I am alive and well in Baghdad-ifish special topic

[diamondfish]

On 07 April 2004, the 2/162 Infantry Batallion from Oregon's 41st Brigade rolled into Baghdad.

Greetings to all,

I have arrived in Baghdad, unharmed and without a shot fired. It was not quiet what I had expected, there is alot of trash everywhere and vehicular traffic is insane. We are at the Complex of Champions, the Iraqi Olympic Complex, where they hoped to once host the summer games. Now it has been converted to a forward operating base.

We hear automatic weapons fire throughout the day, mainly from a distance. We also hear mortars fire and hit, sometimes close by. There are also improvised explosive devises heard exploding periodically. There have been demonstrations outside of our compound since we have arrived.

The trip here was enough to test ones faith and nerve. After seeing all of the fighting and combat on the news, the rumors of IED's and RPG's, I was on edge. Our convoy was stopped several times by traffic in Baghdad, and that was the worst. I just sat there looking and watching, praying that nothing would go wrong.

Before we left Navistar, at the boarder, I prayed that our trip would be without incident. I wrote some bible verses inside of the HUUMWV so they would give me some relief. I put my life and the lives of my fellow soldiers in Gods hands. I asked God to protect us, with his shield and armor, and to give us courage and strength for this mission. When we arrived at FOB Provider, I gave thanks to the Lord that we were here and safe.

Now, before the members of my squad leave for a mission, I lead them in prayer and ask for Gods hand to guide them and protect them. As I was sitting in my lawn chair, outside last night, I was reading each account of the crusifiction and resurection as the sun was setting the night before easter. I looked up and saw a single star above and no others, I wondered if it was possible that Jesus saw the very same star as I.

I hope that the people of Iraq realize why we are here. I hope they are not so blinded by their own political agendas to see the freedom that they have now. For the first time there are no curfews, people are free to move about the country as they choose, and for the first time they are a truly free people.

As for the media, what can I say, they only show the worst of what is here. It is not as bad as the media depicts. Bad news, bombings, and ambush attacks, get ratings, not soldiers helping families and children. I feel that the worst part of our mission is behind us, the trip here. When 300 vehicles are in a convoy, it is like a barrel of fish. We survived the trip here and soon we will start running daily missions into the city, I will continue to pray for our safety, but most of all peace in Iraq.

I hope that each and everyone of you is safe and in good health. I would ask that you continue to pray for the soldiers here, as we continue to bring freedom to reality. I hope that we can continue to corresponde through e-mail, I look forward to hearing form the homefront. Have a wonderful day and God bless you.



Shawn M Buller
officerbuller@yahoo.com

[Pete]

Wow. Thanks for thinking of us and sharing your experience. I hope your mission continues to go well and you find moments to relax. Sounds like you're already focused on the good work you're doing. I hope you will be able to stay focused on that. Thank you for your service, stay well. There's an open seat for you in my boat whenever you want it.

[Hoosier Daddy]

Ditto. Thanks for going and stay safe.....!!

[Jennie@ifish]

I am honoring this post, today, and would like to see it remain on the ifish community.
Usually these posts go to Life in General, but please read this, and remember as you are out fishing and having a wonderful time, there are those that are fighting for your freedom.
I see this as an excellent reminder to be thankful for our freedom in these United States.
Thank you for taking time to remember us, and our prayers are with you! You can bet that next time I land a springer, I will not only thank the fish Gods, but a prayer will be sent your way! Thank you from all of ifish! We are forever in your debt! :smile:
Jen

[Wishing to Fish]

Thanks so much for including us. I support you and your family and will pray for your safety and success.

Come home safe, and come home soon.

[THE HAPPY HOOKER]

Good morning, Diamondfish let be one to relay my pride and honor i have in this country because of Men like you and your fellow 41st Brigade. I can't imagine what it must be like. It's because of men and women like you and your Brigade and all others in our military that we can live with the FREEDOM you provide for us. Kind of makes fishing trivial when we stop to think what your doing for us and our fellow AMERICANS. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your fellow men/women and your families. Like Pete said, there will always be a seat open on my boat for you, your family, or your fellow 41st Brigade members. Give em HELL OFFICER BULLER we are behind you 1000%. Bottom line thanks for the FREEDOM you provide us. UNITED STATES FOREVER!!!!!!!

