Troop Prayer Thread 9 "A CALL TO ARMS!"

to the ninth in our series of prayer threads dedicated to supporting our troops, our allies, their families, our President, our leaders, and our nation. We are grateful for the opportunities to gather together, afforded us by the founder of the site, JimRob. Wont you join us in prayer for our magnificent troops? As always, both posters and lurkers are welcome! Each and every prayer is powerful and COUNTS!!

On November 10, 2003, because of various special short-duration challenges we face as a nation, we instituted a Prayer Warrior Call to Arms on this thread. For a month, until December 10, we are asking our Prayer Warriors to ask the Lord to give them an assignment for some increment of extra devotion for this month. The original post (339 on Troop Prayer Thread 8) containing the rationale for it and some possible suggestions for some small difference-making devotional ideas, is reposted below:

Over the last several days, we have seen the increasing successful attacks on our helicopters by the enemy's use of hand held rockets. We are witnessing the possible court martial of an officer who was able to obtain solid information WITHOUT TORTURE of an attack on his men, thereby saving many lives. We learned today that the Supreme Court is hearing a case in order to decide whether prisoners in Guantanomo will be granted access to the US Court system. The Senate Select Intelligence Committee has been rendered impotent because a memo surfaced outlining a plan to use classified information bringing down the Bush Administration. The loss of integrity of this committee directly puts the lives of our troops at risk. There have been stories reported that large cities in our nation have had threats once more leveled toward them by Al Quaeda during this time of Ramadan. The press has continued to ramp up its "Quagmire!" coverage by emphasizing the death toll and ignoring stories of the victorious work our troops are really doing. I know I am not alone in the distress I feel in the face of these challenges to our troops and our nation. While wrestling with the helpless feelings, it was laid on my heart to come to the Prayer Warriors here to see if together we can forge a response on the spiritual front of these battles.

I believe that the Lord is calling us to an extra effort at this time, so for a month, November 10 thru December 10, I propose that each of us go to the Lord and ask what small sacrifice might be asked of us which taken together could make the difference in the challenges outlined above. Listed below are some possibilities which you may want to consider. Of course, I am quite sure the list is not exhaustive! The main thing, is ponder what small thing we can each individually pledge and lay on the altar over a period of a month.

Participation, as always, is TOTALLY based on what you feel guided to perform by the Lord. You are welcome to post on the thread what assignment you have been given; it might be an inspiration to others to know. Or, you may wish to let us know that you did indeed get an assignment, but will be fulfilling it in the privacy of your own prayer closet. And, of course, all anonymous response COUNTS!!

b) Go to post 23 of this thread and choose one or all of the official armed services prayers to give daily or weekly

c) Our Roman Catholic and Orthodox Prayer Warriors might wish to give a Rosary or some extra 'Hail Marys'

h) Light a candle. (PLEASE be sure that it is in a safe place and in a safe container!! - you might wish to go to one of the churches in your area where votive candles can be lit by devotees.)

i) Go to the park for a walk and just TALK to the Lord about these concerns and the other concerns of your heart.

j) Fast for one or two days. You might choose to fast one or two days each week during the month or one or two days during the month.
It should be noted that different levels of fasting can be chosen. Some might choose not to eat red meat. Some might choose not to eat meat or fish. Some might wish to eat only whole grains and steamed veggies. Some might feel called to fast on juices. Others might feel called to do a fast of water intake only. In my research on fasts, I have learned that those who choose to follow a non- or low -nutritive fast should not pursue it for more than 3 days in a row without supervision. In my opinion, the Lord is interested that we sacrifice earthly concerns, not that we sacrifice our health!

I am grateful for all Prayer Warriors here and for the constancy you have shown over the past several months in holding vigil for our troops. I am grateful in advance for any response to this Call to Arms which is laid on your heart. I am grateful for all our troops. I am grateful for their families who also hold vigil and are sacrificing in small and large ways every day of their lives.

I wish to thank everyone who has stepped to the plate to intensify their efforts to stand by our troops on the spiritual fronts of battle. Yesterday (November 30 - see post 606 in Thread 8) we learned of a large battle in which a number of the enemy were killed, wounded, or captured, with no US deaths known as we write this. IMHO, this is evidence that our prayers and all prayers given in the places of worship throughout the nation on behalf of our troops are being answered. Please, if you have not answered the Call To Arms yet, go to your Lord and ask Him if there is some small extra devotion you can offer for the remaining 10 days of our special vigil.

Below is a list of troops which freepers have submitted for prayer. All who wish to participate at any level whatsoever is welcome. All participation commitment is strictly between you and your maker. While most who participate here are Christian, we strive to maintain an ecumenical spirit here and invite the participation of people of other faiths. We hold the belief here that ALL prayers are invaluable and make a difference. One never knows when that one little prayer breathed while waiting in traffic just might be the one that will be instrumental in saving the life or limb of a young soldier or marine or sailor or airman or coast guarder.

We want everyone to know that while we reserve the List itself for those who are active military and their immediate families, we are willing and very happy to pray on our thread for those who are supporting our troops who may have some special prayer needs. We have recently decided to add to our list those who are serving our troops in the capacity of support/contract personnel.

If you wish to have a special prayer posted for your loved one, ping or freepmail me or amom or any other posting Freeper whom you desire to have post a prayer. Or you may post your own prayer or prayer request for your loved one yourself, if you desire. This is your thread. We wish to have it be a place where not only are you supporting our troops, but that you will feel supported yourself while giving that support.

If you are active military, you are also VERY welcome to request special prayers for yourselves or your buddies.

If you wish to be on or off our ping list, please notify me, or FReeper amom, who has been serving as our List Keeper. Also let us know if you have any updates or if we have made any errors!

For those of us who have somewhat limited computer capacity, we request that graphics be limited to pictures of loved ones for whom we are offering prayers, special visuals that seem particularly appropriate, and as much as possible, non-moving graphics. Thank you.

Thank you so much for spiritually supporting our troops, allies, support civilians, and their families.

We are grateful to God that for those who have been injured or taken back Home, He has dispatched angels to their care.

