Update:
The above letter was forwarded to me by Scott Ott, perhaps best known on the internet for his site ScrappleFace. Those who are familiar with his work know he's one of the finest news satirists around. But recently he put up a rare non-satire post - a tribute to his grandmother, the woman who raised him. Her name was Jessica Rachel McMaster, and if you recognize that last name it's because it's the same as the commander of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. Her husband is his uncle.
News such as the letter above moves rather quickly among (rightfully) proud family members. Scott and I have been friends for some time. He knew that letter contained a story that needed to be told, and I'm honored he chose to forward it on to me.
I've had a few people ask if that's the same McMaster who led the attack in the Battle of 73 Easting and wrote the book Dereliction of Duty : Johnson, McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to Vietnam
.
The answer is yes.
A few other folks have questioned the authenticity of the letter. I suppose that's to be expected. All I can offer by way of response is this, sent to me today and independent of Scott's contribution
This letter is not a fake it was given to my husband the commander of the Third Armored Cavalry Regiment. This is the second letter written .The first was written to GWB and Gen Casey asking if the 3ACR could stay and finish what they started. Why is it so hard to believe that the American soldier could have done so much for Iraq and in turn the people of Iraq? The Iraqi general who served along side our great men and women also sent a letter:
*****
To the Troopers and families of the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment:
Bravery, strength, determination, good intentions, flexibility, knowledge, and impartiality: these were the characteristics that you displayed through partnership with the 3d Iraqi Army Division during combat operations in Western Ninewa Province. Each and every day your wise operational and successful leadership was the decisive factor in us achieving victory. Again, we recognize clearly the main reason for victory was your leadership. These necessary qualities are the same for any person, army, or nation that is looking for victory, and they were the reason why the Brave Rifles and faith in their goal along with their principles, high morals, and focus on their mission, coupled with perfect logistics support, impartiality, and sincere leadership made them the right unit for this mission. The Regiment’s ability to plan, conduct excellent coordination, supervise and choose the right decisive actions along with their great leadership helped us to develop individual Soldier skills and increase the capability of the division. It is said that piles of construction materials alone cannot build a house and a group of people cannot be considered an army. The Regiment’s leadership and devotion to duty helped us form an army. Its actions have resulted in strong friendships that will last a lifetime. The Troopers’ behavior is an example of wise leadership, which is the tree and the reputation they will leave behind is the shadow of this tree. So I offer my heartfelt thanks, appreciation, and respect to you for your sacrifices. The troopers of the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment will disappear from our eyes but remain in our hearts. We send our greetings to you and wish you a well deserved reunion with your families.
God Bless
MAJOR GEN. KHORSHEED SALEEM AL-DOSEKEY
3RD IA INFANTRY DIVISION COMMANDER
*****
I'll close by adding that one person who didn't seek to publicize this in any way is Col McMaster. But such stories need to be told.
(Original post: 2006-02-13 21:49:57)
