Ok...I think I spelled this Afghan party time wrong...it's not "Ead"...it's "Eid". Yep, the trucks have stopped country-wide and they are gone from the base. From yesterday through tomorrow or Friday, the partying continues and then they all return to driving trucks and opening their shops and bazaars back up on our base. I dropped off my laundry this morning which normally has Afghans working it except for this one girl from up north (former Soviet Union area) and only she was there. I knew something was different when I walked into rock music playing. "Eid?" I asked. Sure 'nuf. I also see them in large groups walking down the sidewalk with an escort all day, every day but not one today. They really do all return home and just celebrate for this 3-4 day stretch each year at the end of Ramadan. Unfortunately, the "cease fire" that was supposed to happen hasn't happened. Last night as I wrote, we had the 2nd rocket attack in a row. This one hit the airfield and wounded an Air Force person and damaged two aircraft. No deaths, though...thank goodness.
Today was normal, pretty much. I did have an extended lunch including a Green Beans Mocha Frappe and about 3 games of Scrabble against my iPad. As the day wore on, I made a few calls back Stateside, had a conference call with my counterparts Stateside, then headed on out, caught a shuttle/bus back to my side of the base, and called it a night. Homemade pizza tonight at the dining facility...pretty good, actually. I wasn't feeling like a run was in order tonight so instead headed in for the night.
OK...anonymous. Yes...pretty much. No specifics...no dates...no future events. All this known as OPSEC...or operational security. But, I have to say one little tidbit. It's very general but I've gotta say...today is August 31st. Surprise, surprise! It's a landmark, too. It's the last 31st of the month that I'll be in this country. The "Yellow Brick Road" is general enough and spans over 10,000 miles so it's safe to say I'll be "somewhere" on it the next time the calendar ticks across a 31st of the month. I won't be home...but I won't be HERE. Hallelujah!!! Not only am I kicking August square in the teeth tonight but no more "31st of the months." Feel good days are coming...I just know it...just gotta keep my head screwed on straight and my mind in the right place.
Not much else today...it was a decent day and one I'm ready to end and ready to seal August up. Bring it, September...you're standing in the way of good times. Move it!
Goodnight, everyone.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Day 143
Hi everyone...I'm back. Thanks for your patience and prayers. Many reached out to check in on me and my answer to all was that I'm just in a rough patch right now and prayers would be appreciated. Anonymous or not, there are times where I don't want to share, don't want to write, and need to step away. I'm not saying it won't happen again but it was necessary...so thanks.
Today was Tin Man and Scarecrow's first day of school...but first, I woke up in the 4 o'clock hour..that's A.M., by the way which is in the 8 o'clock P.M. hour for you. One thing that I always, always do back home is pray bedside with my girls. If they happen to be at Grandma and Grandpa's for the night or somewhere else, that prayer normally happens via phone call. Well, with the start of school today and them heading to bed early since it was a school night, I thought it would be worth waking up to try and pray with them via Skype. Even if I can't make the video work, at least we would have audio and could have a 7,000 mile prayer. So, we did. They had just returned home from the Open House at school and after a quick shower, they took a seat in the living room, me laying in my bed in Afghanistan, and we prayed. Well, they prayed...we take turns and they wanted to go first. Isn't that cool? How many kids volunteer to pray? Mine do! Anyway, I closed my eyes and let them pray...first Tin Man then Scarecrow. Tin Man is now in 5th Grade and has grown up so much. Scarecrow is now in 3rd Grade and has a very unique talent which I've mentioned before...she can rip my heart out by just speaking to me. I don't know what it is...I miss her no more than Tin Man...but that voice...geez, I don't understand it. So, when I heard her praying...praying for the new school year...thanking God for what He has provided, then praying for my safety...I won't lie. Those tears were flowing...all over my pillow as I laid in the dark. I didn't let them hear my weakness and wished them a good night sleep and told them I'd call in the morning before it was time to board the school bus. I'm really not that emotional of a guy, but these last 3 days? Emotional is "one" word to describe those days. Having such a thin shell these days is certainly not normal for me...extremely rare back home. I don't shy away from it, though. To me, it's a reminder that the link still exists...that regardless of distance and time, my 3 girls are everything to me...and it is for them that I serve and for them that I get up everyday to make another "X" on the calendar. I really, really believe that I am nothing without all of them...they are an extension of me and me of them. We are a family and we will survive.
After a call home after they got up, they headed off to school and me, I opened up a few care packages from home. My youngest brother's wife made some homemade goodies, sent some kids' artwork, and Kashi cereal which was amazing timing as I ran out this morning. A doctor who Dorothy works with also sent a care package...some running stuff, some Kashi cereal, too, and more art! I was really blessed by those two packages and everything about them was perfect. After gathering my stuff up, I caught a shuttle back to the other side of the base and grabbed some dinner, put it in my fridge, and laced up my shoes for a run. We actually got rain earlier today...enough to keep the dust down plus there was no wind tonight...perfect running conditions and I wasn't going to miss it. As I headed out, I first checked out a concrete wall that was hit last night by another rocket. I wanted to see it as it was the closest to my room since I got here. Our whole structure shook when it hit and we remained locked down for 51 minutes. See that flag on my blog? This rocket flew right by that flag...but you know what? Old Glory is flying tonight...she always flies. I had a great 10 mile run and then enjoyed the salad I brought back earlier along with some care package items.
So Day 143...it's a wrap. The last day of August is tomorrow and marks Day 1 of "Ead." It's the end of Ramadan and is the 3-5 day celebration part where everything stops for Afghans. Many Afghans drive trucks throughout the country with our gear and during Ead, they stop...totally stop for the entire time and then hop back in and continue after Ead. With Ramadan supposedly being so holy to Afghans, I'm surprised by the increased rocket attacks this month. In fact, as I have been typing this, we've been hit again. It wasn't as significant a boom as last night, but it didn't feel very far away. As always, I'll find out tomorrow. Hopefully, the "all clear" will be given soon.
It's been weird...to watch my girls go back to school. When I left, it was Spring and school was in session. Then, school ended, summer break started, summer happened, and now school is back in session and I missed it all. The good news? It's another landmark. So is September 1st.
Goodnight, everyone.
Today was Tin Man and Scarecrow's first day of school...but first, I woke up in the 4 o'clock hour..that's A.M., by the way which is in the 8 o'clock P.M. hour for you. One thing that I always, always do back home is pray bedside with my girls. If they happen to be at Grandma and Grandpa's for the night or somewhere else, that prayer normally happens via phone call. Well, with the start of school today and them heading to bed early since it was a school night, I thought it would be worth waking up to try and pray with them via Skype. Even if I can't make the video work, at least we would have audio and could have a 7,000 mile prayer. So, we did. They had just returned home from the Open House at school and after a quick shower, they took a seat in the living room, me laying in my bed in Afghanistan, and we prayed. Well, they prayed...we take turns and they wanted to go first. Isn't that cool? How many kids volunteer to pray? Mine do! Anyway, I closed my eyes and let them pray...first Tin Man then Scarecrow. Tin Man is now in 5th Grade and has grown up so much. Scarecrow is now in 3rd Grade and has a very unique talent which I've mentioned before...she can rip my heart out by just speaking to me. I don't know what it is...I miss her no more than Tin Man...but that voice...geez, I don't understand it. So, when I heard her praying...praying for the new school year...thanking God for what He has provided, then praying for my safety...I won't lie. Those tears were flowing...all over my pillow as I laid in the dark. I didn't let them hear my weakness and wished them a good night sleep and told them I'd call in the morning before it was time to board the school bus. I'm really not that emotional of a guy, but these last 3 days? Emotional is "one" word to describe those days. Having such a thin shell these days is certainly not normal for me...extremely rare back home. I don't shy away from it, though. To me, it's a reminder that the link still exists...that regardless of distance and time, my 3 girls are everything to me...and it is for them that I serve and for them that I get up everyday to make another "X" on the calendar. I really, really believe that I am nothing without all of them...they are an extension of me and me of them. We are a family and we will survive.
After a call home after they got up, they headed off to school and me, I opened up a few care packages from home. My youngest brother's wife made some homemade goodies, sent some kids' artwork, and Kashi cereal which was amazing timing as I ran out this morning. A doctor who Dorothy works with also sent a care package...some running stuff, some Kashi cereal, too, and more art! I was really blessed by those two packages and everything about them was perfect. After gathering my stuff up, I caught a shuttle back to the other side of the base and grabbed some dinner, put it in my fridge, and laced up my shoes for a run. We actually got rain earlier today...enough to keep the dust down plus there was no wind tonight...perfect running conditions and I wasn't going to miss it. As I headed out, I first checked out a concrete wall that was hit last night by another rocket. I wanted to see it as it was the closest to my room since I got here. Our whole structure shook when it hit and we remained locked down for 51 minutes. See that flag on my blog? This rocket flew right by that flag...but you know what? Old Glory is flying tonight...she always flies. I had a great 10 mile run and then enjoyed the salad I brought back earlier along with some care package items.
So Day 143...it's a wrap. The last day of August is tomorrow and marks Day 1 of "Ead." It's the end of Ramadan and is the 3-5 day celebration part where everything stops for Afghans. Many Afghans drive trucks throughout the country with our gear and during Ead, they stop...totally stop for the entire time and then hop back in and continue after Ead. With Ramadan supposedly being so holy to Afghans, I'm surprised by the increased rocket attacks this month. In fact, as I have been typing this, we've been hit again. It wasn't as significant a boom as last night, but it didn't feel very far away. As always, I'll find out tomorrow. Hopefully, the "all clear" will be given soon.
It's been weird...to watch my girls go back to school. When I left, it was Spring and school was in session. Then, school ended, summer break started, summer happened, and now school is back in session and I missed it all. The good news? It's another landmark. So is September 1st.
Goodnight, everyone.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
Day 139
It's 11pm as I start this...a late post tonight. I'm fighting the sleepiness and the pillow is screaming my name. To ensure no days are missed, some fresh brewed, full leaf Passion Tea is keeping my eyelids open. I actually have some stuff to talk about, so here we go.
The day started good but quickly took a nosedive about 30 seconds after walking into the office this morning. Clearly, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed and felt like taking it out on me. The irony is that it came after my cheerful "Good morning!" after I walked in. Luckily, I had a 9am meeting to get to so I got some work done then beat feet out of there. The meeting is about 1/2 mile away so it's a good walk in the heat. Afterwards, I walked across the street to the gym and signed up for the 9/11K. Yea, it's an 11K run (what is that? like 7 miles or something?) on 9/11. 9/11 falls on a Sunday so I figured, why not? It'll be great to do something to commemorate 10 years since the attack on our country. How ironic that I will be in Afghanistan on the 10th anniversary. Had they not attacked us, I would not be here and neither would we. (we = 100,000 troops) After signing up, I headed on back and luckily, the others were heading out. More work then a very late lunch by myself followed by some more Scrabble matches with my iPad at Green Beans Coffee. The late lunch removed me from the office a bit more when the others would be coming back. It's all strategy to get myself some "me" time...which I was feeling was very necessary today. The rest of the day was fairly uneventful. I did get a call, though, from Iraq. A friend from back home is also deployed with the Army in Iraq and we'll be getting home to "Kansas" within a week of each other. Can you envision the party we're going to throw to celebrate us BOTH returning to "Kansas?" I can't wait...it's going to be EPIC!!! Before I left the office, I talked to Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow. The girls are enjoying their last few days of summer at the fair before school starts back on Tuesday. I headed on out and left the others behind. I was done so after the late one last night, I wasn't waiting around when my work was done. I caught the shuttle and went and got my 2 week haircut before heading back to my room.
One thing I noticed on the way back to my room was the lack of wind tonight. Very calm which is very rare. Definitely a night not to miss to run. I laced up my shoes and hit the road with the goal of 8 miles around the perimeter. It was barely 7pm when I headed out but it was dark already. Days are certainly getting shorter. I felt really good tonight and ran a very slow, comfortable pace. The stars were out, too. As I finished the loop, I really wanted some more miles so I continued on. This run tonight was special...with the stress of being here, the constant thoughts of my 3 girls at home, and the relational "dynamics" I'm around everyday, this run just washed away all the garbage and all was well...if only temporarily. Just me...beating shoes on the asphalt...my breathing...no gusting wind...and those stars...wow, the stars were amazing tonight. At one point, I just stopped, stretched my arms out as far as I could reach and stared upwards at them. They were beautiful and they are the same stars my friends and family see back home. It felt like a connection to home...my thoughts were already swirling with them so this just felt really, really good. I was already "floating" a bit from the run and this just put the icing on the cake. After my momentary "awe" of the sky, I continued on for awhile until I wrapped up the run with a 1/2 marathon...13.1 miles. What a great run! Yea, it was definitely one of "those" runs that us runners get blessed with every now and then.
Back in my room, it was a dinner via care packages. Chicken Salad on crackers and an ice cream bar I had stashed in my college-sized fridge/freezer over a month ago. That's all I ate...which explains why I don't feel so good but I'll be asleep soon. I'll eat a hearty breakfast...I promise. So with that, it's about 20min past 11pm and I'm going to be asleep within minutes. I'm happy to wrap up and put a nail in 139. Tomorrow's day is another good one to hit...a nice round number.
Goodnight, everyone.
The day started good but quickly took a nosedive about 30 seconds after walking into the office this morning. Clearly, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed and felt like taking it out on me. The irony is that it came after my cheerful "Good morning!" after I walked in. Luckily, I had a 9am meeting to get to so I got some work done then beat feet out of there. The meeting is about 1/2 mile away so it's a good walk in the heat. Afterwards, I walked across the street to the gym and signed up for the 9/11K. Yea, it's an 11K run (what is that? like 7 miles or something?) on 9/11. 9/11 falls on a Sunday so I figured, why not? It'll be great to do something to commemorate 10 years since the attack on our country. How ironic that I will be in Afghanistan on the 10th anniversary. Had they not attacked us, I would not be here and neither would we. (we = 100,000 troops) After signing up, I headed on back and luckily, the others were heading out. More work then a very late lunch by myself followed by some more Scrabble matches with my iPad at Green Beans Coffee. The late lunch removed me from the office a bit more when the others would be coming back. It's all strategy to get myself some "me" time...which I was feeling was very necessary today. The rest of the day was fairly uneventful. I did get a call, though, from Iraq. A friend from back home is also deployed with the Army in Iraq and we'll be getting home to "Kansas" within a week of each other. Can you envision the party we're going to throw to celebrate us BOTH returning to "Kansas?" I can't wait...it's going to be EPIC!!! Before I left the office, I talked to Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow. The girls are enjoying their last few days of summer at the fair before school starts back on Tuesday. I headed on out and left the others behind. I was done so after the late one last night, I wasn't waiting around when my work was done. I caught the shuttle and went and got my 2 week haircut before heading back to my room.