Our list keeper, amom, has provided us with a couple of special sections. The first is a special mention list of folks on our list of whom we are aware of having special need for prayer. The second is a list of those who have come home! Following that is the complete list of all prayer request submissions. We are grateful to acknowledge amom's service in organizing and keeping our list up to date. It is a huge job, and I know that I am not alone in my appreciation for her efforts!

We are hoping to receive updates on some of these special mention and welcome home situations, so as they come in we will post them.

boxerblues-whose son has been injured in a freak accident a couple of days ago in Iraq. He has been hit by an exploding truck tire in the back of his head, he was medi vac'd out to a field hospital where he received staples in the back of his head and hands, he suffered a concussion, along with multiple cuts and bruises.

Dlfromthedesert-A Tucson soldier,Sgt. Sean Cataudella killed in Baghdad on Saturday. August 30. He left behind a wife and 3 small children, including an infant he had never seen. His father, Sal Cataudella, is taking the loss of his only son very hard.

Mr. Silverback-PFC David Modes II of Apple Canyon Lake, IL. He was wounded in a firefight near the Afghan-Pakistan border during Operation Mountain Viper and is now recuperaing at Landstuhl. He was shot twice: A bullet through the abdomen missed all vital organs, but he will require extensive rehab for a thigh wound. David's mother is a member of the armymomsusa support group. The two soldiers with David at the time were killed. Please pray for their families. Their names are Adam L. Thomas, 21 of Burbank, IL and Chad Fuller, 23 of Potsdam, NY.

Master Sgt. Kevin Morehead, 33. We join ProudsoldierwifeSFODA585 in grieving for her husband who was killed in a firefight in Ramadi, Iraq Sept 13 2003.

~Radix’s son, 2LT Radix Jr, Army-
~Joseph Hudson, and other POWs home safe, released from hospital at Ft Bragg on 23 April.-
~LBGA son Tyler, special ops, home safe, tired but in good health.
~HiJinx SPC Anna, BlackHawk Crew Chief has come home safe and sound
~Major Sellers, USMC
~Char and Dale’s son Dean came home from Iraq at the end of April!
~SGT Elsa, USA
~Potlatch-son safely back home after 10 months and managing to go around the typhoon and got home to Texas.
~Mosby-Dan is BACK IN THE USA!!! HOORAY! He touched down in CA yesterday (10/5/03)AM after traveling for 2 solid days! Arrived home on 10/16/2003!!!
~FrogMom-Mike arrived home on Friday (10-10-03) after being extended several times.
~TruthNtegrity-Ben returned last week, just in time for his Grandmother's 80+ something Birthday. He has several weeks off before he goes to Fort Bragg for more training. Please pray for his future in the Marines, for his continued training and for his safety wherever he is.
~TruthNtegrity-My younger brother, John, is home from the ME and in fact, retired from the Navy after 30 years on Oct. 3. I'd really appreciate prayer for his retirement plans - for employment that uses his special capabilities that made him so valuable to the USN for 30 years.
~TruthNtegrity-pilot LTC Andrew deployed, has returned home, seen his 9-month old son whom he'd never seen and is being transferred to a different Air base. Pray please for this move and for his family to settle in quickly.
~Texokie- Mystery-ak's Mike is due home today for a two week RR. That time is being extended because they were "his kids" that were shot down yesterday in the helicopter. They'll be busy visiting families of the crash members UPDATE 11/29: Mike is back in Balad, he left the 18th..his R&R was not extended.We attended prayer services for his 3 crewmembers, Mike spoke of each of them to the crowd. We visited family and managed to get all our Christmas shopping done before he left.. We celebrated ThanksGiving on the 16th.

A very bittersweet reunion, Mike's mind was never at home. always thinking of his troops in Balad.

~snippy_about_it-Freeper bkwells and the entire Tarawa crew are home and in San Diego
~snippy_about_it-Freeper DesertDog aka Karl son of freeper beallyoucanbe is home now also.
~snippy_about_it-Radix's son is home now too
~Joy Angela-My cousin, Steve Jr. has come home to stay.
~HiJinx-Good news! My friend Mary (Intel Warrant Officer) e-mailed me from Ft. Dix yesterday, she's back in the States for good. She had a successful tour of duty in Iraq, none of her troops were hurt, and they accomplished their mission while she was there.

