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April 28
(4th LAR's Charlie, Delta, and H&S are attached
to this task force)
Greetings from Iraq! I apologize that it has been so long
since my last letter; but as you can imagine, current operations have
kept us busy.
We are now starting the fourth week of Operation Iraqi Freedom. As expected,
the temperatures are increasing, but they are no worse than a summer exercise
in 29 Palms which most of us have done or will do in our careers. I would
have to say our biggest environmental challenges are the flies and other
insects, but the Marines continue to adapt and overcome as they make massive
fly swatters from MRE boxes and poles.
As
I am sure you have heard on the news, our first objective was a strong
point of resistance, and it was critical to our efforts further north.
The Marines were primed and ready to take the fight to the enemy. We named
Task Force Tarawa for a battle where Marines exhibited courage and honor,
and there is no doubt that the Marines and Sailors of our Task Force have
lived up to that reputation.
No one likes war, and no one likes being away from his or her family.
As I've told the Marines, we would rather come this far to remove the
regime and its reign of terror before we are forced to deal with it on
our home soil. As our Commander in Chief was recently quoted, "Peaceably
if we can. Forcibly if we must." If any gratification can come from
this, it is the look of relief and joy as we liberate, feed and take care
of the Iraqi people and they realize that the regime is losing control.
There are cheers of joy from crowds as we enter new areas. Although no
amount of gratification can ever fill the void or ease the sorrow of our
fallen Marines, their names and memories will live with us forever.
I
know that there is one prevailing question on everyone's mind, and I am
sorry that I do not have an answer for when this operation will be over
and when we will be coming home. I can only assure you that we will be
home as soon as our work here is done.
I have had the opportunity to frequently walk the lines and personally
talk with and thank each Marine for the effort given over the previous
weeks. I have been telling you through these letters that I am proud of
every Marine and Sailor, but I wanted to make sure that they heard it
directly from me. As I walked among them, I could see that morale and
spirits were high. They know that they are making a difference, and that
is what they joined the Marine Corps and Navy to do. They have measured
up to their predecessors who have proudly worn the eagle, globe and anchor
in combat.
As always, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Please keep the mail coming
to your loved ones. I have seen the smiles a letter can create. As they
continue to receive your letters, I remind them that you would love to
hear from them just as much. God Bless and Semper Fidelis.
Your continued support and sacrifice on our behalf is greatly appreciated.
Richard
F. Natonski, Commanding General
Task
Force Tarawa
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Lance
Corporal Sean Allen Puna Raymond