[diamondfish]

I wish I could pursuade my unit to allow me to sew the Ifish patch on my uniform. I would too....mabe I can get away with it for a while...at least for a pic or two. I think that would be so cool to have an Ifish patch on my uniform with a pic sent to ifish. Hummmm.

[letsfish]

It is good to see your posts, we all look forward to seeing you back here fishing and posting about that leisure. But you have been called to serve elsewhere for now and we will keep you in our prayers as well as the people of Iraq.Stay Safe

[StinkyFish]

I just dont know how to say thank you for the freedom you provide us. The words dont seem like enough. If there is anything I could do to help you, your fellow soldiers, or any anybodys family while you are serving our country I would be honord to help and if i cant, do to logistics or capabilities I know there are I fishers out there that would jump at the chance. God Bless, Take care and be safe.

[Mr.Kitch'nPass]

God bless you for your service.
We pray for your safe return

[k9jeff]

can you post a address and maybe some of us can send you care packages. Foodstuff and the like. I have several killer cigars which I would be willing to part with.

Thanks for doing you job over there, we do appreciate what you do and realize the importance of your misson.

Stay safe!
K9

[Killertraylor]

I will be praying for you. Thanks for taking time to remember us back home. May God comfort you, protect you and bring you peace in your new surroundings.

Joe

[Jennie@ifish]

Yes! Post your address! We'd love to adopt you! I have an ifish care package for you, just waiting to be sent, and please let us know what else might be common for us, and a luxury for you, over there.
We'll have it shipped in no time! :smile:
Do you like chocolate cake? :smile:

Jen

[Troutbear]

God bless you and all of our soldiers.

[Boedy]

Former member of 2-162 still have some buds in there including your CSM Conley. Get us a address and I will put something together for you guys. Just let us know what you guys need or Want and we will take care of it.

[Wreckless]

YES, I'd be in for some "care package" donations.

Hey Diamondfish, I second the "open seat" offer....get back here and look me up....

Thank you for ALL you guys (& gals) are doing!

Dennis

[starcrafttom]

its good to hear from some one in the front lines. I hope you keep us informed on whats really happening there. the news agencies are a little one sided in the greater seatlle area. be sure to keep your head down and your eyes opened. and yes you can ride in any of my boats. when in doubt "fire" Tom Elliott U.S.M.C

[Jennie@ifish]

Hey! We could have a flotilla for all of the guys in his unit! :smile: FUN! When they get home? Wouldn't that be great?
Jen

[CorkyCatcher]

Yesterday was uneventful, I had the luxury of sitting in my back yard in the sun talking to my wife and oldest son for a couple hours. What a simple pleasure that is so often overlooked until you can't do it.
Why do I have this luxury? Because of people like you that have sacrificed and will continue to do so.
Thank you and God Bless.

[wetonwhite]

DFish thanks for thinking of us, I am sure that we will all think of you every day. you are the tip of the spear, stay sharp and safe we need you all to come home in one piece. thank you and everyone else thats so far from home, for what you do to keep us all free and safe. hurry home when your jobs done and know that we do keep you in our thoughts

[Thumper]

Do you like chocolate cake? :smile:
Jen

I am even OK with Jennie offering chocolate cake to a serviceman like yourself. We appreciate so much what you are doing for us.

But don't get too used to the chocolate cake.

[BottomFeeder]

Shawn,


My buddy John Horn is in 2-162 with you, could you please tell him that "LoverBoy from Scappoose" says hello. We went fishing on the MC just before he left. It was awesome.



-Bottomfeeder

[TillamookChinook]

Good Luck and Keep Your Head Down!

TC

[Acuta]

Godspeed to you and your fellows. Remember, stay alert, stay alive!!. Be careful over there!!

[RodRoss]

Diamondfish,

Your post greatly touched me. It has been printed out and will be on our refrigerator at home. If you get us an address, our family would love to put together a package for you all. Fishing teaches all of us some great life lessons, but what you are doing for our country makes it pale in comparison and allows it to be possible in the first place. We will, and do, pray for all of your health and safety and can't thank you enough for your service.

RodRoss

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it." Isaiah 30:21

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumbe and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31

[David Johnson]

My prayers are with you brother. Thank you and keep up the good work.

God bless you and keep you all safe.

Rick and Family

[Elwix]

Good luck and best wishes!

