Michael Yon

Conversation with General Petraeus

After all that and lots more, the bus took us to a reception at the town hall where food and drinks were served and there were loads of soldiers, including Brits who were about to head over to Afghanistan.  Some German veterans were there and Americans pulled around them for translated accounts.  One Panzer veteran said his outfit was the best in the world, even better than Patton’s that had beaten them.  He must have been ninety years old but he was drinking beer and showing an American veteran of the similar age how to prost, German Army style.  He said that for decades it had been “streng verboten” (Strongly Forbidden) in Deutschland to talk about war experiences, and especially not so in any proud light.

Time and conversations melted by until there was a tap on the shoulder, asking if I wanted to talk with General Petraeus.  We were staying at the same hotel but I wasn’t going to bug him; there was too much going on.  But the tap on the shoulder was opportunity knocking, and soon I walked upstairs where General Petraeus had a little command center, where he was running CENTCOM.

I asked General Petraeus about his dad, and he said his dad was a Dutch ship captain and was at sea when the Germans invaded Holland.  And so he sailed to New York and there eventually met his American mom.  (Touchdown for the United States.)  His dad joined the Merchant Marines, who suffered more casualties per capita than any other service during the war.  I asked General Petraeus what he thought about all these incredible remembrance ceremonies, and he talked about the Margraten Cemetery, saying a Dutch family had adopted every single grave.  General Petraeus was struck by the Dutch gratitude and talked about it for some minutes, saying in part, “This is a country that makes an enormous effort to remember and honor those who liberated them.”  “Symbolically,” he said, “in saving a bridge, we strengthened enormously a bridge between two countries.  That relationship is exceptional.”  “I am struck by the sheer sacrifice that was made,” he said, “Just the river crossing, there are 47 names on that plaque.”  General Petraeus had long-commanded the 101st, including in combat in Iraq, and had briefly been acting commander of the 82nd, the two principal divisions being honored today.

General Petreaus recounted working with the Dutch in the Cold War, Haiti, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan, and now on counter-piracy efforts off of Africa, saying of Holland, “This is a country that punches above its weight class.”

On Afghanistan, I brought up the severe shortage of helicopters, saying this shortage is hampering our ability to fight, and at one point I said, “But I am talking to the choir,” to which General Petraeus answered, “Yes you are.”  He said we had doubled our helicopters in the last four months and that we are about to add a couple more “fistfuls.”  I asked how many we have and how many we need but he would not go there, which was understandable but it doesn’t hurt to ask.  I told him about the pathetic helicopter debacle unfolding with the British and mentioned that the British MoD had recently kicked me out, apparently for reporting the helicopter debacle.  The MoD screams bloody murder at papercuts, I said.

General Petraeus said that he watches the helicopter and other statistics very closely (and I know they do, having sat in on many briefings at lower levels), he said, “What we watch very closely is medevac—I specifically watch that closely,” and he said “average medevac time is about 50 minutes.”  I told General Petraeus about the U.S. Air Force Pedros, saying they are beating the clock and doing stellar work, which brought a smile to the General’s face.

(General Petraeus’s words are a fact when it comes to U.S. medevac.  But I am very uncomfortable if our soldiers operate in areas that are not covered by U.S. or British medevac; I am not confident in some of the other partners’ willingness or ability to go into crucial situations.  For example, one U.S. captain told me about a U.S. soldier who died because a non-U.S. non-British partner failed to extract him in time.  I continue to hear similar reports from U.S. officers and NCOs.  I did not ask General Petraeus about this but should have.  Our folks need an American or British medevac umbrella.)

Questioned about national commitments of various countries, the General wasn’t going to touch that for obvious reasons, but again it doesn’t hurt to ask.

I asked General Petraeus about troop levels and he said he was waiting for General McChrystal’s report.  General Petraeus said he had not yet seen the report but that it should be out in a couple of weeks.  (Hours later the “big memo” was leaked by the Washington Post, which I first heard about the next day from General Petraeus.)

I’m as confident in General Petraeus today as back in January 2007 when we were on the brink of losing the war in Iraq.  Afghanistan is looking like Humpty Dumpty, though.

DAY FIVE

The next morning, Maggie and General Petraeus were scheduled to give a Freedom Lecture at a local university.  Word had come that protestors of some species or another were using SMS and emails trying to make a “flash protest,” to yell about something.  It was unclear what they were going to protest.  Some guy had run out in protest at one of the parades, in front of the stands where General Petraeus was standing, and everybody just laughed at the guy.  I didn’t even bother to make a photo.  Apparently sensing he did not have any popular support, the guy disappeared and the cops didn’t seem to bother going after him.  (Maybe they did, but I didn’t see.)  If any protestors arrived today, they remained invisible.

Before the talks began, distinguished folks talked by the stage.  The man behind General Petraeus who is shaking hands with Maggie is Captain Marco Kroon.  Alex Omhof told me that Cpt Kroon resisted coming today because he is uncomfortable with all the attention.  He would rather be back in Afghanistan, but was in essence ordered to come.  Captain Kroon had been awarded the Dutch Medal of Honor for his actions in Urozgan Province, Afghanistan.  Alex Omhof would later write me,

“Regarding CPT Marco Kroon, he didn't want to receive the Dutch Medal of honor because he wanted that his buddies who he fought with should have been honored too.  Maggie had met Marco before during and after the Dutch Medal of Honor ceremony. The Dutch MOD had flown [Maggie] over for this ceremony because Maggie received the Dutch Medal of Honor on behalf of the 82d Airborne Division in 1945. He was hereby the first American to be decorated by the Dutch Government.”

