Sunday, December 26, 2010
Sadness in Kandahar
For those of you that read my blog last night, say a prayer for those lost in the attack. We found out this morning that we had eight casualties last night in our camp. People we know. There will be a ceremony on the tarmac this morning to honor them. It is a sad epilogue to such a special day. There will be sadness for many that will haunt their Christmases to come.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas in Kandahar
You work with people 12 - 15 hours a day, but it's hard to get to really know them. Everyone is focused on their little piece of the support effort for our troops. And at the end of the day, you're just too tired to socialize. But still, you wonder what really makes their hearts beat. They are all different, it seems. From different parts of America and far beyond. Diverse, yet on the same mission. Maybe driven by some of the same motivations, hopes, dreams, and even fears that dwell in me.
And then, it's Christmas. But, it's a working day in Afghanistan. The troops don't get a day off, and neither do we. But overnight, the office has undergone a metamorphosis. Christmas trees, lights, decorations, the smell of fresh bread baking, and signs of preparations for an honest to goodness Christmas feast. Many of the folks that work there have, with the help of their families and friends back in the world, planned well a special gift for us all. A taste of home, a familiar scent of a favorite food, a moment to share the incredible reason for this day with others. There is every kind of special treat here. From turkey to honey-baked ham (how did they get that here??), to dressings, dozens of deserts, cranberry sauce, and even "faux" champagne. And we read the Christmas story, and workmates became friends, and we all shared a special connection. But, this is Afghanistan, and our friends outside the wire just couldn't resist adding a little excitement to our Christmas celebration.
The sirens blasted and the rockets fell very close to our area. We followed protocol and collected our gear and headed quickly for the bunkers. But not to be denied the celebration and joy of the anniversary of our Savior's birth, the Christmas carols began softly and increased in volume to a crescendo while we waited for the "all clear". The "wonder of His love" still echoes in my heart and ears. And the "wonder of His love" brought these people, these oh so different, but so connected in His love people, together. There was little fear. We felt safe and happy and joyful in His praise. God is good, all the time.
So Christmas this year has been different. I have never missed someone so much in my life as I do my family. It's an empty, hollow feeling. Talking to Vickie and Libby on skype is great, but I can't touch or hug or kiss them. And I want to so badly. But somehow, God knew a way to fill me up in a way I would never have imagined. Isn't it funny how He can do that. My gift this year is a reminder to have faith. Trust God. Really,,, trust God.
And thanks to all of you for looking out for Vickie and Libby. They have truly experienced friendship from every direction. And as this season passes, remember that there are many young men and women in harm's way, doing their part to insure that folks back home can live how they live; without fear, with choice, and in freedom. Next time you see the American Flag...pause for a moment...and think a bit of those who have sacrificed that it is still there, a quiet sentry.
Merry Christmas everyone...
And then, it's Christmas. But, it's a working day in Afghanistan. The troops don't get a day off, and neither do we. But overnight, the office has undergone a metamorphosis. Christmas trees, lights, decorations, the smell of fresh bread baking, and signs of preparations for an honest to goodness Christmas feast. Many of the folks that work there have, with the help of their families and friends back in the world, planned well a special gift for us all. A taste of home, a familiar scent of a favorite food, a moment to share the incredible reason for this day with others. There is every kind of special treat here. From turkey to honey-baked ham (how did they get that here??), to dressings, dozens of deserts, cranberry sauce, and even "faux" champagne. And we read the Christmas story, and workmates became friends, and we all shared a special connection. But, this is Afghanistan, and our friends outside the wire just couldn't resist adding a little excitement to our Christmas celebration.
The sirens blasted and the rockets fell very close to our area. We followed protocol and collected our gear and headed quickly for the bunkers. But not to be denied the celebration and joy of the anniversary of our Savior's birth, the Christmas carols began softly and increased in volume to a crescendo while we waited for the "all clear". The "wonder of His love" still echoes in my heart and ears. And the "wonder of His love" brought these people, these oh so different, but so connected in His love people, together. There was little fear. We felt safe and happy and joyful in His praise. God is good, all the time.
