4 Nov 09-Another update

First off I just wanted to thank my wife Susan for putting up with me all these years. On 24 Oct 09 we celebrated 22 years of marriage. Who would have ever thought that she could have put up with me for this long! I know most of you are probably thinking she deserves sainthood! All kidding aside she has given so much to me through the years. Knowing that she is there waiting for me when I get home is one of the bright spots in an otherwise gray world.

Our time here seems to be picking up speed and the end of the deployment is on the horizon. It’s hard to believe 9 months down, and three to go. We have to keep up the momentum and continue to look out for each other. My hope is that Jacki and I will be coming home together. What a change in environment it will be for us. Temperatures here will probably be in the 90’s and back home in February who knows. I guess we (Susan and I) will have to stay in bed under the covers until I transition back to a colder climate. I’m willing to make that commitment now if that’s what it’s going to take. Susan, your thoughts please?

There is a sign out posted out in the front entrance of our building that reads 21 more days to get your Christmas presents home in time for the holidays. The holidays are coming so fast although I’m sure Target (Susan notice how I didn’t say Walmart) has had their Christmas decorations up for some time already. For some it will be the first time away from home for the holidays, the first Christmas as a couple, or just maybe the first Christmas of a new born child. Our goal here has to be to take care of each other as Red Green would say “Were all in this together! During the upcoming months our families will be experiencing the same emotions as well I’m sure. My family plans hopefully will be to celebrate Christmas as a family after our return.

I also wanted to announce that the Crotteau family’s 16^th or 17^th (?) annual New Year’s Eve bon fire will be postponed until two or three weekends after our return. Hopefully our family, friends, and extended family will still grace us with their presence!

I wanted to share one of those “funny when it happens to someone else story” type stories with you The last time I was at FOB (Forward Operating Base) Gary Owen I forgot to share a story with you. It was later at night just before bed and I thought to myself “Self you better go to the bathroom or you’re going to have to get up in the middle of the night”. Had I been younger I might have ignored the voices, but being just a little wiser I knew better.

I was still dressed in my uniform and off I went in search of a porta-potty. Door number one wasn’t right, door number two was bent, and door number three was where I would take my pee! In the dark of the night I started to go when I heard the sound of water hitting the floor. I whipped out my light and what did I see, the toes of my boots were splattered with pee. The pipe that went from the urinal to the toilet was missing. I finished my business in the actual toilet and thought to myself “Self, can life get any better?” I learned another life lesson that night. If memory serves me this should be life lesson 989,463: Always check and see if the drain pipe is hooked to the urinal in all porta-potties.

Last Saturday I was scheduled to fly down to Bucca near the Kuwait border. As I waited for my helicopter flight out, the wind speed increased. I knew that if the helicopters were not already in flight that we would not be leaving anytime soon. I was right the flight was postponed, after several hours of waiting the status changed to “Canceled”. It was time for plan B which involved ground transport to Bucca. Let me tell you just over an hour drive strapped onto a seat similar to a bleacher, ratcheted in place by a five point safety harness is someone’s idea of fun, it sure wasn’t mine! Just to give you an idea the roads here are similar to Minnesota as the frost comes out of the ground. Wait a minute I’m getting a head of myself here.

Backing up just a little we meet up over at the MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) staging area for our mandatory convoy safety briefing followed by some refreshing comments about what to do in the event of a roll over. Did I mention that just standing by one of these big rigs is a little intimidating? Once the brief was over we strapped ourselves in, became locked in, listened as the steps retracted and we were off. It didn’t take long for my foot to fall asleep shortly after the rest of me gave up and followed suit. 10 seconds later the first pot hole jarred me awake. No sleep for the wicked I thought. Sitting in one of these trucks is very similar to having two seats in a car facing each other. You and the guy sitting across from you try to play “Twister” without a board trying to share a too small place filled with combat boots.

Looking out the window it didn’t take long to find out garbage cans were in short supply as well as garbage bags. Litter blew across the road like tumble weeds and the ditches were covered with everything from blown tires, wrecked car frames, and enough garbage to keep an Adopt our Highway crew busy for a life time. The homes that were visible appeared to be from the back roads in Tennessee. Not much to look at and nothing to paint. I have to give them credit though they were trying to scratch out an existence and growing some sort of vegetation, not sure what. I can’t imagine living like they do and what makes them want to get up in the morning? This would make a great setting for a reality show.

Not more than a hour and a half later we were at beautiful Bucca. After clearing our weapons we were allowed on the base. Did I mention that I dropped my magazine full of ammo into the only wet spot with in a fifty mile radius? At one time Bucca was the home to around 20,000 prisoners. I would imagine everything from prisoners of war, to time hardened criminals. I can only imagine how many soldiers and contractors were there to manage that many prisoners.

My job was to identify property needed for bases across lower Iraq and to see what I could find to possibly support the upcoming elections. Unfortunately for me the garage sale had a presale and selected items were already out of stock. You know take a rain check in case we find one in the back?

It didn’t matter I assisted the Battalion Supply Sergeant with his ongoing issues and worked on several tasks of my own to help with the responsible drawdown. The unit there was also National Guard from the state of Wisconsin. It was so refreshing to deal with them, like us they wanted to leave the place better for the next guy.

