Hi Anderson,
I know what you mean about the dedication of the Marines. One of my sons spent eight years in the Marine Corp and mustered out in 1988 and he is still a dedicated Marine.
Thanks for telling their story. I could not even handle their living conditions.
Take care
Judy Stage

Cooper,
I'd like to say thanks too for showing the real deal over there! Often times reporters do have an agenda and just make their reports lopsided to spin things their way. I'm glad that you are not one of those! Plus I like that even in the hardest places you can always give us a little laugh to break the ice....like the bathroom humor and Sanjay sleeping. Nothing wrong with that!

Keep up the great work Cooper! And PLEASE stay safe!!

Cindy..Ga.

Keeping all of you in my prayers out there – and you too Anderson.. Stay safe- .... Your Number 1 Fan

I can't believe that people claim that they are real Americans and are the first people in church and they don't care that fellow Americans don't have healthcare including some of their family members. How can they have God in their heart if they don't care about others. Love thy neighbor. I have health insurance and I believe everyone should have such a privilege.

I met Anderson when I was in Kabul 3 years ago and he is a very stand up guy, a true reporter who is willing to riskit all to tell the truth. By far the most honest and best reporter in all the media!!

I have always looked at the media as a biased opinionated entity that shows the worst in the military. but reading this article shows that there are some reporters that actually care about what they are doing and will tell the truth about what we are doing over there. thank you.

As the fiance to a 2nd Recon Marine who served many terms, first starting in Afghan, then Iraq where his career as a marine came to an end after being injured, I would like to thank you Mr Cooper for reporting honestly and honoring the men and women serving out there. I find myself still seeking out articles written about our marines, as I still feel linked. It became habit for me to seek out news, no matter what, praying I wouldn't read any bad news concerning my fiance's unit. One would think, why put yourself through that? But it was my reality. I needed to know he wasn't a part of a ambush gone wrong, or on the humvee that was hit by an IED. Little did I know, I was to receive that phone call late in 2007 saying that his humvee was it by an IED and he was injured severly. To this day he struggles with the healing process. PTSD is what our life revolves around. But he is a Marine, he is a survivor, he is my Hero, and stronger than any man I know.
Again Thank you for your honest reporting.

Semper Fidelis Anderson...

Outstanding. Can we get the press corps to emulate Anderson Cooper's example of representing our warriors and their selfless service? Once again, Anderson delivers a clear, concise piece that strikes home; while not all civilians "get it", they can begin to understand the compleixities these men face and yet despite their cultural and philosophical differences, they are Marines with a singular focus and mission. Unless you've been there, you cannot comprehend the deep loyalty, respect and admiratrion they have for one another. Semper Fi Anderson! Nice job.

I' ve deployed four times to the middle east (2003, 2004, 2006, and 200; all Kuwait/Iraq). Of those times, I've been in harms way in some shape or form. I can say that I'll be deploying again in 2010 to Afghanistan for my first time. Have been told this tour will last 12/13 months more then likey. I really have come to my senses as I asked to go those four times. I have this new edge that makes me wavy about what will come from this deployment. It could be that I found this woman who the most amazing person I come to know in my adulthood. It could be the fact that I am tired of going over there and seeing little progress to a country that is taking to long to rebuild. All in all....I wanted to be career, and now I just think that this will be it after 11 years of grinding and little reward. Always have someone saying thank you for what I've done when I done just my job. Suppose my pride is not fully evaporated yet! Just hope that this new administration can get us home and safe again!

My daughter is a US Marine preparing to be trained to head to Afganistan. Two nights ago her LT was killed in Afganistan. You were right in one area that distinguishes them is their devotion and dedication....Semper-Fi. They are always the first to fight. Lean and mean....... These are our proud Marines.... thank you for this article
A Marine Mom

One can't help but feel that these brave American marines are giving far too much for some of our American countrymen. Compare GOP legislator Mike Duval's unethical and repulsive self-serving indulgence while our fellow 'best and bravest' fight in the trenches risking all for his freedom and privilege. One can't help but feel despondent at the hypocracy of our overpaid legislators and politicians. Our own president never served his country and yet he sends the best the USA has to offer, illequipped and underpaid, while insisting that 'health care' for all is a 'right'.
Health care is not a right, someone must pay for it. Freedom is not a 'right' it is being paid for with the blood of our armed forces.

GOD BLESS THE MARINE CORPS

Nice article ... glad someone in the media appreciates our troops and writes about the things that matter.

As an former military wife, I know what they and their families go through.

Hats off to Anderson!!

Semper Fi Marines!

Please write more stories about the men and women in our armed forces. These stories about their tours of duty are very important.

As a 30 year AF veteran and having been deployed to Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, my thanks to you Mr. Cooper for keeping it real and honest about what these men and women are doing in Afghanistan. It isn't about politics–it's about doing what is right.

Thanks for the straight reporting. No matter what one thinks of this war or any other...and most are far too complex for most of us to really comprehend...there is no doubt that these soldiers–men and women–put their lives on the line for all of the rest of us, for each other, and for those they seek to protect and they are to be admired and respected for that with no equivocation.

Too bad it's all a big waste of time and has been for the better part of the last decade. Most people agree that our military does the best that it can with the objectives it has been presented. But spending billions of dollars to police a country who doesn't even want our assistance is a joke. We went there to oust the Taliban and eliminate Al Qaeda. The first objective has only been partially met, as the local politicians seem to be willing to negotiate with these thugs, as they did in Swat valley. The second objective has not been met.

At what point do we say enough is enough? People are crying because our economy is in shambles and we pay to much in taxes. Do they realize the ridiculous amount of money we are wasting on defense to help OTHER countries? Bring the troops home. They deserve better. They aren't cops.

Thank you for reporting the real stuff. My best friend is a Marine deployed to Afganistan right now...and I can tell you. There is nothing more that breaks his heart, than hearing that we don't support them. More people need to support them and try to understand. So thank you.

Thank you sir,

The greatest difference I have discovered about being a Marine and being a civilian is the lack of engagement. There is a palpable lack of willingness to set aside individual concerns and concentrate on a larger goal.

I am often told it is because we are brain washed. If brain washing leads to honor and committment....

Any way, thany you for pointing out that our Marines do not come from Mars, nor are they mindless automons doing the bidding of a corrupt people. They are of us, maybe the better part of us.

SF

Hi Anderson,

Thanks so much for your reporting on this. We appriciate you very much.
As a mother of 2 US soldiers my son and his wife are both getting ready to deploy. I will have my grandson for a year. Please keep reporting and please tell the Afgan people they deserve better than what they have had and we as Americans wish them only the best.

Please tell all of our troops how much we miss them and love them and support them. They are heros and the best of the best!

Blessings and peace to you all. Stay safe.
Teresa daughter of a vet. and mother of 2 soldiers.

Anderson,

I think it is important to see these men and women as individuals and not just as a group of "soldiers." We need to remember that they are sons and daughters, husbands and wives, and fathers and mothers. The messages you have aired from the soldiers and your reports this week have helped to remind us of that.

Although I understand that journalists must try and keep an objective perspective when reporting the news, I often wonder if being embedded with these troops changes your view on the war and if you lie awake at night wondering if you could endure what you are witnessing over there day after day, month after month, and year after year. You seem to be a more thoughtful journalist when you are in situations like this. The blogs you have written this week show that you are respectful and appreciative of what is happening over there.

I don't know how the soldiers cope with the conflicting opinions back here in the states about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, but I am sure it is discouraging at times. How do they keep their morale up?

I am sure CNN has provided you with the best security money can buy, but I deeply respect each and every journalist who is willing to put their lives on the line and travel to the war zone to report on our troops. All of the reports by you, Sanjay, and Michael are deeply appreciated.

Take care,
Jo Ann

Thank you Anderson. The wife who emailed her husband about your coverage was absolutely right. You, Dr. Gupta, Michael Ware, Peter Bergen, and your great crew, because they are there too, you cannot do without them I'm sure, are doing great jobs bringing Afghanistan to everyone back home. And we do fully appreciate what you are all doing. but please be safe.

Donna Wood
Lexington, Tennessee

Hopefully the medical teams don't trust blood type the Marine has on his uniform. When my dad was in Vietnam, they has his blood type on this dog tags as A positive. Several years later, he had an accident and required blood. The hospital did a type and cross and found his blood type to be B negative. The military's simple mistake of reversing the slide could have killed him had he been given A positive blood. Hopefully the military is more advanced now in how they do their blood typing and are 100% accurate.

Yes, your presence there helps the world to know that the Marines have a real mission in Afghanistan. I understand those who oppose the war, but this issue has been very complicated to say the least and the choices are difficult at best. Thank you for this blog Anderson, and keep up the excellent work.

Lilibeth

AC,

Thanks for getting the real stuff out to us, and please let the Marines know that they're in our thoughts and prayers. In my business travels, I see so many of our troops in fatigues at the airports that I pass through, and I know that they're either going out or coming back. For the most part, they look sooooo young. Yet they represent us with the dedication that you speak of and they show their honor.

Please pass along our best to them and tell them to be safe.

Keep your head down, too!

Paul Downey

Absolutely! It is a terrible war in a hostile place and my heart goes out to them all and their families. Americans are not doing enough and seem to be forgetting the toll it is taking on our Marines, their families and other branches of service.

Come on, every single American citizen, think about them, donate, volunteer, display your flag, something to let them know you care.

Thanks. These chronicles are the one's we have always hoped to see make the media.

"Most people in the U.S. probably think this war is all about hunting down the Taliban. It’s not. The mission is far more complex. The Marines’ goal in Helmand province is to protect the population."

It's refreshing to read something that doesn't appear to be sensationalist or be political cannon fodder.

Ooo-rah!

Anderson Cooper,
Thank you. As a fellow Marine...It is heart warming to hear you tell our story. I did a year tour in Iraq and several tours as a Marine....it is the few, the proud and always Marine.

Semper Fi,
Anthony Bolin

Marking the clothing with your name or initials has always been common practice but the blood type is a good idea to be added this knowledge of ones blood type would also be a good idea for cevilians my blood type is o+ whats yours ?

The week in Afghanistan really makes me appreciate the hardships our military endures to protect the U.S. and other nations. Outstanding coverage on all counts.

Good job, Anderson. This war, as well as the Iraq excursion has long cried out for the truth from the field. To place these brave soldiers in harm's way and not tell the real story is a disservice to both them and ourselves.

I lean leftward in my politics, but I've always felt that once our soldiers are in the field, whatever the justification, they require our unmitigated support.

Please tell the next Marine you see that this liberal wishes him well in his tour and hopes that he can complete it whole in both mind and spirit.

Keep up the good work.

Its nice to see the news giving those guys the credit they deserve. Ill be honest, I was never a big fan of A/C.. but this story changed my attitude. Keep up the good work. Semper Fi

This is the 2nd story I've read from this collection and I have to say "thanks" to Anderson Cooper. He said "I know it sounds corny, but it’s impossible not to want to do right by these Marines. To get the story right. They are separated from their families, far from home, living in dust and dirt, putting their lives on the line every day." Yes, they are doing these thing and it's about time someone took note. My husband spent 7 months in Iraq and missed most of my pregnancy and the birth of our first child. He was a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy stationed with Marines, which basically makes him a Marine, and he talks about his time over there now with pride and even says they had some good times together. Once you prove yourself to those Marines, they'll have your back and expect you to have theirs' as well. Please keep these first honest stories coming.

Anderson Cooper doesn't have an agenda? I doubt that, and I doubt that I'd have much to say to him if he ever rode on my patrol boat.

While it's true that the mission isn't necessarily to hunt down the Taliban, I don't want to hear the mission objective from Anderson Cooper or CNN. I want to hear it from the government.

Do you remember what freeing Afganistan got us last time? It gave us a well-trained Osama Bin Laden who turned around and attacked the country that trained and funded him.

Thank you Anderson, also please take a moment and thank the troops for what they try to do, what they sacrifice and what they accomplish. It means a lot to me. I am proud of them.

Thanks again!
Sincerely
Debbie Watson

I really appreciate hearing about what is really going on in the Middle East. My boyfriend is a Marine in Iraq and I get scared sometimes watching the news.

I think since Anderson is there with them and documenting this. They should make some kind of documentary out of the video and footage. 1hr special on HBO.
Rarely do we get to see it from our soldiers point of view. Instead we have to buy into what we are fed on a constant basis which is the negative side coming from the liberal media

As a Marine during the Viet Nam conflict, I know we looked at one another as one green group. There is no black, white, red or brown, only green.

We did not start te cinflict, but we did the job we were asked to do. That is wat Marines do.

When I got back to the states after two tours, there was a lot of unrest, both due to the war, but also between different groups of people. I did not really understand it then, and I am still foggy on it today.

