I’ve been here long enough that I felt like trying to explain what, for the most part, could be construed as an “average” day in this anything but average place.
I wake up early, anywhere between 0500 and 0600 depending on the day. It is often frigid in my room, as the little Chigo air conditioner gained headway against the heat of the day through the cool of the night. The sun has already been awake far longer than I, but we have blocked its entry to our room with towels over the window. I slip on my shower shoes and step into the hallway to stumble my way to the bathroom; the already warm hallway feels nice. For reasons that escape me, the bathroom is kept at a temperature more suitable for the storing of meat, not the exiting of showers. But I shower at night, because in my mind there is no point to showering in the morning here.
Depending on how energetic I feel, and how wrinkled my uniform is, I might break out the super awesome iron I purchased here. Yes, it is odd for someone to get excited about an iron, but the one I have back home is older than I am (literally – a hand-me-down from the parents). While the basics of iron technology haven’t changed in the past 20 years, it’s still nice to have one that’s shiny and new and gets wrinkles out of clothing – the core tenant of any iron.
The chow hall (one of the 5 on base) is ridiculously close to my room. Ridiculous, only in its extreme proximity to me, and yet the surprisingly infrequency with which I visit it. Breakfast is a luxury that - at least for me - cannot be afforded. Perchance, if the stars align, I may make my way through the breakfast line with a take out plate to eat at my desk… but there’s a better chance of the Chargers winning the Super Bowl than that happening on a regular basis. Breakfast time is spent at my desk, drinking coffee and eating whatever ornamentally packaged “health” food happens to be sitting around. To that note: thank you to Anna for the baked goods, and to Mother for the healthy cereal bars – they have gotten me through many a morning.
By and large, my day is spent sitting in the back right corner of a decently sized windowless wooden room, staring at a computer monitor, fighting fires and getting work done. Our office is air conditioned as well, which is a good thing. The generator powering the building however, has been having issues, often leaving us to chose between functioning lights and computers or functioning air conditioning. The building, all of it looking much the same as my office – windowless plywood walls, ceilings, and doors – sits inside a much larger tent. In the heat of the afternoon, it can be in excess of 95* if the air conditioning goes out. We are all much happier when the generator is working.
My day is spent switching between two computers: the “low” side computer for unclassified work and the “high” side computer for the secret and classified information. With my Chief, a very intelligent and personable man, we are the single point of contact for all construction across five Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and multiple smaller Combat Outposts (COPs). At any given time, either of us should be able to tell you what projects are going on at which FOB, to include who’s doing the work, how far along the project is, when it will be done, what issues it has, who the end user is, and what project that team will be moving on to after completion. Often, we are required to recite said information to those powers that be whom require it.
This work manifests itself in a number of ways. Two nights a week, every week, I have a meeting for one of my FOBs where all the key players sit around a huge plywood table and discuss the status of projects. I am by far the junior man, often sitting between O-5s and O-6s (O being for officer, the number being for their rank. I am an O-2 – side bar: I was recently promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade after spending two years as an Ensign. Better pay, slightly more respect, and progress…) I brief the first slide of the night, focusing specifically on the troop labor side of construction. Without belaboring the topic, there are three ways to do construction out here: Troops (Army, Air Force, or Navy Seabees!!!), Contracting (local or international companies that bid for construction jobs), and through a massive already established contract called LOGCAP. I deal mainly with the first, assigning US service members to do work for US bases.
Work also comes via email, phone call, and meetings and they all come in droves. With limited resources, multiple customers, and a “yesterday” deadline mentality we’re kept busy.
One of the highlights of my job is traveling out to visit my FOBs, getting me off KAF and outside the wire; a chance that very few of my shipmates get out here. For my FOBs we travel exclusively by helicopter, which for the adventurous side of me is incredibly awesome. The flights are uncomfortable and violent, an assault on the body. Occupants squeeze themselves in shoulder to shoulder, adorned in full combat attire and loaded for bear. Almost every time I’m in the helicopter I hear Fortunate Son by CCR or Flight of the Valkyries from Platoon in my head – it’s like clockwork. FOB visits are exhausting and hectic, trying to cram in as much project review and situational awareness before the sound of the rotors spinning up sends a shot of adrenaline through the veins. I haven’t been left behind yet, but it’s been damn close. As terrible as it sounds, I am ecstatic that it is part of my job.
