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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:07:18 AM EDT
[#1]
The guy who wrote that blog My War:Fear and Loathing in Iraq knew he had been there too long when he realized he could understand Arabic spoken in movies.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:08:27 AM EDT
[#2]
I'd say it's good - as long as they stay at bay. Personally, I wouldn't count on their fear/respect/good sense to last. Why are you not with a buddy or, better yet, a team? |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:11:06 AM EDT
[#3]
That would be damn creepy hearing all that.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:11:06 AM EDT
[#4]
It only takes one of those fuckers to sell you out.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:13:45 AM EDT
[#5]
It would be cool if you could form your own renegade army like the Col. Kurz character in Apocalypse Now.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:15:36 AM EDT
[#6]
I think it's great. I see the PERSEC problem, but I love the fact that they're scared enough of you that they know your name. That's fucking Biblical, man!
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:15:37 AM EDT
[#7]
We are "troop to task" tight. Everyone is on a rotating shift or doing PSD runs with convoys or hauling captured ammunition. It is next to impossible to get a team together just to check the perimeter. I do use the Base Reaction Force on occassion if I think the threat is high but I can usually responds in meer minutes to something on the perimeter.
I spend most of my day with one local contractor or another as they are building our improved defenses. It looks like I've established enough rapport with the locals to keep the wolves at bay. One contractor said I was a Christian with the heart of a Muslim. Not sure what that means. They haven't left me completely alone. I have been hit with rocks 8 times in 7 months so far and once with a sling shot. It hit my SAPI plate and ricocheted into a truck behind me. And Oh yeah they got fired on that day. Scattered like cochroches with the lights turned on. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:16:39 AM EDT
[#8]
Iagree with this one While flattering to hear you've got some respect and all, It only takes one dipshit with an AK to knock a guy off the hill................. and may be too tempting for that one loser. Plus- your longevity is way more important than being popular with the 'majority' of the locals Watch your six! |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:16:48 AM EDT
[#9]
You have been there too long
Take care and stay safe |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:16:59 AM EDT
[#10]
Hell yeah. Thats what I would do. 
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:17:13 AM EDT
[#11]
+ 1... I would make a grenade necklas for all to see, incase anyone had any ideas about being stupid. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:19:48 AM EDT
[#12]
I'd guess it can only be a compliment, if the guy is himself a Muslim. Stay safe, man. And thanks for your service. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:20:14 AM EDT
[#13]
That guy Sun-tzu was right!!
Be safe. Semper Fi |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:22:50 AM EDT
[#14]
TANGOCHASER: That's kinda disturbing that they seem to know you so well, but I guess it's natural for them to eventually find out who you are after being seen doing perimeter checks ALONE so many times. I hope that you have some LEVEL IV armor, because it seems that you are pretty much out in the open. Take care and watch your six.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:23:03 AM EDT
[#15]
I can tell you this, I do not turn my back when I'm on the perimeter now and I asked the operations shop to give me dedicated escorts for the local contractors when we work near the perimeter.
It was spooky hearing all this. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:27:10 AM EDT
[#16]
I think I'd be just as much wierded out as I would be proud of it. And as far as the celebrity thing, When people see you and recognise you and start chanting yer name, if that ain't celebrity(even on a small level) than I don't know what is. As to the a Christian with the heart of a Muslim, I'd venture to guess it was ment in a positive way and as a complement. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:33:40 AM EDT
[#17]
Sounds like you're showing who's boss on the block. Don't take shit from nobody!
 I'd say this is a good thing. If the population in the immediate area respects you, then maybe one day they could very well help you when your ass is on the line. I appreciate what you are doing over there. Stay the course, and come home! 
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:51:00 AM EDT
[#18]
TANGOCHASER: GOOD!
Well, just make darn sure those locals keep that perception about you strong. You've won half the battle right there, and those guys won't f'ck with you. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:58:06 AM EDT
[#19]
Good or bad?
Both, I'd say. It's good that you're respected by the local populace. It's bad that you are a known figure who can be singled out of a group. It's good that they respect you as that will tend to keep the minor terror players away from you. It's bad that they respect you as a major terror player may target you just to make a point. It's good to be aggressive as you define a greater part of scenario. Keep an eye out. Watch your back. Don't ever believe that you're bulletproof. Godspeed. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:58:41 AM EDT
[#20]
I'm looking at this as "is it better or worse" that a good number of locals have taken a liking to you.