It would be nice it Americans could look to the left and right, acknowledge the people there and then get on with the job at hand.

As a MOM (mother of a Marine), I read your stories with tears in my eyes, smile on my lips and pride in my heart. I am so proud of my son, LCpl Rawley Dent, 1/5 H & S Co., all his fellow Marines I have met and all those who wear the EGA. I work with the children of US Army soldiers stationed in Germany and have great respect for the families left behind while the military parent fights for my freedom. Yet among the Hoorah, there is one loud 00-RAH.
Thanks for bringing what our Marines are doing and facing to the forefront of reality.

It is sad that we wasted so much time in the wrong country when it should have been Afghanistan the place to be...

Our company made the patches that the Marines are wearing. Believe me...it struck us as we made the patches for these Marines...why. We prayed over the package before we sent them out. We pray every day for the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and all our Service men and women in harms way. God bless them all, please.

Being a fromer marine, I also thank you for putting out the truth and letting us see that the war is more than the 2 minute blurbs we see on TV. All service members have a difficult job to do over there, but we do what we do to know that we are making a difference. OOH RAH!!!

Semper Fi! If only the young and ignorant could experience such service the country would be a whole lot better off.

Anderson,

As an OIF vet and someone who will more than likely be in OEF, I appreciate your willingness to go to the lines, meet the men and women of the military and report accurately.

RD

Very important to remember indeed. We remember MJ for months, and have endless news coverage about his death – an entertainer. These guys are laying it all on the line for us, and we hardly give them a nod. Keep covering these men and women, and hopefully we will learn to give them the recognition they so richly deserve.

Anderson and CNN are doing a great job reminding us that the war in Afghanistan and Iraq is still going on, and that many soldiers are putting their lives on the line. We sometimes tend to forget what is going on, because it's so far away and does not seem to impact our day-to-day lives.
Thank you for a great job. Keep up the good work, and stay safe.

Yeah yeah, we get it: AC the hero. AC the patriot. AC who stands in harms way and reports without any agenda.

Could you possibly get any more obvious in your self-promotion? What are you trying to become – the next Rush Limbaugh of self-congratulation?

A whole page about how great AC is. You make me sick.

And I say that as a veteran.

Semper fi!!!

Those guys in Afghanistan are heroes. If we had sent more of them in and faster initially we could have found Bin Laden and been done by now. But they are doing their best and will win us the war.

Good for them.

Thank you, Anderson. You are doing a great job reporting what it's like for our Marines in Afghanistan. My son has not yet been deployed (graduated from boot camp a year ago this week), but I know it's coming.

Please let these Marines know we are behind them and what they are trying to do. No surprise to us Marine Moms that they are dedicated!

Ooh Rah, Anderson, and Semper Fi.

Honestly, most people have no clue what we're doing in Afghanistan (and many probably don’t even realize we’ve been there for as long as we have). The mission and it’s current status is poorly articulated by the current administration and the entire endeavor is poorly reported on by the media in general (Can we have a few more Jon & Kate stories??? OMG!). And you can add to that the general apathy that always descends upon our country when something gets too complicated or goes on too long for them to digest. Our military men & women deserve a great deal of respect and, more importantly, even more ‘actual’ support then either the Right, Left, or Center have ever provided, either pre or post deployment. Good luck to all and come home safe.

Hi there Anderson,
Wow, great post today – or tonight from your perspective. You and your CNN team are doing a great job reporting on the war. It's great that the soldiers are not too weary with you. I'm sure they're glad that the story is being relayed honestly. Thanks for all you do. I bet you can't wait to get home to a nice cold drink and air-conditioning. Take care, stay safe – you are in our thoughts.

It really grits me when I see a soldier die trying to protect a newsmans rearend and the newsman get the headline and the dead soldier get the second line as an afterthought ,as if he was expendable.

Why are we in Afghanistan? We need to withdraw and let the Afghans complete the war. Has Obama gone back on his promise?

I voted for Obama and I want him to succeed but we need to end this Bushishan mistake and soon! Let's get these soldier ont of this endless waste of a war! NOW!

No Marine said that to him, I promise. As a former active duty marine, I guarantee no one took the time to tell anderson friggin cooper that.

You are a conceited, disgraceful and ignorant human being, and all that is wrong with our country. You report the obvious, as if we don't already know that one's blood type in the military is a ubiquitous notion. The possibility of imminent death has been and always will be a staple of military service. The first thing you receive at Parris Island Boot Camp after getting scolded by your drill instructor is a dog tag, that reveals your name, service number, religion (if any) and blood type.

There was a time when everyone (even the blue-blood, uber-wealthy like yourself) served in the military and learned about war through their service in the armed forces, not as a grad student in a class about Stephen Crane with their rich Upper West Side buddies.

Your contempt for this country's middle class values is palpable.

Anderson; My son John Tecmire serves in Charlie Company, 1/5. If you need a well spoken Marne to interview, find him. We are watching and grateful for all you have done to show these wondwerful warriors who have a mission that affects the world. Chris
Tecmire; Oklahoma City, O
klahoma

Anderson

My dad is passed away now. He served in the Navy during the Korean War. I gave his two sets of dog tags to each of his grandchildren. Along with his name, rank and serial number was his blood type and also his religion.

As you stated, it would be a humbling experience to be around such professionals that are really dedicated to a sense of duty and honor, not only to our country, but to the citizens of Afghanistan. They are truely my heros and I respect and admire them.

I also appreciate you, Dr. Gupta, & Michael Ware taking us along into the conflict and giving us an up close and personal vantage point
on just what is going on.

We all need to know and never forget the sacrifices that the men and women of our US military make for us.

As a Marine back here in the U.S., I also say thanks for doing what's right. Thanks for reporting what's really happening, and the price that is paid by so few, for so many.

I knew I love Anderson just didn't know how much! Thanks for getting things right for all OUR TROOPS

It still surprises me when someone doesn't know their blood type... 6 years in the corps, and a tour in Iraq kind of made me think that's just common knowledge.

Cpl Jake USMC (AB+)

Why is this news today? In 2003 we had our blood type displayed on our uniforms. Military dog-tags, part of your battle uniform, have had your blood type engraved on them for the past 50 years.

Anderson, Please keep filming, keep reporting. Let us see the real Afghans, those under 30 without jobs. Let us see how the criminal element is driving more bullets into the hearts and minds of all concerned. Thank you for your courage.

So many Americans, I feel, judge this war and have preconceived notions without even realizing the sacrifice that is made to fight this war. I am blessed and honored to be an American! If it weren't for any service men and women with their level of patriotism then our country would be in a much worse condition I feel. All in all, I want to thank the service men and women of this nation! We as a nation are forever in gratitude for your service and patriotism.

God bless America.

It is so easy for us to to forget and go on with our day to day lives. I am just as guilty and your posts keep that alive.

I commend you Mr. Cooper and your staff for keeping the men and women of the Military in our heads and in our hearts. We cannot forget about them and the job they do.

Thanks to you and yours!

In our daily media circus, it is heart warming to read truths about what our enlisted personnel are doing, how they feel and what life is like for them. Forget the agenda of the United States for just a minute, picture yourself in the middle of a foreign country that mostly does not want you there. These men and women can't call in sick, compain about how horrible their lives are because the government is not helping them enough, and they can't just quit and go home. They go to work every day so that everyone else has the right to voice their opinions, worship as they wish, and, yes, carry guns. Thank you to all of those who have fought and those who continue to fight for the freedoms so many take for granted. Your honor and dedication are commendable.

Anderson:

You and your crew are doing a magnificent job over there, as you did with Katrina. Come back safe you all!

Hope the wars will be over soon, and that all the American troops are back home. Personally I believe is such a waste of life and tax payers money. What a mess!

Maria Escarra

Amazing piece. You're the best! Thanks to you we have a better idea of the work they're doing. I think it's very important, even crucial.
Will you do a complete documentary about your time in Afghanistan? Every evening, when we see one of your report (including of course Sanjay, Michael and Peter), we wish it lasts longer!
Thanks for your work and thanks to the US Marines.

Now there's just one other thing we so badly need to work on. Our military works so hard to "build" our soldiers, but we need to be SO much better at helping them out when they're done serving.

I'd also like to mention that soldiers and their families can turn to their American Legion, VFW, and other organizations for help.

OOOOH RAH!!

thanks for this.

Nice to see that CNN finally finds it politically acceptable to recognize the sacrifice of our soldiers.

Too bad Cooper's blatant political bias meant he had to minimize and demonize them for the first 6 years.

Semper Fi to my brothers and sisters everywhere in harm's way. Once A Marine Always A Marine. I pray for each and every one of you every day.

Glad that you "get it" with regard to "complexity" did it take you a while to figure it out? If only Afghanistan were as "simple" and "straight forward" as Iraq is.

You do realize where the American public gets it information right? "It is, I think, important to remember" that.

Anderson Cooper, you are the best at what you do. I remember you from when I was in middle school watching Channel 1 news. Keep up the good work. May God Bless and protect our troops.

As the mother of a Marine who will be deployed to Afganistan within the next few weeks I'd like to say thank you for honoring our young men and women who put their lives at risk every day for the sake of our way of life. You are a very courageous and honorable man as well as a great role model. I will be keeping you and all of our brave military personnel in my thoughts and prayers.

My husband is currently in Iraq and due home in the next few weeks. This is our second tour and I am beyond thrilled knowing he will soon be safe in my arms again.

I want to thank you personally for taking the time to recognize the troops still over there; many don't take the time to acknowledge that the troops are still over there. Overall it isn't about if the war is "right" or "wrong" it's about standing beside our troops as a united country. Every last man and woman is in my heart and prayers until they make it home again.

Thank you.

As a former Marine with combat experience in the first Gulf War and in Mogadishu, Somalia, I want to thank you for reporting on these Marines unbiased and without an agenda. Too many of the reporters we had go out on missions with us in Kuwait and Somalia were falling over themselves for an opportunity to find something bad or wrong to report about. They always came across as somewhat devious and angry at what we were trying to do. To see you bring the truth to the American public is refreshing. Marines are by far the most chivalrous and noble human beings you will ever meet. It is unfortunate that some reporters don't want to share that. Thank you for what you are doing. And BE SAFE!!

Anderson, please convey to OUR soliders that we are Proud of them, and truely APPRECIATE their sacraficies. Our prayers are for them daily, and for you too.

Anderson, I served in the Marines Corps from 1991 – 1995 and am a veteran of Desert Storm. It means a lot that someone is out there trying to tell the real story for today's Marines. I remember how frustrated I felt when I got home, because no one "back home" truly understands what it's like not only to serve so far away from home, but to serve in such stark war time conditions as these men and women do. Thanks for the respect. I think I can speak for all of us and say that it's appreciated.

Anderson, Thanks for your reporting about the great respect for our marines. I'm a WWII, navy veteran. My concern is can we achieve anything in Afghanistan. The Taliban will still be there when we leave. The Russians left. The French left. The British left when we stayed and fought for our independence. In my opinion only the Afgan's can fight this battle. I cry for each Marine that is killed fighting there. Another Vietnam. There must be a better way to protect ourselves against terroist . Help bring all our Marines and yourself home safely.

I work with KFOR in Kosovo. Every nation present in KFOR wears blood type patches. Not the US soldiers. I was wondering why.
And as always good reporting from Anderson.

It is good to see the "real story" being told. Thanks for the dedication to make it happen. And, thanks to the boys over there making it happen everyday. God Speed

Anderson*

blood-type? not yours but what is the deal with the question?

Thanks for the candid look into their lives while in Afghanistan. As a Mother of a Marine who did a deployment there-it gives me just a little insight into the Man my Son has become.

Excellent Reports Anderson....

As a nine-year veteran of Marine Infantry and several combat tours and other operations I learned to be wary of reporters myself. It was only proven in Fallujah in 2004 that our fears were well founded. Thank you my friend for showing the full picture and helping todays America understand who we are and how we are.

Thanks again for a job well done!

Anderson, thanks for the job you're doing and the fair reporting. As a retired Marine after 23 years and combat tours in Afghanistan, Iraq and other places, fair reporting is at a premium. I believe that by living alongside our Marines the truth has a chance to come out. As you say, they are as varied as the American population, but bound by dedication. No better service to all our servicemen and women can be performed by the media than fairly reporting all sides. They execute war as the final option and the will, not the whim of the American people. Stay safe and Semper Fi.

Anderson, Dr. Gupta, Ware & Bergan: If you want to hear the "real deal" then these are the 4 that will tell you. I cannot remember how many times that I have listened to these 4 making statements that I would imagine had the "bosses" ripping their hair out! They do not care about politics or policies, just tell us what they see! I have so much respect for these guys. Each one on their own set the standards for others.