Lunch is another one of those many luxuries that the operational tempo of my day doesn't lend itself to on a regular basis. My predecessor left a plethora of tuna packages, a staple of mid afternoon hunger abatement. My stomach has shrunk considerably since being here, to a point where I fear I may never again become the veritable garbage disposal I once was.
Another part of my day is spent keeping abreast of the realities of war, reading the countless “Flag Status” emails directing whether the flag is at full or half mast; the subsequent “Ramp Ceremony” emails outlining the details of the fallen soldier’s last flight home; the daily Intel Summary reporting all of the combat events of the day and their human toll. It’s a sobering activity to say the least, but important to keep on top of.
Work normally wraps up around 1830 or 1900 when a group of us wander to one of the DFACs (Dining Facilities) nearby – unless it’s one of the nights I have my meetings, and then it’s off to do that. After chow it’s customary to come back to the office to check the emails and put out any last minute fires before securing for the day.
Back in the hooch (that’s military slang for room), I hop on my laptop to check in on my social networking and blog e-life. Depending on my energy level I’ll head out for a short run around the base or go to the gym to do some strength training. The condition of the air here is not conducive to physical activity, parching the mouth and lungs and replacing whatever was there with dust. But it’s a nice release from the day, some time just for me and the stars and my reflective yellow belt.
After showering and cooling down in the sub-arctic chill of the bathroom, it’s time for bed. I have learned to sleep fully clothed, including socks, with my tennis shoes unlaced and ready to go right by the bed. It was a quick lesson learned after stumbling around in the darkness following our first rocket attack. Worrying about where your pants are in the confusion and darkness should not be top priority in those moments.
As I crawl into my sleeping bag, perched atop my less than comfortable mattress, exhausted from the day, I go to sleep to the faithful hum of the little Chigo, my mechanical Sisyphus, toiling again to overcome the latent heat of the day. And I in my own way will return again tomorrow to push boulders up hills, only to watch new ones appear shortly thereafter.
31 August 2009
23 August 2009
Show & Tell
For this installment of "My Time in the Sand Box"... Pictures!
First, some photos from Kuwait. Despite being hotter than hell and thousands of miles from home, there was something familiar about this place...
But Kuwait wasn't all nice - on the way to the shooting range we drove past countless areas full of burnt out wreckage from the first gulf war years ago. You probably saw photos in Time Magazine or splashed across the news - the "Highway of Death" as it was called. Almost 20 years later, and it's still there.
Here are photos from my flight out to Afghanistan in an airforce C-130. If you've never flown in a C-130, which I have to imagine is the majority of my target audience, then you're not missing much.
As you can see, the conditions are cramped - you're either sleeping on top of the cargo, or are packed in like cargo yourself.
The plane is loud, it bumps around a lot, and you can't move much unless you manage to wiggle your way to the back of the plane and walk around all flight. The bathroom is more like a curtain in the back of the plane you stand behind, and the in-flight entertainment is watching everyone try to get comfortable. One note of interest was that I met a fellow Steelers fan who happened to be one of the crew, thus gaining me an invite into the cockpit to watch the world fly by.
The rest of the photos are from Afghanistan. This first photo was taken from the chopper flight I took to one of my FOBs - you'll note that there is in fact water in Afghanistan.
This may very well be the only body of water in all of Afghanistan, a reservoir used to supply irrigation to the low lying fields in the area. The mountains are everywhere and not the most hospitable of places, thus explaing why our forces are having such a tough time getting things done out there.
Next is a photo my Chief took of me looking over the FOB, getting a feel for the layout of the base. My trusty M-4 is just out of the frame of the picture, but the M-9 never leaves my side.
To either side of me you can see HESCO Bastions, which are basically giant metal baskets with fabric liners that you fill with sand to create what amounts to a really big sand bag. Stack a few together and you've got a damn good force protection wall. Behind me is a big bladder full of water, likely for construction purposes.
Here you can see that there is still time for humor out in the desert. You may have to click to the big size to see what's written on the gun turret atop the vehicle.
This is a type of MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle, designed to help troops stay safer from IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).
On base, another photo that made me chuckle... Even in a land of perceived chaos and lawlessness....
...your tactical up-armored Humvee can get a parking ticket.
As part of my diet plan to kick my Dad's butt in our weight loss competition - the Jared Diet - Afghanistan style!
Already down 16 pounds from the start of deployment... Be afraid pops, be very afraid.