A resounding GOOD! Hell, what if they didn't like you? - BG Stay safe!!! |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 12:06:14 PM EDT
[#21]
Bad. How much is information and loyalty going for these days? Stay safe, man. (Didn't read all posts) |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 12:11:46 PM EDT
[#22]
That sounds like an improvement, at least. Stay safe and make it home. When you do, IM me and we'll arrange for some free beer for you. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 12:12:47 PM EDT
[#23]
No opinions here, I don't know enough about your situation to have one.
Just keep your head down and come home safe. There are millions of people you've never met that pray for you every day. And while you're over there, be careful who you trust. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 12:38:35 PM EDT
[#24]
Sounds like you have built a reputation with the Iraqi contractors as a honest no-crap guy that treats them with suitable respect. Therefore you are doing the exactly the right thing.
However, given the number of psychos and nutcases that Saddam let loose, watch your back... |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 12:51:23 PM EDT
[#25]
Don't let it go to your head, or it could cause you some bad trouble it the future. Better be more allert, if that is possible.
Every once and awhile, run the perimeter bare back.   Now that would scare the shit out of them.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 1:05:11 PM EDT
[#26]
Dont get too comfortable over there, that's when bad shit happens
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Posted: 9/5/2004 2:39:07 PM EDT
[#27]
bad shit is gonna happen when its gonna happen, when your by yourself as opposed to with a squad of soldiers it makes them less guarded and more willing to talk to/trust you. just watch your back, and be safe.
*that which doesn't kill me only prolongs the inevitable |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 2:48:29 PM EDT
[#28]
Maybe he thinks you have some Muslim guy's heart in a jar in your office?
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Posted: 9/5/2004 2:51:51 PM EDT
[#29]
Sounds OK as long as you don't start trusting them.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 2:54:17 PM EDT
[#30]
Remember how; in the old days, the badest gunslinger in town always had to worry about some punk trying to make a name for himself? That gunslinger is you bro.
Watch your ass and thank you for your service. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 3:04:52 PM EDT
[#31]
And make sure you wave your talliwacker at 'em too!
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Posted: 9/5/2004 3:14:39 PM EDT
[#32]
Brother, that's BAAAAD! I wonder who am I to be giving you operational advice since you are on the ground and I am in my office, but where's your f* in battle buddy? Never do jack alone unless you want to die alone. They have been talking about you. They know your name because you are in their plans. They are picking a guy who will fit in your BDUs. They are studying how to operate your gator. They are calculating how much explosive it can carry/tow. You know you can't ever trust those pukes. I understand the winnign hearts and minds bullshit, but take care of yourself! And remember, that saying" the bigger they are the harder they fall " translates into EVERY language, including Arabic! Best way for one of them sumbitches to make a name for HIMSELF is to bring your head home one day. EDITED TO ADD: IF THEY GET AN IED INSIDE YOUR FENCE USING YOUR GATOR, AND YOUR UNIFORM, BECAUSE YOU WERE STUPID....YOUR BUDDIES WILL DIE AND GUESS WHO'S FAULT THAT WILL BE? THINK ABOUT IT. Pride goeth before destruction.... |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 4:29:43 PM EDT
[#33]
Change your habits immediately. You are getting a rep, word will get out to the ones who have to show they are better than you, they have all the time in the world to do it, no rotation system for them, and they will attempt to blow your ass away. Once you have set a pattern they can read you are a target. When you check the security outside the gate do you always run left or right? Do you make the same stops or slow down in the same areas? Do you dismount in the same places? Does your time very or is it about the same each trip? Bet your ass they are watching. And its not good.
rk |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 4:42:39 PM EDT
[#34]
What ever you do, please don't get complacent. Someone will eventually get a wild hair up their ass and try to get stupid.
It will be hard to stay 100% alert all the time. But it's your ass on the line. It may be a sign of respect by them to know you, but it can lead to problems. Stay alert, stay alive. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 6:27:37 PM EDT
[#35]
Next time someone tells you you have the heart of a Muslim tell him "if only there were a woman who could tame my ferocious heart." He might have an attractive niece.
GunLvr |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:13:22 PM EDT
[#36]
No, instead tell him you have the ears of some muslims....on a string in your room... |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:16:02 PM EDT
[#37]
Dude I thought you were haveing thought's of rapeing a camel or some other animal over there
, glad you are okay and doing good.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:21:27 PM EDT
[#38]
I have never been in your positioin but here is my advice.