Troops prayer list
Updated as of 22 November 2003
~amom-Jim Robinson founder of FreeRepublic Navy Vet, Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club member, who allows us the use of this cyberspace, his charming wife Shelia, and sons Chris and John and their families.
~Chong-Commander-In-Chief, President Bush, and his family.
~amom- Our leaders, our fallen, our missing and the innocent.
~FrogMom- son-in-law SSG Mike in Baldad, Iraq, husband and father of two adorable children
~FrogMom-Joseph Hudson, and other POWs home safe, released from hospital at Ft Bragg on 23 April.
~EuroFrog-SSGMike ,currently in Balad, Iraq. We extend our prayer for safe return, 180 days are almost up! SSG Kris
~FrogFish-cousin SPC Chad of the 3rd Infantry in Kuwait.
~maranatha-son Mitchell, USAF air refueling wing in Oman
~SAMWolf-Freeper BKWells, and Freeper Radix’s son
~Tarheel-Capt. Eric US Army
~Tiki-Anton Peterson, Steve McKinley, Tim McKinley, Cory Simmons
~prairiebreeze-Marine Corpl. Nick, Navy seaman Brad
~LBGA- son Tyler, special ops, home safe, tired but in good health.
~HiJinx SPC Anna, BlackHawk Crew Chief has come home safe and sound and her husband is due home shortly, and PVT Tom B., cannon crewman. Tom is on his way over now after being here for the birth of his son.
~Mr. Silverback-Corpsman Michael USN discharged, Specialists John Colin Army near DMZ in Korea, Pudgeless and his unit the 333rd Mps of the Ill National Guard. County Board member Hadley returned to Freeport.
~JohnDoe#1-son Sergeant First Class Terry in Kuwait
~h8klintoon-Maj. William Glover, Sgt. Ellis Caudle
~fatima- Adam-spec ops, granddaughter Karen Army in Bagdad, Jim USN USS Constellation, freepers Daughter in law Patty Air Force.
~Shezza-darling husband Scott (Freeper Giles Corey) US Army
~amom-Defender2, 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub
~Lando Lincoln-Seth Crawford USAF
~68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub-the Men and Women at the Coos Bay Coast Guard Station. Along with active duty Coast Guard FReeper CWO Jackson.
~My back yard-brother’s youngest son Bryce Owen USNavy sailed right after Christmas
~RedWhiteBlue-nephew LCpl. Brian Kaul, USMC in Kuwait
~WLansberry-1st Lt. George Lansberry USAF
~doug from upland-PO2 Josh, USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT
~OhioWfan- Son PFC Eric, Army Reserves, activated in Bagdad , son’s unit buddy, Sean. Eric has begun a Bible Study at the Palace Grounds in Baghdad, and has asked us for prayer for him, and for the study.
~Heylady-Son Lt. Gregory Worden, 1ST CAV
~amom-Freeper Mike, WUSAF, Air National Guard
~GatorGirl -Husband LT Gator ̈- USNR, Brother in Law-Jason-USNR, Cousin Rich-USNR, Friend Tom-USNR, Friend Alex-USAFR
~amom-Major Sellers, USMC in the ME. Son Dillion and mom Betsy. 4 mo old. ...DADDY'S HOME!!! as of 5/24/03. Mom Sally and Dillon are doing fine.
~buffyt- Son in LawRobby Ellis Boswell USN
~WellsFargo94- CPT Bill, CPT Dan, MAJ John, CPT Tom, SGT Brian, CPT Dave, LTC Jim, Chaplain Dave, COL N, COL L, COL S, General Franks, LTC Pat, Dr. W
~GoRepGo-Husband Willie, Navy Corpsman, Ist MEU somewhere in the sandbox.
~amom-FReeper bkwells (Deployed on USS TARAWA (LHA-1)) from the Canteen.
~ProudArmyWife-Sgt. Roney 4th Infantry Divison (hubby)
~exhausted momma-Nephew, Matt Morgan, Navy
~Severa- husband (FR screen name Hostel), USN Submariner, brother Wes, USAF Little Rock AFB, friend Tosca, USN Corpsman, USNS Comfort, husband's cousin David, US Army, Fort Gordon, GA
~ stand4something- husband Mike AND son Scott, (both Air National Guard) deployed to the Mid-East)
~ JulieRNR21- a friend's grandson, Wesley in the USAF
~ LKR59-Timmy (Army) in Kuwait, John (Army) in Afghanistan, and Karen (Army) in Saudi Arabia
~Joy Angela-cousin Steve Jr. early 20s with a 6 year old son
~FReeper Proud Legions
~FReeper Hostel, USN Active Duty Submariner
~ OhioWfan -son Eric
~ mystery-ak -husband Mike and their son Jonathan both deployed
~ Gogranny - grandson
~ Inspectorette -son Eric
~ Slip18- nephew is aboard ship - active duty USN
~ anniegetyourgun - nephew Josh
~ Himyar - son Robert
~ homeschool mama- nephew Michael is in the Navy
~ CyberAnt- nephew Jody
~ milagro- son is deployed in the Mid-East
~ BlessedAmerican- nephew David Marine returned to San Diego 7 May 03.
~ Jewels1091 -friends of daughter, Ross (101st airborne), deployed to Mid-East, Chris (Navy) heading for Mid-East, cousin, Phil, serving in the US Navy
~ TruthNtegrity - lurker friend Pat’s nephew Ben (Marines) Kuwait and his mother Tracy.
~ TruthNtegrity- younger brother, John (Navy), has been deployed, and his family.
~TruthNtegrity-, US Navy - my cousin's son, pilot LTC Andrew deployed, Marine Keith.
UPDATE-Marine Keith. Still in Iraq. His son was hospitalized with a serious leg infection 2 weeks ago, and 10-days in a hospital for an active 8-yr old is tough. He is now recuperating quickly. Pray for his Mom, who is now MOM-DAD to their 3 children, the youngest 16 months.
~ Hoosiermama- Brad who has been deployed, His brother Jeff who has just enlisted. Shanty & Josh (husband & wife just deployed separately), Bill and Bill (both military academy grads), (when you teach, they're all your kids) Brad from Maigrey, Sgt. C. Cole
~notpoliticallycorewrecked- husband soon to be deployed
~notpoliticallycorewrecked- military email buddies
~ Wneighbor -son-in-law Thomas deployed, and his pregnant wife and mother of 3.
~ zlala -brother is deploying to the Mid-East
~ tamikamaria- cousin Annette (Navy) stationed on an aircraft carrier, Kbest friend’s brother is in the Army, sister is in the Navy
~ Radix -son is HOME!! WELCOME HOME!!!
~ Pippin - niece in the Air Force, nephew in the Army stationed in the Far East
~ WomanofStandard -a dear friend has three sons in the military K..Dustin (Army) - Mid-East-Troy (Air Force) V Italy, Tyler (Army) V just returned from Afghanistan and currently at Ft. Bragg, NC
~ baseball mom - friend¡¡ |s nephew, Thomas (Navy), just deployed
~ a special Freeper -brother is an Army Chaplain
~ hoosier_RW_conspirator -friend¡¡ |s son Danny (Army), just deployed
~ ivoteright - hubby (Air Force) has been deployed, he is also b-i-l to I’m ALL Right!
~ kemathen7 -boyfriend, John (AirForce)
~ GretchenEE -son of dear friends, Silas (Army), deployed to Mid-East
~bentfeather- Long Cut, Ms Cut, Mini Cut
~Warriormom -Three CIA agents whose plane crashed and may have been kidnapped in Colombia, dear friend Greg, deployed to Mid-East
~ Freeper Per-Ling active duty in the Navy has a wife and 2-year-old
~ leenie312 son Nicholas is in the Marines
~ rentense-friend's brother, Brian Z.
~ AF_Blue -active-duty AF, and family
~southern grit- coworker and dear friend SFC Sarah Augustine Kuwait
~Antijen-Jason Bontrager USN, Justin Lapp USN, Jack Snowden USN
~Antijen- friend Mark
~Jim O-L Cpl Travis Groce & Wife L Cpl Brandy Groce in Kuwait
~Snippy_about_it- Brian Wells (bkwells)and crew deployed on USS Tarawa, also his family back here at home, FReeper KKING (Tim is a contractor working in Kuwait in support our troops) , 2LT Radix Jr, Army-deployed (son of Freeper Radix), Freeper M1911A1 MSgt of Marines and his wife,freeper M0sby, Freeper Mojo2001's husband Navy-deployed, SPCKarl Gray Army-deployed(son of freeper beallyoucanbe)
