Of course we care and I feel so sad for all the soldiers and their families - Bless You All

I care... I'm just really tired of hearing about Iraq.

I don't want to sound like I don't care about people in the forces, but you joined the army voluntarily to be a soldier. Soldiers go to war. And soldiers unfortunately get killed in wars.

I'm a 17 year-old university student in Australia. I think US interests can go to hell. I respect the fact that many of you 'die' to further your government's goal of world domination, but I don't like the fact that you guys more often kill for US interests - I especially don't like the fact that many of you kill innocent people and don't get punished for it. Now, this isn't a 'Fuck you all' type answer, I just think that the situation you're involved in is a little more complicated than how this question would have it.

Your question stirred my emotional depository. Let’s be fair and square, how you would feel if you see Iraqi Troops on Jefferson Ave, hurling and subjecting the US citizens to disgrace and dishonour. If the American cause would have been based on genuine and noble intent, which all the sensible people know now is otherwise, (thinking otherwise would be an insult to any sane person’s intellect), it certainly would have been appreciated and any loss incurred would have been depressing. As American government is blindly engaged in securing their interests, most people living in even the allied countries actually find utmost relief hearing after US incurs any type of loss. We fail to think beyond the venom that US policies have generated by their imperialistic policies. I would definitely like to ask this question, before you are a soldier, you are a human being, don’t you see any wrong in US policies or are you not programmed to think or question yourself like that. If I had a son or any relative or friend in the same circumstances as yourself, I probably would not be able to breathe comfortably and would always pray that he or she comes back safely. Just to answer your question.

I thought you were in Iraq to get rid of Saddam Hussein and to liberate the Iraqi people, not to protect US interests. Are they feeding the soldiers a different line than they are feeding us? What US interests were at stake before 2003 in Iraq? And if there were any, were there more at stake in Iraq than in Pakistan or Saudi Arabia? If the USA wanted to liberate people from tyranny, why not go to North Korea or many places in Africa? I sympathise with your situation, but, like any dangerous occupation, you chose it; whether people appreciate the danger depends on whether they think you ought to be there in the first place.

I appreciate it so much and I support the troops with everything.. I think that alot of people dont. but I know that from what i have seen and all the people I know over there I support them and honor what they are doing so to answer your question I care and I appreciate yall

Yes, we do care. Most American citizens realize that the situation in Iraq is dire. We also know that our soldiers are there to help the Iraqi government get stabilized enough to take over their own defense. Although we are constantly barraged with info on how terrible things are, there are also many improvements. The lights are on, schools and hospitals are being rebuilt; the refineries destroyed by Saddam in'91 are being repaired. I know most critics are going to say we are rebuilding the refineries because we want the oil. That is the short sighted and currently popular view to hold. Like most current views, it is an answer that can be given glibly and with much smugness, but it doesn't really look beyond the moment. The only way the Iraqi nation will be able to function is with a vibrant economy. Since oil is the best resource, without repairing the refineries, the economy doesn't have a chance. We know you are in a difficult place. It's hot, sandy, dangerous and you just want to come home. Believe me, we want you to come home too. Safe and sound to your family or sweethearts. Don't be discouraged. There are more people praying for you every day than you can ever realize. Keep your head down, your chin up, and show the world what the American soldier is made of....God bless, and thank you for everything you do!

i don't get involved in politics conflicts and wars cause the death of many innocent people i would prefer to be imprisioned or be executed before anyone tried to induce me to fight in a war as this present world goes i think this expression sums it up nicely "war is like taking out the trash, someone's gotta do it"

The war in Iraq has nothing to do with U.S. interests. Deposing a secular leader and forcing them to accept a Shiite government (democratic or not) was catastrophic for our interests. Thanks for nothing!

Served four years in the 80s. I appreciate what you've been though. I don't know your age, my group dealt with Central America and had to learn that we were politcal puppets (Iran/Contra thing). I cannot speak for anyone else, but I do appreciate and empathize with your situation. Always Forward!! Rock on, come home whole and safe. Brothers in arms!