Thank you so much for your honest reporting of our Marines... My daughter is a Marine and her husband is a Navy Corpsman about to be deployed for the first time in a few weeks to Afghanistan...Our country needs to see more of what you are reporting on, to see that what is going on over there is real.. And to the men and women in our armed forces.. we thank you so much for your service and dedication... they are the true heroes!! Semper Fi Marines!!!!

Thank you for your reporting my Marine is in Iraq. I have been trying not to watch the news. However I have been drawn to what you are writing. Semper Fi, Anderson!

Thanks, AC. I've read to many reports by journalists who don't put a human face on military reporting. If more of your collegues would realize that we are people just like them, then maybe their reporting could begin to reflect the decency and honesty of yours.

Holy Smokes Batman, there stil is a reporter who understanding reporting. It is very refreshing to see a reporter who can deliver a story without putting his/her bias or spin on it to achieve their agenda. Thanks Anderson for reporting with honesty and courage the true picture of what our miltiary is trying to accomplish in Iraq and Afghanistan and the price they pay daily in terms of life and family. Please continue to do the job you are doing and reporting the true story on the armed services in the future, you are the only true voice in the media they have today.

To Christine, I'm glad I read you're comment. God bless you and your husband!

If you email the Department of Defense, ask for BATTLE DEATHS. You will see the Army will lose 12 men to every one Marine. Up until the Persian Gulf the Marines have lost 39,827 men. The Army has lost 490,374 men. Where do the Marines go first?? The big battles in WW11 were in Europe. I served in England, France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Austria. Never seen a Marine. I served in the 506 Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the 101st Airborne Division..
I went back to Fort Benning since WW11 one time. The Army was teaching Navy, Air Corps and Marines how to jump. I went to Fort Campbell one time and the Army was teaching Marine how to get out of a Helicopter. The Army does the fighting.

This is a remarkable view of the sacrifice our troops are making for us every day. Thank you Anderson Cooper for reporting the unvarnished truth and getting the real story. Our men and women in uniform are lucky to have you there to tell it like it is.

anderson,
excellent reporting as usual, a change from the nonsense going on here at home, nice seeing americans from differing backgrounds focused on a singe purpose, even if they are Marines, go navy.
keep up the good work, come back safe all of you.

Thank you for giving the Marines the credit they deserve for doing their jobs well. They make such sacrifices for us and we need to remember to support them any way we can. As a 1/5 Marine Mom, I'm proud of my son. I also love seeing the faces of these brave men and women. It's been many months since I've seen my son's face. I will have to wait a little longer until he gets home!

Hey Anderson! I come from a family of Marines. We just wanted to let you know we love you and appreciate your dedication to keeping us informed on our loved ones that are half a world away. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Jackie
Athens, GA

Thank-you, it is good to hear stories like this about every day hurdles the military have to face over there.
Reminds us they are human beings, not just objects to do a job.

Thank you for reporting the truth in an honest manner.

I am not a fan of all of the DJ's and former models who act like their own calling is to tell stories about what real people are doing...and call it news. I do not give respect easily. That said, your observations about the U.S. Marines is a bullseye strike. Watch what everyone does when shots are heard. Most people look to hide. Not the U.S. Marine, he will orient on the sound and move toward it to fight. The strength of our nation rests on shoulders of men and women such as these. An ever-increasing burden...

Do we build democracies or destroy or enemies? Is there a difference?

No one's doubting our soldier's dedication.

What we're doubting is why they've been sent into a situation that is EXACTLY THE SAME AS IRAQ – UNWINNABLE. That is the story you should be reporting on.

The only people winning in this situation are the companies profiting from the defense contracts. It will be death and misery for everyone else, soldiers and Afghani civilians. Ever since Katrina, you've been drinking the kool-aid, selling out, parroting the party line. Did someone promise you a spot in Washington when you're done with CNN?

As for the drama about the blood type, get over yourself Anderson. They ask that question to every woman going into childbirth too and you don't hear us getting all spooked over it. Could it be women are tougher than you?

Thanks for the fair reporting on our military. As a 17 year AF wife, with my Army nephew currently serving in Afghanistan it's nice to see genuine appreciation for the realities that our troops face. I would like to see more stories like this one.

I am a nurse for the VA and have come to be very aware of the danger we are sending and keeping our men and women into. I feel so bad the war is down the list on news coverage and danger awareness from the current administration . We are loosing more men now than when we did in Iraq in this time frame and it is unfair to not notice this more. Stopping this carnage is a true priority. The new media speaks out on such stupid things and not what are people are going thru over there. I thank you, Anderson, for speaking out and representing the truth and hardships going on over there every day. May there be more notice and an end to this awful war. TAMI

Hello Anderson!

I just wanted to say thank you for bringing our men and women into our living rooms where we can all get a true grasp for what they are going through over there. My son was "blown" up in a road side bomb 2 years ago along with 12 of his buddies. Luckily they all survived. My son broke 3 vertibre in his lower back was sent home to CA and is now traveling once again with the 1/5 company. I am following your series and just wanted to tell you that your an amazing man and I know along with alot of moms, dads, brothers, sisters, etc. that we all appricate what your doing. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT, LOVE AND COMMITTMENT TO OUR TROOPS AND FOR GIVING THEIR FAMILIES A REAL EYE OPENING EXPERIENCE!

SUZZANNE YUHASZ-WIKE

Great story! If only our politicians had the same qualities!

Hi Anderson,

I'm an employee at a VA Ambulatory Care facility and I am so honored to have the priviledge to serve the heros of our nation everyday. Reading your words about the amazing men and women overseas fills my heart with pride...especially to be an American. Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for giving credit to our soldiers where it's deserved. Stay safe!!

Anderson, thanks for your courage and coverage, near, in and around mine fields......your respect for our troops is always evident in the way you talk with them and in your manner of reporting "in their voice".
Please be careful...that's my message for you and the troops you accompany. God's blessings every minute of the day and nite.

Jeannine, Long Island

As a mom of a soldier facing deployment, the information and honesty in your reporting is more valuable than you can imagine. Thank you for your insight and for personifying the soldiers. I see the pictures and think of them and their families and wonder what they are sacrificing to fight this war. God be with them, and with you as you continue your mission.

thanks Anderson. you are an honest man. working for SETAF for several years given me the opportunity to meet these real men, these outstanding soldiers. Good blees all of them.

As a prior marine corps wife, at the ripe ole age of 23, I commend you for your reporting, it's tough work. My husband was in the marine corps, and went on 3 tours to Iraq, and while he felt and still feels a strong sense of duty, I couldn't wait for him to get out, and I very much made my opinion known about it. It's been a year since he got out, and now we are both going to college in a city a thousand miles away from his old military base, and we couldn't be happier. Our lives are completely different, except for a few friends still in the corps (most of his buddies also got out), we are completely removed from it and the war. So this is what it feels like to be normal...but I still feel guilty in a way, because I know exactly what other families are going through when their loved ones deploy, and the burden they bear– the stress, the CONSTANT worry, the separation anxiety, missing out on critical years with their child...and for me it never seemed worth it, to be in that suffering minority. Now, the war is a debatable topic, but it doesn't touch me, burn the way it used to when I would know that my husband was going back AGAIN. The military lifestyle is not for everyone, I believe the marine corps divorce rate is something like 75%. I truly admire those who are still carrying on, and the sacrifices that they make while everyone else is sheltered from this lifestyle. It is quite the cross to bear.

Anderson, thank you. Moreso, thank you to all those who serve.

Hi AC, I enjoy your honest and integrity-filled reporting. Although I am against this war, I support our troops and their efforts. Thank you for making the war more visible, as too many people have become complacent about it. I think it is wonderful that you include a few short clips wherein our military say hello to their families. One tiny suggestion: when you return to the U.S., I wish you would continue to include such short clips (or anything else human and relevant) instead of the usual chit-chat segment between you and Erika Hill where you briefly comment on inane goings-on in the U.S. Take care, and stay safe - you're doing a great job!

Hi Anderson,

Hope you the Marines stay safe. you are all a very brave bunch. Take care.

Semper Fi......
My son did two tours in Iraq.

Thanks so much for writing a piece that really shows how important these men and women are. My husband is now in Iraq for his 3rd tour, I could not respect him and his fellow Marines more for their service!

"Despite their differences as individuals, they are willing to sacrifice for a common goal. It is humbling to witness. It is, I think, important to remember." This is so true, and perhaps our leadership in Washington needs to be reminded. They need to be able to put down their wallet for the better of ALL. Our brave willing to take action and make sacrifices, might be able to teach them something.

I hope you will be able to do some reporting on the women of Afghanistan.

Great reporting so far!

Some of the most worthwhile reporting of this year.

These Marines are the same as those that have fought for this land over and over, usually in dire circumstances. I want to contrast your reporting now with that of the Vietnam era, when certain "media stars" felt it necessary to characterize our troops as soulless barbarians.

As one of the "old Corps" generation, I thank you for your sincerity. We need the truth about these unfortunate current wars, , and we need it unsullied by political bias. Please keep it up.

Good work, Anderson, on recognizing and talking about what makes these DevilDogs so special! S/F

There are only two kinds of people that understand Marines: Marines and the enemy. Everyone else has a second-hand opinion.-Gen. William Thornson, U.S. Army

Freedom is not free, but the U.S. Marine Corps will pay most of your share.
Ned Dola

Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem.
Ronald Reagan, President of the United States; 1985

God bless the young men and women who serve our nation daily. They are making a difference in the world that few understand and thanks for telling the their story.

Anderson
My son is a US Marine and in the Mojave Desert now – training. Just found out last week he has been deployed in March and will spend his 21st birthday there.
I wait for 10P and hang on your every word. Have tapped some so I can re watch them...
Thank you!
A tearful Mom

Thank you to Anderson Cooper for reminding America and the rest of the world of the sacrifices that brave men and women of the Marines, in particular, and the US Armed Forces and others, in general, are making for the immediate benefit of the Afghan people, and the world community at large.

We can all show our appreciation and honor the great sacrifices of our troops by welcoming a vet home, providing emotional support to the families, ensuring our troops are provided with a smooth transition back to civilian life, ensuring they receive the proper medical care or physical rehabilitation for injuries sustained as a result of their service, or by simply volunteering in our community with many worthy not-for-profit organizations.

FJ Barragan USMC Reserves (87-94); CA Army National Guard 94-97)

As a Marine from the Vietnam War, I commend you on your reporting. I am still a Marine at heart and will always be. There is no way to explain the dedication and loyalty that these soldiers have for one another, and their loyalty to their country for which they serve. I salute them all.

There is no tougher way to fight a war, than to fight a guerrilla war.

I am always amused by the complaints about "civilian" casualties, when it is impossible to tell who the enemy is, from the "civilians", in the first place.

Best wishes to those young men, as they attempt to do a very difficult job, with dignity.

AC, keep up the outstanding reporting over there. We lost one of the greatest the Marine Corps has ever seen on Saturday. Capt Josh "Hee-Haw" Meadows. Semper Fi

As we are ~ you are Mr. Cooper!
The "Elite of the Elite"

Thank you Sir

You and your crew have my utmost respect.

I pray that you all return home safely.

What is it about "The Network that Ted Created?"

Just this week, we heard folks paying homage to the Great Walter Cronkite. It is true that we will probably never again see a Cronkite. Yet, CNN has produced some of the best, most well balanced news coverage, reporters, and anchors that I have seen in my lifetime.

Bernie Shaw. If that name doesn't equate with the sort of respect, dignity, and goodness of Walter Cronkite, then who?

With the cast of greats that CNN has, it's tough to sort out who will be the next Bernie Shaw. Then, it becomes clear. Anderson Cooper is that one.

I salute the men and women of all nations who are fighting for goodness. I treasure Anderson Cooper for bringing that fight home! Anderson is the one who America – in fact the world – can trust to show us, "the way it is!"

Hey Anderson
I saw a photo from you sitting in a helicopter,the black writing number on your right hand,is that your blood number,sometime its a question about time, safing lifes.
i am really happy,that you now wear your helmet .
You risk your life,and you are right,you just do it for a week,but the soldiers have to stay there,nobody knows how long.
Will there ever have peace in this area,how long have we stay there,we can not leave the Afghan people alone,they belive in us. .What will happened with them,when we leave and the taliban comes back
All that death for nothing

It's never corny in my book to feel empathy for those who are putting their lives on the line for our country, Anderson!

