Roy Hallums Gives New Hope to Hostage FamiliesIn November 2006 Joshua Munns, Jonathon Cote, John Young, Bert Nussbaumer, and Paul Reuben were taken hostage near Basra by a group calling itself "The Islamic Mujahedeen Battalion", a group feared to have links to the Iranian goverment. The five worked for the Crescent Security Group, a private firm which guarded civilian convoys.
In January a video was released showing the hostages alive. The five have now been missing 277 days.
Yesterday Roy Hallums, who was held hostage in Iraq for nearly two years, talked in a conference call to four of the families. The fact that Roy was held for so long and yet survived the ordeal gives hope that these men are still alive.
"A lot of us were reassured by talking with him," said Jackie Stewart, 44, of Brush Prairie, who is the mother of one of the hostages, Joshua Munns, 24, of Redding, Calif. "Roy has been there, and he got out. He's a nice man. We felt less alone and a lot better after talking to him."
The families are working to raise money to support their sons, husbands and brothers when they are released. Hallums told them to go ahead if that makes them feel better, but he said the U.S. government's efforts are key.
He was found, he said, because U.S. agents were able to capture an Iraqi who knew where he was being held....
He said the families of the captured contractors should speak publicly as they wish about the hostages, but only in generalities.
"No amount of cheers on TV is going to get them free," he said. "But the families want to do something, and if they want to, if it makes them feel better, then go ahead and do it. Just don't do anything that is going to hurt the situation."
He wishes the FBI, CIA and state department would tell the families more of what is going on in efforts to free hostages.
He said he trusts the government, which insists on working in secret. He now works as a consultant on terrorism. This week, he was at Fort Lewis, advising troops getting ready to deploy to Iraq.
As always we pray for their safety and demand their immediate and unconditional release.
Friends and families of the hostages have set up several websites on their behalf.
Former Hostage Roy Hallums Speaks to HS StudentsRoy Hallums lectured about his captivity and rescue in Iraq to students at his local high school on Wednesday. Suddenly I find myself in envy of some eleventh graders.
Via Pamela Perkins at Commercialappeal.com: Roy Hallums left students and teachers at St. Benedict at Auburndale High School in Cordova dumbfounded Wednesday. If for no other reason than that he was actually there.
The Cordova resident was held hostage in Iraq for 311 days -- from November 2004 until U.S. soldiers rescued him in September 2005.
He was at St. Benedict to talk about the ordeal in his first speech to a school group. Hallums usually speaks at law enforcement training workshops around the country…
...St. Benedict teacher Eric Wells had invited Hallums to speak to his modern history class. After word spread around the school, the speech was moved to the auditorium.
"I think it's really important for them to see the realities of what's going on a half a world away," Wells said. "That there's more than just numbers and news stories."
For many students, Hallums' presentation was surreal.
"I couldn't believe it," said 11th-grader Olivia Broyles. "He made you seem like you were there like him."
Leslie Posey, also in the 11th grade, found it hard to imagine what Hallums went through. "I can't get that in my head," she said.
I was thinking many more young HS and college students could benefit from Roy’s speech. It’s quite a bit different than what many of them will be hearing about the terrorists in other places.
more...
Roy Hallums’ Escape Part IIThe second part of Deborah Hastings’ story on Roy’s rescue.
NC Times: EDITOR'S NOTE: The ransom demands had stopped, and the trail had gone cold. More than 10 months after U.S. contractor Roy Hallums was abducted in Iraq, a local man being interrogated by coalition soldiers claimed to know where the American was being held. This is the second part of a two-part AP serial narrative. This story is based on hours of interviews with Roy Hallums, Susan Hallums and Dan O'Shea, and their recollections of Roy Hallums' kidnapping in Iraq.
The coalition soldiers didn't know it, but this man they'd hauled in for questioning was about to deliver a bombshell.
Someone had fingered him as part of an extended family of kidnappers whose relatives abducted Iraqis and foreigners ---- it made no difference. The common denominator was money.
The interrogators were only five minutes into it when the man, trying to jump-start a plea for leniency, blurted the name of an American contractor who had been missing for most of a year and given up for dead.
"I know where Roy Hallums is," he said.
He knew about the house. He knew about the concrete prison under the backyard storage shed. He knew about the freezer covering the hatch in the floor.
The coalition soldiers jumped. In less than hour, they assembled a rescue detail and rolled, fully armed, charging in helicopters toward a barren farm in the Triangle of Death.
Two Part Series on Roy HallumsDeborah Hastings has written a two part series on Roy Hallums. For those of you who may be new to The Jawa Report, Rusty and TJR started following Roy’s story from the beginning.
NC Times:EDITOR'S NOTE -- The Iraqi kidnappers threatened American contractor Roy Hallums with death. Then they videotaped him begging for help. It was all in their script. But could anyone save his life? This is the first part of a two-part serial narrative.
It was an ordinary Monday afternoon. As ordinary as a day can be in Baghdad.
Roy Hallums was in his second-floor office, sitting at his desk, bent over his computer keyboard. Even in a well-to-do neighborhood, in a fortified complex with armed guards, he was used to hearing the sounds of war.
But this was the first time he'd heard them coming up the stairs.
Shooting. Yelling. Pounding feet. Hallums stood, waiting for whatever it was to burst through the door. Four men slammed in, balaclavas covering their heads, guns pointed. In heavily accented English they said: Come with us or we'll kill you…
…November 1, 2004, the day of his kidnapping. A single event from which would be constructed a triangle of anguished isolation: One side was his. Another belonged to his family living in the suburbs of America, begging for help and feeling ignored…
...EDITOR'S NOTE -- This story is based on hours of interviews with Roy Hallums, Susan Hallums and Dan O'Shea, and their recollections of Roy Hallums' kidnapping in Iraq.
Kidnapped Americans in Iraq
Since May 2003, at least 24 Americans have been kidnapped in Iraq. Eighteen are dead or missing.
To give you an idea of what Roy’s story means to us here at The Jawa Report I’ll just quote Rusty on the day we learned Roy was rescued.
Today is one of the happiest days of my life. I'm literally crying.
It was like Christmas only better, more like an Easter. I still have my Free Roy magnets up. I’m quite proud of those.
In addition to the Americans who were held, murderer or are still missing, the number of Iraqi’s who have suffered this staggering, I have no idea how many. Let’s remember we are in Iraq for them as well. They are kidnapped and murdered every day.
Posted by: Frank Hunter at December 24, 2006 05:54 PM (JGiPv)
3
KOSCIELSKI’S
2926 Chicago Ave, S.
Minneapolis, Minn.
55407
612-827-3832
WWW.SAVE5.NET
Press release: December 28, 2006
Re: Paul Reuben Held Hostage: www.save5.net
Mark’s conversations and e-mails with Paul’s past team members and friends reveal that they believe that Paul and the other captives are still alive. Neither the U.S. State Department nor Crescent Security has done much to resolve this hostage situation.
Mark intends to go to Iraq and meet up with his contacts to try to make contact with the 5 missing people and obtain their release.
This year’s profits from the sale of his Murderapolis T-Shirts will go toward meeting the ransom demand. It is hoped that other businesses will help in selling the T-Shirts.
We hope to trun something bad “Murderapolis†in to something good.
Press conference on December 28, 2006, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
@2926 Chicago Ave S.
Minneapolis Mn
612-827-3832
We will release more info then.
Cc: ALL NEWS OUTLETS
Posted by: Mark Koscielski at December 25, 2006 12:04 AM (Qclmt)
Former Hostage Family Thanks Readers and Friends
I've received a couple of nice e-mails the past couple of days from Carrie Hallums Cooper and Susan Hallums. They both express their deepest gratitude for all of your efforts at keeping Roy's name in the forefront of our nation's collective conscience. Thank you one and all for helping spread the word!
After 60 Minutes aired the interview with the former hostage on Monday, you'll be happy to know that President Bush telephoned Roy to wish him his best. We have been quite critical of State Department policy regarding hostages on this website, and are grateful to learn that much more goes on behind the scenes to free our hostages than is publicly aknowledged.
Roy is aware of what you, the readers, did for him during his long ordeal and his family has promised to pass on our best wishes to him.
Last, here is a picture sent to me by Susan Hallums of the family finally reunited. God Bless America!
more...
Hostage Forced to Bash Bush
Roy Hallums will be on 60 Minutes this Sunday. Here is some of what he says in the interview, from a CBS Press release (thanks to Tall Glass of Milk):
I didn't like the videos going out," says Hallums, "because I knew my family would probably see them and I hated for my daughters to see me in that situation," he tells Stahl.
His captors also sought his family's telephone numbers to ask for a ransom, says Hallums, putting a pistol barrel in his mouth and threatening to kill him. "I knew if I gave them the number, they would call them and ask for money…and I didn't want [my family] to deal with a call like that."
Hallums was kept in a crawlspace below a farmhouse for most of the 10 months, a space he estimates at 9 feet by 11 feet and just over 4 feet high. At times there were several other hostages. "Most at any time is about nine people....You've got nine people and their breath and humidity, just living with nine people you don't know," recalls Hallums. He was blindfolded and bound the entire time.
And this from the NY Post, from the same interview (thanks to lawhawk):
A civilian contractor who was kept in a stifling crawl space by his Iraqi abductors for more than 10 months was beaten before being forced to make videos slamming President Bush for being indifferent to hostages, he says in his first interview since his rescue.
You will recall that Susan Hallums had said that the Bush-bashing didn't seem like Roy at all. His family always believed Roy had been forced to make those statements.
