...Today I am in a classroom learning about TACTICAL URBAN COMBAT and NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL, AND CHEMICAL WARFARE, in the middle of the Pacific ocean, on my way to experience 1st hand what I am learning about. I am not afraid of dying. I am more afraid of what will happen to all the ones that I love if something happens to me. Soon enough i will be in the desert, outside the city of Bagdad, in full Combat gear, ready to carry out my mission, Wondering how this all happened so fast, Wishing I was back home going to school, dating Sheila, taking care of my family. Although I think this way now I am almost certain that if I didn't walk this path I would be wondering to myself "Why didn't I walk the path of a proud warrior, a Marine?" ...

...What's Up Brian, I feel so lucky to be blessed with the chance to defend my country 6 months after I joined the military. Some marines have been in for over 20 years and still haven't seen combat. I'm also lucky to have such a wonderful family. I know how much you love me and support me and that keeps me going along with a few other things. Is Jeanette babysitting for mom?

I love You Brother Your Big Brother-Private First Class Arredondo-USMC