A Marine writes to his mother

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Terry C. "Chip" Waters is with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and is returning home. His mother Grace Houle, who works at SlotWorld, gathered donations for his unit and mailed them out last month.

Houle heard from her son when he was leaving, but not again until she received this e-mail Monday.

Yes, the ship I am on is going to dock in San Diego. Unfortunately I will be getting off before then and going straight to base. We appreciate all the support. It means so much not to be persecuted for doing what is right.

At a time like this, we need the support so we don't feel like it was all for nothing.

I will be taking about three weeks off for travel so I can visit everyone. I will start in the south and work my way north.

Thank you very much for the care packages even though I haven't received them yet. War is an ugly thing, but sometimes it is necessary to keep ugly people from doing harm to others.

Saddam was a very greedy and evil man. If you could see the way he treated the people of this country, you would fall to your knees and sob wondering what makes a man do this to the people who are supposed to trust him for their safety.

I have to say that I was terribly disturbed and angry with this man. I am still trying to sort my feelings out. It is a difficult thing to endure. I will manage, though.

Do not worry for me, know that if I am to perish, I will be going to a better place, so you should be able to handle it. We have been preparing for it for a long time now. You should be used to me not being around by now. At any rate, I hope you're keeping busy and out of trouble. Let everyone know that I said hello.

Chip

Editor's Note: This is one in an occasional series of letters from troops in Iraq. Photographs and letters home may be e-mailed to: editor@nevadaappeal.com. They can also be dropped off at 580 Mallory Way; or mailed to P.O. Box 2288, Carson City, NV 89702.