Day 21

There is a Saturday and it can be spent to one's self. Today, I got "almost" that. We were blessed enough to meet up at 8am vs. 6am like we did all week. That allowed us to eat in the galley where I could have cereal and whatever else I wanted...and watch a bit of Fox News on the big screen. When we meet at 6am, we eat in the classroom and have zero options: scrambled eggs, sausage links or patties, and/or grits. Oh yea, a stale bread PB&J, too. Perhaps a fruit. So that was nice this morning. At 8, we headed back to the trailers that contain the computer-animated shooting range that we had been to twice before. We shot again, using the M4 rifle in low-light conditions. Within 2 hours, we were done. In my opinion, this trainer is a total waste of time and money. I got nothing out of it...ever. Having a drill sergeant to talk to at the range with live ammo, that's valuable and I learned something every single time. Anyway, once we all finished that, we headed back to our classroom via a short bus ride and were cut loose...by 11am!

One thing I knew was coming up today was a FREE advance screening of "Thor." It doesn't even open up until next Friday but here on base, it was free at 3pm. So, we all piled into a van and headed on over. It was a packed theater and a theater with a great and cranked up sound system. I loved the movie, partly because of Natalie Portman but also because it had great special effects, story, and acting. 3 out of 4 stars!

Later, we and a few other fellow sailors headed off base. I had but 2 desires today: see Thor and get my Starbucks. I have a very short time window before no more Starbucks for a looooong time. Back in Kansas, I partake at least 3 times a week. After about a 1.8mi walk, we found it along with a local Italian restaurant. It was a bit pricey but we all decided it was a good choice tonight. I opted for the Calamari Fries: FRESH fried calamari (squid strips), thin-sliced lemon, fennel, meyer lemon aioli, and marinara. It was to die for. I then had their Insalata Di Casa as my main course: roasted beets, gorgonzola crumbles, glazed walnuts, and citrus vinaigrette. It was a fantastic meal. As we headed out, I felt a bit (actually a lot) under-dressed in my blue jeans and t-shirt as clearly, this was the place for many prom dates tonight. Immediately thereafter, I got my fix: a white chocolate mocha frappuccino light. YUM!!! Remember from two nights ago and the honeysuckle? I walked in the door of Starbucks and just inhaled as deep as I could. Oh, how I love that smell of freshly ground coffee and the sound of brewing espresso and steamed milk.

Once back on base and to our barracks, I quickly threw some clothes into the washer, showered up, and here I am. For tomorrow, I plan to attend the 9am Protestant service here on base. The chaplain here is great so I'm really looking forward to it. After that, I'm getting the heck off this base again. I may see another movie, possibly...like Fast and Furious 5 and who knows, maybe I'll end up at Starbucks again. :-) This time, maybe for 3 or 4 hours.

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 20

Being that yesterday turned into a classroom day instead of a qualification day, I thought we'd qualify today. Not so. Turns out that our pre-qual day at the range is serving as our qualification. If we scored well enough that day, then we're qualified. If we didn't, we're not qualified and won't be. For those, though, who are taking the M4 rifle forward to Oz, they were pulled aside late yesterday to qualify. Fortunate for me, I had a round two days ago that met the qualification standard, just barely. So, I get the marksmanship ribbon for the rifle. Score! Two ribbons I've always wanted and now I have them. It took me 14 years to get them but I got them...in the same week. So, instead of qualifying, we headed straight to the heavy weapons range.

50 cal

Heavy weapons = 3 different machine guns that are fully automatic and powerful. The weapons we familiarized with today was the M240, the M249 "SAW", and the infamous 50 caliber machine gun. That round for the 50cal is nearly 3/4 of an inch wide! If attached to the top of a truck or Humvee, it'll rock the entire vehicle. In the field we were shooting into were old vehicles and a variety of tanks and some silhouettes of people. This time at this particular range was a lot of fun and even nicer since we didn't have to clean the weapons. Once everyone had their turn on the three weapons, we all picked up the brass casings and boarded our buses for the next stop. (If you want to view videos of me shooting the 50cal and 249 SAW, see my "wall")

Next Stop: Reflexive Shooting and the M4 Stress Shoot. Reflexive shooting is hard to explain. The concept behind it is to be able to move quickly and swiftly in different directions and get off 2 quick rounds at the person/enemy. We first stood at 25 meters and always kept the rifle at the "extreme low ready." That means we're holding it straight up and down...barrel pointed at ground. Then, we'd be facing front, left, or right. If we were facing right, for example, the tower would announce "target left!!!!" and we'd turn our head left to look at target. (remember, we're facing right but the target/enemy is on our left). The next command would be "Ready, up!!!" and we'd pivot towards the target, raise our weapon up, place it on "Fire" and fire off 2 shots quickly then back out of the position (rifle on safe, rifle pointed at ground, and turn to the right again where we started). We did this at 25m, 15m, 10m, and 5 meters.  Then, we did it again. There is a bit of danger here, too. If someone isn't paying attention, they could raise their weapon and fire but not turn. Since there are 28 of us in a row, they would shot their fellow sailor. Not good!  So, instructors are within a few feet of each other and are even wearing kevlar vests and helmet. No incidents today but it was fun.

Next was lunch! MRE's? Nope! The ham sub sandwich was a very welcome change from the normal "entree" at the range. Thank you, thank you, thank you! That and a banana and I was good to go. I found a little pile of pine needles to sit on alone and listened to some of the new Zac Brown Band's new album on my iPod. It was shaded and a time just to unwind and get away from everyone.

The M4 Stress Shoot is similar to the M9 stress shoot a few days ago. I started seated in a HUMVEE, then got out, ran (in full body armor, by the way) around a few barriers and end behind a tall barrier, crouched to the ground to stay safe. From this point on, I stopped at several barriers and fired off shots from the standing, crouching, kneeling the prone positions. It was far more difficult than I expected... to run, get down, get up, then run again with all that armor on. Still, I actually had fun and learned a little. This video is also posted on my "wall" if you're interested.

Afterwards, we cleaned up the brass from the field and headed on back to the classroom for one singular brief...the Law of War and Rules of Engagement. After being in the hot sun in armor, I fought to stay awake. Just before that, we all cleaned our weapons to keep them in good working condition.

I think I'll call it a wrap for tonight. I am having trouble just staying awake to type this. I was up until midnight last night and up at 5am so I'm beyond pooped. I'm looking forward to a short day tomorrow, too. Not too much left to do, here!

Goodnight, everyone!

Day 19

Qualification Day: To be or not to be, that was the question. Answer? No go! Turns out that a morning riddled with lightning, and torrential downpours don't bode well for firing METAL weapons. It was the storm coming from the southwest and was expected to last all morning and into the afternoon...which it did. So as has been done countless times thus far, the schedule was readjusted to push all of our remaining in-house lectures into today. It was actually a pretty good bunch of lectures. The best, by far, was the presentation on IED's...or "Improvised Explosive Devices." They are the #1 killer of coalition forces in Oz and are expected to be into the distant future. Cheap, crude, but very effective and deadly. Often, the enemy plants them roadside and they are detonated under our convoys or suicide bombers put them in cars or strap them to their bodies and self-detonate them. The explosions are thunderous, deadly and far and away account for the majority of this country's sons and daughters who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Made from old mortar shells and stuffed with explosive, simple things like cell phones, timers, and household items make up this weapon of destruction. We were taught by a Special Forces guy...you know, the kind of guy who knows 20 different ways to kill you. He'd been there/done that and so a perfect person to teach. We also received instruction on topographical map reading (in preps for our upcoming convoy training), a tutorial on the 50 cal machine gun, the M249 "SAW", and the M240, and some training on "non-lethal weapons." OK, that was interesting. "Non-lethal" in Oz. Hmmmm....

