This success is what I wish that everyone could see. It is not nearly as enticing as violence, which leads in the media, but it is the real story here in Iraq. I just hope that you spread the word of what the real story is here in Iraq, and that is that the Iraqi army and police are doing a tremendous job, and it is not without the hard work and dedication of our soldiers. Our soldiers are dedicated to the mission and their duty. They understand that the harder they work now the more likely they will not have to come back to Iraq in years to come.

It is for these reasons and this success that we are thankful. It is also something for you to be thankful for during this holiday season. Please continue to support our troops, and from here in Mosul, Iraq, and on behalf of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, we wish you all a happy holiday season and look forward to a safe return in the coming weeks.

I would also like to extend my seasonal greetings and love to my family and friends. I also extend those wishes to all of my troopers' families. I wish my immediate family, Patti and Ken Johnson, Tom and Barbara Bowers and Kat and Paul Connerty happy holidays, as well. I would especially like to thank my wife, Lyza, for all her love and support, for this is our fourth holiday season to be apart since 2002.

Merry Christmas, America,

Capt. Hunter Bowers

Lightning Troop, 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment

(In the spirit of Christmas, Chuck is giving away a free chapter of his current New York Times best-seller, "Black Belt Patriotism." To obtain yours, go to www.ChuckNorrisOffer.com.)