What do American soldiers and Marines say about about their service in Iraq?

Question

What was/is it like?

Answer 1

Let's get some idea by their actions:

Despite the rising death toll of U.S. troops in Iraq -- soldiers and Marines are signing up for another tour of duty, re-enlisting at rates that exceed the retention goals set by the Pentagon.

The Marines, which along with the Army have borne the brunt of combat in Iraq, said they already have fulfilled 90 percent of their retention goal for the fiscal year for getting Marines to re-up after their initial commitment. The Air Force and the Navy said they, too, are exceeding goals for getting airmen and sailors to re-enlist.

Answer 2

Im not in the military, but I have several friends that are who have been in both Iraq and Afghanistan. The ones that I talk to that have served in Iraq (who want to talk about their stories) really have different views on the entire war, as it depends a lot on what their job was/is or where in country they were/are at when they deployed. One of my friends hated every minute of it and didnt understand the reason for being there, but he did his job because that was what he had to do no questions asked. He just got back in January after 18 months near Baghdad, and he just thinks its getting worse rather than better, and yes he has changed mentally since getting home (he is having lots of anxiety and drinking issues right now). Another friend said he just sat there for the most part doing hardly anything but did see the improvements being made and said its worth the fight. I also had a good friend of mine killed in Al Anbar back in 2004 after he volunteered to go back for a 2nd tour...he WANTED to go back to finish what we started. He didnt have any objections, but he did recognize some things he thought the President lied about, although he supported the war. So...it really is a tough call. I think it all depends on the individual solider/marine/sailor/airmens experiences in the field though.

Answer 3

The troops or families of troops that I have spoken with have diverse opinions, pro and con, just like the political environment in this country right now. Some are for the war and some against even though they are fighting it and will as long as they're told to because that's what soldiers do regardless of personal feelings.

Answer 4

They don't.

The ones who have fought don't boast about it.

The ones who didn't are usually the ones with the "war stories".

What did my husband say about Iraq? It was hot, it smelled, Iraqi kids were always asking for a pen, and Iraqi food gave him the runs.

Answer 5

That they are really doing GREAT things over there. They feel it's neccessary for them to be there. The families left behind, the soldiers injured or killed may have different feelings...but they all signed up volunteerily...no one forced them. They are our heros! God Bless them ALL!!!!

My son serves in the USAF, VERY proudly too!!!!

Answer 6

Don't forget Air Force and Navy!! We are here too!!

Your question is a little vague... so here is a vague answer: it's a war zone. Most of us feel honored to be here serving our country.

If you would like a better answer, add some details to your question.

Answer 7

Sign up and go to Iraq, then you will know first hand.

Don't ask me again.

Answer 8

my dad's best friend doesn't talk about what he did in iraq .. he had to go in november of 2004 even though he was set to retire that february

Answer 9

My friend who served a year said it was the worst year of his life! All he does now is collect a GI bond and drink..it really screws people up..Same thing Vietnam did..pray for them!