When you're in Afghanistan, there's not a whole lot to do other than work and sleep. Not one to be without a project, I decided to better my life AND my living accommodations with the addition of one very awesome MacGyver-esque shelf.
Some plywood, a Leatherman, and some string - Presto! A shelf. You will also note my humble sleeping accommodations and the Air Conditioner that works its little heart out to keep our room tenable.
Moon dust is a term used around here to describe the material that covers most of the base. I can't call it sand, dirt, dust, or anything like that. Sometimes up to 2 feet thick, it gets everywhere and is simply impossible to deal with. I took a video to try and illustrate how thick it can be.
First, some photos from Kuwait. Despite being hotter than hell and thousands of miles from home, there was something familiar about this place...
But Kuwait wasn't all nice - on the way to the shooting range we drove past countless areas full of burnt out wreckage from the first gulf war years ago. You probably saw photos in Time Magazine or splashed across the news - the "Highway of Death" as it was called. Almost 20 years later, and it's still there.
Here are photos from my flight out to Afghanistan in an airforce C-130. If you've never flown in a C-130, which I have to imagine is the majority of my target audience, then you're not missing much.
As you can see, the conditions are cramped - you're either sleeping on top of the cargo, or are packed in like cargo yourself.
The plane is loud, it bumps around a lot, and you can't move much unless you manage to wiggle your way to the back of the plane and walk around all flight. The bathroom is more like a curtain in the back of the plane you stand behind, and the in-flight entertainment is watching everyone try to get comfortable. One note of interest was that I met a fellow Steelers fan who happened to be one of the crew, thus gaining me an invite into the cockpit to watch the world fly by.
The rest of the photos are from Afghanistan. This first photo was taken from the chopper flight I took to one of my FOBs - you'll note that there is in fact water in Afghanistan.
This may very well be the only body of water in all of Afghanistan, a reservoir used to supply irrigation to the low lying fields in the area. The mountains are everywhere and not the most hospitable of places, thus explaing why our forces are having such a tough time getting things done out there.Next is a photo my Chief took of me looking over the FOB, getting a feel for the layout of the base. My trusty M-4 is just out of the frame of the picture, but the M-9 never leaves my side.
To either side of me you can see HESCO Bastions, which are basically giant metal baskets with fabric liners that you fill with sand to create what amounts to a really big sand bag. Stack a few together and you've got a damn good force protection wall. Behind me is a big bladder full of water, likely for construction purposes.Here you can see that there is still time for humor out in the desert. You may have to click to the big size to see what's written on the gun turret atop the vehicle.
This is a type of MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle, designed to help troops stay safer from IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).On base, another photo that made me chuckle... Even in a land of perceived chaos and lawlessness....
...your tactical up-armored Humvee can get a parking ticket.As part of my diet plan to kick my Dad's butt in our weight loss competition - the Jared Diet - Afghanistan style!
Already down 16 pounds from the start of deployment... Be afraid pops, be very afraid.When you're in Afghanistan, there's not a whole lot to do other than work and sleep. Not one to be without a project, I decided to better my life AND my living accommodations with the addition of one very awesome MacGyver-esque shelf.
Some plywood, a Leatherman, and some string - Presto! A shelf. You will also note my humble sleeping accommodations and the Air Conditioner that works its little heart out to keep our room tenable.Moon dust is a term used around here to describe the material that covers most of the base. I can't call it sand, dirt, dust, or anything like that. Sometimes up to 2 feet thick, it gets everywhere and is simply impossible to deal with. I took a video to try and illustrate how thick it can be.
All that airborne detritus, into your lungs, equipment, eyes, offices; wherever there's a place for moon dust to go, it will be there.
And for those who think that military folk may not be the most culturally advanced, I'd like to point out that we're all big fans of geography!
New Jersey is only 9,000 miles away - that may explain the smell.
Finally, because I've been traveling a bit, it's only appropriate I show off my hot new ride.
The UH-60 Blackhawk. Flying in style! Taken from my bird looking back at our support bird, on our way out into the wild beige yonder.
Overall, things are good, work is starting to make a lot more sense, and the routine is becoming a little more familiar. Still always exhausted and running at 100mph, but that's a regular day around here. Thank you for the kind emails, comments, and care packages. I appreciate them greatly.
And for those who think that military folk may not be the most culturally advanced, I'd like to point out that we're all big fans of geography!