~Blue Scourge- Sgt. Daniel Mayzik 3rd Armor Div.
~seams2me-Cody Buhler USN, David Blassingame USMC, Trey US Army, Darby Bishop US Army
~68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub-Long Cut (USN) and Mrs. Cut, SK1 Thurman (USN) and her sister Trish (USMC)
~Maigrey-cousin C.C.
~Condi2008- Friend J.D.
~tamikamaria- cousin Annette, best friend’s brother and sister
~lizbet-cousin’s son Marc
~jtill- friend P.A. and family
~steams tome-adopted servicemen Trey, David, Cody and Darby and their families.
~CENTVRIO EQVITVM and his loved ones
~Reagan’s Mom’s brother -in-law Dave
~Judith Anne’s friend Deana’s son
~Judith Anne’s daughter-in-law’s two brothers
~AFPhys
~AFPhys’ friend C.M.
~olliemb’s two young patients now serving
~Patsor Mike’s brother Tom and friend Kevin
~Char and Dale’s son Dean came home from Iraq at the end of April! He's fine
~Cindy’s stepson Adam
~Jim and Terri’s son Matt
~Joy’s son Michael
~Kay and Don’s son-in-law Stephan
~Jan’s nephew Michael
~patriciaruth’s cousin Ed
~Marvin and Carolyn’s sons Alan and Andrew
~TigerCap’s coworker Kevin
~JimRob-Two Nephews
~MozartLover-nephew
~G’nad-active duty
~Trish-active duty
~deadhead-cousin
~Armymarinemom-three sons
~WaterDragon-Son-in-law, grandson
~Maigrey-cousin
~ladtx-two sons
~Mama_Bear-nephew
~SKI Thurman-active duty
~David Osborne-active duty
~Boxerblues’-two sons and SGT Erik with the 101st somewhere in the desert.
~the piper-son
~sheeza-husband. Mr. shezza and his unit are coming back from Iraq! They're leaving from Kuwait on Thursday 18 SEP and will arrive in Baltimore (or maybe New Jersey, depending on Isabel) on Saturday morning.
~Diver Dave-niece
~weldgophardline-brother-in-law
~Future Snake Eater-cousin
~Warrior Nurse-active duty
~SpookBrat-nephew
~Consort-2 daughters
~big easy-a friend whose husband is a major(air ranger, delta force) would like our prayers.
~amom-FReeper fc2tomschermuly who says " God willing, we'll all come home safe and sound."
~ladyinred-Eric Ludwick and Scott Ludwick brothers and both deployed. Sons of a lifelong friend. They have a sister, Pamela who is also enlisted Army recently.
~bell-Sgt. Jason Beach, Joshua George USMC , Daniel Bristow USMC
~maranatha-General Franks and Don Rumsfeld,
~NRA2BFree-Major Peter Horn US Special Forces, LCPL Jonathan Marquez USMC, CPL Antonio Martin USMC
~GilesB-namesake Pfc Gyles, stationed in South Korea,
~armymarinemom-Spc. Brad-Army in Kuwait and active duty. Pfc Stuart-Army and Sgt. Graham-USMC.
~BeforeISleep-my son-Marines
~.30Carbine-Jim Ferry, Vermont Army National Guard, Chemical Weapons Defense Specialits/Trainer and his wife and 2 small children.
~AppyPappy-two adopted Marines from the next county who are in Kuwait.
~Lando Lincoln-remembering the gallant UK and Aussie troops who are at our side.
~condi2008-our friends, Jimmy, Brian, Jon, Dustin and their families.
~Chong-Chris Kollhoff, nephew-to-be who is shipping out tonight for Iraq.
~Textide- Please pray for Wes, my cousin, a Marine Captain now home from Kuwait.
~TEXOKIE- Niece, active army nurse still stateside. Niece's hubby, army, deployed to Afghanistan (returned home), Niece's brother-in-law, active army, deployment status unknown at this time
~Dubya-Royal Marine commandos
~twstearman-80+ crew of this itty, bitty ship I'm on. USS Devastator (MCM 6) home ported in Texas, is a mine countermeasures ship (i.e., mine sweeper), been deployed since early January, and we have no idea when we're going home. We all know now it's time to go to work.
~Dutchgirl - Norman Hamm USAFR and his mom and family. Hamms are old AF brat buddies, all grown up.
~BeAllYouCanBe-My son Karl, a National Guard infantryman and part of 293 Infantry Regiment. He is 26 has a wife and 18 month old daughter and lived in San Jose CA before last November when he was called up.
~Peach-my stepson - Steven Seaha, Master Sgt., Air National Guard, Jordan.
~Jaded- Matthew K. in the Navy
~Wild Irish Rogue- my brother,John-Special Forces, Airborne-deployed Mid East.
~Southflanknorthpawsis- my son-in-law, USMC Staff Sergeant, Dan; currrently in Kuwait.
~OhioWfan-Aaron, son of one of my students who is a Marine and has been stationed on the Iraqi border. Andy, the boyfriend of another of my students, involved in Psy Ops.
~weldgophardline-Merle ,in the Air Force Brother in law of weldgophardline. All the troops.
~NYCop-SSgt. Rojas, currently deployed in Kuwait and awaiting Iraqi POW's, he’s a co-worker and friend
~KineticKitty-Master Seargent Jenkins, SSG John Burton , SPC Paul Dobiesz , SGT Freeman, SFC Lewis, LT Nelson, LT Ortez, SGT Call, SGT Rogers, PVT Potao, SPC Morgan, PVT Surface, Master Seargent Wiley, Lt Col. McNeely, CPT Love, CPT Vaught, SSG Fortney. Most of these soldiers are in various Units with the 4th Infantry Division these are friends of mine and my husband mostly from the Ft. Hood area.
~HiJinx-those who have chosen to take up arms against tyranny, keep them safe, help them to accomplish their objectives, bring them home to their loved ones
~NotJustAnotherPrettyFace-my nephew - paratrooper with the US Army
~glory-nephew Adam, is working patriot missiles in the Army. Hubby's best buddy, Eric, who is in a refueling unit for the Air Force.
~DAVEY CROCKETT-Steve Countryman US Airforce, Josh Ray US Marines, Brad Newman US Navy, Tex (my son buddy) US Navy
~baseballmom - asking for prayers for freeper Mystix, USMC
~Mrs.Liberty-nephew Sgt Charles Mapa, Jr. USAF C17-Crew chief.
~2ndIDVet- J.B. and B.G.
~jwalsh07-1st LT Brian Helsin Iraq, Ist LT Alex D’Amico Marines
~free kitty-close friend Barbara who just went in the Army.
~The Right Stuff- my penpal, Sadie from the USS Boxer.
~sakka- email friend, Rick, Navy USS Constellation and all the others on his ship.
~baseballmom-my brother’s brother-in-law, Chris, USAF, Blackhawk Pilot-Iraq. "Lord, guard and guide the ones who fly,..."
~mountaineer-a friend’s son, Sgt Andrew J with the 101st Airborne in Iraq, and another friend’s son, Stephen M with the USAF somewhere in the Kuwait area.
~UncleHambone-Jeff M and Steven L of the 3rd Marines.
~Valin-waitress at my favorite greasy spoon’s nephew is over there. Marine Cpl Mark Arnold .
~amom- co worker’s boyfriend Cpl Pablo Gabriel Alarcon USMC Kuwait
~snickers via homeschool mama- Alexis Lankford, HHC 1-63 Armor 173rd Ariborne Brigade, older daughter in Kuwait Heather (Lankford) Ballone 124th Transportation Co, my son Clayton Lankford 2-118th Infantry.
~pollywog- grand-nephew SPC Jonathan Cook from Eagle Idaho in Kuwait (probably in Iraq by now). He will be 21 on April 7th.
~TEXOKIE-SGT Elsa, USA, was on the front lines in Iraq receiving prisoners of war as they surrender now back home as of Aug 28; her brother CPT Mark, USA, at FT Benning, GA; her boyfriend, CPT Nat, USA, 1st Cav at Ft. Hood, TX and her cousin SP Miranda waiting for deployment at Ft. Sill, OK.
~SAMWolf- Karl, BeAllYouCanBe’s son, entered Iraq on Tuesday (25 Mar 03) Infantryman National Guard in support of the 101ST Airborne Division.