The speeches began and when Maggie got there, he went for maybe an hour without a single note.

General Petraeus, of course, brought PowerPoint and a laser pointer, as do U.S. Commanders.  He talked about the challenges of the CENTCOM AOR (Area of Responsibility) and focused some time on Iraq.  Progress is unfolding in Iraq and despite the problems, progress is undeniable.

Examining the graph closely, violence was at an all-time high in about June 2007, right when I reported on the Hugh Hewitt radio show that the Surge was working.  Needless to say, a lot of people said that was crazy.  (Just look at that graph!)  During a more recent interview with Hugh, we remembered that interview in 2007.  But look what started to happen in July.  When I was reporting the growing civil war in 2005, the civil war was not yet showing itself in the statistics but I could feel it growing.  By 2006, Iraq was starting to burn down, but by June 2007 the Surge obviously was working even though Iraq was mad with violence at that time.

In this type of war, as with Afghanistan, the statistics lag behind the realities.  This month’s statistics are ancient news even though the events that underpin the graphs just occurred.  A witness must be on the ground and know what to look and listen for, and be willing to disregard what the crowd is saying (unless they are right). The witness must be politically tone-deaf.

If General Petraeus did not take the Iraq reins in early 2007, I would say there would have been maybe a 90% chance that genocide would have occurred.  Of course Petraeus never said anything like that during today’s talk, nor did he tell the audience that he had taken command in late January 2007 and that by July 2007 violence began to subside.  Those are the facts.

General Petraeus mentioned during the talk that the Washington Post had just released the classified message from McChrystal to the White House.  The memo has since set Washington ablaze, yet the McChrystal document delivered news so old and parched that Indiana Jones might find it more useful for finding hidden treasures.  That Washington finds the ideas new or shocking only shows that Washington is shot full of painkillers and can’t feel a thing.  The report should have been submitted by the Commanding General in Afghanistan in 2006.

Petraeus’s talk included a description of good progress on the Pakistan side, which looked pretty doggone bad earlier this year.  Back in December in Bahrain, I had put General Petraeus on the spot about Pakistan and our supply routes.  His descriptions back then actually are coming true, though at the time it had been doubtful.

His descriptions about Afghanistan were accurate in fact and in tone.

Last year I said during an interview with Glenn Reynolds at Instapundit that we need tens of thousands of more troops.  What is coming on the radar these last couple weeks is ancient history and in fact the war at this rate is tantamount about lost.  General Petraeus did not say this, but it’s true.  My instinct is that if the President does not make a quick decision to send those troops and resources, the war certainly will be lost.

General Petraeus talked about the trends.  In April 2006, I told Hugh Hewitt on air that we were losing Afghanistan, and then wrote twelve dispatches that we were losing.  The statistics flew in the face of the claims and, ironically, the statistics seemed to be reasonably accurate.  I never disputed the statistics that appeared to shoot down the claims.  The violence, or lack thereof, lags behind the causes.  Violence is not the disease but a symptom that changes post facto.

Despite all that, morale remains good, and General Petraeus’s slide showing the July 4th reenlistment ceremony is an accurate reflection.  We can still make success in Afghanistan, but time is just about gone.

The speeches were over and we headed to a big lunch with the veterans who liberated the Netherlands and other places.

At the lunch, General Petraeus walked over to Captain Marco Kroon, Dutch Medal of Honor recipient, and they stepped out of the main hall to a quiet spot, but I spoiled the moment for a photo.  General Petraeus said, “Michael, do you know who this is?”  “Yes Sir, I do,” and I snapped a photo that didn’t turn out so well.

And that was it.   A remembrance during a time of war, and now it’s time to move back to the war.

The War in Afghanistan has truly begun. This will be a long, difficult fight that is set to eclipse anything we’ve seen in Iraq. As 2010 unfolds, my 6th year of war coverage will unfold with it. There is relatively little interest in Afghanistan by comparison to previous interest in Iraq, and so reader interest is low. Afghanistan is serious, very deadly business. Like Iraq, however, it gets pushed around as a political brawling pit while the people fighting the war are mostly forgotten. The arguments at home seem more likely to revolve around a few words from the President than the ground realities of combat here. I can bring the ground realities, but can sustain the coverage only by the graciousness of readers. Please keep that in mind. Please click…

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Seemed like I was there

Michael - Thanks for the superb piece - it seemed like I was there.

Mark , October 12, 2009

...

i always get sucked in to the photos and story that you put together. nothing like the adrenaline rush of being a westerner driving through Kandahar with a Corolla on the loose.

Scott from TX , October 12, 2009

Tremendous Photo Essay

Thanks Michael,

What a pleasant surprise this essay was. Your pictures are worth 1,000 words!

Johnathan Crawford , October 12, 2009

sub tittled

Great report, not too far from the bridge this time then. I am following you on twitter too. We need people like you reporting from the heart of things, even if maybe you get too close but that compensate from those who do it from the terrace of the Hilton and you know what I mean.
Take care.

JC , October 12, 2009

Mr

Brilliant - keep up the excellent work.

Austen , October 12, 2009

...

Another good report. Stay safe.

Salgofnir , October 12, 2009

...

A great picture story. I never knew the Dutch remembered, although some of Europe seems to have forgotten.

Joseph Bays ICCS(SS), USN, Ret. , October 12, 2009

HUA!!

great pics as always!!