One thing I noticed on the way back to my room was the lack of wind tonight. Very calm which is very rare. Definitely a night not to miss to run. I laced up my shoes and hit the road with the goal of 8 miles around the perimeter. It was barely 7pm when I headed out but it was dark already. Days are certainly getting shorter. I felt really good tonight and ran a very slow, comfortable pace. The stars were out, too. As I finished the loop, I really wanted some more miles so I continued on. This run tonight was special...with the stress of being here, the constant thoughts of my 3 girls at home, and the relational "dynamics" I'm around everyday, this run just washed away all the garbage and all was well...if only temporarily. Just me...beating shoes on the asphalt...my breathing...no gusting wind...and those stars...wow, the stars were amazing tonight. At one point, I just stopped, stretched my arms out as far as I could reach and stared upwards at them. They were beautiful and they are the same stars my friends and family see back home. It felt like a connection to home...my thoughts were already swirling with them so this just felt really, really good. I was already "floating" a bit from the run and this just put the icing on the cake. After my momentary "awe" of the sky, I continued on for awhile until I wrapped up the run with a 1/2 marathon...13.1 miles. What a great run! Yea, it was definitely one of "those" runs that us runners get blessed with every now and then.
Back in my room, it was a dinner via care packages. Chicken Salad on crackers and an ice cream bar I had stashed in my college-sized fridge/freezer over a month ago. That's all I ate...which explains why I don't feel so good but I'll be asleep soon. I'll eat a hearty breakfast...I promise. So with that, it's about 20min past 11pm and I'm going to be asleep within minutes. I'm happy to wrap up and put a nail in 139. Tomorrow's day is another good one to hit...a nice round number.
Goodnight, everyone.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Day 138
A 14 hour workday? Yea, perhaps the longest one to date. I don't track these but when the clock is approaching 9pm and I started at 7am, it's a bit daunting. All-in-all, a productive day. The boss is traveling again so it was pretty quiet, too. Hardly anyone from the brigade walks in and bothers us, the phone rarely rings, and we just keep to ourselves. Our team is based out of the headquarters here but aren't technically attached to them. They pretty much house us and that's it. So for some in the building, we're the outsiders and treated as such. Plus, they're all active-duty Army and I'm a Navy reservist...so you can see how that goes. Our boss is active duty Army, though, so that's why we get all the attention when he's around...plus he is pretty senior.
Anyway...yet again, not a whole heck of a lot to talk about today. Ultimately, we were kept around for some high profile visitors tonight. The leadership of a Special Forces unit was visiting and I've been working with one of their special ops officers in getting them material. Tonight wasn't the night to duck out early when the special ops guys are coming over with their boss who is a full-bird colonel. Their civilian supply person from the States was also tagging along who wanted to finally meet me and hear about everything I've done out here. It was actually a really good visit and worth staying around for. It's kinda cool to brag on what I've accomplished so far and to look the colonel in the face and tell him what I'm doing for his guys...and to have one of his guys vouch for me. Sweet, indeed. I'll admit, I wanted to bring up the 30 fallen SEALs and soldiers to them because no doubt, some of them were probably carrying those flag-draped caskets back on Day 121. The conversation and atmosphere was too positive, though, and it would've been completely inappropriate. Still, I wanted to hear about some of the men because surely, some of these folks knew them personally.
Once we said our goodbyes and exchanged countless handshakes, we headed on back to our rooms...past 9pm now. A little bit of popcorn, a few e-mails (including one from Dorothy who received her Peace Lily at work today :-)))) ) and some TV. Day 138...bye bye, now. Don't come around here no more, no more, no more, no more!!!!
Goodnight, everyone.
Anyway...yet again, not a whole heck of a lot to talk about today. Ultimately, we were kept around for some high profile visitors tonight. The leadership of a Special Forces unit was visiting and I've been working with one of their special ops officers in getting them material. Tonight wasn't the night to duck out early when the special ops guys are coming over with their boss who is a full-bird colonel. Their civilian supply person from the States was also tagging along who wanted to finally meet me and hear about everything I've done out here. It was actually a really good visit and worth staying around for. It's kinda cool to brag on what I've accomplished so far and to look the colonel in the face and tell him what I'm doing for his guys...and to have one of his guys vouch for me. Sweet, indeed. I'll admit, I wanted to bring up the 30 fallen SEALs and soldiers to them because no doubt, some of them were probably carrying those flag-draped caskets back on Day 121. The conversation and atmosphere was too positive, though, and it would've been completely inappropriate. Still, I wanted to hear about some of the men because surely, some of these folks knew them personally.
Once we said our goodbyes and exchanged countless handshakes, we headed on back to our rooms...past 9pm now. A little bit of popcorn, a few e-mails (including one from Dorothy who received her Peace Lily at work today :-)))) ) and some TV. Day 138...bye bye, now. Don't come around here no more, no more, no more, no more!!!!
Goodnight, everyone.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Day 137
So far in this blog, things tend to just present themselves to write about. You've seen the posts...they aren't short and I've got plenty to say. Not so these days...I feel like I'm running on cruise control right now and just don't have much to say. Days are long, days are busy, and I'm making a difference through what I do. All in all, though...pretty uneventful. Without a doubt, I'm considered the subject-matter-expert when comes to getting many assets into this country fastest and most efficiently. On cruise control, I find the job easier and easier everyday yet it is growing exponentially. What I turn over to the lucky person who relieves me will be a monster...but it'll be strong and healthy. So, as things are cruising, everyone in my office is looking to the future...
Future...the only thing any of us care about in the future is going home. As that time approaches, I can sense that attitudes and the fun factor will increase. Even though it's still a ways out, the knowledge that we're all on the downhill slide helps everything. Part of planning our departures is awards. There are some medals we earn just for being here like the NATO medal, the Afghanistan Campaign medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, and if you recall a LONG time ago, I earned my ribbons for the M4 rifle and 9mm handgun. So there's 5 right there. The other awards in the making are commendation medals...pretty high up medals and will be higher than anything I've ever received in my 14 years of service. Since only we know what we truly do in detail, we often write up our own narratives then route that input up the chain of command for approval. If all goes to plan, I'll receive two commendation medals...not one. One will be a joint medal since I work in a joint environment (all 4 services: Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines) and the other will be Army specific one since I am so heavily involved with them as customers. I'm estimating now that I will have provided over $40 million worth of material by the time I leave. That starts at the order and tracking that all the way until it hits the ground in country. I really didn't realize how much I've accomplished in the short period of time until I wrote it all down. I know now that when I leave, I will feel good about being here and what I accomplished. I will be confident in my service to the warfighter and that was the goal all along. I can only hope the momentum continues once I leave.
Like I said, the day was uneventful and we escaped from the office sometime between 6 and 7. Back at the room, I downloaded some apps, watched some TV, talked to my youngest brother who called me on Skype, and wrapped up my blog post for the night. Really...that's all that's to it! Hump Day done and downward slide to the weekend. Time for bed...
Goodnight, everyone.
Future...the only thing any of us care about in the future is going home. As that time approaches, I can sense that attitudes and the fun factor will increase. Even though it's still a ways out, the knowledge that we're all on the downhill slide helps everything. Part of planning our departures is awards. There are some medals we earn just for being here like the NATO medal, the Afghanistan Campaign medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, and if you recall a LONG time ago, I earned my ribbons for the M4 rifle and 9mm handgun. So there's 5 right there. The other awards in the making are commendation medals...pretty high up medals and will be higher than anything I've ever received in my 14 years of service. Since only we know what we truly do in detail, we often write up our own narratives then route that input up the chain of command for approval. If all goes to plan, I'll receive two commendation medals...not one. One will be a joint medal since I work in a joint environment (all 4 services: Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines) and the other will be Army specific one since I am so heavily involved with them as customers. I'm estimating now that I will have provided over $40 million worth of material by the time I leave. That starts at the order and tracking that all the way until it hits the ground in country. I really didn't realize how much I've accomplished in the short period of time until I wrote it all down. I know now that when I leave, I will feel good about being here and what I accomplished. I will be confident in my service to the warfighter and that was the goal all along. I can only hope the momentum continues once I leave.
Like I said, the day was uneventful and we escaped from the office sometime between 6 and 7. Back at the room, I downloaded some apps, watched some TV, talked to my youngest brother who called me on Skype, and wrapped up my blog post for the night. Really...that's all that's to it! Hump Day done and downward slide to the weekend. Time for bed...
Goodnight, everyone.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Day 136
Another day, another dollar, and another step towards HOME. It was another very busy day but I did manage to slip away for an extended lunch and grabbed some Green Beans Coffee and my favorite Iced Espresso Chai Latte. I hung out for about an hour and did my best to beat my iPad at Scrabble. Sometimes I beat it and often it destroys me. Still some me-time to de-compress after a crazy morning. The rest of the day stayed just as busy and mid-afternoon came quick. Once 6pm rolled around, I headed on out, caught the base shuttle, and headed on back to my room. I quickly got changed and headed out for a nice and relaxing perimeter run of 8 miles around the base. I caught two F-16s taking off right over my head, too. I had F-15s fly directly over me before but not F-16s. The F-16s are loud but not anything like the F-15s...perhaps because they only have one engine. Regardless, awesome to stand there and let them fly right over me, afterburners blazing. Afterwards, some e-mails, TV and relaxing and that's about it. Not much else to talk about today! Day 136...goodbye. Don't need you anymore!
Goodnight, everyone.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Day 135
Another slow Monday today, 12 hours worked, Mongolian BBQ with lots and lots of mixed veggies and chicken and my favorite praline ice cream afterwards...that pretty much sums up the day. Mondays are always, always slow as I wait for the east coast folks to get to work on Monday morning and provide the support we need out here. The rest of the week should cruise. I did talk to Dorothy and the girls so as always, that was the highlight of my day. As for writing about much else today? I'm just not feelin' it. Time to call it a night. Oh yea, I did receive another anonymous "Cup of Joe" via Green Beans Coffee. I enjoyed a Mocha Frappe, thanks to he or she...whomever and wherever they are!
Goodnight, everyone.
Goodnight, everyone.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Day 134
Sorry for leaving you hanging last night. When I signed off, we were still locked down due to another rocket attack. The "all clear" was finally given 40 minutes after the attack...the longest since I've been here. Most are 30min or less. When we get hit, flight operations are ceased and often, I'll hear Blackhawks take off right after the attack to go do some recon. I went outside after the all clear and could see a fire burning in the distance the entire sky was filled with smoke. Clearly, they succeeded this time by hitting something. My hope and prayer immediately turned to life here on my base...I hoped it was only a building and people did not lose their lives.
I woke up this morning to the familiar sound of Skype. It's not annoying at all...very few people Skype me and any of them are welcome to wake me up early. It's always worth it. Today, it was "Dorothy." I was deep in sleep so she got the groggy, pre-espresso me. We talked for nearly an hour...just awesome to spend that time with her and wake up to her voice. We didn't do the video thing because it really hurt the audio quality. Without the video, it was very good. Afterwards, I rolled over and dug deep into my sheets and went back to sleep. It's Sunday, after all! Eventually mid-morning, I did head on in to the office and worked for about 6 hours. Usually, I'm not busy at all on Sundays but I was today. I also uploaded some photos from last night and my promotion video. I did check on the attack last night. Turns out they destroyed a compound of one of our coalition partner's. They hit another area, too. In all, no one was killed but we did have a handful of soldiers wounded. What was truly amazing to me was that I felt it and it was on the other side of the base. I swore it was near me last night but it really wasn't. I am thankful for no casualties and thankful I was nowhere near it. "Dorothy...I'm still safe and plan to come home to you that way."
As the day ended, I stopped on the way back to my room at another cookout and goodbye to another member of our team. We said goodbye to her last night but she wanted to have her own thing. Grilled chicken and potato salad were on the menu and fairly good...but nothing like last night. They also had the best near-beer I've ever had. I had it once before on Memorial Day. Remember when I traveled the first time and arrived back here on base on Memorial Day to the sounds of a band at the USO? On that day, they were serving these green bottles of German near-beer. No, it's not the cruddy Beck's, it's St. Pauli Girl, N.A. Oh so good! For those wondering, alcohol is forbidden over here. Ever since Day 1 of combat training back in the U.S., it has been strictly forbidden because we were issued weapons and have them with us...loaded...24 hours a day. So yea, I "suppose" the rule makes sense! After the festivities, I headed on back to my room and relaxed for the remainder of the evening...watched a movie, took in some NASCAR from Michigan, and Skype'd with my parents. With that, Day 134 is sealed. Time for yet another Monday and Day 135.
Goodnight, everyone.
I woke up this morning to the familiar sound of Skype. It's not annoying at all...very few people Skype me and any of them are welcome to wake me up early. It's always worth it. Today, it was "Dorothy." I was deep in sleep so she got the groggy, pre-espresso me. We talked for nearly an hour...just awesome to spend that time with her and wake up to her voice. We didn't do the video thing because it really hurt the audio quality. Without the video, it was very good. Afterwards, I rolled over and dug deep into my sheets and went back to sleep. It's Sunday, after all! Eventually mid-morning, I did head on in to the office and worked for about 6 hours. Usually, I'm not busy at all on Sundays but I was today. I also uploaded some photos from last night and my promotion video. I did check on the attack last night. Turns out they destroyed a compound of one of our coalition partner's. They hit another area, too. In all, no one was killed but we did have a handful of soldiers wounded. What was truly amazing to me was that I felt it and it was on the other side of the base. I swore it was near me last night but it really wasn't. I am thankful for no casualties and thankful I was nowhere near it. "Dorothy...I'm still safe and plan to come home to you that way."
As the day ended, I stopped on the way back to my room at another cookout and goodbye to another member of our team. We said goodbye to her last night but she wanted to have her own thing. Grilled chicken and potato salad were on the menu and fairly good...but nothing like last night. They also had the best near-beer I've ever had. I had it once before on Memorial Day. Remember when I traveled the first time and arrived back here on base on Memorial Day to the sounds of a band at the USO? On that day, they were serving these green bottles of German near-beer. No, it's not the cruddy Beck's, it's St. Pauli Girl, N.A. Oh so good! For those wondering, alcohol is forbidden over here. Ever since Day 1 of combat training back in the U.S., it has been strictly forbidden because we were issued weapons and have them with us...loaded...24 hours a day. So yea, I "suppose" the rule makes sense! After the festivities, I headed on back to my room and relaxed for the remainder of the evening...watched a movie, took in some NASCAR from Michigan, and Skype'd with my parents. With that, Day 134 is sealed. Time for yet another Monday and Day 135.
Goodnight, everyone.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Day 133
So where to start? Day 133...nothing really special about that. Another calendar week closed out...yea, that's pretty cool. Only one more full week of August left...oh yea, I sure do like that. Marinated grilled chicken and steak during another one of our Hail & Farewells? Awesome and so delicious! Along with that Hail & Farewell, I was also promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. For any of you who might understand Army rank, that's the same as Captain in the Army. Whichever way you slice it, it's an O-3 or in my case, an O-3E meaning that I'm prior enlisted.
The day was busy, busy, busy today. Surprising for a Saturday but if you recall, just about a month ago I traveled to the northern part of the country for the 2nd time where I briefed about 25 combat engineers. Well, they poured on the orders to me...to the tune of about $3 million! All at once, too. So, almost my entire day was working on that with them to get it all sent Stateside to be worked on. In the background in the office, though, steak was marinated, drinks procured, and all the tables and chairs for the new outdoor patio outside the brigade headquarters where I work. As the day wore on, my commander from my reserve unit back in "Kansas" arrived who would read me my oath today. It's been the plan for nearly a year now that on this day, if we could connect and be in the same place, I'd like him to be the one to read me my Oath of Office. Like they say...if you don't plan, you plan to fail! Well, we planned and did so very well.
