Bob Woodruff: Why I’ve Gone Back to Iraq
EmailABC's Bob Woodruff reports:
Today I have traveled back to Iraq for the first time since I was injured with my cameraman, Doug Vogt, three years ago. It has not been an easy decision to make this trip. I have deliberated with my family, my colleagues at ABC News and the US Military, with whom I am traveling.
I have spent many years covering wars and areas of conflict during my journalism career. I have always had great respect for the military, the contractors, and the reporters who continue to return to these dangerous places either for service, vocation or commitment.
I was in Iraq for the seventh time when I was injured. None of us ever could have imagined then that I would ever be able to go back, or even report again.
I will return this time with different parameters. Covering this war has changed very much since I first embedded during the 2003 invasion. But I have wanted to "get back on the horse again" since my recovery. This will be a different horse, probably not as big, not as fast and without running outside the "wire." This means that I will stay on the US military bases without going out on the streets or battle zones like I have in the past. I owe this not only to myself, but to my family, friends, colleagues and my new "brothers and sisters" also injured in the war whose stories I have been reporting since I've returned.
I have many goals with this trip. I want to visit the doctors, nurses and medics who are putting their own lives at risk to save others. I would like to understand first-hand the status of the war and learn more about what the US role will be. I want to view first-hand the new equipment and vehicles that reduce the numbers of injured.
I feel extremely privileged to be back to reporting and to have recovered as well as I did. It is an honor for me to continue to highlight the stories of this conflict to our audience.
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Your family is very brave to go along with this. I admire your drive. What you, your wife and family have done to highlight the brain injuries among our troops (your foundation, books, specials) is truly inspiring. I would hope that everyone of our troops would receive the kind of care/rehab you did in order to achieve the same kind of outcome. Keep up the great work and stay safe.
Posted by: J | July 13, 2009, 8:59 am 8:59 am
Just stay save.
Posted by: Bert | July 13, 2009, 9:28 am 9:28 am
May our Lord be with you as you make that trip and bring you back safely to your family. Take care.
Posted by: rebecca blea | July 13, 2009, 9:35 am 9:35 am
Hoorah, Bob!
You are the inspiration for healing from this war and have moved help to so many that would not have seen any. Keep that head down and return safe.
Bless this family with Peace and Comfort.
Posted by: DeeAdams | July 13, 2009, 9:52 am 9:52 am
Bob, you have done so much to bring important truths to the forefront of American news coverage. I salute you for such honorable service. Please be careful and come back safe and sound. We need you and your unique, courageous journalistic perspective.
Posted by: J. Robinson | July 13, 2009, 10:16 am 10:16 am
A part of me thinks ‘Wow, good for him to be able to come full circle!’ Another part of me thinks ‘there must be some other way for him to fight his demons.” But in the end, someone has to go there and tell the story. Stay safe, and if you’re bringing Doug with you, watch each others back. You two have been through enough.
Posted by: mom2laz | July 13, 2009, 10:23 am 10:23 am
I wish you safe travel and a safe return. And my thoughts will be with your family while you are away.
Posted by: guenthecat | July 13, 2009, 10:30 am 10:30 am
Your story is one of the most remarkable of the times. It is a shame that the conditions in Iraq are still so dicey for so many. I would like to hear about whether the people of Iraq are being able to find a voice for a common humanity, after all that has happened.
Posted by: ABCNUser | July 13, 2009, 10:32 am 10:32 am
May God Bless you and protect you and your family. Thank you for your dedication and devotion.
Posted by: bea | July 13, 2009, 10:43 am 10:43 am
Good luck Bob!
Posted by: coloradorocket123 | July 13, 2009, 10:52 am 10:52 am
Good luck Bob safe and don’t take any chances that you don’t need to.Keep reporting,God Bless
Posted by: Rodger n Ingram | July 13, 2009, 11:11 am 11:11 am
I said this on Tapper’s post, but I’m so proud of Woodruff and his family that I want to post it here as well:
Fantastic News. I can’t believe that it has been three years!
Bob Woodruff is a remarkably brave reporter. And, while he never hesitates to tell it like he sees it, he has become a great advocate for our solders, sailors, and marines that have returned home with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), etc.
(On a personal note, Bob and his wife are both Colgate University graduates– Bob and others like Chris Hedges make us alums proud!)
Posted by: DanWill | July 13, 2009, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm
Bob, thank you to you and your family for your strength and courage to continue to bring front line news to the US regarding Iraq. Your continued news coverage and the truth of what is happening is greatly appreciated.