This evening, I was invited out to the authentic Mexican restaurant outside the front gate. It was a beautiful evening and escaping Army chow was a welcome end to my day. I enjoyed a great meal and conversation then headed back over the interstate and onto the base. On the way, though, the aroma in the air caught my attention. Looking down, all I initially saw was a bunch of ground litter and trash. But buried beyond that was this fragrant honeysuckle (actual photo below). Oh, how I love the smell of honeysuckle. It reminds me of Kansas so much. Dorothy has planted it around our home and we both smell the blossoms each Spring and comment how we love it so. So buried amongst the trash was something beautiful where most people probably just ignore. Tonight, though, I enjoyed God's creation...perfect in every way. It goes to prove that even when things are trashy and seemingly not even worth a glance, something wonderful might be missed. Certainly puts the phrase "Stop the smell the roses" to the test...or should I say, "Stop the smell the honeysuckle." Yea, it's the little life-lessons and little insertions of God's beauty in my daily walk that I treasure so much. Plus, any reminder of Dorothy and seeing the smile on her face when they bloom and she smells them is a gift.

<BREAK BREAK>

That's how we totally change the topic in a Navy message. :-) This last paragraph was written about an hour after everything above. It was about 10pm, lights were turned off in the barracks and I felt an incredible tug to go out for a run. After all, the stars were out. About 1/4 mile from the barracks, there is a 1 mile asphalt oval. During the day, it's murder-by-asphalt-boredom. Tonight, though...everything but that. One thing I know is that when one sense is taken away or greatly subdued, the others are heightened. Such was this as the lights normally on to illuminate the path were out tonight. It was pitch black for most of the run. As I moved away from the barracks and parking lot, the majesty above revealed itself. Thousands of stars. At times, I was running and only looking straight up. At other times, my eyes were closed and I listened: steady breathing, my Brooks hitting the pavement, the night creatures making their repetitive sounds in the woods, the bullfrogs in the distant wetlands, and the gentle breeze rustling the trees. Then as if God wanted to put a big bow tie on it all...honeysuckle.  Not only once, but twice each time on the loop. As I ran by, I held my hands out and wide open, closed my eyes, and breathed in deeply as to take it all in and store it away. Oh how awesome it was! 

As I finished my run just shy of 5 miles, I thought about how these same stars shine above Kansas and Oz. I can look up and they will always be there, no matter where I am. My thoughts then turned to the One who painted the sky with those stars. He, too, is looking down in Kansas and wrapping His arms around Dorothy, Tin Man, and the Scarecrow. Here on the Yellow Brick Road, He does the same for me and will continue to do so all the way to Oz and back. He will never leave me (or them) nor forsake me (or them.) He promised!  "Thank you, Lord. Thank you for your message tonight. Message received...loud and clear."

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 18

Finally, a 10 hour day. Whew! I never thought it was going to happen. Today was dedicated exclusively to pre-qualification on the M4 rifle. All that really means is that we went to the range and shot the number of rounds and targets as we will tomorrow when we all attempt to qualify. For those taking the M4 to Oz (not me), they must qualify. Others "should" but it's not mandated. I, for one, plan on it. That's yet another Navy ribbon (like the one for the 9mm) that has eluded me for nearly 14 years. Shooting the M4 is so much more complicated than a pistol. For one, we were laying in wet sand (remember the hail storm from yesterday?), it was Heat Condition 5, 90F, blazing sun, and topped out humidity. By the way, sand and the M4 or any rifle for that matter don't mix. You really need to keep the weapon clean if you want it to shoot that projectile out the barrel towards the bad guys. So, crawling around in wet sand WITH all of the gear and body armor on is interesting, to say the least. Eventually, the sweat is running down the brow and into the eyes and fogging up the ballistic glasses. In the end, I did pretty good but not great. Tomorrow is the real deal and supposedly, the targets (silhouettes) are a lot easier to see and we are shooting more downhill. Both good things for the qualification. The weather is supposed to be a little bit more mild, around 80F, so that'll help, too. Today was by far, the filthiest, sweatiest day yet. Flat out nasty.

Oh yes...speaking of nasty...MRE's. Today's "entree" was beef enchilada. OK...that's a bit tough to imagine, I know. After the magical heater made it hot, it was acceptable...not wonderful, not horrible, but OK. Next cherry/raspberry cobbler. Hmmm..... "This is going to either be really good or really bad," I thought to myself. I heated it up as well and I must say, it was THE best thing I've eaten out of a MRE pack since I got here. Not bad at all. Eaten out of a green, plastic "sack" but still good. Everything else, I threw away. I instead enjoyed my banana that I had brought along.

We were also issued our chemical/biological warfare suit. It comes in a backpack-lookin' thing with a tamper seal on it. Hopefully, I'll just tote it around the world and never open it. It works in conjunction with the gas mask that I spoke of before. Big pants, jacket, hood, booties, gloves...the works. Once the bag is opened, it expires in 45 days so it's very important not to break the seal unless directed to...like in the case of a chemical/biological attack by the enemy. Wonderful...yet another heavy piece of gear to lug to Oz.

That's pretty much it for today. I am enjoying the gorgeous evening here by typing this outside while watching the sunset. It's nearly 8pm EST and 83F but a very swift breeze blowing by. Feels wonderful after being so nasty just a few hours ago.

On deck for tomorrow: like I said, we'll qualify on the M4, finally, and also start shooting some "heavy weapons." You know...the kind that can put holes in the side of buildings. :-)

A friend posted this yesterday and I've recalled it several times since then. I think it rings more true than ever for my family right now. Note: this is not to discount family at all...my family is 100% supportive of me and I/we appreciate that. "Family isn't always blood. It's the people in your life who want you in theirs; the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what." To all of you who fit this definition, my family and I THANK YOU!

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 17

That's exactly how today started. We met up at 6am, had a cruddy breakfast (I'm sick and tired of the scrambled eggs and nasty sausage...I'm stocking up on bananas from other times because of it), then loaded up the buses for the firing range. This sign was the first thing I saw when entering. The reason for being at this range was to fire through about 120 rounds using the M4 rifle and use a computer system to tell us where we were hitting and missing the targets. We shot at 75 meters, 175 meters, and 300 meters. Our targets were silhouettes which went down when hit then popped back up. By the way, 300 meters is over three football fields. We varied among the kneeling position, supported prone (on belly, using sandbags to support rifle), and unsupported prone (just you and the rifle).  We did 3 sets of 40 rounds. The first round was without body armor and the last 2 were with it. BIG difference in shooting with the armor on because of all the padding and the need to be close and intimate with the rifle. In the end, I had a few adjustments to make and by doing that, I did awesome. I actually did better with everything on because it created a more tight, controlled pose. Once we all cycled through, we cleaned our weapons and yet another meal of MRE's. Today's "meal" was vegetable lasagna. I say again...I despise these things.

Next up, the M9 "stress shoot." Here's the deal: the point of this qualification is to "stress us" while still making sure we can be accurate and maintain safety of our weapon. It was all "live fire." We started out in 90F heat, Category 5 (the highest) heat level, in full body armor. We first ran in place for 2 minutes then stop, load the first of three magazines (6 rounds each), fire off 2 shots then run forward and drop to the ground behind two sandbags and fire off 4 more rounds. While on the ground, change out the magazine, jump to our feet then run left to a pretend window and squat. 4 more shots at the silhouettes as directed by the drill sergeant. I was also accompanied by another drill sergeant who had the exclusive job of yelling at me to "stress me" and "hurry me." After the window, I ran right to squat below a barricade and got off 2 more shots before changing out another mag. New mag and 2 more shots before running to about 5 feet in front of the silhouettes and putting out my 4 final shots. If you are "friend" of mine and want to see the video I had a friend shoot of the whole thing, see my "wall." Afterwards, lots of time to sit in the shade and wait for the whole company to get their turn.

We ended up being rushed off the range, you might say. We all saw the clouds coming but those in charge apparently decided it wasn't threatening enough. The picture you see here is what we saw coming. The cool gusts of wind were starting and common sense would dictate that we seek cover. Nope! We waited until the HAIL started before getting in the buses. Remember, we all have our weapons and body armor with us. Boarding our buses is a slow process. By the time I got a seat, my back was soaked and the hail was dinging off of the windows. Nice.