2
Very funny. Anyway, You don't need Einstein to figure out that roy was forced to bash Bush. The same thing happened to Douglas Wood. If a terrorist tells you to either bash Bush or die, you will naturally bash Bush.
Posted by: George at September 23, 2005 01:21 PM (hrpbg)
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Fabrizio Quattrocchi didn't. Of course, he's not alive anymore either. But that man had steel ones.
Posted by: Oyster at September 23, 2005 02:35 PM (fl6E1)
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Yes Bluto, that's EXACTLY what it means; the terrorists, the worldwide media, the dhimmicratic party, and the world socialist/communist movement are all on the same sheet of music.
Posted by: Improbulus Maximus at September 23, 2005 02:58 PM (0yYS2)
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Over half of America calls Bush on his blunders, no guns needed.
6
Thats the only way they,ll let him on 60 minutes TICK TICK TICK TICK TICK KABOOM
Posted by: sandpiper at September 23, 2005 08:47 PM (2cLBb)
7
Over half of America? Gee, who elected him then? Oh, that's right, it was the JOOOOOOOoooooOOOooooOOOOOOOOooooozzzzz! Liberals are just stupid fucktards who should be killed to prevent them from further contaminating the gene pool with their diseased DNA.
Posted by: Improbulus Maximus at September 23, 2005 08:54 PM (0yYS2)
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Join Kooky Klanrooster Impy and chomp down on da Gubbamint cheese pie.
9
Who allowed the piece shit Downing Street Moron back on this blog? Thought we got rid of that America hating faggot.
Posted by: greyrooster at September 24, 2005 09:02 AM (jwCcw)
10
Mr. Hallum's story really resonates for me at the moment.I'm trying to imagine being in a crawl space like he was.It's particularly vivid at the moment since there are people on all fours slithering around our crawl space to fix the mold problems we've been having. They tried to start a couple of days ago but were confronted by HUGE spiders, some the size of your fist so they had to bomb the space first and have now returned. Unlike Mr.Hallums, they take lunch breaks and are paid 25.00 an hour -- not enough to lure me under there.
I sure hope they get to see his story.
As for bashing ol' Bush, he's become inured to whatever anyone can dish out. Bet he reads Lincoln biographies to maintain.
Posted by: dymphna at September 24, 2005 03:02 PM (H0GVm)
11
If a re-election was held tomorrow. George Bush would again be elected. The leftist dogs make a lot of noise, but thats all.
Posted by: greyrooster at September 25, 2005 12:37 PM (jwCcw)
Roy Hallums Rescue VideoShaun at Bareknucckle Politics has it. Notice the terrible conditions 'Roy was kept in, how happy he seems, and listen at the end as he describes his hostage takers beating him so that he would cry during the earlier hostage video.
Posted by: Oyster at September 19, 2005 01:27 PM (fl6E1)
2
Yep, Michael Moore, your "minutemen" at work in Iraq. If there was any justice in the World, Michael Moore should be imprisoned for a year in that hellhole Roy Hallums was rescued from. I'll bet old Michael would be a few pounds lighter and a hell of a lot smarter.
Posted by: jesusland joe at September 19, 2005 02:05 PM (rUyw4)
3
JJ: Who're you kidding with the "smarter" comment? ;-) Moore's brain rolls aound in his head like a BB in a boxcar.
Posted by: Oyster at September 19, 2005 05:14 PM (YudAC)
Roy Hallums Home, Rescue Video ReleasedRoy Hallums, the American hostage held in Iraq since November and who's cause was covered extensively at this website, is back in the U.S.
Additionally, the U.S. military has released a video of the rescue operation that led to his release. I will post the video and images from it as soon as I have it. Please e-mail me if you have the video. The video is described below.
Above: A photo taken by Sgt. Jason Mikeworth MNF-I PAO (by way of of DOD) of Roy Hallums shaking hands with Air Force Brig. Gen. Frank Gorenc before boarding a flight home from Iraq.
Susan Hallums sent me an e-mail this morning. I thought I'd share it with you.
Dear Rusty,
I am sorry that it has taken me a few days I have thought of you many many times. I dont have my computer so there has been limited communication.
I have been so thrilled to have Roy back home. We are truly blessed that our prayers were answered and our faith NEVER allowed us to stop believing that Roy would return home.
I didnt know he would request a turkey sandwich and then request to be H-o-m-e, but I am truly extremely thankful and happy for this wonderful outcome.
You were the 1st to help Carrie and I and our interviews are an unforgettable experience, but Roy told me we all helped. We will never forget your huge efforts. My prayers are with the other hostages and their families may God be with them.
Thanksssssssssssssss,
Susan Hallums
And thank you Jawa Report readers for all of your support in the past. The Hallums family is still trying to raise money to cover expenses experienced in this ordeal.
1
Trying to raise money to cover expenses? Count the Filthy one in to help.
Posted by: Filthy Allah at September 16, 2005 12:29 PM (5ceWd)
2
Thank God! Sometimes it's hard to figure out these terrorists. Why would they hold Roy for so many months, yet not hesitate and slit the throats of Armstrong and the others so quickly?
For whatever reasons, I'm glad they kept him alive...truly a miracle...his family must be thrilled!
Posted by: Laura at September 16, 2005 03:43 PM (L3PPO)
3
Yes Filthy we must put our money where our mouth is.
Posted by: Howie at September 16, 2005 04:01 PM (D3+20)
4
Laura:
You posted the same thing the day the news released, I responded to it then.
There have been numerous people in Iraqi held ransom, where their kidnapper's have requested cash for their safe return, they are most likely Iraqi nationals, possibly thugs from the old regime.
The people doing the beheading are the foreign terrorist's from groups like Al Qaeda in Iraq and the Ansar Al Sunnah hardliners / nutjobs.
One only has to look at the pictures of the Fedayeen:
http://media.msnbc.msn.com/j/msnbc/1843000/1843988.hmedium.jpg
There was an estimated 20,000-40,000 of these irregular forces most of which were recruited street thugs, and prisoners under the control of Uday Hussein. These people did not give up their day job, and reports suggest a lot of these were trained in terrorist operations by the Iraqi Government before the War, to fight a guerilla war when the regular army was defeated, and Saddam deposed.
It seems sometimes the administration focus on fighters from Syria/Saudi Arabia/Yemen etc, but there were numerous thugs already willing to do homicide bombs in Saddams Fedayeen army, in fact if you remember the news footage in the beginning of the War they found numerous suicide vests, along with army equipment.
Posted by: dave at September 16, 2005 07:41 PM (CcXvt)
Freed Hostage Roy Hallums Heading HomeRoy Hallums, the American civilian held hostage in Iraq freed two days ago by Coalition Forces, is heading home to the United States.
The AP is reporting that Roy boarded a C-17 transport plane at a US Air Force base in Balad, 50 miles north of Baghdad. Sources tell the Jawa Report that Roy will be landing soon and that the Hallums family will meet privately with Roy. In deference to the family's privacy, we will not reveal the location of this reunion.
Roy is said to be in good health, given the extreme conditions he has endured since Nov. 1st of 2004 when he was abducted from his Baghdad neigborhood with other civilian contractors.
A friend of Roy's from Baghdad, 'Hussein', possibly the last man to see him before he was taken hostage, told the following to the BBC upon learning of Roy's release. A friend from the FBI called him and said, "Sit down and don't cry. We have Roy. He is alive."
"No-one seemed to mention him or to care. It's so unfair." He continued.
We at The Jawa Report, at least, cared.
Speaking of what Robert Tarangoy, the Filipino contractor taken hostage with Roy and released several months ago on rumors that Manila had paid a ransom, had been through, Hussein infered what conditions might have been like for Roy.
"He still has to wear sunglasses, even at night, because they kept [Tarangoy] in a hood for eight months while in captivity.
They used him as a punching bag the whole time, every time they [kidnappers] walked past him they'd kick him, or punch him and slap him."
'Hussein', who's name has been changed, says that Roy Hallums' kidnappers had not made contact in the past month and that worries began to mount.
Posted by: Howie at September 09, 2005 08:34 AM (D3+20)
2
Although its still month away roy can truly sing I,LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
Posted by: sandpiper at September 09, 2005 09:10 AM (swaoX)
3
Dear Rusty, Thank you for always remembering Roy and caring. It was the longest 311 days of anguish our family has ever endured. We sincerely appreciate all the prayers and efforts. We are blessed. Sincere regards, Susan Hallums
Posted by: Susan Hallums at September 10, 2005 06:19 PM (6krEN)
4
Best wishes to you, and your family Susan.
amen to Howie, Welcome Home Roy.
Posted by: dave at September 10, 2005 11:01 PM (CcXvt)
American Hostage Freed, Family Reacts
Hostage Roy Hallums has been freed in Iraq. Members of his family have now confirmed this to me personally. They are elated. Family members are en route to a reunion with Roy as we speak. Thank you for your prayers and thanks to the Coalition Forces for rescuing Roy.
Great news! I'm not sure what this means in the scope of things, but he was rescued rather than released, which tends to suggest that ongoing efforts to do obeisance to the Arab Jihad's rear-end may be wasted. Not that I'm totally against it, mind you, but one has to give some creedance to the empirical results.
So, until further notice Bush probably ought to issue a "no ass-kissing" directive, just to be on the safe side.