You are following in the footsteps of some great journalists, like Ernie Pyle. Since photos seem to be too "real" for our mainstream citizens these days, your voice, your stories may be the only way to bring home to the people here the grit, the pain, the blood, the waste, the REALITY of war. It isn't pretty, clean, and the dead don't get up and walk away after the battle. There's no save and rewind in war. And though I do not agree with our current policies for being in Iraq or Afghanistan, that does not stop me, the fourth generation in my family to serve in the military (USAF, Vietnam era) from supporting with my prayers and thoughts that "happy few, that band of brothers" who stand there for me.

We need more editorials like this one. I am not a fan of the media, but I found this article to be refreshing. A very close friend of mine has been on tour for 7 months now and will be coming home in October. He is a staff Sgt. who has been involved with the Marines for close to 11 years. He is the most giving and loyal person anyone could ask to be around and my word from him is that he's tired, real tired. We can't undo thousands of years of civil unrest, but we can support our guys and what they are doing over there. Please keep up the positivity Mr.Cooper, it is widely appreciated.

GET SOME MARINES!!!!! OOH RAH

My husband is Marine who is currently deployed. I think he would be proud of what you wrote. Many people forget why these men choose to do this.

I don't think anyone could have expressed it as well as you did. Thank you so much for doing right by these men, for honoring their sacrifices.

I look forward to what you have to say and see next.

dear anderson,
thanks for the coverage of such an elite group of men and women,the u.s. marines. they are very special to me, for my oldest son is a 1st. serg. with the marines and will be deployed next month to afghanistan.he has served 2 tours in iraq, and now i find myself about to send him off again to another war zone.as a mother this is so heartbreaking to do , but yet im so proud that he is the dedicated marine he always wanted to be since he was a little boy, he now has 15yrs. in and loves every minute of it.i pray that GOD will put a shield around all of these marines and all of our military men and women and bring them all home safe to their families.keep up the great job that you do for these guys, people here in the states need to know the sacrifice that these men and women make , so that we all can still live free.

Mr Cooper, you are an honest and have so much integrity that my respect for you as a journalist is way up there. My son wants to be a sports journalist, I told him to watch you for example of excellent journalism.... keep up your awesome postion with cnn and you have a very big fan in Austin TX... These marines and the Afghan story needs to be told and who better than you... there are so many ignorant people out there who dont know, dont want to know or dont care.... you makeing a difference....

Bravo Zulu, Mr. Cooper! This is about the most accurate representation I've seen anywhere in the press about the best side of the Marine Corps.

We are (well, in my case, WERE) all just ordinary folks who made a decision that put us in some extraordinary circumstances. You seem to understand the Corps better than most civilians could ever hope to.

OORAH!

Semper Fi Marines!
1/5 HQ

Thanks Anderson.I Love cnn.com.Please write more stories about the man and women in Afganistan.

Anderson,

I was a Navy Corpsman who served with the Marines and flew as
a MEDEVAC Corpsman in Vietnam. To this day I feel it was an
incredible honor to have served with them and supported them.
I want to thank you for reporting on these fine young men and women
who are doing and serving in a place that few others have known or
wish to go. To me, you are well on your way to filling the shoes
(or combat boots as it were) of the late Walter Cronkite. God bless you and the Marines and keep you all safe........Semper Fi.

Thanks Anderson for the honest reporting from there. My son is in the Marine Corps and is scheduled for deployment to Afghanistan January 2010. As a parent and former Marine, it helps to know the challenges he will face over there. The pictures help to see the conditions he will be working under. These young men have a tough job and represent the best we have to offer as Americans. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Semper FI.

This coverage is what you and your team do best, Anderson. Thank you for doing this series of reporting from the front lines...the sacrifices these men and women of our Military make everyday make all the other issues our country is facing and fighting about pale by comparison.

I think that Sen. Wilson was highly disrespectful last night. If there is a punishment that can be ministered it should used to the fullest.

The republicans, and democrates act like little children, and not like educated adults. They are elected officials and should do what is best for the country and the people that elected them. Shame on them all. We all know that something should be done about the insurance companies, on health care and auto. There is alot of money involved and no one wants to step up. Wilson should be asked to resign by his voters. He is caught up with Hannity, Beck and the other guy.

Having been deployed, having seen the blood type patches, and getting the sense of those who "get it" and those who are just "fubar" this story rings true. It's got to be hard as a report to leave politics out of it, because in the end, politics isn't on the minds of those in the field. Whether or not that Dust storm is going to jack up their hop to the COP and keep them from resupplying is. Or whether or not the route's been cleared in the last "x" hours is. Or whether or not they have all their cleared in the PCC's.

It's important as a reporter not to give away operations critical information, but showing the day to day life of our soldiers builds a lot of confidence and pride in our population, and that goes a long way towards avoiding many of the difficulties our Vietnam Veteran's faced.

And just to note, at first, I was one that didn't get it. But I do now.

Thank you.

My son Chris graduated from Boot Camp in February and will deploy with the 1st Marine Division to the Halmand Valley in a few months. We all need to read balanced and accurate stories of their sacrifices like this one. Thank you, Anderson. Oh and those of you with loved ones in the Marines, marineparents.com is a good resource.

Hey Anderson, we sure could of used a news person of your caliber in Vietnam. A media reporter who dares to risk it all and reports the true facts. Wish all the media folks were like you!

Although polls have shown that support for the war in Afghanistan has eroded over the months and Americans are uncertain about what can actually be accomplished by our troops being there, this post makes it clear what the real goals are and why it's so important that we continue to try and achieve them–great writing Anderson and the reports from on the program this week from Afghanistan have really been excellent.

I spent a year in combat in Afghanistan so I know what its like and Anderson is very right on what he has reported and said so far. It is about protecting the people while at the same time rebuilding their infrastructure all to build a level of trust between us and them so that they stop supporting the taliban and follow their own government. I met many afghans and considered some of them very good friends. They want a stable country where they can prosper as our country has. They want peace and for their children to go to school. Unfortunately the taliban uses force and intimidation everywhere it goes to get what it wants. The people have a difficult choice, if they support us openly and then all of a sudden we leave, they will most likely be killed by the taliban. If they support the taliban, they face being arrested or killed by afghan officials. So many people I talk to have no clue what is going on there and I LOVE seeing stories on afghanistan so that others can learn more about what is going on there. Anderson usually gets it right because he cares about the truth. PS the country really is covered in fine dirt, what anderson called Moon dust. It gets into EVERYTHING!!!

Thank you Mr Cooper for all of your work. We need to let the rest of the US citizens know more about these very special soldiers. I would hope your organization can one day do a special report during prime time and enlighten those of us who are really clueless about what these men are going through. I know my kids have no idea but I would certainly force them to watch something as important as this. Thanks.

Mr. Cooper, this is a real and honest article! You are truly a fine journalist. Be safe and thanks!

Great reporting Anderson. I watched CNN and your hour report last evening, and you are truly the best reporter in television today. Most have gone to manipulating the news toward their objectives, or simply reading a teleprompter, but you obviously tell it like it is! Never, never,
compromise that mission! We in America so desperately need the unbiased simple truth today.

It is nice to see a reporter report something good about the military. As a marine for several years I still keep in touch and a dedicated marine. If the rest of the reporters would report the truth on what they see and not decide what to write which is mostly negative on our troops people would actually see what our miltary truly does. Keep up the great work.

Anderson....continue the straight shooting...I don't watch TV news much anymore, but when I do, it is usually you.

Anderson, Soldier's Angels need you! We care for these Marine's too. If you see my infantry son, say hello for me.

Anderson, I've been an admirer of yours for quite some time now because of your honesty and willingness to go into the "storm" to report the real news. Being a Marine myself of the Vietnam war I know first-hand the trials and frustrations our troops are experiencing and I commend you and praise them for the jobs you are all doing.

God Bless you and your efforts. It's not often I will say this to just anyone other than a Marine, but for you there is a special place, so I say to you – SEMPER FI! Thank you for your service to the world.

About time you did some straight reporting. You said, "it’s impossible not to want to do right by these Marines". Now if you could afford us the same type reporting back home you're giving these Marines.

ooooooorah

I always count on you to give us the truth, "unshackled and unfettered." I pray for your safety, the safety of your crew, and that each Marine there will return home safely.

It's funny to see how people just cannot comprehend our commitment to country. We Marines believe in our minds that if we die then that is our duty. We Marines are willing to lay down our lives for our mission and goals as a whole. Together, Marines are one and never are we not. Marines are not individuals, but rather the whole conscious of our nation and what all others in our nation are willing to theoricize but we are willing to execute. We Marines are not afraid to die in combat because we know our mission will be carried forward by our fireteam, platoon, battalion, and brotherhood. Normal people think that these commitments are silly... Normal people make me so mad when they do not understand that our commitment to each other, through death if need be, is real and ever-lasting. We Marines are everyone else's theory... we make it so, my brothers, my fellow Marines. I just hope that everyone knows that when we come back out of the fleet we may be different at times, we may be quite, and we may be demanding on others (to list a few things), but we shall always be the leaders in difficult times of conflict... wherever that may have the misfortune of arising.

Mr Cooper,

Great reporting. It brings to light the fact that the mission of the these Marines is not about territory or just eliminating Taliban but protecting the peace loving Afghans from the Taliban.

Be Safe and see you back soon at your New York Studios. If your trip is being staged from Pakistan please please please be extra careful.

Good Luck

If an un-biased, straightforward assessment of events on the ground in Afghanistan is what is being reported, then I'm all for it. I commend CNN and Anderson Cooper for such efforts.

I can't stress enough how vitally important it is for American citizens to get accurate, factual, informative news from the battle front. It is this information that Americans at home use to steer our government's policies. It is this essential detail that helps us form our opinions, and guides our collective conscience to vote for leaders in whose policies we believe.

When it comes to battlefront reporting, cast the pundits aside and let real reporters do their best work. We Americans count on this information every day. And more importantly, our military forces count on these reports to be publicized worldwide to show the world that Americans are not all imperialists or devils. Our forces are working for the benefit of everyone, and this is an important message to get out.

Accurate reporting not only shapes American opinion, but world opinion.

Thanks for taking the time to report the real story, not the viral one. That's what I call press.

Go Army, Beat Navy

This war should be about killing the ones who planned 9-11 and all their followers who think killing their own is justified if it converts everyone to Islam. I don't know a soul that cares what happens in Afghanistan or Pakistan. It is about revenge for attacks on America. If it is missionaries they need then send them instead and bring our soldiers home . They are trained to fight and not carry out the whims of the politicians. Better yet send the whole Senate and House over there and let them fight a politically correct war.Talk them to death.

To my Marine Brothers
Semper Fi

All of the men and woman deployed abroad deserve nothing less .Lee S. said it well "they are to be admired and respected for that with no equivocation." Thank you!~~~

Afternoon,

WE(The Country) have an Americcan Soldier being held "POW" in Afghan. He is hidden by terminology change and no outcry ? Why is that ? To protect his family ? You believe that? Retired Lt. Col. Ralph Peters on FOX stated "This guy could be deserter and Taliban could do us a favor"..it's ok to say stuff like that ? We change terminology which is there to Protect our troops ? Are our troops Negotiable or Disposable ?

Bob Jones
Meredith, NH

This is the kind of stuff that the people need to see. Once these warriors were hailed as heros and now due to biased reporting they are villified. They are heros, every one of them, because they are willing to lay down their lives on the alter of sacrifice for their country, and that includes its citizens, even though they've never met us all.

God willing we will defeat the Jews and the Americans, assisted by each of these words do not sneer because it will happen despite the will of any person, Allah Akbar and praise of God and what I say Oh martyr earthquake ground out from under their feet Oh what torment us including the Day of Resurrection is no god but God and Muhammad is the Messenger God's victory or martyrdom

Thanks Anderson. Prior to joining the Marines, I never even knew my blood type; fortunately, I never needed to make use of that knowledge during my time in Iraq, but I appreciate you reporting on the minutia that fellow Marines must keep in mind on the battlefield, as it makes it a bit more poignant for those stateside.

Also, it helps clarify the reason why a Marine in a photograph might, like I once did, have the abbreviation "A POS" sewn on the back of his helmet. The unfortunate dual meaning can be taken the wrong way by those not in the know.

This is NOT what I expected from Anderson Cooper. My error for pre-judging what I thouhgt was just another TV talking head.

You've got to love our young men and women in the military, more than they love us. God Bless and Keep them safe.

Wow I was really touched by this. The story really makes you feel for these marines who sometimes may not want to be there and be home with their families...but are still proud to do their job

When I served in the Corps (1992-1996) several of us got 'Meat Tag' Tattoos. They have the same inforamtion as your Dog Tag (ss#, name, blood type, gas mask size). Most of us had it tattooed under our armpit, on the upper rib cage. It took ften minutes to do and cost $30.