By all means I am proud of you my brother, you represent the heart of all that is American. Though I have no current respect for our government putting you in harms way, my admiration for our fighting men and women is unfaultering. Today I and my family, payed our respects to the Vietnam Memorial Replica as two of our loved ones have fallen in that war. A close friend whom we have welcomed into our family, was a chopper gunner during the war as well, and I told him that I loved him, and was greatful, that his name, was not on that wall. My mother lost her brother in Vietnam, and as you would imagine, it was a very emotional day for us all. We also dedicated a new KIA memorial flag to the memorial on behalf of the VA Post of Marble Falls TX, honoring all those "who gave all". Yes my brother, I do have and hold a high respect and admiration for you and those who fight along side you. My family has laid a heavy sacrifice upon the alter of freedom, and we sympathize with your loved ones as well, as we understand what they are going through. We wish you godspeed and a safe passage home.

So much that there are no words for it. Thank You seems to fall so far short. I wish you all the best and pray for you all every day. Bless you, your brothers in arms and America.

I'm sure that the answer to your question from most honest people would be - Of course not. I sit safely several thousand miles away and I can appreciate what the armed forces are going through - wherever they are in the world and whatever they're doing? I don't think so. How could I? I know (as it's usually reported) when people are killed, but can I appreciate not seeing someone on Tuesday - or ever again - having spoken to them at the weekend? Can I understand the trauma of seeing a friend die or be horribly wounded while getting a job done? Thankfully no, because that's not a situation I've ever been faced with. Unfortunately for you, you've picked one of the most thankless tasks possible. Since WWII, few developed western democracies have been able to count on the support of the population for military action, unless it is to defend what is obviously in the interests of their nation. As we know, there's worldwide debate on whether Iraq is 'legitimate'. I know from personal experience, and from family and friends who have been in UK military and police service, that there's a sardonic, cynical saying which has spread across the entire public service network, and has been used in this country for over a century when public servants are discussing public service. I'm afraid it's short, brutal and to the point, and perfectly sums up the frustrations of being constantly directed by politicians. "If you can't take a joke, you shouldn't have joined." If you could get a proportionate answer from the people on what the armed forces are and what they do - not just the media rent-a-quotes who want to get on television, then I think you'd get all the support you could want. It's not the armed forces the people are unhappy with, but the politicians who put them where they are, and inevitably, with politicians being as slippery as they can be, you will find fingers pointed in your direction as a default target for the media. So the answer I think is that unfortunately people don't appreciate what you do, or what you go through. They know people get shot at 'over there', but cannot put themselves in what for them is a totally alien situation. That's the paradox, isn't it? People like yourself go to places to encounter danger so people like me don't have to, but that in itself makes my appreciation of what you do limited at best.

I'm not even American and I care about what happens to you... Thank you

I am an english man. Now, having said that, I will make my comment. I do apreciate the soldiers of an army of any country where those people do protect there own people. However, there is no way at all that anyone within the American millitary is protecting US interests other than the selfish issue of oil supplies. I do not insult any soldier and in fact I respect all of the great people that where any sort of offical uniform, it does not matter if that uniform is an army one, a police one or whatever. I do not respect the decision making people at the highest level (ie the people who decided to go to war in the first place) they are liers! If they were honest about there intentions then maybe they would have more respect. To you, continue to follow your orders (you cant really do much else!) and good luck, to the high command, realise this war is going the same way as the Korean and Vietnamese wars went! Pull your boys out before it is too late! Good day to you

I'm British and i appreciate anyone trying to protect us from terrorism! just look after yourself boys. ;)

Absolutely, R.R.! I am one of the naive few that still believes that had yall not gone in, more 9-11's would have happened by now. Ever since this war started, we continually hear of these terrorist cells trying to set up more death and destruction on our shores. Should I believe this, or should I believe the government is influencing the media, so that they can still say they have a reason to be there? I saw what happened on 9-11, so I KNOW it CAN happen again. I choose to believe you guys are fighting for a noble cause. And, no I'm not stupid enough to believe that oil was not at least a small part of this. But, it happened because some idiots killed 3000 INNOCENT Americans and talk every single day about killing more. And, a brutal tyrannt told all terrorists that he would help them in any way he could, to kill more Americans, and kill any friends of America. I owe you a debt I can never repay, but I will pray and think about you brave young men daily, until yall come home. This is a very controversial war, but I still believe you guys are there for a reason other than oil. I believe you are there showing the world that if you kill our citizens, we will not just roll over and let it happen again. If you get a chance, R.R., send me a comment to let me know if the Iraqi people who want us there, are scared that they will be killed if America leaves now. That is a fear I have been thinking a lot about lately. I want you guys home, because I do think our point has been made, but if we promised these people we would stay until their government was set up, we should stay and help. It does seem, tho', that all they want is civil war, where only the strongest will rule.

