The men of Baker Company 1-506th have come a long way and still have many miles to go. Many started the journey over a year ago at Camp Greaves, Korea and have jumped oceans to arrive at Camp Habbaniyah, Iraq. They have moved one country closer on their around the world tour before the much anticipated flight home to the wide-spread arms of loved ones.

The sacrifices of these men and their families should be told. Missed births of children, missed birthdays, missed anniversaries, and sheer numbers of days away are all stories in themselves. Just one example, SGT Daniel Shepard from Eastern South Dakota has seen his wife, Jamie, 56 days in the past three years. SGT Shepard has traveled from Iraq to Afghanistan to Korea and back to Iraq all in three years with the Army. And stories of such sacrifices abound among these great soldiers.

These men have done many outstanding things in the past three months since arriving in theater. They have raided terrorists' houses wanted for bomb making, murder, kidnapping and attacks on coalition forces. They patrol hostile streets on a daily basis with the hope to give peace to the local population. One Iraqi national thanked one of Baker Company's platoons for their presence during one of the many patrols and said, "Our streets just want to rest," referring to the violence. They have also passed out toys to children (see Baker Company 1st Platoon article). A great responsibility is placed on these soldiers and they are performing admirably. They are doing great things for our country and the country of Iraq.

Baker Company thanks all of our friends and families for your support and prayers. We could not do our mission here in Iraq without it. Thanks again and you are all in our thoughts and prayers. More updates and pictures to follow.