So as 5:30pm rolled around and we finished our weekly staff meeting, we headed on outside where about 25-30 had gathered and in the air, all we could smell was the grill...oh so good...especially over here. I had made the agenda which was to be my promotion, dinner on the patio, then our Hail and Farewells. I wanted to create a clear distinction between my promotion and the folks we were saying goodbye to and those we were saying welcome to. That was the reason for tonight..not my promotion, so I didn't want to take away from it. We gathered everyone up under the new gazebo and my commander and I took our spots up front. He started with a few words to thank everyone for stepping out for our country and to come forward into Harms Way to serve. Many whom I work with are civilian government employees...not just military so his words were meant to everyone. After that, I stood at attention, raised my right hand, and reported the following words: "I (my name) do solemnly reaffirm that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will continue to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution and the Country whose course it directs, and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation. So help me God." I then lowered my hand and my commander tore off my LTJG (O-2) patch from my chest and replaced with my LT patch. We shook hands and that was it! When we did shake, the commander had a surprise...a Navy Lieutenant gold coin that had the raised eagle on one side and on the other, some Navy ships and engraved at the bottom was "20 AUG 2011 / AFGHANISTAN". That was a really cool gift. He also gave me his bright silver lieutenant bars which you see in my hand above. Again...a total surprise. After my oath and the coin, I said a few words to those who were there and then we continued on with the festivities of the night. It's always great to break bread with others and relax a bit. It's also great to see people break down a bit and say their goodbyes and receive awards. Every Hail & Farewell has been great so far. What's really cool is that the next time we have one, I will be getting the "Farewell!" OH YEA!!!! OK, don't get too excited...still a ways off!!! I'm not that short yet!!!
After cleaning up the patio, we headed on back to our side of the base. I ducked in quickly to the chow hall for some praline ice cream. I had a super craving for it and couldn't pass it up. Afterwards, I worked on the video I had shot of my oath (currently uploading....very, very, VERY slow!), relaxed in front of the TV, and blogged. Truth be told...this blog was interrupted by about a half hour. While today was actually a pretty good day, it was made real again where I am. As I type these words, we're quarantined into our rooms and cannot go out because we were just rocketed again. I ended up having to call everyone tonight for a full accountability. Right now, I'm waiting for the "All Clear" but haven't heard it yet. This one is lasting longer than the others...it's already been 30-40 minutes since I felt the rumble. Yea...I felt this one. It doesn't mean it was that close but who knows. I distinctly felt 2 - 3 impacts. Tomorrow, I'll read the intel report and see how close it really was. I'm guessing it wasn't too close or I'd hear stuff going on outside my room. So yea...Ramadan or not, they (the Taliban) don't give up. They just cross their fingers and send those rockets over the wall, hoping they get someone. Sorry to end today on a sour note but hey, it's real. With that, I'm going to continue to wait for the "All Clear" then shower and head to bed.
Goodnight, everyone.
After cleaning up the patio, we headed on back to our side of the base. I ducked in quickly to the chow hall for some praline ice cream. I had a super craving for it and couldn't pass it up. Afterwards, I worked on the video I had shot of my oath (currently uploading....very, very, VERY slow!), relaxed in front of the TV, and blogged. Truth be told...this blog was interrupted by about a half hour. While today was actually a pretty good day, it was made real again where I am. As I type these words, we're quarantined into our rooms and cannot go out because we were just rocketed again. I ended up having to call everyone tonight for a full accountability. Right now, I'm waiting for the "All Clear" but haven't heard it yet. This one is lasting longer than the others...it's already been 30-40 minutes since I felt the rumble. Yea...I felt this one. It doesn't mean it was that close but who knows. I distinctly felt 2 - 3 impacts. Tomorrow, I'll read the intel report and see how close it really was. I'm guessing it wasn't too close or I'd hear stuff going on outside my room. So yea...Ramadan or not, they (the Taliban) don't give up. They just cross their fingers and send those rockets over the wall, hoping they get someone. Sorry to end today on a sour note but hey, it's real. With that, I'm going to continue to wait for the "All Clear" then shower and head to bed.
Goodnight, everyone.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Day 132
Hey, before I forget...I forgot one little tidbit from last night during my run. While I was on my 10 miler and passing by the tail end of the airstrip, I was fortunate again to be in the right place, at the right time. Two back-to-back F-15E Strike Eagles were taking off...in the dark of night, and right over my head! At night, all you can see is their gray silhouette and the blue, glowing afterburner cone coming out both of their engines. Not only is it a brilliant sight to see, but the sound is deafening right as they pass over. That was the only time I stopped running last night during my run and I'll do it every time!
Today was pretty busy all day. I had my normal Friday morning meeting with those who run the base. Just before that, though, I signed up officially for the Air Force Marathon on September 17th. (here's the scoop on their deployed marathon program) The marathon that will take place on the same day at Wright Patterson Air Force Base is sold out but open to all deployed service-members. We'll be considered official finishers and receive the tech tee and finisher's medal. Pretty awesome! My 26th marathon will certainly be one I will never forget.
After the morning meeting, I stopped by the Joint Task Force headquarters who rule over the whole eastern part of the country to work with an Air Force officer on policy she is writing and needed my input. After that, some lunch, then back to the office. The remainder of the day went pretty quick and wrapped up with the planning for tomorrow's Hail and Farewell AND my promotion! The steak and chicken are thawed and we're good to go! Back in my room tonight, I spent quite a bit of time researching Bed & Breakfast locations and secluded cabins near my home in "Kansas." "Dorothy" and I are celebrating our 19th wedding anniversary soon after my return and I was hunting for that perfect place to take her...and I'm pretty sure I found it. It's very secluded, no internet, no phone, and no cell service. It's a very nicely appointed cabin in the middle of nature which I love so much (and wine country!) and even has a hot tub out back. Yea...it is true: with each passing day, the 'mental consumption' of 'all-things-Dorothy' increases. I cannot wait to get back to her! I'll have about 3 weeks of terminal leave when I get home and it will involve lots of time with my girls but away-time with Dorothy is an absolute must. Still, though...it's a ways off but I'm on the downhill part of my deployment so here's to another day done, and nearly another week done.
Goodnight, everyone.
Today was pretty busy all day. I had my normal Friday morning meeting with those who run the base. Just before that, though, I signed up officially for the Air Force Marathon on September 17th. (here's the scoop on their deployed marathon program) The marathon that will take place on the same day at Wright Patterson Air Force Base is sold out but open to all deployed service-members. We'll be considered official finishers and receive the tech tee and finisher's medal. Pretty awesome! My 26th marathon will certainly be one I will never forget.
After the morning meeting, I stopped by the Joint Task Force headquarters who rule over the whole eastern part of the country to work with an Air Force officer on policy she is writing and needed my input. After that, some lunch, then back to the office. The remainder of the day went pretty quick and wrapped up with the planning for tomorrow's Hail and Farewell AND my promotion! The steak and chicken are thawed and we're good to go! Back in my room tonight, I spent quite a bit of time researching Bed & Breakfast locations and secluded cabins near my home in "Kansas." "Dorothy" and I are celebrating our 19th wedding anniversary soon after my return and I was hunting for that perfect place to take her...and I'm pretty sure I found it. It's very secluded, no internet, no phone, and no cell service. It's a very nicely appointed cabin in the middle of nature which I love so much (and wine country!) and even has a hot tub out back. Yea...it is true: with each passing day, the 'mental consumption' of 'all-things-Dorothy' increases. I cannot wait to get back to her! I'll have about 3 weeks of terminal leave when I get home and it will involve lots of time with my girls but away-time with Dorothy is an absolute must. Still, though...it's a ways off but I'm on the downhill part of my deployment so here's to another day done, and nearly another week done.
Goodnight, everyone.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Day 131
Today started out pretty mild and relaxed. I was enjoying it because it would soon change. As lunchtime approached, the boss flew back in and we picked him up and headed to lunch. The rest of the day was cruising and plenty busy. The whole atmosphere in the office changes when everyone is there. It was certainly quiet and enjoyable for the majority of the week. Now it's go-time again. One thing I realized today was regarding that point paper that I wrote twice. It really looks like it shook things up Stateside. They have totally dismantled the program I wrote about that was totally broken and are implementing my recommendations and assembling a whole new team which appears on the surface, willing to listen us in the war zone. I'm pretty sure some heads rolled back there but it had to be done. I'm now involved more on the consulting side of things as they rebuild and transition. Pretty big compliment, I think! No one really says that to me but I drove it from the ground up and kept charging until something happened. No one else cared to take the lead and the initiative. I'm very curious to see where it all leads.
Around 6pm, we headed on back, along with my 2 care packages I received today. One was from a buddy back home who has sent multiple packages...more than anyone else. It had a lot of staples in it that I use often so it'll be put to great use along with some art from his daughter. The other one was from a running friend of mine back home. She made homemade zucchini bread and apricot oatmeal cranberry almond cookies!!! Dang, they are BOTH awesome and they both arrived still moist and yummy. Just perfect! Also, some Kashi cereal, Starbucks Iced VIA packets, and a few room air fresheners. (I actually requested those) For those of you who may be reading this and considering sending anything...I am all set on Iced VIA from Starbucks and popcorn. Don't need anymore. I certainly now have enough to get me HOME. I've really been blessed by many people!
Once I got back to my room, I quickly zipped out and grabbed some dinner to-go. Grilled chicken breast, mixed veggies, and some mashed potatoes. I headed on back, threw dinner in the fridge, and got ready to run. Just before heading out, my sister-in-law who is living in Germany, in wine country of all places, got me on Skype so we talked for awhile. That was the first time we talked since the Spring. It was great to see her again! Afterwards, I headed on out, neck gaiter on. It was windy tonight. I really wanted to run and I've been feeling better on the roads. I found out today that the Air Force Marathon which is held in southwest Ohio on September 17th has a deployed program where those who are deployed can register and be official entrants! Now I have a decision to make...run the marathon (it would be my 26th) or the 50K (31.2 miles) that I've been planning on for a long time. They are both on the same day. I'm in no shape to run 57 miles or I'd just do them back-to-back. Not sure what I'm going to do. I would really like to get my 26th marathon while in a war zone and be an official finisher. I ran that marathon back in 2007 in 3hrs, 44min. I'm in no shape to run sub-4 right now but can certainly run the distance. I have a decision to make.
The run was great! I ended up doing 10 miles instead of 8. I would've done more but it was already 10pm and I still needed to eat, shower, and blog. I felt really good after the run tonight. I've gotta keep this up...certainly can't hurt to shed some pounds for Dorothy, right?! Tomorrow, it should be a decent day. It'll be busy but that's a good thing. We'll also be making preps for Saturday...Hail and Farewell and my promotion to O-3!!! Navy Lieutenant! So with that, the book closes on Day 131.
Goodnight, everyone.
Around 6pm, we headed on back, along with my 2 care packages I received today. One was from a buddy back home who has sent multiple packages...more than anyone else. It had a lot of staples in it that I use often so it'll be put to great use along with some art from his daughter. The other one was from a running friend of mine back home. She made homemade zucchini bread and apricot oatmeal cranberry almond cookies!!! Dang, they are BOTH awesome and they both arrived still moist and yummy. Just perfect! Also, some Kashi cereal, Starbucks Iced VIA packets, and a few room air fresheners. (I actually requested those) For those of you who may be reading this and considering sending anything...I am all set on Iced VIA from Starbucks and popcorn. Don't need anymore. I certainly now have enough to get me HOME. I've really been blessed by many people!
Once I got back to my room, I quickly zipped out and grabbed some dinner to-go. Grilled chicken breast, mixed veggies, and some mashed potatoes. I headed on back, threw dinner in the fridge, and got ready to run. Just before heading out, my sister-in-law who is living in Germany, in wine country of all places, got me on Skype so we talked for awhile. That was the first time we talked since the Spring. It was great to see her again! Afterwards, I headed on out, neck gaiter on. It was windy tonight. I really wanted to run and I've been feeling better on the roads. I found out today that the Air Force Marathon which is held in southwest Ohio on September 17th has a deployed program where those who are deployed can register and be official entrants! Now I have a decision to make...run the marathon (it would be my 26th) or the 50K (31.2 miles) that I've been planning on for a long time. They are both on the same day. I'm in no shape to run 57 miles or I'd just do them back-to-back. Not sure what I'm going to do. I would really like to get my 26th marathon while in a war zone and be an official finisher. I ran that marathon back in 2007 in 3hrs, 44min. I'm in no shape to run sub-4 right now but can certainly run the distance. I have a decision to make.
The run was great! I ended up doing 10 miles instead of 8. I would've done more but it was already 10pm and I still needed to eat, shower, and blog. I felt really good after the run tonight. I've gotta keep this up...certainly can't hurt to shed some pounds for Dorothy, right?! Tomorrow, it should be a decent day. It'll be busy but that's a good thing. We'll also be making preps for Saturday...Hail and Farewell and my promotion to O-3!!! Navy Lieutenant! So with that, the book closes on Day 131.
Goodnight, everyone.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Day 130
Early, early to rise this morning as I did Skype in to my pastor's house as the men gathered for their weekly Bible study. It was great to spend about an hour with the men from my church even though it was 7,000 miles away. Technology strikes again! Shortly thereafter, I dialed into a call with other Navy Supply Corps officers and then hooked up on Skype with Tin Man and Scarecrow before they headed to bed...custom-Converse in hand, of course!
There really isn't much to write about today...just a few things. It was easily the busiest day in the office that I've had since I arrived here. It was non-stop all day long from beginning to end. Recall the point paper I wrote about a real "problem child" that I am involved in? I wrote it twice and it made itself way up the chain of command back in the States. After weeks of my superiors going to bat for what I suggested, there was finally new ground broken. From what I can gather, a whole new team is being assembled to comply with my/our suggestions. Now we wait again to see what comes from it. I stopped the direct communication over the past week or two and let those with the pay grade do the "barking up the tree." Each step, I was consulted on my opinion/suggestion then they pushed that upward...often just copying my exact input into their words.
After 11 straight hours, I called it a night and got out of there. I did exchange a few e-mails with my relief, too. We're starting to talk about the job he'll have here and I'm trying to push as much advice to him both about the job, his living environment, stuff to bring, stuff NOT to bring, etc. Once I got back to my side of the base, I had my wish granted as the chow hall was finally serving their homemade pizza. It's actually very good and the only good pizza I've had anywhere on this base. Back in my room....just chillaxing, watching some TV, and sipping another mug of hot, full leaf, Passion tea....oh so good. With that, I'd say Day 130 is a wrap.
Goodnight, everyone.
There really isn't much to write about today...just a few things. It was easily the busiest day in the office that I've had since I arrived here. It was non-stop all day long from beginning to end. Recall the point paper I wrote about a real "problem child" that I am involved in? I wrote it twice and it made itself way up the chain of command back in the States. After weeks of my superiors going to bat for what I suggested, there was finally new ground broken. From what I can gather, a whole new team is being assembled to comply with my/our suggestions. Now we wait again to see what comes from it. I stopped the direct communication over the past week or two and let those with the pay grade do the "barking up the tree." Each step, I was consulted on my opinion/suggestion then they pushed that upward...often just copying my exact input into their words.
After 11 straight hours, I called it a night and got out of there. I did exchange a few e-mails with my relief, too. We're starting to talk about the job he'll have here and I'm trying to push as much advice to him both about the job, his living environment, stuff to bring, stuff NOT to bring, etc. Once I got back to my side of the base, I had my wish granted as the chow hall was finally serving their homemade pizza. It's actually very good and the only good pizza I've had anywhere on this base. Back in my room....just chillaxing, watching some TV, and sipping another mug of hot, full leaf, Passion tea....oh so good. With that, I'd say Day 130 is a wrap.