Posted by: Demosophist at September 07, 2005 02:49 PM (3o01z)
4
I heard that a captured Iraqi told the authorities where Roy was being held. He was not simply released. He was indeed rescued. But at this point in time there seems to be tons of different storys out there. I guess we should wait till the dust settles to get the real scoop.
At any rate when I heard this news my heart filled with joy. God bless you Mr. Hallums. God bless your family too. We are all so very happy you will all be reunited. We are also so very happy to have you back on American soil.
Posted by: mike at September 07, 2005 03:46 PM (+7Usq)
5
Yo folks, most the comments are on the other thread.
Posted by: Rusty at September 07, 2005 04:34 PM (JQjhA)
6
Great news...I hope his captors are dead as we celebrate.
Posted by: Jester at September 07, 2005 07:01 PM (QKZX5)
7
I can't believe it! Why is it that they held him that long and the others were beheaded within days of their capture? That baffles me.
Thank God...his family must be overjoyed.
Posted by: Laura at September 07, 2005 09:26 PM (L3PPO)
8
Laura,
This baffles you? why? I think it has been made very public that the most violent sects of terrorists are the people like Al-Sunni, and Al-Quada in Iraq, there are lots of fractions from the old fedayeen(?) and Saddam loyalists and even Iraqi nationals involved in the insurgency, there were numerous people released by their captors (some even for money) you can rest assured he was not captured by the hard liners.
That aside, this is great news. I cannot believe what a blessing his safe return must be to his family.
Posted by: dave at September 08, 2005 06:58 AM (DO6vD)
American Hostage Roy Hallums Rescued in Iraq! (UPDATED)
UPDATE: This post to be updated throughout the day.
Update 13:19: Members of his extended family have now confirmed to me, personally, that Roy has been freed. They are elated. Family members are en route to a reunion with Roy as we speak. Thank you for your prayers and thanks to the Coalition Forces for rescuing Roy.
Many of Roy's family and friends, though, know only as much as they are being told in the media. If you have any tips about information that we are not covering, please e-mail me at mypetjawat-at-gmail-dot-com (remove 'at' and 'dot' and replace).
----
Roy Hallums was abducted on Nov. 1st along with several other foreign contractors. The U.S. state department refused to comment on whether there was an American hostage in Iraq. On Nov. 30th, The Jawa Report reported that an American hostage was being held in Iraq. On Dec. 2nd, Roy's daughter Carrie and his ex-wife Susan contacted The Jawa Report confirming that Roy was taken hostage in Iraq and clarifying his name.
Since that time we have run dozens of stories on Roy and the other forgotten hostages in Iraq. We have also tried to raise funds for the Free Roy Foundation. I have personally been in contact with the Hallums family since our initial story ran. In the last few months I have feared that Roy was dead, but every so often I would get an e-mail from Susan reminding me to keep Roy in my prayers. Her faith, and the faith of Roy's daughters and grandchildren, never waivered.
I have not heard from Susan or Carrie yet, but I expect some word in the near future. While I am not an official spokesperson for the Hallums family, I am sure that Susan and Carrie would express their many thanks for your prayers and support throughout these trying months.
Thank you Jawa Report readers and friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
--Rusty Shackleford
-----------------------
Cnn: Is reporting that Roy Hallums has been rescued. Details later. This really is good news.
Developing.
Roy Hallums, the U.S. contractor who was kidnapped in November, is rescued in Iraq, ex-wife says. Details soon.
"I can confirm he's been released," Susan Hallums, 53, told The Associated Press by telephone. "Considering what he's been through, I understand he's in good condition."
UPDATE from Rusty: Today is one of the happiest days of my life. I'm literally crying.
Update 11:56: NYTimes, hat tip Lawhawk. It looks like Roy was freed thanks to a tip from a detainee. Guantanamo? Probably not, but Abu Ghraib is a distinct possibility:
Coalition forces acting on a tip from an Iraqi detainee Wednesday rescued American hostage Roy Hallums from an isolated farm house south of Baghdad, a military statement said. An Iraqi also was rescued....
Hallums was held in a farmhouse 15 miles south of Baghdad, the statement said, adding that rescuers were tipped to his whereabouts by an unidentified Iraqi detainee.
''I want to thank all of those who were involved in my rescue -- to those who continuously tracked my captors and location, and to those who physically brought me freedom today,'' Hallums said in the military statement.
''To all of you, I will be forever grateful. Both of us are in good health and look forward to returning to our respective families. Thank you to all who kept me and my family in their thoughts and prayers.''
This contradicts earlier reports that Roy Hallums was being held near Fallujah, but makes much more sense.
Posted by: Rusty at September 07, 2005 11:25 AM (JQjhA)
7
This is really good news.
I would support a fundraiser, so he can do like that Swedish guy and hire some "payback" guys to go out and hunt-down his abductors and finish them off.
Posted by: lawhawk at September 07, 2005 11:36 AM (AcoYr)
12
great! we rescued one person in iraq, while an estimated 10,000 float down Bourbon Street in the richest country in the world! yeah, us 'leftards' are really disappointed this guy got resuced, since we hate america so much.
phil
http://lefttochance.com
Posted by: phil at September 07, 2005 11:43 AM (TTiLg)
Posted by: Howie at September 07, 2005 11:45 AM (D3+20)
14
Hell, Phil, you are obviously wasting your talents here... you should go down and assist... I bet Sean Penn needs more help with his red cup brigade even as I type! You can be his second personal photographer, or even a personal blogger. How cool!
Posted by: Wine-aholic at September 07, 2005 11:54 AM (Wsn+K)
15
Thank God. I hope the reunion with his family is very very soon!
Posted by: caltechgirl at September 07, 2005 12:13 PM (PI0gZ)
I was just telling him about what was going on," Susan Hallums told CNN. "He didn't know about New Orleans. ... He was very sorry for all the people there."
Posted by: Howie at September 07, 2005 12:59 PM (D3+20)
That's a pretty important point from CNN's website. Capturing Islamofascists can be just as useful as eliminating them.
Posted by: Venom at September 07, 2005 01:25 PM (dbxVM)
24
We had nothing to do with this. Our only role was to keep Roy's name in the news, that's all. It was our brave soldiers in Iraq, with God's help, that did all the work!
Posted by: Rusty at September 07, 2005 01:25 PM (JQjhA)
25
Thank God. Rusty-good work. Make sure the family knows how thrilled we all are.
Posted by: Jane at September 07, 2005 01:27 PM (M7kiy)
26
While you are obviously correct about our soldiers, Rusty, keeping his name in the news is so small feat given the general "screw them" climate in certain media outlets. Not bad for an outfit named after a South Park/Star Wars reference.
Posted by: Wine-aholic at September 07, 2005 01:29 PM (Wsn+K)
27
Good job and thumbs up! We are rooting for you from one of Western Canada's foremost blogsites, SmallDeadAnimals Cheers, TonyGuitar
Posted by: TonyGuitar at September 07, 2005 01:30 PM (rmMzv)
Posted by: notHowie at September 07, 2005 01:49 PM (D3+20)
31
Welcome home Roy. Thank God you were rescued. Now let's hope that Jeffrey Ake will be rescued soon. He's the only American that is most likely still alive. Matt Maupin was most likely executed in the video shown in 2004. I haven't heard anything about Dean Sadek since January. No demands were ever made.
Posted by: George at September 07, 2005 01:51 PM (hrpbg)
32
Amen George, but don't write off Dean Sadek. We hadn't heard from Roy's captors for months and months.
Posted by: Rusty at September 07, 2005 02:01 PM (JQjhA)
33
To Roy and his family, God bless you and I'm thrilled that this story had a happy ending.
Posted by: MisterPundit at September 07, 2005 02:28 PM (PNzKN)
Posted by: Pixy Misa at September 07, 2005 05:28 PM (QriEg)
36
Hey Phil, you know why those corpses are floating down Bourbon Street? Because the leftard mayor and governor DROPPED THE BALL! How the hell is the governance of one city the mandate of the President? It isn't. It is the mandate of the elected officials of that city, and the state in which it resides, both of which are DEMOCRATS. That moron Nagin left a whole fleet of schoolbuses and city buses sitting in a motor pool while he abandoned ship, and the people had to walk out. You liberals are so stupid there are no words in any language sufficient to describe it.
Posted by: Improbulus Maximus at September 07, 2005 11:31 PM (0yYS2)
37
I have been scouring the leftistphere for even one
blog on the left that mentions this exciting and hopeful story. Not one. Sad but not unexpected. A rescued captive is one that they can't use as a shill for their contention that everyone that dies in Iraq dies needlessly.
Posted by: SoCalPundit at September 08, 2005 12:37 AM (rMZKl)
38
IM Dean did. But he's not yer ordinary left nutcase. More like in the vein of what a Democrat used/is supposed to be.
Posted by: Howie at September 08, 2005 01:45 PM (D3+20)
Isn't the news so great?? I'm certainly glad I contacted you way back when no one was saying anything about this. Roy is a good friend and I hope and pray he fully recovers from this ordeal very soon. Thanks again for what you did.
Butch
Posted by: Butch Conner at September 09, 2005 08:34 AM (kIola)
Hostage Family on CNN
Carrie and Susan Hallums, the daughter and ex-wife of American hostage Roy Hallums, will be on CNN's Inside Edition today. Susan asks that we please remember Roy Hallums and the other American hostages in Iraq in your prayers.
Roy Hallums Vigil ImagesKG from California Mafia attended a vigil held in honor of American hostage in Iraq Roy Hallums. If you missed the last post then you'll be happy to know that new evidence suggests that Roy Hallums is still alive in Iraq.