~Xenalyte-Daniel Osborne, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 1-43rd out of Ft. Riley, Kansas friend of a friend. Danny Oz, special ops, son of a friend and colleague.
~judicial meanz- the men and women of the 29th ID, and the Virginia Guard all over the world.
~dandelion-PFC Valentine Leyva, 3rd Battalion, 1st Division in the Marines. He is a friend of my daughter. And her daughter (OK, Airman) stateside.
~Smocker-my TWO brothers now both safely stateside.
~repubmom-Wendy’s son Chris, a marine on the front lines. A prayer for Wendy too who is home with two daughters and shouldering this by herself.
~TEXOKIE-Matt S. Army
~Hamilton2-Jeffrey Ron Davis and his wife Megan
~Dubya -Mary and Freddy Medellin parents of Cpl. Jesus Martin "Marty" Antonio Medellin Fort Worth's first casualty in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
~beachn4fun-CW2 Dan Alexander stationed in Kuwait and PFC.Kenneth Lewis Marshall USMC
~Phyllis-my “adopted “ soldier PFC Edward, Operation Enduring Freedom, U.S. Army.
~HiJinx-txradioguy along with his 4 kids.
~LetMyPeopleGo-brother, SSG Michael (Dom), over there in the Army. He has a wife and a son.
~Mosby-husband, MSgt. Daniel Edwards USMC
~boxerblues-son who has been injured in Iraq.
~RobbyS-Son Joel is 2nd Lieutenant with the 2nd ACR in Baghdad.
~StarCMC - brother and fellow FReeper, kjfine, to your list. Capt. and commander of the 969th MCT in Iraq traveling his normal location 9-11, thru 9-16. Prayers for his safety in travel and for his safe return to his normal location, and eventually, HOME. KJFine returned safely to his normal location -- no incidents whatsoever!
~TexKat-son SGT. K. Smith in Kuwait
~SnarlinCubBear - Jason U U.S. Army - mechanic, on the Blackhawk helicopters & SnarlinCubBear’s penpal.
~manna- Jay, who is in Bagdad with the Army, husband of someone manna knows.
~RagtimeCowgirl-Gen(s). Myers, Pace, Abizaid, Sanchez - Amb. Bremer, the Iraqi Council members and a couple of 'reporters' in Iraq: SSG. Washington in Tallil - heading up convoys, and "Chief Wiggles" in Baghdad interrogating those who know info that could save lives.
~Explorer89- brother, John, who will is leaving this week to escort convoys along "Ambush Alley"
~DAVEY CROCKETT- Brandon McFadden US Army Military Police 210th.
~fatima- Karen, Jim and David and for those who have gone to God,eternal rest.
~RagtimeCowgirl- CheneyChick who's working with the troops she respects re. recruitment and retention - and will be heading to Iraq in the future. Also Also, Scott ("war daddy") S., a hero who's returning to Iraq soon as a civilian security consultant.
~Mr.Silverback- John Buford retired Army Lt. Colonel currently away from home training soldiers in peacekeeping and community relations; he has a wealth of knowledge on these matters from Bosnia and Kosovo tours. Also an outstanding community leader.
~Mr. Silverback-PFC David Modes II of Apple Canyon Lake, IL. recuperating at Landstuhl. Adam L. Thomas, 21 of Burbank, IL and Chad Fuller, 23 of Potsdam, NY. KIA, their families. SSgt Richard Gordon, who has just received orders for a 15 month tour in Korea.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Charles - Freeper boomop1 (21 years AF) - and for his son Michael in Iraq w/ the AR 3rd. BDF
~VHAW-co-worker and friend Mike Brooks, a C-12 pilot going “over there”
~Tiki-Cathy Mitchell’s husband Tony, Air Force Commander in Afghanistan. Also friend Leota's nephew in Baghdad and a grand nephew who just completed basic training in the Marines.
~Kellie-husband, Phillip Bell Army reservist from 795th Postal from Bethany, MO serving in Balad, Iraq.
~Dlfromthedesert-A Tucson soldier,Sgt. Sean Cataudella killed in Baghdad on Saturday. August 30. He left behind a wife and 3 small children, including an infant he had never seen. His father, Sal Cataudella, is taking the loss of his only son very hard.
~Ragtime Cowgirl, Texokie and amom- “anonymous FReeper FRiend.” going into harm's way.
~HighRoadtoChina- nephew Paul Robert Bennett, lance corporal, USMC, in Kuwait now after serving in Iraq.
~Ragtime Cowgirl- John F., Melbourne, Fla...Army, home from Iraq on break.
~Wneighbor- Jacob who is on his way to his own deployment and the new fast friend of Wneighbor’s daughter.
~My back yard- Wneighbor's son-in-law who remains in harm's way. Bless his wife and children and all his loved ones while they wait his return. We call forth blessing and protection for his child aborning in the womb during his deployment. Let this entire extended family be surrounded in your love and our prayers.
~bent feather-Pvt. Gabriel Munoz US Army 10th Mountain Division
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Our non-Freeper Veteran 'wardaddy Scott' arrived at the Baghdad Int'l Airport
~Explorer89-My brother is now in Kuwait, waiting to be sent home!! He was just made a captain
~Ragtime Cowgirl-Over 100,000 Americans working for private firms are now providing security, food service, mail delivery, business and reconstruction help
~Bosco-my cousin, Michael. He's been deployed somewhere this past week. Also pray for his wife, Michelle and their infant (2 mos) daughter, Alexis. Alexis appears to have some sort of genetic liver problem and the doctors are not sure exactly what it is yet. Alexis goes in this coming monday (11/10) for more testing. Ask God to give the doctors wisdom to discern what the problem is with the baby. Ask the Lord to give Michelle strength and faith to deal with her husband's deployment and the baby's health issue.
~Ragtime Cowgirl-doug from upland's co-worker, Nick, to the prayer list? He's a civilian head of a company that makes a lifesaving film to cover glass and prevent it from exploding outward - currently working in Iraq for the CPA, traveling "RPG alley".
~Ragtime Cowgirl-From our 'friend' in Iraq tonight: One of our guys got blown up in a convoy today. He'll live but that won't make news because he's just a contractor... Would you please say a prayer for his wounded co-worker, and for our friend tonight ~ for healing, and strength, comfort and clarity - and for protection. Thank you.
~Texokie-Cathy Mitchell’s husband,Tony, is an Air Force Commander in Afghanistan. He says "We need Christians to pray, pray, pray." Please pray for God's protection of our troops and HIS wisdom for their commanders.
~Anymarinmom-Armymarinmom prayer for her son who is going back to Iraq after an R&R.
~manna-Master Sgt. Kevin Morehead and his family
~Saundra Duffy-PFC Seth Grubb, 82nd Airborne, serving in Iraq. He's the soldier I picked to send a box a month to from the "Adopt-A-Unit" program. ~amom-fatima whose Karen is there and for some reason is feeling it more, it is hard and I pray with and for all of us united for our loved ones.
~armymarinemom-We recieved no bad news from Brad regarding his travel back into Iraq. Praise God! I need to add both of his brothers to our daily list. Stuart is deployed in Afghanistan and the oldest of the three Graham has recieved orders for transfer to a unit that is going to Iraq next year. This is a big pill for Grahams family to swallow and his wife needs prayers to come to grips that his husband is leaving her and their son for a while. This was sudden and a surprise for the family.