[175]

May your spirit live on in everyone and everything.
Thank you for your service.

[Flatfish]

Thank you!

Godspeed.

Mark and the dog.

[Time Off]

Well said, you are a great service to our great country.

[diamondfish]

WOW!!!

What can I say, I have a lump in my throat from all of the response. You are all incredible, like I have always said, Ifish.net is the best fishing forum on the entire net, bar none. There are numerous web forums on fishing, but there is not a single one out there that could make me feel like this one does. Thank you all so much, from the bottom of my heart. It is people like you that make it so much easier for us to be here, away from family and friends (fishing too).

Please continue to send e-mails, no matter how small they are all greatly appreciated. My new address over here is:

Spc Shawn M Buller
1st Cavalry Division
39th SIB
Attn. C/Co 2/162 Inf
Camp Cook, Iraq
APO AE 09313

I cannot express myself in a manor that would do justice to the way that the posts and e-mails that I have received, make me feel. Thank you all again.

Shawn M Buller
officerbuller@yahoo.com

[Fisherman]

I have a question for you D-fish do you know a 1SG Mcnatt he is my brother in law and if I remember correctly is in the same unit.

[diamondfish]

Fish,

1st Sgt Shannon McNatt is my 1st Sgt, and boy howdy would I like to get ahold of a story on him. He is great, not only as a leader but as a person too. He really takes care of us. I sure would, however like to get my hands on a funny story about 1st Sgt McNatt, don't worry I am in top physical condition and am capible of doing Pt for extensive periods of time should he choose to get even with me.

[Bill Monroe]

Shaun,
Did you get my email? Wishing you well and tight lines right along with all the others, too...
Bill

[Reelentless]

Shawn- I just wanted to thank you for your courage to fight for our country and help those who cannot help themselves. I wish you all the best. You truly are a hero.

[fishnbus]

Diamondfish - Thank you for the post from Iraq and for your service to our great country. I once was an 11B in a warzone and know the power and comfort of faith. Your mention of the good news from Iraq isn't the first I've seen. I have friends currently serving and they also share the news that the media won't cover. Just reading your post moistened the eyes in a moment of deepest appreciation for what you and your unit are doing. Hoo-ah!! Dennis

[dampainter]

shawn,
I hope all is well?? hurry home. god bless you all.....don`t think about the fishing here....it sucks....what fish?....stay safe! may this one be with you and help watch over you.

[Private-Aye-Fish]

Shawn,

May God watch over you and the rest of the service men and women who are proudly serving our country.

[puffins crew]

Thank you for your service, Shawn. I will say a special prayer the 41st.

Peace, Tom

[Spoiled Daddy]

I just want to wish you and all the fellow service men and women a quick end to their need for service and safety in caring out their mission!

SD

[OK Deal Let\'s Fish]

May God be with you.

We all appreciate what you guys are doing over there for us.

Stay safe.

[Airborne]

SPC Buller, Your a true professional keep the faith and share it with all. And remember no matter what anyone may tell you "there are no athyist in combat". I know first hand what is happening in your AO and continue to Battle Track your units work, as I am one of the Asst.Operations Sergeants for the 41st BDE, although I volunteered to go with you, the BDE said "don't worry your going only not there" so if I don't see you there I will see on the next rotation. Sorry to here of the trouble that has hit already. If you need anything that I can help with let me know. If you see MSG Elfering or SFC Woods tell them SSG Howard sends his best

[ssteelheadsteve]

Keep your head down and your bolt JAMMED FORWARD.HARD.
I was in Co. B 162nd. Contact me for a free Fishing Trip when you get Home. God Bless.
www.stevesmithoutdoors.com

[SalmonSeason]

Hey Shawn (BB) The wife and I say "HI" and since your last fishin trip with me before you left.. The springers have shown up even more...