They built a water tower of sorts out of connex container stacked up in order to deliver water outside of the wire to the locals in town. Bucca had a functioning water plant that at one time couldn’t keep up with the demand of the base and now they had too much. It wasn’t pretty by any means and would never be displayed in some architecture digest magazine. But I had to give them credit instead of spending Uncle Sam’s money they used Uncle Sam’s recyclables instead. 95% of the materials used were recycled. I guess it just goes to show that where there is a will there is a way.

Three times while I was there I heard rain on my roof, by the time I flung my door open and jumped outside it was over. The guys there said it had rained hard the week before.

Three days on the ground and we were headed back by helicopter! Once again the weather turned bad and we were destined to be with the MRAPS again. All I can say is thank god I don’t have hemorrhoids as I climbed back in and strapped myself in. Wearing my body armor and sweating as the air conditioner struggled to cool it down we were off headed back. It was darker this time as I watched the fires from the burn off vales of the oil fields in the horizon. The trip seemed longer and I was glad when we approached the gate at Basra. Home sweet home I thought sadly to myself.

Getting up Tuesday to go back to the office wasn’t easy. I kind of like the road and to be honest I like helping the units. It’s amazing the resources available back at the office to help the units with their problems.

Had dinner or maybe it was called supper with my nice Jessica. It was nice seeing her and hearing of her family back home. I guess I am blessed by having not only my daughter here; I have my niece here also. The next morning I was rather surprised when I saw Don Shelby walk into our mess hall. It was so refreshing to see someone from home! Knowing he was here to share our story with those of you back home was even more excitement for us. In front of my friends I clapped my hands together to make my friends laugh. I told those at the table that if I had my picture taken with Don I was guaranteed to get some when I got home. Imagine my surprise when he actually sat down at our table. He was introduced to us by my longtime friend MSG Richard Kemp. After some small talk and finding out that he served his country in his early years the conversation at the table reminded me of home. But I have to share this with you. He made eye contact with me and said

Wait for it

Wait for it

He said in his best news caster voice “Could you please pass me the salt”? You know me I was quick to recover and I handed him one of those little salt packets out of the bowl on the table. I will never forget that moment!

The rest of my day was OK it’s hard to believe something better might be waiting for me. It didn’t take long to discover it was all downhill after breakfast. I spent the early part of my day typing my trip report, and getting caught up on my Emails. After lunch it was off to the dentist. The week before I had my chipped tooth fixed by the Army dentist. While at my appointment I discovered that they have someone on staff that cleans teeth. I had set up my appointment earlier in the week and showed up with minutes to spare. The young specialist and the dentist that repaired my tooth the week prior chatted for a while before she started. After using her instruments to scrape my teeth I happened to ask her how long she has been doing this. Her casual reply was about a month. After she was done she said that I was doing a great job and that my teeth were well maintained. I laughed and said in your experience right?

That reminds me of a joke one of the troops here from Tennessee told me. Do you know how Tennessee can prove they didn’t invent the tooth brush? If they had it would have been called a teeth brush.

That’s all for now in a few days I will be celebrating thirty years of serving my country. It’s hard to believe that thirty years went by so quickly. Looking back I have great memories, made some great friends, learned from some amazing people, and have stories of a lifetime to tell my grand children.

In the months ahead please keep our soldiers serving in your prayers! If you know someone whose spouse is serving call them and tell them your there for them if they need you. To us over here that’s all we ask is don’t forget us and our familes throughout the upcoming holiday season.

That is all,

Dave

18 Oct 09 - Greetings

I've been on the road the past two weeks visiting and inspecting units. Most of my travels have been by helicopter whether it is a Blackhawk or the much older age defying Chinook. Sorry about how long this blog posting is. I suggest you go to the bathroom, grab a beer and settle in for my update!


Journal entry 5 Oct 09: Today we flew by Blackhawk to base Hunter and did an inspection. The guys there were glad to have us and were very accommodating. Talk about being a long ways from the flag pole. Note to self next time soldiers complain about how rough they have it at Basra they need to come here. Food is prepared inside of Mobile Kitchen Trailer (MKT’s) carried across the way to be eaten inside of the newly built plywood palace. Two hot meals a day guaranteed and warm water in the showers if you’re lucky. Notice I didn’t mention indoor plumbing? Yep it’s all about porta-potties and being smart enough to use the ones located in the shade. I’ll be waiting until Adder before I do my business guaranteed!


Journal entry 6 Oct 09: We finished up our inspection and left later in the night for Adder on a Chinook helicopter. While we were waiting on the landing pad at Hunter the Chinook came in without lights on and was silhouetted against the night sky, it was awesome. The air movement from the propellers sent some stumbling from the air and some baggage was sent rolling by the air turbulence. Let me just say it’s weird flying aboard a helicopter without any lights on. It’s totally tactical and the pilots and door gunners use night vision goggles to see. It was only 45 minutes at best but in a Chinook you ride inside without the luxury of being able to look out. Just picture riding in the trunk of your car where you got in at one place and came out somewhere else.

Journal entry 7 Oct 09: Thank god it was a light day. I'm pretty sure I needed it after flying during the previous night. It wasn’t just the walk from the airport to billeting and then finally to our rooms all while wearing your body armor, helmet and carrying your duffel bag. I had another personal mission while I was there; I wanted to find the memorial wall with my friend Mikes name on it. I was told it was there so I looked far and wide. It took me a while but I finally found it. Seeing his name there before me on the wall was sad. The wall was dedicated to all the men and women that had died in Iraq that called Adder their home. This was the place where Mike had died serving his country. My emotions were mixed and I was glad that I could read his name and remembered the man that had been my friend. Mike was the soldier that I wanted to be like, he was sharp, knowledgeable, and believed that we could make a difference. His passion was like the common cold, you caught it and you believed. He made you want to do the right thing by the soldier and for all. He truly was the leader whether he was in the back of the room or in front. Most of us remember the man and his slight smile. It was sometimes very frustrating when after we came to a solution he would look at us, smile knowingly and offer his advice. Leave it to Mike to make us change always for the better.


