Life on a mission

After completing a weeklong route clearance mission with U.S. and ANA soldiers, I’ve a newfound respect for life with the Army. Life back at Camp Spann now seems like a stay at the Hilton.

I’d looked forward to the trip previously but an accident with a civilian vehicle forced us back to base a week prior. Our second attempt was much more successful and I soon found myself enjoying the amenities of life in the field. My Army family and friends will find this post amusing but it was somewhat of an awakening for me.

Starting my journey with a gunner, whose last name was Peacemaker, set the pace for what was definitely going to be a good trip. Peacemaker is a young guy from West Virginia who grew up in a town that isn’t even on the map. Listening to him talk over the headset during our trip with his distinctive accent made me constantly snicker at stories from his life in the hills.

Also keeping me amused was the banter between Williams, the truck commander, and the rest of the crew. It was obvious by their exchange that they were a close-knit group. Our truck commander is the seasoned vet of the group with several tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Many years of service, surviving a pair of IED attacks, and multiple enemy engagements have left a hardened soldier who commands the respect of our group. Don’t let the tough exterior fool you though; he does have a soft spot for his guys and Afghan children.

Butler, our driver, has spent time with Williams in Iraq. Together, the pair embellishes the stories from their experiences together. Butler is the even-keeled, poker-faced professional whose quick-wittedness kept the banter going through multiple days in field. A piece of dirt in the eye sidelined Butler on our first day after performing a quick inspection of the MRAP. Thankfully, our medic was able to flush his eye but needless to say, Butler will now were eye protection when crawling under his vehicle.

Price is the platoon medic, so the nickname Doc is an expected call sign to the tall soldier that frequently dons his BCGs (military friends will understand that one). He is a great fit to our truck despite being an outsider like myself. Anyone that can use a body bag for their sleeping bag is a perfect fit to the mix-matched personalities in our truck. I think Doc took the most grief from everyone during our trip but his high-spirited attitude kept his head in the game.

Guardiola, or Sgt G as he is known, is a prior-service Marine who made the switch to Army. G is definitely the true comedian of the group. His humor was quickly tamed and his time in the Marines showed immediately when the situation called for it. I relied a lot on G to guide me during dismount and any other time I just wasn’t sure what I was supposed to do. I was very thankful for his guidance.

Our journey was made tediously long because of the maximum driving speeds on our large vehicles. After a pit stop to refuel and catch some rest, we finally made it to our new home – an Afghan National Army outpost. I expected some pretty rough conditions but seeing the war-torn building that would be our new home was still a bit of a surprise. I did what everyone else was doing and found a space on the dirt-covered floor and quickly fell asleep.

Our first day was pretty uneventful, getting the lay of the land and linking up with the 209th Corps Route Clearance Company occupied our time. Later that day we had intelligence that put everyone on edge and forced us to increase our security posture into the evening. As night drew to a close, a rainstorm came barreling over the mountain and gave us a good soaking all night long. It rained so hard that the second floor, which was now the roof due to the previous roof being destroyed, began to leak and create puddles in all of the rooms. I found a room with least amount of water and it became my home for the remainder of the trip.

The next day was uneventful until we were told the ANA wanted to destroy the ammunition to make the last IED they found prior to our arrival. We were taken to the area where the IED was discovered and their EOD team destroyed the artillery shell and mortars used in the device. We were near a river and it was nice to see such lush green vegetation. On the way back we stopped in a local village for the ANA soldiers to buy food for their breakfast the next morning. We were surprised to find a teacher and his students who had just left school. He encouraged the boys to practice their English with U.S. soldiers.

A day later we were awoken to a very early morning mission. Thankfully, we had an hour to prepare so I managed to make coffee, well – it is kind of like coffee, and get a quick bite before heading out. We were all surprised to see so many ANA and ANP when we arrived at our final destination. I was told there were approximately 300 people involved in a mission to clear a Taliban strong hold. The mission of the 209th Corps RCC team was to be on standby incase any explosive devices were found. After waiting in one place for eight hours, the foot patrol cleared the area without incident and we headed home to finally get out of our gear. Side note about the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (body armor), it rests squarely on my hip bones, which were rubbed raw that day – compromise to wearing something that might save my life, I guess.

While we were out we learned two of the ANA officers were being promoted, so we decided to help the celebration by buying a sheep from the local village the next day. That night we all dined on a “home cooked” meal and the ANA even bought some cold soda for us to drink. Our dinner was almost ruined by a passing storm but we were able to enjoy the food without getting soaked. Williams had also purchased some eggs, onions, and tomatoes and our breakfast the following morning was another meal that didn’t come out of a pouch. At that point, I was really starting to enjoy my time in the field.

As I’ve learned already, I am never surprised at many different people I meet. While at our ANA out post, I met two U.S. soldiers living in a makeshift shack – literally. The pair had a unique mission to ensure the completion of two construction projects for use by ANA and coalition soldiers. They were dropped off with nothing more than their rucksacks and a handful of equipment and had to thumb rides from units operating in the area to get their tasks done. It was neat to see how they operated autonomously with just their initiative and help from passers by.