Thanks for your coverage and reporting,
Ken

Thanks for bringing us the front lines of this war! My son is a US Army Ranger and will be deployed again in December. The more Americans see the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform the better. God bless every man and woman with the guts to serve our Nation in wartime! Thank you Marines, Army, Navy and Air Force!!!!

Gotta a feeling that knucklehead bumbling about in the weeds might be Geraldo, so y'all keep a look out, just in case it ain't.
It's a good thing to have Marines, it's not so good they have to do what they have to do.

cheers Anderson, love your reporting! Thank the soldiers for me. : )

Thanks for sharing the hardship that our men and women from the military must withstand. To all them Thank You! God Bless!

May God continue to bless our Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen – and Anderson Cooper for helping shed light on a very special breed of human being – the United States Marine. No matter your political preference, a comment made by Ronald Reagan stands tall: "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. The Marines don't have that problem."

Semper Fidelis, my Brothers and Sisters, and thank you.

USMC Sgt
1982-1990

Talking about their blood type being displayed on their patches, or goggles or chest really brought it home. I have tried to image how awful it must be..to live under those conditions...and I can't begin to imagine how hard it is on their families. I am so proud to be an American and even prouder of our men and women who are serving our country and trying to make the world a better place. May God protect them and bring them all home safely..you too, Anderson.

I also had a son in the military for 8 1/2 years and I have had friends who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and the conversations I had with them make me understand that all these comments would not be so positive if it were not for the agenda CNN serves which is Democrat. We all know that Bush's war was not a Democrat approved venture but even though it has not been won it is closer than this one will ever be. Why do you think Russia allowed us to fly over their territory? It was to get us mired in the same mess they were in and now we are in it. Fighting a war with no collateral damage as a goal is fighting a war of attrition for our soldiers. Moderate all you like but you can not hide history as it plays out.

Mr. Cooper

I am an Afghan by birth and have lived in that region of the world most of my teenage life. I commend you not only for your courage to be in Afghanistan right now, but also for the intelligence and depth that you have shown in your reporting. My entire family and all the other Afghan-Americans that I know, really appreciate what you are doing. Knowing what our troops are doing in Afghanistan makes me even more proud to be an American. My prayers are with all our troops who are risking their lives to protect the Afghan population and give them the freedom they deserve. I hope that the American people realize that we are trying to help the innocent in this war, and not desert those poor people like before.

Be Safe!

Thanks for good writing, good insight, and good sensitivity. No more AP photos of dying marines, please. The written word is just as–if not more–powerful, and far more evocative of the sense of pride and sense of responsibility these troops feel toward their goals. Anderson appears to have taken his "embedded" situation to heart, and it's translating into a real depiction of a real world. Thanks, AC.

As the mother of one of the Marines serving in the Helmand province, I thank you for honoring them and showing in your reporting the respect they so much deserve for their sacrifice. THANK YOU !!!

Thanks for the great reporting! I think we all need to be more aware of just what these soldiers are going thru day after day. I would think it would be depressing to see nothing but sand and dust and then more sand and dust. I think it makes us all more aware of what we have in our homes. Nothing like that, that's for sure.

Anderson,

Having been a EMT I really appreciate the need for the blood type, The last thing you need in the golden hour is to have to type someone bleeding to death. Or kill them because you have the wrong type. Also one needs to make sure there is blood on hand to support the soldier in need.

The fact that you have to know your type also indicates the dangers you have to face. Sitting at a desk at the pentigon doesn't require you to give blood type. In theater oviously means (and verifys) everyday on every mission that you are in danger of being hurt and killed.

As all way great reporting and be safe.

Thank you for saying something good about our military! I have two sons in the Army, one was in Afghanistan and the other was in Iraq at the same time and they couldn't understand the apathy here at home and the constant negative portrayal of our service personnel by some reporters. My younger son had several tours in Afghanistan and he called it the "forgotten war" and couldn't understand why it was hardly mentioned on the news despite the extreme sacrifices by the troops. My wife and I were besides ourselves with worry when either one was deployed and clung to any news from where they were serving. News was rare and mostly not positive. Arawa Damon acted like our troops were the bad guys, you at least seem to care about them and the difficult job they have been given and didn't ask for.

Wow - the "what's your blood type?" question must ba a little sobering at first. While it's in one's best interest for medics to have this information quickly - no one wants to think something can/will happen to them.

Anderson, your reporting this week, (along with Dr, Sanjay Gupta's and Michael Ware's reports), has been outstanding. It should be mandatory viewing for all who are making decisions about funding and troop support for the war, as well as the American public. Bringing us the stories of individual service members puts a human face to all the numbers we hear. They are all someone's son/daughter, brother/sister, husband/wife, father/mother - who are loved by those back home. Their dedication to their country, their mission and each other is honorable. Thanks for telling us their stories.

Also, thank you for showing us all sides to the war - and helping us to understand what is actually happening on the ground in Afghanistan. I truly believe that the only way to make our country safe, is to change the reputation of the U.S. one person, one village, one province at a time. I 'm sure I could not tolerate the dust and primitive living conditions for a week, but I admire the men and women who do, And I thank you and your crew for your honest reporting of the situation.

I think we could all learn from the marines you are embedded with - "Despite their differences as individuals, they are willing to sacrifice for a common goal." Thanks for the blog, thanks for the reminder.

Thank You Cooper, From a Marine that been there, Twice!!

Wow! AC, a liberal reporter, goes to Afganistan to report on our brave troops only after Pres Bush leaves office. Oh yeah that's right, the Iraq war was for oil, Barry's war in Afgan is for the people. Please...
REAL everyday Americans know and have known how great our troops are. It's just a shame that you can only open your eyes now Anderson.
Semper Fi

It’s never corny in my book to feel empathy for those who are putting their lives on the line for our country, Anderson!

You are following in the footsteps of some great journalists, like Ernie Pyle. Since photos seem to be too “real” for our mainstream citizens these days, your voice, your stories may be the only way to bring home to the people here the grit, the pain, the blood, the waste, the REALITY of war. It isn’t pretty, clean, and the dead don’t get up and walk away after the battle. There’s no save and replay in war.

And though I do not agree with our current policies for being in Iraq or Afghanistan, that does not stop me, the fourth generation in my family to serve in the military (USAF, Vietnam era) from supporting with my prayers and thoughts that “happy few, that band of brothers” who stand there for me today.

I was a Marine from '77-'81 and although I did not get the chance to serve in combat, I still feel that tug of once a marine always a marine! I think it's great that Anderson is telling it like it is, because those on the ground are out of the loop and sometimes feel that we back home don't know, or care, what they are trying to do or what they are going through. Keep up the good work!

Semper Fi!

Scott

Anderson:

It is nice to hear your perspective on the war in Afghanistan. I just wish you would acknowledge in some way that we have had Americans in the Southern Helmud Province for over a year. The men of the Illinois National Guard served and some died over in that very same region working with the Brits. I am glad the marines came in they were needed. it is just sad to me that the brave men who went before served without fan fare or reporters. They often had no water or food, but persevered. May God Bless them all.

SEMPER FI
DO OR DIE
2 TOUR VIETNAM VETERAN
FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE

FOR THOSE WHO FOUGHT FOR IT
CAN TRULY ENJOY THE FREEDOM WE HAVE HERE UN THE GOOD OL U.S.A.

Thank you all you do for our military. My Father served 4 tours in Vietnam. Everytime he & his unit came home, they arrived at night as to avoid the angry crowds that would throw things at them over the fence onto the air strips, yell horrible things & even spray them with all kinds of unmentionalbe stuff. We could not wear anything in public that indicated we were military related because of the fears of retaliations. Now we honor all our service individuals for their dedications & you opened the door. My Father is now retired, he & my Mother drive to the airport daily to welcome home the troops! Awesome job! Keep up the great work. I keep you in my daily prayers!

I forwarded your article to most of my friends and coworkers in my office at the Pentagon. I am a retired Marine who still serves those in uniform. I regularly donate blood platelets, 12 times this year so far, to the Military Blood Services Program. I am asked why I do this so faithfully, your article answered that question although I have been asked why the question "What's your blood type?" is so important. It's the little things that those who have not been out there do not understand. Keep up the good work. Semper Fi!

Thanks for another great blog post, Anderson!

Thank you.
My son was a USMC inf Sgt/platoon leader in Iraq.

Please do some personal storeis about who these guys are – their backgrounds, etc .

Many people belive these are undeducatred oafs who like to kill.
My son's unit was so diverse – college graduates, gangsters, poor, middle class, of many colors & faiths & homes.

He was amazed at the diversity , & highly grateful of his Marines.

He's gone now, PTSD, right after he came back.

Thank you for writing your stuff – he would like it.

Thanks so much for the article, Anderson. My son just got out of the Marines after 8 years. He did a tour in Afghanistan. It is so important for people to read articles like the one you wrote. People need to remember our service men and women. We know we will never forget them. Semper Fi.

Anderson,

Thanks for acknowledging this war. No one else, including our President, seems to care.

Keep up the good work, Cooper. These Marines need all the support that can be mustered. Freedom has a price and it's important that we all understand just who it is that is willing to pay it.

Semper Fidelis!

The public will always have some stereotype in mind; especially dealing with the Armed Forces. Marines have a better image due in no small part to the rigorous mystique of boot camp and Parris Island. As a former enlisted Marine, I recall all too well how I was looked down upon by my civilian peers as well as the Officer corps in my own command. Serving your country is often viewed as a "last resort" for those with little career opportunities or education. The sad part is that no matter what our reasons, the men & women of the military sacrifice so much for those who will never comprehend, nor appreciate the effort. I too thank AC for his thoughtful and factual representation of our troops. I fear, however, that his reporting will only make those of us who care feel vindicated while having little or no valuable impact on those that do not care to understand and appreciate the efforts of our military.

Thank you for your honest opinion and honest writing. You don't get a lot of that. You get everything horrible without hearing why it is how it is. We need more honest articles about those who serve our country. Thank you for providing this one. I hope everybody stays safe and returns home soon.

Thanks Anderson for your willingness to be in harm's way to present objective reporting to America. I would like to make a point to dispel some myths in the field. Having served as a nurse in both Iraq and Afghanistan I wish to point out that having the blood type listed on the uniform, tatooed etc. does NOT speed up care. Regardless of where or how the blood type is listed, the troops do NOT get type specific blood until it has been confirmed by the lab in the receiving EMEDS. The injured person will receive universal blood (O neg) until type and cross-match is confirmed. Giving the wrong blood type can be fatal so we can't take a chance that something written on the helmet etc. is correct. While it may seem reassuring to have the blood type listed on the body, the reality is that it doesn't change the course of care in terms of type of blood administered. RC

Anderson, your conviction, dedication and enthusiasm for these soldiers and this effort is contagious and inspirational. Even to those who believe this effort is very nearly insurmountable. Thank you for all you are teaching us about what is going on over there even if it means putting your own life in danger to do so, your efforts are by no means mute. I hope you know that fact. Thank you again and god speed.

First – Semper Fi Marines and Cooper

Second – Cooper I think everything can be summed up in you r final 3 paragraphs

This is not a war about territory, or enemy body count, it is about protecting people, building confidence, convincing Afghans to choose sides.

The Marines here are as varied as the American population. What sets them apart, however, what they have in common, is their dedication. Despite their differences as individuals, they are willing to sacrifice for a common goal. It is humbling to witness. It is, I think, important to remember.

John
GySgt USMC (Ret)

My husband is in 1/5 and seeing what they are doing over there has made me more confident I'm so glad that you are able to show exactly what is going on over there. I haven't felt this close to my husband since the day that he left for deployment. Let them know our thoughts and prayers are with them every single minute of the day. You are making alot of wives and families happy right now!

My son is a Marine scout sniper. His 4 years will be up next June. He said there is still work to be done, he will re-up and is hoping to go to Afghanistan. He is on his 2nd tour to Iraq. I am so proud of all who serve and sacrifice! There couldnt be a better trio, AC,Mike W and Dr. Gupta!! I enjoy and respect your reports. Thank you and God Bless.

We always found it a good idea to lace a dog tag in our boots in case we got blown up. that way it helps put the pieces back togather.

"I know it sounds corny, but it’s impossible not to want to do right by these Marines."
How can we expect unbiased reporting regarding activities on the front from journalists that so readily admit to being emotionally swayed in this manner?

These guys are amazing and they are in our prayers everyday. Thanks for keeping your reporting unbiased and straight. Loved your coverage of Katrina also. Just listened to the audio book. Right on.