To wrap the day, we cleaned our weapons to get all the carbon off and prepare for tomorrow. Tomorrow is pre-qual day. We will basically practice-shoot all day for our qualification on the M4, scheduled for Thursday. Once we shoot on Thursday and qualify, I'm guessing we will be done with all shooting except for HEAVY WEAPONS on Friday. :-)

Not too many days are left at this location. While I'll never reveal actual movements in advance on this blog, I will tell you it is drawing more near. With that comes a big step towards Oz and the more real this whole thing becomes. My days left on U.S. soil are limited now. Along with that, I will say that I'm missing home quite a bit today. Back in Kansas, the pear trees are blooming, the trees have buds on them, and the color will be bursting soon. The Tin Man will be playing soccer soon, too. I never even miss practices of hers. I love being at the field, watching her play. One thing we do every night right now...while we can...is to call and pray together at bedtime. We recap the day and just have some casual conversation. We always say "I love you" before hanging up but rarely "I miss you." Tonight, I did. I don't know what it is about those 3 words but they send a jolt of emotion through me. Man or not, I can't keep the tears from welling up when I say them. "Tin Man and Scarecrow...I love you and miss you from the deepest parts of my heart."

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 16

Hot and humid yet again today and body armor to kick it up a notch. For the morning, though, we spent it AGAIN in the classroom getting a 4hr lecture on the Laws of War and rules of the Geneva Convention. Basically, it was about being captured by the enemy. Three cups of coffee were required, though, to get me through that. My requisite espresso that I used to brew back in Kansas are greatly, greatly missed. Those used to kick my days off and these watered down cups of coffee just aren't cuttin' it...and my headaches are daily because of it. Ugh... Anyway, that was the morning and our drill sergeants were kind enough to give us MRE's again when we could have easily gone to the galley.  They totally worked us over on that one. This time, I had chili macaroni. I won't lie...I hated it. Ever since that "meal," I haven't felt right. Inside that packet was also some mixed fruit and the hard cracker with blackberry jam. Honestly, I wish I would've not had lunch.

Afterwards, we headed into the heat to do some dry runs of evolutions happening later this week. One is a "stress shoot." Picture this: we'll be rolling along in a Humvee and stop quickly as if under fire by the enemy and quickly run to cover then put rounds downrange at the enemy while running from barrier to barrier to barrier at different firing positions..standing, crouching, kneeling, and the prone (on belly) position. All while shooting live rounds.  The idea is to force stress and raise the heart-rate to see how we react. Actually, I'm looking forward to this one. Should be even more fun in full battle armor. :-) We'll also do a "reflexive shooting" evolution on the same day.  I'll wait until we do that do describe it. After that, we headed back indoors again to the electronic shooting range. Remember from last week? Well, this time we did two different things...one was with the 9mm and it was in low-light conditions...extremely low light and we shot silhouettes. The next one was much more fun. It simulated us being in a Humvee driving on the road in Oz and coming up insurgents in the road and we get into a firefight. Our job is to take out the bad guys and spare the good guys. We did awesome and I made one fatal shot on the first try. Hooah!

To wrap up the day, we headed on back and before being cut loose, they announced everyone's scores from the 9mm qualifying last Saturday. I scored a 226 which is only 2 points from getting the Expert rating!!! Expert is the highest then Sharpshooter then just qualified. So, I did qualify Sharpshooter which adds another ribbon to my uniform with a gold "S" on it. Actually, I'm perfectly happy with that. With nearly 14 years of service in the Navy, it's about time I get that. I will hopefully earn the rifle qualification ribbon later this week on the M4.

For dinner, it was nothing worth writing about but I did have dinner with a F-18 fighter pilot. I led the conversation and got us talking about the Blue Angels. He hasn't ever applied to do that but is considering it. Always cool to talk to one of these guys who have catapulted off the front of aircraft carriers and flown supersonic.  Super cool! He's one of two F-18 pilots here with all 180 of us.  Talk about a diverse group! After dinner, I cleaned up and headed out for a much needed haircut. Oh how I miss my barber back home in Kansas. It's the little things like that which I fear I've taken for granted before. I sure do wish I could take her with me to give me those perfect high-n-tight haircuts!

I downloaded Zac Brown Band's latest album via iTunes this morning. While on the way back from the haircut, I was listening to "Colder Weather" which I believe, is their current single. At the very end of the song, he (Zac) sung something that resonated with me. This little snippet is not what the song is about and honestly, I don't relate with the song but this quote I do. To my bride, Dorothy: "And when I close my eyes I see you. No matter where I am, I can smell your perfume through these whispering pines."  I guess if you knew where I am right now and saw the endless pines, this would make a little more sense. :-)

Goodnight, friends.

Day 15

"He is risen!!!  He is risen, indeed!" Happy Easter, everyone. I hope you all had a great time and took the time to celebrate the real reason for today.  Of course, an indulgence of a Reese's Peanut Butter Egg doesn't hurt, either. Today was the first day off to myself since arriving at this particular stop. One would think I would've slept in but instead, I was up until after midnight last night doing lots of sweaty laundry and up for the "son"rise service this morning. The 8am service was non-denominational and I think every Army recruit was in that room. Shaved heads to my left of 18-19 year olds and the ladies to the right.  The service was OK. Some music, a "drama" one-man presentation of Resurrection Sunday, and a few more songs. They even passed the offering plates...excuse me, the offering "trash cans." Yep, white bathroom trashcans marked by number with a Sharpie. Classy. After the exactly 1hr service, I decided to give Easter Sunday service another try and crossed the street for the 9:30am Protestant Service. Here's where I desperately missed my home church. The chaplain literally read from a cue card every word. Every prayer, the sermon...everything. He even checked the time on his watch during one prayer HE was giving! To me, scripted prayer is empty and doesn't mean much to me. My apologies to those of you who believe in that...that's just not for me. At the end, I bolted just as quick as I could from the base chapel.  To my church friends back in Kansas who may be reading this, I missed you more than you know today!!!  I greatly value your friendship and support! YOU are my family. From what I hear, you had a wonderful morning.

Afterwards, I met up with a few other fellow sailors and we walked off base and grabbed some authentic Mexican for lunch and saw the early showing for "The Conspirator." This movie, directed by Robert Redford, was about the investigation after the Abraham Lincoln assassination regarding who conspired to kill him, the vice president, and secretary of state. Pretty good movie but clear-as-day agenda being pushed by the Mr. Redford. I wish I were more knowledgeable of the facts of that historical event to know where creative license was exploited. My rating: 2 1/2 out of 4 stars. You history buffs will like it and probably give it 3.

I'm writing this earlier in the day so it's nearly time for dinner now. The only things I need to get done tonight is to clean my M4 rifle and M9 pistol. They are nasty from the range yesterday. If too much time passes, that carbon will become harder to remove. I need to stay true to cleaning them after every day at the range. I might even squeeze in a sunset run in the woods. We'll see how the evening goes and if the temperature drops. Note to self: next time, bring a pair of shorts and comfortable shirt. I was doing all of that walking today in 91F heat in a The North Face fleece and jeans. Not so enjoyable but thankful it wasn't cotton.

Almost halfway done at this particular stop. This next weeks holds a multitude of things: IED training, more range shooting and eventual qualifying on the M4, convoy operations and land navigation, and a "stress" evolution. I don't know much about that but it involves running through a course and making quick stops to fire at targets through windows then moving on to the next target.  My guess is they are going to simulate some urban situations where there are hostiles around. I plan to make the best of that and make every shot count!

Have a great week everyone....choose to make it that way!  Until tomorrow...

Day 14

FIRE!!!! Safe to say, that's the word for today. Lots and lots of ammo and lots of time spent on my stomach at the firing range. It was by far the longest day yet. It started beneath a heavy fog at 6am and didn't end until around 6:15pm. In between, we were at the firing range. First up, was our opportunity to qualify per Navy instructions on the 9mm pistol.  In 14 years of Naval service, I had yet to do this so I was happy to get the opportunity. I'm confident that I qualified but I haven't been told the level yet. It's either Expert, Sharpshooter, or simply qualified. Being qualified let's me wear a corresponding ribbon and either an "E" for Expert or "S" for Sharpshooter over it. We shot a LOT of 9mm rounds and I had a blast doing it. (pun intended!)