I learned many lessons about living in the field, living with the Army, and working with the ANA. Some experiences I could have done without, such as having to find a different place to sleep because the area I was in was now a puddle. Another lesson I didn’t look forward to learning was the number of days I could wear the same pair of clothes and how to take a baby-wipe shower (for the record they really don’t make you clean, but it does feel nice to be “cleaner” than when you started). I also learned that Afghans love to joke and have fun and that despite some cultural differences and the language barrier; we are a lot a like when it comes to living our lives.

Overall I had a great experience and was thankful to have met a great group of guys from 10th Mountain 1st Brigade Special Troop Battalion 2nd Platoon Alpha Company - thanks for the fun guys!



Stay tuned for more adventures in just another day in my life.

My Perspective

Lack of immediate access to the internet, coupled with longer waits for that access, have kept me from regular updates to my blog. I’ve been busy in the mean time continuing to mentor our ANA brothers while also covering other teams and events here in Afghanistan. I finally found a minute to sit and think about the experiences I’ve had and how I feel about them as a whole.

Opinions on Afghanistan are everywhere, I see them daily in the news and hear them from servicemembers on a regular basis. So I’d like this post to be about the things I’ve seen: the good and the bad.

I’ve seen Afghans who need help. Not just the kind of help that will keep them from being under the rule of the Taliban, but the kind of help that will give them life for another day.

I’ve seen those that are willing to learn. Giving people the ability to provide for themselves has been more rewarding for me to see than just another handout.

I’ve seen laziness. Not everyone in Afghanistan is looking for “assistance” and I’ve seen my share of those looking to take everything they can with no regard for the long-term benefits of learning to be self-sufficient.

I’ve seen a different culture. The biggest challenge in making progress has sometimes been the simple differences between our worlds. Whether I’ve not considered their perspective or they haven’t thought about mine, sometimes we build our own hurdles to overcome.

I’ve seen a mountain in front of us. Low literacy rates, educational levels unheard of in the states, and a complete lack of infrastructure to assist the rebuilding efforts present a very real problem to Afghanistan’s growth.

I’ve seen a divide. Much like America’s struggle to overcome racism, Afghanistan’s different tribes still pose a problem to the unity of their country. From in-house issues with mixed populations in our own ANA office to news reports of larger problems between villages, getting along with neighbors is another hurdle here.

I’ve seen hope. After a previous tour where I was able to see a great deal of the country, I see improvements in the country, the people, and their ability to change.

Regardless of your political view or stance, I hope this small tidbit gives you some insight into the things I’ve seen here…stay tuned for the next update to just another day in my life.

Basic Training

The other day I had the opportunity to watch nearly 2,000 soldiers swear into the Afghan National Army. It was a hot day, 95 degrees, and the soldiers had to wait for nearly three hours for the Afghan general to finally make it over. There should be a completely separate blog on what I think of that guy, but I won’t go there because I don’t have enough time to type it all out.

I was impressed to see all of the soldiers willing to make the sacrifice to fight for their country; it was very inspiring. From financial security for their families to patriotism, I’m sure each had their reasons for deciding to serve. Afghans aren’t that different from us, outside their religion, they want to have a productive life and to provide for their well being, so choosing to enlist was the same decision that many Americans make as well.

After the general finally arrived, and then babbled on for 35 minutes (note: commanders should know to keep it short), they finally reached the oath of enlistment – at least the Afghan equivalent anyway. Each soldier must place their hand on the Koran and swear allegiance to the country – this is a significant point in their transition into the military. It’s so significant that there is a team of sergeants and officers on hand to ensure that the soldiers actually place their hands onto the Koran and repeat the words.

Now I’m not 100% certain why some of them wouldn’t place their hand on the Koran, but some say it is because they are dishonest people with bad intentions. Knowing that there is a +/- 30% AWOL rate (essentially leaving before their service commitment is up) in the ANA, I think it is just because some of them will walk away if their family needs them or if they find a better opportunity. You have to remember that their way of life has revolved around self-preservation.

So, as the leaders walked around the table ensuring the soldiers did as instructed, they made immediate and seemingly harsh corrections to those that failed to comply. From forcing their hands on the Koran to ear twisting and blows to the back of the head, they made it evident that the oath they were taking was serious. Some soldiers looked as if they had just realized the commitment they were making with an almost hopeless look in their eyes while others belted out the oath with passion.

Despite the handful of those who had trouble complying with the instructions, the majority proudly made their way to the table for their chance to begin the new phase of their life in service to their country. During the ceremony, I was moved to see the different ethnicities coming together for the greater good of Afghanistan. It won’t be tomorrow, or even in the next 10 years in my opinion, that this country is completely self-sufficient, but seeing the determination in the eyes of the soldiers gives me hope that one day they will be.

Even with limited computer access and growing lines to use the computers, I plan to try and keep you updated on the events in just another day in my life.

What's your favorite food?

