Go read David Ignatius' Slogging and Blogging Through Iraq. Here's the best bit, from a blogger just returned from Iraq:

I once read somewhere that, 'going into a combat zone is a one-way door since the person that leaves is not the same person that returns.' This new person returning is committed to being a better husband, father and friend. I have felt the pain of leaving all that I hold dear, and I will not take it for granted again

A great big Dead Armadillos shoutout to all our troops serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and thereabouts this holiday season:

Thank You!

(and Merry Christmas)  ¶ 10:50 AM