i do wish that the soldiers were in the US helping rebuilding our cities, building schools and housing. we have so many problems within the US border that it is really quite overwhelming. lets start at home before we try an help others. and what US interests are we protecting in iraq? oil? oh, i almost forgot, we are helping the US government get rich. oil prices are quite high and many of us in the US don't feel safer. money is being poured into this war and schools are being shut down, important programs are getting cut off. i am sorry to say this but you guys have been tricked into thinking otherwise. in reality you are defending and finishing what george bush (the first) and his cronies never finished they have wanted to get their hands into iraq for some time now. time will tell my friend. one of my good friends is an ex-marine and he was severely brain-washed and now he can't even believe the things he used to believe. this is why i don't put all the blaim on you soldiers since it is more complicated than that. but it does make me sad that you guys are dying over there and that lots of people keep dying over there... its a shame.

Absolutely. As angry as I get regarding the actions of the administration, it never interferes with my feelings of gratitude and admiration for our boys who are put in harm's way.

I don't agree with the war, but I have all the respect and adoration for the people who go and get shot at every day. For the people who choose to go fight so we don't have to. For the men and women who help shape our country and give us a place to live for one more day. I do not support the Prez, but I do support the troops decision to fight for what they believe in, and I respect and thank them.

I respect you but what are you really doing? Your just kinda there. When will some thing important happen and when are you coming home to America?

I appreciate the American troop efforts, and I'm not even an American.

Yes, I appreciate that you are shot at and some die to protect us and our freedom. Without people like you and your friends, our lives would be... very different, and not nearly as good. People like you make the world a better place. Thank you.

The overwhelming majority of Americans appreciate what you do more than you will every know. Unfortunatley, while we quietly support you, that's not what makes the news. Even more unfortunatley, it's the Rosie O'Donnells who make the news. Rest assured, soldier, millions and millions of us are behind you 100%. Be safe.

I appreciate the sacrafice made by the troops and I think about and pray for them everyday. Im from NYC and my close friend Anthony was killed in Iraq while fighting for our nation. I do believe alot of people dont understand the effect of 9/11 on the people who ARE STILL living with it every day, as well as the war because they are indifferent to it because national pride is fading. I loved Anthony so much and it bothers me when I hear people make negative remarks about our soilders. I know how he felt when he was tired, exausted, fatigued & homesick, but I also knew how strongly he felt about becomming a Marine and fighting for his nation. He knew he was called to something greater. So it outrages me to hear others judge the Troops who are sacrificing all they have for the better good!? As a New Yorker I am proud of my nation and where Im from..Its not about if someone supports Bush or not its about having integrity (in any situation) and supporting the men and women fighting over seas. Im very proud of all the troops and you are making a difference. @}-----

I respect your ability and passion. However, I question the interests of the United States.

You bet we do. And we all thank you with so much gratitude for being willing to protect not only us, but other's who can not protect themselves that words can express it enough. Each and everyone of you have shown great Honour and Courage by willing laying your lives on the line for our freedoms and safty and for that we are bleesed to have Men and Women like you. And we thank you families for the sacrafices that they have to make in order for you to serve us. May you all come home safely to your families.

More than words can say. It takes very special people to do this job. It upsets me every time I hear a soldier die, I think of how special that individual was.

I certainly appreciate our military personnel and their families who support them in their efforts. They make it possible for an old lady to live in the safety of the USA as I do. BBWCHATT The old lady in Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA

I know that most of America are proud of you guys over there and are doing a great job. God bless you all

I think that its a great thing that your doing, Fighting for our country... But im not going to root for you...yes i appreiciate the fact that you are getting your self maulded pay stuff everyday.. But i hate the whole idea of war. At this point i dont get all patriodic and i wont.. sorry for all my spelling errors

I am in the army to can i get some points too!

I'm an ex marine, I did two tours totaling 20 months. after my second deployment i started to question exactly who's interests we were really protecting. I have an uncle who is a Vietnam vet, and I find the support my troops are receiving form our country is hand down better than what thy had in there time. I would like to say thank you to everyone who still stands behind the men and women over there in the middle east, even if the war we are fighting is questionable. thanks again!