But wait a minute out of the corner of my eye I spotted the names of other soldiers I knew that had fallen. My eyes misted over as I read the name of SGT Brent Koch who I had the honor of being both the Casualty Notification Officer as well as the follow on duties of the Casualty Assistance Officer. I had forgotten that he served here as well. I wondered how his family; as well as the other families of those on the wall was doing. More importantly how their lives had changed since the funeral of their loved ones. I said a mental prayer as my thoughts went to the next name I recognized.


SGT Joshua Schmit, his father was a soldier that I had served proudly with back home. If his son was half the man that his father had been he would be greatly missed by all that knew him.
It was very sad for me to face the wall and know that some gave all, and others gave everything to serve in this land far from home. I should say I was very honored as well as humbled to be here in the presence of those that had given so much of themselves so others could know what it was to live free. To be here in this place that they gave their lives was very hard. So many had died but their memories would live on in all of us forever!


Journal entry 8 Oct 09: The inspection we did, started with the usual in brief, followed by the inspection, and concluded with the results being briefed later that night to the Battalion Commander. I know it sounds weird but I could feel the presence of more that those with us physically in the room.


Journal entry 9 Oct 09: Friday we returned back to Basra until our flight out the following Monday. It was my birthday and my daughter was on pass, and my immediate family was in a land far from here. When I got to my desk to write my reports I found the birthday cards and present from friends and family. You will never believe this Jacki got me the 20th anniversary edition of Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader. How could she have known? Another birthday, another year older, celebrated in a place far from home. Oh well it’s nice knowing that tomorrow morning I will be in the next Army age group for Physical Fitness. Another minute or two to run, a few less push ups, and yes five less sit ups does life get any better? This kind of motivation makes me want to go do my work out right now. (Not)


Journal entry 10-11 Oct 09: This weekend will be spent catching up on my E mails, messages to my family, and typing up the previous week’s reports. Not to mention the three Army meals of the day whoopee! I’ve died and gone to heaven! So many E Mails, so many responses required what should I do? Yep you guessed it take part of the day on Sunday to go to church and later go to the Bazaar. Who would have guessed that LTC Mary Muskrat and SSG Saundra Urbacke would want to each ride a camel? I was standing in the front, their cameras at ready watching their ride (Pictures to follow). Each of them I’m sure had different expectations. Saundra rode horses and thought it wouldn’t be so bad. What it actually looked like was that scene from the Urban Cowboy where people were riding the mechanical bull. When the camel got up with Saundra on board Saundra went forward, then snapped back wards as the camel got awkwardly to his feet. I was thinking to myself it was a long ways up to where she sat but a lot farther down. Wait a minute! No need to worry this was the very same Camel that had given Jacki a love nip the week before.


Mary on the other hand benefited from Saundra’s ride before her. Then again the look on her face as the camel rose to his full height was priceless. You could learn a lot from Mary, she was out for 17 years when she came back in to deploy with us. She is the kind of person who when given lemons makes lemonade. She steps up to the plate time and again with such enthusiasm it’s almost contagious. While walking with her she knows just about everyone’s name, if she doesn’t I’m sure she will soon.


Journal entry 12 Oct 09: I woke up not liking Willy Nelson very much. I kept thinking of that song on the road again! Another day, another adventure awaits. I was off to Gary Owen (Near the Iran border) for my last inspection for a while. Looking out the window of the helicopter at the landscape below took me mentally back to what must have been the start of the war. You could see the emplacements of where the soldiers had dug in and could visualize the war from above. Here it was years later and still the sites were visible. I was thinking to myself that was where the tanks were; over there the artillery; and that below me was definitely where the infantry must have waited for who knows how long. The sands of time hadn’t erased it yet, but in another few years the physical remains would be erased. However the damage done by war would be forever carried in their hearts. When our helicopter finally got there after going to Bucca, Hunter and finally Gary Owen my first thought was not good. I thought to myself Self “Self Hunter was bad but this place ranks right up there with voluntarily going to the dentist”.


Journal entry 13 Oct 09: Waking up I wouldn’t have minded Willy Nelson to give me a hand getting off that lovely cot. Note to self “Self, there should be two sizes of cots one size for those young kids wet behind the ears, the other size for us mature figured men over 5’10”. I’m now more than convinced that Soldiers living at Basra have it great. I again made a mental note to wait until running water and porcelain to do whatever business I may have. I also knew my Bathroom reader would be waiting for me as well as the now much appreciated phone booth sized bathroom stall complete with running water. The next day was the inspection the rest of today was spent becoming familiar with the surroundings and preparing for the inspection.


Journal entry 14 Oct 09: Another inspection that left me impressed with my guard unit back home at Basra. I guess I thought that the active duty guys would have this down pat. I was wrong most of the units did fairly well but a few need much improvement. I need to write this one up in such a way that their higher headquarters steps up to the plate and helps these guys. The potential is there but the emphasis on Logistics seems to be lacking. It’s never about the logistics of things until it’s too late. Played some Cribbage with Chuck Madden and taught him a lesson about winning and losing. (I have pictures of my victory over Chuck if you’re interested).


