To: jjkirk who wrote (82326 ) 10/31/2004 11:13:09 PM From: unclewest Read Replies (3) | Respond to of 793834 jj, I went to a church here today to meet a young SP/4 named Stryker Ziegler. Stryker is an Engineer Specialist home on 15 days leave from Iraq. He told me his platoon has spent 10 months on the line doing Infantry patrols. We discussed the secondary role of Engineers is to fight like Infantry. He was quite familiar with the concept. A friend of mine (Delta Vet) introduced him and announced Stryker was recommended for a Bronze Star "V" a few weeks ago by his squad leader and company commander for heroism during a firefight. I got almost 15 minutes alone with him before the service. He is with the 1st Cav working between Baghdad, Sadr City and Falluja. His Engineer unit is performing 100% Infantry tasks. I told him I had the same MOS, 12B, he has for six years as an A Team Demolition and Explosives expert. We chatted about the training. He goes back for two more months on Thursday. I asked him what he needs. He smiled and said nothing, thank you. I then asked him what his platoon needs. Again he said nothing...then added, "We really get everything we need." I asked him if liked the men he serves with...He beamed as he said, "Oh Yes. They are great, and I like our leaders too." During his introduction, the entire church gave him 2 standing ovations. I prayed that Americans understand the importance of supporting the troops with our votes. On the way out I slipped him a C-note. Told him to enjoy his last few days at home. He tried to hand it back and I asked him to wait 10-20 years and pass it on. He smiled and said, "Yes sir." Then we shook hands. Later I thought about his service and changed my mind about the CIB award. This kid may not have an infantry MOS but he sure as hell deserves a CIB. I'd give him mine. uw