I think it is good the locals respect and fear you. I would as mentioned previously mix up my routine. Be sure to NOT GET COMPLACENT. Keep the locals in check, rule with an iron fist. They respect "Strong and Powerful" leaders, exude strengthand the willingness to use overwealming force to stop any intruders. God bless you for your service. I hope that helps, I would ask some buddies who have been in country longer what they think. Ultimatly us Keyboard Commandos don't give very good advice. 
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:22:37 PM EDT
[#39]
Keep up the good work and stay alert.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:50:31 PM EDT
[#40]
I looked it up; Christian with the heart of a muslim means you believe in Jesus but have this strange predilection for camel humping, frequently feel like attacking innocent women and children and think cutting the head off a bound hostage truck driver proves your political point. Oh and you think most goats are preferable to your burka clad women. Serious, that's what it said. Be careful over there buddy, 999 of them might love you but all it takes is one asshole with a lucky shot to send you home in a box. You're doing great work and I and my family appreciate your service and will sleep soundly tonight, knowing you and your comrades are there to visit harm on the assholes there that would do us harm. Watch your six Tangochaser, I owe you a drink if you're ever in Utah. CrashBurnRepeat [email protected] |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 7:51:54 PM EDT
[#41]
I work with the same locals everyday but I don/t trust any of them. It's difficult to not set patterns when you have to fill Hesco barriers on the perimeter and it takes you a week to fill them. I go to the perimeter everyday in the same area until that project is complete.
There is one area near the fence that I say hello with my front sight post to eryone I meet. I treat them like I would anyone in the US. Most are just trying to make a living. Most still live in mud huts. I've already learned how to separate the good workers from the scammers/lazy ones. I figured the contractors might talk amongst themselves about me but never figured my name would end up all over town. There are 2 people on this FOB without a dedicated battle buddy. The Brigade Force Protection guy and myself. I assume it's because of our rank, experience and duties. We don't have another soldier who can ride around with me all day just to be my battle buddy. I now take armed escorts with me when I am working with the local contractors near the perimeter. The more likely threat is an attack on the contractors that are working for us, than an attack on us. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 8:42:44 PM EDT
[#42]
Think of it this way, they know you well enough for a snatch a grab. Think of the local propaganda they could create with beheading you.
Please, please change what you are doing! As always watch your six and my prayers are with you. Thank you very much for your service. ilike9s |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 8:55:57 PM EDT
[#43]
generally speaking Iraqis are friendly and mean you no harm, they just want to do their thing and let you do yours. Even the nicest ones are not trustworthy though, its too easy fo someone to threaten their family if they don't give them info about the americans.
Kurds are a different culture entirely, I can easily picture an unarmed kurd charging a dozen or so armed thugs. They won't be coercing a kurd to do a damn thing. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 8:58:02 PM EDT
[#44]
bad thing.
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Posted: 9/5/2004 9:32:34 PM EDT
[#45]
Christian with the heart of a Muslim-a great compliment indeed. Probably a Sunni told you that. As you know, a real Moslem believes, as told in the Koran, that the Christians, Jews, and Muslims are all children of Abraham, Isaac, and Joseph. Problem is, the Muslims think we're pussies. He told you he respected you, that you were different but the same.
Got some friends in the Green Zone. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 9:51:21 PM EDT
[#46]
Pretty chilling....
What happens when one of your adoring fans decides he wants to be known as the fucker who knocked Mr. Putnam off the barrier? Not sure what you can do about it but it might be time to get rotated somewhere else. Good luck, and thank you for your service. Arc |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 10:49:44 PM EDT
[#47]
Man, That would give me the willies knowing that- shit, i'll come over there just so you DO have someone to watch your back... that's shit that you don't get someone...
it's cool and all that they "Fear" you but remember- they don't "fear" anything except not getting their 70 whatever skanks.... -Roth |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 10:57:10 PM EDT
[#48]
Baaaaad thing.
Find a different job. |
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Posted: 9/5/2004 11:08:52 PM EDT
[#49]
Just watch your ass. I am glad to hear you are taking some extra precautions.
Having them respect you is good to a point. If and when the wrong person hears about their respect, it is time to take away the false idol (you). In my book, you are a worthy idol. Thank you for all you do! Know we are thinking of you. Be careful sir. |
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Posted: 9/6/2004 3:48:31 AM EDT
[#50]
If they think you are some sort of superman bad-a$$ warrior to be out there by yourself, let them think it. But were I you, I would sure as heck pack a lot more firepower than an M4. Maybe a couple of M2's, one on the front and one on the back of the ATV.... |
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