Journal entry 15 Oct 09: Woke up very early and the labor pains were five minutes apart. For a brief moment I thought I might actually give birth to a turtle if you know what I mean? There was no waiting for the porcelain it was now or never. Between the labor pains I grabbed my flashlight; the roll of hoarded toilet paper and I was off. There they were waiting for me Jimmy’s Johnnies all in a line. I felt like little red riding hood as I opened door one (no lock); door two (no toilet seat); Door three seemed to be just right, the perfect place to give birth. I’m not sure if I screamed or not but I almost passed out. Thank god it was over and I could return to my cot. I thought about waking up my travel companions but deep down inside I knew better.


All kidding aside I knew that soon I would be back to Basra, my mattress on my man size bed, my family and my friends. Life at Basra was living the life that others only dreamed of.


I have to add I like getting out and working with the troops. Even though they are getting inspected doesn't mean that you can't assist them and follow up on issues with their higher headquarters that they might have.

Man I miss home I just have to tell myself that each day down is one step closer to coming home. Unfortunately the holidays are rapidly approaching. During my stay in Adder while traveling on the base bus system the radio announcer said that if you wanted to get cards or packages home for Christmas you have until 20 November to do it. Man talk about rushing a guy!

That is all,


Dave

27 Sep 09 – Sweet dreams

To all those reading our blog I just wanted to bring you all up to date on my life. I spent some time contemplating the best way to accomplish this and struggled with the right format. I finally said to myself “self, just put it down on paper”. My advice to you now is to get up from your computer, go to the bathroom, grab a snack and settle in for a long read.

Dear Diary (Sounded less than manly) Journal entry 4 Sep 09: I’m nervous in anticipation of what time I will fly out tomorrow. Will my flight be at some ungodly hour of the morning? Will the dust storms kick up suddenly to interfere with my flight? Why do I have to wait until after 2100 hours (9:00PM) to hear my flight departure time for the next day? My inner voice wants to cry out loud “Come on people work with me, my bag is already packed”. Items in my bag were 2 sets of socks, T- shirts, underwear, PT Clothes, running shoes, shower shoes, personal hygiene items, sheets, and a blanket. Then you have to add in the soldier support items, such as headphones, reading material, and munchies. Needless to say my bag was full; some might even say it was pushing the limits of carry on. Most of these items were due to unforeseen layovers in Kuwait while you were waiting for your flight home. Some survivors (they wear T-shirts that say been there, done that) of Kuwait have been stranded for as long as 5 days. Finally just prior to 2100 I had confirmation (not holding my breath) that I was leaving for Kuwait the next day.

Journal entry 5 Sep 09: Morning came earlier than usual for some reason. My mind was doing cart wheels, and my stomach was knotted (looking back it might have been the chicken) as thoughts of seeing my wife and family for the first time in seven months filled my head. In fact Susan and I even talked to each other about this many times, but my mind was still wondering. My flight wasn’t until mid day but I was up earlier than normal so I went into the office. Those of you that know me well know that I’m not the best guy to have with idle time on my hands. Idle time plus my mind usually equals up to me getting into trouble for something I did, or something I failed to do. Arrival time at the Basra terminal was getting close I hastily added my out of office replies, removed my auto forward, kicked the cat, said a quick good bye and headed out the door. All my fears of late departure, or sandstorms quickly vanished as we boarded the military transport plane that would shuttle us to Kuwait. Man I was excited but I didn’t want to get my hopes up. Rumors of soldiers being delayed in Kuwait for days before departure danced in my head. Touchdown and then we were told our flight out wasn’t tell the next day. Thinking to myself I said “Self, it’s going to be OK, you’re one step closer to being home”. That night in the tent that I was assigned it was like Grand Central station. The tent flap should have been a revolving door the way people went in and out of there. Don’t worry about turning on the lights I thought to myself on more than one occasion I was awake anyhow anticipating the possible flight the next day weather permitting.

Journal entry 6 Sep 09: Man the words “report for roll call outside in the departure area” was music to my ears. It didn’t matter that once we were accounted for that we were confined to the area until departure time. What mattered is that the flight is on and baby I was coming home to the good old USA! As my 2 and a half year old grand baby says “I was so cited”! I can’t tell you exactly how long the flight lasted with all the time zone changes, and the layover (Math was never my strong suit). What I can say is we left Kuwait Sunday and arrived back in the good old USA early Monday.

Journal entry 7 Sep 09: Keep in mind we are eight hours ahead so at one point I may have went back to yesterday during my flight? (You never know it might have happened). No matter what I was glad when the wheels of the freedom flight finally touched down. It was very emotional for me and my fellow travelers when the stewardess announced over the intercom prior to landing that on behalf of the flight crew they wanted to thank the men and women of the armed forces for serving our country. By this time I was on emotional overload. So many young men and women had made this journey before me; I just hoped that someone somewhere along the way took a moment to thank them for their service. I for one will make it my mission to thank those wearing the uniform for their service in the years ahead. We were told prior to our departure for home that we could reschedule our flights to our final destination when we landed in Atlanta. Trust me I hauled butt down the concourse and stood patiently in line to hear the words your flight time is, wait a minute did she just tell me I would be on standby in hopes that a seat would open on the next available flight? Yep my ears hadn’t failed. In the bathroom there were many of us in different stages of undress as we tried to shave and freshen up just a little. I wonder what the civilians must have thought as they entered the men’s room. Trust me it wasn’t long before I was standing tall in line and found myself to be 5^th on the waiting list. My hopes were high as the ticket agent announced once twice and then a third time that final boarding was taking place. Suddenly out of the corner of my eye I spotted and older couple being assisted to the flight waiting area on a golf cart. Then another couple came running up, and another, man my mind was going a mile a minute. Did I mention that not all my thoughts were nice? The more late arrivals meant that some soldiers weren’t going to make the final cut. As luck would have it they got seven of us on an already full flight. I suspect that air plane crews dead heading back gave up their seats in order for us to get home. I had called Susan by this time and told her if you don’t hear from me in the next thirty minutes plan to pick me up at the airport.