Nathaniel , October 12, 2009

Brilliant

Thanks Michael, this was a great dispatch, and in no way too long. I appreciate you taking the time to detail all the cereomonies and events, it's hard to imagine us here in the United States putting up so much effort to honor our vets, much less those of another country. A grim reminder of how much we take for granted. And please stay safe in Afghanistan, the start of your dispatch scared the crap out of me, I don't know how I'd get my frontline news without you.

Eddy , October 12, 2009

...

Whoa! It's really almost creepy, you were all over the place. In fact, you went to the place where I live and even the school I go to. Crazy!

As always, you take pretty awesome photos.

Robin , October 12, 2009

Then and now

Thank you sir for what you are doing. Bringing to our homes what really happens out there and giving us the chance to see pictures and realize there are many out there who do appreciate our military and what America has done and continues to do in spreading freedom. Seeing the pictures of all the vets reminds me of my neighbor who was in the Air Force in both WWII and Korea. I always enjoy having conversations with him. I can only imagine how you felt being surrounded by all those incredible veterans and hearing their stories. It was also great that you got some pics of soldiers who were able to make it to the ceremonies as well. Keep up the great work sir!

Pat , October 12, 2009

Absolutely fantastic.

Michael -

Great, great, great dispatch. You're work is so refreshing. I get emotional just reading and remembering these vets.

~Allen

Allen , October 12, 2009

Terrific

Thank you for an excellent piece.

JJT , October 12, 2009

Awesome

Outstanding work as usual, Michael!

Kevin , October 12, 2009

...

I have been "with you" since day one. I don't know what drives you but you are one brave, necessary reporter. Simply calling you a reporter seems so inadequate in the face of a monumental failure of war news dissemination by almost all News agencies. Stay well, Michael. We need you!

Vincent , October 12, 2009

I have to see this for my self one day.

Thank you Michael! You always seem to make it to the most interesting places! I must make it to a Market-Garden event one day, before all of our old warriors are gone.

Matthew , October 12, 2009

http://thespiritofman.blogspot.com

Excellent reporting. Beautiful photos... Good job!

winston , October 12, 2009

Remember

We can never forget, then as now, the incredible sacrifices of our armed men and women.

God Bless them all, and thank you Michael for taking us along for the ride.

CJ , October 12, 2009

Thank you

Thank you for this fantastic article - we never had coverage of this national tribute down here - What a fantastic honour for these fantastic soldiers.

Kiwi Chris , October 12, 2009

Well done article

Nice bit of reporting. Thanks.

Was a bit disappointed that there were so few indications of any recognition of the Polish commitment to Market-Garden (or to Afghanistan for that matter). Sosabowski's parachute brigade was dropped near Arnhem in an effort to help relieve the pressure on the British 1st Airborne and was decimated in the ensuing fighting, and yet I only saw one Polish flag in any of the many shots you took of the various memorials -- it's kind of sad how the service of the Polish exile troops is so consistently overlooked.

Lance McMillan , October 12, 2009

Margraten Cemetary

In 2000, I had the honor of visiting the American Cemetary there. It was on a weekday and I was surprised at the number of Dutch also visiting. They, perhaps more than any other Europeans, respect and appreciate the sacrifices our vets made. At dusk, there was a ceremonial lowering of our flag and as my friend, an Air Force officer and I stood at attention, so did all the Dutch visitors. An amazing sight. I love the Dutch.

Scott Dudley , October 12, 2009

If it ain't Dutch, it ain't much!

Beautiful!

Tom Reynolds , October 12, 2009

Great Piece, Michael!!!!!

Splendid presentation again, Michael. Gen. P continues to bowl me over with his intellect, calm and integrity.

Glad you're trekking into the Himalayas during your break in Nepal. You won't regret it. I and a buddy trekked to Mt. Kalipatar, overlooking Everest base camp, about 25 years ago. What a truly awesome experience. Standing alone atop Kalipatar and gazing into the daylight's black sky, only then did I realize how truly insignificant we each of us is in the universal scheme of things. At that moment I fully understood the meaning of "the silence was defeaning". Not a sound at all. Had never understood that phrase before. Utterly alone, just me, my friend and an overwhelming, almost menacing, eternity before us. It really put things into perspective for me. It was a very humbling and mind-jarring experience which will always be part of me.

Jim Delaney , October 12, 2009

Robert G. Cole

Y'all probably know this already, but just in case..

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purple_Heart_Lane

Dr. Kenneth Noisewater , October 12, 2009

Nice Job

The goose bumps registered the quality of the report.

David Paul , October 12, 2009

...

Wonderful dispatch Michael, thank you! It seems that Dutch children are well aware of this time in history, as they should. Why are our children not being taught any of this? We have veterans (from WWII to the present) in every city of the US and I would be willing to bet that not five of them have been asked by any school to talk to our children about what they did. We are missing the chance to show our children what honor and duty look like in person.

wf , October 12, 2009

Great story

America has always been full of hero's willing to give for the greater good, to protect the weak or needy.
A wonderful group of hero's along with some Dutch hero's as well.

Tim , October 12, 2009

Great piece

Michael. That was a superb article which I didn't pick up on the British media really covering. Stay safe on returning to Afghan

Alastair , October 12, 2009

The Dutch

Are so very awesome for remembering the troops that way! Would love it if more in our country understood that. When I was scanning the article I seen where some of the Dutch soldiers want to get back in the fight, I commend them for that. I wish I could go over there and serve as a soldier. However because of a mistake I made when I was younger I am not allowed to serve. So I am working on getting job that will put me there so I can serve that way!

Robert , October 12, 2009

Tears

Wonderful piece Michael - it brought tears to my eyes. Keep up the good work! Will be praying for your safety. Sincerely and with gratitude, Julie Harris

Julie Harris , October 12, 2009

All those Veterans

I am 3rd Army brat and a Veteran, too. So when I saw all those veterans, I became proud. Thanks Michael...You are Florida at its finest.