Please thank the military medical personnel for me as well. Our own son who is in the US Army suffered a TBI (&PTSD) after being in Iraq last fall for only a few short weeks. He is now awaiting clearance for return to active duty in order to continue his mission to serve his country.
God bless you on your continued journey, God bless our serving soldiers and keep yourself safe.
Posted by: cmnthruparalegal | July 13, 2009, 12:31 pm 12:31 pm
Safe travels, Bob. I am glad that you are continuing your work & look forward to your continued advocacy for our military personnel and sufferers of TBI. Godspeed.
Posted by: jyippee | July 13, 2009, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm
You know, I do admire your courage to ‘get back on the horse’… but after all your wife and children have been through – could you make it a short trip? Just imagine if you came that close to losing your wife – of course you’d support her decision to go back – you’d have a tough time getting through the day, though, with worrying about her. Short trip, Bob. You’ve got nothing to prove!
Posted by: sevresblue | July 13, 2009, 1:19 pm 1:19 pm
Bob, you are the man for having the courage and faith to return back. Props to you and to all the soldiers that show the same courage in going back whether voluntarily or by order. Stay safe out there, look forward to hearing the reports.
Posted by: JohnB | July 13, 2009, 1:19 pm 1:19 pm
Good luck, and may God Bless you and all of our men and women serving in the military.
Posted by: Kathy | July 13, 2009, 1:27 pm 1:27 pm
Mr. Bob Woodruff: Well I pray for you and your loved ones just as the many other Americans who have served and continue to serve America.
Journalists in a war area are providing so much for the freedoms so many from past eras have sacrificed for all.
May The Lord continue to watch over you in your life’s work and profession and provide your family with Blessed assurance of that care.
Sincere Thanks Mr. Woodruff. Return in God’s speed.
Mr. Don W. Powers
California.
Posted by: Don W. Powers | July 13, 2009, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm
I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Posted by: Brian, Atlanta, GA | July 13, 2009, 1:37 pm 1:37 pm
Stay safe.
Posted by: mike m | July 13, 2009, 1:46 pm 1:46 pm
Bob-
As a personal friend of yours since our law school days I wish you nothing but the best while over there. I would be less than honest to say that I wanted to see you back in Iraq again but knowing the person that you are it is where you should be. God bless and take care.
Kendall
Posted by: kendall james | July 13, 2009, 1:50 pm 1:50 pm
While I applaud you going back to Iraq, you’re not going to get a true picture simply by staying on the US military bases 100% of the time.
Posted by: Lola LB | July 13, 2009, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm
God Bless you Bob – you are my hero……..
To Lola LB, the last comment, you must be joking -
He already almost gave 100% of himself last time around – give the guy a break.
Posted by: sandy | July 13, 2009, 2:06 pm 2:06 pm
Good luck to you, Mr. Woodward. I have followed your story and am grateful to see your recovery.
Be careful, and come back soon…because the work you’re doing here is important as well.
Posted by: Sue Anderson | July 13, 2009, 2:33 pm 2:33 pm
Bob, Keep a low profile as we all want to see it back on the aire again soon! Good luck and Godspeed.
Posted by: Kev Vaughn | July 13, 2009, 2:38 pm 2:38 pm
My son is currently in Iraq with the USMC and I truly admire your returning there this month! Good for you! I loved reading your wife’s book and always enjoyed your reporting! Can’t wait to read about your visit! Give all the USMC service men and women hugs and kisses for all of us!!!
Kathy
New Jersey
Posted by: Kathy | July 13, 2009, 2:39 pm 2:39 pm
Our son was shot down on January 15,2006 just before you had your accident.
We have always kept you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: BJ Kenyon | July 13, 2009, 2:54 pm 2:54 pm
I still remember the photo of you in which how much injured you were. Please be careful this time. Good luck.
Posted by: aidi | July 13, 2009, 2:59 pm 2:59 pm
Get back on the horse Bob, go for it. I rode for years professionally and it works. Maybe because you know adversity you can give me a hand with your contacts to get my story out there about alcoholism and drug addiction/recovery. I know you have an awesome comeback story and I do as well, check out my web site and get back to me when you have some time. I’ll be praying for you. You will be fine.
Posted by: Gordon Rouston | July 13, 2009, 3:17 pm 3:17 pm
You’re a bad ass, Bob. You have my respect.
Posted by: e | July 13, 2009, 3:34 pm 3:34 pm
I am proud to know you and to also working for those who have helped our military in any way. Bob, you are the best.