The flight seemed like it took forever and my mind wandered back and forth from our last good bye in February; wondering if my grand baby would remember me; my daughter that I left in Iraq; to my kids that I would be seeing soon. I replayed these and many other thoughts (need to keep it clean) as I looked out the window at the green far below. I knew one thing for sure I was running on empty and I was headed home to my life I left behind. Again the crew thanked us for our service; then again maybe not, one thing was sure when the door opened I was home. From the plane to the baggage pickup where I had arranged to meet my wife was a blur. It was as if time stood still when I ran down the escalator and through the doors to the baggage pick up. I spied her there through the crowd waiting for me. One of us had aged some the other was as pretty as the day I married her. I’m pretty sure we were both misty eyed and those around us disappeared, it was just me and Susan there for a brief instance. Looking into her eyes I knew then that whatever thoughts I may have had of it being awkward at first had quickly vanished. I was complete. I took her hand and walked out to the car for our trip home. My eyes went from looking at nature’s beauty outside the window, to the beauty by my side. Others passing us in traffic may have thought I looked like a puppy dog looking out the window. They may have been right I know if I was a dog my tail would have been thumping.

After the commute home my wife went in the house for something or other. When she returned I had my combat boots and socks off standing barefooted in the grass. Oh what a great feeling it was! I could tell a few more details about the first day home but………..

Journal entry 8 Sep 09: What a great feeling waking up in your own bed with your wife by your side. What a great feeling it was if only my wife’s dog would go outside for a while? Fast forward it’s now latter in the morning and we were off to the Zoo with my grand baby. She did remember me, in fact she crashed and burned in her haste to run and see me! Having my grandbaby holding one hand and my wife holding the other I had to ask myself could life get any better? Lions, tigers, monkeys, and Sparky the dolphin we seen it all. In fact the monkeys gave my grand baby special attention and scared her with their sudden interest.

Journal entry 9 Sep 09 though 13 Sep 09: Were off to the cabin for family activities. Did I mention that by this time I’ve seen Darcie and Josh already? Wow seeing your kids after so long was awesome. Josh had changed so much since I last saw him. He was fresh back from basic training at Ft Jackson SC. He was looking good after shedding 20 plus pounds and was standing maybe just a little taller. Darcie had moved back to Minnesota from Chicago and was looking good as well. Matt met us up north seeing as though he now lives in the Alexandria area. He moved there to start his life over after his girlfriend and him decided to go their separate ways. It was great seeing him as well and watching first hand his interaction with his baby.

So much had changed but the atmosphere at the cabin still is about family, friends and relaxation. So much to do and no plan to do anything more than enjoy our time together. I wanted to make my breakfast the next morning so the smell of sizzling bacon, sautéed onions, and golden brown hash browns soon filled the air. Did I mention that later my mother in law “Harry” felt it necessary to beat me at cribbage? I will admit I was weak and tired after making breakfast, and to be honest a little embarrassed when she beat me more than once? Now I hear that her confidence is still high and she is heading off to Vegas in hopes of making it rich. Just maybe my loss gave her the encouragement that she needed.

We had fires at night and talked of life, love and the pursuit of happiness. Of course we had SMORES with the marshmallows slow cooked by Susan. The stars were bright; the noises of the night were playing a soothing melody. Wow I had to almost pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

One of the nights I woke to feeling warm and wet all over. (Get your minds out of the gutter). My grand baby surprised me by giving me a shower. Had I been laying on my stomach I might have drowned? She has to have a huge bladder for such a little girl

Journal entry 14 Sep 09: Wife has to work today what should I do with my time? I put zed around the garage, shop, and the yard. I cleaned the wife’s garage, moved the trash cans to the curb, tilled the garden, and washed my uniform for the trip back to Iraq. I even trimmed the branches in the front yard and hauled off two large trailer loads of brush. Again I asked myself could it get any better.

Journal entry 15 Sep 09: This is the day that we take our grandbaby in to get her caught up on all her shots. We woke up with Aubrey laying between us, as well as Susan’s dog. She was such a big girl right up tell she got stuck in the arm. My heart broke as she started to cry. What could I do to help her though this. When it was all over the nurse gave her some really cool band aids, and even better stickers (note to self the army should consider the sticker program). That night our neighbor and neighborette had us over for dinner. It was so nice seeing them we have been neighbors for almost 18 years and raised our kids together.