I very much appreciate what you are doing. I think the interests are not solely U.S. interests. They are the interests of goodness, freedom, and what is right in people. I know you have to see that there are people who look on you as their only hope for a life and they are likely more concerned with the life of their children than themselves. They look to you as their salvation from the evil and oppression they have known. Don't let them down. God Bless You.

of course. We don't have to agree with the war but yes, I appreciate what you are doing.

I sure do appreciate what you and millions of other soldier have done, are doing, and will do in the future; I would pray there is not one soul out there that has not at least stopped and took a moment to be thankful to any/all soldiers! However, I do not see a soldier as the only hero; just one among many - a soldier is an individual that places everything he or she has on the line for a lot of strangers; other heroes are policemen/women, firemen/women, EMTs, rescue workers, and I'm sure so many more that I cannot think of. MY BOYS AND I THANK ALL OF YOU VERY MUCH (TO SAY THE LEAST!!!)

I thank God for you soldiers daily. You are the true hero's!

I very much appreciate what you are doing.

We appreciate so much what you are doing that when my son-in-law leaves for Iraq next month, my wife is going to move in with my daughter to help her take care of their child. One worry he won't have while he's fighting overseas is how his wife and child are doing. And I'd encourage everyone else reading this: If YOU know someone serving in the military, think of something you can do for the family! One thing we can all do is log on to opgratitude.com and send a Care package. Many of the troops have said that the package & letter they get has been the only piece of mail they've received their entire year!

I can speak only for myself, but I know that our freedom is not free and people like you pay every day, in some cases with their life to protect the freedoms that many in this country take for granted. I very much appreciate what you do.

my hats off to all you men and women who are serving... Amen and Amen.

My entire famile appreciates everything you ALL do for our country and people. Every male in my family has served in some branch of the service , including my husband. My brother is currently station in NC. God bless all servicemen and servicewomen. Be safe, and let God be your guide.

We support and appreciate everything you're doing. Thank you!!

I definitely appreciate you. Although I disagree with the war, I support our troops in every way possible. My dad served in Vietnam and my brother spent time in Qatar. As what some people call an 'army brat' I know the sacrifices our men and women in uniform have to endure. I have nothing but respect for soldiers and what they do. You might be far from home, but you're certainly not forgotten.

I'm going to be totally honest - I do not think of the soldiers everyday who are fighting for this country, but whenever I see a news report that tells the devastation or cites another American death it gives me pause. Do I appreciate you guys? Hell yes! Thanks for reminding me of whats important. Come home safe!

We support you, appreciate you, and continually pray for you. Thank you for your service.

Not only do I appreciae you, I also give you my greatest respect and gratitude for your sacrifice. I retired after 24 1/2 years and a tour in Grenada and Iraq, I know what your facing and can only say that those you are now serving with will be closer to you than your brothers and sisters. Thanks you again.

I believe that it is in the interest of the U.S. that you do not die. I am a veteran of GulfWar1 and Bosnia buddy, and you guys are getting shafted. You are serving and dying in the interests of a small few who have enormous influence over the government and the masses, who have been led to believe that the interests of these few are what's good for all of us. I appreciate the danger that you are in, but you chose to serve, buddy, just like me. I understand the danger but a meaningless sacrifice, like kamikazes and suicide bombers, is to be pitied and not appreciated. I'm sorry to be so harsh but America seems to be in a "who can blow more smoke up a soldiers ass" contest instead of telling you straight from the gut what is happening over here in the U.S. Come home safe, we are all waiting to see you again.

To all my brothers there, I care! Thank you for picking up where I left off. USAF the angels on your shoulders.

Do you really think some of us or all of us don't give a damn about you having asked that question? I for one know you must have a pair of big brass ones if you do get shot at everyday. If I could kiss you on the lips, I would for being a lot braver than me with that respect.