Goodnight, everyone.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Day 129
I think I was in bed around 9:30pm or so last night...and am trying to meet that again tonight...gonna be a close one! However, even though I was in bed and quickly asleep after 9:30pm, the unwelcome alarm clock of "Incoming! Incoming! Incoming!" was blaring across the speakers at 10:30pm. Yea...another rocket attack. I never did find out where it was or if anything came from it. I'm convinced that those who thought things would simmer down during Ramadan were very wrong. I've been watching the intel briefs each day and there are a LOT of insurgent attacks happening throughout the country that don't make it to the U.S. media. They are more concerned with Iowa presidential debates and the stock market. My thoughts are that the Taliban are trying to get as much fighting in as they can before the cold season hits and they retreat back into hiding under the blanket of protection called Pakistan.
Today was a busy but good day. There really isn't much to report but that's a good thing. Do you recall me mentioning the custom Converse shoes I designed and ordered for Tin Man and Scarecrow yesterday on Day 128? They arrived over the weekend but the girls didn't open them up until yesterday. "Dorothy" sent me photos today of the girls holding them. They look pretty similar at first glance. On the top photo, you're looking at the instep of the shoe. The outer side is blue and white stars. The tongue is yellow and the laces are green. Red piping around the rubber sole. The inner liner is cupcakes. Her initials are on the heel, too. On the bottom one (Tin Man), the inner and outer panels are flipped from Scarecrow's (ie: stars on the inside), the tongue is green (vs. yellow), the laces are yellow (vs. green) and the piping around the rubber sole is blue. The inner liner is soccer balls since she loves to play soccer. Just like Scarecrow's, her initials are on the heel. Pretty cool, eh?! From everything I can tell, they really like them.
After I got back to the room tonight, I quickly headed out for another 8 miles around the base followed by a shrimp and veggie Mongolian BBQ I stopped by and picked up after I left the office and put in the fridge for post-run. It was a great post-run meal.
Well, it's time to call it a day and get to bed. I'm going to try something pretty cool in the early morning hours. I'm going to set my alarm for a few minutes before 3am and Skype in to my church's Mens' Bible Study which is taking place at 6:30pm EST. I've really been missing everything back there so this is well worth waking up early for. There's also a conference call at 9pm EST that is Navy-related that I'd like to call into using the Skype 800-number service. I'm guessing that by the time most of you read this, both of these things will already be done. I can also see that I'm going to crash-n-burn tomorrow night. Perhaps I can squeeze a nap in somewhere.
With that, friends and family, I'll call it a night. Another 10-day stretch done and Day 130 is knockin'.
Goodnight, everyone.
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| "Scarecrow" |
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| "Tin Man" |
After I got back to the room tonight, I quickly headed out for another 8 miles around the base followed by a shrimp and veggie Mongolian BBQ I stopped by and picked up after I left the office and put in the fridge for post-run. It was a great post-run meal.
Well, it's time to call it a day and get to bed. I'm going to try something pretty cool in the early morning hours. I'm going to set my alarm for a few minutes before 3am and Skype in to my church's Mens' Bible Study which is taking place at 6:30pm EST. I've really been missing everything back there so this is well worth waking up early for. There's also a conference call at 9pm EST that is Navy-related that I'd like to call into using the Skype 800-number service. I'm guessing that by the time most of you read this, both of these things will already be done. I can also see that I'm going to crash-n-burn tomorrow night. Perhaps I can squeeze a nap in somewhere.
With that, friends and family, I'll call it a night. Another 10-day stretch done and Day 130 is knockin'.
Goodnight, everyone.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Day 128
Mondays are now my favorite day of the week...temporarily, of course. Back in "Kansas," it marks the beginning of the work week which doesn't exist out here because every day is a work day. Why Monday? Landmarks. A not-to-be-mentioned number of weeks from today, I'll check in to the Navy where they will begin their attempts to put me back on the "Yellow Brick Road." The next Monday, I'll land on U.S. soil and continue on the "Yellow Brick Road" to process off of active duty. Days later, I'll arrive home and this blog will be at its very near end. So, Mondays have significance in my life because they represent a countdown towards home.
This morning, the first thing I did was Skype with Dorothy back home. Sunday night for her, Monday morning for me. It was good to see her again and talk about things back home. Afterwards, we took the boss to the flight line so he could travel as expected. :-) Commence a quiet few days... It was a quiet day in the office which included a trip to the post office where I waited 1/2 hour to ship Dorothy our laptop back home with a few other goodies. I also hit up Green Beans Coffee after lunch where I redeemed another $2.00 credit that I received anonymously from a lady named "Judi" who lives near Cincinnati. Her son is an Army Reservist who is about to deploy to Afghanistan after two prior deployments to Iraq...and she continues to donate free coffee to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. Pretty cool, eh? I enjoyed my Mocha Frappe as I played the computer a round of Scrabble on my iPad. I lost. :-( Afterwards, I had a video-teleconference and actually had some kudos thrown my way from leadership in the northern part of the country! That was pretty cool! Remember when I traveled last time and briefed those combat engineers? That has really paid off and today was a confirmation that what I'm doing really is serving the warfighter. It was certainly a "feel good" moment. Later on this afternoon, Dorothy and I spoke for awhile, I spoke to my youngest brother's wife for a bit who often watches Tin Man and Scarecrow for us, and then finally to Tin Man and Scarecrow themselves. A few weeks back, I custom-designed two pairs of Converse shoes for them. Well, they finally arrived and I wanted to hear if they liked them....they LOVED them!! You're able to choose every panel of fabric on the shoe including the inside liner, laces, eyelets, and even put their initials on the heel. I'll post a picture of them on a future post once I get some photos. They have a patriotic twist to them, too. :-)
Tonight, it was Mongolian BBQ near my room so of course, I enjoyed it. Capped it off with only 1 scoop of praline ice cream. No run tonight...unlike last night, the wind is ferocious tonight. Sitting here typing tonight, it is rattling the walls of my room. On TV tonight? NASCAR! There is a very good benefit to a rained out race on Sunday...a very early race on Monday which is my evening here and its on LIVE. Often, it comes on LIVE here but not until 10 or 11pm.
The last few days before Sunday were a bit rough. As Dorothy and I have our rough spots yet support each other through them, my pastor sent this out, not knowing anything about that. It was perfectly timed...for both of us in a time when we both equally need it. Thanks, Pastor Bill! With this, I say "Goodnight, everyone."
This morning, the first thing I did was Skype with Dorothy back home. Sunday night for her, Monday morning for me. It was good to see her again and talk about things back home. Afterwards, we took the boss to the flight line so he could travel as expected. :-) Commence a quiet few days... It was a quiet day in the office which included a trip to the post office where I waited 1/2 hour to ship Dorothy our laptop back home with a few other goodies. I also hit up Green Beans Coffee after lunch where I redeemed another $2.00 credit that I received anonymously from a lady named "Judi" who lives near Cincinnati. Her son is an Army Reservist who is about to deploy to Afghanistan after two prior deployments to Iraq...and she continues to donate free coffee to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. Pretty cool, eh? I enjoyed my Mocha Frappe as I played the computer a round of Scrabble on my iPad. I lost. :-( Afterwards, I had a video-teleconference and actually had some kudos thrown my way from leadership in the northern part of the country! That was pretty cool! Remember when I traveled last time and briefed those combat engineers? That has really paid off and today was a confirmation that what I'm doing really is serving the warfighter. It was certainly a "feel good" moment. Later on this afternoon, Dorothy and I spoke for awhile, I spoke to my youngest brother's wife for a bit who often watches Tin Man and Scarecrow for us, and then finally to Tin Man and Scarecrow themselves. A few weeks back, I custom-designed two pairs of Converse shoes for them. Well, they finally arrived and I wanted to hear if they liked them....they LOVED them!! You're able to choose every panel of fabric on the shoe including the inside liner, laces, eyelets, and even put their initials on the heel. I'll post a picture of them on a future post once I get some photos. They have a patriotic twist to them, too. :-)
Tonight, it was Mongolian BBQ near my room so of course, I enjoyed it. Capped it off with only 1 scoop of praline ice cream. No run tonight...unlike last night, the wind is ferocious tonight. Sitting here typing tonight, it is rattling the walls of my room. On TV tonight? NASCAR! There is a very good benefit to a rained out race on Sunday...a very early race on Monday which is my evening here and its on LIVE. Often, it comes on LIVE here but not until 10 or 11pm.
The last few days before Sunday were a bit rough. As Dorothy and I have our rough spots yet support each other through them, my pastor sent this out, not knowing anything about that. It was perfectly timed...for both of us in a time when we both equally need it. Thanks, Pastor Bill! With this, I say "Goodnight, everyone."
But if things go hard with us, and trials darken all our sky, are we still to give thanks, and bless our God? Most surely.
“Trials make the promise sweet;
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to His feet,
Lay me low, and keep me there.”
Let us thank God for our trials. We dwell, perhaps, in a land of narrowness. But, like Immanuel Kant’s garden, it is “endlessly high.” The air is fresh, and the sun is clear. The winter is frosty, but kindly. With the springtime comes the singing of birds, and the bloom and fragrance of flowers. And if, even in the summer, there breathes “a nipping and an eager air,” there is always the health-giving smile of God.
On the other hand, how true is the sentence of Augustine, “Earthly riches are full of poverty.” Rich stores of corn and wine will never satisfy a hungry soul. Purple and fine linen may only mask a threadbare life. The shrill blare of fame’s trumpet cannot subdue the discords of the spirit. The best night that Jacob ever spent was that in which a stone was his pillow, and the skies the curtains of his tent. When Job was held in derision by youths whose fathers he would have disdained to set with the dogs of his flock, he was made a spectacle to angels, and became the theme of their wonder and joy. The defeat which Adam sustained in Paradise, the Redeemer retrieved in the desolation of the desert and the anguish of His passion.
The cross we are called to bear may be heavy, but we have not to carry it far. And when God bids us lay it down, heaven begins. (David MacIntyre, "The Hidden Life of Prayer")
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Day 127
I must start out today saying that confronting that guy last night about what was eating me up was absolutely, positively the right thing to do. Not only did that de-stress me last night but that spilled into today and having a good Sunday. Sundays are typically rough for me but today was pretty good, actually. I called the shots, did what I wanted, and am ending the day on a positive note.
I started out by refusing to get out of bed. I just kept forcing myself back to sleep, wanting to head in to the office late, stay a few hours, then bolt. So after sleeping in, I did exactly that. I got some work done, grabbed some lunch, stopped by the PX (the shopping "mall" area for us military folks) and grabbed a few more t-shirts to send home, then headed back to the office long enough to pick up my clean laundry. After 2pm, I was out of there and heading on back.
My afternoon "mission" was to get my older laptop cleaned up and over 5,000 photos moved over to my MacBook. Dorothy is supposed to start her graduate degree soon and needs a computer with the Microsoft suite of things on it and this one has it so I've been prepping it to ship home. I did that and when the chow hall opened, I went over and grabbed a to-go box so I could eat dinner after my run tonight. While working on the computer this afternoon, I did have the chance to Skype with my girls for a few minutes and while I did, we actually got a squirt of rain! Wow!!! It does that here?! My roof it metal so I knew real quick something was going on outside and sure enough...rain drops. It only lasted a few minutes but that's the first precipitation of any kind that I've seen since April. The clouds were threatening earlier but I thought nothing of it because it never rains here.
At 7pm, I headed on out for a great perimeter run. Because of the clouds, the humidity was a bit higher and there was no wind tonight...an extreme rarity. I honestly cannot remember the last day it wasn't windy at night. The icing on the cake was a full moon tonight. Normally an 8 mile perimeter loop, I was feeling so good that I made it 10 miles. The photo at the right was near the old Russian bunkers from the late 70s. If you recall the photo from awhile ago of me in front of the "Mines" sign...same location. If you're going to take a photo out there, it's a good idea to move off the road and away from traffic. Taking a photo of the moon is not compromising security or anything but I don't need to give the armed patrol a reason to confiscate my iPhone. That's also the reason I didn't use a flash..plus, the flash would ruin the full moon! You can make out the shape of me and tell I'm wearing my clear ballistic glasses. In the end...it was a great run.
I won't lie...I'm looking forward to the first half of this week. The boss is traveling tomorrow through mid-week. Who doesn't like when the boss steps out for the few days?! Of course, I'm still looking forward to Saturday when I get promoted. That simply can't get here quick enough.
Goodnight, everyone.
I started out by refusing to get out of bed. I just kept forcing myself back to sleep, wanting to head in to the office late, stay a few hours, then bolt. So after sleeping in, I did exactly that. I got some work done, grabbed some lunch, stopped by the PX (the shopping "mall" area for us military folks) and grabbed a few more t-shirts to send home, then headed back to the office long enough to pick up my clean laundry. After 2pm, I was out of there and heading on back.
My afternoon "mission" was to get my older laptop cleaned up and over 5,000 photos moved over to my MacBook. Dorothy is supposed to start her graduate degree soon and needs a computer with the Microsoft suite of things on it and this one has it so I've been prepping it to ship home. I did that and when the chow hall opened, I went over and grabbed a to-go box so I could eat dinner after my run tonight. While working on the computer this afternoon, I did have the chance to Skype with my girls for a few minutes and while I did, we actually got a squirt of rain! Wow!!! It does that here?! My roof it metal so I knew real quick something was going on outside and sure enough...rain drops. It only lasted a few minutes but that's the first precipitation of any kind that I've seen since April. The clouds were threatening earlier but I thought nothing of it because it never rains here.
I won't lie...I'm looking forward to the first half of this week. The boss is traveling tomorrow through mid-week. Who doesn't like when the boss steps out for the few days?! Of course, I'm still looking forward to Saturday when I get promoted. That simply can't get here quick enough.
Goodnight, everyone.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Day 126
Alright, I've had about 3 straight days of funk so let's mix it up tonight. I'm just going to throw some positive things out from today and wrap today up with a little life lesson. I think I need to get over myself and get my head screwed on right. It's threads are certainly crossed right now.
First...the way I woke up...it was priceless. First, I hit the snooze on my iPhone at 5:30am and fell back asleep. I also forgot to put "Do Not Disturb" on my Skype while I slept. Thank goodness, too, because my girls stayed at my parents and they were calling me. Tin Man told my mom "Dad gets up at 5:30am his time so I know he's awake." It was beyond perfect to get a wake up call from my girls. Priceless doesn't seem to measure up...it was better than that. Like I could to Dorothy, I could just stare at them and say nothing. I just want to burn their images into my mind and remember them. Dangit, I miss them so much! The day in the office was not so positive so we'll just skip right over that. After lunch, another care package showed up from my middle brother. Inside were two boxes of Kashi cereal...the new "Toasted Berry Crumble" which is unbelievable!!! Good timing, too, as maybe two days of cereal were left. Also inside were some Caramel Iced VIA packets from Starbucks and some lemonade powder mixes that I also love. Super sweet! As the day wore on, I stared at the clock just waiting for an e-mail from Dorothy saying she was awake and I could call. I really just wanted to hear her soothing morning voice and hear about her Friday in New York City where she is visiting. We had a great chat and said our goodbyes. Afterwards, I called my brother to thank him for the care package and chat for awhile.