Journal entry 16 Sep 09: Another day in paradise! I went four wheeling with my friends and my boy Josh. Words can’t describe the feeling of taking off riding with you buds! What a feeling of freedom flying along with the wind blowing through your hair. Yes smarty pants (NB) the wind blows threw it even though it’s short. 120 miles, 5-10 serious mud holes, trucker style breakfast, burgers with the boys, and Dairy Queen priceless. At one point after I jousted with Josh over a mud hole we were both covered head to toe in mud and laughing together. Those there that day would admit the wave that hit Josh was much bigger than the ripple he had sent my way. What more could a man ask for? The only thing that could make it better was knowing my wife was waiting for me (get your mind out of the gutter) when I got home.

Journal entry 17 Sep 09: Sometimes I’m not the best brother but I was headed to Cloquet and hadn’t called my family yet. A 2 1/2 hour drive seemed to be enough notice. My time was going so fast at this point. We took Josh to the credit union in my hometown to open a savings account in hopes of getting a car loan latter. Went to our world renowned burger joint “Gordys Hi Hat” and had the best burger so far. Gordy has been run by the same couple since 1960, one of the couple is always there working. I think the best way I could explain the food there is that your mouth has an orgasm while eating the food. We then took Josh to the casino for his very first time so he could understand what it means to piss your money away. Susan left with more than she went in there with, me and Josh well that’s a different story. The next thing we knew is it was off to see my sister and her husband at their home before we went to supper later that night at the Chinese restaurant. It was great seeing them. Later at the restaurant we saw my brother Larry and his wife Cindy, my Sister Sue and her husband Richard and their kids and grandbabies. The visit may not have been as long as some may have wanted but I was OK with it all. We were doing the one thing that we wanted to stay away from and that was travel all the time. Don’t worry were off to the cabin the next day.

Journal entry 18 Sep 09 – 20 Sep 09: Another weekend at our cabin. Early morning walks hand in hand to the lake. Running around on my four wheeler and then having my buddy Bob make us supper complete with steaks grilled to order that were cut to size at the local butcher shop. I’ve said it before and I will say it again. Life isn’t about what you get out of life. It’s more about what you put into it. My family has some of the best friends in the world and for that I’m thankful. If great friends were a true measure of wealth, than I’m a very wealthy man. Time to leave is just around the corner and Sunday night we are having supper with Darcie, Josh, and his girlfriend Adriane, at the restaurant that Josh will be working at. The food was great, the company was excellent, and my heart was heavy knowing I would be leaving this again. I just had to ask myself “Self, why did you join the Army”. We all know if I was in the Air Force my tour would already be over.

Journal entry 21 Sep 09: Thinking about the soldiers that I left behind. Wondering if they were OK and wondering what the trip back was going to be like. All this and more are the thoughts I woke up to and had me feeling just a little depressed. I know I had to go back, I know that I had to finish this chapter of my life. It’s funny that your safe at home, far from Iraq but you think about it. You know you’re on borrowed time and that soon you’re going to be back in the sand box. How I wish that it was over, how I hate to leave, and yet I find myself wanting to go back and finish the job I started. Talk about mixed emotions but you can’t talk about it for fear that they won’t understand. I was worried that I might break I needed to be strong for my family. The emotions are running high in the house, and I know Susan can feel my unease. I had to shake it off I had lunch plans with my twin brother different mother Doug at Savoy’s (rated one of the best Pizza places in the cities). It was great seeing him as well and catching up on his life. Did I mention that we had a beer or two? I got home and found out that supper plans for the night with friends were cancelled and I was glad. Time spent with my family was the ticket I needed to kick the funk.

Journal entry 22 Sep 09: Another day left and the countdown clock was rapidly ticking away. So much that I wanted to do and so little time. I fired up the chain saw and cut the rest of the branches that I hadn’t gotten yet with the hand saw. It’s OK my grand baby was there to help me. If it wasn’t for her we would never have gotten the twigs picked up and piled half way to the brush pile. Then she made me pick up the apples that had fallen before the dogs could roll in them. She’s quite the slave driver and her Grandmother and I are so proud of her!

Dinner that night was with our friends Lisa and Kevin so I was able to catch up on the events of their life. Talk quickly changed from our kids to our trip to Hawaii that we were taking together after I retire next fall. Looking back at our dinner that night makes me smile. Like Martin Luther I know have a dream of sandy beaches with water. Drinks in a glass with an umbrella in it, definitely not the drink box that I’ve grown accustom to.

Journal entry 23 Sep 09: Departure day is here what can I say? Where did the time go thank god I have the memories and if my memory fails pictures of my family and friends? Darcie, Josh and Susan are going to the airport to say good bye. Good-bye is so permanent, it should be changed to see you later, or I will meet you in my dreams tonight. Passes were obtained and my family escorted me to the departure gate. When final good-byes were spoken and I headed down the concourse again to leave my family for the last time in my career I hoped. I couldn’t look back for fear that I would lose it. It sucks being a guy but my family knew that I was doing what I could to get through this. Man the thought that rushed through my mind as the door closed and we taxied down the run way.

To those still reading this take this opportunity to reach out and hug someone for me. Call someone now that you haven’t talked to in a while and let them know that they are in your thoughts. Tell them you love them and thank your lucky stars that your home with your loved ones! It will be months before I will awake to find my wife, dog and probably my grandbaby sleeping soundly knowing they are safe. Maybe that’s why we are here to keep the evil away from those that are so dear to us! If you see a guy in uniform thank them it doesn’t matter if they are a soldier, fireman, or a police officer they do what they do so you can sleep safe.