Afghan students study English at a school outside Mazar-e-Sharif.


RC North PAAT members video tape students for a video pen pal project between Afghan and American students.



One Afghan student is interviewed for the pen pal project in front of the school house.


An Afghan child's shoes tell the story of his trip back and forth to school down mud packed trails.

Master Sgt. DeRemer walks with Afghan students after filming the video pen pal project. They were eager to practice their English with American servicemembers.

After a productive trip to meet with the German Public Affairs office at a nearby base, we had an early start to our day as we headed out to film a video pen pal project with local school children. We took step one today of the Afghan National Army initiative to foster relations between Afghan and U.S. servicemembers’ children. Footage of the children in an English class, as well as, individual interviews will be packaged and sent to various American students around the world.

We were greeted in English by each of the students who were eager to share their newfound language with us. We watched and listened as they took turns reading sentences about telling time. One particular boy was very proud of his ability and spoke in a much louder voice when it was his turn to read.

After they finished their lesson, we stepped outside to film the individual interviews. One of the questions that we asked them was, “what is your favorite food?” I have to admit that up to the point of the loud talking young man, I felt like our interpreter was guiding their answers. However, with no coercion, the boy responded “meat.” My knee-jerk reaction was confusion – meat? Really?

Later, as I thought about his response, I realized that one; he was being genuinely honest with us. Two; he likes meat the most because like the things we like most, we don’t always get them when we want it - he liked meat because he didn’t get it on a regular basis.

His honesty reminded me of the reality people of Afghanistan face. It’s easy to get wrapped up in what I am doing here and the tasks that consume my time, but this short visit made me think about my being here. Providing for a better future in Afghanistan is our goal, and I hope in some way we can succeed – even if it only means that the boy’s family can provide meat for him more often.

Stay tuned for more adventures in just another day in my life.

Progress

Random soldier who stopped me to take his photo. This happens on a regular basis, the soldiers enjoy having their picture taken.

Jason, the new broadcaster on our team, sits about 30 feet up on the crumbly mud roof of an abandoned building that was once part of a Russian base.

Afghan soldiers hurry to the starting point of their training lane while practicing squad tactics.

Sgt. Dan Allinson and Lance Cpl. Matt Tune discuss possible changes to an Afghan Army training event.

An Afghan soldier rushes toward an enemy fighting position during a training exercise designed to teach squad tactics.

Yesterday I was able to link up with two British soldiers responsible for training Afghan National Army instructors while they held a class on squad tactics. Yes, the very same soldiers who also accomplished the 24-hour run. It’s amazing how networking happens sometimes and I was very thankful for the receptiveness to our tagging along. Their training event taught the ANA soldiers how to react to an enemy attack, which included attacking the enemy and then holding the position.

After a brief ride in an over occupied humvee, we arrived at training location where ANA soldiers were about to begin the practical exercise of their training. Jason, the new broadcaster on our advisory team, and I quickly got the lay of the land and were brought on top an abandoned building to watch the first iteration of the exercise. I found out that the mud buildings we were standing on were part of an old Russian forward operating base – wow, very surreal.

I didn’t stay on the rooftop long before heading down for some close-ups of the Afghan soldiers as they used their newfound skills to defeat a simulated enemy. Immediately, I noticed a distinct difference in the noise levels of the blanks fired from their AK-47 rifles and the blanks we used in our M4s at training – theirs are much louder! Later, I also found out that I should watch for instructors with flash bangs because having one go off a few feet behind me was extremely startling; a stunt that I’m sure was intentional.

The Afghan soldiers had been split into two groups, so we had the ability to watch both in two different scenarios. I was very impressed with all of the ANA instructors and their leadership, especially when one of them scolded a soldier and forced him to run down the lane and back with his rifle over his head. Listening to the British mentors talk about the Afghan soldiers’ progress, while interviewing them for a story, was a sign that we are making head way with the Afghan Army. Personally, I feel this country is a long way from some of the lofty goals I hear about, but, after watching the soldiers train, I realized that we were one step closer to helping create a self-sustaining Army.

Another great day in northern Afghanistan, keep checking back for stories from just another day in my life.

Acquaintances

Being deployed provides another perk to military life – meeting new people. I know that the civilian sector isn’t much different in this realm but there are a few unique differences to making friends in the military. To start with, meeting several people and then spending six months or more living, eating, working, etc, is not as common outside the military. Another distinctive aspect in a deployed scenario is that there are no familiar family members or friends to balance our new acquaintances against, which means that like it or lump it, they are all we’ve got.

This deployment hasn’t been without its share of new faces. From going to two separate pre-deployment training courses, where I made several new friends, to travelling companions, and now the people I work with and meet at my current location, I am always pleasantly surprised by those I get to know. I’m not sure if it’s the lack of closeness in a new environment or the needs of being a social creature, whatever the drive, I seem to be much more open to new friendships when deployed.