Mr. Cooper: Thanks for spot on truthful reporting. As a former Marine Officer with a combat tour in Vietnam, I still have major resentments about the way the politicians and press turned the American people against my warriors of 40 years ago. My call to you is don't let that happen again.
Semper Fi,
William M. Anderson
Captain, USMC

Anderson,
It's great to see your thoughtful writing on the blog today. As difficult as it is to watch your reports from Afghanistan, the focus you give on what is happening there on a daily basis is of significant value. You give a much more human dimension to it all than just telling war stories. I am glad you have only a few more days in such a dangerous place. I agree, though, that it's important to remember those who continue to be involved in and affected by the war. I pray for you all, and look forward to your reporting later.

Anderson: As a retired Hospital Corpsman who spent much of his career with the Fleet Marines, I have seen that dedication first hand. I know they appreciate having an advocate in the press.

I am writing to you kindly asking for an autographed picture that we would frame and exhibit in our new community center known as the Romanian Heritage Center, located at 7777 N. Caldwell Ave., Niles, IL 60714.

The Romanian Heritage Center is comprised of several organizations: Romanian-American Network Inc. (a multi-media community organization http://www.Ro-Am.NET), the Romanian Library & Cultural Center, the Romanian Village Exhibit, and the Romanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Romanian-American Network Inc. owns and publishes the Romanian Tribune newspaper which is the largest Romanian newspaper in the United States. We also own and publish the only Romanian-American community guide in printed version, known as the Romanian-American Yellow Pages. The electronic edition is posted on the internet at http://www.findromanians.us

The main entry of the Romanian Heritage Center has a large foyer of over one thousand s.f. which we want to dedicate for a European cafeteria which we'll call "The Newsroom Cafe". The idea is to have this room exhibit in glass enclosed showcases antique typewriters, phones, cameras and video equipment, while the walls will have numerous pictures of "Newsroom People", news anchors and reporters that are known in Chicago's Romanian community of over 150,000 people.

We take pride in our culture and heritage and we plan to use these facilities to host multicultural events in partnership with other organizations, local and international. We are privileged to have a great name after 14 years of service in the Romanian-American community and our relationship with the Romanian Consulate General of Chicago as well as the Romanian Embassy of Washington D.C. is noteworthy.

We would be honored to have the autographed pictures as part of the "Newsroom People" exhibit in our heritage center. Could you please let us know at your earliest convenience if this is agreeable to you so that we can count on your having your autographed pictures?

With kind consideration,

Laura Venter
Communications Director

P.S. Could you please dedicate it to the Romanian-American community of Chicago?

Thanks Anderson for putting some focus on the loyalty and dedication Marines have for each other and the rest of the country.
Semper Fi Marines!

Marines! Semper Fi!

Freedom isn't free. Fortunately, the Marine Corps is willing to pay most of your share. Our Marines are not only putting their lives on the line to protect our freedom but also to protect men, women, and children in a foreign land halfway around the world.

Thank you so much for your vital and educational reporting. The issues involved in this conflict are very complex, but you never 'dumb things down' for your viewers. I was recently privileged to meet some Marines here stateside and spend a few enjoyable hours with them, and came away with the conviction that these were the most gentlemanly, honorable and interesting men I have met in a long time. These Marines should be a role model for all young people everywhere. Semper Fi!

With all due respect, this is nonsense. The press is supposed to protect these young men and women by making sure our leaders don't thrust them into endless wars or opaque struggles (now, we are nation-building and changing minds in Afghanistan? What the hell does that have to do with the original mission of the Marine Corps?)

It's for Afghans to want to change their country and not for our brave US Marines to waste time and lives trying to change their deep-rooted biases. They will end up hating us in the end regardless...If we still had a draft this war would've been over a long time ago.

As the mother of a 3/5 Marine I want to thank you for reporting about the eveyday lives of our deployed Marines and soldiers. To Anderson Cooper, Hats off to you sir. To our Marines everywhere, You are my heroes.

I graduated with a B.A. in Journalism before marrying an Army soldier. Through his three deployments to Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq, I struggled with the reporting. Thank you for what you are doing. Your work helps soldiers and their families. You, too, are serving the country with your service. Thank you.

Anderson,

"It is humbling to witness." Truer words have never been spoken.

I consider myself blessed to have had the opportunity to hang around with these honorable and courageously committed men we call Marines. I've struggled trying to describe what I've witnessed but your reporting is spot on. Keep up the good work.

Semper Fi,

Dad

Best article yet...great to know what is going on over there (hello?..reality check with blood type!), and the very real danger these soldiers are constantly dealing with on a daily basis. I also really enjoyed Sanjay's piece last night on the medical teams that go into field to save the lives of the injured soldiers, as well as the Afghan civilians. These guys are the real deal, and the true heroes. Keep it coming!

I am not a Marine and while I do not support sending the US Military presence in Iraq, I am very much in support of their mission in Afghanistan. It's unfortunate that these brave men and women are seperated from their families in carrying out this important mission, but it is appreciated. May God go with you all .... and you to AC.

Mr. Cooper,

I have tried many a time to explain what the culture is like in the Marine Corps (and what I assume is mirrored by our sister services) based on my own experiences in the Corps. I don't think it has ever been said so blatantly yet so poetically before. From here on I am simply going to email the permalink to this post.

Thank you.

Anderson,
Thanks for walking patrol with those men. Thanks also for trying to tell the ground truth. These men and women are not heros and will tell you so. A hero is a type of sandwich...
They are American Marines and that is so much more than most people can imagine. Sons, brothers, daughters, fathers, mothers, sisters, friends, boys just out of school, a mom who wants to be home. But they all serve and sacrifice for us. Whatever your political bent, honor these folks and thier families when you meet them.

Semper Fi
Cpl. R. Goetz 1989-1994
O positive

Mr. Cooper,
Thanks for telling the "real" story. My son is currently with the 2/8 in Golf Company, weapons plattoon. This is his second deployment (first was Iraq in 2007) His wife, twin 2 year old daughters, mom, dad, brother, and assorted aunts, uncles and cousins miss him like crazy. We are a very close family. It helps to get your report and your prospective. Keep up the good work and I'll tell you what I tell him, "keep your head down and stay safe".

So we are not in Afghanistan to fight terrorist? They why are we there? The USA is not an empire doing nation building so why are we there? Lets support our troupes and bring them home. All these young men and women dieing and being severely injured to to build a nation that has nothing to offer, except maybe cheap labor for Nike, to us in return. Once again why are we there?

Nice article. Maybe next time someone has a town hall meeting you can show this article to them. It is obvious most of this country has forgotten about these troops. I cant forget since my nephew has done 3 tours and most likely will do another one before he leaves Germany next year.

As a mother of a Recon Marine and a Nurse at a VA hospital I want to thank you for showing these Marines as Human. Many believe that our Marines are only hard core warriors. They are far more than that, I would say that Recon Marinies, as I can not speak for any other Marine, are elite in their ability to comprehend the broad mission of what is needed in any and all communities that they serve. They have respect and admiration for the Afgans as well as the Iraqi people, they in turn are givin respect by these people. I ashall continue to pray for all who serve and have served, most of all, I pray for PEACE. God's Speed.

It is honorable and nobel to show the pride these soldiers have in their mission. They get behind the mission with honor and pride – whatever it is. But, how can you explain to a blind man how pretty the "red" car is if he has never had the sight to know what "red" is? How can you explain to the Afghans what freedom is if they have never seen nor
tasted freedom? What a waste of our brave forces.

Thank you Anderson for telling it like it truly is. These men (although tough as nails on the outside) are going through an amazingly difficult time in their lives when they deploy. They might not show it, but they feel the same things any ordinary person would feel when they are seperated from their families and facing an enemy that wants them dead.

Keep up the good work Marines and keep your spirits high. We appreciate EVERYTHING that you do for us back home.

You might not hear it all the time, but you have millions of Americans that have YOU in their thoughts and prayers daily.

I served in two deployments to Iraq. During that time, I noticed a very negative view toward the military in the media despite the fact that most of us were simply there to finish the deployment and get home to our loved ones. It is very refreshing and satisfying to see that you recognize the struggle and the sacrifices we make for a country who has all but forgotten us.

Thank you for reporting what really goes on and what the armed forces are trying to do for the population they are there to help in Iraq. My son served in Iraq and was disgusted when he was home on leave because of all the negative publicity that he saw on the news regarding the armed forces. The Iraqi people gave him care packages they put together while he was there in 2003/04, there were a lot of people that really appreciated what the armed forces were trying to do to help them. My son is no longer in the military due to injuries sustained during his tour, but my daughter is finishing MCT right now with the Marine Corp and we are very proud of them and all the other military men and women soldiers that are serving not only our country but assisting other countries to help themselves.

In reference to Mr. Wilson and his comment: As a retired Marine I feel there's a point and time to have some intestinal fortitude and speak up. Especially when we all have a stake in how "trillion dollar bills" are being tossed around like a football. If Mr. wilson is right- prove it! If not his apology was correct. Your status in life doesn't give you the right to have no integrity. From the President down to a beggar.

Dear Mr. Anderson,
As always you report the truth without concern about the risks you take both physically and as a journalist. I respect you for your ability to show what is really happening.I am an avid fan of your show but more than that I am an avid fan of how you tell us the news.

My son is a journalist who works for Media LIne which is about reporting the truth. You report the truth with clarity , concern and compassion. Keep doing it. You do it well.

Dina O'Sullivan

Hi Anderson,

Hope all is well at Afghanistan !

Uhhhra Anderson! Outstanding story. Don't worry, those devil dogs will always watch your six! SEMPER FI!!!!

OOH-RAH Devil Dogs!!!

Thank you for standing up for these Marines. From what I've seen of you and your reports, you're Marine material yourself.

It chilled me to the bone when I read of how "What's your blood type?", is usually the first questioned asked before partaking in anything. It's terrifying to me that the possibility of getting hurt is that prominent in their minds probably every moment of every day. Those soldiers are in over there for the right reasons. I pray not another has to die for those reasons. Thank you for a great reminder as to what is actually going on over there and why.

Oh and by the way...stay safe, keep your head down, and don't become PART of the story!! We need you, Sanjay and Michael to keep on doing what your doing!!

I've read your biography and was impressed. I also followed alot of your earlier reporting, from the field.
Lately, I've been dissillusioned by some of your material/assignments and felt that many were below your level of talent.

THIS is what you are good at. In the field, taking the risk, telling it like it is without the politics and editorializing.

I was that which others did not want to be.

I went where others feared to go, and did what others failed to do.

I asked nothing, and reluctantly accepted the thought of eternal loneliness...should I fail.

I have seen the face of terror; felt the stinging cold of fear; and enjoyed the sweet taste of a moment's love.

I have cried, pained and hoped...But most of all i have lived times others would say were best forgotten.

At least someday I will be able to say that I was proud of what I was........A Soldier

Unknown

God bless the United States of America and God Bless our Soldiers!

I am a registered Democrat from OC California. No one ever have suggested 1) why don't all eligible U. S. citizens(residents) be provided the Health Insurance Plan the same plan as Members of Congress, either public are not aware of this or afraid to speak up? 2) U. S. should study the health care plan that is provided in the ROK. No one is denied of the doctor/hospital, prescription medichine is cheaper than of the United States. The Emergency Rooms are for real emergencies only and can receive the real emergency services.
I would like to see a couragious Member to offer an amendment to these suggestions.

Suzi

Anderson,
Thank you for being true to the Marines, I got out after 7 1/2 years in the Corps and everyday I pray that the role we play helps out not only our fellow americans but the afghan people. Thank you for bringing the have to part of the job to life. Stay safe and tell the Marines we pray everyday for their safety.

God Bless

Bravo Zulu, Mr. Cooper for a journalistic job well done. I often look to you for honest reporting and once again you have proven yourself to be above your peers. Thank you for putting into a few words what so many people have yet to understand about the role of our military abroad. Deb in Vegas is right... it should never be about the politics, although too often the military is used for political agendas. Being in service to one's country falls outside of the political realm.. as for many of us it was, has and still is about doing the right thing by our fellow citizens and world neighbors.

Semper Gumby Marines! Stay Flexible.

Father of LCPL Josh 3/7 Marines

Another alternative. Have the blood type stamped on the dog tags. This was done when I served in the dutch military ('79).
Good article.

Thanks for the reporting. We have two sons in Helmand Province (Marines) and you are giving us an idea of how they are living. The thought of all of our U.S. Military fighting in Afghanistan is overwhelming and yet we are very proud of all of them and thank you for this straight information, as our press is doing a very poor job of the coverage of this war. Seem to be much more interested in how Michael Jackson died then our brave military men and women.

Semper Fi Marines! Once a Marine always a Marine. My father was a Marine 50 years ago and the flag of the United States Marines waves at our home to this day. God Bless our Marines. Thanks Cooper, be safe.

