Chaplain says we lost two more this past week from our post... SF guys...
The battles out there are really picking up.
Had a buddy at a FOB go through 1000+ rounds of 30mm ammunition and nearly 300 rockets in a four hour period loading them onto birds... amazing.
It's going to intensify.
Busy month ahead.
31 July 2005
Thanking Soldiers...
I'm not about to presume to speak for all servicemembers...
But.
I thought I'd give a peek behind the curtain. Many, many of you write in with messages of "Thank You" in one form or another. Y'all seem shocked, and I suppose justifiably, when you find out from your Soldier that... we're not too comfortable with that. You'll hear that we're "just doing our job" or some other response.
I'm one of those. I don't feel comfortable with the Thank You's. They ARE appreciated. I just don't feel like I'm doing anything that special. There's guys sacrificing even more, and who deserve heaps of praise.
That's one side of the thought process.
Now, when we get together and talk amongst ourselves, you'll hear how much we'd like to be thanked and appreciated for what we're doing over here. Yes, I know... I just said we're not comfortable with it.
So, how can we have it both ways?
Finally came to me. Soldiers don't like the individual attention. Just doing our job. BUT, we do want the effort en masse to be appreciated. Make sense?
Goes to why it's hard to get Soldiers to make requests for care packages... individual vs. group, thing.
So, I hope this helps some... Guess it sums up to... Soldiers don't want the spotlight on themselves, more like the floodlight on everyone...
But.
I thought I'd give a peek behind the curtain. Many, many of you write in with messages of "Thank You" in one form or another. Y'all seem shocked, and I suppose justifiably, when you find out from your Soldier that... we're not too comfortable with that. You'll hear that we're "just doing our job" or some other response.
I'm one of those. I don't feel comfortable with the Thank You's. They ARE appreciated. I just don't feel like I'm doing anything that special. There's guys sacrificing even more, and who deserve heaps of praise.
That's one side of the thought process.
Now, when we get together and talk amongst ourselves, you'll hear how much we'd like to be thanked and appreciated for what we're doing over here. Yes, I know... I just said we're not comfortable with it.
So, how can we have it both ways?
Finally came to me. Soldiers don't like the individual attention. Just doing our job. BUT, we do want the effort en masse to be appreciated. Make sense?
Goes to why it's hard to get Soldiers to make requests for care packages... individual vs. group, thing.
So, I hope this helps some... Guess it sums up to... Soldiers don't want the spotlight on themselves, more like the floodlight on everyone...
30 July 2005
Gag Order Lifted
It was brief, but it's lifted, and all is back to normal now. Cannot discuss why for the gag order (but if you look at a history of such, you may see why...)
Anyways, let me catch up on the e-mail, and postings... August is almost here!
Anyways, let me catch up on the e-mail, and postings... August is almost here!
29 July 2005
28 July 2005
Some miscellaneous pictures
Well, I have taken a pic or two, here and there... so, here are some for you.
First, one of the British Harrier jets landing. They are LOUD. Anyone who's seen True Lies, and remembers the part where the Harrier hovers and sneaks up onto the criminal... PAH! No such thing. We know when they're landing, and need hearing protection when they do.
Next up, you'll see some of Afghanistan's finest residents - the Camel Spider. Ferocious looking thing.
And finally, me hard at work running tests in one of our birds. Almost a recruiting poster. hahaha.
First, one of the British Harrier jets landing. They are LOUD. Anyone who's seen True Lies, and remembers the part where the Harrier hovers and sneaks up onto the criminal... PAH! No such thing. We know when they're landing, and need hearing protection when they do.
Next up, you'll see some of Afghanistan's finest residents - the Camel Spider. Ferocious looking thing.
And finally, me hard at work running tests in one of our birds. Almost a recruiting poster. hahaha.
27 July 2005
It's not so hot... or, is it?
Lately I've noticed that it doesn't seem so hot. I think I must be acclimated by now. Thermometers still show it's hot... just doesn't quite feel it so intensely. Just an observation.
Of course, July is winding down... soon, it may actually start to cool.
The war, however, is hot as ever. Intense mission support. Lots of rounds being expended. All about this election coming up.
Which brings me to this hot button of mine... next time you hear someone complain that the TWELVE hours the polling station is open isn't enough, or that they had to stand in line, or other such nonsense... just remember... if you don't have to look in the sky to check for helicopters guarding the polling area, or the booth isn't guarded by troops... our elections just may not be so bad.
This country is fighting to have peaceful elections... and we gripe and moan and... well, we really should be ashamed sometimes.
Of course, July is winding down... soon, it may actually start to cool.
The war, however, is hot as ever. Intense mission support. Lots of rounds being expended. All about this election coming up.
Which brings me to this hot button of mine... next time you hear someone complain that the TWELVE hours the polling station is open isn't enough, or that they had to stand in line, or other such nonsense... just remember... if you don't have to look in the sky to check for helicopters guarding the polling area, or the booth isn't guarded by troops... our elections just may not be so bad.
This country is fighting to have peaceful elections... and we gripe and moan and... well, we really should be ashamed sometimes.
Found this gem...
Over on the sidebar, you'll notice I added a new group. Operation: Soldiers to the Movies. This organization sends DVDs, popcorn, candy, and drinks to servicemembers deployed.
From what I've seen, one of the #1 ways Soldiers entertain themselves is by DVDs. Huge collections are shared and passed around.
So, take a look...
From what I've seen, one of the #1 ways Soldiers entertain themselves is by DVDs. Huge collections are shared and passed around.
So, take a look...
26 July 2005
Why I Joined the Army
Many of you have asked how I came to join the Army.
Good question.
Where to begin? I suppose part of it goes back to the fact that I've long wanted to serve in the military. My father is retired Army, and I've known many folks in the service. Just always seemed the right thing to do. My preference was always the Air Force. My dream was to be an in flight refueler - the guys who go up in a tanker plane and refuel other aircraft midair. Seemed to be a wonderful job.
The one problem was my weight. I have long been heavy. To give an example, I've included some pictures of me from the civilian world.
Good question.
Where to begin? I suppose part of it goes back to the fact that I've long wanted to serve in the military. My father is retired Army, and I've known many folks in the service. Just always seemed the right thing to do. My preference was always the Air Force. My dream was to be an in flight refueler - the guys who go up in a tanker plane and refuel other aircraft midair. Seemed to be a wonderful job.
The one problem was my weight. I have long been heavy. To give an example, I've included some pictures of me from the civilian world.
