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.

I am praying and agreeing.
HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL
I will be praying and watching tonight.

Article published Dec 31, 2003
Town ready for bash
Kure Beach fireworks display to herald in brand new year

KURE BEACH - It should be good fireworks weather tonight for hundreds of celebrators expected to ring in the New Year at Kure Beach’s annual party – the only big, local celebration of the event.

DJ music and dancing begins at 10 p.m. at the base of K Avenue near the Kure Pier, said Frances Massey, president of the Island of Lights, the community group that plans the annual party.

Popcorn, hot chocolate and soft drinks will be sold at the event, as will noisemakers, but alcohol won’t, Ms. Massey said.

"It’s family-oriented," said Tim Fuller, a member of the Kure Beach council and the Island of Lights. "It’s like a big block party."

In the seconds before midnight, Kure Beach Mayor Betty Medlin and Carolina Beach Mayor Dennis Barbour will lead the countdown to the midnight drop of a large, lighted ball from the extended ladder of a Carolina Beach firetruck, Ms. Massey said.

Then the pyrotechnics begin, Mr. Fuller said. Lasting about 15 minutes and costing about $3,000, the fireworks will be shot from about 100 yards south of the pier over the ocean. Mr. Fuller said the pier would be open for spectators.

The view of the explosions should be a good one.

Light winds and mostly clear skies are forecast with temperatures in the low 40s or upper 30s around midnight, said Dave Loewenthal with the National Weather Service office in Wilmington.

The Island of Lights New Year’s celebration is about 12 years old, Ms. Massey said. It used to be held in Carolina Beach but moved to Pleasure Island’s smaller partner two years ago.

Fox News just reported that the Iraqi thugs, suicide bombers, terrorist, etc. has proclaimed Janurary 2nd through the 6th, 2004 to be The Days for Explosions. Prayers needed for our troops, coalition troops, and the freedom desiring, peace longing Iraqi citizens.

Prayer ping. Please pray for safety for our military. TexKat- thank you for the ping. Blessings, trussell As always, if you want on or off my prayer ping list, please let me know. All requests happily honored.

"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen."

O God, I beseech You, watch over those exposed to the horror of war, and the spiritual dangers of a soldier’s or sailor’s life.

Give them such a strong faith that no human respect may ever lead them to deny it, nor fear ever to practice it. By Your grace, O God, fortify them against the contagion of bad example, that being preserved from vice, and serving You faithfully, they may be ready to meet you face to face when they are so called: through Christ our Lord. Amen

Sacred Heart! Inspire them with sorrow for sin, and grant them pardon. Mother of God! Be with them on the battlefield during life and at the hour of death, and grant that they may live and die in the grace of thy Son. Amen. St. Joseph! Pray for them. May their Guardian Angel protect them. Amen.

Heavenly Father, we return to give You thanks that You have issued a call to prayer for the safety and protection of our Defenders of Freedom and that this coming week might be especially brutal, if the enemy's plans prevail. We come before You, Merciful God, with petition that You would thwart each and every plan of destruction. Let no harm come near those who serve ... give them wisdom and discernment that they might prevent the shedding of innocent blood.

Father, I pray that You would cause the hearts of our troops and the coalition forces and the Iraqi people to unite as one with a desire to prevent death and destruction. Grant them good success, O God, for their mission is liberation and freedom and the ability of citizens to live peaceably in the land. Thank You, Creator God, for those who stand watch. May the Spirit of God cause us to stand watch over them before the Throne of Grace, in praise and petition, and in the Name of Jesus, Amen ...

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