I would like to thank all you guys back home for your support. All of the Coasties stationed in Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait and patrolling in the NAG appreciate your letters and care packages. The US Coast Guard has been patrolling the North Arabian Gulf since 2003 and isn't going anywhere. We are protecting Iraqi waterways, assisting the local fisherman, training the Iraqi marines and showing the Iranians we aren't going to back down from them. As I finish up my 1-year deployment I would like to thank Sharon Ryan from Lowell. She has been sponsoring the Damage Control shop since last year. I really appreciate all she has done for us and my family. Mrs. Ryan sent a hand knitted blanket to my newborn baby Savannah. Her kindness as well as everyone else at America supports you is greatly appreciated. I will be back in Michigan in late June and July for Bay City Fourth of July Festival and vacationing in Boyne City. See you soon! ~~DC2 Jeff -------, USCG Patrol Boat Forces Southwest Asia, Bay City, Mich.