So, anyway... life is interesting. It eventually just seemed that the military became more and more of a youthful dream. I had a career. I'd gotten married (to my first wife). Life was continuing along the way... and the military was falling by the wayside.
More and more... it faded. My career was becoming more and more successful. I was getting older. Things were just ducky.
And then.
9/11.
Those first few days were nothing but work for me. I was working almost literally around the clock as we tried to handle the repercussions of the attack. For our business, it was an absolute disaster, plus we had to try to handle all of our customers stranded around the country.
Finally, I took some down time. I went to Ellicia's... and just let it out. I was emotionally devastated. I'd never imagined us being attacked so directly.
As the months began to pass, I watched as we geared up for war and eventually took the fight back to the Taliban in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, life in the states quickly returned to normal. There was no war here.
We continued living comfortably, and as often happens, those who are comfortable must complain about minor things.
It grated on me. I listened, day in and day out, to customers complaining about minute details. Truly trivial things were blown into life and death absurdities. Meanwhile, I'd be reading on the internet about our Soldiers fighting the war.
I came to realized that I was in the wrong place.
I needed to be contributing to the fight. My country had been attacked. I was sitting at a desk listening to whiners complain (to be fair, there were genuine complaints, and I helped many people through genuine issues). I went to find a recruiter.
Navy offered me $30,000 signing bonus. But, it was to serve on submarines, and be under water six months per year. Nope.
The Marines were willing to take me "as is". I, being no dummy, knew I didn't want to be some drill instructor's dream come true.
The Air Force wanted me to process several waivers and it'd take two years to join. Too long.
The Army... wanted less of me, but was willing. The recruiter helped me work out, shed over a hundred pounds.
And so, on 22 October 2002, I found myself with a bunch of young kids, raising my hand and saying my first Oath of Enlistment.
I still had work to finish, and went off to India for a few (miserable) months, but finally shipped off to Basic in February, 2003.
So, here I am. 67% pay cut later... living in a barracks in Afghanistan. Contributing to the effort to defeat the people who have tried to hurt us for so long (yes, long... this war didn't start on 9/11.)
Life here isn't easy... the money isn't great. But, I'll say this. I miss my career. I enjoyed what I did, managing teams of people... but, I feel right at the end of the day. I'm doing what I think is the right thing. I don't feel guilty sitting at a desk, living the good life... knowing Soldiers were sacrificing. I never in the world imagined myself turning wrenches or loading rockets and bullets into helicopters while living in Afghanistan... but I wouldn't trade this at all.
I want my children to know that Daddy did something when it came time to be called. I want to show them what JFK meant when he said, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what YOU can do for your country."
Follow-up to Shuttle Launch
Referring to my earlier post...
I'd like to recommend two DVD's to all of you out there.
The first is From the Earth to the Moon. This is a documentary produced by Tom Hanks about our epic journey towards the moon. The interesting thing is that it shows so many different facets of the story. Even those who've never shown the least interest in our space history have been enraptured by this DVD collection.
It's well worth the investment (for you penny pinchers out there, you get more video time per dollar than most movies.) So, go to Amazon and pick up your copy today. Sit down with the family and learn about all that it took to get mankind from the Earth to the Moon.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000A0GYD2/ref=reg_hu-wl_item-added/002-0372989-5399259?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance
Now, this next movie is truly special. One of the benefits of space travel is being able to see our universe from a unique and different perspective. For All Mankind is a film composed Entirely of footage filmed by the astronauts themselves. It's edited together, with commentary, and is spectacular.
This is a gem that is little known but is a MUST see.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0780022319/qid=1122404768/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-0372989-5399259?v=glance&s=dvd
Want to know more? Drop a line and I'll chat your fingers to the bone about this...
I'd like to recommend two DVD's to all of you out there.
The first is From the Earth to the Moon. This is a documentary produced by Tom Hanks about our epic journey towards the moon. The interesting thing is that it shows so many different facets of the story. Even those who've never shown the least interest in our space history have been enraptured by this DVD collection.
It's well worth the investment (for you penny pinchers out there, you get more video time per dollar than most movies.) So, go to Amazon and pick up your copy today. Sit down with the family and learn about all that it took to get mankind from the Earth to the Moon.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000A0GYD2/ref=reg_hu-wl_item-added/002-0372989-5399259?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance
Now, this next movie is truly special. One of the benefits of space travel is being able to see our universe from a unique and different perspective. For All Mankind is a film composed Entirely of footage filmed by the astronauts themselves. It's edited together, with commentary, and is spectacular.
This is a gem that is little known but is a MUST see.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0780022319/qid=1122404768/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-0372989-5399259?v=glance&s=dvd
Want to know more? Drop a line and I'll chat your fingers to the bone about this...
She Flies...
The shuttle launched today. And, through the miracles of modern technology, I followed along from Afghanistan. If you can picture it, I took m easy chair outside the barracks, brought a Coke, and my laptop and satellite radio receiver. Focused in on the satellite, tuned in Fox News, and listened. Can't really watch the video over the web as the speed is too slow, but listened.
Now, backstory... I love space launches. I am a HUGE fan, advocate, and believer in the exploration of space. I vividly remember my first launch, 11 November 1982, for STS-5. This was the first operational shuttle launch, and my father drove all night to Florida to let me watch. What an amazing sight to see Columbia (RIP) thunder to the sky. And of course, I knew every step of the flight, what was going on. I was hooked.
I have attended both Space Camp and Space Academy. Even commanded a shuttle "mission", winning best mission award.
I will never forget where I was or what I was doing when Challenger died. (Yes, to me, the craft come alive for the launches, and like their crews, die when lost.) My parents will probably tell you how that night I watched the videotape over and over, in super slow motion, trying (and succeeding) to see what had gone wrong. Even with such basic technology, I could make out the leak of flame that was a blowtorch to the fuel tank.
Once I got old enough, I began making pilgrimages to the Cape. Every time there was a launch, I'd go. I jiggled work schedules, whatever it took. Sometimes, the shuttle didn't go. NEVER a problem. Safety first, as far as I am concerned.
I had such joy in sharing the experience with whomever I could convince to make the journey. I introduced my mother and step-father to the thrill, and even better, by doing so as close as possible.
And now, here I am... far away from the Cape. And Discovery's first launch date was not convenient for me to watch. But today... perfect. I just made it back from work to listen.