One thing he asked me stuck with me. He asked about what I thought about our presence here in the country and the lasting impact. I will admit...that answer is different than it was on Day 30 when I arrived here. "Winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people" and helping to "equip them and train them to take their country back" are things heard often. However, seeing so many flag-draped coffins here at my base has taken its toll on me and my confidence level has certainly diminished. This country supplies over 85% of the world's poppy which is used to make heroin. That is a BIG business and fuels the enemy. Plenty of money for weapons and training the bad guys. The Afghan people, on the other hand, are very simple, living far below poverty, and have extremely little. Remove us from the country and I think it's a debate as to what will happen. Can they truly take their country back and not be overrun by the Taliban again? Without us? I'm only throwing that out there for discussion right now...I'm not making a statement. I just hope the death and sacrifice of so many of our country's heroes is not in vain. That really gets to me when I think about it. We'll know eventually, but for now, history is being written.
Tonight, the dynamics of things going on in the office was really eating at me. I could feel the stress building throughout my body and did not want to go to bed feeling the way I felt. I just had to talk to one of them. The senior officer wouldn't return my two requests to speak and refused to answer his phone. So, I called the next one down and had a lengthy discussion outside about it. It had to be confronted, laid out there, and worked through. I think we did and I'm very glad I took the initiative to make things right. Of course, he didn't think it was "that big of a deal" but it was eating me alive. Afterwards, I popped some popcorn and brewed some full leaf Passion tea from my sister-in-law...oh so good!!! So good I had to take a picture of it! It's the kind of tea that's so good all by itself and nothing needs added to it. Rocky 2 is on tonight, too. With that, friends...Day 126 has come to an end and a very unplugged day awaits tomorrow. I'm not setting the alarm and will just head into the office whenever I wake up, spend a few hours there, then get out of there. For now...it's bedtime. I think I'll fall asleep to some of Kenny Chesney's classics tonight.
Goodnight, everyone.
First...the way I woke up...it was priceless. First, I hit the snooze on my iPhone at 5:30am and fell back asleep. I also forgot to put "Do Not Disturb" on my Skype while I slept. Thank goodness, too, because my girls stayed at my parents and they were calling me. Tin Man told my mom "Dad gets up at 5:30am his time so I know he's awake." It was beyond perfect to get a wake up call from my girls. Priceless doesn't seem to measure up...it was better than that. Like I could to Dorothy, I could just stare at them and say nothing. I just want to burn their images into my mind and remember them. Dangit, I miss them so much! The day in the office was not so positive so we'll just skip right over that. After lunch, another care package showed up from my middle brother. Inside were two boxes of Kashi cereal...the new "Toasted Berry Crumble" which is unbelievable!!! Good timing, too, as maybe two days of cereal were left. Also inside were some Caramel Iced VIA packets from Starbucks and some lemonade powder mixes that I also love. Super sweet! As the day wore on, I stared at the clock just waiting for an e-mail from Dorothy saying she was awake and I could call. I really just wanted to hear her soothing morning voice and hear about her Friday in New York City where she is visiting. We had a great chat and said our goodbyes. Afterwards, I called my brother to thank him for the care package and chat for awhile.
One thing he asked me stuck with me. He asked about what I thought about our presence here in the country and the lasting impact. I will admit...that answer is different than it was on Day 30 when I arrived here. "Winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people" and helping to "equip them and train them to take their country back" are things heard often. However, seeing so many flag-draped coffins here at my base has taken its toll on me and my confidence level has certainly diminished. This country supplies over 85% of the world's poppy which is used to make heroin. That is a BIG business and fuels the enemy. Plenty of money for weapons and training the bad guys. The Afghan people, on the other hand, are very simple, living far below poverty, and have extremely little. Remove us from the country and I think it's a debate as to what will happen. Can they truly take their country back and not be overrun by the Taliban again? Without us? I'm only throwing that out there for discussion right now...I'm not making a statement. I just hope the death and sacrifice of so many of our country's heroes is not in vain. That really gets to me when I think about it. We'll know eventually, but for now, history is being written.
Goodnight, everyone.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Day 125
Good days, bad days, we have them all, don't we? Today...not so good. Nothing really happened, per se, it was just a day where I must have woke up on the wrong side of the bed. From the beginning, today, I kept to myself and couldn't ever really dig myself out of the mental funk. It didn't help when it was a slow day, too. Once the day was breaking on the east coast, I gave Tin Man and Scarecrow a quick call to find out they got the postcard I mailed them and also a quick call to Dorothy who is tearing up the Big Apple this weekend. Dorothy is the only person on the planet who I feel I can really open up to so she's a critical piece in my life so my "life line" (aka: phone line) is a huge benefit that is priceless to me. Soon after I hung up with Dorothy after an 11hr day, I was out the door and caught the shuttle back to my side of the base. Dinner and relaxing in my room defined the evening and it's time for bed to seal Day 125. Trust me...you don't want this brain spilled out on this screen today. Best to just go to bed.
Goodnight, everyone.
Goodnight, everyone.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Day 124
Over the hump and onward to the weekend. 9 days until promotion, too...not that I'm eager to get promoted or anything. I'll be taking my oath along with the monthly "Hail and Farewell" you've read about before. We are going all out, too...we're grilling steaks and chicken and will have baked beans and potato salad...perhaps some near-beer, too!
Today wasn't too bad. I was busy all morning then tried something new. I went back to my room around lunch and suffered through 4 1/2 miles on the treadmill. That was torture. I was going to run 6 or 7 but I passionately hate the treadmill. No need to lie...I hate it. I did that, got some push-ups and planks in afterwards then showered and headed over to my Russian friends for a haircut. Never fails...they do a great job every time. Funny thing, though? She attacked my eye brows with a vengeance. Yea, my awesome barber, Heather, back in "Kansas" usually takes care of me in that category but since April, no attention at all! I'm guessing this barber today couldn't help herself but clip those things off. Most excellent service. I headed on back to the office afterwards after nothing but a Clif Bar for lunch and got some more work done along with a call to my mom, Tin Man, and Scarecrow.
Back in my room tonight, it was just relaxing and watching "Source Code" on TV...pretty good flick. Afterwards, I was checking in on my feed online and noticed the Department of Defense officially announced the 30 Fallen from last week. Yes, the same link I mention often and have permanently embedded on the right side of this blog. For the rest of today's post, I ask you to read their names, age, and hometowns. PLEASE do not leave today's post without reading their names. You can also find the list here. "Rest in Peace, brothers, and thank you for your ultimate sacrifice for my freedom and that of my family and friends back home. You will not be forgotten."
The following sailors assigned to an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit were killed:
Lt. Cmdr. (SEAL) Jonas B. Kelsall, 32, of Shreveport, La.
Special Warfare Operator Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Louis J. Langlais, 44, of Santa Barbara, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff, 34, of Green Forest, Ark.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Senior Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Kraig M. Vickers 36, of Kokomo, Hawaii
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Brian R. Bill, 31, of Stamford, Conn.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) John W. Faas, 31, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Kevin A. Houston, 35, of West Hyannisport, Mass.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, 37, of Kansas City, Mo.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Stephen M. Mills, 35, of Fort Worth, Texas
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist/Diver) Nicholas H. Null, 30, of Washington, W.Va.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Robert J. Reeves, 32, of Shreveport, La.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Heath M. Robinson, 34, of Detroit, Mich.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Darrik C. Benson, 28, of Angwin, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Parachutist) Christopher G. Campbell, 36, of Jacksonville, N.C.
Information Systems Technician Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Jared W. Day, 28, of Taylorsville, Utah
Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) John Douangdara, 26, of South Sioux City, Neb.
Cryptologist Technician (Collection) Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) Michael J. Strange, 25, of Philadelphia, Pa.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist) Jon T. Tumilson, 35, of Rockford, Iowa
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Aaron C. Vaughn, 30, of Stuart, Fla.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jason R. Workman, 32, of Blanding, Utah.
The following sailors assigned to a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit were killed:
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jesse D. Pittman, 27, of Ukiah, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Nicholas P. Spehar, 24, of Saint Paul, Minn.
The soldiers killed were:
Chief Warrant Officer David R. Carter, 47, of Centennial, Colo. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Aurora, Colo.
Chief Warrant Officer Bryan J. Nichols, 31, of Hays, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
Sgt. Patrick D. Hamburger, 30, of Lincoln, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Grand Island, Neb.
Sgt. Alexander J. Bennett, 24, of Tacoma, Wash. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
Spc. Spencer C. Duncan, 21, of Olathe, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
The airmen killed were:
Tech. Sgt. John W. Brown, 33, of Tallahassee, Fla.
Staff Sgt. Andrew W. Harvell, 26, of Long Beach, Calif.
Tech. Sgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, 28, of York, Pa.
All three airmen were assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Field, N.C.
Note: Service-members die many times per week in this war. In no way am I elevating these Fallen over any others. ANY life lost is a tragedy. I am listing these for a few reasons: it has garnered international attention, I was there to see them leave Afghanistan, most are fellow Sailors, and I believe it is appropriate considering how it has impacted my life which is what this blog/journal is all about. I encourage you to continue checking the link on the right to keep the Fallen in mind and the families they leave behind. That journey without their loved one is just beginning and will last a lifetime.
Goodnight, everyone.
Today wasn't too bad. I was busy all morning then tried something new. I went back to my room around lunch and suffered through 4 1/2 miles on the treadmill. That was torture. I was going to run 6 or 7 but I passionately hate the treadmill. No need to lie...I hate it. I did that, got some push-ups and planks in afterwards then showered and headed over to my Russian friends for a haircut. Never fails...they do a great job every time. Funny thing, though? She attacked my eye brows with a vengeance. Yea, my awesome barber, Heather, back in "Kansas" usually takes care of me in that category but since April, no attention at all! I'm guessing this barber today couldn't help herself but clip those things off. Most excellent service. I headed on back to the office afterwards after nothing but a Clif Bar for lunch and got some more work done along with a call to my mom, Tin Man, and Scarecrow.
Back in my room tonight, it was just relaxing and watching "Source Code" on TV...pretty good flick. Afterwards, I was checking in on my feed online and noticed the Department of Defense officially announced the 30 Fallen from last week. Yes, the same link I mention often and have permanently embedded on the right side of this blog. For the rest of today's post, I ask you to read their names, age, and hometowns. PLEASE do not leave today's post without reading their names. You can also find the list here. "Rest in Peace, brothers, and thank you for your ultimate sacrifice for my freedom and that of my family and friends back home. You will not be forgotten."
DOD Identifies Service Members Killed In CH-47 Crash
The Department of Defense announced today the deaths of 30 servicemembers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Aug. 6 in Wardak province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when their CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed.
The following sailors assigned to an East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit were killed:
Lt. Cmdr. (SEAL) Jonas B. Kelsall, 32, of Shreveport, La.
Special Warfare Operator Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Louis J. Langlais, 44, of Santa Barbara, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff, 34, of Green Forest, Ark.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Senior Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Kraig M. Vickers 36, of Kokomo, Hawaii
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Brian R. Bill, 31, of Stamford, Conn.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) John W. Faas, 31, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Kevin A. Houston, 35, of West Hyannisport, Mass.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, 37, of Kansas City, Mo.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Stephen M. Mills, 35, of Fort Worth, Texas
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Chief Petty Officer (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist/Diver) Nicholas H. Null, 30, of Washington, W.Va.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Robert J. Reeves, 32, of Shreveport, La.
Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Heath M. Robinson, 34, of Detroit, Mich.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Darrik C. Benson, 28, of Angwin, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Parachutist) Christopher G. Campbell, 36, of Jacksonville, N.C.
Information Systems Technician Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist/Freefall Parachutist) Jared W. Day, 28, of Taylorsville, Utah
Master-at-Arms Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) John Douangdara, 26, of South Sioux City, Neb.
Cryptologist Technician (Collection) Petty Officer 1st Class (Expeditionary Warfare Specialist) Michael J. Strange, 25, of Philadelphia, Pa.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL/Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist) Jon T. Tumilson, 35, of Rockford, Iowa
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Aaron C. Vaughn, 30, of Stuart, Fla.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jason R. Workman, 32, of Blanding, Utah.
The following sailors assigned to a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit were killed:
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Jesse D. Pittman, 27, of Ukiah, Calif.
Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Nicholas P. Spehar, 24, of Saint Paul, Minn.
The soldiers killed were:
Chief Warrant Officer David R. Carter, 47, of Centennial, Colo. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Aurora, Colo.
Chief Warrant Officer Bryan J. Nichols, 31, of Hays, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
Sgt. Patrick D. Hamburger, 30, of Lincoln, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), Grand Island, Neb.
Sgt. Alexander J. Bennett, 24, of Tacoma, Wash. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
Spc. Spencer C. Duncan, 21, of Olathe, Kan. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion), New Century, Kan.
The airmen killed were:
Tech. Sgt. John W. Brown, 33, of Tallahassee, Fla.
Staff Sgt. Andrew W. Harvell, 26, of Long Beach, Calif.
Tech. Sgt. Daniel L. Zerbe, 28, of York, Pa.
All three airmen were assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Field, N.C.
Note: Service-members die many times per week in this war. In no way am I elevating these Fallen over any others. ANY life lost is a tragedy. I am listing these for a few reasons: it has garnered international attention, I was there to see them leave Afghanistan, most are fellow Sailors, and I believe it is appropriate considering how it has impacted my life which is what this blog/journal is all about. I encourage you to continue checking the link on the right to keep the Fallen in mind and the families they leave behind. That journey without their loved one is just beginning and will last a lifetime.
Goodnight, everyone.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Day 123
Quiet day today, which was nice. There really isn't much to share. The biggest highlight was the Cleveland Indians' ballgame that went 14 innings after a rain delay...nearly went to 2am EST! Pretty rare we get to watch LIVE baseball in the office through mid-morning so that was pretty cool. Tribe won...beat the Tigers! Besides that, I was very busy all day and didn't get out of the office until I put in an 11 1/2 hour day. Everyone in the office grabbed dinner together and unable to resist the urge, I went back and got a cup of praline ice cream. I swear that stuff is addicting. My palate just don't feel write after dinner without it! I watched some TV, now I'm blogging, going to get a quick shower, then I'm heading to bed earlier than normal...going to fall asleep to some Brahms: German Requiem tonight. Eyes are already heavy. Hump Day is done and now down towards the weekend. T-10 days until my promotion on the 20th! :-) (oh yea...almost forgot...got confirmation of my departure date today...hmmm, how did I forget to mention that? who knows...and no, I can't share it...and no, it's not soon...but there is a giant target on the downward slope of my time left here) :-)))))))
Goodnight, everyone.
Goodnight, everyone.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Day 122
24 hours ago, I was standing on the flight line waiting for the Fallen Comrade Ceremony to begin. Tonight? I'm in my CHU...showered...relaxed. A repeat of the Pirates/Giants baseball game is playing in the background (I know...weird...but it "sounds" like home with baseball on in the background...make sense?!) and I'm downloading today's release of Steven Curtis Chapman's Re-Creation. I've been a fan for years and met him once, too. This new album is a combination of new work and re-creations of his favorites and my favorites. With the snail's pace of download in my room, I'm sure I'll go to sleep tonight and it won't be done yet.