To my family and friends thanks for the great time, the great memories, and for being there for me and my family. To my wife Susan I know it can’t be easy to love a soldier, especially me. Trust me I know I’m a lucky man and I will get through this with you by my side.

The bright spot in my return was seeing my daughter Jacki and to quiz her about her comment that she made to her mother on the phone. She said when asked if she missed me that it was like having your parents away for a long weekend. That topic is still under discussion but the pictures that I brought her I’m sure will be looked at several times over the next few months.

That is all for now,

Dave

26 Aug 09 – Wooden Bowl

My brother-in-law Rich forwarded this to me. Sometimes I save forwards to read later and sometimes I read them right away. This time, given my present situation of having a few minutes on my hands I decided to read it right away.

The Wooden Bowl

I guarantee you will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl tomorrow, a week from now, a month from now, a year from now.

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered

The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.

The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. 'We must do something about father,' said the son. 'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.'

So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.

When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food

.

The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?' Just as sweetly, the boy responded, Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up. The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles five things:

A rainy day, the elderly, lost luggage, deployment, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life.’

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes.

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you but, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.

I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.

People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

I've learned that you should pass this on to everyone you care about, I just did.

Hopefully the wooden bowl story will make its way into your heart. Being here far from home definitely brings a new meaning to the story.

That is all,

Dave

P.S. I will be coming home soon leave the light on!

23 AUG 09 – Fun Meters Pegged

Good morning from Iraq,

I have to tell you this place isn’t exactly what the doctor ordered. Yesterday I’m pretty sure the temperatures were a balmy 125 with 80% humidity. Today the thermometer in the guard shack registers at 130. How I love the wind blowing the warm moist air off the ocean to bake us here. It reminds me of time spent with my father in an old finish sauna, with some old guy with the road map of life etched into his face pouting water on the rocks. I also remember my dad adding water to the rocks in the sauna saying it’s so good for you, and that it will clean your pores out. I didn’t really want him to add the water but he did it anyway. Present day all I can say is don’t add the water. If you remember reading my blog from the other day I mentioned briefly about wet underwear. Today it’s more of the same, were talking wet boots.

Yesterday when I took my boots off I noticed the water marks on the upper portion of my boots. Trust me in wasn’t from the higher than normal rainfall here. Or me marching through a marsh, and it definitely wasn’t from me hand washing my NTV (stands for Non-Tactical Vehicle) at Abdul’s wash and go. No it was definitely sweat that had leaked out of my pores that had joined other drops of sweat to run like a river down my legs during yesterdays roll over training. Instead of teaching us to be better drivers we teach our soldiers how to get out of a vehicle after it’s rolled over. All kidding aside, there are a lot of reasons why tactical vehicles roll over anything from fatigued drivers, narrow roads, the heat, and lack of experience. What’s funny is during the roll over training they have you strapped inside this simulated vehicle. In your group you have to nominate a driver (it was me), a vehicle commander, and a gunner to stand in the hatch. The trainer takes you left 30 degrees, then 90, back upright, right 30 degrees, to 90 and back. Then they give you the “loop de loop” treatment and you have to get out. As the driver I wanted to yell “hold my beer and watch this”.

I feel that for the most part I’ve been pretty good when it comes to complaining about the heat. As the guys that we replaced said “it is what it is”. What an odd thing to say but it’s true. It’s hot, and its hotter that’s your choices here. As if that wasn’t bad enough you’re here far away from home and the only green that you see is off in the distance, or the paper money in your wallet.

My youngest boy Josh graduated from Basic last Friday and I’m so proud of him. I know I’ve said it before but you truly have to give a little of yourself to your country before you can complain about your life. Both Jacki and Josh have given a part of themselves to serve, just like their dad has done and a long line of family before them. Many of those I have served with who are like aunts and uncles to my kids have welcomed them into the ranks of those that have served. I know my kids can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of them. I watched the American Soldier video by Toby Keith the other day. It was very emotional and my eyes watered over. I thought about Jacki and Josh serving and wondered what the future holds for them. When my cube mate asked what’s wrong I said my allergies were acting up. I don’t think he suspected anything differently.

I imagine that when Josh gets back to High School this fall, he will walk a little different. His head will be held higher, his self confidence even higher. While his friends talk about time spent on the beach, and eating pizza at the pizza parlor, Josh will have stories from a different world unbeknownst to them. His stories will include how to treat someone for shock, properly throw a grenade, inflate a lung and shoot a gun accurately up to 400 meters. He will talk about the people he met and the bonds with strangers that were formed. While other tells about some place they stayed that was really fancy; he will tell a different story of his 30+ roommates, the food at the mess hall, and the latrines. Some of his friends might even complain that their car had broken down, and Josh might reply about completing the death march while carry everything from ammo, food, and his sleeping accommodations all on his back while wearing his full battle rattle. FYI – The term battle rattle means, Kevlar helmet, Rifle, and full body Armor.

Yep he’s going to be different; he experienced life outside of his security blanket. He left his family behind, his friends, and did something that most people wouldn’t even dream of. How many people can say with conviction in their voice “Greater love hath no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends”. It’s what being a soldier is all about, giving of oneself in order for others to live their life free.

Jacki can attest that it takes a little bit of awkward before some bit of normalcy comes back. Looking at the soldiers I’m serving with now I think we are all just a little different than the day we left home. Granted some are by far more different than the others, it’s more than that it’s about the change in one’s self due to the experience. Hopefully when we get home we will adapt to our lives before Iraq. That when a car backfires we won’t run for a bunker. Or when the fireworks are lit we don’t close our eyes and remember a place and time spent far from our homes.

