New Year's Greetings from Camp Habbaniyah, Iraq! I send a heartfelt "thank-you" to the families and friends of the Currahees for your overwhelming demonstration of love and support during the holiday season. Packages and gifts flowed in abundance, spreading Christmas cheer to every soldier deployed away from home answering our nation's call. Even across the miles, every Currahee was able to experience a little touch of home because of your generosity and thoughtfulness. Your labor of love is greatly appreciated and enhances the morale and quality of life of every member of Task Force 1-506th.

2005 is upon us, and we are already half-way through the month of January. Our mission continues as we prepare for the upcoming Iraqi National Elections. Everyday, we are one step closer to realizing the endstate of our mission. The birth of democracy is never without turbulence and resistance. We have experienced both. However, in spite of these realities, our hearts are fixed and we are resolved to stay true to the task at hand. It only takes a short walk down memory lane to remember the Colonists fight to establish democracy in America. The sacrifices of many paved the way for the liberties that we enjoy today. And so, we are honored to serve our nation again, assisting the country of Iraq in the process that will allow them to enjoy the liberties to which we have grown accustomed in the United States.

Your sacrifice on behalf of your loved ones has not gone unnoticed, and we thank you immensely from the depths of our hearts. We offer our prayers on your behalf for a prosperous New Year and continue to solicit your prayers and support. "Stands Alone!"

COL David L. Clark
Battalion Commander