BravoBilly , October 12, 2009

Thank you

Michael....you've got a gift for really transporting us along with you...thanks.

Sandy , October 12, 2009

US Navy Veteran

Michael,

Thank you for covering this event, truly, thank you. It was the next best thing to being there. These men gave so much, it's vital that what they did during those grave days never be forgotten. I can't imagine the emotions that you must have felt being able to share in such a historical event. We are grateful for all of your efforts both the more enjoyable stories like this one and of course the more difficult war coverage. Keep your head down and be well.

Randall Hannaway , October 12, 2009

Someone likes us, really likes us.

I have been so pummeled with anti American bashing/demonstrations around the world that this accounting is hard to wrap my emotions around. Do you thing the Iraqis, Afghanis, Pakistanis, et. al will every be grateful for the lives and ultimate sacrifices being made to secure their democracy and resulting freedoms? Unlikely. Not the way they roll. Stay safe Michael.

Papajimm , October 12, 2009

Envoy Extraordinaire

Great photos, great story and a great group of guys being honored.

Gordon Duff , October 12, 2009

...

There is nowhere else I have heard nor read of this event. This post is remarkable and I'll send link to all who care so deeply of our country, its defenders and the veteran liberators for freedom. God Bless You. Keep this up. Extraordinary dispatch. Thank you.

Sara Johnson , October 12, 2009

Americans and Dutch

My wife's father was Dutch. He worked for Shell in Java and went back into the army as a private as soon as the Japanese attacked. He was captured by the Japanese in Java in 1942, imprisoned there for several months and then sent to Japan by Hell Ship, where he remained imprisoned until the end of the war. He is dead now but a few years ago my wife and I visited some of his and her relatives in Holland. The only place they really insisted that we go was the battleground for Market Garden. A few of my wife's relatives had been children or even young women during WW II. The gratitude and respect for what was done to liberate them was deep and heartfelt. Yet all of her Dutch relatives--completely without exception--could not fathom why our country chose to fight in Iraq. Afghanistan was never mentioned. It was eclipsed by Iraq at the time.

Thank you for your great reporting.

David L. , October 12, 2009

Tell All About You

Whenever I meet someone who is interested in the fight, I tell them of you and your website. Thanks for all you do, and thanks to all our vets, US, Brits, Dutch, and all others on our side. We are in this together. Mike, you get the real truth out. God Bless and Protect You.

Jarold , October 12, 2009

Thanks

Michael,
As always thanks for the dispatch, and the update and pictures on the memorial services, I wish that people would realize that some people do remember the sacrifice that was made and is being made. Keep up the good work and enjoy the fresh air break.

Alan Johnson , October 12, 2009

Ms.

Thank you, Michael, for all that you do to keep us here at home informed.
This post is wonderful. I was enrapt with the Dutch treatment of our veterans. They deserve all of it and more.
Thanks again, God speed, and keep safe. You and all of our troops are in my prayers.

C. Renee Daigle , October 12, 2009

From "Downunder".

Michael,

Excellent report and pictures, Words cannot express how moved I was at the courage of the Airborne Vets and the way the Dutch people remember and honour the sacrifices that were and continue to be made for freedom.
Stay Safe.

Karl Crankshaw , October 12, 2009

I really have to go see the Netherlands

But I will hit the tip jar first.

Thomas , October 12, 2009

...

Thank you Michael,
Praise the Lord for the continueing gratitude of the Dutch people,even after all these years. Please stay safe. You are in my prayers.

Dennis Graham , October 12, 2009

High Quality Reporting

I'm not sure what struck me more..the vitality of the WWII veterans, the obvious affection and gratitude of the Dutch for their liberation, the odd contrast of the cornfields of Afghanistan with those of Eindhoven, the strong commitment of the Dutch to supporting foreign policy goals. Really a fine dispatch. You have a tremendous gift, both as a photographer and as a writer. Thank you.

Philip Lewis , October 13, 2009

Peace Be With You

Thank You.
It was nice to read a story about Love for our Military.

Jim S , October 13, 2009

...

Amazing post, thank you.

MikeB , October 13, 2009

...

Great dispatch! I just wrote to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to thank the Dutch for this wonderful remembrance. It is so heartening to know there are people who have not forgotten the sacrifices of the allied soldiers.

Hester , October 13, 2009

Nijmegen

I don't know if they still do it but when I served in Europe in the late 1970's there was an annual 100 mile march that was sort of a remembrance of Market-Garden. I attended in 1978. The people were absolutely wonderful and it is an experience I will never forget. Sometimes I really miss that part of the world.

crosspatch , October 13, 2009

Great dispatch

Both moving and informative, thank you

Lorenzo from Oz , October 13, 2009

Ewakahuna

It has all been said above. Brilliant....

Colin Perry , October 13, 2009

M/SGT (R) USA

Fantastic sories about WW2...Everyoone remembers..no one forgets
Keep the writing coming for the true pictures of people and the wars that aree being fought and won....Praise the Dutch.......imho....

M/SGT (R) GIL BERG , October 13, 2009

M/SGT USA RET

WRITE A BOOK ABOUT ALL YOUR BLOGS AND ADVENTURES

M/SGT (R) GIL BERG , October 13, 2009

thanks for the photo's of Kandahar City

Thanks for the story and photo's of Kandahar. As much time as I've spent on the base I've never seen the town. Kabul yes, but Kandahar no.
What an experience with a Corolla full of bad guys after you. Truly unbelievable!