While the Fallen arrived at Dover Air Force Base today, back here in Oz, things returned to normal. At 8am this morning, I was in a brief with the brigade who ran it all last night. The commander was very proud of his people and passed on thanks and job-well-done to them but reminded them to get their head back in the game and return to work. After all, he said, it's our job. The rest of the day was busy, productive, and mostly uneventful. As the lunch hour broke, I escaped early to avoid eating with everyone else. I wanted time to myself today. I grabbed a salad for lunch then headed over to Green Beans Coffee to redeem a gift card I was sent for $22.00. Now I have a credit for java!!! WOOT! Today, I got their incredibly good Mocha Frappe and did some reading and writing outside. After about an hour, I wandered on back to the office where they had all left and already returned from lunch. I got back to work and waited for Dorothy to wake up a few hours later. We got on the phone and had a great conversation for quite awhile. She was up early to head out for a run then to work. Afterwards, I stayed around long enough for another conference call with folks back Stateside then headed out for the night.
Back in my room after dinner, I Skype'd with Tin Man and Scarecrow for awhile then wound down for the night. That's really about it...and boy, am I thankful for that. Today was a relaxing day. I'm going to try and get to bed a bit early tonight because I'm going to wake up in the middle of the night to try and Skype in to my church's Men's Bible Study and then a conference call with fellow Supply Officers. I'm on a regional board and I'm really trying to stay involved with them, especially as they are planning for our 2012 symposium next year. I'm going to try the free Skype 800 number service. So with that, everyone...Day 122 is a rap. As a FYI: I am starting to "feel" my time winding down. While still a ways out, I am certainly on the downward slope towards getting back on the Yellow Brick Road. I'm creating little landmarks on the calendar in any way I can. Little victories help move time along, I've found.
Goodnight, everyone.
While the Fallen arrived at Dover Air Force Base today, back here in Oz, things returned to normal. At 8am this morning, I was in a brief with the brigade who ran it all last night. The commander was very proud of his people and passed on thanks and job-well-done to them but reminded them to get their head back in the game and return to work. After all, he said, it's our job. The rest of the day was busy, productive, and mostly uneventful. As the lunch hour broke, I escaped early to avoid eating with everyone else. I wanted time to myself today. I grabbed a salad for lunch then headed over to Green Beans Coffee to redeem a gift card I was sent for $22.00. Now I have a credit for java!!! WOOT! Today, I got their incredibly good Mocha Frappe and did some reading and writing outside. After about an hour, I wandered on back to the office where they had all left and already returned from lunch. I got back to work and waited for Dorothy to wake up a few hours later. We got on the phone and had a great conversation for quite awhile. She was up early to head out for a run then to work. Afterwards, I stayed around long enough for another conference call with folks back Stateside then headed out for the night.
Back in my room after dinner, I Skype'd with Tin Man and Scarecrow for awhile then wound down for the night. That's really about it...and boy, am I thankful for that. Today was a relaxing day. I'm going to try and get to bed a bit early tonight because I'm going to wake up in the middle of the night to try and Skype in to my church's Men's Bible Study and then a conference call with fellow Supply Officers. I'm on a regional board and I'm really trying to stay involved with them, especially as they are planning for our 2012 symposium next year. I'm going to try the free Skype 800 number service. So with that, everyone...Day 122 is a rap. As a FYI: I am starting to "feel" my time winding down. While still a ways out, I am certainly on the downward slope towards getting back on the Yellow Brick Road. I'm creating little landmarks on the calendar in any way I can. Little victories help move time along, I've found.
Goodnight, everyone.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Day 121
Alright, folks...no talk today about my morning and afternoon. Today, I can only reproduce what I was WITNESS to tonight...35 flag-draped caskets...heading home to America. I really don't know any better way to write tonight but to just re-create my memories onto this screen. Only 3 days ago, I did that when I attended my first Fallen Comrade Ceremony. Little did I know that late, late Friday night, we would lose 30 more then another 5 over the weekend. Oh, America...
"I heard earlier today that we needed to be formed up on the flight line by 8pm tonight or 11:30am EST. I was very busy today so I ended up skipping dinner and heading to the flight line. As I turned the corner on the flight line towards the large C-17s which would carry our Fallen home, I saw the growing crowd of fellow service-members. Once I got into the crowd, I found a spot in the front row of the formation. From my vantage point, a large hangar, big enough for a C-17 was to my left and the doors were wide open. Inside, there were troops in formation on both sides. At the rear center, the commonly seen rifle pointed down, helmet on top, boots in front, and dog tags hanging...just like you see on the right side of my blog. On the floor in front of these memorials for the Fallen, soldiers kneeled and embraced each other as they grieved their fallen brothers. Outside, we were waiting for 8pm (local) to come around when the ceremony was to begin. Directly across from me, there was a large space as wide as the hangar opening and another mass of soldiers facing us. To my right, two C-17s waited with their rear cargo doors wide open, ready to receive the Fallen. They were angled inward, rear-facing. Inside the cargo bays, the final preps were being made to secure the Fallen for their long ride home.
The crowd was large...in the hundreds, for sure. As 8pm arrived and passed by, the ceremony did not start. Soon, though, the engines on the C-17s quieted and the flight line shut down. Nothing. No sound, no jet engines nearby...just silence. The band that I saw from a few days ago was on the opposite side of me, facing me. They began to play very ceremonial/somber music. Then, off to my right, "K-Loaders" approached. K-Loaders (stock photo shown here) are the very large "vehicles" used to load air pallets onto cargo aircraft. They can lift their decks straight up and down. Due to the large number of Fallen, these were being used to bring the Fallen to us. Slowly...very slowly...four fully-loaded K-Loaders approached from the right and stopped in between the two staged C-17s. Then, the crowd was called to attention and gobs of soldiers came forward and formed up between the K-Loaders. A group of 8 climbed on top and stood to the sides of two rows of caskets. Their job was to bring the caskets forward to those who would carry them into the hangar. Down in front of the K-Loader, fellow Special Forces sailors and soldiers lined up in quantities of 8 per casket and slowly removed and carried each casket right by me from right to left and into the hangar. One by one by one...each casket passed by. The crowd, including myself, held our salute until every member had been brought in. As each group of 8 arrived in the hangar, I watched as they slowly lowered each Hero to the ground, slowly rose to their feet, then in unison, slowly saluted the Hero they just carried in. This happened for each of the 35 Americans in caskets.
After all the caskets were brought in, the K-Loaders drove away and opened the space up yet again between the two C-17s. Back in the hangar, one of the Chaplains approached the microphone and prayed for the soldiers. Once complete, the names...every name was read aloud. A member from each community came forward and stated the rank and name of every person. The Navy SEALs were hit especially hard and 22 names were read. Next, the Air Force members who died were read (I'm not sure how many were Air Force...I am sure one was a Tech Sergeant Medic). After this, an Army Ranger came up and read the names of his Fallen. Lastly, a Marine came up and read 3 more names and ended with "Semper Fidelis." 35 names...35 Heroes. Now that the names were read, the band began to play once again. It was a smooth, somber type of music. I didn't recognize any of it.
I was beginning to wonder: 'Why aren't I crying? Don't I feel anything?' I was feeling guilty...like I was supposed to cry. 'Look at all those flag-draped caskets...don't you feel anything??' I thought to myself. Looking back now, I was numb to it. Yea, I felt it...I felt the sorrow, I grieved for the families of the Fallen, I looked at the flags which wrapped the corners of the caskets and thought about all that flag stands for and the price paid for what it stands for. Inside, I wanted deeply for my friends and family to witness this...I wanted AMERICA to witness it. On the outside, though, I just stared..and listened to the names, not moving one muscle.
"Present...ARMS!"... the order to salute. In unison, we all slowly raised our arms to salute once again. In groups of about 8 at a time, the soldiers bent down and lifted each Hero up, turned them around to face the correct direction (feet always first), then slowly...very slowly carried them towards one of the two waiting C-17s. As they passed, I looked at each person who passed and their faces. Many, many of them had beards. This is normal for Special Forces and SEALs as they often are with the Afghans and try to blend in a bit. I saw Trident after Trident on upper left chests of those carrying the Fallen. They are fellow SEALs...carrying their brothers HOME. No expressions, no tears...just staring straight ahead and keeping a firm grasp on the metal handles. As the rows formed at the rear of the C-17s off to my right, they turned the Fallen around one more time so that when they arrive at Dover Air Force Base, they will be ready to come off the aircraft in the proper direction. One by one, they took each Hero into the C-17 and slowly lowered them to the deck plates and rendered their final salute before leaving the aircraft via the front door. Wave after wave after wave until every last one had passed by me and been loaded. The band played the entire time and we held that salute under ordered to put it down. In the photo above, count those American Flags...how many do you see? Now double that. That's about how many passed me by tonight."
Friends, tonight was heartbreaking. I didn't say a word afterwards. I got in the car and while others talked, I just sat there, not knowing what I was feeling or what I should be feeling. I was honored to have been there but where are the tears? I got back to my room and knew I needed to write tonight but knew I had to take a shower, pop some popcorn, and RELAX. That was the only way I was going to write anything. I did that, turned on the TV and guess what was on..."Coming Home"!!!! Seriously? Is that God's idea of humor? Goodness gracious...watching little girls on TV greet their daddies home from war melts my heart each time I see it. I was an emotional wreck! After some smiles and laughter, I finally sat down to write to you. Now it's done...it's about 12:30am here and I'm wiped out.
I hope I never witness anything like this ever again. Am I glad I went? Absolutely. I really "felt" like I was standing there and saluting for all of my friends and family...in their place, you might say. I felt the love of them, too, and thought about them often throughout the ceremony. I also thought about the journey these Heroes would take. As I type this, they are probably cruising at 35,000 feet, en route to Dover Air Force Base where the military mortuary will take over. Many families will be there to witness their arrival. I imagine that the news will cover it as well if the family members agree...that's the way that works...it's up to the families if it gets broadcast to the world. After Mortuary Affairs finishes, the Heroes will begin their trip to their final resting place.
Friends, please pray for the families..the wives, children, brothers, sisters, extended family, and good friends whose grieving process has just begun. While most of America is fretting over the stock market, they are en route to Dover to welcome their Heroes home. Please remember them.
Goodnight, everyone.
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| Stock Photo |
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| Stock Photo of K-Loader with C-17 behind it |
After all the caskets were brought in, the K-Loaders drove away and opened the space up yet again between the two C-17s. Back in the hangar, one of the Chaplains approached the microphone and prayed for the soldiers. Once complete, the names...every name was read aloud. A member from each community came forward and stated the rank and name of every person. The Navy SEALs were hit especially hard and 22 names were read. Next, the Air Force members who died were read (I'm not sure how many were Air Force...I am sure one was a Tech Sergeant Medic). After this, an Army Ranger came up and read the names of his Fallen. Lastly, a Marine came up and read 3 more names and ended with "Semper Fidelis." 35 names...35 Heroes. Now that the names were read, the band began to play once again. It was a smooth, somber type of music. I didn't recognize any of it.
I was beginning to wonder: 'Why aren't I crying? Don't I feel anything?' I was feeling guilty...like I was supposed to cry. 'Look at all those flag-draped caskets...don't you feel anything??' I thought to myself. Looking back now, I was numb to it. Yea, I felt it...I felt the sorrow, I grieved for the families of the Fallen, I looked at the flags which wrapped the corners of the caskets and thought about all that flag stands for and the price paid for what it stands for. Inside, I wanted deeply for my friends and family to witness this...I wanted AMERICA to witness it. On the outside, though, I just stared..and listened to the names, not moving one muscle.
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| Stock Photo inside C-17 of previous Fallen |
Friends, tonight was heartbreaking. I didn't say a word afterwards. I got in the car and while others talked, I just sat there, not knowing what I was feeling or what I should be feeling. I was honored to have been there but where are the tears? I got back to my room and knew I needed to write tonight but knew I had to take a shower, pop some popcorn, and RELAX. That was the only way I was going to write anything. I did that, turned on the TV and guess what was on..."Coming Home"!!!! Seriously? Is that God's idea of humor? Goodness gracious...watching little girls on TV greet their daddies home from war melts my heart each time I see it. I was an emotional wreck! After some smiles and laughter, I finally sat down to write to you. Now it's done...it's about 12:30am here and I'm wiped out.
I hope I never witness anything like this ever again. Am I glad I went? Absolutely. I really "felt" like I was standing there and saluting for all of my friends and family...in their place, you might say. I felt the love of them, too, and thought about them often throughout the ceremony. I also thought about the journey these Heroes would take. As I type this, they are probably cruising at 35,000 feet, en route to Dover Air Force Base where the military mortuary will take over. Many families will be there to witness their arrival. I imagine that the news will cover it as well if the family members agree...that's the way that works...it's up to the families if it gets broadcast to the world. After Mortuary Affairs finishes, the Heroes will begin their trip to their final resting place.
Friends, please pray for the families..the wives, children, brothers, sisters, extended family, and good friends whose grieving process has just begun. While most of America is fretting over the stock market, they are en route to Dover to welcome their Heroes home. Please remember them.
Goodnight, everyone.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Day 120
120 is a nice round number, isn't it? That's a good solid 4 months DONE. I left "Kansas" on a Sunday, too, so yea...definitely 4 months gone. I'll tell you straight up...I didn't dive into my sorrowful abyss today which happens on many, many Sundays. After I wrote last night's blog, I downloaded Skype to my new MacBook Pro that arrived last week and amazingly, it works inside my room with a very week WiFi signal that I created. So, I talked to my girls for a bit and saw them (AWESOME!!) then spent some time alone with "Dorothy." She totally doesn't get it, but I could just sit there or lay there and just stare at her for hours on end. We ran out of things to talk about so we ended up saying goodbye but I would've been perfectly fine with just spending time with her...silent or not. So that was a great way to end yesterday. It kept me up past midnight but it was well worth it.
This morning, I woke up at normal time, intent on working until around lunch then getting out of there. I was actually very busy all morning but around 1pm, I left. It was 97F today so I went straight back to my CHU where it was nice and cool and crawled into bed. Not too long after that, my youngest brother and his family called on Skype so I got to see all of them and talk for awhile. He just ran his longest ever (19 miles) trail run yesterday, too. He'll be running his first 50K on September 17th at one of my all time favorite races..in a Navy PT shirt! Pretty cool, I'd say. After that, I dozed off for an hour or two..who knows how long, then awoke to just lay there and watch some TV. As I noticed the sun was beginning to set and temperature begin to drop, I got my running gear on, complete with clear, ballistic glasses and neck gaiter pulled up to my eyeballs to keep all the crud out of my lungs and eyes. Have I mentioned I strongly dislike running here? I despise it but not as much as I despise the treadmill so outside it is. My shoes are now way beyond trashed and feel now like they're minimalist shoes. To my fortune, though, Dorothy mailed me a care package last week with a used pair of Brooks Glycerins from out of my garage. I have a brand new pair of Brooks at home but there is no way I'm wearing them out here. No shoe run in here should ever leave this place. The dust and filth simply destroys them...way worse than any trail mud I've ever run in.
