tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24685579.post768066875124741307..comments2007-04-09T10:08:11.209-07:00Major Stronghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15349315498456216424arnold.strong@gmail.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24685579.post-28293466345043572542007-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:002007-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:00Hey boss! (old friend),<BR/><BR/>First of all, happy belated Easter!<BR/><BR/>Secondly, I felt that I should tell you what an incredible job you and our fellow Oregonians are doing in Afghanistan. You don't need me to tell you that the Afghan people, and indeed future generations of everyone in the world are going to benefit from your mission in Afghanistan.<BR/><BR/>I'm currently on an extended TDY here in Ft. Meade, actually getting my PA certification and AFSC... and you'll be happy to know I'm in the running for honor graduate! When I first read about the shennanigans back in Portland, I was ashamed. For a long time in class and amongst my peers here in school, I had touted the accomplishments and sacrifices of my fellow Oregon Guardsmen and women. It also became well-known that I was proud to be from Oregon and defended our perceived "blue state" status. After a couple of people asked me about the protest in downtown Portland, I politely declined comment. Honestly, I didn't know how to respond, or what to think.<BR/><BR/>You and I wear this uniform for a reason... so that others can sleep soundly under a warm blanket of freedom. And as callous as these "loudmouth nitwits", as Kat said in her response, may seem, I am also proud of the fact that I wear this uniform so that they may freely express themselves. It is their right. Likewise, my forefathers fought and died so that I could freely express myself... practice any religion I chose... live anywhere I want. And now you and I do the same thing... for Americans and indeed, for Afghani people as well.<BR/><BR/>After reading this section of your blog, and the responses, I find some comfort in the realization of what I already know: that for the most part, the people who showed up to protest the war in Iraq and Afghanistan were merely expressing their birth-right to freely express themselves in a public forum. But unfortunately, as it is often the case, a small group of anarchists painted a dark smudge on an otherwise peaceful occasion. Pay no attention to these cowards. There will always be individuals who enjoy the trappings of liberty and freedom, but are not willing to take the time to understand the responsibilities that accompany that privilege. Often, these same individuals are not willing to pay for it themselves.<BR/><BR/>If you must take away something from this incident, know this: Present day events and people may not be so kind, but history will be eternally grateful for your service. I, and your fellow Oregonians who understand that we must pay a price for our freedom and the liberty of others, stand by you and your fellow Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors.<BR/><BR/>Nick Choy, TSGT, USAF-ANG, OregonNChoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16849107661915600042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24685579.post-2150876753608763602007-03-28T17:13:00.000-07:002007-03-28T17:13:00.000-07:00I hate to hear that they did that, and hate even worse that y'all heard of it.<BR/><BR/>Like you said - they are the minority. Overwhelmingly, we here back home have nothing but the *profoundest* respect and gratitude for each & every one of y'all.<BR/><BR/>Those loudmouth nitwits (insert more colorful descriptions here, lol) who did that do not speak for all of america, anymore than they do for all Oragonians (is that a word??? LOL)<BR/><BR/>We support you completely and absolutely, now & always. <BR/><BR/>HANG IN THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367064141753344111noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24685579.post-10959476928146121672007-03-26T14:09:00.000-07:002007-03-26T14:09:00.000-07:00I can not imagine what it must be like for ya'll to see those images. Okay, I guess I can, you were pretty articulate -- and rightfully so.<BR/><BR/>Try, try try to remember that you are there, not just for them, but also those of us who appreciate it sooooo much. No one can ever repay you for what you are doing. <BR/><BR/>This week we found my Daddy's annual-type book from his time as a SEA BEE in the Pacific. For my Daddy I want you to know I appreciate what you are doing for me, and my family. We can NEVER repay you, but know you are all surrounded by our prayers and gratitude.Rejeniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13144881648654954101noreply@blogger.com