Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Jenny Galla, Jersey City, NJ — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 22:19:25 GMT

I'm not sure who writes Matt's questions but i feel they were very intrusive and insensitive. This navy seal and others put their lives on the line for the American people there is no need to ask obvious questions such as, "Do you have survivor’s guilt” and “Do you think about that vote every single day of your life". These questions are obviously for effect but I think they may upset the person who did put his life on the line and are unnecessary. Perhaps we can just hear his story and say thank you.

I will not speak for the entire nation but I feel this is one of the reasons why I am sick of the media because they prey on other people’s pain … now I guess it’s celebrities and the military.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Cindy, California — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 22:29:37 GMT

As a Mother of a Navy Seal I was glad to see how this story was presented on the Today Show. I thought Matt did an excellant job interviewing Marcus. He asked tough questions without pushing to much. I am buying the book for my husband for Fathers day. I will probably not read the book as it will be to emotional for me. It sounds like Marcus is moving on and I am glad to hear that. I know those events will never be gone from his mind but hopeful he can get some peace and know that most Americans thank him for his service.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Brent Slack, Salt Lake City, Utah — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 00:08:50 GMT

The Navy Seals are the best of the best. My heart goes out to the families of those Navy Seal and Special Force soldiers that died during this attack. Marcus Luttrell is a hero as are his team.

War is bad, but sometimes you have situations where all you can do is send our soldiers to fight for freedoms lost.

What frustrates me the most is the politics and public opinions that don't allow our Armed Services to do the job they have been trained to do. Just as in Vietnam, we have a situation where this Navy Seal Team has to question their common sense and training sense because someone will tell the story of two herders that were killed for no reason and our soldiers must face charges of murder. What a tragedy to see the reality of politics and public opinion in a war.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

James Trent, Ames, Iowa — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:33:04 GMT

Could this blog entry be any more fawning and servile in tone? The sheer number of positive descriptors used ramps the adulation (and credibility) level of this posting to what might be expected from a Paris Hilton fan describing his/her idol. I have not read the book, only the posted excerpt. Perhaps more is needed to form an emotional "bond" with those detailed in this story as producer Elliot Walker so clearly has done. Because the excerpt I read left me with a distinct sense of xenophobia on the part of Luttrell. Worse, was a sort of pompous, arrogant conviction of righteous that ironically is common to terrorists as well. With Luttrell compelled to repeatedly (and this just in the excerpt!) tell us of any and every possible link between his designated targets and 9/11, one must wonder at his obvious belief we need to be "sold" on what bad guys he was after. Or is it just more of his need to point out SEALS (such as he, the "One"!) only take on the uber villians that are to much for the rest of our military service members to handle. Yes, he survived a mission gone bad, but that does not a hero make. He faced death for his nation, friends, prestige and a paycheck. The people of Sabray faced death for nothing more than a wounded stranger. THAT is the sort of noble, courageous action the media should label as heroism. But I guess poor little farming families don't fit our stereotype as nicely as the big, tough super-soldier from Texas.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Maximus — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:47:44 GMT

Mr.Luttrell was the most riveting interview I have ever seen.He is real and it shows,his book deserves a movie to be made from it and all of the accolades that follow.He exemplifies every quality of the military and then some.His courage and honor is an inspiration to me and should be to every American.I salute you and thankyou Mr.Luttrell godbless you and all the men and women serving.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Sandra Brown, Ruston, Louisiana — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 03:11:14 GMT

I had the honor of meeting Marcus at my son's wedding in September, 2006. I had meet a few of my
son's friends but not Marcus and Morgan. I could not
tell them apart but both of them were special.At the
Rehersal dinner my son had both of them come up to be
recognized. I think Marcus was my son's swimming buddy at Seal Training in Coronado. I never knew the whole story and speechless when I found out that he
was on the Today show, I sure hate missing that. I have pictures of both Marcus and Morgan from the wedding. My God bless and keep Morgan and him safe but most of all, when Marcus was "missing in action,
my son went to be with Morgan and his mother during
this difficult time. Being a Seal Mom is hard but, I thank God every day that my son came back when so many did not. My son, who was a graduate of the USNA
in 2000, is in the process of getting out and moving
to New York to pursue his education. My heart goes out to all the Seal Moms , especially, Marcus and Morgans Mom.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Charlene Kazan, Mandeville, Louisiana — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:01:53 GMT

I am a family member of one of the fallen SEALS, and I was riveted by Officer Luttrell's story. As we approach the two year anniversary of this terrible tragedy, I was heartened to see that the story of these heroes' sacrifice will not be forgotten. Also, I hope this story acts as a reminder to us all of the other service men and women who remain at war and continue to make similar sacrifices every day.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

William Rowland, Fremont, Ca. — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 06:11:55 GMT

If we could just be sure that it is all worth the lives we have had to sacrifice....

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

roger flemens — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 10:09:20 GMT

In my personal opinions,the WHOLE American public should be made to read this young warriors story. Our country was founded on the blood of our warriors,prepared to fight,and die,if necessary for our freedom.THEN these people we have here that are enjoying their freedom because of the blood spilled,and the sacrifices our fighting men have made,might possibly sit up and take notice and give thanks for them.But-they take these unknown warriors for granted,gripe,and down our government for things they are not even really capable of discussing.Notice ,though ,in a time of war,or any major crises,who is on the front lines whining the loudest--not our fighting men--only their critics. God Bless the Navy Seals,all our SF personnel,and all the other fighting men behind the scenes who live,and die in obscure places for the American people and ALK OUR ways of life.Don't thank us--but don't ostracise us for keeping you free,and allowing you to walk the streets of freedom and most of all,anytime you walk outside and fail to hear a bomb,a jet on a bombing run,or the sounds of automatic weapons fire--remember-
a man died somewhere in this world ---just so you could have that freedom!And know what?? You never even knew his name--so you could say a prayer for him,and thank him for the supreme sacrifice!But
always remember-a warrior always stands alone-
his GOD-his weapons-and his willingness to die
for the freedome he believes in--even for those of you who don't know him,and appreciate him.Those of you who have taken time to read this,well,look
up and give a second of thanks to the Supreme Architect for the ability to do so.By the way-God bless you all.So mote it be

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Kathy Riismandel, Columbia, Maryland — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 11:49:16 GMT

I have met both the Luttrell SEALS. They are both brave, honorable men. Marcus is someone this world needs and we are so blessed that he is still with us. Morgan is still serving our country and is in my prayers daily. Thank you for your sacrifices.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

George Edmunds — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:14:18 GMT

These guys are heroes of the highest order! Not only do they put themselves in harms way on a daily basis but have the morals and integrity to do the right thing. I am quite sure that if the roles had been reversed and the taliban had been the ones who had to decide to kill or not kill the goat herders, there would not have been any kind of vote. The only sound would have been the sound of AK-47 rifles peppering them and probably their goats as well. Kudos to these guys who do what they do under conditions that therest of us can not even imagine.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Domenick Long Island — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:27:09 GMT

Marcus Luttrell didnt become a bleeping liberal by letting goat herders go...he became A CHRISTIAN...It is nice to know that he saw God even though he lost his friends....perhaps if more Muslims and Neo Cons became liberal..there would be no need to butcher goat herders in their fields or office workers in NYC...where I was almost killed by Osama

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Susan Domizi — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:47:01 GMT

What a wonderfully insiteful piece by Mr. Walker.
This is an incredibly complicated story, ...no...reality. Perhaps we all should shoulder the burden of a bit of "survivor guilt". After all, -here we are, "safe and sound", while these extraordinary soldiers give so much to make that possible.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Lionel Dawson, Brigdetown, Barbados, West Indies — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 13:00:10 GMT

I admired your bravery and I am sorry for the lost of your team members. I am a big fan of the Navy Seals and the Special Forces Unit. I am in full support of the USA's efforts in Afghanistan and Baghdad. May the fight always be in memory of the fallen and democracy.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Colleen OGrady, Chicopee, Massachusetts — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:04:00 GMT