Tonight on my perimeter run, I was mentally consumed by my fellow sailors, Navy SEALs who were killed two nights ago as they returned from a mission, about a 30 minute helo ride south of my location. I ended up dedicating tonight's run to them as I ran with Mr. Moon. I couldn't stop thinking about the Fallen Comrade Ceremony that will soon happen here. 30 metal caskets...30 American Flags...and 8 soldiers per casket to carry each one aboard an Air Force C-17. While I was in the office today, I exchanged some e-mails with an Army medical officer who was involved with Mortuary Affairs here on base. I once again volunteered myself to do anything at anytime for the Fallen. I won't be called, though...there is a HUGE outpouring of support here on the base for these heroes and I'm just not in the mix for being able to be a part. I really wish I could, though. Anyway, as I ran around the base, I was planning to stop in at the office again to check a few things online and had a post that was running through my head, over and over and over again...sort of a tribute to them. So, I quickly logged on to my Facebook account and posted the following:
It really is true, isn't it? Shouldn't we celebrate them and all they did for our country? I think we should. We should mourn, too but it should be followed by celebrating their lives. They took the fight to the nastiest parts of the enemy where no one else on the planet will go. They were/are our country's finest and most elite fighting force. America: we lost so much on that downed Chinook. Can't we just leave the credit rating and stock market out of the news for just a day or two? Can we not get our priorities in line, even in a time like this?
I got back on the road, still consumed by their loss and thought again to the movie, Taking Chance. If you have not seen it, I am asking you...no, I am begging you to find it and rent it/buy it and watch it. Watch it as a family, too. There is nothing in it that a child cannot see. We watched it when my girls were 6 and 8 and I've watched it several more times. It is the true story of a Marine officer who escorts a fallen Marine home, starting at Dover Air Force Base. Dover is where these Fallen will go in the next few days. As I type this now, many of the Fallen's families are packing their things to go there. (the military flies the Next of Kin to Dover for free if they want to go) Back a few years ago, the military opened it up for families to witness their loved ones brought off the C-17, very ceremoniously before they are prepared for their journey home. The movie, in my opinion, is one that every single American should see. You will be forever changed, I promise you. Most of you live near a RedBox...check there. We found it there last year. Please watch it. There's another reason I thought about this movie tonight again. On my run, I always pass this diagonal road that has this little, homemade sign at the entrance that reads "Mortuary Affairs." Down that road only a few hundred yards are the Fallen Heroes that the world is talking about right now, being prepared to go home. Man, it was just overwhelming...the shear number of them....30 of our nation's finest. From what I am hearing now...22 are Navy SEALs, 8 are Marines and/or Army, and even a Navy SEAL dog was lost. Also killed was an Afghan interpreter and 7 Afghan soldiers.
Back in my room, I showered and made up a Mac-n-Cheese that a friend had sent me as well as a Larabar...and here I am. Today, I also received my re-deployment orders. In plain English, that means I received my GOING HOME orders! I'm still a good ways out from leaving but it's nice to know a key piece of the puzzle to putting me back on that Yellow Brick Road is in place. It's kinda like moving the jetway at the airport up to the plane so folks can get on or off. It's just that the plane isn't leaving anytime soon! Awesome to have in my grubby paws. With that, folks...I bid you all farewell and a great new week. If by chance our Fallen prompted you to fly Old Glory...consider leaving her out every day. Deal?
Goodnight, everyone.
This morning, I woke up at normal time, intent on working until around lunch then getting out of there. I was actually very busy all morning but around 1pm, I left. It was 97F today so I went straight back to my CHU where it was nice and cool and crawled into bed. Not too long after that, my youngest brother and his family called on Skype so I got to see all of them and talk for awhile. He just ran his longest ever (19 miles) trail run yesterday, too. He'll be running his first 50K on September 17th at one of my all time favorite races..in a Navy PT shirt! Pretty cool, I'd say. After that, I dozed off for an hour or two..who knows how long, then awoke to just lay there and watch some TV. As I noticed the sun was beginning to set and temperature begin to drop, I got my running gear on, complete with clear, ballistic glasses and neck gaiter pulled up to my eyeballs to keep all the crud out of my lungs and eyes. Have I mentioned I strongly dislike running here? I despise it but not as much as I despise the treadmill so outside it is. My shoes are now way beyond trashed and feel now like they're minimalist shoes. To my fortune, though, Dorothy mailed me a care package last week with a used pair of Brooks Glycerins from out of my garage. I have a brand new pair of Brooks at home but there is no way I'm wearing them out here. No shoe run in here should ever leave this place. The dust and filth simply destroys them...way worse than any trail mud I've ever run in.
Tonight on my perimeter run, I was mentally consumed by my fellow sailors, Navy SEALs who were killed two nights ago as they returned from a mission, about a 30 minute helo ride south of my location. I ended up dedicating tonight's run to them as I ran with Mr. Moon. I couldn't stop thinking about the Fallen Comrade Ceremony that will soon happen here. 30 metal caskets...30 American Flags...and 8 soldiers per casket to carry each one aboard an Air Force C-17. While I was in the office today, I exchanged some e-mails with an Army medical officer who was involved with Mortuary Affairs here on base. I once again volunteered myself to do anything at anytime for the Fallen. I won't be called, though...there is a HUGE outpouring of support here on the base for these heroes and I'm just not in the mix for being able to be a part. I really wish I could, though. Anyway, as I ran around the base, I was planning to stop in at the office again to check a few things online and had a post that was running through my head, over and over and over again...sort of a tribute to them. So, I quickly logged on to my Facebook account and posted the following:
"I am proud to be a U.S. Navy sailor. From E-1 to O-10, we stand as one when we lose our own. From deckplate sailors to engineers, to doctors, to mechanics, to pilots, and to Navy SEALs...we mourn together but even greater, we celebrate the Fallen's lives and heroic service and sacrifice to our country."
It really is true, isn't it? Shouldn't we celebrate them and all they did for our country? I think we should. We should mourn, too but it should be followed by celebrating their lives. They took the fight to the nastiest parts of the enemy where no one else on the planet will go. They were/are our country's finest and most elite fighting force. America: we lost so much on that downed Chinook. Can't we just leave the credit rating and stock market out of the news for just a day or two? Can we not get our priorities in line, even in a time like this?
I got back on the road, still consumed by their loss and thought again to the movie, Taking Chance. If you have not seen it, I am asking you...no, I am begging you to find it and rent it/buy it and watch it. Watch it as a family, too. There is nothing in it that a child cannot see. We watched it when my girls were 6 and 8 and I've watched it several more times. It is the true story of a Marine officer who escorts a fallen Marine home, starting at Dover Air Force Base. Dover is where these Fallen will go in the next few days. As I type this now, many of the Fallen's families are packing their things to go there. (the military flies the Next of Kin to Dover for free if they want to go) Back a few years ago, the military opened it up for families to witness their loved ones brought off the C-17, very ceremoniously before they are prepared for their journey home. The movie, in my opinion, is one that every single American should see. You will be forever changed, I promise you. Most of you live near a RedBox...check there. We found it there last year. Please watch it. There's another reason I thought about this movie tonight again. On my run, I always pass this diagonal road that has this little, homemade sign at the entrance that reads "Mortuary Affairs." Down that road only a few hundred yards are the Fallen Heroes that the world is talking about right now, being prepared to go home. Man, it was just overwhelming...the shear number of them....30 of our nation's finest. From what I am hearing now...22 are Navy SEALs, 8 are Marines and/or Army, and even a Navy SEAL dog was lost. Also killed was an Afghan interpreter and 7 Afghan soldiers.
Back in my room, I showered and made up a Mac-n-Cheese that a friend had sent me as well as a Larabar...and here I am. Today, I also received my re-deployment orders. In plain English, that means I received my GOING HOME orders! I'm still a good ways out from leaving but it's nice to know a key piece of the puzzle to putting me back on that Yellow Brick Road is in place. It's kinda like moving the jetway at the airport up to the plane so folks can get on or off. It's just that the plane isn't leaving anytime soon! Awesome to have in my grubby paws. With that, folks...I bid you all farewell and a great new week. If by chance our Fallen prompted you to fly Old Glory...consider leaving her out every day. Deal?
Goodnight, everyone.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Day 119
Friends...family...supporters...it's been a very sad day for America. By the time you read this, I must assume you've run across some headline referring to the crashed Chinook helicopter that was shot down here. Besides doing my job, that consumed everyone today and continues to be the topic of discussion here as we await our fallen heroes to arrive here on my base.
My day started like any other...that is, if you count my day starting at 5am or so when I wake up. Technically, though, 12:45am is "today" so really, it did not start like any other day. It's not easy to scream on my blog but let me try: "INCOMING, INCOMING, INCOMING!!!!!! (insert screaming siren) INCOMING, INCOMING, INCOMING!!!! Hmmm..nice alarm clock. About 10 seconds later, I hear and feel a BOOM!!! Yep, another rocket attack and obviously, it hit and it's not too far from me. I had never heard the incoming siren before, though. That was unsettling and made me sit straight up in my bed. Like I always do during rocket attacks, I immediately texted in that I was fine. A full accountability has to be done whenever this happens. About 15min later, the all-clear was given. Later on in the day, I learned no one was hurt. GREAT NEWS!!! I fell back asleep after the all-clear and slept the rest of the night.
Our Marine colonel was coming into "town" and I was his ride from the helicopter terminal to the office. It was delayed so I spent over an hour in the sun just watching BlackHawk helicopters land and take off. Soon after he landed and we returned to the office, I heard the news of the crash. A Chinook helicopter, the easily recognizable double-prop passenger/cargo helo that can carry large numbers of personnel, was shot down by insurgents as they returned from a mission, not too far south of me...about a 30min helo ride, to be exact. The details were sketchy throughout the day except for how many. 38 was the total count and we initially thought it was all Americans. Turns out, 31 are Americans and 7 were Afghan soldiers. Very bad, though, is that they are almost all U.S. Navy SEALs. Worse yet, most were part of SEAL Team 6...the ones who took out Osama bin Laden. I have no doubt that I've walked by some of these heroes as I walk this base. They don't wear uniforms, they often have beards, they have fake IDs, and everything they do is totally top secret. They also are our nation's most elite fighting force. They are true warriors in the rawest sense of the word.
In this part of the country, it's mountainous. The Chinook is like a big, fat, flying elephant in the sky. Add that to having to fly around mountains where insurgents hide with shoulder-mounted RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades), it's very dangerous. There's no way the insurgents knew the occupants of this helicopter but as the headlines hit, they are probably celebrating their victory..especially when they found out it had SEAL Team 6 onboard. They sicken me.
So now what? The fallen heroes begin the long trip home. They will be brought here to my base first where the mortuary will prepare them for the trip to Dover Air Force Base. All 31 of them. 31 metal caskets. 31 American Flags, and 8 soldiers per fallen hero will take a handle and carry them onboard the aircraft for the trip home. As they arrive here and are ready, the time will draw close to probably the largest-ever Fallen Comrade Ceremony that will take place here. From what I hear, they want to take them all home together, on the same aircraft. Such an aircraft will have to be the C-17 or something even larger. I cannot even begin to imagine 31 metal, flag-draped caskets on the deck of the aircraft. It is such a sad day for America. I recommend you start checking over the next few days that link I refer to often on the right side of the page for the Department of Defense. I expect that one post on a single day will list all 31 fallen heroes. Names, ages, hometowns, service, rank, command attached to, and how they died. There is a chance they won't be listed because they are SEALs but I'd still check...I know I will.
I just don't know what else to say today. I am just numb about it all and so sad for the many, many families back home. I can't see any better fitting thing to do but pray for them. Also, in honor of the fallen SEALs, I think it would be fitting to display their famed Trident device on my blog today. RIP, brothers.
My day started like any other...that is, if you count my day starting at 5am or so when I wake up. Technically, though, 12:45am is "today" so really, it did not start like any other day. It's not easy to scream on my blog but let me try: "INCOMING, INCOMING, INCOMING!!!!!! (insert screaming siren) INCOMING, INCOMING, INCOMING!!!! Hmmm..nice alarm clock. About 10 seconds later, I hear and feel a BOOM!!! Yep, another rocket attack and obviously, it hit and it's not too far from me. I had never heard the incoming siren before, though. That was unsettling and made me sit straight up in my bed. Like I always do during rocket attacks, I immediately texted in that I was fine. A full accountability has to be done whenever this happens. About 15min later, the all-clear was given. Later on in the day, I learned no one was hurt. GREAT NEWS!!! I fell back asleep after the all-clear and slept the rest of the night.
Our Marine colonel was coming into "town" and I was his ride from the helicopter terminal to the office. It was delayed so I spent over an hour in the sun just watching BlackHawk helicopters land and take off. Soon after he landed and we returned to the office, I heard the news of the crash. A Chinook helicopter, the easily recognizable double-prop passenger/cargo helo that can carry large numbers of personnel, was shot down by insurgents as they returned from a mission, not too far south of me...about a 30min helo ride, to be exact. The details were sketchy throughout the day except for how many. 38 was the total count and we initially thought it was all Americans. Turns out, 31 are Americans and 7 were Afghan soldiers. Very bad, though, is that they are almost all U.S. Navy SEALs. Worse yet, most were part of SEAL Team 6...the ones who took out Osama bin Laden. I have no doubt that I've walked by some of these heroes as I walk this base. They don't wear uniforms, they often have beards, they have fake IDs, and everything they do is totally top secret. They also are our nation's most elite fighting force. They are true warriors in the rawest sense of the word.
In this part of the country, it's mountainous. The Chinook is like a big, fat, flying elephant in the sky. Add that to having to fly around mountains where insurgents hide with shoulder-mounted RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades), it's very dangerous. There's no way the insurgents knew the occupants of this helicopter but as the headlines hit, they are probably celebrating their victory..especially when they found out it had SEAL Team 6 onboard. They sicken me.
So now what? The fallen heroes begin the long trip home. They will be brought here to my base first where the mortuary will prepare them for the trip to Dover Air Force Base. All 31 of them. 31 metal caskets. 31 American Flags, and 8 soldiers per fallen hero will take a handle and carry them onboard the aircraft for the trip home. As they arrive here and are ready, the time will draw close to probably the largest-ever Fallen Comrade Ceremony that will take place here. From what I hear, they want to take them all home together, on the same aircraft. Such an aircraft will have to be the C-17 or something even larger. I cannot even begin to imagine 31 metal, flag-draped caskets on the deck of the aircraft. It is such a sad day for America. I recommend you start checking over the next few days that link I refer to often on the right side of the page for the Department of Defense. I expect that one post on a single day will list all 31 fallen heroes. Names, ages, hometowns, service, rank, command attached to, and how they died. There is a chance they won't be listed because they are SEALs but I'd still check...I know I will.
I just don't know what else to say today. I am just numb about it all and so sad for the many, many families back home. I can't see any better fitting thing to do but pray for them. Also, in honor of the fallen SEALs, I think it would be fitting to display their famed Trident device on my blog today. RIP, brothers.
Goodnight, everyone. Pray hard for the families.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Day 118
Today started almost normal...I normally am the typical Spring chicken, hoppin' out of bed, brewing the espresso and getting the day moving. Today I just laid there, not wanting to move. Eventually, the clock moved in such a way that forced me out. On with the day...
Each Friday, I have a 9:30am meeting which is about 1/2 mile away. I got there about 15min early, only to find signs taped to doors that read things like "Go to the flight line immediately" or "Closed for Fallen Comrade Ceremony." OK, that last one made a whole lot more sense to me. Clearly, the host of my 9:30am meeting had another member killed. They are a Guard unit out of Oklahoma and have only been here about a month.