It saddens me how it seemed that the media was almost hoping for something to go wrong. As if there was no way that we could overcome the difficulties, the odds of something going wrong, and succeeding. A lack of faith... worse, a loss of the dream.
There is such a fantastic dream in sending people into space. Over thirty five years ago, man walked on the moon. We haven't been back. Besides of the incredible arrogance that the "Been there... so what" attitude that we seem to have about the Moon, we have seemed to lost not only the dream of exploring, but the desire.
We must continue to return to space. There WILL be more tragedies. Thousands died developing air travel (not yet perfected, I might point out.) More crossing the oceans. Exploring the West. Connecting Europe and Asia for the spice trade.
It's not easy...
It's not supposed to be. If it were, it'd already be done. If it were, the world would not have held it's collective breath for Freedom 7, Apollo 11, Columbia, and now... Discovery.
Thank you to the crew of Discovery, for being brave enough to climb aboard an immense bomb and say, "Send me."
25 July 2005
Thomas Update
Thomas had his follow-up hearing appointment today. Ellicia reports that he hears normally. No problems.
What a blessing and relief!
Good news!
What a blessing and relief!
Good news!
20 July 2005
James Doohan has died.
Ok, this has nothing to do with Afghanistan.
The world lost another of the original "Star Trek" actors today. James "Jimmy" Doohan played Scotty in the Star Trek. Even if you've never watched "Star Trek" (What?! Have you been living in a cave???), you know the phrase "Beam me up, Scotty."
Doohan was special amongst the actors. One reason was his genuine affability. He was always genial and happy in his philosophies. He was a joy in person, and I'd had the pleasure of meeting him several times.
He was also a Soldier. He landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day with the Canadians. He was wounded six times, including the loss of a finger.
Doohan never shied from his fame or association with "Star Trek". His legacy will be one of sharing with the fans, including saving one notable one from suicide.
Scotty is gone, another one of the famous crew gone. Slowly, the door on the original "Star Trek" seems to be closing. It's a finality that's inescapable... no warp speed or shields to stop it.
I will miss Doohan being around, but am glad, yes, glad he died. Recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, he faced a future of being robbed of his mind - instead, he was blessed to die with his wife by his side, and mind still there. It was our culture robbed, but... that was always destined to happen.
"Star Trek" is a legacy that will live on for generations to come (yes, I believe that - it's one of our society's cultural legends) and through it, so will Doohan. We'll always be able to go back and see that smile, hear the laugh, and call out to have him beam us up.
God speed, Scotty. And thank you.
The world lost another of the original "Star Trek" actors today. James "Jimmy" Doohan played Scotty in the Star Trek. Even if you've never watched "Star Trek" (What?! Have you been living in a cave???), you know the phrase "Beam me up, Scotty."
Doohan was special amongst the actors. One reason was his genuine affability. He was always genial and happy in his philosophies. He was a joy in person, and I'd had the pleasure of meeting him several times.
He was also a Soldier. He landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day with the Canadians. He was wounded six times, including the loss of a finger.
Doohan never shied from his fame or association with "Star Trek". His legacy will be one of sharing with the fans, including saving one notable one from suicide.
Scotty is gone, another one of the famous crew gone. Slowly, the door on the original "Star Trek" seems to be closing. It's a finality that's inescapable... no warp speed or shields to stop it.
I will miss Doohan being around, but am glad, yes, glad he died. Recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, he faced a future of being robbed of his mind - instead, he was blessed to die with his wife by his side, and mind still there. It was our culture robbed, but... that was always destined to happen.
"Star Trek" is a legacy that will live on for generations to come (yes, I believe that - it's one of our society's cultural legends) and through it, so will Doohan. We'll always be able to go back and see that smile, hear the laugh, and call out to have him beam us up.
God speed, Scotty. And thank you.
Big Yellow Bird...
Mail's here...!!!!
Yesterday, THREE DHL birds came flying in... Two big ones, and a little one. YAY. So much mail, that the mail handlers here are backed up for a bit.
So far, I've gotten two boxes. Thanks Dad for the Slim Jims and lemonade.
And more books came in from yet another well-meaning soul...
Thank you, all.
Yesterday, THREE DHL birds came flying in... Two big ones, and a little one. YAY. So much mail, that the mail handlers here are backed up for a bit.
So far, I've gotten two boxes. Thanks Dad for the Slim Jims and lemonade.
And more books came in from yet another well-meaning soul...
Thank you, all.
Some light-hearted stuff...
It's not just for spam anymore... now we can share via the web!
Anyway, a good friend of mine (and Marine Reservist) sent me a bunch of these.
COWS
Is it just me, or does anyone else find it amazing that our government can track a cow born in Canada almost three years ago, right to the stall where she sleeps in the state of Washington And they tracked her calves to their stalls. But they are unable to locate 11 million illegal aliens wandering around our country. Maybe we should give them all a cow.
CONSTITUTION
They keep talking about drafting a Constitution for Iraq. Why don't we just give them ours? It was written by a lot of really smart guys, it's worked for over 200 years and we're not using it anymore.
TEN COMMANDMENTS
The real reason that we can't have the Ten Commandments in a Courthouse! You cannot post "Thou Shalt Not Steal," "Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery" and "Thou Shall Not Lie" in a building full of lawyers, judges and politicians! It creates a hostile work environment!
AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST
George Carlin said it best about Martha Stewart . "Boy, I feel a lot safer now that she's behind bars. O.J. Simpson and Kobe Bryant are still walking around; Osama Bin Laden too, but they take the one woman in America willing to cook, clean, and work in the yard, and haul her butt off to jail."
WOULDN'T IT BE GREAT TO TURN ON THE TV AND HEAR ANY U.S. PRESIDENT, DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN GIVE THE FOLLOWING SPEECH?
My Fellow Americans: As you all know, the defeat of Iraq regime has been completed.
Since congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our mission in Iraq is complete.
This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American forces from Iraq. This action will be complete within 30 days. It is now to begin the reckoning.
Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names of countries which have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict. This list is short. The United Kingdom, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, and Poland are some of the countries listed there.
The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be distributing copies of both lists later this evening.
Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the Iraqi war.
The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption.
Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France.
In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this money toward solving the vexing social problems we still have at home. On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face of the earth. Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France, or maybe China. I am ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, Germany, and Russia. Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis. I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid parking tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. You creeps have tens of thousands of unpaid tickets. Pay those tickets tomorrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers and limos be turned over to some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York !