So Christmas this year has been different. I have never missed someone so much in my life as I do my family. It's an empty, hollow feeling. Talking to Vickie and Libby on skype is great, but I can't touch or hug or kiss them. And I want to so badly. But somehow, God knew a way to fill me up in a way I would never have imagined. Isn't it funny how He can do that. My gift this year is a reminder to have faith. Trust God. Really,,, trust God.
And thanks to all of you for looking out for Vickie and Libby. They have truly experienced friendship from every direction. And as this season passes, remember that there are many young men and women in harm's way, doing their part to insure that folks back home can live how they live; without fear, with choice, and in freedom. Next time you see the American Flag...pause for a moment...and think a bit of those who have sacrificed that it is still there, a quiet sentry.
Merry Christmas everyone...
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Settlin' In
If you've ever doubted the design expertise of our Maker, plan a visit to the Forward Operating Bases in southern and eastern Afghanistan. The adaptability of humankind to change, be it the natural environment, emotional challenge, geographic and weather severity, loneliness, work stress, sleep deprivation, or solitude, somehow we find a way to celebrate the gift of life and the wonder of this world. Here in southern Afghanistan, you literally are compelled to view the world through a translucent, hazy, dust-filled lens. Clarity of vision is an oxymoron when applied to any circumstance or experience here. It seems that every statement of fact or opinion is followed by..."but, in Afghanistan you can't".....
But the victories over day to day challenges here are myriad and expected and each "win" strengthens your resolve and contributes to your adaptability and confidence. Being a witness to the ability of men and women to excel, despite conditions that are literally indescribable, is fuel for the soul. These are some of the things I love about being here. And all of us here are looking for something positive to take away from the experience.
The largest base in the south is Kandahar, a NATO base with troops and support mechanisms from a couple dozen countries. It's an international place governed by NATO, not the U.S. And, we're in a Muslim country and obey their laws. That's right...no beer, wine, or, ever more difficult to accept...no Margueritas!! Kandahar is the second largest air operations center behind Bagram Airfield outside of Kabul. The airfield is busy 24/7 and helps you recognize that outside the wire is a dangerous place to be...particularly for the bad guys. Drones are flying constantly, as are helicopter and jet close air support for the ground troops.
Living conditions aren't that bad. Most of us live in hooches that are about 8'x9', or in tents that sleep 8 guys...or ladies. There are more women here than you might expect, both troops and support services. There are D-Facs (Dining facilities acronym) on each base and, while the food at Kandahar is fairly bad, the food at the FOBs is pretty darn good.
The company I work for, DynCorp International, provides every version of support for the war effort. The concept is simple, the Marine Corps, Navy, Army and Air Force supply the fighting men and women, and DynCorp does everything else. From construction, to operations management, to logistics, to food water supply, transportation, security, laundry, roads maintenance, waste management...everything. Kinda like running a whole bunch of small towns. And that leaves the military to do their thing and utilize more manpower in the field. Kinda makes sense. Privatizing the war is what they call it. I originally thought it sounded a bit nuts...but I've changed my mind. We've got a lot of room for improvement, but the neat thing about private companies is that you are more agile and able to adapt on the fly that the government can.
I guess you can tell that I'm settlin' in. Got my routine...get up at 0500, shower, shave, skype my family..(I'm 9.5 hours ahead of you guys..10.5 central time hours), be at work by 0600, work till 8 or 9 pm every day....every day....every day...no weekends, no sick time, no holidays...It would be impossible to not be in a routine.
I miss you all...counting the days already to my first "leave" in April. And thanks for the emails!! They matter when you're so isolated. Kinda like a lifeline to reality. And I know I promised pictures....they're coming. There are a lot of restrictions on pics and I really don't know the "laws" yet in that regard. My good friend Lt.Col. Farrell is on R and R in Israel with his family right now, but when he returns, I'll find out what the limitations really are. Thanks for following! Leave messages...ask questions...I'll do what I can.
But the victories over day to day challenges here are myriad and expected and each "win" strengthens your resolve and contributes to your adaptability and confidence. Being a witness to the ability of men and women to excel, despite conditions that are literally indescribable, is fuel for the soul. These are some of the things I love about being here. And all of us here are looking for something positive to take away from the experience.