New Jersey is only 9,000 miles away - that may explain the smell.Finally, because I've been traveling a bit, it's only appropriate I show off my hot new ride.
The UH-60 Blackhawk. Flying in style! Taken from my bird looking back at our support bird, on our way out into the wild beige yonder.Overall, things are good, work is starting to make a lot more sense, and the routine is becoming a little more familiar. Still always exhausted and running at 100mph, but that's a regular day around here. Thank you for the kind emails, comments, and care packages. I appreciate them greatly.
20 August 2009
Get Some!
The title is in reference to a scene from Full Metal Jacket where they're flying in a heilo (Helicopter for you weenies out there) and the crazy door gunner is shooting and yelling. My day today was very similar, except for, well... most of it. But wait, I'll start at the beginning.
Call it foreshadowing, bad luck, or jinxing myself - but I can now sleep peacefully at night knowing that a car driving by is just a car, a jet taking off is just a jet, and a rocket attack is a unique beast unto itself. Strange, I know, but it brings some degree of peace. It also makes people very sleepy.
Today I got to travel to my first FOB (Forward Operating Base), which is a smaller base out in the middle of nowhere (could you get anymore nowhere than Kandahar? You bet!), where smaller units live and conduct operations. I have 5 under my responsibility, and I have to visit them all somewhat regularly.
When you're as cool as I am, or pretend to be, there's only one way to travel - UH60 Blackhawk Helicopter! While waiting for my ride, I got to hang out on the flight line and see all sorts of aircraft, both manned and unmanned, take to the skys. The heilo ride was great, especially because I love helicopters. Strangely enough, the only time prior to this I rode in a helicopter, I was the one flying it. Not so in this case. We were crammed in there in full gear, but I got to sit up next to the door gunner - now you might get the title reference.
The FOB... well, nothing like going to a place that is bleak and ouster to the Nth degree to make you appreciate small rooms and the aroma of feces in the air back at your camp. They've got some good projects going on out there, and some awesome people, but I'd go nuts if I had to live there.
The ride back was super awesome as it was just those of us on the trip and we spent a little time cruising the country side in the heilo. It was incredible to say the least, although hot as hell. I don't think I've EVER seen a place as barren as Afghanistan. It boggles the mind why people live out here, or even how they live out here. I saw my first animal today, it was actually somewhat shocking. The vast spances of nothingness, dirt, sand, and sun baked earth are incredible. Then, as if a mirage, small little patches of green surrounding housing compounds pop out of nowhere. I took photos, and will post them once I get situated.
As for getting situated - I work from 0700 to 2000 or later every day (including the weekends) and don't get much time off in that block. Today was 0630 until 1900 when I had to go give a brief to a bunch of USFOR-A (US Forces - Afghanistan) big wigs, which lasted about an hour. As part of my job, I have to give one of these briefs for each of my FOBs every other week, so I'll be quite busy (on top of the already being busy part). I tried to call home today from the MWR phones but after 40 minutes of not being able to get through to an operator, I gave up - sorry mom. I'm using my roommate's computer because I haven't had time to get mine hooked up here, but maybe I'll have a minute somewhere in life. To top it off, the power in the building has been out most of the day, but I think they're going to have that fixed soon enough.
All in all, and despite all the potential doom and gloom, spirits are high. I am exhausted, but I guess that makes up for my inability to make it to the gym. 3 days down, it already feels like 3 months - I hope I can keep up the pace, the energy, and my health and see this to fruition.
Call it foreshadowing, bad luck, or jinxing myself - but I can now sleep peacefully at night knowing that a car driving by is just a car, a jet taking off is just a jet, and a rocket attack is a unique beast unto itself. Strange, I know, but it brings some degree of peace. It also makes people very sleepy.
Today I got to travel to my first FOB (Forward Operating Base), which is a smaller base out in the middle of nowhere (could you get anymore nowhere than Kandahar? You bet!), where smaller units live and conduct operations. I have 5 under my responsibility, and I have to visit them all somewhat regularly.
When you're as cool as I am, or pretend to be, there's only one way to travel - UH60 Blackhawk Helicopter! While waiting for my ride, I got to hang out on the flight line and see all sorts of aircraft, both manned and unmanned, take to the skys. The heilo ride was great, especially because I love helicopters. Strangely enough, the only time prior to this I rode in a helicopter, I was the one flying it. Not so in this case. We were crammed in there in full gear, but I got to sit up next to the door gunner - now you might get the title reference.
