One of the things my service in Iraq did give me was this freedom from fear of failure or any kind of expectations that I had to take a standard path.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I wanted to fight in the Iraq war because I felt like I had an obligation as a human being to help free people from oppression.
To be able to live and train in Iraq under these circumstances you need to be brave.
Our safety at home and the cause of freedom abroad is largely contingent upon our success in Iraq.
I was determined to achieve the total freedom that our history lessons taught us we were entitled to, no matter what the sacrifice.
Needless to say, it was the greatest of privileges to serve with the selfless men and women - Iraqi and American and those of our coalition partners, civilian as well as military - who did the hard, dangerous work of the surge. There seldom was an easy period; each day was tough.
I've learned that fear limits you and your vision. It serves as blinders to what may be just a few steps down the road for you. The journey is valuable, but believing in your talents, your abilities, and your self-worth can empower you to walk down an even brighter path. Transforming fear into freedom - how great is that?
My hope for this country is that we remain a people who value freedom, who have the courage to face the realities with faithful hearts instead of anxious ones.
One of the rewards of success is freedom, the ability to do whatever you like.
We know there is no such thing as freedom without the risk of failure.
There's nothing like being a soldier for confidence or learning your limits or enduring utter humiliation.