Oh yes and well I for one am Damn sorry that you had to be one of those chosen to fight against a civilization that dispises every action we take to make their world better.So Thanks I'm pondering what would happen without goodhearted individuals like you and your friends out there protecting me and our Constitution.

you cant possibly believe that nobody supports you

I appreciate the fact that you guys are over there and are ready to die to protect U.S. interests. Do not be discouraged! I know many people who are so grateful and so appreciative to have you guys. My whole entire family and friends are grateful to have people like you willing to risk your lives everyday for us. Thank you and God bless you. Know that you and your families are in our deepest prayers. If you only knew the prayer teams that exist because you are over there, but they don't show that on the news, but let me tell you my friend there is a remnant out there that is praying for you guys--people who don't even know you like myself. There are people who are prompted by God's spirit to get up at 4 a.m. in the morning just to pray for the troops in Iraq. Sometimes God won't let us sleep just to pray for the troops in Iraq. I remember just the other day praying for the troops in Iraq while taking a shower. People who are led by the spirit of God are prompted all hours of the day to pray for you guys. Heck, they have morning prayer at my church and they always lift up the troops. So, do not be discouraged. We are not on the news nor do you hear from us, but God hears us and he sends the answers right on time. SO WE ARE PRAYING AND WE ARE SO GRATEFUL THAT YOU WOULD RISK YOUR LIVES. YOU WILL TRULY BE REWARDED, MAYBE NOT TODAY, BUT ONE DAY YOU WILL BE REWARDED BEYOND MEASURE. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. XOXOXOXO

YES!!! I am an Air Force veteran, and my husband is in the Army. He has been in 18 years, and currently on his 2nd deployment in the last 3 years. We have a 4 year old son and 8 month old daughter. He has missed 1/2 of our son's life, and only saw our daughter her first 2 weeks of life. She will be 11 months old when he returns. And after all that, I'm SOOOOO proud of my husband, you, and every other military member, not only over there in Iraq and Afghanistan, but everyone else who supports them from afar. Thank you!!!! :) Be proud!!!

Damn right I am my brother was to be a front line medic in the gulf fortunately he didin't go because he would never come back and I feel for those who don't and their families

Yes!!!! I am an Army vet and pray for you guys each and everyday. I constantly remind those who talk about things of lesser importance that they need to keep up talk about our troops and give them as much support as possible. It seems like the media has put the war back seat of other political events when none of those (especially the election) have anyone dying there. You guys give it all 24/7 and I give you all props. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. latj

Of Course we appreciate you. What we do not appreciate are the politician who put you in the position to get shot at especially when most politicians would not let their own children go to fight a war.

i care, your risking your life to protect our country, who wouldnt appriciate that. Thank you.(:

I understand that you are shot at every day, and that the lives of you and your friends are in constant jeopardy. When you say that you are protecting America's interests, I have to wonder what that really means. I wish that you didn't have to be there. I DO NOT SUPPORT OUR TROOPS BEING ANYWHERE BUT IN OUR OWN COUNTRY. Our country has been in a state of perpetual war for decades now, and it's time for it to stop. You are being USED, by the politicians, by the corporations, by the special interests. They don't really care if you live or die, they will find someone else to replace you. And that is what is really shameful about our war machine...you are replaceable. I admire you for volunteering. I suspect your heart is in the right place. This isn't personal. Our country continues to make bad choices militarily, and we need to seriously examine the motives behind the war machine.

I do. Thank you!!!

YES!!!THANK_YOU!!!!

yes we do! i've seen those guys on tv who break down doors in Iraq and go rushing in not knowing if you'll be confronted with a frightened family or some guy with a gun. take care, and get home soon

Of course we appreciate it. My heart goes out to each and every one of ricking your life. Just because I may not agree with choices Bush has made for our country doesn't mean I can't appreciate the efforts you are giving.

My friend, I was sent to Iraq for 12 months. I was in danger every minute. I attribute coming home to being well trained and intelligent but ever more so to dumb luck. I fully understand what you're experiencing, more than probably most who will respond to this. There are some very awesome people who have made it their personal mission to send things to soldiers overseas, write to soldiers and speak out publicly in defense of our men and women in uniform. To them the reasons we are there are irrelevant. What is important is that we are their sons and daughters and they truly suffer when the news reports another loss. They are very special people whose actions absolutely humble me. I know of not a single american who would say "I do not support the troops" but many will say "I do not support the war". That is fair. Since coming home I can tell you that I have been pretty quiet and haven't done much to outwardly wave the flag (have no doubt though of my willingness to make sacrifices for my people and country and, far more intensely for a brother-in-arms) but there isn't a moment that passes that my heart and soul are free from the thoughts of my brothers and sisters still on the battlefield. Do not let down your gaurd and see to it you bring eachother home. Give everything for them and expect the same from them. Mission, men, self.