The largest base in the south is Kandahar, a NATO base with troops and support mechanisms from a couple dozen countries. It's an international place governed by NATO, not the U.S. And, we're in a Muslim country and obey their laws. That's right...no beer, wine, or, ever more difficult to accept...no Margueritas!! Kandahar is the second largest air operations center behind Bagram Airfield outside of Kabul. The airfield is busy 24/7 and helps you recognize that outside the wire is a dangerous place to be...particularly for the bad guys. Drones are flying constantly, as are helicopter and jet close air support for the ground troops.
Living conditions aren't that bad. Most of us live in hooches that are about 8'x9', or in tents that sleep 8 guys...or ladies. There are more women here than you might expect, both troops and support services. There are D-Facs (Dining facilities acronym) on each base and, while the food at Kandahar is fairly bad, the food at the FOBs is pretty darn good.
The company I work for, DynCorp International, provides every version of support for the war effort. The concept is simple, the Marine Corps, Navy, Army and Air Force supply the fighting men and women, and DynCorp does everything else. From construction, to operations management, to logistics, to food water supply, transportation, security, laundry, roads maintenance, waste management...everything. Kinda like running a whole bunch of small towns. And that leaves the military to do their thing and utilize more manpower in the field. Kinda makes sense. Privatizing the war is what they call it. I originally thought it sounded a bit nuts...but I've changed my mind. We've got a lot of room for improvement, but the neat thing about private companies is that you are more agile and able to adapt on the fly that the government can.
I guess you can tell that I'm settlin' in. Got my routine...get up at 0500, shower, shave, skype my family..(I'm 9.5 hours ahead of you guys..10.5 central time hours), be at work by 0600, work till 8 or 9 pm every day....every day....every day...no weekends, no sick time, no holidays...It would be impossible to not be in a routine.
I miss you all...counting the days already to my first "leave" in April. And thanks for the emails!! They matter when you're so isolated. Kinda like a lifeline to reality. And I know I promised pictures....they're coming. There are a lot of restrictions on pics and I really don't know the "laws" yet in that regard. My good friend Lt.Col. Farrell is on R and R in Israel with his family right now, but when he returns, I'll find out what the limitations really are. Thanks for following! Leave messages...ask questions...I'll do what I can.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Day one, Kandahar
Family and friends,
Many of you know that I've taken a new position with a company that contracts with and supports the Army and Marine Corps in the southern and eastern portions of Afghanistan. After a week of training and preparation, I arrived in Kandahar, a Nato run base, to begin at least a year of work in a part of the world that, even with pictures, is hard to describe. Security is exceptionally tight in a war zone and until tomorrow, when I'm presented with my credentials, cameras are forbidden.
I feel like I've landed on the moon. The stark and barren landscape, devoid of trees, disintegrates to dust with even the suggestion of a breeze. Every inch of every thing is covered in a thin coat of the pervasive, relentless, eye burning, throat clogging dust. From the air, southern Afghanistan and Pakistan appear to be much like an empty ocean, with the fingerprints of the tides of days long gone painting a beautiful seascape without the sea. It's brown, and tan, and grey and most of all, empty. For two hours we flew over this disputed terrain wondering, "who would live here on purpose"?
And then we reached Kandahar Airfield and landed amidst the collection of NATO and US aircraft, thousands of armed troops, and stopped in front of the flagpole sadly flying Old Glory only half way up. A grim reminder of the cost of freedom. More troops passed today.
The inprocessing was fairly simple and I was met by two new colleagues who spared me what would have been several additional hours of hurrying and waiting. Mike Holmes, a veteran of 6 years in Iraq and a year and a half here, was assigned the job to plug me in. He introduced me to the entire LOPCAP staff at Camp Hicks, where I will be living and working for quite a while. He then brought me to billeting for assignment of my quarters and meal card. And when challenged, he made sure I got a ground level living unit that will work fine. Pictures coming soon. Two of the staff took me to the D-Fac (Dining Facility) for chow and introduced me around a bit more. Tomorrow will be spent in orientation and getting to know protocols and operating procedures and being issued the appropriate identification and badging to assure that you aren't arrested. I get a chance to dive into work. The day starts at 0600 and ends at 1900 (7:00) with an hour break for lunch. The shower is only about 100 feet away and the men's room is about 250'. Execpt for figuring out those cold nights when you just got to go, I think I'm good to go.