Posted by: Pam | July 13, 2009, 3:36 pm 3:36 pm
Hi Bob:
We met in Houston a while back now, on a book signing stint you were making along with your wife. Are you related to Judy Woodruff? Just curious…
Travel safe, Bob. I look forward to the stories that you will be reporting. How are the brain injuries being reported among the insurgent’s being dealt with, and is there any medical care for them? That might make an interesting angle on a story for you…
Again. be safe. My best to you and your family.
Posted by: CFPWD | July 13, 2009, 3:52 pm 3:52 pm
There are many soldiers that are returning to Iraq after spending many months at Walter Reed Medical Center for stabilization and to prepare for the return deployment.
My son in 2007 lost his right dominant arm and severe damage to both his legs. Returned to Iraq this year.
It is tough to return and get back on that horse but these are young men that make the decisions to return. You are not alone and I admire the soldier and you for your duty. Thank you
Posted by: Gloria | July 13, 2009, 3:52 pm 3:52 pm
God bless you and the other reporters who are trying so hard to keep us aware and informed back home.
Be safe.
Posted by: Michelle | July 13, 2009, 4:00 pm 4:00 pm
What courage…praying for your safety whhile there and a safe return to your family & friends and all of us who enjoy your brand of journalism.
Posted by: Lorraine | July 13, 2009, 4:04 pm 4:04 pm
This is amazing! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Posted by: Cam | July 13, 2009, 4:23 pm 4:23 pm
What an amazing tribute to our service men and women that you are going back into the lion’s den. You are one of the fortunate ones. Earn it.
Now seek out the truth and report it.
Posted by: Dan, New Hampshire | July 13, 2009, 4:35 pm 4:35 pm
Be Safe!
Posted by: bcsrule | July 13, 2009, 4:48 pm 4:48 pm
BOB: PLEASE STAY SAFE. YOU ARE A SMART MAN AND I KNOW YOU WILL BE CAREFUL.
Posted by: MKJOHNSTON | July 13, 2009, 4:55 pm 4:55 pm
Nice to hear that Woodruff’s injuries are healed enough for him to return to work. It takes courage to go back into a situation that caused personal injury.
Still, I have to wonder why this country is caught up in celebrity worship. Michael Jackson fans who never met him cried at his death. Some still worship Elvis. The south is full of ‘3′ stickers and ‘In Memory of Dale’.
Nice that you’re doing better and able to return to work. So is the electrician who lives down the street but it wasn’t a news story.
Posted by: Oonogil | July 13, 2009, 5:19 pm 5:19 pm
If Mr. Woodruff does decide to return to Iraq, the fervent hope is that he will objectively realize once he is there there is little reason to have “great respect for the military [and] the contractors…” as these people are involved in the occupation of a country and people who never threatened anyone in these United States. More than a million Iraqis have been killed since the United States illegally and immorally invaded their country and over 2 million of them have been displaced from their homes while another two million Iraqis have had to flee to other countries in order to find someplace for their families to live. Perhaps having been away for three years will give Bob Woodruff an understanding that an Iraqi, like an American, should not be humiliated or threatened or tortured by an invading force like the U.S. military or a mercenary force from the U.S. has unjustifiably done to those people.
Posted by: Erroll | July 13, 2009, 6:06 pm 6:06 pm
It is good to see Woodruff “back on the horse” He has done so much for the wounded warriors by spotlighting their problems. It enabled the rest of us to understand their injuries and care about them as people, not something we did during the Viet Nam war. Woodruff is to be commended for his excellent and caring reports.
Posted by: DessaBells | July 13, 2009, 6:46 pm 6:46 pm
Your courage in recovery, and your desire to “get back on the horse” career-wise and to continue to tell important stories, are inspirational. Good luck to you, Bob.
Posted by: Keith | July 13, 2009, 7:05 pm 7:05 pm
Bob:
Have a safe trip and good luck to you. What a remarkable achievement to have an opprtunity to do this.
Posted by: Alison Johnstone | July 13, 2009, 7:08 pm 7:08 pm
as a retiree who was retired due to injuries in OIF back in 2007 all I can say is welcome to the POG forces you deserve the break glad you family and friends talked some sence into you. God Speed.
Posted by: w k bahr | July 13, 2009, 7:21 pm 7:21 pm
Having read your book and heard both you and your wife speak numerous times,
I can only ask God to watch over you.
I know that previously you promised your wife, you would never put yourself in harm’s way again….I hope that you stay safe.
