Posted on 04/09/2009 5:23:37 PM PDT by SandRat
Iraqi Police and Soldiers with the 25th Infantry Division deliver school supplies donated by the Hyde family of Modesto, Calif. First Lt. Daniel Hyde was killed in action Mach 7, 2009, by an insurgent attack. Courtesy photo, 25th Infantry Division.
FOB BRASSFIELD-MORA — Iraqi Police and U.S. Soldiers recently teamed up for a special delivery of more than 300 backpacks stuffed with school supplies to the children in Taraysha.
The backpacks, filled not only with school supplies, but also with treats and toys, were sent on behalf of the family of 1st Lt. Daniel Hyde, who was a platoon leader in Company A, and was killed by an insurgent attack in Samarra, March 7.
Moa’tusm is an area not accustomed to receiving humanitarian aid from Coalition or Iraqi forces. “The people here feel neglected,” said 1st Lt. Nicholas Stavros, 2nd platoon leader in Company A. “We are hoping to reshape their opinion of Iraqi and Coalition forces, and I think we’re on a good path to that objective.”
Sgt. 1st Class Omar Mosely, 2nd platoon’s platoon sergeant, expounded on Stavros’ statement by saying, “We are at a point in this conflict where more and more people are beginning to warm up to us. They used to see us doing the door-kicking thing, but for the last several months, our mission has been primarily humanitarian aid. The people, as well as our Soldiers, definitely prefer the new method.”
“The commitment the Hyde family has shown to achievement of the long-term goal in Iraq, despite their tragic loss, is exemplary,” said Lt. Col. Sam Whitehurst, the battalion commander. “It’s that type of support for the mission that makes all the difference, and keeps our Soldiers’ heads in the game.”
The Majd Al-Arab School is the latest in a long line of schools to receive such aid. Citizens from all across the United States continually donate care packages destined for U.S. Soldiers as well as the Iraqi people.
Capt. Kevin Clarke, the company commander, has already earmarked some 1,000 more backpacks for delivery to additional schools in the area.
The USA military is, quite simply, the greatest force for Good ever seen on Planet Earth.
Examples like this are part of the reason why.
God is already enjoying your company, Lt. Hyde. In the bye and bye I hope to have a chance to shake your hand and thank you for your service (but not too soon).
In the meantime, your fellow soldiers, family and friends are clearly making a difference and carrying on your name in the best of all possible traditions.
God bless you all.
Bump!
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