American Hostage Roy Hallums: ALIVE!!
Yesterday was American hostage Roy Hallums' 57th birthday. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor in Huntington Beach, CA yesterday. Today, we learn that he is definitely still alive.
Do not give up hope. Remember, some of the hostages in Lebanon were held for years. The Hallums' familye-mailed me expressing their thanks to our Jawa Report readers for all your support. Keep the prayers and good vibes flowing people! Xinhua:
An American, who has been kidnapped with a Filipino overseas work in Iraq, is still alive, a Philippine foreign affairs official said Friday.
Filipino Hostage Released in Iraq
This is VERY good news. Not only for the family of Robert Tarangoy, but because Tarangoy was taken hostage along with Roy Hallums. As you know, I've developed something of a relationship with the Hallums family. Keep Roy in your prayers, there is still hope. FYI--if you are in the Southern California area, there will be a candlelight vigil for Roy tomorrow in Huntington Beach. Details here. CNN:
Robert Tarongoy, a Filipino citizen taken hostage in Iraq almost eight months ago, has been freed, Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said Wednesday.
In a phone interview with Philippines' GMA television station, an emotional Tarongoy thanked Arroyo, The Associated Press reported. "She did not neglect me," he said, also thanking diplomats who helped win his freedom.
Asked how he was treated by his captors, Tarongoy said, his voice cracking: "You know how long I was kept there. It was difficult," AP reported.
In a written statement announcing his release, Arroyo said: "Robert is now safe in the hands of the Iraq hostage crisis team led by [Foreign] Undersecretary Rafael Seguis who is making the necessary arrangements to bring him back to the Philippines."....
The AP also reported that Seguis told GMA that no ransom was paid and several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan -- along with Muslim clerics -- helped secure Tarongoy's release.
Seguis said Tarongoy could be home as early as Thursday, according to the AP.
Tarongoy's wife -- in the Filipino city of Davao -- told AP her husband's release coincided with their third wedding anniversary.
"It's a very wonderful gift for both of us," she said. "I'm very happy."
It sounds good, so far, that no money was paid. However, there is this from Forbes:
The government of the Philippines secured the release of one of its nationals held hostage in Iraq after agreeing to set demands, the previously unknown armed group which claimed to have held him said, as reported b, Al-Jazeera television reported.
The Doha-based channel broadcast a videotape showing the hostage held by two armed men, reading what they claimed to be a statement by the Philippine foreign ministry, saying it has banned its nationals from travelling to Iraq and adopted a new law to punish those who disobeyed the order.
1
Good news indeed.
I hope to read of Roy Hallums safe return on this site soon.
Posted by: dave at June 22, 2005 04:06 PM (fsJ2z)
2
It made me so happy to hear of Robert Tarangoy's release . I actually screamed when I read it I was amazed and then of course hopeful that we get news now of Roy's release. What a wonderful birthday gift from God that would be,June 23rd is his 57th birthday. We love and miss you Roy we hope our prayers are felt all the way to Iraq when we have the prayer vigil in Huntington Beach tomorrow.God loves you and many others do also. Thank you for all that pray and try to help our family get through this aweful nightmare. Susan Hallums
Posted by: Susan Hallums at June 22, 2005 05:48 PM (RoEgt)
Candlelight Vigil for American Hostage Roy Hallums
I just got an e-mail from a friend if Roy's, Butch Conner, letting me know that a candlelight vigil will be held for American hostage in Iraq, Roy Hallums. Roy's daughter Carrie says, "It will probably be held in the Huntington Beach area. Please join us on this evening so we can show our support for my Dad and to let him know that we care! June 23rd is my Dad's Birthday, which is why we chose that day. He will be 57 years old."
We'll announce further details later or check Carrie's website here. If you're in the Orange County, CA, area it would be nice if you could show your support.
UPDATE: From Roy's daughter Carrie:
Hi Rusty,
We are going to have it next to the Huntington Beach Pier (off of Main
Street) at 6:45 on Thursday June 23rd. Thank you so much for your help! I
hope you are doing well!!
Take care,
Carrie
The Damned of the West 4: Interview with Carrie Hallums Cooper (part 2)American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.
I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 4 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.
In part 3 we interview Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. This segment continues that conversation.
Carrrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.
You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.
Or you can send a check or money order to
Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684
Rusty Shackleford: Roberto Tarongoy was taken hostage on the same day as Roy, and the Filipino government as recently as two weeks ago claimed that they knew Tarongoy was alive. However, the Philipines has a policy of negotiating with hostage-takers and even paying ransom for hostages release. What are your thoughts on that policy?
Carrie Hallums Cooper: First I’d like to say that I have a great respect for Ivy (Robert’s wife) and the Tarongoy family. If I were in Ivy’s shoes I would do whatever I could to free my husband. Cognitively though, I understand that if we (the U.S.) pay ransom for hostages this will only increase more hostage-taking, which is why the United States adheres to this policy. So, from that frame of mind, the Philippines policy of negotiating with hostage-takers may be encouraging more kidnappings, which for the Philippines as a whole is not beneficial.
However, unless you have been a family member of a hostage, you will never understand the lengths that you would go to in order to free your loved one. If I had to choose between policy and my father’s life, I would not hesitate to choose my father, and therefore pay a ransom (if I had the money). So, I do not fault the Philippines for listening to their hearts in hostage situations, even though it may encourage more hostage-taking.
I believe that the policy of not negotiating with terrorists was created for the majority (those family’s whose loved ones are not hostages), and most of the time it works out fine (as long as you stay in the majority). Right now I’m in the minority (a family member of a hostage), so I don’t feel like the policy works for me. I don’t want to put other people in danger by endorsing paying terrorists, which I do think is what happens when you pay ransoms (because it encourages more hostage taking); but at the same time, there has got to be a better policy than to just not deal with the terrorists.
To be honest with you I’m kind of torn about this issue right now. I’m not a policy maker, but I feel like someone could come up with a better solution than what we have in place right now (though I don’t know what it is), so that it’s a win-win situation for everyone. I’m sure the govt. would say that it is win-win now, but I don’t feel like sitting back and letting my Dad rot over in Iraq is win-win for either me or my Dad.
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The Damned of the West 3: Interview with Carrie Hallums Cooper (part 1) UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
------------------------------------
American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.
I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 3 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.
In this segment we interview Roy's daugther, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. Carrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.
You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.
Or you can send a check or money order to
Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684
-----------------------
Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?
Carrie Hallums Cooper: My Dad is the most giving person I have ever met. He did whatever he could to help his family and friends. Some other words that describe him are: thoughtful, kind, intelligent, quiet, athletic, funny, and fun. No one, besides my Mom, has ever treated me as well as my Dad has. My Dad, though far away, was always there for me. He called me all the time and sent me e-mails every day or so.
My Dad has many interests, both socially and intellectually. My Dad likes playing chess with me, going to art museums, walking on the beach or just being in nature (he likes being outdoors), riding his bike, going out to eat, reading, and he likes to listen to classic rock music (which my Mom always hated). He kept up to date on what was cool and hip, at least as much as he could being overseas.
My Dad’s dream for when he returned home from the middle east was to have a house by a lake, to own a boat, and to go fishing on the lake. He had recently purchased a home in Memphis near a lake and was excited to buy a small boat so that he could go fishing. I hope that he gets to do that some day.
My Dad was very wise and he always gave me good advice. He encouraged me to continue to do well in school, and for that matter he supported and encouraged me in everything I did. I carry every piece of advice, and all of his love and support, as well as, every memory that we made with me everywhere I go. I treasure it because it may be all that I have left of my father.
more...
1
A major problem is that our government has no idea what to do to free Roy. So they are tryinjg to bury this. It reminds me of the POW situation in 1990 when Bush 1 and a little guy from TX named Perot got into a pis-ing contest. Bush tried to cover up the lack of any progress on the POWs and his son is doing his best to pretend Roy was never born.
But, what can they do? Social-st-Muslims will not reason. The CIA was destroyed by Carter and what was rebuilt by Ronnie was torn down by Reno and Jamie Gorelick; so we have no clue as to where he is. If we did we could send in a SEAL team and extract him. But as every one is aware the CIA has been usless fo 28 years. Where is Roy? Your guess is as good as Rummies; and neither of you knows. A very painful problem which seems beyond solution at this time.
Posted by: Rod Stanton at April 26, 2005 05:56 PM (vRg2Q)
Posted by: Laura at April 26, 2005 08:17 PM (L3PPO)
3
Agree with Rod. But the fact that it hasn't gotten more attention in the press is an absolute disgrace. This is why we have to do what we can to change the leftist main stream media. The first thing we could all do is stop tuning in to CNN, ABC, BBC, CBC, etc. We could also refuse to buy their newspapers or magazines. Just don't support them. The Internet is a wonderful gift. Use it for all your news. It's there for free. If you want news on just about anything in the world most countires have local newspapers, many of which are online. Get your information first hand. Get both sides of every major story and then make an informed decision. But make your own decision. Don't let CNN or the New York Times, et al, filter it for you. I mean, how hard is it to take a principled stand for God's sake?
Posted by: John Crittenden at April 26, 2005 09:17 PM (cONYb)
4
Not sure that "official silence" = disinterest is a fair criticism. I expect that there are some very skilled warriors from TF 120 looking hard for Roy.
Posted by: NOTR at April 27, 2005 01:08 AM (Djm/j)
5
Sometimes, making too much noise is a bad thing. Makes the Hostage takers think they have someone too valuable or high priority.
