifer. Keep up the good work and the great stories wish i could hug them all .stay safe…
Thank you for doing waht your doing!!!
Corporal Matt Raley
USMC
2000-2005
Semper FI, Gunny
It warms the heart to know the Corps still produces such Quality Marines!!!
Mike Monk, Msgt
USMC Retired(1992)
All..read! The report is coming from Afgahnistan after arriving from Iraq via Kuwait City. She was in Iraq in the morning, did the interview, got to Kuwait City, flew from there to Afgahnistan and got on line there..it’s not that hard to comprehend.
I am a bit confused. The Article starts with her arrival into a frozen Bagram Air Base, Afganistan at 1 a.m. Next sentence states that she is waking up in Fallujah, Iraq and preparing for a convoy to Baghdad. I spent 14 months in Baghdad myself and traveled a bit in Iraq on a couple of different missions and a convoy from Bagram Air Base, Afganistan to Baghdad, Iraq would be one heck of a road trip. Spanky, you truley are an inspiration to all of us. Stay safe in the sandbox.
Very inspiring story of an American Hero, a Marine whom fought for his country when called to serve. Gunnery Sergeant William Gibson’s true life experience is an inspiration and motivation of the highest respect I have for this dedicated veteran. Thank you sir for your honorable service “Spanky” and god bless you, your family and friends.
Semper Fi,
Mike Redwine (former Marine Staff Sergeant 1974-80)
I have had the distinct honor of corresponding with Spanky. The most impressive aspect of this young warrior leader is his concern for his men. They have a tough job and do it well. Spanky would appreciate any items to can send to his troops. This includes candy, coffee, creamers, pre=packaged tuna lunches, magazines, books, etc. Send them to:
GySgt Gibson, William E.
IMHG, CE, G-3 Force Forces
Unit 42540
FPO/AP 96426-2540
Thanks from Gunny Gibson
Maybe Jennifer landed in Iraqistan!! Did Jennifer spend too much time around our President before this assignment?!
I was so taken by Spankey’s story that I forgot to thank the person who shared and delivered the story to us.
Greta -You are a true PROFESSIONAL and now I see why you stand alone among your colleagues. Keep up the exceptional work by delivering the real truth.
God Bless you and your family sir. My family is praying for you and yours, and is so thankful for your service. I’m amazed at your ‘drive’ to get back to the war zone, and your dedication to your brothers-in-arms. Thank you for being open to comments, even those comments that set the hair on the back of my neck on end. I guess that is why we are Americans, we have the right to say what we want, even if it offends others. Our family has the utmost respect for you.
P.S. I’ll be working out a little harder at the gym this week :)
Greta,
Great story, however does Jennifer really know here geography, it is very hard to land in Afghanistan and then arrive the next moring in Iraq. I completely agree with the comment done by Matthew. You might want to email the story to him to verify what country your doing a story on before publishing it.
Way to Go Fox News
Your webpage has expired as I tried to answer one of your messages/articles.
J. Boyd
Wayhne, Pa. 19087
My deepest hearfelt support to a Marine from another Marine. Your story made me feel as though I was wearing the green once again as I read your story from the comforts of my home, which you are providing, near Valley Foge,PA. I have printed a copy of your story so that all those who enter my office will see it and be directed to read it. I call this the real news.
Again, you have my most sincere congratulations as a faithful and loyal Marine and one hell of an AMERICAN. Continue to take care of our Marines and help all those who need encouragement.
Send a message if you have time.
John Boyd P.O. Box 287, Wayne, Pa. 19087
Not to take anything away from Gunny Spanky, but ifJennifer landed in Afghanistan at 1AM and the next morning she awoke in Fallujah, Iraq…. either she has no idea where she is or perhaps she should be checked for sleep-walking.
Either way, Gunny Spanky is an inspiration to us all.