Next up: the M4 Carbine rifle. The weapon of choice for our soldiers in Oz. Today was not the day to qualify. It was the day to "zero" our weapon. Zeroing is fine tuning the weapon by getting ourselves comfortable with it through breathing, trigger control, and sight position and also making the necessary adjustments to the front and rear sights. Laying in a bed of very comfortable shredded tires, we shot 3 rounds at a time then approached the target to review the shot patterns with the drill sergeants.  For some, they must have been naturals. Not me, though. I was definitely getting frustrated. I would fire 2 beautifully and then the other one would be way off for who knows what reason. I just couldn't nail 3 in a row where I needed to. ARGH!!!!  Eventually, I met the standard and could leave the range but I went through a LOT of ammo to get there. I must say...getting paid to fire a M4 rifle for hours is not too shabby of a deal! :-)  After I was sent off the range, I curled up with some more Max Lucado reading before heading out into the field with everyone else to gather the brass shells.

We also were "blessed" today to have MRE's. "Meals Ready to Eat." Vacuum packed and with an incredible shelf-life. Some are good, some are tolerable, some horrendous. Today, I had vegetable lasagna. Also in the package was a cracker with jelly, brown rice, a miserable excuse for a chocolate bar, some coffee powder, and energy drink powder. The heating mechanism was pretty cool, though. You take about 40ml of water...not very much...and pour it in this long, narrow blue bag. In the bottom of this is a gauze-like material with some kind of chemical on it. As the water hits it, immediately it gets very hot. In 12 minutes, the lasagna and rice are hot...it really works!  I couldn't believe it. As for the food, it was OK. While you may be picturing nice, picturesque lasagna in a baking dish, imagine instead inside of a plastic, green vertical pouch and scooped out with a spoon.

Here's the lasagna as viewed from my vantage point. Looks good? Right?  It really wasn't that bad....sort of a cross between baby food and unable-to-identify-the components lasagna.  All in all, the entire MRE package contains about 1200 calories.

All in all, today was exhausting. The truth, though, is that even though it felt hot out, we only got to Category 2. It was Category 5 a few days ago with temps in the low 90s and high humidity. EVERYTHING is amplified when wearing body armor. EVERYTHING!  Plus, we're drinking lots of water from our CamelBaks which just makes us have to go to the bathroom more often...not easy...especially if it's you know what. :-)

This is now the longest I've been from home since both Tin Man and Scarecrow were born. Like I told Dorothy tonight, I'm fine when busy doing the Navy/Army thing. It's those quiet times when I think about them that gets to me. I have a long journey ahead, though, so I just need to buckle down and do it. Thankfully, technology assists us all and I was able to see both of my kids tonight. Thanks, Apple!

Goodnight, everyone, and please have a very Happy Easter tomorrow!  He is Risen!!!

Day 13

Boys will be boys and this was a "boys" kind of day. Yes, we had ladies with us but today involved guns, big diesel engines, and rolling an up-armored vehicle over...sorta. The day started out normally at 0700 but that'll be the last of that for awhile. Meet-up time is pushing forward by an hour tomorrow but the day is still expected to go to 1800 or 6pm. Yes, it's Saturday tomorrow. No, that doesn't matter. :-)

Today we did a sort-of round-robin evolution. 5 different stations that my company rotated through: 9mm qualifying practice, M4 targeting practice, ILAV (Iraqi Light Armored Vehicle) and Humvee familiarization, an indoor, computer driven M4 firing range (real rifles, no bullets..only virtual bullets), and the infamous HEAT trainer that I posted a video about yesterday. The 9mm practice was more about the motions we'll go through tomorrow when we qualify. Finally after well over a decade in the Navy, I will finally get that little blue ribbon...hopefully...for qualifying on the 9mm. The M4 targeting was done flat on our bellies in full armor to get used to being in that position and getting our "sight position" correct on the weapon. The ILAV is a monster...hilarious that they call it "light"...it's over 43,000 pounds!!! It is a phenomenal machine, though, and one that is saving lives in Oz. Due to it's V-shaped hull, it has a very good chance at surviving an IED blast. The  hull directs the blast outwards away from the vehicle and occupants. Same with the MRAP vehicle you may have heard of. The ILAV stands a very good chance at being one of my "chariots" as I move around in Oz someday. The Humvee is what you'd expect...an extremely wide vehicle and one that's been around since 1983. We are moving away from using them, though, due to the introduction of the ILAV and MRAP and no V-shaped hull. IED's + Humvees = not a good outcome. (IED = improvised explosive device...the main weapon used to kill our soldier/sailors/airmen/Marines...planted in the ground roadside and remotely detonated) Next was an indoor electronic range (pictured here) where we practiced getting "zeroed" in on the M4 rifle. Again, on our bellies and focusing on breathing, sight position, and trigger control. I loved doing this and would've been more than happy to stay in there all day. Real-life rifles but no bullets...against a background like what we'll find at the range..tomorrow. Afterwards, we headed on in to the HEAT trainer. I just have to refer you back to yesterday's post...that is EXACTLY how it went down.  I'm already a big guy but add full armor, heavy helmet, and everything thing else attached to me then flip me over, unbuckle my seat belt...well, I land straight on my head...and neck. Granted, that was only a few inches since I'm over 6' tall but wow, I felt that! Once unbuckled, there is certainly an adrenalin rush and a flurry of noise inside the vehicle. Plus, they purposely leave things loose in there so you get hit with things as you flip. Once I found the armored door lock, I pulled up and sorta-kinda rolled out of the door and onto my feet. I then proceeded to my corner of the vehicle, took a knee, and raised my fake rifle up, scanning the area for bad guys. Once we shouted we were all OK by counting off, it was over.  If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend!! :-)  The day was wrapped with a little bit of lecture back in the classroom on battlefield communications.  I am finding that no matter what, they will fill the day to end precisely at 6pm everyday...as if they've been threatened not to dare do anything else...or else!

Ever have pizzelles before? They are the bomb! They are Italian waffle cookies made from flour, eggs, sugar, butter, or vegetable oil. Anyway, my mom and dad sent some to me already and shockingly, they survived the trip. Thanks so much! (here's what they are if you want to see)

I had a few minutes today between evolutions and started reading a book by Max Lucado. Before I even got to Chapter 1, I read this in his intro...good enough to quote: "Change always brings fear before it brings faith. We always assume the worst before we look for the best." This time where I'm current spending along the Yellow Brick Road is a change...a drastic change for nearly everyone here. Some people choose to complain and not give there best and find the worst in everything....how very miserable to live. The alternative is what I am doing..looking for the best in everything. Am I happy to leave my family and does it make me very sad to be away from them? More than you know. But, this is happening so I might as well make the very  best out of it. Same training, different people, totally different outcomes.


Goodnight, everyone.

Day 12

Another classroom day? Are you kidding me? Easy, Grasshopper...all in time. All in time. Yes, it was another 100% classroom day but I believe it may have been the last. Today, we spent most of the morning learning combat first aid for the battlefield. Not only was it fantastic instruction, but I felt honored to be taught by someone who has been there/done that. He is a 20 year, retired Army guy and wounded warrior. His moment by moment description of when his convoy was hit by an IED was chilling, to say the least. Once he retired, he pursued the medical arena and became a paramedic and now teaches at my current location. Very good training and even some hands-on experience dressing some wounds and applying tourniquets. After that, we took a shift into chemical/biological warfare and if we were attacked. Out came our gas masks again and we stripped them down and rebuilt them. We then got to put on the "suit" that is made for a chemical attack. To wrap up the day, we were briefed on HEAT rollover training that awaits us tomorrow. It is one of 5 different things we'll do tomorrow, all in full battle armor (yes, it's 60lbs). Besides the HEAT (HMMWV Egress Assistance Trainer), we'll get more practice with our weapons tomorrow and begin convoy training. Now is the part of the training that I've most been looking forward to. Hands on, getting dirty, sweating a ton, firing the weapons, and getting ready for my mission. I think my posts here on the blog we'll become a little bit more animated in the coming days.

I'm going to call it a wrap for today. But, I beg you...please watch this video. It is a video from an Army base (one where I am NOT!) of the exact thing I'll be doing tomorrow. Remember, when you see these guys flipped over onto their heads, they are wearing full battle armor. That is a ton of weight to be inverted. My guess is that many of your jaws will drop while watching this.  Enjoy! (note: this machine replicates the cabin of an up-armored Humvee...the flipping of it simulates what often happens when they get hit with a roadside bomb...or IED. This better prepares us should that happen to us.)

Day 11

Weapons were issued yesterday so today, we got intimate with them. A well-cared for weapon is a weapon that you can have confidence in and will be there when I need it. So, the entire morning was once again spent in the classroom. We tore apart and rebuilt the M4 rifle and M9 pistol over and over again. Eventually, the slowest of the bunch paid the price in push-ups. The thing is, we're doing the Army thing here...know their tag line these days? One Army, one fight. So, we were all doing push-ups together, the Army way. Honestly, it woke me up and somehow, push-ups make a bunch of Navy guys laugh so it did lighten things up a bit. We also learned all the adjustments on the M4 which we'll need when we "zero" them in a few days at the range.

After lunch, we headed outside to 93F and high humidity. It was Category 5, black flag. If it wasn't, we would've geared up in our battle armor for this next evolution but thanks to the heat, we skipped it. We found some shade and started working on our shooting positions. As we qualify here soon, we'll be in one of three positions: Kneeling, Supported Prone or Un-supported Prone. Prone is essentially being on your belly. Supported would mean the rifle was supported by a block, sandbags, or really anything except for your body. Un-Supported would be up on the elbows. Kneeling is self-explanatory. In these positions, we focus on control, breathing, and focusing on the target. The goal in breathing is to exhale and then while holding that, fire. The reason is that no muscles are moving which can move the rifle. It creates a very, very stead shot. I was amazed how well it worked. My favorite position before doing this with the battle armor is supported prone, using the rifle's cartridge to support it. Totally flat-bodied on the ground felt the best. The toughest was kneeling. Tough to keep the rifle steady while pulling the trigger.

To wrap up the day, we had a lecture on Oz culture. From religion, to customs, do's and don'ts, geography, Oz history, and how the enemy operates in Oz. We had someone different than the drill sergeants teaching this part. This man was a retired First Sergeant who has recently visited every single location we have in Oz so he knows the country well...very well. It was a very good presentation.

After another mediocre dinner and some much anticipated FaceTime with Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow, I finally got out for a run at sunset. Given the long days (been going from 7am-6pm every day so far) and carrying our weapons with us all day, I thought I'd be too pooped. Lesson learned: you're never too pooped to run. Just get out there and do it and you'll be glad you did. It was a short run with a mixture of asphalt and trails. Word is that there are a lot of trails out there but sorta hidden. I will make a more sincere effort later to find them. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon...our only day off.

Goodnight, everyone. First Aid tomorrow morning and then "rollover" training begins. We're not talking about "stop, drop, and roll," either. Stay tuned.

Day 10

While yesterday was the day where we got all of our "goodies," today we spent entirely inside. "Death by PowerPoint" and "White Space" was the order of the day. "White Space" is the Army's term for time between evolutions when you just sit and do nothing. I like to be productive so this is taking a good bit to get used to. With that said, today was a crummy day....not entirely, but almost. The one highlight was being issued our 9mm pistols and M4 Carbine rifles. Until today, I still didn't know which weapon I'd be taking forward to Oz. It depends first on rank then mission. I don't agree, but only the 9mm is going forward with me to Oz. I know that I will have travel in Oz where that M4 would be nice to have but unfortunately, that's not my call to make. Still, I will train with it and qualify on it while at my current training location. I could be called on to use it in Oz so I need to be prepared. The training today was all weapon-related, starting with pre-briefs to briefs about the construction of them. I anticipate that tomorrow will hold more "Death by PowerPoint" and we'll be tearing them apart and learning much more about them.

We did take a pause today to make "Hydration Beads." This is just too different to this sailor to not mention it here. It's simple: 6 beads on a green lanyard. As we drink each quart of water, we move one bead up. Once we drink 6 quarts, we start moving them down for a max of 12 quarts. They recommend no more than that in one day. They aren't mandating we drink that much, though. My opinion is that this little trinket serves as a visual reminder to us and them about how good we're doing at hydrating. Remember that wet bulb I talked about yesterday? Today, it cracked 90F and was Category 5. Tomorrow, it's supposed to be more humid and go higher in temperature. I think you can imagine the issues that could come up in that heat while wearing 1" thick battle armor. That's why they measure everything constantly and keep ice packs at the ready.

Back home in Kansas, it sounds like everyone is getting in their groove nicely and perhaps even benefiting a bit from me being gone. From what I hear, the house is cleaner and everyone is getting more sleep than before! I tend to make "piles" which Dorothy doesn't much care for and those have yet to appear in the past 10 days. One thing is for certain: Dorothy, Tin Man, and the Scarecrow have such a robust hedge of protection around them, it is stronger that barbed wire. I really don't think that's an exaggeration, either. Some of those folks would put their tail on the line if the call came. We are very blessed!  For me, it brings peace which makes each day tolerable while being away.  THANK YOU to you all.

I really want to leave a quote today and who knows if this is one or not as I have no author or anything. Still, it really defines me perfectly. "I dance through the masquerade of life without wearing a mask, for being yourself is a beautiful thing."

Goodnight, friends.

Day 9

Easy: the word of the day is "Hooah!". I said that, or should I say, shouted that more times before 8am than in my entire life. "Hooah!" is the battle cry of the Army and often, the Drill Sergeants say "Hooah" with a question mark and we all reply with "Hooah!" Sort of a "Roger that?" to make sure we "get it." "HOOAH?"  HOOAH!!! So the morning started out with us in "Army" formation outside and grouped into two companies then four platoons. I'm in "C" (Charlie) Company, 4th PLT (platoon). We (C Company) then filed into a classroom for some "Army 101" training. Army Core Values, Army vs. Navy rank structure and also a very impressive introduction of our 9 drill sergeants. All experienced warriors who have fought in Oz and hand-picked to train us sailors. Many fret when they hear "drill sergeant" and think they'll treat us like we're in boot-camp. Far from it. It's nothing like that at all. Lots of respect and humor goes back and forth between us which lightens things up.

Shortly before lunch, we all boarded the bus to head on over to another part of the base where we were issued a TON of gear...seriously, it looked and felt like it!  Here's a brief rundown without pulling out the checklist and seabags stowed beneath my rack: kevlar vest with 1" thick battle armor, CamelBak for hydration, Gerber multi-tool, gloves to wear when shooting along with cold-weather gloves, many many packs that attach to the vest that serve different functions, goggles, 2 sets of ballistic sunglasses with clear lens inserts, and cold-weather gear good down to -60F. Not sure why I got that stuff...Oz isn't known to get down to anywhere near freezing. But anyway, it's required so I got it. Oh yea...the helmet. Got that, too. Since we're being anonymous here and I've disabled all GeoTag and GPS coordinates from my photos I post here (yes, I have thought of everything, I hope!), here's a shot of me today trying out my gear. Unless you can scan my retina through the glasses, I think we're safe! Yes, I am ALWAYS practicing OPSEC. (operational security).  Midway through our gear issue, the staff here did a cookout for us for any donation. Sitting in the grass with my shipmates, chowing down on a burger, chips, and Gatorade was pretty darn cool, I must admit. The sun was blazing, too. After some midday chow, we got the rest of our gear and boarded the buses for "home" at our main camp.

At this point, we had about 270 seabags on the back of a truck and quite heavy. We basically lined up and formed a chain to get them offloaded then shouted out names to get them distributed. Shortly thereafter, it was "dress up" time. We gathered under some tall pines for some shade and the drill sergeants taught us how to wear the kevlar vests and helmet...and told us what we "really" need for our time here and what we can pack and seal up for the trip to Oz...a little further down the Yellow Brick Road. It was nearing 6pm or 1800 for you military folks so we wrapped it up for the day and headed for dinner.