I was touched by this story and thought about Marcus all day yesterday after watching his response to Matt's question and he replied that he died on the mountain. To know that he has goals and dreams to attain after that loss, to climb back up after that defeat, he is a true seal and his comrades are his team watching over him. So glad to hear of his twin (missed that part of the story because I was already late for work!) and your insight into his relationship with him and how that will give him something, also, to hold onto. I feel so badly for these men who are "losing themselves" in the war while I am here being a US citizen who gets to "enjoy" the freedom and they do not. No thanks would ever be enough. Thanks Marcus for sharing your story and I will definately look for a copy soon.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

melissa randolph 1684 hobelman dr arnold,mo.63010 — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:26:12 GMT

My heart goes out to this young man & what he is dealing with,I wish I could just give him a great big hug and say thank you & know you are never alone, God is always there.He wonders why he's alive.It was God's plan & the reason is for him to tell his story.Americans look at this War for Freedom but not our Government they have a different reason.And it's to protect the men that killed these soldiers..and that saddens me..I love you Marcus and all the 1000's that are out there fights I pray & cry for you all everyday..This War hurts me so bad to see so much angry,hate in how these people hate us.Matt done a wonderful interview & I could tell this got to him alot,you have a good heart Matt. Thanks again Marcus and God Bless.Melissa Randolph

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Ex-wife of a SEAL, Upstate NY — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 15:47:04 GMT

Picking up the book as soon as possible.
THANK YOU

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

T Meadows, Meridian, MS — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 17:13:30 GMT

Thanks for bringing us this story. Thanks to Marcus Luttrell for telling his story and that of so many brave Americans who gave or put their lives on the line for all of us. He risks criticism for coming forth with this story mainly because he is the sole survivor. I hope he will hang tough, but then he is a Navy SEAL. Congress should award the Medal of Honor to Lt. Murphy, maybe this is something Republicans & Democrats can agree on and build from there. The American people need to hear these stories. These brave Americans are dying for us. We are at war and these stories are far more important than Paris Hilton, Brittany Speer, Anna Nicole or the latest bimbette going to rehab.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

T E Meadows, Meridian, MS — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 17:51:16 GMT

Thank for airing this story and thanks to Marcus Luttrell for writing this book and telling us the stories of these brave Americans who gave their lives or put their lives on the line for us. Clearly he was not comfortable under the bright lights and cameras. He put himself at risk of critism as the only survivor for telling us his story. I hope he will hang tough. We need to hear these stories and others like them. These brave Americans are sacrificing everything for us. I hope Congress will come together and agree on something by giving Lt. Murphy the Medal of Honor for courage over and above the call of duty and giving himself to save his team. The fact that Marcus did survive means that sacrifice and those of the others was not in vain. We are at war, people are dying and making extreme sacrifices for us. This is the real news. This story should not be buried under the likes of Paris Hilton, Brittany Speers, Lindsey Lohan and the latest bimpette in rehab.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Domenick Long Island — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 21:23:05 GMT

Marcus did not become a Liberal that day he decided to kill goat herders..he became a Christian

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Holly Schadt, Tucson, AZ — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 23:22:17 GMT

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for having Marcus as a guest on the Today show. I watched the interview and was in tears. Our country needs to know what our servicemen and women face each day, but also how extremely BRAVE and committed they are to their jobs and our country. Thank you, again.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

L. Schwartz — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:30:17 GMT

Although I did not know his name, I remember the day Marcus and his comrades went missing. At the time I too had a son in Afghanistan. The reports were grim and my mind immediately thought of the mothers of these young men. When Matt asked his final question in the interview, I cringed. Marcus' answer was touching and honest: "Sir, I too died on that mountain that day, Sir..." I live in a small Texas town and had to get the clerk to retrieve the book from the back as they had not put it on the shelf. My thoughts and prayers are with Marcus and his family.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Patti McCurdy, Hamilton OH — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 13:25:13 GMT

God bless Marcus and all the other brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day so that we don't have to. I am reading his book right now, but have to stop to cry frequently. The story of a real patriot.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Cathy, Friendsville, Maryland — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 16:02:57 GMT

I am proud of Marcus and all the service men and women fighting to keep me and all Americans free. I'm going to head out and buy his book, it's got "must read" appeal.
"Thank you" and "God Bless"