A special note to our neighbors. Canada is on List 2. Since we are likely to be seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not pissing us off for a change. Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt government really need an attitude adjustment. I will have a couple extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I am going to put em? Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil. Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty - starting now. We are tired of the one-way highway. Immediately, we'll be drilling for oil in Alaska - which will take care of this country's oil needs for decades to come. If you're an environmentalist who opposes this decision, I refer you to List 2 above: pick a country and move there. They care. It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying, "darn tootin." Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America. It is time to eliminate homelessness in America. To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you and we won't forget. To the nations on List 2, a final thought: You might want to learn to speak Arabic. God bless America. Thank you and good night.
Letter appearing in the Arizona Republic on June 23rd (the original letter writer has since apologized):
A wake-up call from Luke's jets
Question of the day for Luke Air Force Base: Whom do we thank for themorning air show?
Last Wednesday, at precisely 9:11 a.m., a tight formation of four F-16jets made a low pass over Arrowhead Mall, continuing west over Bell Roadat approximately 500 feet. Imagine our good fortune!
Do the Tom Cruise-wannabes feel we need this wake-up call, or were they trying to impress the cashiers at Mervyns' early-bird special? Any response would be appreciated. - Tom MacRae, Peoria
________________________________________________
The response: Flyby honored fallen comrade Jun. 28, 2005 12:00 AM
Regarding "A wake-up call from Luke's jets" (Letters, Thursday):
On June 15, at precisely 9:12 a.m., a perfectly timed four-ship ofF-16s from the 63rd Fighter Squadron at Luke Air Force Base flew over the grave of Capt Jeremy Fresques.Capt. Fresques was an Air Force officer who was previously stationed at Luke Air Force Base and was killed in Iraq on May 30, Memorial Day. At 9 a.m. on June 15, his family and friends gathered at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City to mourn the loss of a husband, son andfriend. Based on the letter writer's recount of the flyby, and because of the jet noise, I'm sure you didn't hear the 21-gun salute, the playing of taps, or my words to the widow and parents of Capt. Fresques as I gave them their son's flag on behalf of the president of the United States and all those veterans and servicemen and women who understand thesacrifices they have endured. A four-ship flyby is a display of respect the Air Force pays to those who give their lives in defense of freedom. We are professional aviators and take our jobs seriously, and on June 15 what the letter writer witnessed was four officers lining up to pay their ultimate respects. The letter writer asks, "Whom do we thank for the morning air show?" The 56th Fighter Wing will call for you, and forward your thanks tothe widow and parents of Capt. Fresques, and thank them for you, for itwas in their honor that my pilots flew the most honorable formation oftheir lives.
Lt. Col. Scott Pleus
Luke Air Force Base
The writer is commander of the 63rd Fighter Squadron.
Anyway, a good friend of mine (and Marine Reservist) sent me a bunch of these.
COWS
Is it just me, or does anyone else find it amazing that our government can track a cow born in Canada almost three years ago, right to the stall where she sleeps in the state of Washington And they tracked her calves to their stalls. But they are unable to locate 11 million illegal aliens wandering around our country. Maybe we should give them all a cow.
CONSTITUTION
They keep talking about drafting a Constitution for Iraq. Why don't we just give them ours? It was written by a lot of really smart guys, it's worked for over 200 years and we're not using it anymore.
TEN COMMANDMENTS
The real reason that we can't have the Ten Commandments in a Courthouse! You cannot post "Thou Shalt Not Steal," "Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery" and "Thou Shall Not Lie" in a building full of lawyers, judges and politicians! It creates a hostile work environment!
AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST
George Carlin said it best about Martha Stewart . "Boy, I feel a lot safer now that she's behind bars. O.J. Simpson and Kobe Bryant are still walking around; Osama Bin Laden too, but they take the one woman in America willing to cook, clean, and work in the yard, and haul her butt off to jail."
WOULDN'T IT BE GREAT TO TURN ON THE TV AND HEAR ANY U.S. PRESIDENT, DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN GIVE THE FOLLOWING SPEECH?
My Fellow Americans: As you all know, the defeat of Iraq regime has been completed.
Since congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our mission in Iraq is complete.
This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American forces from Iraq. This action will be complete within 30 days. It is now to begin the reckoning.
Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names of countries which have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict. This list is short. The United Kingdom, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, and Poland are some of the countries listed there.
The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be distributing copies of both lists later this evening.
Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the Iraqi war.
The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption.
Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France.
In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this money toward solving the vexing social problems we still have at home. On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face of the earth. Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France, or maybe China. I am ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, Germany, and Russia. Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis. I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid parking tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. You creeps have tens of thousands of unpaid tickets. Pay those tickets tomorrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers and limos be turned over to some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York !
A special note to our neighbors. Canada is on List 2. Since we are likely to be seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not pissing us off for a change. Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt government really need an attitude adjustment. I will have a couple extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I am going to put em? Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil. Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty - starting now. We are tired of the one-way highway. Immediately, we'll be drilling for oil in Alaska - which will take care of this country's oil needs for decades to come. If you're an environmentalist who opposes this decision, I refer you to List 2 above: pick a country and move there. They care. It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying, "darn tootin." Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America. It is time to eliminate homelessness in America. To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you and we won't forget. To the nations on List 2, a final thought: You might want to learn to speak Arabic. God bless America. Thank you and good night.
Letter appearing in the Arizona Republic on June 23rd (the original letter writer has since apologized):
A wake-up call from Luke's jets
Question of the day for Luke Air Force Base: Whom do we thank for themorning air show?
Last Wednesday, at precisely 9:11 a.m., a tight formation of four F-16jets made a low pass over Arrowhead Mall, continuing west over Bell Roadat approximately 500 feet. Imagine our good fortune!