While some people gather around and play cards or whatever else within groups, I have quickly found my new routine here. Dinner > shower > video calls with my girls and phone calls with a variety of people. Once all that happens, I find myself here to write about the day. I like this routine..I really do. The night flies by which gets me to bed quicker and the morning is here sooner. It's not that I want time to fly but I sure do like it when it does. After all, every day down is a day closer to Kansas, right? Right.

Tomorrow? Weapons. 'nuf said!

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 8

And so there was Week #2. I said goodbye and shed tears a week ago this morning. Today, we're all toughened up and doing much better. Today being Sunday, I woke up to no alarm and just in time for breakfast at the galley. Times to eat here are pretty restrictive...only an hour-long window. It's good food, though. I've been staying away from the saturated fats (mostly!) and eating a lot of "color." Instead of making salads with dressing, I'm piling up broccoli, green/red/yellow peppers, beets, cucumber, and tuna fish. I have found that a cucumber slice, some tuna fish, and a beet slice taste pretty good together! For you who just said "yuck!", don't knock it until you try it!

Afterwards, I decided to treat this morning like any other...head to church. The Navy chaplain held a 9am service at the base chapel. Only about 10 people were there, though. I'm guessing that about 180 people are here with me so not a big showing at all. Still, though, it was very good and important for me to be there, especially on Palm Sunday. I plan to commit to church attendance throughout my deployment just like I was home. Granted, "church" may be in a tent somewhere in Oz but "church" is also not defined as any certain building. The "church" is the people so anywhere God's people gather...call it church! The building where this chapel is, is quite old. Ten stained glass windows line the side walls and in each one, the "hand of God" is coming down. See it in this photo in the background? I'm on a National Guard base so there are soldiers in each window, too. This photo really doesn't do it justice...they were super bright and beautiful. Next week is Easter and the word is, they are going to provide a bus for those interested like me to go to a larger church for a grand Easter service. Of course, I signed up for that!

After lunch, we had our first group briefings by much of the staff here.  Ground rules and some very basics of what to expect in our time. Tomorrow is gear issue.  When I say gear, I mean GEAR! Battle armor (a small 58lbs of armor), Camelbaks, and lots of other combat gear will be issued. Weapons will be tomorrow or Tuesday. I hear that in the past, they jammed previous classes with hours of PowerPoint briefs. With us, they are going to scatter them throughout my time here and show them when appropriate instead of "death by PowerPoint" upfront.  More to come on all of this. The fun is about to start!

I also got to FaceTime with family back in Kansas more tonight than ever. With the widespread WiFi signal here, I can easily walk outside my barracks to get some privacy. Everyone is doing well.

One other little tidbit to look forward to: when we eventually leave here, we will do so in a very patriotic way. Since this is the last stop before we leave the country, the Patriot Guard (envision lots and lots of motorcycles carrying American flags) will escort our buses to the airport where the VFW will be waiting to see us off.  I'm really looking forward to that day! Don't worry...I'll do my very best to capture photos to share.

Goodnight, everyone, and please have a great week!  I'm committed to doing the same here on the Yellow Brick Road.

Day 7

0300: time to get up! It was an early wake-up call and a plane to catch this morning. Before I knew it, I was in a bus packed full of sailors, hopped back on the Yellow Brick Road en route to the next training stop before heading to Oz. While many get all hyped up during travel, I simply blend into the background and relax. I try to look around and observe and soak in the surroundings. Take this photo, for example. I took many but this is one of my favorites. It always amazes me when someone slams the window shade shut on a plane when this is outside. God's creation...beautiful.

Arriving at training stop #2, I quickly found myself inside the local USO for a snack and a bottled water before heading down to get my luggage. They also arranged our travel to the base. So far, so good! Arriving on base, we were quickly notified that a tornado warning was issued so we needed to hurry inside. Hurry? My seabag was an easy 60lbs...perhaps 70. Plus, I had a loaded backpack and flight bag, also loaded. I made it in...arm a bit numb, but I made it and down came the rain. 15 minutes later...sun. Looking around, we were the first of about 200 sailors to arrive today. This morning, I woke up in a hotel room on base. Cable TV, fridge, microwave, etc....the works. Tonight? Open bay barracks!  Just like bootcamp...only 20 years later and I don't think any trash cans are going to wake us up tomorrow morning with a Company Commander screaming "Get on the line!!!!" As the day wore on, more and more fellow sailors rolled onboard, we got our check-in packet, picked up some linens for our racks, and grabbed some chow. Yep, I guess I need to start using some Army speak now. It's all Army here...some people even call it "Narmy." Hey, I'm just a sailor who clearly needs to step up and help the Army! Still a sailor! Hooyah! I digress...

Dinner was pretty good at the "dining" facility. I had some chicken and mashed potatoes then some beets, cucumbers, and cottage cheese. Ate a banana for good measure and about 16oz of water. I'm super dehydrated so a concentrated effort in the category is necessary. Afterwards, I made up my rack and got situated and here you have it...in open bay barracks with about 30-40 other guys. Then, there are several more buildings like this and the women are segregated. It wasn't only my processing site that came here. Mine plus several others from around the country all feed into this location.  We are all split up into two major "companies" and then multiple platoons within them.

Back home in Kansas today, Tin Man and Scarecrow had their dance. They decided last minute not to wear the yellow ribbons...I'm guessing they didn't match the outfits. Still, it sounds and looks like they had a wonderful time. A short while ago, I received a picture where Tin Man and her friends were all holding up a handmade banner for me. Now THAT tugged at my heart!

I have learned a few things today. One: I have some amazing friends. Today was a special day for me personally and I received messages all day long. They didn't ever seem to stop...in fact, they're still pouring in. Some really great people surround me! Two: I am a puddle of mud when it comes to my kids. It's only Day 7 but when I see a photo of them, smiling in all their joy, on a video sending me a message, or videoconferencing with them, they go straight to my heart. All defenses fall and I crumble. While life goes on at a very fast pace in Kansas lending to distractions, my heart and mind is consumed with Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow. I'll still stick to the mission and do my job but they are my everything...and you know what? I wouldn't want it any..other..way.  They are frozen into my minds and they are for what I live for.

Goodnight, friends. Quiet day on tap tomorrow but Monday is not too far away. Quiet would NOT be the word I'd use for that. :-) Hooyah!

Day 6

Today felt like a day of transition. It started with a bus ride to the supply warehouse here on base where our new uniforms were bagged up and ready to try on. Quickly, we found our bag and commenced to dump it on the floor...the easiest way to empty any seabag. Something about the smell of new military uniforms...couldn't wait to get them in the wash! A quick inventory then trying everything on. For me, the boots just didn't cut it and I had to exchange a few. After about 45 minutes, the group of about 20 or 25 re-stuffed their seabags and we headed outside for our bus ride back to our rooms. Then started the marking of everything. I had picked up some Sharpie pens that are made to survive the laundry which would mark every item that was given to me. In Oz, we all wear the same uniform and when the names on the outside are velcro, you've got to name and claim your gear. Before I finished, a visit back to the processing center was in order to complete final checkout and discuss the upcoming journey along the Yellow Brick Road. I must say, this process so far has been incredibly easy and seamless. Not normal for the Navy, that's for sure. The folks here really have their act together. Afterwards, it was time to head on back and back the box for home.

Given that I'm now finished with my Navy uniform and I need to minimize my carry-along gear, I boxed it up along with some other unneeded gear and shipped it home to Dorothy, the Tin Man and Scarecrow. I won't need any of that stuff until I return home to Kansas. After my next stop, most people have FOUR seabags of gear so the need to minimize is huge. Only the essentials on the Road.  