Over the past few days, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Specialist Lamar. Lamar is a medic who was called back to duty from his Inactive Ready Reserve status to deploy to Afghanistan. IRR is the time owed, after your active service commitment, to your respective branch of service; when you enlist for four years you are also committing to four years of IRR where you can be called back up from your civilian life to serve again. Lamar was a nurse during his time away from the Army and is now leaving Afghanistan to go back to that life.

Because of another IRR soldier working in my office, Lamar hung out with us while waiting for transportation out of the country. Lamar is a big guy, both in the physical sense and in his personality. Not your typical soldier, he immediately stood out because of his commanding stature and presence. Sure, Army guys can be loud and intimidating, but Lamar wasn’t the average Army type. Loud, yes, but not in the drop and give me 20 push-ups kind-of way. Big, yes, but not in the watch me bench-press a tank kind-of way. Lamar was a jovial, fun-loving civilian who happened to be in the Army.

During his last night here, Lamar sat and talked to a group of us gathered in our “only slightly warmer than outside” office. Yes, our heater does not do its job…which could be its own blog post all together. Anyway, Lamar had spent each evening entertaining us with photos, videos, stories, and even an audio recording of an hour-long firefight that his unit was involved in. On this last evening, it was a free-for-all of stories from his life that left us sore from laughter.

Lamar’s gift-for-gab was delivered in a monologue-like fashion equal to that of a comedian. Each story flowed into the next, laced with witty humor and side-splitting endings. Regardless of the topic, too include Afghan police being attacked by starfish and meeting a girl who materialized out of thin air, all of us were laughing out of our seats. No topic was safe and even the occasional story by someone else was quickly attacked and beaten with quick-witted jests. It was one of those “laugh so hard you cry” moments.

For a moment as we all sat there, we weren’t deployed; we weren’t dealing with the struggles of our daily events; we weren’t worrying about anything…we were friends.

Thanks Lamar!

Keep coming back to see what else might occur in just another day in my life.

Qala-i-Jangi

Completed my third mission within the last five days here in Afghanistan. Today’s journey took me to Qala-i-Jangi, a fort on the outskirts of Mazar-e-Sharif. Before I left Colorado, aside from returning home, I wanted only one thing during my time here, to visit Qala-i-Jangi. This fort has an important role in history for both America and Afghanistan.

In 2001, after the terrorist attacks in New York, a team of Special Forces was dropped off in the northern regions of Afghanistan with one mission – overthrow the Taliban. Their goal wasn’t to do the task themselves; instead they were to coordinate the efforts of the Northern Alliance – a rag-tag group of Afghan warlords and soldiers, basically a militia.

With the help of airpower, Special Forces helped the Afghans put the Taliban on the run and they eventually freed the city of Mazar-e-Sharif. Shortly after, and through a series of shady-deals, hundreds of Taliban were captured and taken as prisoners to Qala-i-Jangi. Most of the Taliban had not realized they were being held as prisoners and eventually they started an uprising within the walls of the fort.

On the day of the revolt, Mike Spann was within the southern courtyard of the fort. Spann was a former Marine and was currently serving as a CIA operative with the mission of tracking down Taliban leaders, more specifically – Osama bin Laden. News footage from on-scene reporters would later show Spann questioning prisoners, one of which was John Walker Lindh – an American born, California native. Shortly after the footage was taken, a grenade blast launched the uprising into the hell that would continue for several days. Spann was overtaken and killed, making him the first American casualty of the war on Afghan soil.

Qala-i-Jangi had once been a Russian base and stores of weapons and ammo still remained. Heavy-machine guns, rockets, mortars, grenades and rifles soon found their way into hands of the Taliban fighters. A ferocious battle played out within the confines of the fort over the coming days. Airstrikes and a determined Northern Alliance left the remaining Taliban fighters holed-up in the basement of a building known as the Pink House, named because of its pink exterior. For three days, and after shooting through basement windows, lighting oil on fire that had been poured in, and eventually flooding the basement, a defeated enemy finally emerged - beaten and broken. Of those, Lindh survived and was eventually tried and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

A memorial now stands in front of the Pink House in honor of Spann and his sacrifice that day. Standing in the courtyard, I couldn’t help but think of Spann’s wife and children and the loss they suffered. It has been more than nine years since his journey ended here and I now stand on that same soil facing my own journey - thankfully in a much more secure Afghanistan thanks to Spann and many other brave souls that followed.

Below is a brief glimpse of my trip today with the Afghan Route Clearing Company sent in to clear the fort of unexploded ordinance and other dangers that litter the courtyard.

One of the many weapons that sit rusting in the southern courtyard of the fort.

A metal storage container full of destroyed rifles and heavy-machine guns.

The Pink House with memorial to Mike Spann under the dome in front of the building.

View from one of the rooms inside the Pink House where a weapon of some sort has punctured the roof.

One of the basement windows where Afghan soldiers fired their weapons into and poured oil to ignite and try and force the Taliban fighters out.

Remains of weapons lay at the bottom of the stairway that led to the basement.

In the pitch-black basement of the Pink House, a flashlight illuminates a mortar fuse left behind on the dry, cracked floor that once housed the last surviving Taliban fighters.

Scorched walls reveal the attempts of Northern Alliance soldiers to force the Taliban from their stronghold.

From on top of the Pink House, neighboring buildings show the scarred walls from a fierce battle within the southern courtyard of the fort.

This battle-scarred building stands as a reminder of the Taliban uprising at Qala-i-Jangi.

Mortars excavated from a nearby crater wait for demolition.

A view from inside the ammo supply point that the Northern Alliance tried so desperately to destroy before the Taliban could gather more resources.

Mortar fuses seem to be everywhere you walked in the southern compound but were in abundance in the ammo supply point.

Another view of the mortar fuses in the ammo supply point.

More weapons excavated from a crater next to the ammo supply point.

As I wandered from one empty room to another, I would see many types of explosives, including this mortar, which looked in good condition.

Walking around the courtyard yielded many views of the fragmented mortars that were either fired intentionally or exploded when airstrikes found their mark.

This abandoned rocket looked like it was ready for immediate use.

After viewing the other photos above, the need for clearing teams such as this was self-evident.

The turret from a Russian tank lays on top of an outer wall as a reminder of the fog of war. The tank was being used by the Northern Alliance when a 2,000 lb bomb missed its mark and hit the northern tower of the fort. The turret was blown onto the wall where it still sits. Many Northern Alliance soldiers were killed along with many injured American Special Forces.

Today, several U.S. soldiers made the trip to see this historic place.

A view of the inscription on the memorial built in honor of Mike Spann.

Today was a good day in my life, keep coming back to see what might happen next.

Repetition

With so much time on my hands, I am forced to find ways of filling the groundhog days of my deployment. Yes, for my non-military family and friends, deployments are the perfect example of the Bill Murray classic – without the ability to change the outcome of the future. After a while you don’t even care what day of the week it is because it has zero influence on what you do that day. Occasionally something will break up the monotony but more often then not, I live like a programmed machine.

Wake up – regardless of the time; it’s the same routine of lying in bed thinking through my morning process. I will go through the steps of showering, shaving, remembering to grab a water bottle for brushing my teeth because we can’t use the tap water, and so on. Not sure why I do this but if it means making it to the bathroom without realizing I forgot my towel, then I can manage.

Breakfast – after completing the cleaning process, I head to the dining facility, pronounced dee-fak because of its acronym (DFAC), for the usual bowl of cereal, coffee, and an orange, which I take to the office to eat. I say bowl, but it’s actually the foil covered individual serving plastic container – usually Total Raisin Bran, but Special-K Red Berries is a close second.

Work – this is the part where there is some variety, typically in the amount of time we spend with the Afghans. Some days our hand is forced because of their priorities and other days we have to return to our office to get something done for them, regardless, it is the same routine.

Gym – after finishing with our Afghan friends, I typically head to the gym while everyone else hits the DFAC for lunch. My work out routine is built on a 5-on 1-off schedule but the only day that really matters is the off day because I get to eat guilt-free, and believe me – I do! Once I feel physically prepared to start my marathon training the routine will shift to a 5-on 2-off schedule to accommodate the longer runs and muscle recovery.

Work – yes, back to work to complete whatever project needs finishing or just to check my email for any new work that might need attention. This is about the time that I have to find creative ways of passing time until dinner: Facebook, blog posts, play with Dave’s video camera, or a quick stop visit to the “Free X” (a glorified closet, open to the entire camp, full of items either from care packages or that were purchased but not used – basically a way to pay it forward).

Dinner – my second meal of the day is usually some sort of salad made by shredding whatever the main dish is over some lettuce and topping that with some cheese from the sandwich buffet. Might not sound appeasing, but I have created some pretty tasty meals by simply putting stuff on lettuce. Truth be told, the food here is very good and even if I might not be in the mood for the selection of the day, I am rarely disappointed.

Evening – after dinner it is a complete free-for-all trying to get access to an open computer in the MWR building. I often strike out and retire early to my room for a movie…or two. Yes, movies in Afghanistan are a staple of my life in the evenings. Because I workout early in the day, I have more free time to play with at night; hence the movie watching. There is no shortage of movies or television shows in this country, which finishes out my day on a very relaxing note.

Zzzzzzzz and REPEAT

Despite the monotony of it all, I will continue to seek new and interesting ways of both passing the time and mixing things up a bit. Keep checking back to find out how I made it through just another day in my life.

Help for Heroes

So, a quick photo story to share the journey of two British soldiers who decided to complete a 24-hour treadmill run that they had organized to raise funds for the Help for Heroes fund.

Sgt. Dan Allison and Lance Cpl. Matthew Tune had set fliers out around the camp with pledge sheets for donations, as well as, create a donation website so others, not deployed, could help out as well.

I happened to be in the gym when they began the grueling challenge of taking turns running one hour at at time. I was very inspired by their will to complete such a daunting task and had a very enjoyable conversation with them before they began.


I made another stop in the gym later in the evening to offer encouragement and see how things were going. They were both pleased with their progress so far and really seemed prepared to finish with ease. When I went in the next day, Sgt. Allison was completing his final leg of his 12 runs.

Cpl. Tune had recently completed his 11th leg and resorted to sleeping on the treadmill despite the fact that they had brought a cot to sleep on. At this point the task had taken its toll on both runners.

Cpl. Tune was woken with 10 minutes before his 12th and final time on the treadmill in 24 hours. Support was given to them all night including movies, a projector, food, conversation, and even a statement that hid their time from them as they pounded away.

An announcement was made over the camp loud-speaker to encourage people to stop by and cheer the runners on to their finish. It was a great turn-out and their support was an obvious boost to the pair as they stepped out the final mile of their run. Sgt. Allison had since joined Cpl. Tune in the final minutes where the two completed their 24-hour journey to the cheering of coalition soldiers.

Between the two, they had ran 134 miles and raised more than $2,500. It was great to see such determination and gave all of us a sense that we can accomplish anything that we put our minds to. In a surprise ending, each of the runners was given a Georgia Guard Commendation Medal along with certificates of appreciation.

Stay tuned to see what else might happen in just another day of my life.

Acceptance

Afghan culture is obviously different from our own. One aspect that is most readily evident is the affection they show to one another. Seeing two men holding hands does not have the same connotation that it might in the U.S. As part of our cultural training, we were told about some of these differences to make us aware of the meaning behind them but it really is different when the rubber meets the road.

Immediately we saw these affections in the way they greet each other and in their social interactions. As we sit and talk with them it is not uncommon for them to sit almost on each other's lap. Initially I thought part of the reason was because of the small office they use and the lack of space created when four of us Americans come in. Later I saw that their perception of personal space, or their "bubble" as you might call it, is non-existent. While sitting next to each other they will often place their hands on each other's leg, again, something that would have a much different perception in America.

So, I took it as a sign of acceptance when we visited their office the other day and the major casually placed his hand on my leg. Truth be told, after 34 years of upbringing in our world of not entering someones bubble, it came as a surprise to be in such a predicament. I tried to remind myself that it is important, as we are spending time with the Afghans, that we embrace their cultural sensitivities, so I sat calmly - despite the fact that it wasn't exactly within my comfort zone. Later we all talked about it in the office and realized that this will only progress further as we spend more time with them and that it was good to have made such progress so quickly.

I will probably never have to share this behaviour in the U.S. and might never get completely used to the physical aspects of their culture, but I do embrace their trust in us. They have faith in our ability to teach them and they are more than willing to learn in order to stand on their own two feet. If their way of showing us this trust is a simple physical gesture, I can tolerate it in the spirit of our new friendship...even if it is uncomfortable.

Camp Confessions

As you wait in line at the store you hear the phone conversation from the person behind you. No, they have no intention of keeping their discussion a secret. Regardless of the topic, they are oblivious to the social taboo of sharing their dialogue. Without any other recourse, we are all drawn into the inevitable eavesdropping.

Being deployed is no break from this phenomenon but it does have a slightly different twist. My experiences come in the form of either sharing banks of phones or the occasional loud talker using one of the few video-messaging computers in the MWR building. Don’t be fooled though, it is truly the same experience.

While chatting on Facebook with my wife, I couldn’t ignore the gentleman behind me if I tried to. I felt as if I was listening to a soap opera as he refuted his wife or girlfriend’s claims of having another interest. At one point I actually wanted to hear the female’s responses, which would further infuriate the man to another decibel.

As I thought about it, I considered the numerous times I’ve had to sit and wait for an empty phone to use only to be drawn into someone’s discussion. From a simple “I love you” to unsettled disputes and the consistent money problems, I’ve heard it all. Sometimes sad but more often excited, these are the background noises of phone and computer facilities across deployed bases everywhere.

The taboo that comes with being in public, where you could choose to go somewhere else to finish your phone call, is absent when you have no other option. So, those of us deployed are often forced into sharing a laugh, planning return parties, or just pouring out our hearts in front of an audience.

One thing’s for certain, we all take the stage with pride when it’s our turn for a few minutes on the phone with family and friends…audience and all.

Keep checking back to see how things turn out in just another day of my life.

Down Time

My time here at Camp Spann is starting with a bit of free time. Our Afghan friends have travelled away for a week and we are left without anyone to train. So what do I do with my free time you ask?

As far as work is concerned, we have developed what we like to refer to as a fluid training plan. It seems that trips like this are common and we are often at the mercy of their schedule, so our plan will probably not pass the reality of our environment. Never the less, we have tried to create some structure to guide us. At this point, I am extremely eager to work alongside our new friends and to assist them with their duties.

Away from work, I have started my workout routine again. I have set a goal of running a marathon when I return to the states, so there will be plenty of treadmill time and running the .65 mile circumference of the camp in my future. For now I am easing into things with just a few miles a day followed by some strength training. I've also tried to get my diet under control because I was going hog-wild on the desserts and other treats that seem to accumulate in every office on this camp. All of those care packages from home are providing ample opportunities for me to fatten up, so here's to will power!

