Greetings Task Force 47th CSH Soldiers and Families, I am humbled to be in the presence of such dedicated professionals and

loving dutiful families serving our Nation here in Iraq and at home. The last two months have seen tremendous change for the Medical Task Force in Iraq and I am happy to report that our Soldiers have performed magnificently. This is a time filled with change and uncertainty as the U.S. Government and the Government of Iraq work out the training missions and the Soldiers required to support the trainers and logistical support and contractors that might remain past 2011. Regardless of the mission, TF 47th CSH has responded with the professional compassion that you would expect of our Soldiers and/or battle buddies. I am sorry I cannot foresee the future and tell you definitively when we are coming home but I want you to know that our services have been invaluable. Your loved ones have saved the lives and preserved the health of multiple patients over the last two months and the healthcare services that only we provide will be required for the foreseeable future in Iraq. We have seen several injured patients and treated them all with professional dignity and respect ensuring they received the world-class healthcare they deserve. Both Alpha Company and the Bravo Company (FWD) are performing their missions magnificently. There are families who will never know that you and the care you provided made the crucial difference between life and death. On their behalf, I thank you for your professional competence. I want to extend my appreciation to all the PROFIS personnel who completed our capabilities both in regards to the CSH and our support capabilities in support of the Department of State medical mission. They have been consummate professionals and have been wonderful to work with and serve alongside. All of you, PROFIS and organic CSH personnel alike, should be proud of yourselves, our Soldier and our teammates. Back home it seems that all is well from the reports I have received. Shara is happy the kids are back in school as I am sure all those parents back in the States are. I am happy to hear that the end of the summer at JBLM didn't disappoint anyone. I know I was feeling homesick as the thermometer hit 125 degrees in Iraq and the high temperatures at JBLM were in the mid-80s. Taking the kids out in the boat on American Lake sounded pretty good from here - maybe even a BBQ at the lake No need to fret, we will be back next summer to ex-perience that wonderful JBLM summer I want to thank Suzanne McCrum, Trina Wilson, Patricia Chaudhry, Kelly Mahoney and Mary Belcher for their steadfast and loyal support to our families. We miss you and want you to know that we are forever in-debted to you for your indomitable spirit and your dedication to the Families of the 47th CSH. We are sorry to hear that Michelle Stine had to relocate the Family to Kettle Falls, Wa. She will be sorely missed. She was a fixture in the FRG for many years at the 47th. We pray for the best for their family and for Truman's safe travels as he continues to support our Nation. To the military team at JBLM- MAJ Boyd, MSG Silvas, CPT Chaudhry, and 1SG Scott - Thanks for the loyal support to the team. I want you to know that you are performing a critical mission for both the deployed and home team. I thank you for all you do every day! In your service, COL Scott Avery America's CSH - Dedicated to Life!