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

D GASSOFF, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 16:13:06 GMT

HI MARCUS. WE MET IN CORONADO AT THE FUNERAL OF MARC LEE. I GOT YOUR BOOK AND AM SENDING IT TO IRAQ TO MY SON. YOU ALSO KNOW HIM.WHEN HE COMES HOME, MAYBE YOU CAN SIGN IT FOR HIM. YOUR NOT ALONE, AND NEVER CAN BE.
TEAM GUYS ARE ALWAYS TEAM GUYS.I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO READING. WHATEVER COMES NEXT, YOU'LL TAKE WITH YOU -ALL OF LIFE'S BLESSINGS. BE HAPPY. SOME DAYS, ITS OK NOT TO THINK TO HARD. HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN IN COR.
YOU WORKED SO HARD IN BUDS. THAT YOU WILL HAVE FOREVER. HEAL. LOVE, MRS. GASSOFF

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Christine Thomas, League City TX, via Corbett, OR — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 16:16:41 GMT

Our family's hero, Jeffrey Lucas, was killed in the helicopter rescue attempt. Hearing the story from Marcus is important to us. We have no interest in any controversy, just want Marcus to know that our family prays for him. Jeff was a SEAL to his bones and risked his life many times for his country and his Team. I'm sure it makes him happy to know that Marcus survived. We want only the best for this young man and pray that there will be peace in his heart and healing in his soul. Thank you for telling the story Marcus.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Jaime, WPB, FL. — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 17:11:28 GMT

This book looks awesome. I read the excerpts...I'm gonna go buy it. I'm not a religious person, but to Marcus, all the other Armed Forces and their family- I have the upmost respect for you, and I wish you all peace and happiness.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Ken, Tucson, Az. — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 19:17:16 GMT

Bravo to James Trent for his earlier comments of June 12. These people are nothing but highly trained and paid asassins hired by the U.S. government, most of whom will probably hire on with Blackwater for even higher pay once they leave the military. To glorify them is wrong, wrong,wrong. ALL life lost during battle is equally sad and wasteful. The TRUE heroes are those who "fight" for peace with words, not guns.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Roberta Hironaka, Honolulu, HI — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 21:08:05 GMT

Marcus, thank you for the book. It will give my granddaughters, Jasmine and Sasha Healy, whose dad was killed in the helicopter crash in Afghanistan, a treasured memory of the brave SEAL team...it just bring tears to my eyes. How proud the girls are of the SEAL teams everywhere and God bless our men and women in the Armed Forces.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Chris, Imperial Beach, CA — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 03:31:35 GMT

This message is in response to Mr. James Trent from Ames, Iowa.
Sir, you are deluded beyond words. The so called, "fawning and servile tone" found herein is nothing short of pure patriotic appreciation and thankfulness translated into words. You do realize that you just likened these fine Americans to Paris Hilton fans. Well sir, you are the sensationalist. You are one of the poor, weak minded sheep.
Warriors like Marcus are (to quote Dave Grossman in On Combat) "sheepdogs that lives to protect the flock and confront the wolf." The sheepdog "looks a lot like the wolf. He has fangs and the capacity for violence. The difference, though, is that the sheepdog must not, can not and will not ever harm the sheep...
Still, the sheepdog disturbs the sheep. He is a constant reminder that there are wolves in the land. They would prefer that he didn't tell them where to go, or give them traffic tickets, or stand at the ready in our airports in camouflage fatigues holding an M-16. The sheep would much rather have the sheepdog cash in his fangs, spray paint himself white, and go, "Baa."
Sir, you hates it when the sheepdogs come around because they make you feel uncomfortable. They are a little bit rough and unpolished and they don't fit in to your cozy and protected world. However, it's sheep like you that scream for the sheepdogs like Marcus when the wolves come in for the kill.
How unfortunate for you. Why don’t people like you feel some sort of conviction to bring to justice those who killed thousands of your countrymen in a single day? Marcus doesn’t display what you call a “pompous, arrogant conviction of righteousness”. What he displays is a deep, aching need for justice. His is a pure conviction to defend those who couldn’t then and like you, cannot now defend themselves.
You mention how similar that conviction of righteousness is to terrorists. Well, the difference is that they came to kill you sir – and your family, your precious little ones that you lovingly kiss goodnight.
Marcus, Mike, Danny and Matt spared little children just like yours by letting them go, knowing that they would probably compromise them – and they did. Do you think terrorists would do that? Do you think that they would spare your flock? The answer is absolutely not!
To quote Grossman again, after September 11th, “most of the sheep, that is, most citizens in America said, "Thank God I wasn't on one of those planes." The sheepdogs, the warriors, said, "Dear God, I wish I could have been on one of those planes. Maybe I could have made a difference." When you are truly transformed into a warrior and have truly invested yourself into warriorhood, you want to be there. You want to be able to make a difference. “ That sir is why you will never understand a man like Marcus.
It's unfortunate that you haven't read the book. If you had, you would learn about the true price of freedom. A price that Danny, Matt and Mike paid on that mountain and that Dan, Shane, James, Erik, Jeff and others gladly payed by going in to save them. You see, those men with families, lovers and friends would have gone anyway - even if they knew they were going to die to try to save their friends. They would not agree with what you say, but you can bet your life that part of the reason for their sacrifice is to defend the very freedom that entitles you to your opinion.
I feel sorry for you. You are a pitiful, deluded person who wraps himself in the blanket of comfort every night as you mock to that which you know nothing about.
Marcus would gladly die right now to bring back his SEAL and Nightstalker friends and family.
Marcus is a special breed of man. He gives tremendous credit to the people of Sabray and he thanks them in his own way everyday. Those people are heroes in his eyes! Remember, Marcus never called himself a hero. The American people did. Oh, and by the way, Marcus is from a poor little farming family too.
Please read the book before you open your mouth again and make a tremendous fool of yourself.
"Baa" to you sir
-Chris from I.B.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Kim, Huntington, WV — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 06:31:47 GMT