For all we know, there are rough and ready men scouring Iraq for Roy. Just because you don't hear about it, does not mean it is not happening.
W has not forgotten this man and I have faith he will do what ever it takes to find him.
Posted by: Filthy Allah at April 27, 2005 09:49 AM (yBHNA)
6
Just wondering, why do you say "WE interviewed..."? Do you collaborate with someone on this blog? Does Mrs. Shakleford contribute? Who is WE exactly?
The Damned of the West (part 2): Interview With Susan Hallums (cont.)UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------
UPDATE: Part 1 of this interview is here.
In part 3, we interview Roy's daughter Carrie here.
American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.
I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 2 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. Part 1 of that interview can be found here. This segment continues the interview with Susan Hallums.
Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:
Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684
Rust Shackleford: Ever since we crossed paths I've been following your story and have read that you are in constant contact with the wife of Roberto Tarongoy [a Filipino who was taken hostage with Roy]. Would you like to tell us anything about that relationship? Perhaps there is something you would like to say on behalf of the Tarongoy family?
Susan Hallums: I can't comment on this one Rusty, that is their request.
RS: Have you had any contact with any of the other families of hostages being held in Iraq? Jeffrey Ake, Tim Bell, Bill Bradley, or Dean Sadek, or Mohammed Monaf? If not, is there anything you would like to say to them if you could?
SH: No I havent . I called Jeffrey Ake's company and told them to please call me if they would like to talk to me. That I have been in these terrible shoes for 6 months and if I could help in any way please call me. He has my prayers and hopes that he is released right away. His family also has my prayers and my heart goes out to them.
more...
1
Ms. Hallums has an excelent point. I think we may be letting these hostages down some. I'll be keeping Mr. Hallum and the others as well as their families in my thoughts and prayers. It may be that they are taken one by one or in small numbers so the media doesn't get all excited like with the Iranian hostages. We should all express some support here so Ms. Hallums & family can see it.
Posted by: Howie at April 20, 2005 01:53 PM (D3+20)
2
Because of all the incredible stories of survival coming from Iraq, I still have hope for Roy and his family. Because of all the unspeakably cruel and evil things that these cowards create, we should all prepare for the worst. Our prayers are with the Hallums.
Posted by: Sean the INFDL at April 20, 2005 02:19 PM (pskKC)
3
El Ahram reported that during the 2003 Baghdad chaos, Four BILLION USD was looted from the Central Bank. How much of that is now funding the Zarqawis over there?
Posted by: Collin Baber at April 20, 2005 06:40 PM (FV4oJ)
4
Anwar: May your camel get aids and pass it to everyone in your mosque.
Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 09:36 PM (aq8Ok)
5
Boring. I'm going to Leo's house on the river to drink beer and talk about the muslim problem.
Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 09:38 PM (aq8Ok)
6
Anwar: Is it true that Sunnis take a dump standing up? Must be a hell of a splash. Ker plunk. Friggin tidal wave all over the bathroom. No wonder they got brown feet.
Is the left hand really for the toilet and the right hand for eating. I guess it makes sense. when you don't have the technology to make ass wipe. And no water for the left hand. Now I know where the expression stink finger comes from. The Sunnis. Oh shit, ha, ha. I've got to get outa here.
Seen Anwar yelling into an envelope.
Says he was sending an Sunni voice mail.
Pop a top my friend.
Anwar had an emergency so he called the telephone company to ask the number for 911.
Fill er up again.
Sunnis can't make jello because they can't fit 2 qts of water into the box.
Bunch of dead heads. Have a drink and wake up.
Anwar: O lover of goats. You asked where I was.
Here I am. Where the hell are you. Still blogging on the taxpayers of Calgary's dime?
I got friends in low places. Where the whiskey flows and beer chases the Sunnis away. And we will be OK. I'll drink to that. In fact, I already have.
Posted by: greyrooster at April 20, 2005 10:03 PM (aq8Ok)
WILLARD
"Yes sir, very much so sir. Obviously insane."
LUCAS
"Your mission is to proceed up the Pearl River in a Civilian bass boat. Pick up Colonel Sanderson's path at Picayune, follow it, learn what you can along the way. When you find the Colonel, infiltrate his communication network by whatever means available and disconnect the Colonel's cable modem."
WILLARD
"Disconnect.. the modem?"
CORMAN
"He's out there blogging without any decent restraint, totally beyond the pale of any acceptable intercultural conduct. And he is still in the forest, attacking the Muslim world."
CIVILIAN
"Disconnect.. his extreme prejudice."
LUCAS
"You understand Captain... , that this operation does
not exist, nor will it ever exist."
Posted by: Collin Baber at April 21, 2005 03:31 AM (FV4oJ)
8
Your external links (to the Hallums site) are broken.
Posted by: someone at April 21, 2005 05:51 AM (ZMAzf)
The Damned of the West (part 1): Interview With Susan Hallums
UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
------------------------------------------- Update: Part 2 of the interview is here.
Part 3 is an interview with Roy Hallums' daughter is here.
American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.
Roy was taken hostage along with six other foreign nationals, including a Fillipino named Robert Tarongoy. The U.S. did not publish the fact that an American citizen had been taken hostage because of a policy of treating civilian abductions as purely private matters. The Jawa Report was the first publication to identify Roy Hallums as the hostage.
Since that time we have been in contact with members of the Hallums family who started leaving comments at our site. Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, and his ex-wife, Susan Hallums, have been leading the charge to keep Roy's plight in the media.
Unfortunately the mainstream media has tended to bury stories of American hostages in the back pages until something dramatic happens, such as the release of a hostage video. The sad fact is that the American hostages in Iraq are forgotten casualties of war. We find this situation unacceptable and pledge to do our part in keeping these victims in the headlines.
I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 1 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. This segment features an interview with Susan Hallums.
Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:
Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684
Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?
Susan Hallums: Roy is the kind of person that is always well liked by most everyone that is fortunate enough to meet him. He is a very kind and caring man. He has always been a great father and grandfather to our daughters and granddaughter.
more...
2
Unfortunately they must remain the damned of the West. It's the best way to prevent more hostages being taken and the blackmailing of the West's leaders.
Posted by: Carlos at April 19, 2005 04:12 PM (paKD6)
3
Encore! Where is part 2. Who invented waiting, anyway? This is an example of the power of the blogosphere, Doc. Thank ye verily, the word will spread like wildfire - on the US State Department will have difficulty containing.
Posted by: ZiPpo at April 19, 2005 04:39 PM (P7XXv)
4
I pray that our government is actively negotiating for his release in good faith.
Posted by: Collin Baber at April 19, 2005 09:23 PM (FV4oJ)
6
I'm not exactly praying that our government is negotiating in good faith with the hostage-takers.
I'll say more after I've read all four parts.
Thanks Dr. S. and Mrs. Hallums for the interview.
Posted by: Carpe Bonum at April 20, 2005 12:02 AM (Vk6xu)
7
Good work, Rusty. It is sad to say that if he was against the war, this would be a big story. I hope Roy gets the hell out soon. This is important stuff, keep it up.
Posted by: Sean the INFDL at April 20, 2005 12:19 AM (pskKC)
8
It is unfortunate that civilians are taken hostage, but they are casualties of war. Everyone involved needs to understand that just because the work of war and reconstruction is performed by some civilians does not make them different than soldiers except for one thing:
They were hired because they are less expensive to pay than a career G.I.
The only appropriate action is for anyone facing capture to fight to the death and take as many ragheads with them as they can.
Posted by: Hugh Jorgan at April 20, 2005 08:32 AM (x2eX4)
9
First my prayers are with Roy and his family. And I pray for his safe return.
As much as I sympathize with Roy's family, when civilian contractors take jobs in dangerous regions of the world they "know exactly what they are getting into and that capture and death are a HIGH possibility". This is one of the reasons civilian contractors take these jobs because of the compensation for the hazardous work. Along with the compensation these hero’s also want to help the people of the countries they are going to rebuild. As much as our military are liberators, civilian contractors are rebuilders.
America’s policy of "no negotiation with terrorists" is the only policy that makes sense. If you negotiate with terrorist they will continue to extort you for more and more. The reality is that hostages are casualties of war. That doesn’t mean we forget about them, or stop trying to rescue them.
I am not so sure or quick to think that these hostages are "forgotten". I think that the situation is monitored and when active Intel is available on whereabouts action will be taken to retrieve them. The U.S. cannot go public with any of this information, nor as callous as it may sound; can keep the family “well†informed because people "talk" and any leak could mean trouble.
Do I think that hostage situations could be better made public by mass rallies? Sure I do, and I think it should happen. The problem is the MSM, they only are interested in pursing stories that are bad for the administration or play to the far left. So unless this rally was billed to the MSM in some way as to denounce the administration rather than support Roy they wouldn't bite.
Great interview and I am looking forward to the next part(s)…
Posted by: Bruce Wallwin at April 20, 2005 09:48 AM (HB9/G)
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Posted by: genesco at July 07, 2005 06:13 AM (1B1hZ)
11
i will like to be offered a job in genesco i am a nigerian ,how to go about the job i dont know so i need assitance on how to aply.
Posted by: ojuneku edison at August 31, 2005 11:51 AM (VdGzp)
12
If they murder him we should spare no expence in bringing these hooded cowards in DEAD
Posted by: sandpiper at September 26, 2005 08:59 AM (vnSBY)
State Department Admits 3 American Hostages 'Probably' in IraqAFP reports that the State Department is now admitting that at least 3 Americans are probably alive and being held in Iraq:
"We know of three Americans who are held hostage in Iraq, and then there is a handful of others that are unaccounted for," State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said on Wednesday.