Do the Tom Cruise-wannabes feel we need this wake-up call, or were they trying to impress the cashiers at Mervyns' early-bird special? Any response would be appreciated. - Tom MacRae, Peoria
________________________________________________
The response: Flyby honored fallen comrade Jun. 28, 2005 12:00 AM
Regarding "A wake-up call from Luke's jets" (Letters, Thursday):
On June 15, at precisely 9:12 a.m., a perfectly timed four-ship ofF-16s from the 63rd Fighter Squadron at Luke Air Force Base flew over the grave of Capt Jeremy Fresques.Capt. Fresques was an Air Force officer who was previously stationed at Luke Air Force Base and was killed in Iraq on May 30, Memorial Day. At 9 a.m. on June 15, his family and friends gathered at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City to mourn the loss of a husband, son andfriend. Based on the letter writer's recount of the flyby, and because of the jet noise, I'm sure you didn't hear the 21-gun salute, the playing of taps, or my words to the widow and parents of Capt. Fresques as I gave them their son's flag on behalf of the president of the United States and all those veterans and servicemen and women who understand thesacrifices they have endured. A four-ship flyby is a display of respect the Air Force pays to those who give their lives in defense of freedom. We are professional aviators and take our jobs seriously, and on June 15 what the letter writer witnessed was four officers lining up to pay their ultimate respects. The letter writer asks, "Whom do we thank for the morning air show?" The 56th Fighter Wing will call for you, and forward your thanks tothe widow and parents of Capt. Fresques, and thank them for you, for itwas in their honor that my pilots flew the most honorable formation oftheir lives.
Lt. Col. Scott Pleus
Luke Air Force Base
The writer is commander of the 63rd Fighter Squadron.
17 July 2005
My Hero...
Today, I'm not writing about me. I want to discuss my hero.
I'm talking about my wife. Today is our first anniversary. Obviously, it's not the way that we want to celebrate it, but as I've told her... the distance apart doesn't diminish my happiness being married to her.
I have to admire her. This is our second marriage for both of us. As I'm sure others who've remarried have thought, "... this time, it's going to be better." I'm not sure if what we have right now is what she was planning on, but I am impressed at how well she hangs in there.
A marriage that results in being more like a single mom than a couple.
More time apart (so far) than together.
My Sweet, who has rarely left the comfortable local area of her hometown has picked up, moved to Germany (middle of nowhere, no less) and embraced living in a foreign land without her husband as a guide.
Switching over to Army life. There's a WHOLE new set of rules to play by. (For all who want to know what's it like to have the government in EVERY part of your life... enlist - get it out of your system.)
Raising three beautiful children... alone.
I'm not sure what her reactions were/are for the times when I call and the first words are, "I'm ok."
This lady has been through so much, already. And yet, she continues to eagerly tell me that, "I'm a catch." She sees past and/or accepts the faults of me that I can't stand, and then loves me even more.
How do I repay her? How do I show her how much she means to me? How much her support steadies me... when I'm so far away. And how her comfort helps when I'm home.
How to thank her for the beautiful children with whom she has blessed us? I cannot imagine my life without those precious faces in it.
She juggles so much, from screaming children, to misbehaving urine-wielding cats, to navigating the Army healthcare system, to driving in a foreign land to someplace she's never been, to supporting her husband four thousand miles away in a war zone.
You guys reading this... how many of us would sign up to do a job like hers? Not many, I'd wager.
She is my strength.
She is my resolve.
She is the love that keeps me going, and warms me to the core.
Ellicia, today is for you. I wish I could be there in person, but know that I am with you in spirit, and in my Heart.
I look forward to all the anniversaries to come, knowing that with a first like this one... nothing can hold us back... only together.
I love you.
I'm talking about my wife. Today is our first anniversary. Obviously, it's not the way that we want to celebrate it, but as I've told her... the distance apart doesn't diminish my happiness being married to her.
I have to admire her. This is our second marriage for both of us. As I'm sure others who've remarried have thought, "... this time, it's going to be better." I'm not sure if what we have right now is what she was planning on, but I am impressed at how well she hangs in there.
A marriage that results in being more like a single mom than a couple.
More time apart (so far) than together.
My Sweet, who has rarely left the comfortable local area of her hometown has picked up, moved to Germany (middle of nowhere, no less) and embraced living in a foreign land without her husband as a guide.
Switching over to Army life. There's a WHOLE new set of rules to play by. (For all who want to know what's it like to have the government in EVERY part of your life... enlist - get it out of your system.)
Raising three beautiful children... alone.
I'm not sure what her reactions were/are for the times when I call and the first words are, "I'm ok."
This lady has been through so much, already. And yet, she continues to eagerly tell me that, "I'm a catch." She sees past and/or accepts the faults of me that I can't stand, and then loves me even more.
How do I repay her? How do I show her how much she means to me? How much her support steadies me... when I'm so far away. And how her comfort helps when I'm home.
How to thank her for the beautiful children with whom she has blessed us? I cannot imagine my life without those precious faces in it.
She juggles so much, from screaming children, to misbehaving urine-wielding cats, to navigating the Army healthcare system, to driving in a foreign land to someplace she's never been, to supporting her husband four thousand miles away in a war zone.
You guys reading this... how many of us would sign up to do a job like hers? Not many, I'd wager.
She is my strength.
She is my resolve.
She is the love that keeps me going, and warms me to the core.
Ellicia, today is for you. I wish I could be there in person, but know that I am with you in spirit, and in my Heart.
I look forward to all the anniversaries to come, knowing that with a first like this one... nothing can hold us back... only together.
I love you.
16 July 2005
Family News
You're all asking about T...
He had his big appointment on the 12th. Apparently, yes, there was fluid and wax in the ears, but that's easily solvable. Clear that, and he should hear just fine.
Which brings us to today.
Called home.
Talked to E, which was heaven in and of itself. T was busy eating. So, anyways... he's been taking his medicine to help clear the ears, and we thought it'd be a good time to test it. E held the phone to him, and I started talking.
She says that he STOPPED eating, and cut his eyes over to the phone, trying to figure out where the sound came from... And then BIG smiles in his eyes... even laughter. It is our consensus that he heard his Daddy... and that's just awesome news...
Also talked to M. She was having a bad day... spilled water on herself and paintings, and has been falling out of beds, but she talked to me and was INSTANTLY happy. Saying she was talking to "her Daddy", and singing the "Daddy song"... Sigh... miss the kids.
Was a good call...
He had his big appointment on the 12th. Apparently, yes, there was fluid and wax in the ears, but that's easily solvable. Clear that, and he should hear just fine.
Which brings us to today.
Called home.
Talked to E, which was heaven in and of itself. T was busy eating. So, anyways... he's been taking his medicine to help clear the ears, and we thought it'd be a good time to test it. E held the phone to him, and I started talking.
She says that he STOPPED eating, and cut his eyes over to the phone, trying to figure out where the sound came from... And then BIG smiles in his eyes... even laughter. It is our consensus that he heard his Daddy... and that's just awesome news...
Also talked to M. She was having a bad day... spilled water on herself and paintings, and has been falling out of beds, but she talked to me and was INSTANTLY happy. Saying she was talking to "her Daddy", and singing the "Daddy song"... Sigh... miss the kids.
Was a good call...
A Full Day...
Ugh... today has been ROUGH. First, hot. Hot enough to notice. Spent the full day (including what would normally be "office" time) out on the flightline. Seems someone, somewhere, decided that ammunition goes bad if not used early enough. Sort of like bad milk, but worse consequences (helicopters exploding, etc.).
Problem is, they don't know where all the ammunition is of those years. Solution? Visually check the ammunition.
So, that's what we did. Had to go to each bird, download ALL of the ammunition off of it, visually check each round, throw out the bad, and reload with the new.
Hot.
Ammo is metal.
Ammo cans are metal.
Everything is metal.
Metal gets hot, too.
Ugh.
We have 9 birds. Two are in the hangar, no ammo. Leaves 7. 300 rounds each = 2100 rounds to visually check. Wheeeee.
Hot.
(Not to be too graphic, but... an excellent illustration of the heat. We all keep track of each other's water intake. Today, drank 7 liters of water. Never once felt the urge to go to the bathroom. Plenty of sweating, though. Could NOT drink enough...)
Good task, good training though. It's something I don't always get a lot of practice on, but desperately needed... So, good day.
Hot day.
Tomorrow's another day... and very special.... Stay tuned for details.
Problem is, they don't know where all the ammunition is of those years. Solution? Visually check the ammunition.
So, that's what we did. Had to go to each bird, download ALL of the ammunition off of it, visually check each round, throw out the bad, and reload with the new.
Hot.
Ammo is metal.
Ammo cans are metal.
Everything is metal.
Metal gets hot, too.
Ugh.
We have 9 birds. Two are in the hangar, no ammo. Leaves 7. 300 rounds each = 2100 rounds to visually check. Wheeeee.
Hot.
(Not to be too graphic, but... an excellent illustration of the heat. We all keep track of each other's water intake. Today, drank 7 liters of water. Never once felt the urge to go to the bathroom. Plenty of sweating, though. Could NOT drink enough...)
Good task, good training though. It's something I don't always get a lot of practice on, but desperately needed... So, good day.
Hot day.
Tomorrow's another day... and very special.... Stay tuned for details.
15 July 2005
Not much news
Quiet lately. Working. Judging by the flightline, lately, I'd say we're hitting the other guys pretty hard.
Have acclimated to the heat. Yes, it's HOT. But... don't notice it quite so much anymore.
We have cats here. Cute ones. Even have flea collars. How in the world they stand the heat, I don't know. They enjoy hunting... and they like all these tough Soldier guys fawning over them. I often just watch them, enjoying every minute...
BIG cat lover.
Anyway, like I said... no big news...
Have acclimated to the heat. Yes, it's HOT. But... don't notice it quite so much anymore.
We have cats here. Cute ones. Even have flea collars. How in the world they stand the heat, I don't know. They enjoy hunting... and they like all these tough Soldier guys fawning over them. I often just watch them, enjoying every minute...
BIG cat lover.
Anyway, like I said... no big news...
13 July 2005
Shuttle Launch Today...
1551 EDT, 1951Z, 2151 CET...
Watch the Space Shuttle return to flight, resuming humankind's (can't say "mankind" anymore) journeys from Earth.
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html
Watch the Space Shuttle return to flight, resuming humankind's (can't say "mankind" anymore) journeys from Earth.
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html
Because my money's under the mattress already!
I've received a few questions lately regarding our recent rocket attacks. Since they come from several different people, let me try to address them here.
Any more attacks?
Thankfully, none so far. Subject to change at discretion of the enemy.
First you said you were mortared, then rocket. What's the difference?
Good question! These are both examples of indirect fire (direct fire = rifle bullet aimed AT someone in particular; indirect fire = explosive device lobbed in a general direction). Mortars are a variation of artillery fire and the cannon of old. Rockets are an explosive device with a motor attached to the back that fires it towards a target or target area. Both tend to be imprecise (at first, until you get your aim right) and indiscriminate.
Why do we let Afghans on the base?
Sigh... this is a tough one. First, it's basically part of the policy of being welcoming and friendly with our friends, the Afghans. We're here to liberate them from their oppressive government (done), help set up democracy (in-progress), reduce the insurgency (we're working on it), and share the recipe for Mom's Apple Pie (doesn't everyone like Apple Pie?).
We work hand in hand with the ANA (Afghan National Army) and ANP (Afghan National Police - though, don't think of them as the friendly neighborhood cop, it's something different). Also, as we know back home, Americans don't like menial jobs. Same in the Army. In fact, through budget cuts and realignments, many of the basic jobs in the Army are now contracted out. So, port-a-potty cleaning, trash removal, etc. is not done by Soldiers. It's often not even done by our sidekicks, the KBR contract workers. It's locals. Same for transport of supplies. We hire local truckers (they come with their own trucks, and seem to know the local roads or what passes for roads.)
We screen them. We process them. We hope we're right. So far, so good.
Also, keep in mind, we're surrounded by mountains. Anyone with binoculars or a good telescope can see the layout of the base.
One last thing... part of the policy (as I understand it), is that the Afghans are our allies. Therefore, we have to treat them as such.
So, why don't you sleep under your bunk?
Because that's where I store a lot of my gear! Also, I have a comfy mattress and then air mattress...
Ok, seriously... 1) a mattress frame and mattress will provide little to no protection.
B) It's not comfortable, and in the basic shape of things, worse than cowardly... it's afraid. Not good to display fear in a military unit.
3) These things are random. Let's put it another way - how many of you reading this have flown on an airplane in the last four years? Been in a high-rise? Or, more recently, gotten on a subway or bus? ARE YOU CRAZY???? It's dangerous!
Of course you have. And you're going to continue to. Risk management. We all know there's a chance, but... we take it. Otherwise, we wouldn't live our lives. Sleeping under the bunk is one thing, but... I have to eat. I have to go to work. That means walking outside. What then?
This base had not been attacked for over two rotations (years). London hadn't been attacked like that since the IRA, and before then, the Blitz (WW2 for the younger readers). NYC? Last time a plane had flown into a skyscraper there was WW2, and then, it was an accident (B-25 into the Empire State Building).
Life is full of chance. I might win the lottery (haven't yet). I might step on something I shouldn't (so far, so good). My son might have been born deaf (doesn't look that way). Death can rain from the sky (often does, but so far, no showers in my immediate area). One might find love and happiness (found her!). I might choke on a chicken bone at dinner (hope not, but it better be good chicken).