Posted by: Cathy larsen Hastings | July 13, 2009, 8:02 pm 8:02 pm
Bless you and keep you and other soldiers that go back to the war. Hope you stay safe.
Posted by: Jessica | July 13, 2009, 8:30 pm 8:30 pm
A second chance. Good luck, but count your blessings and stay safe.
Posted by: GJ | July 13, 2009, 8:35 pm 8:35 pm
Bob Woodruff is a diehard. If I were him, I wouldn’t dare return to Iraq. That will bring back bad memories. He should count his blessings, and take time to enjoy life with his family.
Posted by: what667 | July 13, 2009, 9:17 pm 9:17 pm
I am always in awe of those who show such true bravery! Don’t forget the stories of all the civilians who have been injured as a result of this war. We should never forget how many children whose lives have been destroyed by this war.
Posted by: Collette Niland | July 13, 2009, 9:58 pm 9:58 pm
Dear Bob,
I’m proud of you
For all you’ve done.
The hardest choice made
No regrets, follow through
A winner to be amoung.
Stay safe, Mart
Posted by: Martin L Amberly | July 13, 2009, 10:00 pm 10:00 pm
Bob— Your selflessness reminds me of this quote by Mary Baker Eddy:
“Blessed is that man who seeth his brother’s need and supplieth it, seeking his own in another’s good.”
I will be checking on your progress, and cherishing your good motives in this work. Best regards!
Posted by: Judy | July 13, 2009, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm
Bob;
I do wish you wouldn’t go back! it was hard wrenching reading the book chronicling your battle to survive the last time. Please be careful.
Posted by: Beaty | July 13, 2009, 11:26 pm 11:26 pm
Come back safe and sound. This country needs all of it’s warriors to return safely and speak to the needs of those not quite so lucky. My prayers are with you and your family.
Posted by: Sandy | July 14, 2009, 12:03 am 12:03 am
Bob,
You look amazing! I saw the ABC show on what happened to you after that awful brain trauma. You really look like you’re back to your old self again! That must have taken a lot of self discipline and courage. Glad to see you returning to TV journalism.
Posted by: t961585 | July 14, 2009, 3:35 am 3:35 am
Without guy/gals like Mr. Woodruff, the real truth about war would never be told. It humanizes the story from both sides. American soldiers, we’ve lost too many, one young man, Johnathan Ayers, lies right here in our hometown cemetery, his sacrifice eternal. I pray Mr. Woodruff’s trip will give him peace and closure. God bless the USA!
Posted by: Gnyshdenuf | July 14, 2009, 8:30 am 8:30 am
After what you have been through, and what your family has been through, I think this is a foolhardy decision. There are plenty of able bodied, willing journalists who are capable, and there are many other avenues you could / should explore as a journalist.
Posted by: Linda | July 14, 2009, 9:34 am 9:34 am
Your loyalty to journalism is so brave. Your wife and family should be honored with courage and blessings from God. God will be there with you no matter what as long you give yourself to him. Take care of yourself and come home safely.
Posted by: Ethel M | July 14, 2009, 9:37 am 9:37 am
As the wife of a newsman, (who, incidentally, has been in Iraq three times {in a different capacity than Bob’s missions, but it has been dangerous just the same}) I fully understand both your position and that of your family. My husband lives by the credo “there is no substitute for being there”! It has been ingrained in his mentality year after year, and is reinforced by the deep sense of satisfaction that the news business has given him…by his love of his chosen profession, and his desire to tell the stories that he has covered over the years. I’m sure that everyone remembers that on that fatal day of 9/11, while everyone was running AWAY from the World Trade Center site, the news media were running TOWARD it.
This is what they do…this is what they love. And their families understand and respect that.
That being said, you are courageous to “get back on the horse”, and your family is courageous to support your mission!
Travel safely and give us some great reports!! And do as my husband did…call your family every day!!!
Posted by: Lorri Scott | July 14, 2009, 9:43 am 9:43 am
God speed but remember, soldiers go back to war every day with much much less fanfare.
Posted by: Matt | July 14, 2009, 10:07 am 10:07 am
Best wishes on your return. You are an inspiration, especially for our dedicated troops who also suffer from TBI.
Respectfully,
“Tears of a Warrior”
Posted by: Tony & Janet Seahorn | July 14, 2009, 10:16 am 10:16 am
Bob-
I didn’t get to say good luck but know that we are thinking of you. This is a huge part of our entire families recovery process. We feared that you would one day have to return but now that it is upon us I personally feel a sense of relieve. So sorry that you got sand kicked in your face once again and good luck in Kabul. Love you brother!