I watched your piece on the Afghan war recently and I just want to thank you for being there and reporting the way it is over there. My only son is serving over there currently and is with the 2/3 Echo Company and I am extremely proud of him! I worry about him every minute of every day. I appreciate the fact that you are reporting what is really going on there and not fluffing up the story. America needs to see what our young men and women are having to face over there on a daily basis. Thank you for being the extraordinary and honest reporter that you are.

Thank you to ALL the military forces over there! Be safe and come home soon!

After finishing up with a tour of Marine Corps recruiting and the lies others told to have these kids sign up was nothing like when i joined. I left in 2007, i miss my brothers in arms, but enjoy the freedom i once helped protect. Thanks to those who are still in and hope that your recruiter was as honest as i was with my poolees. And don't let the old timers tell you its your only choice to stay in, i'm now beging my 2nd year of law school, and have a wonderful job! You can get out and watch your kids grow up, not your kids watch mommy and daddy get old and tired.

Hello Anderson,

Thank you for braving the austere conditions there and bringing us news directly from Afghanistan. I applaud your courage and commitment to bringing us factual news about this war. My son is currently deployed there and I really appreciate the inside look at the life and situations there. I try to follow everything I can as it makes me feel closer to him. There is such a distance between us geographically and this helps to bridge the gap somewhat, in that we get to be a part of this information here on the home front. Please let them all know how much we miss, love and support them here at home. My son deployed May 5 with 3/11 out of 29 Palms. Semper Fi Marines..........Thank you Troops in all the Branches of the Military for all that you do, for your Sacrifices to our Country and for your dedication to this mission. We are counting down the days until our heroes come home!!!

Ooh-Rah, Anderson. Thank you for the honest portrayal of our brave marines.

Semper Fi.

Thank you for this story. Too many of us here in our lives of relative safety and luxury, forget that we are at war and there are people serving and dying under our nation's flag. The servicemen and women who are overseas deserve our attention and respect. As you say, we should remember the sacrifice and dedication.

R. Joseph Sexton
Former Marine
Operation Iraqi Freedom Vet ('03)

Hello Anderson!

Excellent article!! I was really moved at the part you wrote "They are separated from their families." The family is important in people's lives, in the life of a nation.

So good that the Marine made your day when he confirmed to her that you're reporting the real stuff we're doing. You're doing a very good job and deserves this return.

It is also important to clarify that the common goal is much greater. The goal is that Afghan progressively assume their responsibilities as a nation.

Thanks and take care!

Our son served two tours in Iraq as an officer in the Corps, and one in Afghanistan, where he was wounded when his Humvee was hit by an IED.

Now retired from the Corps and in civilian garb, he is back in Afghanistan, serving the same cause.

Once a Marine, always a Marine.

As you note, Andersen, he was deeply suspicious of journalists; but he would have liked you. We follow your reporting. It is superb and courageous.

You got to love a man in uniform. I am so greatful for all of them keeping me and mine safe. God bless them. Anderson, if you find one with no family, I would love to adopt.

Thank you Anderson Cooper for being a fair reporter. This article is deeply appreciated.

As a proud Marine Mom I thank you Anderson for reporting what our Marines go thru on a daily basis. When my son was in Iraq I was pretty much glued to CNN. I am so happy that you have not forgotten these men and women who serve our country and risk there lives everyday for us.
Semper Fi

I have a grandson in the Army in Iraq. He is a medic. I can only imagine what he has seen. I have another grandson who is a Marine and who will be sent to Afghanistan in a few weeks. He begged his mother to allow him to enlist. He said he wanted to serve his country and protect his and other's families. He wants to become a career Marine and be a Drill Instructor. I am so touched by the devotion of these two young men. It means a lot when someone like Anderson tells it like it is for them.

Mr. Cooper:

Thank you for your excellent reporting on our Marines. I am a mother of a U.S. Marine who will be deploying to Afghanistan in March. As a mother of a son facing deployment it is just nice to see honest reporting on what our sons and daughters our doing over there and for all of the American People to see the truth. Thank you for keeping it real. May God Bless all of our Nations Best.

I am the proud son of a career Marine. Thanks, AC, for reporting with honesty, insight, compassion, and dignity. You set the journalistic bar high, and you clear it consistently. That's why I am - and will continue to be - your loyal reader.

From a fellow reporter – kudos on the type of journalism you're doing.

Thank you for keeping America up to date on the situations happening in Afghanistan. Real and honest from you and your team is gratefully appreciated!

Stay safe and keep up the excellent work.

Thank you, and the entire CNN staff and crew over there for your efforts. And especially, Thank You Good Soldiers. Get home safe and soon all of you.

Jackie

Anderson Cooper,

Thank you for carrying me into a world i hardly know. Please keep telling me stories about this world and stay safe because you have to keep telling us. hope to shake your hand someday.

Thank you for this article. My son is a Marine and has done two tours already. One in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He saw combat in both places. His sacrifice and those of all the Marines should be lauded. They are brave young men who will live with the memories of what we as a country have asked them to do for the rest of their lives. May we all be forever grateful.

I'm a disabled veteran of another unpopular war. When we came home we were spat upon. It's heartwarming to see at least one journalist just reporting the facts and giving our troops the credit they deserve. Keep up the good word and see if you can get your colleagues to emulate your example in their work. For you Marines, I was a Navy "squid". So you know I really mean it when I say Semper Fi.

How refreshing. Not just a brief mention of the spirit of our soldiers, marines, but a thoughtful expression.

More of us need to remember, those men and women are first citizens. Possessed of freedom. Free to choose what to do with their lives.

We are the beneficiaries of those choices. We, at a minimum, should be unafraid and eager to be openly appreciative and respectful.
There is a low key but powerful way to say "thank you" without making a big fuss and puts the soldier and you at ease.

Gratitude Campaign (search it).

Thanks for giving us the real deal for "fair and balanced" reporting. We get too much of the other stuff, where it's filtered so that we're only getting what someone else thinks we can handle.

hey AC, stay there for a few weeks I will be there oct 1st. already done 4 tours in iraq. thanks for keeping it real!

Top class reporting Anderson. Thank you for showing what is really going on!

Ooh-rah, Anderson. Thank you for the honest truth.

Semper Fi.

Anderson your reporting with the Marines made it to the top of my list along with with Dr. Gupta after he put down his reporters notebook and picked up a scalpel in Iraq to help out.

CNN is the only network I can say that about.

Keep up the good work!

Thank's for YOUR hard work and dedication Anderson. It means a lot for friend's and families to learn how it "Really Is" out there in the Mideast while serving their country.

Sincerely,
8 year veteran of the Marine's.

A job well done once again Anderson.

Thank you for keeping the Marines and those sacrificing in the military, in the news. These are our heros and I pray they come back to us soon. God Bless you out there!

Your other Number 1 fun.

To comment on your comment,

"This is not a war about territory, or enemy body count, it is about protecting people, building confidence, convincing Afghans to choose sides. This is not the traditional role played by Marines, but they are adapting..."

Actually, the Marines have done or tried to do this before, dating back about 100 years or more. It was the method the Marines preferred to use in Vietnam. I think it was also the method of the Army's Green Berets in Vietnam. But S&D became the mission instead.

Thank you Cooper!
I appreciate you standing by our troops and keeping their stories fresh! My husband served with the 101st Airborne in 2003 in Iraq. He only had to serve 1 tour and is been home safe and sound since Dec. 2004. That DOES NOT mean we forget all of his brothers/sisters still in Afghan and Iraq. We live in Northern CA, where many news stories show no appreciation to the sacrafices that these men, women and their families make on a daily basis. I appreciate your courage in reporting truthfully and standing by our men and women in uniform. May you and our troops remain safe and come home soon!!
~Cortney

Thank you, Anderson, for the heartfelt commentary. As the wife of a Marine and mother of a Marine that is getting ready for deployment, it is important to hear once in a while that people really appreciate what my husband has done and my son is getting ready to do.

No matter what one's opinion of the war, I would hope that people would at least support our family members that are risking their lives for people's right to have an opinion. . . .Semper Fi, Anderson-keep up the excellent work. . .

Thanks for the story, my son is a Marine that will deploy next month to Afghanistan. He went to Iraq last year. God bless all of our troops and bring them home safe.

Once a Marine, always a Marine!

Even a Sailor can appreciate a Grunt and what they endure doing what they do…….whether it be a “wing wiper” or part of a MEF riding it out on the “Gator Navy” waiting for the hammer to fall when they receive that 9-1-1 call! Since 9/11 they have answered the call time and time again as have all the Armed Forces, including the USCG!

God Bless them and theirs……..especially the Sailors (Navy Corpsmen) of the FMF that volunteer to join their brothers in arms in the sand box!

From an ol’ Sailor

Thanks for the report. This is the kind of stuff people should appreciate hearing and reading about. My husband served in Iraq, and this down-to-earth reporting is what people need!

I think it is great that you are spending so much time with the troops in combat zones. This beefs your credibility alot. Many combat troops display their blood type on themselves. I am sure this makes them feel better. However, the doctors who give blood to the injured soldiers always do a blood type and cross match check at the treatment facility before transfusing blood. The risk of serious complications from giving the wrong blood type by going off what is worn by the soldier is to great a risk. If the casualty can't wait then O- blood can be given. Most soldiers don't know this. I am a combat veteran and by knowing this I never wore my blood type. I am not trying to put anyone down for doing it. I am just putting it out there. If it makes you feel better/secure by doing it by all means go ahead.

Anderson is indeed doing a fine job...but what gets me are all these posts concerning the "opinionated" media. All good reporters strive very hard to get their stories and fact straight, regardless of the audience. Most of the time they do. They get labeled as liberal or opinionated when the stories they file do not jibe with an individual's beliefs. It's a shame that most folks don't trust the media or even their own government these days. Fear and distrust are not particularly desirable traits ...

Anderson Cooper!!
we love you.

Question the politics of the war all you want, but have no doubt that because of the daily sacrifice of our finest and bravest soldiers we all sleep safely at night even while they are enduring unbelievably bad conditions. And at the end of their mission, all they ask from us is to be allowed to return to their life with their families.

Remember this and be humbled. But never make the mistake that the fools from the 60's and 70's did and confuse the soldier with the politics.

thankyou Mr. Cooper, as a parent of a Marine who is there right now we have watched every niight looking forward to maybe catching a glimpse of our son, or at least knowing what he is facing every day. It makes communicating alot easier. Thankyou for your report, that we cannot forget these brave soldiers and what they are giving up every day. Pat Mersky

Thank you for this story, it is so true everything you have said about the Marines. They are brave, and wonderful for doing what they do. I have friends and a boyfriend out there with the 1/5, and I know every family is grateful for the media attention you are bringing to this issue.

Can you please let us know which congressman or senator have been lobbied by the Health Insurance Companies.? So, we can see who's interest they have American people or big Insurance Companies? Thank you!

Judy Stage/Brooklyn MI

once a marine always a marine

semper fi

Anderson,

I'll agree with others who have commented: this is good reporting. But the reporting is not as good as the poetry. I read your essay a couple hours ago, but I still can't get the "What's your blood type?" question – and all that it evokes- out of my mind. Like other great poets, you have captured the essence of a situation and communicated it in an effective, compelling manner. Thanks.

Thank you Mr. Cooper. As a former military wife and the mother of a soon to be sailor, it's been incredibly frustrating dealing with civilians who didn't "get it" as to why the military is out there in Afghanistan.

You do, and you're spreading the reason.

Thank you so much.

Thank you for the wonderful article. You don't hear much about the troops anymore. It's ashame that more isn't being written about them. We want to know what they are dealing with. The soliders and you Anderson are in my prayers.

Maslow called it the basic needs.
No. 1 Biologic or Physiologic Needs, aka water and food
No. 2 Physical Needs aka Safety
No. 3 Belongingness aka family and extended family|tribe and Country
No 4. Self-Esteemn
No 5 Creativity

Afghanistan is still shaky in terms of physical safety. Somehow, getting flogged, honor killings, blown up in attempts to learning to read and write (whether to understand your religion or expand your mind and world) doesnt strike me as a very safe world.

One aspect: The Marines form an extremely cohesive group. But at least the Marines can still respect and work with the Army and Navy and Air Force. How do we help the Afghani "tribes" learn to respect each other like our Military "tribes?" (or similarly for the Iraqis.)

Awesome! We can't forget the men and women who sacrifice day and night for this country. You are always in my heart and mind, and in the hearts and minds of every citizen of this country.

When you work as hard as you and your crew obviously do, it is nice to be recognized as being good and being relevant by the very subjects you are reporting on - almost a validation of sorts. I'm glad the Marine spoke up and told you of his appreciation; when this war fades into history you will remember that Marine and what he said to you today and it will feel every bit as good then as it does now – one of those memories whose glow never fades.