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS!!

Among the various activities which are part and parcel of this time of year, I know that many on this forum have pledged a certain increment of the day to hold devotions for those fighting the War on Terrorism; our troops, our allies, our support personnel, our intelligence services, and our leadership.

Last month, from November 10 to December 10, many here answered our Call to Arms to give an increase in the usual devotions for our Cause. From that Call to Arms, these are things for which we were specifically praying:

"Over the last several days, we have seen the increasing successful attacks on our helicopters by the enemy's use of hand held rockets. We are witnessing the possible court martial of an officer who was able to obtain solid information WITHOUT TORTURE of an attack on his men, thereby saving many lives. We learned today that the Supreme Court is hearing a case in order to decide whether prisoners in Guantanomo will be granted access to the US Court system. The Senate Select Intelligence Committee has been rendered impotent because a memo surfaced outlining a plan to use classified information bringing down the Bush Administration. The loss of integrity of this committee directly puts the lives of our troops at risk. There have been stories reported that large cities in our nation have had threats once more leveled toward them by Al Quaeda during this time of Ramadan. The press has continued to ramp up its "Quagmire!" coverage by emphasizing the death toll and ignoring stories of the victorious work our troops are really doing. I know I am not alone in the distress I feel in the face of these challenges to our troops and our nation. While wrestling with the helpless feelings, it was laid on my heart to come to the Prayer Warriors here to see if together we can forge a response on the spiritual front of these battles. "

We have seen during this last month the capture of a number of weapons caches by our troops, with, by God's grace, the minimizing of the ability for the enemy to perpetrate those helicopter attacks. We saw the great victory in battle by our troops with the killing, wounding, and capturing of numbers of the enemy. We saw the charges dismissed against LTC West. Many of us are disappointed that such a fine officer's career was ruined, but we are nevertheless grateful that he has been spared further legal problems. We wish him well and hope that many opportunities will open to him.