Don't ever think differently. No matter what a minority of people in the US say, no matter their politics, their religion, their race, their dislike of the war, they appreciate you and what you and the other soldiers are doing for us and Iraq. You KNOW there are a minority of people in splinter religions who say things that are covered by the media. What's not normally shown are the majority think they are extremely wrong in the things they do and say, and support you. Keep this in your heart and mind: AMERICA SUPPORTS YOU.

No one denies your commitment and bravery. And please, don't think that just because people are against the war means they are against you guys. There's already enough of that at home. I am against the war, but I support the troops.

The sad thing about this is you are not dying to protect US interests. You are dying to protect your brothers and sisters who are also in danger...a danger that you were placed in by wrong-headed thinking. Remember MacNamara, the Secy of Defense under Kennedy and Johnson, who engineered Vietnam and after more than 10 years of American troops being killed and maimed, wrote a book acknowledging that not only was it a mistake to go into the war, it was known by everyone in the Administration the war was a loser. This fighting that's going on in Iraq is doing nothing for the American people except eliminate or cripple thousands of our young men and women, and is achieving nothing that will benefit the American people. We are not being protected from terrorism, we are not preventing terrorists from attacking the United States, we are sending the wrong message to the world and making international enemies on a daily basis. Meanwhile, you and your brothers and sisters are being thrown into a meat grinder to satisfy the unimaginative and misguided souls who, unfortunately, run this country. You have my prayers and my sympathy but I can't accept that you are dying to protect my interests.

Absolutely! My husband, our friends and I pray for all of you daily & try to help our soldiers whenever we can to show our appreciation for your role in this angelic conflict (WAR). None of you are forgotten or taken for granted :)

I support you and your mission.

I'm sure most of them don't.I on the other hand want to thank-you.

Ruffryder.. im from the UK, and im sure the US people, just like us Brits, thank you guys from the bottom of our hearts for doing what i think is a fantastic job. I dont believe you are shown the appreciation you deserve for what you go through every day, and i admire each and every one of you guys the world over for taking your life in your hands and leaving your loved ones behind, sometimes forever, to protect your countries. Take care and good luck honey xxxx

Yes. I come from a long line of people who've served this country, dating back to the Revolutionary war! (And more recently, of course.) I had always been raised to give respect to those who offer their own life for the lives of many. The Iraq war has hit me pretty hard. War is tragic, no matter how you slice it. I've known some soldiers that haven't made it back, and I have a cousin who's likely to be deployed soon. I applaud the efforts you made and continue to make, and only hope for you to come home peacefully and safely.

SURE,NOW LETS GO START SOMETHING IN SOME OTHER COUNTRY THAT IS MINDING IT`S OWN. HEY LETS BOMB LONDON SURE TONY SUPPORTED US BUT WHAT THE HECK.I HEARD POLAND IS MINDING ITS OWN LETS BOMB THEM.IN THE MEAN TIME GENICIDE HITS DARFUR BUT WE CANT SEE THAT FAR. AND GEE THERES NO OIL THERE.WHEN YOU JERKS PULLED WHAT YOU PULLED AND YOU HAVE COUNTRYS PUTTING US IN THE SAME CLASS AS THE NAZI`S I`M DAMN PROUD.WHEN YOU GOT HALF THE WORLD HATING THE USA AND BURNING OUR FLAG IT TOUCHES ME.AND WHEN YOU BRING IT TO OUR SHORES AND CREATE SOMETHING THAT OTHERWISE WOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED.I SAY KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.NEW YORK SALUTE.

I appreciate your serivce each and every day i pray for every single one of your brave men and women. You are my hero's and i thank you so much.

listen man i am against the war in the middle east but that doesnt mean i am against the brave people who are sent over there. just because you are doing a job that i dont think is necessary doesnt i want bad things to happen to american soldier.

My son was in the Navy in the early part of 2000. I come from a family of Navy people, and I did volunteer work for the U.S. NAVAL SEA CADET CORPS: http://www.seacadets.org/public/

I do, and let me go further by stating my understanding of the war: the war is necessary in order to stabilize the middle east and negate the opportunity of radical Islam to establish a large power base capable of causing real damage to western civilization. Without your sacrifices, millions of others will be placed in peril. Islamic leaders have stated their intent to destroy the US and replace it with an Islamic theocracy. Violence, unfortunately, can only be met with violence. Your mission is absolutely necessary. And I know there are many that agree with me. God bless you, your mission, and the USA.

