'Stand Behind Us'

Army Sgt. Christopher M. Pusateri
July 3, 2003

Hey Mom,

How is everyone doing? I just finished another Book and I am waiting for the next one in the Trilogy. The Person is only 60 pages into the one I want. Well I have bad news last night a close friends life was taken. There was a explosive device on the side of the road.

When they drove past it, it blew up and a fragment hit him in the back of the head were his helmet didn't cover. it bothers me to think that at any moment that very same thing could happen to me or another close friend. Everyone is upset about the matter as they should be. I do my best to stay strong so That I can help those more affected by this all. The person was from my company but in a different platoon.
I comfort those who need it. I miss you all very much. I am going to try and call you once a week and let you know how I am doing. And if I need anything. I most likely will need Razors (Mach 3) and Shaving cream. But I wrote to Christine to send that to me. It is her responsibility to make sure I have that stuff. I don't mind being here it is just that mail is slow, no time to myself, and phones. Well lack of freedom. I used to complaine a lot out here. But I haven't been complaining as much even though ever one wants to rip my head off for asking a simple question so I know what is going on around me. The[y] yell or get nasty and tell me to not complaine. it gets on the nerves. The only reason I am keeping calm is because I have been reading and listening to music. I got to go out to guard. I'll get back to you [...]

Love your son,
Christopher M Pusateri

Pusateri, 21, of Corning, N.Y., was killed by small-arms fire in Mosul on Feb. 16, 2005.

Marine Capt. Todd M. Siebert
Feb. 11, 2007 (e-mail to father)

Hi,
Yes I got it.  I am fine.   I don't get off the base camp much.  My CO keeps me here planning the next mission.  The Marines of the battalion are doing well here.  It is a shame that we lost one.   This is the most screwed up place I have been to...  I'll tell you some stories of some real characters when I get home.  Anyway, back to work.   Enjoy your vacation.
Love
Todd