I have appreciated the coverage so far – it is sobering to watch the dedication of our young soldiers especially taking into account the conditions they serve in. One thing I was wondering about – you said there was just hot water; I assumed you meant hot water to drink as well as cook with, etc. I read something later that implied the hot water was just for cooking – do our men have cold water for drinking? In that climate I certainly hope they do.

Thanks for all you are doing. Your work is very much appreciated. Be safe.

I LOVE Anderson and his brilliant reporting! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!
My brother has been a Marine since 1996..no one knows what military families go through so thank you for bringing their story to light! Semper Fi Anderson and Semper Fi to all the Marines!

Great Job Cooper! Outstanding reporting!

I served overseas for three years, proud of my service, fellow soldiers and my country. But what does a disservice to these American Soldiers are these people in the united states who don't want the Guantanimo detainees brought stateside.
This is bringing the war home to them and they are scared, well sorry to say, these terrorists have already brought the war home to you.
That's why we are over there in Afganistan. These redneck Kansan's who openly disscuss the "Best Way" to bring change to our country, is by asassinating the President, Vice President and Speaker of the House. Make me wish for my sidearm again. These cowards don't realize how good they have it!

Anderson, ever since I first saw you on ABC, I've been impressed by your no-nonsense down-to-earth reporting. You're not afraid to put your life on the line to bring the real story to the American people. Thanks. For too few Americans, the wars are something we rarely think about... perhaps not even daily or weekly. Yet every day, American men and women are putting their lives on the line. Thanks again.

Thank you for being genuine and uninhibited. The American public deserves to be told what's really happening, minus media bias. As a former Marine of five years I know what its like to be deployed. Keep up the good work!

Anderson Cooper stands as proof that a journalist can be factual, objective, patriotic, brave and compassionate all at once.

When marines tell you thanks and you're a part of the media, they are being very sincere, from their point of view, your not on our side, until you prove yourself to us, and the incentive is the truth and actual opinions from our warrior culture in its present state. So I aplaud your Mr. Cooper, thank you, semper fidelis, see you over there soon.

Anderson, you are the only reporter I watch on television. You report news like the greats (Walter Cronkite, Tom Brokaw, etc.) I want the news, no gossip, no celebrity crap, and you deliver it. Thank you for all that you do! I definitely appreciate it.

One of the very first popular Russian rock songs in the late 80's, by a band called "Kino" was Gruppa Krovi – "Blood Type". The chorus of the song starts with "My Blood Type on my sleeve / My serial number on my sleeve". The song wasn't explicitly about Afghanistan (it couldn't have been played on the radio if it was), but everyone knew what it was about. How ironic that 20 years later, our boys are in the same situation as the Soviet boys were back then. That's not a political statement, just a sad commentary on the repetition of history.

Thank you Mr Cooper for your report. God bless the U. S. Marines.

Nice job Anderson. You seem to know that these young Marines are the same Marines this nation has been fielding since November 10, 1775. They are just as good and dedicated as Marines of any period. Being a former Marine I am very proud of them. Thank you for portraying them as the exempliary young Americans that they are.

3rd bn. 9th marines, 3 mar. div.

da nang, vietnam... july 1965- june 1966

semper fi, marines.

Kudos to CNN and AC for going out and getting the story and bringing it home.

I wonder how much tougher it is for the families and people living their lives in Afghanistan. I guess that in essence, is what the troops will strive to one day achieve – giving these people a chance to live without fear and perhaps to enjoy some of the freedoms that we all take for granted.

The one thing I really admire about Anderson (sorry, this is going to sound really cheesey and creepy – but its not in any way meant to be), is that he gets it – that what ever the challenges that face people be it war, famine, disease etc there is always someone worse off that you or I and it doesn't matter their nationality etc, we are all human and there are stories to be told.

Good on you AC, you really should pat yourself on the back – what you are doing makes as a difference.

Thank you for reporting from Afghanistan. My high school sweetheart/best friend is over there and is stationed where you are reporting from. Keep safe and keep up the excellent work. Now if only the other journalist could follow your example.

My best friend even e-mailed me last night telling me about y'all being on his base and how he is like most of the other Marines there very weary of y'all and would rather just keep his distance from you instead of getting tangled up in the messy reporting that most journalist do.

How have the Democrats and Republicans become so disassociated with the American voters? The Senate, Congress and President work for us. What is the purpose of continually speaking to the "emotion" of the health care issues? I am glad we have freedom of speech. It enables Joe Wilson to behave discourteously and unprofessionally, apologize and then retract the appology stating "the leadership" required it. Is Joe Wilson's rude misrepresentation of the facts important? The average American is trying to find a job, provide housing, food, electricity, water and quality of life. Why doesn't the government consider these issues important? How can the government continue to be so ignorant of every day life in America? When did hidden agendas, bipartisanship and the camel factor become the standard? We are all Americans. We are the greatest country in the world. Wake up government-to the real America.

We need more straight reporting like this in the media, because we're drowning in yellow journalism and tabloid lies that are poisoning our culture. Keep givin' us the hard facts, the truth. Keep up the good work, Anderson. God bless the Marines and all who serve us abroad, and please protect our embedded reporters too.

I too want to Thank You Anderson for your "real" reporting. I am the mother of a recently returning Afghanistan and Iraqi Sgt. in the Marine Corps. The American people somehow still need reminding of what our fighting men and women do for us every single day. Yes that is their job, but they deserve for sure our respect and thanfulness. Semper Fidelis!!

Anderson,
Thank you so much on a informative show. My son deployed to Kandahar Afghanistan back in August. It is nice to know that someone cares enough to show what is going on in Afghanistan. been busy .

Semper Fi: 1972 to 1994

Good job Anderson. Keep the focus on the guys who sacrifice and their families.
Way to go Marines. Be safe.

Finally. Someone in the media "gets it" and got it right. As the mother of two Marines and coming from a family of a long history of service in all branches dating as far back as World War II, I applaud your insight and commitment to these Marines to "get it right."

Hi Kevin Burke,

I'm very proud of you. I'm sure your family and friends misses you very much. If you need anything, please let us know.

I send a BIG thank you and many prayers to all the Marines and their families...OORAH! My son is still in training, Helicopter Crew Chief, but I follow the news (especially Anderson). My heart breaks when I hear of casualties but I remind myself that we must contribute to the well being of all not just ourselves and this means jumping in the middle of the fire more often than not. Keep up the good work and again, Thank You all!

Proud Marine Mom

Thanks to you Anderson and to all the troops who represent us over there. Your reporting of their story was fabulous. Keep up the good work.

Why is CNN becoming more and more like Fox news?????

Anderson, what do they think about the growing lack of support for their mission among the American people? Does it impact their morale? Do they feel that most Americans don't get it?

Hello Anderson,

Thank you for your report, especially giving them a chance to talk to their loved ones.

I hope the injured child will make a speedy recovery.

Sincerely,

Lisa L
Sydney, Australia

How come CNN is not reporting about the ACORN group getting federal tax dollars to help people cheat our government out of taxes and instructing them on how to report illegal child prostitution as a legit business. This is unbelievable stuff. How can you ignore it Come on COOP !

Sorry if I posted this on the wrong Blog Im new at this and thought this was Anderson Coopers Blog .
To our Soldiers serving and protecting us everywhere, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. Stay Safe

Is ther a reason that CNN is not reporting on the latest ACORN scandal? I use to think you guys were reporters.
You also call people who do not universal healthcare mobs..
Well I got news for you we are just average people.
I will never watch you channel again

My home has enjoyed your reports all week, doing a great job.
Let me add that all who can possibly give blood do so, you can give
every 6-8 weeks. It is painless and it the process goes pretty fast.
I don't know if our giving blood helps our men in harm's way but rest
assured it will help save someone's life.

Thanks again for the good job you are and your team are doing,

Hi Anderson,

The coverage you are giving to us and by us i mean the military families of our great country is unmatched by anyone. The fact that you are willing to take the risks you are taking to provide this coverage says so much about your moral fortitude. Thank you does not begin to express the feelings my wife and i have toward you. We spend our days, like the rest of the 1/5 families hoping for a phone call from our loved ones which often does not come for a month or more. Now because of you and your brave crew we can actually hope to get a glimpse of our brave Marines. We will spend the rest of the week hoping you get to Geronimo company and perhaps give us a shot of our son, but if not we know you have given many families of 1/5 the opportunity to see their Marines. Take great care and be safe! Keep up the good work. Semper Fi 1/5 We love you Cpl Quick!

How is it possible that you are not covering any of the Acorn corruption?

Anderson,

You are the best.

As always, I know that you can make them listen. Your compassion and insight is enlightening. The little guy can always count on you to be their voice.

Keep up the good work and most of all stay safe out there. I will pray for your safe return.

Kathy

Hey anderson

I know we're supposed to be patriotic and all that, but I don't think I could do what you as well as all the soldiers are doing. what they are doing is a huge sacrifice and I don't think we pay enough attention to their dedication and hard work.

When the conflict first started in Afghanistan we heard about women being beaten if they went out in public unescorted by their husbands or some other male family member or their faces weren't covered. Is it still like that or have things improved. It would a terrible thing if the Taliban gained control and they had to go back to the old ways.

Stay safe over there. Your opening paragraph sent a chill down my spine. I hope you'll tweat or blog when you land back on american soil so we know you arrived safe and sound.

God Bless you, your crew and all those fighting over there.

Thank you Anderson and God bless and keep all of our military fighting in the dust and the chaos

Why isn't CNN covering the breaking news about the corrupt goings on with Acorn in Carolina?? Two Acorn employees giving advice to a man and a woman who are going to set up a sex house and import girls younger than 16 to work as prostitutes? Acorn employees advising how to get out of paying taxes and how to claim the young girls as dependents on taxes.

Why aren't you guys covinger this story?

Thank you for reporting and showing us the real deal. My son is over there as a Navy Corpman, I need to let all of our Marines and Sailors that my family and friends are praying for your safe return. Can't be prouder of all the young and brave men and women who are in constant harms way. Please guys listen to your tummyknockers when in danger. Mr. Cooper thanks a bunch for doing what you do for your crew who's going through it with you. Thanks CNN for the web site dedicated to the fallen, and again thank you Cooper!

Anderson,

Thank you for a great post and a great week of coverage. And thank you for reminding us, as I, too, think that it is important to remember, "Despite their differences as individuals, they are willing to sacrifice for a common goal." Perhaps we could all take a lesson...

Stay safe and Godspeed.

I think we need to supply our Marines with better conditions to exist with. This country spends money on everything else, i.e. planes we no longer use in combat, etc. We could upgrade these living conditions if the will was there to do it. We send them off to a hostile environment and them make them live in these deplorable conditions. This is shameful to say the least!

Why is CNN not covering the explosive story that broke today about ACORN? I can't believe only Fox and the Wall Street Journal are covering it. I would like to know why the rest of the media including CNN is NOT covering it. Don't you think it newsworthy that my tax dollars are given to an organization that is caught on tape being corrupt and telling people to lie and okaying prostitution and bringing illegal young girls into this country? I WOULD APPRECIATE A RESPONSE.

Anderson, thank you so much for this coverage this week. I don't know anyone serving overseas, but I think about them a lot. I'm disheartened by how little attention the troops seem to get from the media these days. There's not much public interest in the wars, I know. But I figure that making an effort to pay attention is the absolute least I can do for them.

So, if I could ask a favor of you. After you come home, and the next political controversy takes over, and the next co-ed goes missing, and the next celebrity scandal titillates the nation, can you please not forget the wars and our troops? I know you can't always be in the field, but CNN has a bureau in Afghanistan and regular reports from there would be much appreciated. Thanks again for caring.

I'm not sure where CNN stands on any blogging IMPOSTER'S lists, however, it's great you're telling the stories of soldiers on the frontlines there. They are truly brave and dedicated. Hopefully, they will be able to return home to their families soon. This was a news story triage that is long overdue.

-Best wishes to all-

hey guys my dad is in
Afghanistan .

I want to become a Marine when i grow up:)

(i am 12)

Anderson - you are this generation's cronkhite - we trust you to tell us the truth, which is increasingly rare in journalism these days. Thank you for your work.

Thank you for the coverage. I lost my 22 year old Marine nephew in Afghanistan on July 30, 2009. He was a hero; he gave his life for you and me. Please pray for our troops every day.

anderson , thanks so much for your reporting on the marines my son matt german is right there i support all of them he is my only child he is out to do a great job for our country. as all our miltary thank God for people like them. i pray that all stay safe. again thanks it has been an eye opener