 After a so-so lunch...well, scratch that. After a cruddy wanna-be-Chinese-lunch-at-the-galley, it was time for 15 needle pricks. They dipped the fork-like needle in a live smallpox vaccine then pricked my upper right arm 15 times. Honestly, it didn't hurt one bit. My anthrax shot hurt worse, for sure. Supposedly, though, it will hurt. Given that it's a live vaccine, I now have to keep it covered and no scratching or getting it soaked until it scabs up and falls off.  That's supposed to happen within 30 days. They gave me a baggy with new dressings as they are needed and baggies to contain the discarded dressings and the eventual scab and then discard that in a medical hazmat container. So why the smallpox vaccine, you may be asking. Well, in 1979, the World Health Organization declared it eradicated. The concern is that in areas such as Oz, it could be used against us by the enemy. This vaccine is intended to raise our protection and stands good for 10 years after vaccination.

This evening, I decided to pass on the galley food after the yuck-lunch and instead stopped by the commissary (that's grocery store for you non-military types!) for some sushi. During the day, they have a sushi chef make up trays for purchase. I decided to go all out and got a spicy salmon roll and tuna/cream cheese roll...all raw. Back in my room, I enjoyed every bite. "Wise choice, Grasshopper!" The rest of the night was spent washing many of the uniforms to soften them up and rid my luggage of the new uniform smell. Another wise choice.

Another day, another step along the Yellow Brick Road. Hunch has it that things are about to change here in a few days. A clue: think "Army." Yep, this Navy guy is about to learn and be taught by my Army brethren what I need to know in a combat area like Oz. Lots of weapons, convoy training, first aid training, and cultural training about Oz. Heck, rumor has it that they'll even flip me over a few times. Stay tuned!

Back in Kansas, Dorothy and the kids are doing well and getting in their groove. Tin Man and Scarecrow are really looking forward to their dance tomorrow night...wrapped in yellow ribbons, of course. :-)

Goodnight, everyone.

Day 5

Got gas? I sure did this morning. The day kicked off with a gas mask fitting along with a plastic canopy over me where gas was pushed in and around me for several minutes. I had to move my head side to side, up and down, and imitated chewing gum...all intended to ensure a good, air-tight fit. About 5-10 minutes of this and the test was complete. As Dorothy said, "You look like The Fly!" We also were fit for a jacket, trousers and gloves in the event of a chemical/biological attack over in Oz. That gear will be issued to us at the next training stop along the Yellow Brick Road. A short time later, we all met up with the folks who handle our pay, etc. and verified all was correct and asked any questions we had.

Other than that, it was a very quiet day. Oh yea, I did visit the audiogram booth again and it seems that yesterday's results were skewed and after today's test, my hearing is just fine. So much for my hearing going bad as I get old.

Some shopping, dinner, and praying with Tin Man and Scarecrow over FaceTime rounded out my day. I did watch several episodes of "V" from the 80s. Dang, I loved that show.

I think we'll leave it at that today. Uniform issue is tomorrow along with my smallpox vaccine.  Oh boy, that should be fun. I plan to have my camera ready and will try to provide proof of the fork-like needle and the 15 needle pricks, laying down a live virus on my skin.

Goodnight, family and friends.

Day 4

Right out of the gate: good news. If you recall, Tin Man received two offers from friends and their dads to take her to the father/daughter dance this week. As you can imagine, my brave Scarecrow felt bad with no "date." Well, this morning her best friend's dad offered to escort her as well...with her best friend in the world. So all is well in the world! I can't wait to see photos of them and their yellow ribbons.

Shorter day as expected today. What I thought was going to be a psychological evaluation with a doc was not. I filled out a few questionnaires and they signed them...done. OK, next please! Off to dental where they did one of those panoramic scans and then to the sound-proof booth for the audiogram to test my hearing. Guess what, when I first entered the Navy 20 years ago, my hearing was one thing and today's it's another...certainly not as good as before. So, it's time for them to establish a new baseline so I'll be back tomorrow for another test so they can do that. Hearing is still within specs, though, so no concerns. Afterwards, I sat down with a Navy doc and got my bottom-line signature to go forward to Oz. Part of that was a prescription for malaria meds. One thing about being in Oz is the risk for malaria so one capsule per day is the prescription while in country. Oh joy! Only my small pox vaccine remains medically which is coming up in a few days.

Up until today, I've certainly been a bit down. Today, the sun was just too brilliant to stay inside so I laced up my Brooks, put on my Navy PT gear and headed to the gym for about 90min. Great facility here for us all to use. Lots of time on the bike and some weights afterwards...even a few minutes on the elliptical. I despise that machine! Afterwards, I headed out for a few miles with the moon high in the sky. 80F, sunny, and not a cloud in the sky. Truly a perfect weather day. After some chow, I grabbed some popcorn and saw "Country Strong" for free at the base theater. Great movie.

Not much left here to do at this stop. Tomorrow awaits gas-mask fitting and sitting down with the pay and personnel folks to make sure those things are set up correctly. Given so little to do tomorrow, I see another trip to the gym and another run on tap. Friday will be the day where the Navy uniforms get shipped home and I morph into the Army uniform...U.S. Navy stripe, though. I'll still be a sailor inside so no calling me soldier!

A friend of mine posted this tonight online and I thought it fitting as my run was more about enjoyment and little, if at all, about speed: "No matter how slow I run, I'm still faster than my couch."

Goodnight, friends.

Day 3

I'm struggling a bit today with what to talk about here. It was a pretty dry day here on the Yellow Brick Road, stop #1. The morning consisted of more briefs about topics such as sexual harassment, sexual assault, PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) and we were briefed by the command chaplain. The talk he had with us was really good as he has been deployed three times himself. He had great real-life examples and stories to tell. At the end, he asked if he could pray for us. With no objections (thank goodness!), he prayed and truth be told, the little hairs stood up on the back of my neck. It was a really heartfelt prayer for our safety going forward to Oz and for our families that we left back home. His voice shuddered a bit which showed his true sincerity and passion he had for us and his "job" as a Navy chaplain. Afterwards, he handed out New Testaments and Rosaries for those who wanted them. I grabbed myself one of the New Testaments, "military edition." After the chaplain finished his prayer, we received our legal briefs. One covered the international LOW (Law of War). Afterwards, a Navy JAG (lawyer) briefed us on wills, powers of attorney, etc. and offered up same day service this week for those who need it. Luckily, all of those matters are taken care of and in a safe place back in Kansas. Later on that afternoon, we finally received our briefing on our family's medical benefits now that we have been placed on active duty.

It was also brought to my attention today about a law that is not too old. It's called the Service-Member's Civil Relief Act. For a service-member being deployed, it lets all of the debts held by us to be lowered to a maximum of 6% interest rate. So, if someone is getting gouged on his/her credit card at 12 or 22%, the rate will be brought down to 6%. This law applies to ANY debt that existed prior to active duty...from mortgages to credit cards to auto loans. For me personally, only one loan needed to be addressed. After a quick call to USAA (insurance/finance company for the military and veterans), I found out that they do 4% AND extend it a year past the deployment. Great news! I also found out that the credit bureaus offer an Active Duty Fraud Alert. It prevents someone using our credit without our approval while gone. One visit to one of their websites and it was done.

The mid to late afternoon resembled that of a lazy vegetable.  Boredom set in and I think I may have even fell asleep in my room. One thing certainly never changes with me: I'm a loner. I prefer to be alone with my own thoughts and even if my family is a 100, 1000, or 10,000 miles away, they are all I need. They are in my thoughts and prayers and that is perfect...for me. I sure do have friends, some I consider to be my very best friends. Their number is few but I highly value them. I will also gain new friends along this journey which I hope will last a lifetime. Still, though, I'm one and one alone and that's OK. After a quick dinner post-nap, I wandered around the base just enjoying the coming sunset and light breeze. A few calls home to Kansas and a few miles later, I called it a night. Tomorrow brings a psychological review along with final looks at medical/dental records and my audiogram to check my hearing.  "Country Strong" is playing at the base theater tomorrow night for free so that's my plan.

In closing, thank you again for the support so many of you have shown my family. Today, two of the Tin Man's friends offered to take her to the Father/Daughter Dance this Friday along with their dads. The one who she is going with even suggested she wear a yellow ribbon around her waist. Not knowing what that meant, her grandma told her. Hearing her tell me this left me speechless...  Not sure why, but my heart sunk. I feel so grateful for those who have wrapped us up in their arms and provided a hedge of protection. I have to say, it brings me peace so thank you.