When I am not in the gym, I spend time waiting to use one of the dozen computers provided in the MWR tent. They are not fast and the Internet seems to have the speed of a dial-up connection, but I can usually check Facebook and update my blog without too much trouble. We only have two work computers that six of us have to share, so accessing my official email is sometimes difficult. Unfortunately, the government network has blocked any of the "fun" websites but it is another avenue of communication to family and friends, so I don't complain too much.

There is a separate game-room with a pool table, ping-pong table, and a couple TVs for playing video games. Typically, this room is very busy and loud, something I am not the most comfortable with, so I am not a regular customer just yet.

Without much else to do, I have been spending most evenings with a movie before falling asleep. I have some random ideas about how to use photography to help pass the time but I haven't committed to any single project just yet. One idea is to start a self-portrait series, which seems to be most promising at this point. I am fortunate enough to work with an Army Sgt. who shares the same passion, so I hope to learn from him before he leaves.

At this point, anything is possible and I am trying to think of other creative avenues to pursue. I even brought my graphite pencils and sketch paper to try and dabble a little more in drawing. Anything that helps to pass the time and keep my little brain occupied will be useful over the next six-months.

Keep checking back for progress on my quest to stay occupied and to hear a little more about another day in my life.

Tea Time

So, I left off in the middle of a tiresome journey to my final destination. I was fortunate enough to catch the first flight possible to Kabul, where a hot shower and comfy bed welcomed me. Our time at Kabul was filled with briefings on our mission. The powerpoint was short as our mission brief was more theoretical than practical.

My team's mission is to mentor the Afghan National Army 209th Corps Public Affairs Office. Basically, teach them writing, photography, video, and media relation skills. We are part of the second wave of training teams sent to each operational region in the country. Of note: this is an Air Force led operation. Along the way, we will also have a smaller role in mentoring the Afghan National Police as well but our primary focus is on our Army partners.

After our brief we caught a flight to Mazar e Sharif where we stayed at the German run Camp Marmal. I have to say that if I ever get the chance to go back and hang out for a day or two, I would do so willingly. They have such a great set-up at their camp that it almost seems like you are in a small European village. Complete with a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and great facilities, I found it hard to actually leave when our convoy finally arrived the next day.

A quick, bumpy ride later, I finally made it to Camp Mike Spann. I was amazed at how opposite my new location was to the German's camp. Everything here is only a stone's throw away from each other. I was given the grand tour and was extremely surprised to find it had only taken us about five minutes to complete our journey. Needless to say, this place is tiny without any of the amenities that have graced me along the road here.

My room consists of 6x10 area inside, what are affectionately known as, B-huts. I have a bed, make-shift desk, and wall locker. Nails protrude from the wall creating hanging areas for all of my gear and clothing. I hung a towel to block the light that remains on all hours of the day because my "wall" doesn't continue all the way to the ceiling. I was fortunate enough to have a power outlet in my area, which powers my laptop. There isn't any Internet outside our office or morale tent, so my laptop is quickly becoming a glorified movie screen.

The nearest bathroom/shower facility is at the end of my row of B-huts, but a port-a-potty nearby keeps me from making the journey all the way down in the middle of the night. You never realize how often you have to get out of bed to use the restroom in the middle of the night until you have to get fully dressed to go use it. Thankfully, it isn't so cold that I can't wear shorts for my short comfort break.

Today we ventured over to the Afghan base that we are attached to and met with our Afghan partners. Despite the lengthy courtship that we were told about, we quickly befriended our counterparts and were immediately showing family pictures and laughing over many cups of chai tea. We were even treated to lunch at their dining facility where I had some of my favorite rice from a trip to the country two years ago. I don't know what it is about the rice here, but I can't get enough of it. I wasn't so sure about the meat on my plate, but I sampled and pushed the rest around the plate enough to appear that I had eaten more than I actually did.

Overall, we had a very productive first meeting and I am looking forward to helping our new friends tell their own story to the media and the world.

Continue to check in on just another day in my life.

Slow Progress

As I type this post, it has been over a week since I left the U.S. Deploying has all sorts of adventures that await you as you do your time, and the most evident hurdle is always travel. Why you ask? Because travel is both the first and last thing you do, and hence, the most memorable. Not only is it memorable, it's a nightmare that wakes you in your sleep many months after the event has passed.

If you've ever tried to travel during inclement weather, you know the pains of thinking you are leaving only to be turned away at the last minute. Military travel uses that model as their preferred method of getting us into and out-of our deployed locations. Regardless of the fact that you know what's coming, the pain is never any easier to deal with.

To compound the issues of waiting for travel, which up to this point has taken a total of seven days just to make it part way, you have the fun that comes with waiting at each location. Since I have nothing else to do at 1 a.m. I will share some of these joys with you.