Kevin , October 13, 2009

...

Mr Yon I would like to Thank You for the work that you're doing, and encourage you to keep up the superb job. Absolutely fabulous and very informative. Again THANK YOU!

D B SMITH , October 13, 2009

I'm going to get my bike back

Michael, Your description reminded me of my trip to Nijmegen nearly 20 years ago to participate in the Vierdaagse, the four-day road march. The Dutch, both young and old, came running up to the groups of American soldiers to press flowers and thank-you notes into our hands. They were still as grateful then as they were in 1944.

Something I learned then I had forgotten until you mentioned the Germans stealing Dutch bikes. Apparently there's an idiomatic phrase the Dutch use to describe a trip to Germany that means literally, "I'm going to get my bike back."

Bob Krumm , October 13, 2009

...

Footnote:
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that Lance Corporal James Hill from 1st Battalion The Coldstream Guards has been killed by an explosion near to Camp Bastion in central Helmand Province on the morning of 8 October 2009.

Peter Haydon , October 13, 2009

In Remembrance

Thank you for your excellent post as always. A reminder of a grateful country who value freedom from bondage of tyranny.
A lesson for us all to never, ever forget those who willingly sacrificed, and have laid down there lives to save others. No greater deed than to have courage to face adversity, and to extend the joy of freedom.

Again thank you for the work that you do, so others may know!

Ruth , October 13, 2009

Many Thanks

Thanks, Michael, for this great site and photos. I would like to add to the conversation by adding a link to the National WWII Glider Pilots Association's website where anyone interested in a mostly forgotten combat MOS can learn more about the Glider Pilots of WWII who played such an important role in all our airborne ops during WWII. Here is the link: http://www.ww2gp.org/

Maggio , October 13, 2009

Thanks for this story

The spirit of freedom is still very much alive in the Netherlands. And we honour every one who died defending it.

a dutchman , October 13, 2009

Force Protection KAF

Our forces at KAF (Kandahar Airfield) have a base so large that this commercial jet is about to land there after flying dangerously over this unsecured road.
Mike, with all due respect, could i just point out, that the above sentence is wrong. The RAF Regiment carry out patrols in the areas of flight take off and landing. These patrols are carried out on foot, mobile, standing patrols, using all forms of ISTAR, support weapons and using the Principles of Defence to the fullest extent. Sorry, i had to point this out otherwise my 6 month tours and reason for being there, mean absolutely nothing!

Steve C , October 13, 2009

FP KAF

By the way Michael, i look forward most days to reading your articles, a Soldiers journalist if ever there was one, take care.

Steve C , October 13, 2009

another thank you

I've not felt so fine in a good while. To see such over the top positive thanks and remembrance strengthens my faith in the goodness of mankind.

thank you to the people of Holland, to Michael Yon and above all to those who made the sacrifice.

RJR , October 13, 2009

No im not tired and no im not sick of reading

I literally wait for a new dispatch to come out. I periodically check the page and am a little disappointed when there isnt something new. A bit ridiculous, i know, but your writing is appreciated and very refreshing. Im glad there are those that are so thankful for what we have done and what we stand for. Thank you, can't wait to get back to AFG?

Sharleen , October 13, 2009

A thank you from the Netherlands

Thank you for another brilliant dispatch Michael. I'm a huge admirer of your work. Had I known you were in the Netherlands I would have done everything possible to meet you.

As a Dutchman I'm very thankful for the service and sacrifice of all those allied veterans ) who liberated Europe from evil. Not just American, but Russians, Brits, Poles and Moroccan Goumiers, etc, etc. I'm glad that our efforts in remembering them are so appreciated. However, this kind of emotional remembrance is unfortunately less widespread than it might seem. As in the rest of the world there is much ignorance of and disinterest in our history.

If Obama does not send those reinforcements, the war is lost and we (the Dutch) should pull out as planned in 2010. If he commits to the resources for proper COIN we should continue our contribution as well. The Dutch public does not understand the mission though. Our politicians are mostly ignorant and only look at immediate costs and opinion polls. So I'm afraid the chances of us staying committed to Afghanistan are small.

Rutger van M. , October 13, 2009

...

Thanks for a wonderful tribute to our veterans and the gracious Dutch people. May God continue to bless us and our NATO allies.

spratico , October 13, 2009

Thanks

Thanks for the great post. LTC Megelles was the guest speaker at my graduation from Airborne in April 2008, and we were all blown away by the energy and enthusiasm of this 91-year-old hero. It was his first trip back to Fort Benning since he himself had graduated Airborne School, and he told us how little had changed...except that now the school is three weeks long instead of four. "When I graduated, we had ground week, and tower week, and jump week, just like you...but we also had 'rigging week', where we all learned to rig our own parachutes. We would jump in the parachutes that we rigged, so we sure sweated those first jumps. I'll let you guess why the Army doesn't have 'rigging week' anymore." A great man.

T. Andersen , October 13, 2009

You are the voice of American Conscience

or at least you should be.

Damn fine article Michael!! You continue to excel and highlight not only our proud heritage but why (and who) we should be proud of everyday!

Stay safe.

Desert Sailor , October 13, 2009

You continue to Amaze.

It seems that you are growing with your aspirations and challenges, and not only keeping up but doing exceptional service to them and of course to all of us.

The respect and admiration of our Vets is something that we could all learn a lot from these fine people in this wonderful Nation. I just wish the average American could see your pictures and this dispatch. But most are too tied up in their own little world with their day to day problems which are not small today and will grow over the next year or more.