Greta: this was an outstanding article, written by a dedicated reporter that does not hesitate to put out the soldiers thoughts and feelings. I am very proud of the few that will not follow the other trail. Thanks a bunch Jennifer. Leon
Remarkable story of courage and commitment. What a lucky army to have such men among them
To everyone,
I will like to say “Thank You” to all of you who have given opinion or gratitude for what we all do, in service to our country. I usually stay pretty lo-Key when it comes to a camera or a reporter. It always seems to find me but, as a above the knee amputee I think it is important to not only show my fellow Marines but all citizens that our abilities still exist. We new fighters strive to prove to all that fought before us that we do not wish to tarnish their hardwork. Our service to Iraq or Afghanistan is to assist them in some of the same ways we needed assistance 232 years ago. War sucks, getting injured or dying sucks but, all of us serving Raised our right hand and swore to do what is a, unfortunate responcibility. I take no one day back in my service. I would much rather be the Marine injured than one of my young Marines who have a long life to live.
Thank you all again. I will gladly answer all of your emails as soon as I get the free time to do so. This was a quicker method to reach the masses. If you want to know the true heroes, its the family members that put up with us doing this job. Or holding our hand while we learn to walk again. To let go of that hand, as hard as it might be, to let us return to the same place that changed our life. My wife Chaney is the hero, I just support.
Semper Fi, GySgt Spanky Gibson
p.s. Samir, if you think I am un-American. I will be back in the USA in one year. I will gladly discuss the topic face to face.
I’ve never met Gunny “Spanky” Gibson, but I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Sgt Matiodda. We were both stationed in Okinawa, Japan at the same time, along with Eddie(his buddy who had lost both arms in Fallujah) who’s been a friend for years. We spent many a great weekends together and I miss those guys often. Seeing Eddie at President Reagan’s funeral brought a tear to my eye. There is nothing like a US Marine. If you are one, you understand this. If anybody has Matiodda’s e-mail address, please mail him and have him contact Eddie who will then contact “Funk”. It would be nice to catch up.
Thats a Marine for ya, they never quit. These Marines keep doing things everyday that make me proud of being a former Marine. As they say “once a Marine ” I’am proud of Spanky, good work Gunny. Hang in there Gunny best of luck, Lew “1962-1966 3rd Marine Division”
No worries. I don’t think anyone would misconstrue being called a hero as less than a good thing.
You can be a hero without being forced onto it.
There may be no words good enough to describe these men and women but hero is a good thing. My opinion.
GySgt Gibson is not a “hero!” The use of this word undermines who he truly is. The way I see it, a hero does what needs to be done only because they have no other choice. GySgt Gibson did not get forced back into this war, he chose to do so. I beleive, that it is heros that look up to people like GySgt Gibson for leadership and guidance when things arise. He has displayed the uttermost courage and loyalty towards his country that many of us take for granted. He is the embodiment of what made this country great. I hope that God blesses you and your family GySgt Gibson.
I have just emailed this Military Hero of the USA!!!!! God Bless Him and All of Our Heroes.
I would also like to comment on another organization so you can adopt a Soldier—-Soldier’s Angels. The anysoldier is great too. And please check out Michael Yons website. He is embedded over with our Military and his firsthand stories and pictures are awesome.
God Bless Gunny Spanky and all of our Troops!!
Thank you for your wonderful story.
Denise
Pennsylvania
USA
Sent you an Email Gunny. If you are ever in Colorado look me up. It would be an Honor to meet you. Blessed are the Peacekeepers, for they shall be called the children of God- Matthew 59. You are awesome. You are an inspiration to more than you will ever know.
Semper Fi!
We can’t understand what drives someone like Spanky. He’s definitely someone I would like covering my back.
“To all those present, greetings….inspire the young and influence the old. “You’re doing one hell of a job in keeping the faith with that of America’s most noble Sons and Daughters, Gunny. The term “True Warrior” comes to mind. You make me proud to be an American and prouder still to have been a Marine. Please let me know if there is anything we can do for you or the guys that are serving. Poguey bait or whatever just give us a shout. You are all in my prayers and I hope that the politicians( note the “p” is lower cased” , such as in the word”liberals”) allow you guys to finish the job that you are doing so well instead of losing the guts they never had . This country would still be owned by England and France if it weren’t for men like you that fight for what is just and true. My heartfelt thanks from one Marine to another. Thank you Gunny for your spirit and leadership by example. May it inspire those that serve , and those that wish they still could.
