I wanted to take this time to THANK all of you for making our holiday a beautiful one. This time a year I have over a hundred Marines most of them under the age of 25. Some are experiencing there first tour in a combat zone where some are experiencing there third like myself. What you are doing is greatly appreciated by myself and the Marines of my company. Together with your support we can win this War on Terrorism! Everything is being used from the candy to the hygiene items and the stuff stockings. It gives them the Christmas spirit considering the most we ever see as an Infantry Unit is plenty of sand. We love our job of keeping Americans safe. To give you an idea, 13 Marines have reenlisted here in Iraq. This is a big deal when they know we are coming back in January 2008.

Additionally I want to extend my best wishes for a safe Holiday to you and your families! When do we come home? Shortly after the holidays. If your organization is sending more packages just remember after 15 December it will be extremely difficult to get them here on time. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!!

Semper Fidelis means "Always Faithful"!

"Power of the Diamond"
First Sergeant
Echo Company
2D Battalion 8th Marines