Boucher declined to identify the three or provide any details on their situation, only saying that officials are in regular contact with their families.
By my count there are four, possibly five. They are:
Roy Hallums, Dean Sadek, Tim Bell and Bill Bradley. The Army of Ansar al Sunnah claimed to have killed Spc. Matt "Keith" Maupin on video, but the victim could not be identified as in other videos released by the group.
Matt Maupin's family still believes he is alive and is working towards some kind of solution to find out if that is true or not. I'm not sure if they have a site on him but I do know they do not accept that back video in the dark as his killing, so they are still holding out hope. For their sake, I hope they get some closure one way or another and I hope and pray it's for the best. Just thought you'd like to know.
There are a lot more hostages than we know of and a lot more deaths than we are aware of and I hope those families can somehow find some peace.
Whatever happened to the belief that Spiecer (sp? who was caught during the Gulf War (1991) was still alive? Any word on him?
Cindy
PS Sorry but my laptop fried and I lost all my info, email, websites and more - just like my two cpu's sitting on the floor beside my desk, which I never use, so now I have 4 total computers that do not work - I'm just borrowig this laptop for about 5 minutes from someone else.
Posted by: firstbrokenangel at January 28, 2005 06:52 AM (D39Vm)
Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi on Wednesday called on Iraqi insurgents to release a U.S. hostage [Roy Hallums], responding to the captive's plea for his intervention...
"As a response to the begging, we ask the Iraqi resistance in the name of Islam and Arabism to free him, implementing the principle of forgiveness," the Arab satellite news channel Al-Jazeera quoted Gadhafi as saying in a statement...
What was really meant by Roy Hallums' plea for the Libyan leaders help was that he pay the $12 million ransom demand. Presumably so the terrorist could buy the baby heard in the background of the hostage video some new pampers and some bling-bling.
1
Having been following the case here for many months and hearing from his family and seeing the family photos at the website, its much harder to maintain the "no ransom" philosophy. I know in the abstract that will just encourage more hostage taking, but in the concrete, I really hope he gets back to his family and am kind of hoping the Kaddaffi pays the 12M.
Posted by: Jane at January 26, 2005 06:54 PM (+7VNs)
2
And if this is simply an act of hostage taking for ransoms sake then those that took Hallums are not 'terrorists' but simple criminals. Governments deal with criminals all the time.
Posted by: Rusty at January 27, 2005 08:10 AM (JQjhA)
Hallums Family Reacts to Hostage Video, $12 million dollar ranson demand made
Susan and Carrie are finally getting some MSM press again. As suspected, the bastards holding Roy are demanding a $12 million ransom. KESQ:
The former wife of an American who was kidnapped in Baghdad and appeared in a recent hostage video is urging President Bush to save him.
Speaking on the "Today" show this morning, Susan Hallums of Corona, California says her former husband Roy is a "patriotic" American hero who needs help....
[speaking of Roy's allusions to Bush] Hallums' daughter, Carrie, says she believes that statement was scripted. She insists he's "always been a supporter of our U-S government."
"It was terrible to see him, but good to see him,' said Susan Hallums, Roy's ex-wife. "He's strong, but I could tell he was fearful for his life. He had a machine gun next to his head.'
The Corona woman said she thought Roy looked "pale, thin and fearful.'...
"The week before (the abduction), he e-mailed me every day, and he called (the) kids two or three times a week,' she said. "We were both very close to our children, so that should keep you close friends, and we were.'
Susan Hallums said that although the U.S. government adheres to a strong policy of non-negotiation with terrorists, Roy's former employer, Riyadh-based Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Co., had been in contact with the hostage-takers since his abduction. The company told her $12 million was being demanded in exchange for her ex-husband's release....
"It hit me this morning when I was crying,' she said despondently while packing her suitcase. "I was devastated. It's still hard to see him. But he's strong and he's brave. If anybody could get through this, he will.'
1
Oh Boy! Here goes.
(1) Not to smart of Hallums daughter to say he's always been an American supporter. He's been put forth as an employee of a Saudi company. Maybe nothing said is best for now.
(2) Wife calling him a American hero. Now that should further incite the America haters.
(3) Why is he a hero?
(4) Hallums degrading Bush is what the Islamofacist want. Susan Hallums (ex-wife) should not be denying it at this time.
All we can do is hope. Then swear to obtain justice and avenge any crime done to him.
Posted by: greyrooster at January 26, 2005 06:51 PM (5VwJE)
2
We love and care about Roy. It is not easy being in our shoes and pleading for his life . None of us get much sleep any more. I want him released but we have been kind and sincere since day one and I won't say he was unpatriotic , we are saying what any family would say he is a good man and kind... PLEASE FREE ROY...
Posted by: Susan Hallums at February 08, 2005 10:00 PM (/tgDb)
Terrorists Release Video of American Hostage Roy Hallums (UPDATED)
UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------------------
A new video has surfaced showing American hostage Roy Hallums. I have posted a transcription of the video below.
Roy Hallums was abducted on Nov. 1st, 2004 from his apartment in Baghdad along with several other foreign nationals. Roy is a civilian and was in Iraq working on the reconstruction effort. A Fillipino hostage, taken with Roy, was later released [ht: Digger] seems to be still in captivity, even though the government of the Phillippines is directly negotiating with the hostage takers. Roy's abduction was first broken at the Jawa Report on November 30th. We also reported on Roy in the post Remembering the Forgotten American Hostages in Iraq and in our Tribute to American Hostage Roy Hallums). I would urge readers to check the comments on those posts as many of Roy's family and friends have left comments.
UPDATE III: I have obtained a copy of the video. A transcription of it follows. Roy seems in good health, but is obviously agitated. He is seen sitting on the floor, crosslegged, an rubs his hands as he makes the statement. An AK-47 is pointed at his head throughout. At several points in the video a baby can be heard crying in the background. The copy of the video I have may be incomplete as the audio cuts off as Roy continues to speak:
My name is Roy Hallums. I'm an American national and I have worked with the American forces.
I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq.
I'm please asking for help because I...my life is in danger because it's been proved that I worked for American forces.
I'm not asking for any help from President Bush because I know of his selfishness and unconcern for those that have been pushed into this hell hole.
I am asking for the help of Arab rulers, especially President Muammar Gaddafi because he's known for helping those who are suffering.
I also ask that Arab leaders help me in this situation so that I can be released as quickly as possible from this definite death. I would remember this favor for the rest of my life, should my life remain.
And I ask my family to help because my health is in a very bad situation.
So please, please I'm asking any one, Arab leader, especially President Gaddafi, please help me in this situation so I can be reunited...(audio ends but lips keep moving)
It is not clear whether this is the end of the video, or if my copy is only partial. No demands are made by his captors. The entire video is in English and Roy is the only one that speaks. The pleas for Ghaddafi's intercession are a first to my knowledge in a hostage video. It is also obvious that Roy is unaware of his families efforts to free him.
One US citizen, apparently taken hostage in Iraq, has pleaded for his life, according to a video tape released on Tuesday.
The man identifying himself as Roy Hallams said, "I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq. I am asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved that I work for American forces."
But the authenticity of the video has to be verified.
On the video, the man asked for help from Arab leaders instead of US President George W. Bush. But he fell short of saying when or where he was captured.
UPDATE I: More details of the tape are emerging.....
A videotape found on Tuesday shows an American abducted last November by gunmen in Baghdad pleading for his life and appealing to Arab rulers including Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi to intercede to spare his life...
On the tape, Hallums, with a rifle pointed at his head, stated his name and said "I have worked with American forces."
"I am please asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved I worked for American forces," he said. "I'm not asking for any help from President Bush because I know of his selfishness and unconcern for those who've been pushed into this hellhole."
Hallums, speaking slowly, said he was asking for help from "Arab rulers especially President Muammar Gaddafi because he's known for helping those who are suffering."
"I also ask that Arab leaders help me in this situation so I can be released as quickly as possible from this definite end," he added. "I would remember this favour for the rest of my life should my life remain and I ask my family to help because my health is in a very bad situation."
Ghaddafi?? Bad words against Bush?? This does not sound like the Roy Hallums as described to me by his family and friends. I'm sure the rifle pointed at his head had something to do with his pleas.
Further, the intervention on the part of Ghaddafi may be a hidden plea for money. Robert Tarongoy, the Fillipino abducted with Roy, was released reportedly after ransom was paid. How else could Ghaddafi help??
The undated video shows American contractor Roy Hallums, who was seized with five colleagues in Baghdad in November, sitting cross-legged in front of a black background anxiously rubbing his hands as he makes an appeal to the camera....
"I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq," 56-year-old Hallums, dressed in civilian clothes and his beard flecked with white, says on the tape.
"I'm asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved that I work for American forces."
As he speaks, the barrel of an assault rifle is held inches from his head. Unlike other tapes made by militants of hostages seized in Iraq, no flags or banners of an organization appear in the picture and no demands are made.
Susan Hallums said she kept her ex-husband's kidnapping a secret for weeks after finding out that he had been abducted in Iraq this past November.
Now her former husband's pleas for mercy are being heard by the world. A newly released videotape shows missing American Roy Hallums pleading at gunpoint for Arab rulers to let him live.
