Two years ago on during my first trip to Baghdad, my friend Dave and I braved snipers and rocket fire to fix a water tank for a local family. After spending the morning scrounging for parts and the afternoon and evening on the roof we fixed it. Afterwards we played with the kids and passed candy out. We visited periodically during the deployment and then went home.
Fast forward to 2007…I’m back in Baghdad and saw the same children the other day. I stopped to pass out some chocolate and lollipops, but before I could say anything the family whose water tank we fixed cam running out to welcome me. They still remembered us after two years—it was a nice feeling. I guess it only takes a small gesture to make a lasting impression.
I know it’s kind of sappy, but I always get reflective as my time here gets shorter.
A nice feeling...
Started by
VADiver
, Aug 08 2007 09:56 AM
20 replies to this topic
#1
VADiver
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 09:56 AM
#2
weescot
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 10:06 AM
Two years ago on during my first trip to Baghdad, my friend Dave and I braved snipers and rocket fire to fix a water tank for a local family. After spending the morning scrounging for parts and the afternoon and evening on the roof we fixed it. Afterwards we played with the kids and passed candy out. We visited periodically during the deployment and then went home.
Fast forward to 2007…I’m back in Baghdad and saw the same children the other day. I stopped to pass out some chocolate and lollipops, but before I could say anything the family whose water tank we fixed cam running out to welcome me. They still remembered us after two years—it was a nice feeling. I guess it only takes a small gesture to make a lasting impression.
I know it’s kind of sappy, but I always get reflective as my time here gets shorter.
Thanks for sharing - it is not sappy at all. Stories like this fail to get out in the press because it often doesn't fit in with editorial policy/news flavour of the month. It is only though direct experience like yours that we get to hear a balanced view from the ground. Keep up the good work and stay safe!
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#3
gracefulc
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 10:54 AM
That is fantastic Vinny - to hear things like this gives those of us who don't see what is really happening a chance to hear about the wonderful things you all are doing over there. Keep up the good work and come home safe!
"You don't need to outswim the shark, just your dive buddy."
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DAN Intern for Summer 2007 in Scapa Flow, Scotland!!!
#4
TechBlue
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 11:39 AM
Vinny,
Great story, watch your six and get home safe.
Chris
Great story, watch your six and get home safe.
Chris
#5
DiverBabs
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 11:45 AM
That's a wonderful story and it had to give you a great feeling.
Thanks for everything you all do and please stay safe!
With Gratitude,
Barb
Thanks for everything you all do and please stay safe!
With Gratitude,
Barb
"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." Sir Winston Churchill (1874 – 1965)
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#6
Bubbles
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 12:51 PM
You story was not sappy at all, but it is very touching. It's nice to hear about the good things going on over there for a change. I hope you have a safe trip home.
"If life gives you limes, make margaritas." – Jimmy Buffett
#7
Dive_Girl
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 01:38 PM
Awwwww I always knew you were a softy underneath all that black gear.... 
It's Winter time - you know you're a diver when you're scraping ice off your windshield INSIDE your vehicle...!
Once in a while, it is good to step back, take a breath, and remember to be humble. You'll never know it all - ScubaDadMiami. If you aren't afraid of dying, there is nothing you can't achieve - Lao-tzu. One dog barks at something, the rest bark at him - Chinese Proverb.
Once in a while, it is good to step back, take a breath, and remember to be humble. You'll never know it all - ScubaDadMiami. If you aren't afraid of dying, there is nothing you can't achieve - Lao-tzu. One dog barks at something, the rest bark at him - Chinese Proverb.
#8
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 05:01 PM
Awwwww I always knew you were a softy underneath all that black gear....
Yeah! What she said!
Really cool Vinny...really cool! Keep up the great work and come home to dive again soon!
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#9
Ariesno1
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 05:28 PM
Awwwww I always knew you were a softy underneath all that black gear....
I agree.
Hope to see you soon. I need you help in Rawlings 15 - 16 September.
Have a safe trip home.
#10
Dennis
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 06:18 PM
Vinnie,
That is so very cool. Take care of yourself there bud.
That is so very cool. Take care of yourself there bud.
DSSW,
Dennis
"Suppose you were an idiot ... And suppose you were a member of Congress ... But I repeat myself." --Mark Twain
Dennis
"Suppose you were an idiot ... And suppose you were a member of Congress ... But I repeat myself." --Mark Twain
#11
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 06:32 PM
Thanks Vinny. We need to hear that the Iraqi people appreciate our men over there.
#12
pir8
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 06:49 PM
Great Story. Get back to us soon so we can go for a boat dive!
Never say Never! Its almost as long a time as always!
#13
dustbowl diver
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 07:34 PM
Thanks for that update-don't think our media would share that story with us! Thanks for your service and stay safe!!
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#14
Cold_H2O
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Posted 08 August 2007 - 09:50 PM
Nice to hear that there is a difference being made.
I know the family appreciated you being there and offing assistance.
Thanks for the good news ~ Wish the press would share more stories like this one.
I know the family appreciated you being there and offing assistance.
Thanks for the good news ~ Wish the press would share more stories like this one.
Well Behave Women Rarely Make History ~ Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Formerly known as gis_gal and name tattoo'd for a small bribe!
Formerly known as gis_gal and name tattoo'd for a small bribe!
#15
diverdeb
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Posted 09 August 2007 - 07:26 AM
Great story! Thanks for sharing. I think we make the biggest differences when we do the small, everyday things, just helping people. I'm sure you're presence there will be remembered by many people. Thanks for what you do! And for making a difference.
As for me, I'm feeling pretty scubalicious.
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