Heading home

Well, over the past month, I havn’t been able to get access to my blog. As I said before, the internet here is lacking. They are still trying to get MWR computers/phones setup, but it still looks like it’s another month out. I’ll try and post at least one more detailed wrap-up of my time here, but my six month tour has finally come to an end. It’s been great getting to know everyone that found comfort and encouragement through my postings. I’m glad I was able to at least provide some additional information about the battalion and what the Soldiers were dealing with here. Sadly, no one will be taking over this blog. I’ll post a little more later about my time here…

The cost of war

Sadly, the battalion has lost another Soldier. On Oct. 24, PFC Devin Michel was killed by an Improvised Explosive Device. PFC Michel served with Charlie Company, 3rd Platoon and was only 19 years old. I had just went out on patrol with PFC Michel and his platoon two days earlier and took quite a few pictures of him during that patrol. I’ve attached a few here. I’ll post more pictures after the memorial service. Please keep his family, friends and fellow Soldiers in your prayers.

If you don’t ask, the answer is always no

So most of you know that I grew up in Kenya, East Africa. My parents are missionaries and my dad has lived there most of his life. Well, growing up in a third world country you learn if you don’t ask, the answer is always no. So, I’m asking:

Once I return from deployment, I’m planning a trip back to Kenya for me, my wife and my two kids, Gavin and Ava.  Do any of you know a good travel agency, internet site or have any frequent flyer miles they may not be using during the mid-January timeframe. I’m stationed in Aviano, Italy, so the trip would go from Milan to Nairobi and back.

Thanks for any info you might be able to lend my way. Oh, I could probably throw in an Ostrich egg, Maasai carving or spear to anyone that helps!~ 🙂

Quick update

So, the other rumor is that the Canadians are trying to improve the bandwidth on the wireless and that it will be back up in the next few days. Let’s keep our laptops crossed and hope for the best. Otherwise, it’s not looking so good.

Also, phones run through our NIPR lines and because of bandwidth problems, they don’t want to hook up additional phone lines. Let’s hope that gets fixed soon.

Anyway, what matters most is that we are all doing well otherwise, healthy and looking forward to getting back home to our families.

Back at Wilson

So, I’m back at Wilson. Just a quick day trip to Kandahar and back.  I have to say, the lamb kabob and naan bread was absolutely delicious. Followed up by a green bean coffee, and I was set. Then I returned here … it’s not so bad. Internet is working, for now.

Net: I was asked if we could use another volleyball net. The one we have here seems to be in great condition, so for now, we are ok on that. Apart from snacks, I have to say, it’s the little stuff you wouldn’t think of that will go a long way.

Thanks to some new friends of mine, I received a frisbee, small football, baseball (the soft kind) and other misc toys. That’s the kind of stuff I wasn’t expecting, but honestly, I’ve found myself throwing those things at my roommates and going outside to throw frisbee just to relax.

I think the best method for picking out stuff for Soldiers is to take a child shopping with you. Let them pick out some stuff and send it. You won’t be to far off with what will make a Soldier’s day out here.

I hope everyone is doing well. We are finally getting situated and the Battalion is going to be doing some really exciting things in the Zhari District. I’ll fill you in later on the details.

Busy

Sorry for the lack of posting lately. I’ve had the busiest week since I got here. I’ve got some great pictures to post of the Soldiers and Afghans. I’ll be back in a few hours to load them up. Talk to you soon!