Again thanks for an exceptional dispatch and exceptional effort on your part, tho I know you are chomping to get back to our Warriors in Afghanistan. I wish to repeat something I have said to you for years:

Remember...your NOT bullet proof.

Papa Ray
Central (used to be West) Texas

Papa Ray , October 13, 2009

Wonderful

Perhaps someday we will commemorate a victory in Afghanistan...my uncle, though not Airborne, was with Patton and decorated with the Silver and Bronze Stars, Purple Hearts and French Croix de Guerre for, among other things, taking out a Tiger which had pinned down his platoon. After the War he walked the streets at night meeting other combat veterans who were also walking the streets. PTSD was virtually an unknown at that time though following the First World War there had been some research on shell shock and more apparent symptons. Besides all the metal for his chest he also carried a metal plate in his head where a piece of his skull had to be removed. I look at the GIs in Iraq and Afghanistan with the same respect as I view my uncle. Other uncles were 8th AF bomber pilot and USMC in Pacific .My Dad was Air Corp pilot-in-training when the War ended. True heroes and role models unlike most of these overpaid and spoiled athletes who get so much media attention.

Brian , October 13, 2009

Bravo Zulu

Outstanding post as usual, Mr. Yon. All Americans should be reading this site.

Kilroy , October 13, 2009

Amazing and Beautiful!

Mr. Yon, You are a remarkable reporter! Your photos and the writing place me in the Market Garden,
I Love Listening to the Veterans! Wish I could have been there! God Bless and Be Safe!

Terri LPN , October 13, 2009

Thank you Michael

You're really very good at this. I love reading you.

Christopher , October 13, 2009

That was amazing!

Thank you so much for that wonderful story. My grandfather was a veteran of WWII and that really hits close to home. Thank you also for the work that you do in Afghanistan, it means so much to me to know what is going on over there. A lot of those troops are around my age (25) and it's heartening to know that someone over there is chronicling their journey so that they will be remembered for what they have done, much like the WWII veterans. Knowledge is infectious, thanks for spreading it.

SaraJean , October 13, 2009

Thank you Mr. Yon

Thank you Mr. Yon for writing this piece and for the photo essay.
This reader feels like I was right there with you.

Cindy , October 13, 2009

Thank you so much

This was a fantastic piece.
I'm terribly sorry that your warnings weren't heeded on Afghanistan.
I don't know what the problem is... we were showing an 11, the dealer a 7, but we still couldn't double-down.
My question is whether intransigence (of both administrations) on Afghanistan has made it harder for our soldiers to win there now? I would imagine so, but we need to win it anyways. My apologies to those who will pay for our unwillingness to provide the support they needed the whole time.

fooburger , October 13, 2009

A Great Post

This was a pleasant and encouraging story to read and one of your best in your collection of treasures.

Dale , October 14, 2009

Real, Murderous Oppression and Real Liberation From It

Thank you, Michael, and THANK YOU to the veterans whose efforts and sacrifices bequeath to us, the living and the liberated, the chance of a lifetime to MAKE OUR LIFETIMES worthy of their sacrifice.

I called my teen sons to wade through this with me, that they, too, might hold high the torch of individual liberty and the responsibility that comes WITH such personal freedom.

Keep up the good work, Sir. (Yes, I see the need for fiscal support, and I'm working on it)

Karridine , October 14, 2009

Students learned volumes

The 12 College of the Ozarks (Point Lookout, MO) students who accompanied these WWII Veterans had an unmatched educational experience during their jouney reinforcing the College's focus on patriotic education. Thanks for the beautiful photos and commentary. I will pass your link on to the students. Sue Head, The Keeter Center for Character Education, College of the Ozarks

Sue Head , October 14, 2009

RAF Halton

You let yourself down Michael with the comment below the picture of the RAF Halton Pipe Band. Some of them may well be Scots, but a kilt is normal dress for a pipe band - whether it comes from India, Canada, or an RAF base in England! The RAF Halton Pipe Band is an award winning band based in England but performing all over the world - as seen in your post.

neil bausor , October 14, 2009

Eindoven

I marched through Hertogenbosch with the Royal Welch Fusiliers who liberated that town, very moving experience.

We were in full dress unifrom and the people applauded and threw flowers in our path, couldnt pay for a drink all night.

Stayed in barracks somewhere near Eindoven I think, little bit hazy now as some 10 - 15 years ago.

Thanks Michael for the story and pics

Regards
TJ

Tony Dean , October 14, 2009

Market Garden: Further North

Dear Michael: I'm an American expat living in Ede, near Arnhem. Each year in September there is a commemoration at the LZ of 4th Para Bde on the Ginkelse Heide east of Ede. This year over 1,000 British, Dutch, American, Polish and German paratroops jumped to commemorate Operation Market-Garden. The event is, of course, very much directed to remembrance of the British and Polish efforts in and around Arnhem. Many British and Polish veterans still come.

I've noted that there are always small contingents of American soldiers present at these events. This year I took along an extra thermos of coffee. I found a group of soldiers from the 101st Division. Shook their hands, and thanked them for their service and all they've done for their country. I offered them my coffee, but they had a job to do, but seemed pleased to shake my hand and give their names.

I didn't do much at all for these folks, but am glad that, in even the smallest way, these soldiers know that they are appreciated.

Bob , October 14, 2009

Market Garden

I am 1 of the Dutch re-enacters (with my brother and friends) present at the Waalcrossing monument (also participated in the Eindhoven parade).
For us its very moving to be able to see, talk and thank the Allied veterans who helped liberate us from oppression before I was even born.

