September 21, 2003

Greeting from the Horn of Africa. This is Brigadier General Mastin Robeson and today is Sunday 21 September. The time is 6:00 in the morning eastern standard time. We are all doing well out here. We remain engaged in Ethiopia , Kenya, Djibouti, Yemen, and Eritera; and we will establish contact in Sudan this week.

For those of you on the east coast, we are relieved to hear good news about your safety following Hurricane Isabel. We were very concerned about our loved ones, and our inability to be of help. It is hard to be here protecting freedom while our loved ones are under attack by the forces of nature. Thankfully, God was gracious. We look forward to happy homecomings with healthy families.

In spite of the hurricane, the planned Horn of Africa Family Day Picnic will go as scheduled. Our web site has all the details, but the short version is – this Saturday September 27th in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Come ready to enjoy food, drinks, pony rides, fellowship and more. I know it’s a long drive for many of you, but hope you come if you can. Lt Jeff Polson and GySgt Munoz at Camp Lejeune can also answer your questions and assist with directions if you are unable to reach the web site. A reminder, the web site can be found at www.cjtfhoa@centcom.mil. My wife Nancy looks forward to meeting all who can come.

Thank you for your continued wonderful support. Keep the e-mails and letters coming. We miss you and always look forward to hearing from you. Thanks for your prayers and God bless you.

The Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa Commander's message and information line is available toll free at 1-866-360-3775 or Camp Lejeune area 1-910-451-2222.