He served one tour in Afghanistan before twice going to Iraq.

Solace found in slain soldier's newborn

Iowa Guardsmen Are Proud but Disappointed

Tour Extended by Bush Plan Is a Sacrifice Keenly Felt, Battalion Commander Says

By Christian Davenport

Washington Post Staff WriterSunday, February 11, 2007; A15

AL ASAD, Iraq -- Army Spec. Jesse Espinosa figured he was down to just six more missions off this base west of Baghdad. Six more missions in the turret of his armored vehicle, fingertip at the trigger, performing duty so dangerous soldiers here liken it to Russian roulette: providing convoy security along supply routes in deadly Anbar province.

Six more missions, then home to his wife, three children and civilian job as a cook in Bricelyn, Minn.

But all that has to wait.

The deployment of his unit, the Iowa National Guard's 1st Battalion, 133rd Infantry Regiment, was recently extended for up to 125 days because of President Bush's decision to temporarily increase troop levels in Iraq. Like many of his fellow soldiers, Espinosa, 24, was upset because "almost every mission we see at least one" roadside bomb, he said. Although most times, the soldiers are able to spot them before they blow up, he said.

Now, instead of getting back by March, his homecoming will likely be July or August. And instead of six, Espinosa, has about 40 more missions to go.

The Iowa guardsmen have accepted the extended duty, while absorbing the anxieties of their families, said Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Corell, the battalion commander. "You won't find anyone ready to throw in the towel and walk away from what they're doing," he said. "They're proud of their sacrifice." >>> cont Wanna bet, who says?

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