For some of the things which we were praying for, I have not heard progress or status reports. I am hoping that some of you out there would be willing to fill us in on the status of the Supreme Court case and the Senate Intelligence Committee memo scandal.

I know I rejoice with all here that the big cities of our nation were spared from attacks which had been threatened during the Islamic month of Ramadan.

Unbeknownst to me, when the Lord laid the Call to Arms on my heart, a fellow Freeper Prayer Warrior had a similar Call. Xzins received the Calling to pray and fast specifically for the capture of Saddam Hussein. I am so very grateful for his efforts and for all who have responded. As all of you well know, four days after the conclusion of our Call to Arms project, Saddam Hussein was captured. It is my hope that while our Call to Arms was not directed at the capture of Saddam, our extra prayers and devotions were supportive and very much a part of the equation of the victory!

It is a humbling thing to envision our Lord knocking on the doors of our hearts pleading for us to be partners with Him in bringing about positive change in the world through our prayers. How grateful I am that we have received the Call and we have answered. How much more grateful I am with the vision and certitude that Prayer Warriors all over this nation and the earth have also received a prompting to a Call to Arms during this time at some level and have been praying in their homes and places of worship as well as those of us here online. The LOrd, in return has heard our calls and has answered! It is truly the prayers of ALL who have effected this great Victory, by God's grace!

(I would like to mention here that I have word from xzins that he will be leading a prayer thread focusing now on the truth of whereabouts/capture of Osama Bin Laden. All are invited to participate in that very focused prayer effort. I do not have a link at this time. Xzins, you are welcome at any time to post a link and any reminder links here. The link to the Capture Saddam threads is here:

http://freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/1021327/posts?q=1&&page=151 )

I had not had the expectation that by increasing my devotions, even by a small increment, it would bring into my life a miracle. But that indeed happened. As most of you know, I had not thought I would be able to be with my family on Thanksgiving Day. The way to do so unexpectedly, and if I may say so, miraculously opened up, and I was able to spend a very special time with my family giving Thanks for our many blessings. Glory to God in the Highest!

I am very interested in hearing your response to our CAll to Arms project. Did things happen in the news or global situation which you feel was a result of a number of us banding together? Did you have a small miracle in your life which was an unlooked-for gift?

To all who have joined us in praying for our troops and the issues in our special Call to Arms, please accept my gratitude.

BELOVED MERCIFUL FATHER,

We are so absolutely filled with the joy of Victory! Father, you have instructed us and caused us to pray. You have, by your Grace, listened to our prayers. We are so grateful for the victories we have seen over this past month. We are so grateful for your Plan and Will, and are so eager to participate with you in unfolding that Plan and Will.

As we prayed earlier, on xzin's thread, we give gratitude for your gracious answer to our prayers. We demand, according to thy Will that this man who has now been captured be held FULLY accountable before his people for the crimes he has committed. Father, there has been a momentum in the past for defeat to be snatched from the jaws of Victory, by forces who would fritter away the hard-won efforts of those who gave their blood and treasure. Father, seal this Victory, and let not those forces of darkness and evil tamper with it. Let not this man escape Justice. Let there be no 'sweetheart' deals or any other compromise. Certainly, if there is mercy to be granted in the situation, guide the placement of that mercy. Let there be mercy for the Iraqi people who have suffered under his hand.

Father, we support our xzins in his next assignment which we understand to be praying for your Will concerning disposition of Osama Bin Laden. We ask that you will guide him and give him and all praying with him the proper words which are the formulae for Victory in this matter.

We give all glory of the Victory to you and we thank you for guiding our President and all our military in the achievement of this Victory. We praise you, Father, and in the name of our beloved Saviour, we thank you for this Christmas miracle, and like happy expectant children on Christmas morning, we are looking for the next box under the tree! THANK YOU!!

Amen

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PRAYER WARRIOR FIELD TRIP
I ran across an article posted by yonif concerning the thoughts and perceptions that someone experiences when they lose a loved one. The author captured many of the thoughts and impressions I had myself when my father passed several years ago. I consider it a very good read and invite you to look at it.

http://freerepublic.com/focus/news/1042083/posts?page=1

U.S. Urges Citizens to Leave Saudi Arabia

Dec 17, 5:00 PM (ET)

By BARRY SCHWEID

WASHINGTON (AP) - Nonessential American diplomats and the families of all U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia should leave, the State Department said Wednesday, stepping up its warnings about risks in the country.

Private U.S. citizens should consider leaving as well, the department said. And Americans making plans to go to Saudi Arabia were advised to defer any such travel in light of "the potential for further terrorist activities."

The departure of U.S. officials and family members was not ordered, but was voluntary. Expenses were to be paid by the U.S. government.

Americans who travel to Saudi Arabia or remain there despite the warning were told to register with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh or the consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran so arrangements can be made to keep them up to date.

"The U.S. government continues to receive indications of terrorist threats aimed at American and Western interests," the department said. This includes the targeting of transportation, the statement said.

"American citizens in Saudi Arabia should remain vigilant, particularly in public places associated with the Western community," the department said.

Last month, in the latest of a string of terror incidents, a housing compound in Riyadh was bombed, killing 17 people and wounding more than 100. Police arrested a Saudi citizen believed to have helped smuggle in from Yemen the weapons used in the attack, the Saudi daily Okaz reported Wednesday.

American and Saudi officials blamed that attack and suicide bombings at three other housing projects in May on Saudi exile Osama bin Laden's al-Qaida terrorist network. Thirty-five people, including nine attackers were killed in the May attacks.

Saudi officials say most of the weapons used in militant operations in Saudi Arabia - including the May suicide attacks - were smuggled from Yemen.

Praying in agreement with you, TEX, xzins. Lord, seal this great Victory and protect our troops. Thank you for the many blessings of the past month, for answering our prayers and for the special gift and guidance of TEXOKIE and xzins, who remind us of Your word and will when our own weaknesses threaten to overcome our faith in You.

