With public opinion swinging hard against the war in Iraq, and frustration mounting about progress made in Afghanistan, American soldiers know challenges exist on and off the battlefield. But as I found out while I was embedded with troops from the 1st Infantry Division during their training at Fort Irwin, Calif., soldiers just ask for the support of the public.

They know that the public has problems with the war, five years in and more than 4,000 Americans dead. But to keep the morale of our fighting men and women high, they ask that you give them the benefit of the doubt. Hear their own words here (more below):

And even though questions remain about the efficacy of the battle being fought in Iraq, the Army trains hard to replicate the environment the troops will face. Using the expertise of Hollywood effects wizards and the good will of Iraqi expatriates, the training troops get at Fort Irwin is the best there is. Here's glimpse of what the experience at Fort Irwin.

Lastly, returning veterans have serious problems with the existing GI Bill, which they say has been outpaced by the economy, and rising costs of tuition and textbooks. Here's how one Kansan wants the bill to be amended: