Happy New Year! The men of Baker Company celebrated the New Year in quiet fashion, by opening the numerous care packages still coming in from home. We look forward to a bright and refreshing year as we prepare for the New Iraqi Government elections as they make another step forward towards a democratic state. The light is slightly showing at the end of the tunnel, with hope of finally coming home in mid-2005. Baker Company is not only excited of what lies ahead, but we also reflect on our accomplishments from the past. From Korea to Iraq, many events have occurred to bring us to this point, some sad and happy moments. Nonetheless, we have stuck together like a Band of Brothers through good and bad times.

We continue to conduct missions day in and day out, trying to keep the insurgents from threatening Coalition Forces and hindering the progress of the Iraqi people. The great amount of letters and packages sent by families and supporters has greatly increased the morale of the men of Baker Company. Through these rough times, there is no better feeling than knowing that America supports our troops.

Baker Company continues to send men home on leave every month. This is another way for our men to rest and relax with their loved ones, as we continue on to complete this deployment. We're anxiously waiting to get to our new home Ft Carson, Colorado. We are fortunate to redeploy to such a beautiful place with such a great variety of activities available. But we know "mission first" is the priority.

The men would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year! Soon we will all be home with our loved ones knowing we have played a small part in an historic event. This will be the year that Iraq makes great strides towards freedom with the help of the Soldiers of Baker Company. God Bless!

1LT Rommel P. Aquino
3rd Platoon Leader