James Woodruff
Posted by: James Woodruff | July 14, 2009, 11:03 am 11:03 am
Bob, I can truly admire your determination in pursuing your goals and ambitions. I suffered a stroke Dec 28, 2008, and although I am well on the road to recovery, I still have some goals that I strive daily to accomplish. Keep up the good work, take time to understand that their are more important things in life than money or a job, put GOD first, and everything else will fall in place. Whenever I feel a little down, I say to myself, “NEVER GIVE UP, LIFE IS SO SHORT” Enjoy today and the gifts that GOD has so graciously bestowed upon you.
Gene
Posted by: Gene Quidley | July 14, 2009, 11:47 am 11:47 am
Mr. Woodward, you should have your head examined, with all due respect.
I read your lovely wife’s book. Did you forget what happened to you over there the last time?
While I support our military personnel, this seems more of a personal mission at best, or a ratings ploy at worst.
As a journalist displaced from my job due to the economy, I can tell you that what you’re doing is foolish and not worth it. Reporting from inside the wire? Give me a break.
But you’re in my prayers for a safe journey.
Posted by: James Wicks | July 14, 2009, 3:52 pm 3:52 pm
Bob,
Please report the truth of the health teams in the war zones. Include the type of care these health professional provide not only to their team but to the surrounding war torn population.
Posted by: Tami White | July 17, 2009, 2:10 pm 2:10 pm
You and the soldiers over there are always in our prayers for your safety and abundant shower of blessing and guidance. God bless.
Posted by: lea | July 18, 2009, 9:30 am 9:30 am
God’s blessings to you Bob Woodruff and
your family, and of course to all the troops who are serving. Be well and safe.
Posted by: Barbara Samuel | July 19, 2009, 5:17 pm 5:17 pm
Dear Bob Please Stay Safe, but with all do respect I think you did damage your head on critical thinking skills. Remember your family is first and they suffered a lot with your past injury. We learned a lot from you because of it, but please return back to them safe. Take Care, Mel
Posted by: mel | July 20, 2009, 5:38 pm 5:38 pm
Bob your so brave to go back there.
Cant believe its been 3 yrs since your
accident. times goes by so fast.
think of you often.
Posted by: Lisa brownlee | July 28, 2009, 7:30 pm 7:30 pm
Bob, I applaud your courage for going back into the battle. You have been saved for a purpose and you are focused on telling the “true” story. May God continue to keep and bless you and your family. Stay safe and may you have “Peace”
Posted by: Bobbi T - Pittsburgh, PA | August 11, 2009, 1:32 pm 1:32 pm
Bob you are my inspiration. The day I saw you on TV after you recovered from your massive injuries, I said to myself I want to be like this guy if I got injured, And I did got injured in IRAQ while working as a translator to us commander and I did recover well even if my doctors did not believe I would do so well in one year period.
The reason I did well is God and my believe to never give up the hope and your picture in my mind. Also my goal if my wife and two daughters allow going back to Baghdad.
May God bless your wonderful family.
Peace on you.
Posted by: Neil Daniel | August 20, 2009, 12:04 pm 12:04 pm
Bob Woodruff, I have been following your recovering process ever since your injury, I just saw you on TV with the royal couble Prince Williams and bride Kate in Canada visit. Saw you on fantastic conditions, I would like to know more about your therapies for the speech, my son suffered a stroke 2007 and is struggling to recover his normality for speech (he is 42 yrrs old)
I read article on Parade by your wife
Lee in July 12 2009, encouraging Brain
injury victims to recovery. Would
appreciate more information, methods,
places, doctors,thank you very much.
Sadith (mother)
Posted by: Sadith Aguilera | July 6, 2011, 8:10 pm 8:10 pm
Dear Bob I saw your show on beyond belief and I have been searching all my life for someone that had gone beyond the light and the 11 year old boy you featured is the closes one I have found that I have been able to associate with my near death experince.No one ever goes passed the light I know I went passed the light and I did see God and it was real and I know with no doubt that there is a life after this one and there is a purpose of why we are here on earth.
Posted by: Essie | August 4, 2011, 12:50 am 12:50 am
Having a head injury myself but not as as yours. It has been some ruff years since my injury. I hope all is well and if you are ever in MN i will make you dinner
Sgt Bill deroche USMC
Posted by: Bill DeRoche | August 19, 2011, 10:47 pm 10:47 pm