Semper Fidelis
Thanks Jennifer for the great inside stories of your travels. I sent an email too. Just reading these blog entries is making me tear up. I hope all the soldiers know how much we appreciate their sacrifices and that of their families while they serve. Thanks for your reports … I love your reporting and your blogs are even better. I’m printing them out to share with my friend who has a son in Iraq. God bless and keep you safe!
Comment by Sharon in SC
February 20th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Beth,
TY. The medical care and facilities are so much better now. The ” Golden Hour” is feasible now but sure was not back then. I saw such bravery. We treated multinational troops and it was quite and experience.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sharon:
You nurses made all the difference in the world. Many forget that women served in Viet Nam in various capacities from nurses to Red Cross volunteers, performers, and women in the military who weren’t in combat units. You all gave the troops a glimpse of home whenever they saw you.
The medical folks - well, I can’t say enough ’bout the nurses and doctors. I had a cousin over there who came home with bad PTSD. He had a few minor injuries and he said that while he never felt safe on a base (”You know who the enemy is in the jungle” was what he told me, his wide-eyed younger cousin), he appreciated everything the nurses and doctors did for him and his buddies.
Thank you again for your service over there. The words aren’t quite enough, but they’re the best I can do….
~a grateful American~
Beth in TX
ICU RN
To all those serving overseas: thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I am honored to serve with you.
Ms (Mrs?) Griffin, if you happen to see my husband in Bagram, tell him I love him. He’s the one in camo.. :-p
This isn’t the first time. We had a Gunnery Sergeant in Vietnam with 1st Force Recon who was an amputee (leg) and he won the Navy Cross. Unfortunately, I forget his name.
I have the privalage to work next to this man named Spanky every day. I must say that Jennifer is dead on in her email. Gunny Gibson is a great leader and it is an honor to work next to such a great person.
Jennifer and Greta, thank you so much for this wonderfully inspiring and uplifting report! If only it could be plastered all over the prime time news networks!
May God bless you for your efforts and grant protection to Spanky and all of the other brave defenders. We have so very much for which to be thankful! May all of America be brought to their knees in repentence and thanksgiving so that God’s blessings and protection will continue upon our great country.
Pray for our leaders and those in the fray of battle!
Jennifer, I love your reporting and the pictures you share are so enlightening. All the brave men and women are such an inspiration. Spanky is a true American hero. Thank you for sharing these stories and telling us about some of the people you meet.
All marines and the other service man are real heros, they give it their all so we can be safe,
God bless every one of them
Gunny Gibson is a very special man to do what he has done.
Thank you Jennfier for sending these stories to us.
Dianna
It was an honor to email this young man. Thanks to all that have served and sacrificed so much.
Jen, love and appreciate your reports. They are very eye-opening. No matter how anyone feels about the war they have to respect our troops. They are doing an awesome job there and need to know we back them 1000%. Stay safe little one
To Spanky USMC I salute you!
Boomer
Fellow Oklahoman
101st ABN
Airborne all the way……
I already knew The Marine Corps made men. I joined in 1966 and spent 13 months in vietnam
Reading about the Gunny remains me of how proud I was AND am to have been a small part of the tradition. But I don’t believe I had the GUTS the Gunny HAS>
I don’t believe I had the guts the Gunny Has. My time in the Marine Corps 40 yrs ago in Vietnam
seems like yesterday. But the Marine Corps do build real men. the Gunny is living proof.
Thanks to all our armed forces who work every day to keep our nation safe!
Mr. Gibson,
Just read Jennifer’s report….Here’s an email from a Texas fiddler. I used to play for a living at Gilley’s Club in Pasadena, Texas with Mickey Gilley and Johnny Lee (Urban Cowboy movie and all the rest). I play fiddle part-time on the road with Zona Jones (from Beaumont, Tx) and do Accounting, especially now with tax season going on.
I’m able to do all this music playing and business pursuits because of men like you!! Thank you, Mr. Gibson!!
God’s Blessings to you and your Family,
Robert Herridge