Jacki, Josh and Doug you will never know the amount of pride I have for each of you knowing that you are wearing the uniform of a soldier. Knowing that you’re the next generation of soldiers will allow me to sleep comfortably knowing that you’re serving our country! My 30^th anniversary of serving is coming soon and all I can say is it’s been a great ride. When I finally pull the pin, and leave my last formation I know that one door will close but yet another will open. Remember that the 7 Army values are more than just words. They are a code of conduct for you to live your life by.

For those of you that know me well you should know that my fun meter is pegged and I’m ready to come home! Two weeks give or take and I will be back in the good old USA. My water marked boots will be in the closet; my uniform will be cleaned and hung on a hangar waiting for my trip back. Hopefully, the next part of my journey will be uneventful.

Susan – Thank you for our family and for the sacrifice that you have made so we can serve. Thank you for standing by my side as our kids sprouted their wings and flew. Most importantly thank you for such great kids! Looking at all of them now you would think that we actually knew what we were doing. That the sleepless nights were not for nothing, and that the joys of being a family by far outweigh the sorrows

That is all,

Dave

21 Aug 09 – Cribbage Masters

It’s been a while since I’ve posted and I thought I would share a little from my world. It is hot here today; I'm guessing its already 110 and 70% humidity. Needless to say after walking in my T-shirt is soaked, my deodorant has evaporated and my underwear is wet. There are a lot of “going to the movie” comments just waiting to be spoken. My day can only get better from here right? Looking back at the past week, I wonder can it get any better.

The message traffic below is about a hallway challenges that was issued to play cribbage dating all the way back to February at Ft Lewis. You see one of the soldiers added to our deployment is from Oregon. She had a special skill that was needed, and she filled a vacancy that we had. Quite a bit of trash talk but for some reason (she never showed) the game never happened.

After talking about it for so long the long anticipated game finally took place. We both opted to play with a partner just in case the game went south. The rational I’m sure on her part was in case of a loss you could blame it on your partner and never have to admit defeat. It reminded me of high school football playoffs with two local teams. There was electricity in the air as we sat down to the table to play. A new deck of cards was opened, the board inspected for flaws and the game was on!

The first game we were neck and neck down the back stretch, coming around the last corner we were elbowing each other all the way to the finish line. The second and third game was played, and again we triumphed. It was official we were the Cribbage Masters of Basrah!

Those of you that know me would realize that I would feel bad about the butt kicking. Using my great sportsmen like upbringing, and my conscious getting the best of me I thought I would offer up my support to the losing team. I sent the following message offering our support to the losing team.

All,

My cribbage partner Cheryl and I invite you to our office for some cribbage lessons. You and others like yourselves can be winners too! With our very easy to follow curriculum you can learn more than just how to play the game. With our Zen like training you not only learn the game but become one with cribbage as well. The steps are so simple that senior officers from North Carolina, and yes even the state of Oregon have witnessed what our training can do for you.

It's all broken down into simple steps:

Step 1: Understanding your opponent

Step 2: Emotional and physiological conditioning

Step 3: Game face

Step 4: Trash talk 101

Step 5: win/lose with dignity

Step 6: Happy dance

Below is a one of our customer comments from our website:

MAJ DTO (name changed to protect his identity) Being from Minnesota I thought I had the game down pat. In my mind I was able to walk the walk and talk the talk. What they taught me about cribbage has made me stand a little taller and walk with a spring in my step. Being a winner has changed my life for the better. I have looked into the face of fear (COS) and laughed because I know I am a winner! Dave and Cheryl you have made me what I am today and I thank you!

Contact either Cheryl or Dave for your first cribbage lesson today! Our operators are standing by. Enroll now and get our free introductory pamphlet "Cribbage it's not a game it’s a contact sport".

Remember the first step in seeking help is admitting that we are the winners and you're not worthy of us!

The Cribbage Masters!

With all my years of sportsmen like conduct behind me the other team had the nerve to reply the following.

SGM - I thank you for the invitation for a rematch of cribbage. I can see that you have achieved a graduate level at "trash talk". How about a rematch on Saturday evening? That would be conditional on if my partner is available as I believe that might interfere with movie night.

In addition, you might recall that we were fairly close on that one game. With additional practice I think LTC Muskrat and I will be kicking your hinny and have you squealing like a little piggy. (How's that for trash talk???)

Respectfully,

LTC Oregon

That’s a good sign that they would utter another challenge. But the tone that they used didn’t seem very nice. So I replied:

LTC Oregon,

It's so sad to read your message crying out for help! Under the circumstances I will waive our usual butt kicking fee in an effort to help you. As far as your trash talk comment goes I should add the word "Respectfully" after I use trash talk.

BMYAFP (Between Me, You and the Fence Post) close is a term used to describe horseshoes, hand grenades and poop fights, not to be used to describe the butt kicking we gave you. I'm sure in your mind you celebrated your second place victory.

Respectfully,

SGM

With that being said the additional training is scheduled for Saturday evening. I think with a little intervention that they might be able to break the cycle. My question to myself is “Self, do you let them play the A team or give them a chance with the B team?”

I will let you know the outcome later. Although I’m sure most of you by now know the outcome. For those of you back home in Osakis, and Oak Grove Lessons are available!

That is all,

Dave