Ten days ago, at the conclusion of 5-straight days
of high-intensity teaching/coaching – Bennie Harris,
one of my MasterMind members, came up to me with
a package of gifts.
He began talking to me about the work he does in Iraq –
and how so many of the soldiers follow my Combat
Conditioning programs, are members of the Matt Furey
Inner Circle – and so on.
Not only that, when these soldiers heard that Bennie would
be at my seminar, they seized the moment. A contingent
of soldiers, from Iowa, my home state, as well as California,
where I lived for over 12 years – sent their regards.
On their behalf, Bennie presented me with an American
flag, a coin of honor that is ONLY given to Iowa soldiers,
as well as a certificate of appreciation and a group photo, all
signed by the top officers of their division.
The certificate for the flag raising was from:
HHD 49th M.P. Batallion
California National Guard
Col. Anthony Pulumbo
Sgt. Maj. Paul George
The Challenge coin and Picture was from:
‘C’ Troop 113th CAV.
Iowa National Guard
Sgt. Maj. Rodgers
Msgt. Wayne Marek
The units served from October 2005- October 2006 at FOB (Foward
Operating Base) Grizzly, Camp Ashraf, Iraq.
I was in tears as he presented me with these gifts. Although
I was emotionally drained after five days of giving all I had,
I still had a deep well to draw from when I received these
items. And of all the gifts I have received, and I get many –
THESE I treasure greatly. I let no one else touch them, including
my son, Frank, whom I showed them to when I got home.
The first thing Frank wanted to do was unravel the flag and look
it over. I told him no. THIS flag was special.
He asked why. I told him it came from U.S. Soldiers in Iraq. I told
him it was precious and was to remain inside the plastic I received
it in.
I told him I don’t want a speck of dust to ever touch it.
Yes, I realize that some people don’t agree with the war in Iraq.
I am not about to argue the point one way or the other. What I do
want to do, though, is take a moment – way in advance of Thanksgviing –
to pay special tribute to all the men and women in Iraq.
To all involved with sending me these gifts, from the depths of my soul,
I THANK YOU.
And to all the others serving in the U.S. Military – no matter where you
are – on behalf of my wife and family – THANK YOU. We have great love
for you.
Best,