You people are what give americe our rpide strength and honor. Without you we would be like any other country, its not the military that makes us who we are, its the american soldiers as individuals

Me and my Family do appreciate that you were over there very much!!!! We pray for our soldiers all the time.

I appreciate what you have to face every minute. My father served 6 years in the navy and he fought in the Korean War. I had an uncle who served in the navy during WWII, he earned a Silver Star and a Purple Heart. I pray that our servicemen and women will return home healthy.

There's no need to wonder! People back here in the good ole USA never give a thought to you guys over there! Mostly because they are too busy trying to survive in their own little worlds they have isolated themselves into! Some poeple attempt to make a showing of concern but they're just shooting the bull like the rest of them!

I could care less..Who are you fighting in Iraq and Bushes war has nothing to do with me...just give me my tax cuts..thats all we care bout here

I salute you sir.

Yes. And appreciate the cost of liberty very much. My cousin is in the Marine Corp Reserve and has just finished his second tour in Iraq in the past four years.

I can only speak for myself when I say that I Truly appreciate all of our soldiers for putting themselves in danger so that I can have my freedoms and luxuries ( and by luxury I mean the simplest of comforts that we take for granted). Nothing is free in this world and if anyone knows this it's our troops. I think that it's sad that ANY soldier would even have to ask this. Love you all and you are very appreciated.

I deffinatly respect you...no respect is a under statement. The men and women of the Americans Armed Forces are the tip of the sword! You are Americas best. That also goes with the law enforcement, fire, and ems. And yes there is other people as well. A Thank You is all I have. But it is not good enough. yes there are some that do not support you guys...but the majority of the world do! God Bless. Good luck. and your nation is proud of what you guys are doing for us to be free. America Land of the free Home of the brave! Im 15 years old I hop I can be as big of a man as you that defend my freedom

Why are you in Iraq. Why did we go there in the first place?

we think you are true patriots and heroes

Yes, we do. My son served in the Navy until 2001. All service personnel are in my thoughts and best wishes.

Why doesn't Bush take all the soldiers out of Iraq. The people are just defending their land. Good luck to you.

Yes I do. I believe that you are far more brave than I will ever be. You're far more giving than me, because I am not willing to possibly give my life for anything. I could also never put myself into combat. First 2 seconds I would have a core meltdown due to bullets. Not only do I appreciate you, but I respect all of you immensely.

The American interests are simple. They are Bush's interests and they amount to oil reserves, otherwise we would have jumped into Dafur, North Kores, etc... where attrocities happen every day. Don't be fooled and come home asap. with respect, Barbara

i appreciate you and every single soldier more than you will ever know! whether the war is right or wrong is another debate,but i think all americans support our soldiers!thank you for what you do and please come back home!!

I for one appreciate everything you guys and gals are doing for me and mine. I think you guys are couragous, true blue, and down right heros every damn one of you. Here at my house we thank our lucky stars for men and women like you. May your rifel be true, and you come home safe. Thank you and everyone like you from the bottom of my heart. I'll keep you in my prayers. God Bless, Dion

I am so appreciative of the men serving to protect the freedom of my country.

I do, so much so that I'm joining the marines after high school.

I appreciate all that our soldiers do. But I do not agree with our reasons for going to war. I think people tend to forget that you can support the troops because they are our sons and daughters and mothers and fathers and brothers and sisters...but you can be against the war too! I don't mean to sound disrespectful but you DID sign up for the military, you do get paid to do it, and let's not lie here, most guys and girls going into the military do it more for career, pay, college and other reasons beneficial to them as opposed to being straight up patriots or the military would be totally voluntary and free of pay or other compensation. But if you didnt want to be shot at then you should not have signed up. True you defend this country, but you weren't made to do it either. So my compassion for the troops stems not from the bullets that are shot at you or the bullets you shoot but that you have a committment to your country even when you don't agree with it's policies all the time. So what I am essentially saying is I appreciate you are willing to die to protect American people, but I don't really care that you protect American Interests (which in my opinion are the interests of the rich, corporations and the powerful elite).

Of course we appreciate it! We appreciate everything you do for our country! Thanks for protecting us.

Whenever I see an armed forces guy or girl walking down the street, I make sure to tell them thank you, and shake their hands. You guys deserve it. It is the least we can do.