For most of us here on base, the attacks are already long past. Nothing we could do about them, or can do about them. C'est la vie, c'est la mort....
Hope this helps some...
Any more attacks?
Thankfully, none so far. Subject to change at discretion of the enemy.
First you said you were mortared, then rocket. What's the difference?
Good question! These are both examples of indirect fire (direct fire = rifle bullet aimed AT someone in particular; indirect fire = explosive device lobbed in a general direction). Mortars are a variation of artillery fire and the cannon of old. Rockets are an explosive device with a motor attached to the back that fires it towards a target or target area. Both tend to be imprecise (at first, until you get your aim right) and indiscriminate.
Why do we let Afghans on the base?
Sigh... this is a tough one. First, it's basically part of the policy of being welcoming and friendly with our friends, the Afghans. We're here to liberate them from their oppressive government (done), help set up democracy (in-progress), reduce the insurgency (we're working on it), and share the recipe for Mom's Apple Pie (doesn't everyone like Apple Pie?).
We work hand in hand with the ANA (Afghan National Army) and ANP (Afghan National Police - though, don't think of them as the friendly neighborhood cop, it's something different). Also, as we know back home, Americans don't like menial jobs. Same in the Army. In fact, through budget cuts and realignments, many of the basic jobs in the Army are now contracted out. So, port-a-potty cleaning, trash removal, etc. is not done by Soldiers. It's often not even done by our sidekicks, the KBR contract workers. It's locals. Same for transport of supplies. We hire local truckers (they come with their own trucks, and seem to know the local roads or what passes for roads.)
We screen them. We process them. We hope we're right. So far, so good.
Also, keep in mind, we're surrounded by mountains. Anyone with binoculars or a good telescope can see the layout of the base.
One last thing... part of the policy (as I understand it), is that the Afghans are our allies. Therefore, we have to treat them as such.
So, why don't you sleep under your bunk?
Because that's where I store a lot of my gear! Also, I have a comfy mattress and then air mattress...
Ok, seriously... 1) a mattress frame and mattress will provide little to no protection.
B) It's not comfortable, and in the basic shape of things, worse than cowardly... it's afraid. Not good to display fear in a military unit.
3) These things are random. Let's put it another way - how many of you reading this have flown on an airplane in the last four years? Been in a high-rise? Or, more recently, gotten on a subway or bus? ARE YOU CRAZY???? It's dangerous!
Of course you have. And you're going to continue to. Risk management. We all know there's a chance, but... we take it. Otherwise, we wouldn't live our lives. Sleeping under the bunk is one thing, but... I have to eat. I have to go to work. That means walking outside. What then?
This base had not been attacked for over two rotations (years). London hadn't been attacked like that since the IRA, and before then, the Blitz (WW2 for the younger readers). NYC? Last time a plane had flown into a skyscraper there was WW2, and then, it was an accident (B-25 into the Empire State Building).
Life is full of chance. I might win the lottery (haven't yet). I might step on something I shouldn't (so far, so good). My son might have been born deaf (doesn't look that way). Death can rain from the sky (often does, but so far, no showers in my immediate area). One might find love and happiness (found her!). I might choke on a chicken bone at dinner (hope not, but it better be good chicken).
For most of us here on base, the attacks are already long past. Nothing we could do about them, or can do about them. C'est la vie, c'est la mort....
Hope this helps some...
12 July 2005
Mail Slowdown
We received word today that there's not going to be any mail for awhile... runways are being worked on, so the bigger jets (like our favorite, the DHL bird) can't come in right now...
So, keep those e-mails coming folks, and it certainly doesn't mean to stop writing or sending packages to your favorite Soldiers... they'll just get it when the birds come back (sort of like Capistrano, but... not quite as idyllic.)
11 July 2005
Details...
Well, here are some details. It was actually 3 rounds of rocket attacks (not mortars).
1 landed about 75 yards from my barracks building.
1 landed in the Dutch compound.
1 landed a "short distance" from our fuel/ammo dump.
They had excellent targeting. As it's said, they've got us "zeroed" and "ranged".
So, what now?
Well, we expect more throughout the week. Not much that we can do about it. Hard to catch them.
And, you can't do anything about a rocket attack. So, just hope and pray you're lucky.
We had two civilians injured. One caught shrapnel in the leg, the other in the throat. Hope they make it...
Hoping for a peaceful night... I have the next TWO days off, in a row. Like a weekend... whatever will I do???
1 landed about 75 yards from my barracks building.
1 landed in the Dutch compound.
1 landed a "short distance" from our fuel/ammo dump.
They had excellent targeting. As it's said, they've got us "zeroed" and "ranged".
So, what now?
Well, we expect more throughout the week. Not much that we can do about it. Hard to catch them.
And, you can't do anything about a rocket attack. So, just hope and pray you're lucky.
We had two civilians injured. One caught shrapnel in the leg, the other in the throat. Hope they make it...
Hoping for a peaceful night... I have the next TWO days off, in a row. Like a weekend... whatever will I do???
10 July 2005
Mortared!
We were fast asleep today when all of a sudden I heard AND felt (nearly simultaneously - your physics folks can translate what that means) a HUGE Kar-whump. MORTAR!!!! It shook the building, and could hear stuff hit the roof. I quickly decided to stay put for the moment... maybe it was just one.
I waited...
No further noise.
A minute passed.
2 minutes.
After the third, and I started to relax, the base sirens went off. I jumped up, shouted to my (still asleep) roommates, "to the Bunkers! Let's Go, let's go!" Cleared the room, and off we went.
Sat there for another hour and a half, crammed in with everyone else. Lots of bad jokes, nervous talking, wondering what stupid rules this would result in...
But we all agreed, This was a close one.
Curious where it did hit.
Glad it wasn't closer.
War hit home.
Everyone here is ok, as far as I know...
It's going to be a long, long day...
More later.
From KAF...
me.
I waited...
No further noise.
A minute passed.
2 minutes.
After the third, and I started to relax, the base sirens went off. I jumped up, shouted to my (still asleep) roommates, "to the Bunkers! Let's Go, let's go!" Cleared the room, and off we went.
Sat there for another hour and a half, crammed in with everyone else. Lots of bad jokes, nervous talking, wondering what stupid rules this would result in...
But we all agreed, This was a close one.
Curious where it did hit.
Glad it wasn't closer.
War hit home.
