"I just wanted to send you a quick email to thank you for helping us help the people of Afghanistan.
We had a lot of fun giving the kids the beanie babies, and they sure enjoyed them, too.
You obviously
realize that it is by helping the children that we will ultimately help these folks make their country safe and democratic
(in their own model), and get us out of here (except maybe to visit as tourists). Woe be to all of us if any of our kids or
grandkids should ever have to come over here in a role similar to one that myself and the others here are on for 16 months
of irreplaceable time in our lives.
I have sent a few pictures of some of the kids we are attempting
to help with school supplies, schools, wells, bridges, clinics, and other infrastructure. Only when they know the four universal
freedoms (freedom to worship as they see fit, freedom of expression, freedom from want, and freedom from fear) will the world
be a better place, and will we in our wonderful country be truly safe. Happy people don't join the Taliban or Al Qaeda."
--
Sean C. Gustafson
Major, Engineers, US Army