The air operations here go on constantly and bring to life the news reports of close air support, predator vigilance, and the focus of our guys. I closely surveyed the faces and demeanor of the fighitng men while sharing the evening meal. You would all be amazed and strenghtened in heart to see our soldiers in the evironment for which they train every day. They are strong, intense, bonded together by the challenges and suffering they've endured. And, with their rifles and sidearms slung over their back or holstered to their thighs while they ate, they represented some of the best this country has to offer. Volunteers every one. And they spend most of their time outside the wire in harm's way. But you'd never know it from watching them.
I haven't even been here a day yet. I won't deny that my first steps on this soil were filled with trepidation and second thoughts. But after spending time with the team and the troops, I am good to go and hope I can start contributing in a hurry. I miss my Vickie and Libby more than I can explain, and I feel so lucky that they support me. Thank God for Skype and the internet. I was blessed with many prayers for safe travel and some great literature from my Mississippi and Florida buddies and do express my sincere appreciation. God will be my pilot through this as in all things. I will do my best to keep you all updated and when I'm allowed I will take and send pictures.
Until later,
Rick
Many of you know that I've taken a new position with a company that contracts with and supports the Army and Marine Corps in the southern and eastern portions of Afghanistan. After a week of training and preparation, I arrived in Kandahar, a Nato run base, to begin at least a year of work in a part of the world that, even with pictures, is hard to describe. Security is exceptionally tight in a war zone and until tomorrow, when I'm presented with my credentials, cameras are forbidden.
I feel like I've landed on the moon. The stark and barren landscape, devoid of trees, disintegrates to dust with even the suggestion of a breeze. Every inch of every thing is covered in a thin coat of the pervasive, relentless, eye burning, throat clogging dust. From the air, southern Afghanistan and Pakistan appear to be much like an empty ocean, with the fingerprints of the tides of days long gone painting a beautiful seascape without the sea. It's brown, and tan, and grey and most of all, empty. For two hours we flew over this disputed terrain wondering, "who would live here on purpose"?
And then we reached Kandahar Airfield and landed amidst the collection of NATO and US aircraft, thousands of armed troops, and stopped in front of the flagpole sadly flying Old Glory only half way up. A grim reminder of the cost of freedom. More troops passed today.
The inprocessing was fairly simple and I was met by two new colleagues who spared me what would have been several additional hours of hurrying and waiting. Mike Holmes, a veteran of 6 years in Iraq and a year and a half here, was assigned the job to plug me in. He introduced me to the entire LOPCAP staff at Camp Hicks, where I will be living and working for quite a while. He then brought me to billeting for assignment of my quarters and meal card. And when challenged, he made sure I got a ground level living unit that will work fine. Pictures coming soon. Two of the staff took me to the D-Fac (Dining Facility) for chow and introduced me around a bit more. Tomorrow will be spent in orientation and getting to know protocols and operating procedures and being issued the appropriate identification and badging to assure that you aren't arrested. I get a chance to dive into work. The day starts at 0600 and ends at 1900 (7:00) with an hour break for lunch. The shower is only about 100 feet away and the men's room is about 250'. Execpt for figuring out those cold nights when you just got to go, I think I'm good to go.
The air operations here go on constantly and bring to life the news reports of close air support, predator vigilance, and the focus of our guys. I closely surveyed the faces and demeanor of the fighitng men while sharing the evening meal. You would all be amazed and strenghtened in heart to see our soldiers in the evironment for which they train every day. They are strong, intense, bonded together by the challenges and suffering they've endured. And, with their rifles and sidearms slung over their back or holstered to their thighs while they ate, they represented some of the best this country has to offer. Volunteers every one. And they spend most of their time outside the wire in harm's way. But you'd never know it from watching them.
I haven't even been here a day yet. I won't deny that my first steps on this soil were filled with trepidation and second thoughts. But after spending time with the team and the troops, I am good to go and hope I can start contributing in a hurry. I miss my Vickie and Libby more than I can explain, and I feel so lucky that they support me. Thank God for Skype and the internet. I was blessed with many prayers for safe travel and some great literature from my Mississippi and Florida buddies and do express my sincere appreciation. God will be my pilot through this as in all things. I will do my best to keep you all updated and when I'm allowed I will take and send pictures.
Until later,
Rick
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
