Friends and families of the 2nd Bn, 7th Marines,

We have arrived safe and sound and are currently conducting a relief in place with the 3rd Bn, 4th Marines in and around Fallujah. Soon we will be arrayed throughout our area of operations conducting counter insurgency operations and developing the Iraqi Security Forces. 3/4 is doing a great job showing us the ropes and setting us up for success. Lt Col Kennedy and the Marines of 3/4 have performed magnificently and should be proud of what they have accomplished in this troubled city. Much work remains to be done, but the foundations for success have been laid and 2/7 is up to the challenge.

The movement to Iraq could not have gone smoother. The operations and logistics Marines of the Bn (S-3 and S-4) flawlessly planned and executed the movement of nearly 1000 Marines and our gear halfway around the world and delivered us to our Forward Operating Base here at Camp Mercury without a hitch. Of course it was the SNCOs of the battalion, as it always is, who ensured we arrived with all of our gear, organized, and ready to operate. I could not be prouder of our Senior Enlisted leaders.

The Marines are in exceptionally high spirits and I have never seen a more cohesive and energetic team. Our small unit leaders have prepared our Marines well, the Marines are good and they know it! Certainly there are challenges ahead, but none that we cannot handle.

If you have not heard from your Marine please understand. A relief in place of one battalion by another is a very busy time. Additionally, two battalions are currently swamping any phone and internet services available. Soon your loved ones will have time to catch their breath and write a letter, send an e-mail, or place a phone call. Until then, know that you are all in our hearts and that we look forward to your letters and e-mails.

Semper Fidelis
Lt Col JA L'Etoile