The FOB... well, nothing like going to a place that is bleak and ouster to the Nth degree to make you appreciate small rooms and the aroma of feces in the air back at your camp. They've got some good projects going on out there, and some awesome people, but I'd go nuts if I had to live there.
The ride back was super awesome as it was just those of us on the trip and we spent a little time cruising the country side in the heilo. It was incredible to say the least, although hot as hell. I don't think I've EVER seen a place as barren as Afghanistan. It boggles the mind why people live out here, or even how they live out here. I saw my first animal today, it was actually somewhat shocking. The vast spances of nothingness, dirt, sand, and sun baked earth are incredible. Then, as if a mirage, small little patches of green surrounding housing compounds pop out of nowhere. I took photos, and will post them once I get situated.
As for getting situated - I work from 0700 to 2000 or later every day (including the weekends) and don't get much time off in that block. Today was 0630 until 1900 when I had to go give a brief to a bunch of USFOR-A (US Forces - Afghanistan) big wigs, which lasted about an hour. As part of my job, I have to give one of these briefs for each of my FOBs every other week, so I'll be quite busy (on top of the already being busy part). I tried to call home today from the MWR phones but after 40 minutes of not being able to get through to an operator, I gave up - sorry mom. I'm using my roommate's computer because I haven't had time to get mine hooked up here, but maybe I'll have a minute somewhere in life. To top it off, the power in the building has been out most of the day, but I think they're going to have that fixed soon enough.
All in all, and despite all the potential doom and gloom, spirits are high. I am exhausted, but I guess that makes up for my inability to make it to the gym. 3 days down, it already feels like 3 months - I hope I can keep up the pace, the energy, and my health and see this to fruition.
18 August 2009
News Flash
Greetings from Kandahar, Afghanistan!
The past 72 hours have been crazy, but here's the basic run down:
Was up and off to the shooting range in Kuwait at 0400, sited in our weapons wearing all our gear and made sure everything worked OK. From there it was time to get situated and ready to leave for Afghanistan, packing bags, loading gear, and various other things. My flight got pushed back so didn't end up getting on the bus until around midnight, then on the plane some time closer to 4 or 5 AM. The flight begs specific mention...
We flew out on a C130 fully geared up sitting on web jump seats knee to knee, shoulder to shoulder, crammed in like sardines. These planes are not known for their comfort, stability, or speed. I didn't sleep the entire flight but I did manage to escape my seat and make my way to the back where all the gear was loaded. There I found a comfortable seat on top of all the bags looking out a window. I also met a fellow Steelers fan and got a VIP trip to the cockpit for a while. I didn't get a chance to sleep, but the flight was overall very good.
Upon landing at KAF (Kandahar Air Field) I had about 30 minutes to get my stuff in to my room and grab some food before work started. There are 6 of us in a 4 person room, 2 other Ensigns from my unit and 3 enlisted guys from our subordinate unit. This is going to be interesting to say the least.
KAF is huge, and is truly joint. There are multiple dining facilities (we call them DFACs) representing cuisine from multiple countries. There are all flavors of NATO troops walking around base, which makes for a cacophony of different uniforms and accents. I haven't had much time to explore the base, but I have noticed that every square inch of this base is covered in an extremely fine dust. Not the kind of dust we saw in Kuwait that you could feel the grit on your teeth. This is the kind of dust - begrudgingly called Moon Dust here - that is more like talcum powder, gets everywhere, accumulates on any semi-horizontal surface, and dries out your hands like crazy. This may come to a shock to those who know me, but I have actually started to use hand lotion / moisturizer, and it's driving me up the wall. But enough about that.
Work, being why I'm here, will be the full master of my time. Thus far I was in the office from approximately 1300 - 2000 on the day I arrived and 0745 - 2130 today. Sleep is a luxury, as is eating, socializing, and doing anything related to personal care. I have not laundered my uniform since leaving the US, and while I stink, I am not the worst smelling thing out here (the base wide septic pond was poorly sited at the most up-wind portion of the base). We work 6.5-7 days a week and are expecting to spend 14-18 hours a day at work. Of course, some of that time will be used for going to the gym at lunch, once I get into a routine.