1. Living conditions in the transient tents: The norm for missing your flight results in the luxurious accommodations of a transient tent with hundreds of your closest friends. These perks include, but are not limited to, the complete lack of social graces, odors that are basically indescribable, long walks to the shower and bathroom facilities, and living out of a backpack for more days than you are packed for.

2.Emotional roller coaster: Trying to conquer the hurdle of travel tests every ounce of patience and people skills in your inventory. After dragging your five, less than light, bags to the terminal, it is an absolute morale crusher to find you are no longer able to board your flight due to weather or another unit with a higher priority. For those of you not in the military, you should count your infinite blessings that won't have to deal with the repetitive affects of this torture.

3. Free time: Who doesn't enjoy relaxing with nothing more to do than whatever pops into your mind? Well, I don't! Maintaining your sanity with endless hours in one location becomes a futile effort in expectation management. Typically, when you do find something that you assume will kill a few hours, you are dealt a serious blow when the activity only lasts a fraction of the expected time and was much less entertaining than you hoped it would be.

To sum it up, traveling, has been, and will be, the least favorite aspect of deploying. Thankfully, I have this blog to use as a sounding board so that I may keep my cool under pressure.

On second thought, I HATE IT...yep, HATE IT!!!!!!

Ahhh, now that feels much better.

See you next time on another day in my life.

New adventures

OK, I don't want to get into the habit of posting every other day because I realize this will be a trend I won't always be able to keep up, but with so much time on my hands, I am drawn to do something constructive with my time.

Since my last post I have made it as far as Manas AB, Kyrgyzstan. You probably won't find this on a map but you could find Bishkek, which is the capital and largest city. The base shares the city's airport and is now my temporary home while we await travel into Afghanistan. Our trip here brought us through Iceland, Germany, and Romania, yes - that is four countries in less than 24 hours. Unfortunately, we only got off the airplane in Germany but it was a welcome break after all that time on the aircraft.

Now that we are here, I am reminded how much I actually enjoy being at Manas. As far as transient bases go, this place is like comparing the Bellagio to a Motel 6. Despite the sleeping accommodations, this place has it all: wireless internet access, cafe, massage parlor, great food, fantastic gym...you definitely won't want much else when you're here. I am extremely jealous of everyone that works here, especially considering this location counts as a deployment for them.

Sometimes the amenities of a "super-base" are overlooked by their inhabitants but one trip outside your comfort zone to some of the Forward Operating Bases will make you appreciate your creature comforts. During my last deployment, I travelled all over Afghanistan and had a first-hand look at what some of my other brothers and sisters in arms have to endure. Let's just say, I really appreciate the times I have the pleasure of enjoying these indulgences.

So, what do I do with all of your free time and many options...mostly I just veg out. Relaxing in between the headaches of getting from one place to another is the one time I get to sit and gather my thoughts. While gathering my thoughts today, I realized that I am finally deploying - seems very surreal considering the rest of the drama I've had this deployment cycle.

Stay tuned for the next installment of another day in my life.

Heartbreaks and Headaches

I said goodbye today.

Saying goodbye is sometimes an awkward experience for me. I'm sure you are all familiar with the tearful farewells filled with deep sorrow. I recently experienced one of those when leaving Illinois - as healthy as it is, it isn't something you try to recreate everyday. Leaving my own family this morning was another of the awkward experiences however.

Despite the obvious hurt that comes with a parting of ways, I am always filled with the desire to be the strength for my family. It is all a lie! Watching my wife fight back the tears, probably because she too wants to be strong for the children, is a gut wrenching experience. I held her. Looking at my daughter's desperate eyes, I can see she knows the imminent separation is at hand. I smile, make a joke, and hide the pain. My son seems to wear the impregnable attitude of a teenager with ease, but I know that may be what I miss the most about him. We both smile. I lied by not wearing my sadness with honor. For the record, my heart broke this morning and I hate it.

As if I needed something to keep my mind occupied, I was quickly re-introduced to the adventures of deploying. For my non-military family and friends, deploying is like watching "Alice in Wonderland" - anything is possible. This deployment began with the cancellation of prior deployments, required training, and multiple date changes.

The hits didn't stop there, however, because today my guns didn't make one of my connecting flights. This caused a lengthy stay at the terminal waiting for the next flight, just a "few" hours later (baggage claim people speak in a weird time language). The airline was more than gracious with their $7 dinner comp, which almost covered half my dinner at the only open restaurant.

Not to be outdone, the military flight planners had overbooked my flight out in the morning. I was told I could keep "one bag of importance" and the others would "find me" (military airport workers speak in a weird "we act like we care" language). After trying to condense my two bags into one and saying the inevitable goodbye to the bag that I don't believe I will ever see again, I finally made it to the hotel. Staying in the hotel is, in itself, an adventure because it's time away from family that seems completely unnecessary.

Instead of grieving, I thought I would use my blog as a therapeutic tool. I fear this may happen frequently over my time away, so be prepared for the occasional vent, rant, whine, complaint, who knows - I might even say something nice every now and then. Stay tuned to see how the other flights and convoys that will bring me to my final destination go...I am betting on many more adventures. : )