Susan Hallums told ABC News' "Good Morning America" — in an interview that aired on Dec. 19 — that she hoped speaking out about her former husband of 32 years might help him be released.
"He's on the quiet side … in every walk of life he's always been very well-liked and well-received," Susan Hallums said on "GMA."
When Susan Hellums and her two grown daughters were first told of her her ex-husband's abduction, she said they were asked by authorities to refrain from discussing it with anyone else. She said she decided to speak out after reading about his fellow captive.
Roy Hallums, 56, was abducted on Nov. 1 along with Robert Tarongoy of the Philippines. The kidnappings took place after an armed assault on their compound in Baghdad. Roy Hallums and Tarongoy had been working for a Saudi company that does catering for the Iraqi army.
Susan Hallums, 52, said her former husband was supposed to come home in late November. She said he'd planned to stay through his daughter Carrie's birthday in late December.
His daughter Carrie Cooper told "GMA" that she hoped his captors would show mercy if they knew he had a family.
"Please let my dad go," she pleaded with his kidnappers on "GMA," before telling her father "I love you and I hope you can come home soon."
Susan Hallums, Roy's ex-wife, sent me this e-mail a week ago. Let me share part of it with you:
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and email buddies reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your race. Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings.
Amen.
Amen.
Roy's family has made these 'Save Roy' magnets, and may be purchased by sending a minumum donation of $3 to the 'Free Roy Foundation' at:
1
Im sorry but what Roy is saying on the tape is true he knows that once he was captured there was no way the US government would even to try to save him. That's why is he's asking for his family and Ghaddaffi to help.
Posted by: IraQ at January 25, 2005 09:47 AM (22t5y)
2
Actually Rusty, Roberto Tarongoy is still being held captive. The Filipino who was freed for $6 million ransom and a philippines troop pullout was truck driver Angelo de la Cruz.
Posted by: Digger at January 25, 2005 10:01 AM (+oQdM)
3
I have not seen the CBS nor the CNN series on the mistreatment of Roy. I noticed that his holders A. slapped him and B. jabbed him with rifles. Did I miss that part of the "balanced" coverage we get from these "pro-American" networks? Rathergate was wrong; there is not anti-American bigotry in the MSM!
Posted by: Rod Stanton at January 25, 2005 10:50 AM (+7VNs)
4
He looks like shit and even said he's not in good health. Can someone tell me why he's there in the first place? A job or something?
My guess is that he will see the fate of Armstrong, Hensley, Bigley and the others before them.
Sad. We need to get these bastards.
Posted by: Laura at January 25, 2005 12:51 PM (ptOpl)
5
It is beyond my comprehension how one person could kidnap another innocent person, give him or her a mock trial for some crime in which they had no involvement, pronounce the harshest judgment, and then kill them in the most cruel way.
Is each citizen responsible for everything their government does? I pray for Roy Hallums ...
Father,
I pray that you will be with Roy Hallums and that you will convict his captors of this most heinous crime. Please, bring Roy Hallums back to his family quickly and safely. Also, please be with the friends and family of Roy Hallums, contort them as only you can.
In the holy name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Posted by: dana at January 25, 2005 01:43 PM (GPxAE)
Posted by: Rod Stanton at January 25, 2005 03:00 PM (IcheV)
7
Oddly, every American that is captured by terrorists makes me want to join up. Even if the only useful thing I can do is laundry or drive a truck...
Posted by: babs at January 25, 2005 04:09 PM (YSR4s)
8
I read something a few months back (forgotten where) that Moammar pays ranson for kidnapees. No wonder Hallum addressed Khadaffi. Moammar says that he has gotten out of the terrorist business, but he will pay a ransom to free them. A convenient way to continue to send money to terrorists, but under the guise of "ransom".
Just heard on the news, they think they have found Hallum's body.
SICK!!
Posted by: Pat at January 25, 2005 07:01 PM (vV3Qc)
9
There is only one way to prevent anything from happening to Mr. Hallums; regrettably, our gov't would never have the stones to pursue it.
Announce that if any American hostage is killed, TEN prisoners at Gitmo will be selected at random, stood against a wall and shot. to demonstrate that the threat is real, 3 will be selected and shot immediately. This is language these animals understand; lenience they regard as weakness.
Assymetric, guerilla, terroristic warfare only works for the underdog when the opponent decides the game is not worth the candle and gives up.
It NEVER works against a genuinely DETERMINED adversary that is willing to consistently repay every barbarity at at a very high rate of interest
Under such a program, eventually either the Jawas run out of foolishness or we run out of Jawas; in either case, well before we run out of ammunition.
Posted by: Lucius Severus Pertinax at January 26, 2005 03:50 AM (h5H65)
10
This poor man is a dead man walking.....God bless him.
Posted by: Karl at January 26, 2005 06:16 AM (PM/BC)
11
Were Bush to ever acquiesce to any demands by these terrorists, it would be open season on any and all westerners. Even those now not committing acts of terrorism would see it as an invitation to gain quick power and money. The lives of many would be forfeited. Bush isn't selfish at all; he simply knows the ugly truth and has the integrity and courage to do the right thing.
Posted by: Jack Lewis at January 26, 2005 06:24 AM (0UpPc)
12
Lets just keep in mind that since Rusty has been in contact with the family, one of them may come and read these comments. If so, please know we all are praying and hurt with you. I think he's coming home.
Then we'll have a blog party.
Posted by: Jane at January 26, 2005 07:25 AM (+7VNs)
Posted by: Rod Stanton at January 26, 2005 08:59 AM (IcheV)
14
Hello,
This is your wakeup call.....
Iraq, THE ENTIRE COUNTRY is a WAR ZONE!!!!
If you go there for any reason you are subjecting yourself to whatever those who don't want you there choose to do to you.
PLEASE do your loved ones a favor and consider LONG AND HARD the choice you are making.
Then, if you've made the choice to go there PLEASE tell your loved ones to LIVE WITH IT!!!!
Posted by: Hacksaw at January 26, 2005 05:04 PM (EPVeK)
15
LUCIUS SEVERUS PERTINAX: You are about to be attacked by every terrorist hugging liberal on this blog.
Be ready.
Posted by: greyrooster at January 26, 2005 07:06 PM (5VwJE)
16
Hacksaw, I think these innocent civilian hostages were there way before we went to Iraq, and were lulled into a false sense of security. Some of them did have guards who were overtaken when they were kidnapped. But that was only at the house. They weren't protected as they travelled around the area.
I don't think they thought anything could happen to them, as they weren't directly involved with the war issue. On the other hand, when the slaughters started, I think I would have hightailed it the hell out of there fast, seeing that I wouldn't be safe anymore. Guess they just didn't think it would happen to them.
Sad.
Posted by: Laura at January 27, 2005 09:14 AM (ptOpl)
17
Hi Rusty, I see this has come a long way since I first contacted you. I'm glad that there are so many people that don't even know Roy that truly seem to care. Yeah, there are some pessimists in the here, but there's always a few bad banana's in a bunch. As you know and have said, we backed down when it seemed the family wasn't sure they wanted to pursue the publicity, but now that at least part of them have agreed, let's just keep this thing going till Roy A. Hallums walks off that plane somewhere, safe and sound, to the arms of his loving family. Roy is a fine man, as good as I've probably ever known and does not deserve the situation he has found himself in the middle of. I will continue to pray and do anything I can to help him and his family get through this tragic mess. Keep up your faith Susan, Carrie and the rest of the family, God will bring Roy back to you. Also, let's all remember his co-worker, Robert Tarongoy from the Philippines and pray he returns home safely to his family and loved one's as well. If I know Roy, he would certainly want us to be concerned about him too!
Posted by: Butch Conner at January 28, 2005 08:22 AM (dMWB/)
18
I just would like to say thank you to all of the people that have made positive and loving comments for the family. It really seems to help knowing that there are kind individuals that take the time to show their concern and support. To those of you that have said cruel things ... does it make you feel better to hurt a family that is already hurt so much. Roy is a wonderful man. He loved his family (Susan, Carrie, Amanda and little Sabrina). I have know Roy for over all of my life and have never know a more loving caring man. He loved his country and would have never made the comments against the US without a gun at his head. I am a cousin to Roy and only hope that his release is soon because his health is going fast. From the video he looks so weak and sick. Please continue to pray for him and show POSITIVE support. If you must feel NEGATIVE ... please do not email the family!
Posted by: Lisa Rich at January 30, 2005 05:41 PM (QfUFU)
We need to pray for Roy instead of criticizing Roy's decision for working in Iraq and the president not helping him. Can't some of you Amerian citizens understand, Bush would be a traitor and a hypocrite if his administration paid for Roy's freedom. Believe it or not, the power of prayer is even STRONGER than what money can do.
Posted by: Lindsey at February 01, 2005 05:22 PM (6gQ6D)
20
i just read all the comments here and one jumped out at me it is the following......Just heard on the news, they think they have found Hallum's body.
SICK!!
Posted by Pat at January 25, 2005 07:01 PM
I hope this is not true or all the work people have done and tried to do for Roy (including myself) was for nothing and I will be severley pissed. If I had the money and the resorces I would go there myself and try to get him home. But I sadly do not and all I can do is hope and pray and bitch along with the rest of you. (Oh and where is my Fatwa I feel left out. I have posted stuff on my site) anyways lets just hope that is not true....And pat where did you get this info from we would like to know.
Posted by: IronHorse at February 02, 2005 12:03 AM (lc9F1)
21
I haven't heard a thing...everyone's still talking about the fake G
I Joe Doll hoax hostage video.