My job, while still ambiguous as I'm in the process of learning it, is to be THE go-to guy for construction projects at 5 FOBs (Forward Operating Bases) located throughout the east of southern Afghanistan. I have to give briefs on a weekly basis to high ranking military officials on the progress and issues, put out proverbial fires, and basically be a master of everything there is to master. I should also expect to travel to the various FOBs under my guidance on a regular basis, which means a lot of time ridding in helicopters, which is very awesome.
Overall, I'm optimistic and doing well. That may be partially due to the caffeine high I'm riding on from the RipIt energy drink I chugged a while ago, but I think most of it is due to the fact that there's a lot going on, a lot to do, and it's all new and exciting. The only thing weighing on me is the reportedly frequent rocket attacks that KAF is subject to - a simple Google search can pull up many stories... They're not accurate and few people have been injured or killed from them, but I have no idea what something like that would be like. Every time a jet takes off or a car drives by my room, I have a moment of freaking out. As macabre as it may sound, I just want to get it over with so I know what to expect and can stop thinking every sound is something in-bound. They do have significant safety measures in place, both passive and active, which of course I cannot speak to due to security reasons. I'm not all that worried for my well being, and neither should you!
I'll post more when I can, once I get my internet set up in my room and get life a little more figured out. It should be a while though, so stand by...
The past 72 hours have been crazy, but here's the basic run down:
Was up and off to the shooting range in Kuwait at 0400, sited in our weapons wearing all our gear and made sure everything worked OK. From there it was time to get situated and ready to leave for Afghanistan, packing bags, loading gear, and various other things. My flight got pushed back so didn't end up getting on the bus until around midnight, then on the plane some time closer to 4 or 5 AM. The flight begs specific mention...
We flew out on a C130 fully geared up sitting on web jump seats knee to knee, shoulder to shoulder, crammed in like sardines. These planes are not known for their comfort, stability, or speed. I didn't sleep the entire flight but I did manage to escape my seat and make my way to the back where all the gear was loaded. There I found a comfortable seat on top of all the bags looking out a window. I also met a fellow Steelers fan and got a VIP trip to the cockpit for a while. I didn't get a chance to sleep, but the flight was overall very good.
Upon landing at KAF (Kandahar Air Field) I had about 30 minutes to get my stuff in to my room and grab some food before work started. There are 6 of us in a 4 person room, 2 other Ensigns from my unit and 3 enlisted guys from our subordinate unit. This is going to be interesting to say the least.
KAF is huge, and is truly joint. There are multiple dining facilities (we call them DFACs) representing cuisine from multiple countries. There are all flavors of NATO troops walking around base, which makes for a cacophony of different uniforms and accents. I haven't had much time to explore the base, but I have noticed that every square inch of this base is covered in an extremely fine dust. Not the kind of dust we saw in Kuwait that you could feel the grit on your teeth. This is the kind of dust - begrudgingly called Moon Dust here - that is more like talcum powder, gets everywhere, accumulates on any semi-horizontal surface, and dries out your hands like crazy. This may come to a shock to those who know me, but I have actually started to use hand lotion / moisturizer, and it's driving me up the wall. But enough about that.
Work, being why I'm here, will be the full master of my time. Thus far I was in the office from approximately 1300 - 2000 on the day I arrived and 0745 - 2130 today. Sleep is a luxury, as is eating, socializing, and doing anything related to personal care. I have not laundered my uniform since leaving the US, and while I stink, I am not the worst smelling thing out here (the base wide septic pond was poorly sited at the most up-wind portion of the base). We work 6.5-7 days a week and are expecting to spend 14-18 hours a day at work. Of course, some of that time will be used for going to the gym at lunch, once I get into a routine.
My job, while still ambiguous as I'm in the process of learning it, is to be THE go-to guy for construction projects at 5 FOBs (Forward Operating Bases) located throughout the east of southern Afghanistan. I have to give briefs on a weekly basis to high ranking military officials on the progress and issues, put out proverbial fires, and basically be a master of everything there is to master. I should also expect to travel to the various FOBs under my guidance on a regular basis, which means a lot of time ridding in helicopters, which is very awesome.