Lets hope peace will finally be achieved in places like Iraq and Afghanistan soon. Keep safe.

-We will remember-

Olaf , October 14, 2009

Inspiring Story

What a wonderful post. This is an inspiring story admist the negative news we always here. To have a country that is grateful for their liberation gives me hope that others might follow in their footsteps in the future. I felt like I was there. Fantastic retelling of the event!

Emily , October 14, 2009

DZ-A Eerde

Michael this is an excellent report !
As one of the organiser of re-enactment camp Dropzone-A at Eerde we could just focus on our own programm. With this beautiful report we get an excellent view of all the other commemorations that have been organized.
I am also glad that you have captured the story of Guadalope, I took him in my Jeep for the Eindhoven parade. It was an honor.
Well done.

"Klondike"

klondike , October 14, 2009

Market Garden

As usual, a moving post. Thank you.

I was a bit subdued by Canada only sending their defence attache when our country played such a huge role in the liberation of Holland during WW2.

Some say that without the Canadians surprising the Taliban with their willingness to fight, the city of Kandahar would have fallen in 2006. I don't know if that is true, but the instant cooperation between the Dutch and the Canadians at the equipment level (tanks, helicopters)in 2006 led to a much better equipped and protected Canadian force. Although, again, as Michael says repeatedly, much more needed and needs to be done on the kit and protection our soldiers need for the job at hand.

Keith , October 14, 2009

Never forget

The Dutch have not forgotten. They also do alot of the fighting in A-stan. M. Yon, keep that pistol close...

Robert , October 14, 2009

Fabulous Post!

What an absolutely all-encompassing post. From the danger in Afghanistan, to a country liberated in another era that has definitely progressed since then. It's good to see the veterans so well appreciated, after what seems like decades of silence over here for much too long. Once again, job well done Michael.

The Kitchen Dispatch (Kanani) , October 14, 2009

Uplifting

Good story - hopefully some day our Middle East veterans (or at least their children) can enjoy similar ceremonies such as this one in Holland for the WWII veterans.

Lewis in Orlando , October 14, 2009

Great work

Keep it up. I had no idea the Dutch were so gracious and honored our veterans in such a manner. I hope our vets receive the same kind of special attention here in the U.S. They deserve it.

Sean , October 14, 2009

Not arabian gulf

Michael, in your 1st page you have mentioned arabian gulf. That's incorrect. It's persian gulf. I thought you would be careful with historical facts on your blog.

Winston , October 14, 2009

Former US soldier

Micheal,
I am simply amazed at your post from Eindhoven. Thorough, respectful, detailed, with something for everyone. You captured the events perfectly with your words and pics. The Netherlanders have long memories and really appreciate their liberators from WWII. Let's start a campaign here in the US to get WWII and Korean War vets invited to speak at local schools, to try to give our students a true perspective on history, unaltered by revisionists and politics. Is anyone doing this on a national level? If so, respond to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and I'll get involved.

Mack McKinney , October 14, 2009

...

Great dispatch, Michael. A very moving display by the Dutch people. I hope I can visit their beautiful country some day.

Charles T. , October 14, 2009

Persian / Arabian Gulf

Michael writes that he often calls it the Arabian Gulf because a lot of people call it the Arabian Gulf. Others call it the Persian Gulf. I have found it labeled both ways on maps and globes.

Bill Smith , October 15, 2009

Thanks, would have loved more

Michael, this was a great dispatch. God bless you and keep you safe as you navigate the dangerous territory you choose to report from.

You remarked about the length of your dispatch; it could have been twice as long and not been long enough. I would never tire of seeing these greatful remembrances and the distinguished veterans who gave their youth and their friends to the liberation of others from tyranny. Tremendous job.

David Carlson , October 15, 2009

Margraten Remembered

Thanks Michael. My Dad was one of those flying the gliders. He would have enjoyed your story...I did.

teri bingham , October 15, 2009

Great Tribute!

What a great dispatch! I really enjoyed this and was touched by the warmth and respect of the Dutch. A nice tribute to our most special veterans. Thanks to all of them for our liberty and to you for all you do Michael!

Andre , October 15, 2009

...

Michael,
Thank you for this great article!!!
I hope to see you again later this year

All the Way,

Maggie

James "Maggie" Megellas , October 16, 2009

****

Your a good man, Michael. Thank you for your reporting.

Janet , October 16, 2009

Superb

Excellent photos and commentary. It is heartening to see the Dutch hospitality to our veterans. It often seems as if we are going it alone these days and it is important that we realize that there are others who stand with us.

Wil Cushman , October 16, 2009

...

Coincidentally, I had just finished re-reading Cornelius Ryan's *A Bridge Too Far* when I looked at the calendar and saw that I was reading about MARKET-GARDEN exactly 65 years after it happened, to the day, when the shattered British 1st Airborne had to be withdrawn across the Rhine. (Chills.) Tragically, the failure of the op condemned the Dutch to a winter of starvation and months more before liberation—and yet, look at how they express their gratitude to the veterans that attempted to free them from the Nazis! No Euro-hatred of America, here. I am amazed at the sacrifices of these gallant men, and glad that there are those who remember history, and keep the remembrance alive for the rest of us. You are doing that, Michael, in real-time, and I thank you for your photos and journalism. Take care of yourself, eh? Speaking of history, today (10-16-09) is the 50th anniversary of the passing of GENARMY George Catlett Marshall, America's Number One Soldier (at least, during WW2).

Mark Pichaj , October 17, 2009

...