Marcus Luttrell and his team stood up for everything that is right for our country. I read this book in less than a day and it gave me a new light to the job that our troops are doing in that region. It makes you think and question what you read and hear every day in the media. I support the troops and they are all HEROS especially those that give the ultimate sacrifice.
I wish Mr. Luttrell the best of luck with medical school as it should be a simple task compared to what he has already gone through.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Stacey, Humble, TX — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 18:36:41 GMT

I attended college with Marcus and Morgan at Sam Houston in Huntsville, TX and I am so very thankful to see this video and know that he is home safe! Marcus if you get the chance to read this, we are all so proud of you.
God Bless,
Stacey

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Troy Pusateri, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 19:30:05 GMT

I know Marcus, and Morgan, as well as I did Matt Axelson, and Mike Murphy. All of you, I want to personally say Thanx, and I have enjoyed every minute being in your presense as friends, and co-workers. Marcus, your interview was a hard one for me to watch, but it was great the way you told your story and managed to compose yourself. Hoo-Yah....Remember, freedom isn't free....It provided by honorable couragous men like ourselves.....Take care bro, good luck in civilian life, and give Morgan my best....TROY PUSATERI BUD/S 236, ST-1.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Emerson B. Brady, Marietta, Ohio — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 10:10:20 GMT

To: Chris, from Imperial Beach,Ca.

Thank you, sir, for speaking for me. As a former US Serviceman, retired due to a service incurred disability, my words to Mr. Trent, (and Ken, from Tuscon, Ariz.) might not have been as light as yours.
I will say this, however, "Ken, and Mr. Trent, someone of a higher caliber and character than you will always step forward and go through Hell so that you and I will not have to."

Emerson B. Brady

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Rene E. Pena — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:49:10 GMT

I just finished reading this honorable book. It saddened me to read that these young men made a decision that ultimately placed them in harms way BECAUSE they were worried that the NEWS MEDIA would present them to the world as "MURDERS". Combat is ugly and the American public needs not to side with the news media. Our boys in Viet Nam went through similar public opinion again because of how the new presented the stories. No one has the right to judge...especially if they have not experianced combat first hand (on a daily basis for 365 days minimum)and sensed the fear, the loss and the pain. Marcus is an extremely strong, brave young man and I feel for his losses but I also know that he is in God's grace.

Why "The Lone Survivor" is not alone

Keith Hansen, Reston, VA — Sun, 03 May 2009 15:40:12 GMT

Chris, from Imperial Beach...... Dittos. Well, well put. Nuff said. Marcus....I look forward to meeting you and to our handshake. May GOD continue to bless you & your family. Deep heartfelt thanks!!!!