Overall, I'm optimistic and doing well. That may be partially due to the caffeine high I'm riding on from the RipIt energy drink I chugged a while ago, but I think most of it is due to the fact that there's a lot going on, a lot to do, and it's all new and exciting. The only thing weighing on me is the reportedly frequent rocket attacks that KAF is subject to - a simple Google search can pull up many stories... They're not accurate and few people have been injured or killed from them, but I have no idea what something like that would be like. Every time a jet takes off or a car drives by my room, I have a moment of freaking out. As macabre as it may sound, I just want to get it over with so I know what to expect and can stop thinking every sound is something in-bound. They do have significant safety measures in place, both passive and active, which of course I cannot speak to due to security reasons. I'm not all that worried for my well being, and neither should you!
I'll post more when I can, once I get my internet set up in my room and get life a little more figured out. It should be a while though, so stand by...
15 August 2009
Sandstorm
...No, not the techno song by DaRude... THIS kind of sand storm:
That's a photo taken directly at the sun at around 1530 during a sand storm... not the kind of stuff you want to be breathing. This is what I was talking about with the sandy hair-dryer analogy.
Today was simply, got our ammo issued, got our ESAPI (Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts) plates for our bullet proof vests. I got a nice new scope for my rifle, so that should be good... I feel ready to rock!
That's a photo taken directly at the sun at around 1530 during a sand storm... not the kind of stuff you want to be breathing. This is what I was talking about with the sandy hair-dryer analogy.Today was simply, got our ammo issued, got our ESAPI (Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts) plates for our bullet proof vests. I got a nice new scope for my rifle, so that should be good... I feel ready to rock!
14 August 2009
BOG
Boots On Ground (BOG) is a term often used by today's military. All the time spent in deployment up to now doesn't count for much, it's the time spent with my boots actually on the ground in a combat zone that make the difference and add up to the various benefits given to mobilized troops. While Kuwait isn't really considered a combat zone by any means, it's still a far cry from the good ol' US of A.
At the same time however, Kuwait is not too different than any other US city, other than all the sand and crazy heat. But flying in, I could see cities and suburbs and housing developments. Freeways, highways, the stereotypically American clover-leaf on/off ramps. Cars, trucks, people going about their daily business. There were little ponds scattered across the landscape, although they were full of oil instead of water.
The architecture around here is beautiful, at least off the base. Mosques, beautiful stone work, vibrant colors, and a surprising amount of landscaping considering the lack of rain and fresh water.
On the down side - it's hot. REAL hot. 118*F hot, in the shade, with a 20mph wind. I describe it as putting on a long sleeve shirt, long pants, 30lbs of gear, then turning 3 hair dryers on full blast and pointing them at your face. Then randomly toss handfuls of very fine dusty sand into the air and let it blow against your face. That might start to paint a picture - frankly, I'll never wonder what the inside of a convection oven feels like ever again.
The base here is quite nice, very large, and plenty of home-style accommodations. Real showers, sit down toilets, 16 beds (bunk style) to a room that is thankfully air conditioned. There's a McDonalds (of course) and Coffee Bean and KFC and a Dippin' Dots machine. There are stores aplenty and wireless internet and plenty of creature comforts to remind you of home. Until you step outside at 2200 and get kicked in the mouth by 95* air. That has a tendancy to snap you back to reality.
Me & my buddy Mike in the waiting zone shortly after arriving at the airport in Kuwait.
At the same time however, Kuwait is not too different than any other US city, other than all the sand and crazy heat. But flying in, I could see cities and suburbs and housing developments. Freeways, highways, the stereotypically American clover-leaf on/off ramps. Cars, trucks, people going about their daily business. There were little ponds scattered across the landscape, although they were full of oil instead of water.
The architecture around here is beautiful, at least off the base. Mosques, beautiful stone work, vibrant colors, and a surprising amount of landscaping considering the lack of rain and fresh water.
On the down side - it's hot. REAL hot. 118*F hot, in the shade, with a 20mph wind. I describe it as putting on a long sleeve shirt, long pants, 30lbs of gear, then turning 3 hair dryers on full blast and pointing them at your face. Then randomly toss handfuls of very fine dusty sand into the air and let it blow against your face. That might start to paint a picture - frankly, I'll never wonder what the inside of a convection oven feels like ever again.
The base here is quite nice, very large, and plenty of home-style accommodations. Real showers, sit down toilets, 16 beds (bunk style) to a room that is thankfully air conditioned. There's a McDonalds (of course) and Coffee Bean and KFC and a Dippin' Dots machine. There are stores aplenty and wireless internet and plenty of creature comforts to remind you of home. Until you step outside at 2200 and get kicked in the mouth by 95* air. That has a tendancy to snap you back to reality.