Posted by: Laura at February 02, 2005 04:46 PM (ptOpl)
22
Please remember Robert Tarongoy also, the Filipino abducted together with Roy. Please, let's pray for both Roy and Robert. They are good people. Please, pray for their release soon.
I know them both, they are good men.
ivy
Posted by: ivy at February 06, 2005 05:39 AM (FBKzP)
23
i de here oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
Posted by: mugu at February 10, 2005 03:50 AM (ZGQbn)
24
Why are fellow Americans so crazy to go to Iraq. First, we totally trash their country and destroy the entire infrustructure and then we continue to terrorize most of the population. According to the only serious body count of Iraqi civillians (by the British "Lancet"), we have so far managed to kill more than 103,000, mostly women and children. Little wonder that they will continue to fight back and I for one can see why they are a little pissed with us.
A very important question. Why does the US put so little value on its citizens? The French, Turks, Russians, Italians, Japanese, Phillipinos and Chinese all manage to save their citizens. What exactly is going on? It would seem that our leadership want our boys to be topped for propagander purposes. I only hope that I am wrong but something just doesnt add up. I am concerned at the apparent callousness of our leadership.
Posted by: James at April 17, 2005 04:25 AM (hrhSl)
As close followers of this site know, a minor controversy was started when we published the name of an American civillian being held hostage in Iraq. His name first appeared as 'Roy Hallun' in a Fillipino newspaper and we republished that account here. In response to that initial post a friend of Roy contacted us and clarified that Roy's last name was actually 'Hallums'.
We published several posts about Roy Hallums, shocked that not a single mainstream media outlet had picked up on the story. Roy had been kidnapped with six other foreigners on November 1st. For weeks the State Department would only confirm that an American had been kidnapped but would not release his name. This seemed odd to us and we felt that the word should get out.
Members of Roy's family soon contacted us with words of encouragement. They too were perplexed that an American citizen could be held hostage in Iraq and yet no media would cover the story.
However, as some of you know, we took down several posts dedicated to Roy Hallums. A person close to Roy Hallums' contacted me with the concern that publicizing his account might jeopardize ongoing negotiations for his release. I was conflicted. On the one hand I felt a great deal of sympathy for this person. If I were in their shoes I would do everything possible, including paying a ransom to terrorists, for the release of my loved one. On the other hand, I wanted the whole world to know the depths of Islamofascist perfidy. As a matter of fact, my entire site is dedicated to that very goal.
In the end, the personal nature of the request won me over and I removed the posts as requested.
In the past few weeks, Roy's immediate family has been trying to get the word out about his plight and it seems the media is catching on. Just prior to my vacation I was contacted by a producer at CBS news who was trying to reach the Hallums family--I assume they ran the story although I've been out of the loop. Carrie and her mother Susan Hallums have also appeared on Good Morning America trying to get the word out about their loved one.
Carrie e-mailed me over my holiday letting me know that she had set up a web page dedicated to her father. If you have a minute I'd encourage you to go over there and look around. You can leave words of encouragement at this guest page. Also, please include Roy Hallums and his family in your prayers.
May God Bless and Protect the family of Roy Hallums, Roy himself and of all the people who have been kidnapped, held hostage, or already dead, that we know nothing about for it happens everyday and we rarely hear about it.
I have not seen anything yet on the news about this, Rusty, but glad you posted it again. There are more and probably will never hear about it unfortunately.
All my hopes and prayers go to all families and to all people who have been put in this position whether we know about it or not; the way things are going, it's possible all we can do for all these people is send them our sympathies. For those who may read this blog and have a family member missing, you can even write me with the name and date and I'm sure Rusty will add your loved one's name. There is so much we do not know and may never know. This is one name of many not listed - American or otherwise.
Cindy
Posted by: firstbrokenangel at January 11, 2005 09:02 PM (D39Vm)
2
"As a matter of fact, my entire site is dedicated to that very goal."
A big "AHEM"
Cindy
Posted by: firstbrokenangel at January 11, 2005 09:07 PM (D39Vm)
3
The question of why non-combatants continue to be in Iraq remains?
Posted by: greyrooster at January 11, 2005 09:49 PM (Vc+ll)
4
Dan Rather, CBS. Ficitious reports on Bush's military records.
Question:
If incorrect/lies reports were given to Dan Rather concerning Kerry would CBS have jumped on it with the same enthusiasm?
Would Rather continued to support lies even after they were exposed as not true?
Were reports given with election results in mind?
CBS employees getting fired to save face. Is that enough after obviously reporting lies not substantiated? Should CBS be fined?
HEY RUSTY: Time to give the Kerry supporting liberal cry babies some pay back.
GET ON IT.
Posted by: greyrooster at January 11, 2005 10:54 PM (Vc+ll)
Posted by: firstbrokenangel at January 12, 2005 02:11 AM (D39Vm)
6
Grey Rooster, you wanted to know why non-combatants are still going to Iraq - MONEY. Anyone working there is making at least $80 to $100 an hour and more for the highly skilled.
Cindy
Posted by: firstbrokenangel at January 12, 2005 07:04 AM (D39Vm)
Just a quuestion: if they were concerned before about your blog following Mr. Hallum, why are they not concerned about it anymore (including setting up their own page)? Has something changed?
Yeah, I know, that was 2 questions...
Posted by: Venom at January 12, 2005 10:09 AM (dbxVM)
Posted by: Venom at January 12, 2005 10:10 AM (dbxVM)
9
Venom,
The concern was from one person close to Roy who I'll let remain anonymous. After the MSM picked up the story and Carrie put up her own website, I felt like the cat was out of the bag. There is no reason now to restrain myself.
Posted by: Rusty at January 12, 2005 12:04 PM (JQjhA)
10
Someone wish to be a moderator? Get your own blog. Don't read my input. The arrow on the right shows how to continue on.
Posted by: greyrooster at January 12, 2005 01:16 PM (R0PwA)
Posted by: Ron Bridges at January 25, 2005 05:18 AM (B/nhD)
12
Wait, his own daughter didn't know he was living in Iraq, and she can't remember that "country near-by" where he lived just before then? Me smells hoax. I give this another 48 hours before it's snopes material.
Posted by: huh at January 25, 2005 06:07 AM (IkjJk)
13
how stupid do you have to be to NOT realize roy is reading a prepared statement from his captors? roy's family frequents this site for support. how dare someone hope in this forum that he be killed!
Posted by: legalblonde68 at January 25, 2005 11:02 AM (Z7VMU)
14
Hello,
This is your wakeup call.....
Iraq, THE ENTIRE COUNTRY is a WAR ZONE!!!!
If you go there for any reason you are subjecting yourself to whatever those who don't want you there choose to do to you.
PLEASE do your loved ones a favor and consider LONG AND HARD the choice you are making.
Then, if you've made the choice to go there PLEASE tell your loved ones to LIVE WITH IT!!!!
Posted by: Hacksaw at January 25, 2005 03:34 PM (EPVeK)
15
Hey this is a reply for the little pile of garbage "huh" who pu tin his useless 2 cents in a reply and I quote what he says Wait, his own daughter didn't know he was living in Iraq, and she can't remember that "country near-by" where he lived just before then? Me smells hoax. I give this another 48 hours before it's snopes material.
HOW DARE you, You little ignorant mother F&*%#@. I have talked to Carrie Hallums On The Phone From Here In Canada and I have followed the news closely.....THIS IS NO HOAX you ignorant little bastard. You owe the entire Hallums family an apology for your comments. Start following the news and papers before you open that hole in your face and spew out total crap. I am doing what I can from here to try and help with raising money to send to them and others are aswell we dont need to hear your lame ignorant comments. try HELPING your fellow American out here get him home safe. Dont come on here and spew crap about something you think you know about. You have proven that you know nothing about it at all and just decided to be a punk. GROW UP JACK ASS!
Posted by: IronHorse at January 25, 2005 09:14 PM (lc9F1)
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Hey Shakleford....get a better alias and stop wasting that young lady's time and hurting her more by being a coward and fooling her with all of this crap on your page. I hope that she can see past your foolishness to rescuing her faather and that he makes it home safely.
PS - too much King of the Hill is never a good thing.
Posted by: Dale Gribble at January 26, 2005 01:49 PM (yK9T7)
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Why can't President Bush help Roy Hallums? This is really frusterating to sit and watch all of these hostage videos and the government just says its classified information. Until when? Why cant the family know what is going on. They say that America is united, well if we are, then lets go save our fellow Americans from the terror that we will never be able to fathom. To Roy's family: my thoughts and prayers are with you. I will be checking back. Stay strong, love and peace
Posted by: peace at January 29, 2005 01:00 AM (i3Ipz)
In November 2006 Joshua Munns, Jonathon Cote, John Young, Bert Nussbaumer, and Paul Reuben were taken hostage near Basra by a group calling itself "The Islamic Mujahedeen Battalion", a group feared to have links to the Iranian goverment. The five worked for the Crescent Security Group, a private firm which guarded civilian convoys. 
Roy Hallums lectured about his captivity and rescue in Iraq to students at his local high school on Wednesday. Suddenly I find myself in envy of some eleventh graders.
The second part of Deborah Hastings’ story on Roy’s rescue.
Roy Hallums, the American hostage held in Iraq since November and who's cause was covered extensively at this website, is back in the U.S.
American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime. 
UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:
UPDATE 9/07/05: Roy Hallums is FREE!!!! Information and updates here.