Everyone here is ok, as far as I know...
It's going to be a long, long day...
More later.
From KAF...
me.
04 July 2005
Ready to PARTY!
M getting ready for the 4th of July carnival on post at home... Look at her! She looks so old... and don't think Daddy didn't notice the polish on her toesies. She is SO ADORABLE... Miss her...
03 July 2005
My first critical comment
Scroll down and find the Post I made on "Nancy Pelosi"... then click to read the comments.
(I'll pass on responding at this time, but anyone else may feel free to.)
(I'll pass on responding at this time, but anyone else may feel free to.)
Interesting couple of days
I tried to post yesterday, but... was SO tired, I (and my roommates) all fell asleep while we were doing our various activities. We woke up and the lights were still on, etc.
Anyway, yesterday, as I was going in to work, I looked (as I tend to, being an aviation nut) across the flight line. It was noticeably empty. Wow, guess we're up to something out there today, I thought to myself.
Apparently so. For the duration of the morning, myself and the few worker-bees left in the shop got to tend to the part of our job where we're actually handling the ammo. We go out to the pads, and load the birds. We must have loaded six or so birds, easily, and they all kept going out for more. Some got loaded twice. Lots of rounds going downrange.
Turns out that we'd found a major cluster of Taliban/al-Qaeda, and the Chinooks dropped off forces at the top of the mountain, coming down, driving them towards the waiting Apaches. Busy, busy day. Successful. Birds fought hard. Kept coming back with various parts breaking, but the pilots saying, "Load me up, got to go back... we'll fix it later."
And we did. There was one bird that day that came back and had ammunition feed troubles. Well, that is just a nightmare of a job as we have to take a lot out to get to the feed chutes inside. Remove fuel tanks, amongst other things. Anyways, we did all that, fixed our problem... and then, of course, have to make sure it works. We loaded dummy rounds in, made sure they fed, and then...
I got to fire the gun. Whoa! It is SO much fun. Can only imagine what it's like in flight. The whole bird moves when it fires. YAY!!!!!!!! Must do that again. Made the 7 hours of repair effort worth it.
In other news, getting a new roommate. Will make it a 4 man room. :( oh well, still not bad living conditions.
Our showers are working fully (we lost them after one day, but is fixed.) Is such an incredible shower. We're ALL raving about it. Was almost late to work one day it felt so good. Really helps after a hard day.
Spent all day today in the office. Basically babysitting it while the command staff took a day off. Would have been a good day for aircraft work. Was only 115. Nice and cool. We didn't even sweat.
Picked up a new Soldier. She was complaining how hot it was. All I (and others) could do was just hand her water and warn her... it gets worse.
Anyway, yesterday, as I was going in to work, I looked (as I tend to, being an aviation nut) across the flight line. It was noticeably empty. Wow, guess we're up to something out there today, I thought to myself.
Apparently so. For the duration of the morning, myself and the few worker-bees left in the shop got to tend to the part of our job where we're actually handling the ammo. We go out to the pads, and load the birds. We must have loaded six or so birds, easily, and they all kept going out for more. Some got loaded twice. Lots of rounds going downrange.
Turns out that we'd found a major cluster of Taliban/al-Qaeda, and the Chinooks dropped off forces at the top of the mountain, coming down, driving them towards the waiting Apaches. Busy, busy day. Successful. Birds fought hard. Kept coming back with various parts breaking, but the pilots saying, "Load me up, got to go back... we'll fix it later."
And we did. There was one bird that day that came back and had ammunition feed troubles. Well, that is just a nightmare of a job as we have to take a lot out to get to the feed chutes inside. Remove fuel tanks, amongst other things. Anyways, we did all that, fixed our problem... and then, of course, have to make sure it works. We loaded dummy rounds in, made sure they fed, and then...
I got to fire the gun. Whoa! It is SO much fun. Can only imagine what it's like in flight. The whole bird moves when it fires. YAY!!!!!!!! Must do that again. Made the 7 hours of repair effort worth it.
In other news, getting a new roommate. Will make it a 4 man room. :( oh well, still not bad living conditions.
Our showers are working fully (we lost them after one day, but is fixed.) Is such an incredible shower. We're ALL raving about it. Was almost late to work one day it felt so good. Really helps after a hard day.
Spent all day today in the office. Basically babysitting it while the command staff took a day off. Would have been a good day for aircraft work. Was only 115. Nice and cool. We didn't even sweat.
Picked up a new Soldier. She was complaining how hot it was. All I (and others) could do was just hand her water and warn her... it gets worse.
More on Durbin
First, thanks for the notes of support and that y'all don't agree with what Rep. Durbin said. I thought I'd include a link to a wonder Op-Ed piece that helps highlight just how off-base he is. You can find it here.
01 July 2005
Cool Day
Well, this was a pleasant surprise. Went to work today and it was nice and cool. But, it's been that way before and I was no fool. I knew it'd get hot.
Guess what? It didn't (so to speak). Even by 0700Z, it was still felt a good 30 degrees cooler than usual. Never did get to check a thermometer. Later on, it was sweltering again, but it was such a nice change.
Weather forecast says we're getting thunderstorms. Right. With what rain?
Big day in the barracks. Our plumbing is now connected, so no more hiking. Toilets and high-pressure, hot-weather showers are just down the hall. (Now, any good military person also knows the immediate downside... cleaning details. Oh well.)
Currently sitting outside, under the stars, in my lounge chair... enjoying the breeze, and typing all this in.
It's now July. June went by FAST. Let's hope the rest do, too.
Here's a question... I'm curious where some of you heard about or found this blog from? I'm noticing more and more visitors, and just surprised and frankly, kind of flattered that that many people are checking in...
Guess what? It didn't (so to speak). Even by 0700Z, it was still felt a good 30 degrees cooler than usual. Never did get to check a thermometer. Later on, it was sweltering again, but it was such a nice change.
Weather forecast says we're getting thunderstorms. Right. With what rain?
Big day in the barracks. Our plumbing is now connected, so no more hiking. Toilets and high-pressure, hot-weather showers are just down the hall. (Now, any good military person also knows the immediate downside... cleaning details. Oh well.)
Currently sitting outside, under the stars, in my lounge chair... enjoying the breeze, and typing all this in.
It's now July. June went by FAST. Let's hope the rest do, too.
Here's a question... I'm curious where some of you heard about or found this blog from? I'm noticing more and more visitors, and just surprised and frankly, kind of flattered that that many people are checking in...
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