Me & my buddy Mike in the waiting zone shortly after arriving at the airport in Kuwait.12 August 2009
Standby to standby...
So what's better than stopping in Topeka, Kansas to pick up 110 some Army guys before flying off to Kuwait? Landing there, sitting in the terminal for 2 hours, then sitting on the plane for 3 hours while they figure out that the plane has a problem, taxiing around the runway once, then deplaning back to the terminal. Without AC the entire time.
Yes - this is the joyous start to my yet to truly begin deployment...
****UPDATE**** - It's 0830 on Thursday and we're still in Kansas at Fort Reilley (sp?)... At least we had a bed to sleep in. Here goes try #2. As they say - you can't spell Kuwait without WAIT...
11 August 2009
The Parting Glass
In my room, here in Port Hueneme, it is pushing 1400 (2pm for you land lubbers)... 12 or so hours from now I will leave my room for the last time and march over to the Regimental HQ. We will muster, bid farewell to those family and friends who have come to see us off, check out our individual weapons, bus to the near by air base and await our flight... Some 36 or so hours from now, I will deplane that aircraft in Kuwait and begin my six or so months of deployment. 4,332 hours later - and that's a ROUGH estimate - do the whole thing in reverse. It may be some time before I can post again, but do not worry - I am fine.
So, as my last post before my world gets turned upside-down, I leave you with a verse from the wonderul Irish Folk Song - The Parting Glass:
Of all the comrades that ere I had, they're sorry for my going away,
And of all the sweethearts that ere I had , they wish me one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot that I should rise while you should not,
I will gently rise and I'll softly call, "Goodnight and joy be with you all!"
Goodnight, and joy be with you all.
So, as my last post before my world gets turned upside-down, I leave you with a verse from the wonderul Irish Folk Song - The Parting Glass:
Of all the comrades that ere I had, they're sorry for my going away,
And of all the sweethearts that ere I had , they wish me one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot that I should rise while you should not,
I will gently rise and I'll softly call, "Goodnight and joy be with you all!"
Goodnight, and joy be with you all.
04 August 2009
Mail Call
Many of you have asked - nay, demanded - my address while forward. Your wish is my humble command:
Firstname Lastname (No rank - and this is a public blog, don't want to give TOO much away)
30NCR, USN, (SEABEES)
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD
APO AE 09355
Please note a few things:
Finally, if you do chose to send me something - let me know if you can. I don't know how the mail system will work out there, but if I can keep an eye out for special treats from home, I'll be at the mail room every hour on the hour!
To everyone considering and offering to help make the deployment a little easier by sending tokens of your love and appreciation - thank you. I haven't even shipped off yet, and I already know how much those kinds of things will mean to me. I imagine being there will only help to solidify that presumption.
Firstname Lastname (No rank - and this is a public blog, don't want to give TOO much away)
30NCR, USN, (SEABEES)
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD
APO AE 09355
Please note a few things:
- There is no rank or other identifying information on the address, just my name. Also note that there is no country listing.
- This is an APO address, which goes to a specific base only. If my unit ends up moving, I'll provide the FPO box.
- The USPS has special discount postage on some of their packages for APO mailings.
- Shipping from the US is reported to take between 7 and 10 days.
- Contraband, to include alcohol and pornography, is strictly prohibited. This is directed only at a very minute percentage of my readers - you know who you are.
- I won't be there for a little while, so those of you on the ball - hold off a few days.
- Word from those that know is that if you plan to send tasty things, along with scented non-tasty things (like cookies and deodorant), they need to be packed in separate boxes or you wind up with Ocean Breeze Sport tasting cookies, regardless of how many ziplock bags you use.
Finally, if you do chose to send me something - let me know if you can. I don't know how the mail system will work out there, but if I can keep an eye out for special treats from home, I'll be at the mail room every hour on the hour!
To everyone considering and offering to help make the deployment a little easier by sending tokens of your love and appreciation - thank you. I haven't even shipped off yet, and I already know how much those kinds of things will mean to me. I imagine being there will only help to solidify that presumption.
A Word of Advice...
If you've ever felt the urge to get vaccinated for Anthrax - don't. It sucks. It's a sneaky bastard of a shot that creeps up on you like an SBD in a crowded elevator; lingering and tormenting you.
This public service advisory was brought to you by Nabisco.
This public service advisory was brought to you by Nabisco.
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