I had never been to a Fallen Comrade Ceremony but sadly, they happen all too often here as we are the main base that fallen service-members are flown out of and we also have a mortuary. Today, though, I was a very short walk from the flight line where it was going to be held any moment. I hustled over there quickly and out to the flight line. In the distance, I could see flags flying near a C-130 aircraft and a formation of a couple hundred soldiers. I quickened my pace to get there before anything started. The following is my personal account of what I witnessed next. If you've seen the movie Taking Chance, starring Kevin Bacon, what I witnessed is what happens in the very beginning of that movie when the fallen are loaded aboard the aircraft in the pouring rain. Today, though, it was hot and sunny like every other day here. So I stood at "parade rest" near the back of the formation of soldiers...
"I found my place near the back as to not disturb anyone around me. Everyone was standing at "parade rest" which is feet shoulder-width apart and hands folded at an angle at the small of our back. Everyone was still. I heard nothing but landing and departing aircraft in the distance. As usual, the wind was blowing. Directly out from me was the open backside of a large C-130 cargo plane. Flanking the ramp was the military band, ready to play. Also standing nearby but closer to me was a few ranks of soldiers numbering 16. Out of the corner of my right eye, two Humvees pulled up and stopped. I saw a few stars. I saw a few stripes. Our fallen comrades are in those Humvees. All of a sudden, shouts of "Attention!" were heard and everyone snapped to attention, including me. Next - "Present....ARMS!" As the hairs began to rise on my neck, I rendered the salute I had never rendered before. As an officer, I am saluted all day, every day up and down the road. Those salutes are quick..up and down and done. Today, though...rendering a salute to my fallen comrades is done slow...very slow. In unison, the entire formation I was standing in raised their right arms to the brim of their hats and eyes set intently forward. No movement. No sounds. Silence. Slowly, the two Humvees passed in front of us and the Stars and Stripes because clearly visible. Just like I'd seen in the movies and in photos, the caskets were metal and surrounded by handles. Old Glory covered them and was secured to the top lid, leaving the shiny metal exposed at the bottom. As the Humvees came to a stop off to the left and left of center of the C-130, the order was given to lower our salutes. The 16 soldiers now marched very slowly and deliberately into position. 4 x 4 at each Humvee, ready to receive their fallen brothers-in-arms. The order was given again..."Present....ARMS!" Slowly, we saluted yet again. The 16 soldiers were removing the fallen and when the fallen move, honors are presented in the form of a salute. By this time, the band was playing right of center and near the C-130. I couldn't make out any of the music they were playing but it was very somber. Slowly...ever so slowly...the 16 soldiers stood end-to-end and started their slow march towards the ramp of the C-130. Their steps couldn't have been more than 6-12". In unison, though, they marched smartly with their brothers at their side, led by a Color Guard. We maintained our salute until the fallen had been lowered to the deck within the C-130. Outside, the band continued to play while the caskets were affixed to the flight-deck for their trip to Dover Air Force Base in the States where the mortuary would take care of them. At Dover, they would be cleaned and dressed in their full dress uniform with all earned medals properly worn...most of which will have a Purple Heart. Back at the airfield, the formation was dismissed but I stood and waited. I really wanted to see this to completion and in my head, I was thinking how I must never, ever forget this. I never wanted to forget the respect and honor these two men were shown today. I also forced my mind elsewhere. Silently, I was praying for their family and loved ones who only a day or so ago, had the well-known knock at the door, notifying them of what happened. It's not just the fallen I remember. I always think of the ripple effect of what has happened and what will last for a very long time to come. One of these soldiers was 37 years old..I am 38. The other is unknown as he was special forces so his identity, manner of death, etc. is top secret. Anyway, as I stood there and watched, the command chaplains stood at the ramp and awaited the lead chaplain who was still in the plane, praying over the fallen soldiers. Once he had finished, he exited and greeted the other chaplains. (Chaplains are everywhere when someone dies because often, fellow soldiers who were close to the fallen and may have been right there when it happened need someone to talk to who will listen...and perhaps even a shoulder to cry on. They have to be allowed to grieve.) As the chaplains conversed near the aircraft, I approached a fellow officer and inquired as to some particulars I was observing and she ended being a part of Combat Camera. She told me that they create a video of much of the events, starting at the mortuary and onto the C-130 and compile it into a DVD to be presented to the family at the funeral. They want to show families the honor their fallen loved ones were shown before going home. After the lead chaplain was done, I left. There was truly nothing else to be seen. The back hatch was closing and the C-130's engines were firing up."
Friends/family/supporters...I hope I never, ever forget what I witnessed today. As I stood there, I thought about how America is sleeping and has no idea about this. It was about 2am on the East Coast so that was true. It would soon be Friday morning for them, they'd awake and head to work. Over here, though, our fallen were in the sky, en route to the country they just gave their lives for. Heroes... The quiet...the honor...the respect they were shown as they departed reached deep, deep inside me and emotion flushed throughout...how could it not? They were not supposed to go home like that! But yet...there they lie, draped in the colors of their country, returning home far too early.
I have mentioned it before and will mention it again today. I have provided a link on the right side of my blog that takes you to the Department of Defense News Release website. It is updated around the clock and every fallen comrade is listed there after Next of Kin has been notified. Make it a point to stop by there every few days and acknowledge their sacrifice and pray for their family and loved ones who will soon receive them home. Thank you.
Goodnight, everyone.
Each Friday, I have a 9:30am meeting which is about 1/2 mile away. I got there about 15min early, only to find signs taped to doors that read things like "Go to the flight line immediately" or "Closed for Fallen Comrade Ceremony." OK, that last one made a whole lot more sense to me. Clearly, the host of my 9:30am meeting had another member killed. They are a Guard unit out of Oklahoma and have only been here about a month.
I had never been to a Fallen Comrade Ceremony but sadly, they happen all too often here as we are the main base that fallen service-members are flown out of and we also have a mortuary. Today, though, I was a very short walk from the flight line where it was going to be held any moment. I hustled over there quickly and out to the flight line. In the distance, I could see flags flying near a C-130 aircraft and a formation of a couple hundred soldiers. I quickened my pace to get there before anything started. The following is my personal account of what I witnessed next. If you've seen the movie Taking Chance, starring Kevin Bacon, what I witnessed is what happens in the very beginning of that movie when the fallen are loaded aboard the aircraft in the pouring rain. Today, though, it was hot and sunny like every other day here. So I stood at "parade rest" near the back of the formation of soldiers...
"I found my place near the back as to not disturb anyone around me. Everyone was standing at "parade rest" which is feet shoulder-width apart and hands folded at an angle at the small of our back. Everyone was still. I heard nothing but landing and departing aircraft in the distance. As usual, the wind was blowing. Directly out from me was the open backside of a large C-130 cargo plane. Flanking the ramp was the military band, ready to play. Also standing nearby but closer to me was a few ranks of soldiers numbering 16. Out of the corner of my right eye, two Humvees pulled up and stopped. I saw a few stars. I saw a few stripes. Our fallen comrades are in those Humvees. All of a sudden, shouts of "Attention!" were heard and everyone snapped to attention, including me. Next - "Present....ARMS!" As the hairs began to rise on my neck, I rendered the salute I had never rendered before. As an officer, I am saluted all day, every day up and down the road. Those salutes are quick..up and down and done. Today, though...rendering a salute to my fallen comrades is done slow...very slow. In unison, the entire formation I was standing in raised their right arms to the brim of their hats and eyes set intently forward. No movement. No sounds. Silence. Slowly, the two Humvees passed in front of us and the Stars and Stripes because clearly visible. Just like I'd seen in the movies and in photos, the caskets were metal and surrounded by handles. Old Glory covered them and was secured to the top lid, leaving the shiny metal exposed at the bottom. As the Humvees came to a stop off to the left and left of center of the C-130, the order was given to lower our salutes. The 16 soldiers now marched very slowly and deliberately into position. 4 x 4 at each Humvee, ready to receive their fallen brothers-in-arms. The order was given again..."Present....ARMS!" Slowly, we saluted yet again. The 16 soldiers were removing the fallen and when the fallen move, honors are presented in the form of a salute. By this time, the band was playing right of center and near the C-130. I couldn't make out any of the music they were playing but it was very somber. Slowly...ever so slowly...the 16 soldiers stood end-to-end and started their slow march towards the ramp of the C-130. Their steps couldn't have been more than 6-12". In unison, though, they marched smartly with their brothers at their side, led by a Color Guard. We maintained our salute until the fallen had been lowered to the deck within the C-130. Outside, the band continued to play while the caskets were affixed to the flight-deck for their trip to Dover Air Force Base in the States where the mortuary would take care of them. At Dover, they would be cleaned and dressed in their full dress uniform with all earned medals properly worn...most of which will have a Purple Heart. Back at the airfield, the formation was dismissed but I stood and waited. I really wanted to see this to completion and in my head, I was thinking how I must never, ever forget this. I never wanted to forget the respect and honor these two men were shown today. I also forced my mind elsewhere. Silently, I was praying for their family and loved ones who only a day or so ago, had the well-known knock at the door, notifying them of what happened. It's not just the fallen I remember. I always think of the ripple effect of what has happened and what will last for a very long time to come. One of these soldiers was 37 years old..I am 38. The other is unknown as he was special forces so his identity, manner of death, etc. is top secret. Anyway, as I stood there and watched, the command chaplains stood at the ramp and awaited the lead chaplain who was still in the plane, praying over the fallen soldiers. Once he had finished, he exited and greeted the other chaplains. (Chaplains are everywhere when someone dies because often, fellow soldiers who were close to the fallen and may have been right there when it happened need someone to talk to who will listen...and perhaps even a shoulder to cry on. They have to be allowed to grieve.) As the chaplains conversed near the aircraft, I approached a fellow officer and inquired as to some particulars I was observing and she ended being a part of Combat Camera. She told me that they create a video of much of the events, starting at the mortuary and onto the C-130 and compile it into a DVD to be presented to the family at the funeral. They want to show families the honor their fallen loved ones were shown before going home. After the lead chaplain was done, I left. There was truly nothing else to be seen. The back hatch was closing and the C-130's engines were firing up."
Friends/family/supporters...I hope I never, ever forget what I witnessed today. As I stood there, I thought about how America is sleeping and has no idea about this. It was about 2am on the East Coast so that was true. It would soon be Friday morning for them, they'd awake and head to work. Over here, though, our fallen were in the sky, en route to the country they just gave their lives for. Heroes... The quiet...the honor...the respect they were shown as they departed reached deep, deep inside me and emotion flushed throughout...how could it not? They were not supposed to go home like that! But yet...there they lie, draped in the colors of their country, returning home far too early.
I have mentioned it before and will mention it again today. I have provided a link on the right side of my blog that takes you to the Department of Defense News Release website. It is updated around the clock and every fallen comrade is listed there after Next of Kin has been notified. Make it a point to stop by there every few days and acknowledge their sacrifice and pray for their family and loved ones who will soon receive them home. Thank you.
Goodnight, everyone.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Day 117
What can I say? It's Day 117. That little, tiny 4 month barrier teases at the doorstep. We're a good bit past halfway now and I'm creating milestones everywhere I look. I make them up so I'm constantly hitting something. The 120 day point (aka: 4 months), my advancement date on the 20th of this month, my 90 days/60 days/30 days to go points, the 1st days of the month, when my county fair is back in "Kansas," when the first day of school is, when major running events take place, when new personnel will show up, when MY relief shows up, when I check back into the Navy here in Afghanistan so they can put me on one of those C-17s and get me back on the Yellow Brick Road...all milestones. The key to survival truly is distraction...varied distraction. It makes the days vaporize in front of me. That doesn't mean time is moving quickly because it is not, but it gives me other things to distract me from just feeling sorry for myself because I miss HOME so bad. Tricky stuff!!!
So today...probably the busiest day yet. I've seen the coming storm for awhile and it appears that it's beginning. What storm? The storm of units scrambling to place major orders for items necessary for sustainment of their troops through the winter. Where I'm at, it gets down near zero degrees. Hard to believe when it was 97 flippin' degrees today. Things involving power generation (one of the major things I facilitate) and tents for troops to live in, eat in, and do just about anything in. Heck, in my short time here, I've pushed over $30 million through the pipeline...just me alone. I think I'll far surpass that in my 2nd half of time here. The best thing? I know what I'm doing, I have the answers they all want, and I know how to make it happen and happen efficiently. At one point, I had 3 soldiers standing at my desk today, completely confused on what to do next and once I was done with them, nothing could have made me happier than to hear: "It all makes sense now. Thank...You..." ...and so they went. The best parts of my job here are undoubtedly the times that I sit face-to-face with young soldiers and equip them with what they need to accomplish what their bosses are all over them for to get done. It gives me the "warm fuzzy" that my presence, while not a vacation in the sand, is serving a purpose. Without that, I'd be struggling far more inside than I already do.
This evening, all of our rooms were without power so I just hung around outside and didn't do much until power came back on and the A/C was pumping in my CHU again. Oh yea...I did go back to the chow hall and grabbed a cup of praline ice cream. I was hot, sticky, and like just plain yuck and that ice cream sounded too good not to go get. It's the only ice cream I'll eat here and is super good. I don't care for any other dessert out here...no cakes, cookies, or any other flavor of ice cream. Praline...that's where it's at!
As I was wrapping up this post, I came across a post that was put up online by a fellow sailor's wife. I must say...it really does sum up my life out here. The truest colors of people and friends have risen to the top and the opposite is also true. Such a great quote so I had to share it with you to close out today.
So today...probably the busiest day yet. I've seen the coming storm for awhile and it appears that it's beginning. What storm? The storm of units scrambling to place major orders for items necessary for sustainment of their troops through the winter. Where I'm at, it gets down near zero degrees. Hard to believe when it was 97 flippin' degrees today. Things involving power generation (one of the major things I facilitate) and tents for troops to live in, eat in, and do just about anything in. Heck, in my short time here, I've pushed over $30 million through the pipeline...just me alone. I think I'll far surpass that in my 2nd half of time here. The best thing? I know what I'm doing, I have the answers they all want, and I know how to make it happen and happen efficiently. At one point, I had 3 soldiers standing at my desk today, completely confused on what to do next and once I was done with them, nothing could have made me happier than to hear: "It all makes sense now. Thank...You..." ...and so they went. The best parts of my job here are undoubtedly the times that I sit face-to-face with young soldiers and equip them with what they need to accomplish what their bosses are all over them for to get done. It gives me the "warm fuzzy" that my presence, while not a vacation in the sand, is serving a purpose. Without that, I'd be struggling far more inside than I already do.
This evening, all of our rooms were without power so I just hung around outside and didn't do much until power came back on and the A/C was pumping in my CHU again. Oh yea...I did go back to the chow hall and grabbed a cup of praline ice cream. I was hot, sticky, and like just plain yuck and that ice cream sounded too good not to go get. It's the only ice cream I'll eat here and is super good. I don't care for any other dessert out here...no cakes, cookies, or any other flavor of ice cream. Praline...that's where it's at!
As I was wrapping up this post, I came across a post that was put up online by a fellow sailor's wife. I must say...it really does sum up my life out here. The truest colors of people and friends have risen to the top and the opposite is also true. Such a great quote so I had to share it with you to close out today.
"There comes a time in your life, when you'll walk away from all the drama and people who created it. You'll surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Forget the bad, and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living."
Goodnight, everyone.
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