Great work Michael I'm a member of a belgium reinactment club the patton drivers and owns a dodge WC 54 ambulance after seeing this pictures I hope to take part one day at this great commemoration in holland.Keep up the good work charles

osaer charles , October 17, 2009

Incredible

"Now do you believe that Dutch people treat our veterans like rock stars and Royalty? Are you tired? Is this dispatch too long? But wait. It’s not over yet"


HAHA I never doubted you for a minute, but those photos and events were still incredible to behold. May God Bless the Dutch and Holland. Wonderful dispatch.

Matthew Gonzalez , October 17, 2009

Cheers and Tears

Thank you for this work! I pray to God that our friends in Holland can win their fight with radical islam, they seem to be a country that "gets it".
This was not too long. The vets day are few, and I know they will treasure this trip and ceremony for the rest of their lives. This tribute got to me. Different wars and different eras, but the fighters are timeless. Those who claim America is going to hell are wrong.

Peter Montbriand , October 17, 2009

Thanks!

Mike -- superb piece, too short (if anything), and the photos were fantastic. I've known for sometime how well the Nederlanders honor the Allied soldiers who liberated them. A member of my late uncle's infantry squad from the 95th ID is buried in Margraten, and his grave has been in the special care of a Dutch family for many years.

Soljerblue , October 18, 2009

...

Bravo ... my father was a WW II vet ... at Lt in the medical corps .... I am proud of America!
Thank you ... this is why ...

Best wishes ... God Bless

Christopher , October 20, 2009

...

Nice!!!!! Many of these bring back memories of my time in Normandy during the D-Day celebrations this summer. Talking to the veterans, American, British, Canadian, Belgian, and French (resistance) was THE highlight of our time there. In fact, on page 4, in the picture with Ralph is a Brit sitting in a wheelchair. I met him and his "driver" in St Mere Eglise. They are 100 and 89, respectively.

Frank Drewry , October 21, 2009

Thank you very much!

Dear Sir,

Thank you very much for your article and photo's. I'm glad Americans can read that a lot of Dutchmen have adopted graves of fallen American soldiers. I have also adopted several graves. By doing this I will hope to keep the memory alive of what your countrymen and great nation did for my parents and my people.

Kind regards,
Roel Manders
The Netherlands

Roel Manders , October 21, 2009

The British MedEvacs and the Danes MedEvacs

Dear Michael,

It would take some time, but the British MERLIN is about the best helicopter in the world today for medivac missions in areas like Afghanistan. It is a helicopter over powered for its size and can easily operate in hot-high climates. The British are now bringing up to speed some MERLIN medivac helicopter pilots and crews in California. The Danes had done them a favor and sold back some rescue MERLINs that they had bought. On one condition. That some of their pilots and crews could train with the British medivac MERLINs in California and on combat missions in Afghanistan. Because the Danes are probably the #3 NATO country that is pulling more of its' weight in Afghanistan (for what ever reason its soldiers volunteer or it in numbers and want to go to Afghanistan and fight). They plan to send a large MERLIN medivac unit to Afghanistan in the near future.

Jack E. Hammond

NOTE> The first MERLINs crews in Afghanistan discovered that the low sound level of that helicopter made it much more survivable than the CH-47 Chinook (the king of helicopters in Afghanistan, although as the British say, it can be detected from take off to combat LZ to back to base by the Taliban by its sound level).

.

Jack E. Hammond , October 22, 2009

Market Garden follow-on

Michael

thanks, a very emotional and moving piece. Having been to Nijmegen and seen the sites and war graves I know the impact it has.

For interest to others, when Market Garden failed and Holland was set to starve thoughout the winter, known as the "Hongerwinter", the Allies and Germans agreed a plan "operation Manna" for food drops in April and May to relieve the starvation in certain areas. Over 5000 flights were made through agreed corridors to drop food, some of the planes going in so low that they had to look up to see the Dutch people waving to them. It didn't stop the starvation, but it helped to relieve a very dire time for the Dutch.

Matt Baker , October 30, 2009

Thanks!

I am from Arnhem, my wife from Nijmegen. I sincerely hope one day the Iraqi and Afghani people can look back like I do and truly appreciate the sacrifice that was made. I'm sorry to have missed this year's ceremonies, but instead I spent the time vacationing for the first time with my wife and baby daughter. Maybe just carrying on with my life in happiness and liberty is the greatest compliment I can make to those who gave their lives.

I'll be at the Arnhem bridge though, I love these men and what they stand for.

Felix Drost , November 01, 2009

Thank you!!!

I wish Americans celebrated Memorial Day like the Dutch do! Thank you for your report. I read the whole thing from start to finish in one sitting. I could not take myself away from it. It was not too long! May God be with you and keep you safe along with all our troops in harms way!

Bryon , November 14, 2009

Ltc Cole

A pity that you were not at the ceremony for Ltc Cole (MoH) His monument is now very close to the spot he was shot.

Ad Moest , December 04, 2009

Superb report -- Uniformly excellent in every detail!

Thak you , Michael, for this report. It was particularly inspiring to note that so many young people seemed genuinely interested in the veterans and their stories. I was astonished at the re-enactment volunteers. There's no better way to teach the important lessons across the generations that these kinds of things. It seems a rare thing these days that there would be such an outpouring of appreciation -- indeed, affection -- for what those "oh-so-young men of the 101st did. I guess that their reputation and the level of appreciation is in proportion to the Dutch citizens realizing they were giving their all -- for them. It's nice to know they are still appreciated, 60 years later. The adoption of a cross by a Dutch family in the American Battle Monuments Cemetery is touching indeed.

Many thanks.

P. J. Hartwick , January 12, 2010

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