I missed your phone calls and it ticked me off...but as you know I was sleepin...I hope you stay safe and come back in time for another round of catchin

You got me choked up since I have never heard this side of you...You make me PROUD

[Jennie@ifish]

OK, I just sent out an ifish gift pack! :smile:
However, I received a note from Diamondfish, concerning his new bride. She is having a tough time of it.
I am suggesting that ifish take on a project to show her that someone cares.
Diamondfish suggested putting her phone number here, but I will not allow that. Too much chance of someone getting it, with ill intent. I'm not willing to risk that.
However, I am trying to find out where she lives. Once that is figured out, I bet that we could find a trustable ifisher (Think?) :smile: that could handle donations of things like dinner out gift certificates, meals cooked, or simply letters of support, from our ifish family.
I will post her email, if you all think that is safe.
They were just married before he left, so they have not had much time together, and she seems to be having a hard time of it.
Can we help?
Jen

[Baskett-o-fish]

JEN, If you can somehow get in touch with Diamondfish's wife and ask if its ok to post the email address I bet she would be accepting. Its great to see so many Ifish members taking care of one of their own. Count me in to send what I can. I am drumming up support from people at work and they were all touched by all the support everyone is showing. Keep it up everyone.

[Jennie@ifish]

I like to help people for more reasons than one, and often, it is quite selfish of me, really.
My Mother always taught me, and was a good example of this. She'd say, "If you are having a tough time of it, or a bad day, go do something for someone else. Their happiness will go a long ways to making you feel better."
She would always suggest I go play the piano for the folks at nursing homes, and when I did, I always felt SO much better!
So, try it! You'll like it! I think this is an exciting project, and I can't wait to feel really, really good!

Jen

[Kentucky Hog Hunter]

Shawn,

God Bless you and the rest of our troops who afford us the life we have...

Be safe and when you get home...please get in touch so I can take you fishing...

Terry Luckett...aka: "The Kentucky Hog Hunter"

[Sore Back]

Be careful Shawn and come back home to us safe. We pray for the safety of all of you guys and gals all the time.

Sore Back

[Fisherman]

Well D-fish I would love to help out a fellow Spec. as I was one once too, and a good story on you 1st could be good for some fun times but I have only been a member of the family for about 4 years I will have to do a recon with the other family members. He is great guy I have never meet more of a man than him he will always do right by his boys,family, and friends. he is as you all are over their for our Country, HERO'S!! it reminds me of a song by the great Merle Haggard "when your running down our country, your walking on the fighting side of me"
you boy keep your chins up watch your 6's and come home when it's all over

[Wishing to Fish]

Hey D-Fish, I am putting together a fishing gear care package for you and some more of your team in Iraq. I have 2 to 3 manufactures online at this time with more to come. My club as joined with me to produce the gear, from rods and reals to the terminal tackle and lures that you can use to catch some of those big ole Iraq BASS...

Let me know how many "fishers" we need to take care of.

If any other Ifishers want to join the ranks and help produce some gear, let me know. If you like to make jigs, spinners, or even pour some soft baits. We will even take cash donations that we will then turn into gear.

The bigger the package to send over there, the better. I am betting it will be a truck load.

Shawn, we support you.

Darryl

[Jennie@ifish]

I am still waiting to hear back about his wife and where she lives. Will keep you updated.
I want to do this project!

Jen

[jokester]

D-fish,

Just a note to thank you and all the men you serve with for what you do! It's because of selfless acts such as these, that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today! May God richly bless you and your family, and give you a safe and speedy return home!!

-Aaron Wells (aka) jokester

[B-run]

Tell your Sgt. McNatt his lil bro, the forcaster says howdy.
Will be sending you boys some elk pepperoni & jerky with some STS mags soon.
Take care of yourselves.
If you want a funny story on Mcnatt, ask him about the time we were duckhunting and he made me jump out of the boat.
I will think back to our college days together and e-mail you some dirt.

Gregg

[bribri76]

Thanks for fighting for our freedom. Stay safe fight hard. We will all pray for all of you over there.

[SLEDDER]

Take care of yourself bud! Come back to us in one piece without any extra holes. When you do get home, have patience with yourself and those around you, it is a mental adjustment that takes time. God be with you and thanks for your service!!

[SalmonSeason]

Jennie,
His wife lives in Amity/McMinnville
If you want to do the "project" let me know
he is a close friend and I know he and she would appreciate it...

He told me before he left///after catching a springer in my boat =) he said, "I'm going down to Texas and I'll be back soon." Riiiight next thing we hear is ...."I'm in Kuwait"

He's gonna be ticked knowing how many springers he's missing


TAKE CARE SHAWN Hang in there Put one on your tag for me

[diamondfish]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
All of you are great, I cannot convey my appreciation enough.

You and the others that are overseas fighting for us are the ones to thank

Be careful and come home safe.