Well, it’s official.  This morning Barrett is out of Iraq.  His days in Fallujah are now in the rear view mirror.  And he’s on his way home.

            If you’ve been following along with this blog, you probably noticed that this is the first time I’ve identified the location of Barrett’s deployment.  Until now, I have not had the freedom to write the word, “Fallujah.”  But that’s where he’s been ... along with the men in Bravo Company. 

            I thought you might want to see the update below, written by Barrett’s commanding officer, Captain Micklis.  Very interesting to hear about their experience in this historic battle. 

            We expect to see Barrett early next week! 

Dear Friends and Family of Bravo Company,

As the month comes to close, it has proven to be yet another eventful and historic month for the Marines of Bravo Company.  With the success of the Al Anbar Provincial election last month, Fallujah and Iraq are on their way to a strong and vibrant democracy.  As such, it has come time for our Marines to begin to drawn down inside the city and allow the Iraqi

citizens to enjoy the independence and safety that so many Marines have fought for.  Over the last month, we have closed down all our positions within Fallujah and consolidated the company aboard Camp Baharia.  I'm pleased to announce that Bravo Company has entered history as the last Marines inside of Fallujah!

Thousands of Marines have fought and sacrificed for this historic moment when Fallujah could stand alone with the safety of its Police Forces.  Once the bastion of the insurgency, it is now a city filled with hope for the future.  With your support and encouragement, our Marines have worked diligently to see this moment come to fruition.  We are but a small part of the long line of Marines that have served over the years in the city of Fallujah.  We hope, though, that you will join us in celebrating the success of this great accomplishment for all the Marines who have fought here along with many of their Iraqi brothers.  In addition, please join us in remembering those who spent their final days here so that peace and prosperity may prevail in Fallujah.

Although the Marines are pleased to be re-united with some of their brothers that they have not seen for awhile, many of them will miss the city.  Over time, our Marines have come to develop strong ties with the Iraqi Police, local citizens, and the neighborhoods they patrolled. Bravo Company built a strong reputation as a respected and trusted friend throughout Fallujah.  You can be proud of your Marines, knowing that they left an indelible impact on those they have touched on this deployment.  The last Marines in Fallujah will not easily be forgotten by the people of the city.

Again, thank you for your continued support and we look forward to sharing the challenges and successes of our deployment.  On behalf of the Marines of Bravo Company…

Best Wishes and Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful),

      Captain Daniel W. Micklis