Praying for the capture of Osama Bin Laden and his followers, that you continue to guide our leaders, on this forum, in our homes, our communities, our military, our nation.

Thank you, Lord, for other results from TEX's "Call to Arms" ~ that the Iraqi people who suffered so under Saddam Hussein saw Your light and strength shining in our military men and women, and in our President who risked his safety to fly into dangerous Iraq on Thanksgiving, and who thanked You to all who listened ~ so that the longsuffering Iraqi people found the courage and chose to stand up with us, to help our troops, and fight for their own freedom...Iraqi mothers and children rallying in the center of Bagdhad, Iraqi students joining together at the University to stand up for our Coalition and against terrorism, in the gathering of leaders in Afghanistan - in spite of the continued attacks from our enemies - who continue to miss and reap their own rewards - and we thank you for that daily miracle, as well, dear Lord - for the continued protection of our troops, and the defeat of our enemies.

In Jesus's mighty name, Amen.

REPORT AND SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUEST FROM A MIGHTY PRAYER WARRIOR SERVING IN IRAQ!!

I have received a report and special request for prayer from a soldier serving in Iraq. Exerpts from his letter follow:

Dear -----(name of a large prayer group he belongs to),

My name is ----- and I am serving our beloved country in western Iraq. Through a dear friend of mine - I found out that you have kept me on your prayers and invocations. I would like to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all your calls ... on my behalf.

I am going to share with you a recent event that will reaffirm the infallible power of light that your ... sincere invocations have generated.

Last Monday, 17 November 03, I was tasked to participate in motor convoy mission from my base camp in AR RAMADI to BAGHDAD. The travel time between AR RAMADI and BAGHDAD was about one hour and a half through highway 10. Ten minutes into the trip near a town called Habbaniyah, insurgents ambushed us. They
tried to engage us with three Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG) as well as small arms fire. Suddenly, one of those RPG rounds, carrying high explosives shrapnel, landed approximately seven meters away from our vehicle. At that short range, we would have surely died or would have sustained serious injuries, not to mention, that it would have completely destroyed our vehicle. Immediately after the explosions, the insurgents engaged us with small arms fire into their kill zone. Fortunately, and since the vehicle was still operational, we managed to return fire to the enemy and quickly remove ourselves from the ambush kill zone.

After that ambush incident, we consolidated our efforts and arrived safely to Baghdad. By God's grace, we sustained no casualties and didn't lose any equipment. Had it not been for your ...calls to St. Michael, ... and Rosaries..., I would not have survived the ambush. My fellow soldiers are also grateful but still wonder - in awe - how is it that we could have possibly escaped unharmed.

The high explosive concentration, used against us, normally has a killing radius greater than 50 meters. We were well within the killing radius and even closer to the point of impact. At some level or another we all realized that our lives were spared for a divine purpose.

On the average, American soldiers sustained approximately 30 attacks per day. We have been fortunate but we need more light, protection, decrees and invocations in order to bring the concepts of freedom and divine justice into this country. I am asking that when you do your ... calls, invoke and direct the light of God on these particular points.

- Place light and protections to all American soldiers along highways 1 and 10 (these highways run from east to west).- Please ask that Archangel Michael clear the way for all vehicles and
personnel so they do not strike mines along the way...and to clear the airways for our helicopters. ... Call for the protection of all Iraqis that will embody the Holy Cause of Freedom
- the LOrd to arrest and bring to divine judgment all anti- freedom, anti- women, anti- Christ and anti-Love entities operating all over Iraq, particularly in Baghdad, AR Ramadi, Fallujah, (the Sunni triangle), Mosul, Tikrit and Baquoba.
- And finally, please invoke that Iraq be also consecrated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

May God multiply and grant you more abundance, blessings and protection for your service to the light.

------

BELOVED HEAVENLY FATHER,

We are grateful for the protection and preservation of ------ and his unit under that recent attack. We give you Glory, Father for all which is Good!

Father, in response to this hero's request for specific prayers, we offer the following:

Father, we ask that you will send legions of angels from St Michael's bands to stand guard over every square inch and centimeter of and country surrounding the Iraqi highways 1 and 10! Shatter all plots, plans, and preparations to stage ambushes along these routes against our troops and allies! Let the Lord Christ reveal the presence of mines and direct our trucks, tanks, and other conveyances away from any mines present. We ask that you will direct our troops in the continuing efforts to gather up those RPGs in enemy hands.

Father, let your angels clear the air and all which opposes the proper functioning of our helicopters and other air vehicles. Surround these aircraft with your mighty hand. Protect and guide the pilots, the mechanics, and all who travel in these aircraft.

Father, in your abundant Mercy, we ask that you will especially protect and give a particular blessing and boost to those Iraqis who love Freedom and who are able to catch the Vision of your Plan for Freedom for their nation. Shatter and disperse all opposition and hatred of that Freedom! Expose and bind those who are the insurgents and the foreign enemies of Freedom who never say die.

Father, let your Son judge righteous judgement over the enemies of Freedom according to your own Will, Plan, and Timing! Shatter all anti-Freedom! Shatter all anti-woman! Shatter all anti-Christ! Shatter all anti-love! forces, momentums, energies, and entities operating in Iraq particularly in Baghdad, AR Ramadi, Fallujah, (the Sunni triangle), Mosul, Tikrit and Baquoba! Clear and heal the historical records of those momentums! Clear and heal the memories of her people from all which is hurtful and painful and not in alignment with your Vision and Plan for them.

Father, we are grateful for our troops and their allies, and all who are serving to support them with supplies, contract labor services, and intelligence operations. Let that which we call forth for Iraq be also extended to Afghanistan and any other nation for whom our prayers can be applied.

Per the specific request of one of our soldiers serving in danger, in the name of our Lord Jesus, and according to your Will, we consecrate Iraq to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Let this and all our prayers be adjusted to your divine Will. If we pray in error or are praying amiss in any way, we ask that you will correct the lack, and read only the sincerity of our hearts in our desire to see your Will done this day!

Amen

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