Goodnight.

Day 2

What a difference from one day to the next. While yesterday was filled with emotion, tears, and countless messages from friends and family, today was Monday morning...the day where everyone rolls up their sleeves, bites their bottom lips, and head into work and/or the kids go to school. That being said, it was a quiet day with morning and late afternoon calls back to Kansas. Nice to know everyone was feeling a lot better and very few tears. Most tears shed today were normal in Kansas...Scarecrow always sheds them on Monday morning before school. If you are looking for a person who dislikes Mondays immensely and is NOT a morning person, then Scarecrow is your person. It must have worked to some extent because Dorothy provided a ride to school vs. the school bus. Dorothy is doing well in her own right. She's tough as nails and will do what needs to be done. She's not absent of emotion nor is she heartless, but she's 50% of the team here and none of this came as a surprise. Now it's time to "git 'er done!"

This morning was extremely humid out and after a cleansing breakfast at the on-base galley, I headed on over to check in to the processing site. I say cleansing because I'm going to make a sincere attempt at changing up my diet. Breakfast consisted of some breakfast potatoes...very small amount and a bunch of strawberries, pineapple, grapes and two kiwi. I also had the egg whites of two hard-boiled eggs (dipped in ketchup, of course!), a grapefruit half, and a tall glass of water.

Check-in consisted of me amongst about eighty other sailors. Some heading to Oz, some to DisneyWorld, and even some down 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Reserve sailors are an interesting bunch. We're such a melting pot. You have doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmaceutical sales reps, CEOs/CFOs, government workers, business owners, and even some on unemployment who lost their jobs. The ages are equally wide-spread...those in their 20s to those in their 50s. All have a unique story to tell, all left families behind and all have a mission to accomplish in service to their country. Quickly, I realized that I'm just one of the very many. My story is my story but everyone else has their equally-important story as well along their journey. The first thing to accomplish, outside of the side conversations introducing ourselves to each other, was to shed our sailor digs for the uniform of our ultimate location. I tried on my boots, pants, jacket, and hat. Proper sizes recorded and that was that. By Thursday, name tapes and rank patches will be done and our uniforms ready to issue. I also ordered some new dog tags which in unbelievably quick fashion, I got them by the end of the day and they now hang around my neck. The rest of the day consisted of brief after brief after brief. Ironically, one brief was about talking to the press and you guessed it...OPSEC...operational security...and even blogging and social networking was mentioned. Of course, my mind quickly came to this blog and my extreme attention to detail in how and what I write...thus, the need for the "Answer Key" and the absence of all real names and locations. We also had our medical records fully reviewed and good news followed: my record is really squared away. My home base near Kansas did a GREAT job. They only thing I require is that nasty small pox vaccine and to have my hearing checked. I heard the rumblings around me, too. Others weren't so fortunate.  I expect lots of down time later this week since I have so much already done while others do not.

More briefs follow in the next few days, a time to sit down with the folks who handle my pay who will explain how things will start up and change along my journey on the Road, and even some "lawyer speak" as the JAG folks will come in and brief us. Thankfully, Dorothy and I did a mighty-fine job in that category and have our act together. Time to just relax tonight, grab some dinner at the galley, and watch some tube. I need to enjoy this downtime that will be turned on its head at my next stop and that stop is coming quick.

Today's quote which has proven itself true in the past 48 hours: "Hug them, kiss them, and tell them that you love them. Don't miss the chances that life is giving you to spend with people you love. There are no rewinds."

Day 1

Leaving Kansas was knowingly going to be the toughest day in a long time. My family had surprised me at Outback Steakhouse the night before so I was well fed, well loved, and ready to go this morning. Sitting bedside with Tin Man and Scarecrow last night was tough. We had been counting down the days as we prayed together each evening and as we sat bedside, hand in hand with the both of them, I paused...for probably an eternal minute or so, trying not to cry. "This is it. After this, we'll talk and Skype/FaceTime." We did shed some tears and Tin Man squeezed my arm so tight. We prayed probably the longest prayer ever together. We prayed for Dorothy, them, me, and all the other servicemen and women away from their families. A kiss, a hug...goodnight.

This morning came quickly and I brewed my last pot of Italian espresso until my return. That, a bowl of Kashi cereal, and I even unloaded the dishwasher, took the trash out, and washed a small batch of dirty dishes. The clock ticked by quickly and before I knew it, I released the house felines and they woke up the kids. Mental re-check of the packed bag and we headed to the airport, set to leave Kansas for Oz.

Arriving at the airport, my whole family was there again, just like at Outback along with Dorothy's parents and a few close friends. Even a few "monkeys" (think "Oz") made a few colored signs for my travel to Oz. As time drew close, we all gathered in a circle and my brother prayed for me and my family and I made my way around, hugging everyone. I must say, I was doing pretty good but that was strategic. I knew when my manly armor would be broken. Tin Man and Scarecrow possessed that ability so I saved them for last. As I knelt down in front of Scarecrow, her eyes were welling with tears and they streamed down her face. "Daddy..." I grabbed her and that was it, we were sharing tears. "I need you to do two things for me. Can you do that?" I asked her. "One: can you pray for me? Second, can you be a big helper to your mom?" A confirmed "yes" to both requests and some reassuring words that we'll talk often and even see each other over the internet. I don't know how long I knelt there but after one last hug, I let her go....and turned around and grabbed the Tin Man and picked her up. She had talked about how tough she was going to be on the way to the airport. Her leather-bound toughness that her dad "had" had crumbled, too, and she cried on my shoulder. We had the same conversation as I had with Scarecrow but with a third request: "Be a leader for Scarecrow. You're the older one, you're the leader and she looks up to you. Can you do that?" "Yes, Dad." "And remember...we're a team. We'll all be OK." More hugs, more tears, and I let her go... Dorothy, she was next and last. I have to say, she was staying strong. I saw her eyes getting red but she was fighting the good fight. A few goodbye kisses, some hugs, and we said goodbye. "We'll be fine," she said. Through security and to the gate with one last wave across the security access point's head and that was it. It would take another 15 minutes or so for those tears to dry up.

I won't bore you with flight info for this day on the Yellow Brick Road, except to say that I sat next to very nice lady on the first flight. Her name was Jennifer and she works at a church near my home. She asked where I was going and after telling her "Oz," we talked about that and a whole bunch of things for the rest of the flight. Oz culture, customs and our mission over there and a lot of really good talk about prejudices that exist in this world, our country, and how it all compares to Oz culture and the radical side of it. (yes, that was a bit of a run-on sentence but I couldn't figure out how to make it right! I wasn't an English major, ya know!) After a 5 hour layover at my first stop, I ended up at the first stop on journey to Oz where I'll remain for about a week.

Here at this stop on the Yellow Brick Road, I will be checked to make sure my medical record is squared away and get the beloved small pox vaccine. They will basically prick me 15 times with a prong-like needle. From what I hear, it's the most non-enjoyable shot of them all and hurts bad. I will also sit through a bunch of briefs that cover pay/entitlements, family matters, and other misc. items. I will also be fit for and issued the uniform that I'll wear in Oz. Since there are no Navy bases in Oz, this sailor nor any sailor wears a sailor's uniform over there. We wear the uniform of the service who operates the base. So that's what I'll be issued. After all the boxes are checked and my uniforms are issued, I'll continue along the Road.

So as this days winds down and alone time sets in, I can verify with you that Day 1 is one of, if not the very hardest days of the deployment. I can easily crawl inside my head and get very upset or distract myself by finding something to watch on TV. The base where I'm at even offers a theater with current movies...for free. Perhaps later this week I will do that...Black Swan, Kings Speech...we'll see. I did get to FaceTime with my family tonight and I saw smiles in place of tears which was nice. I ran across this quote today: "Being happy doesn't mean everything is perfect; it means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections and enjoy every day." What a great quote for a day where we could all hang our head in doom-n-gloom. Instead, we can decide to be happy.