Thanks for supporting us, the military. (Finally Home!)

[ZoEd]

Got a ton of things to do before taking off in two weeks so my time on ES is all but over. Got to spend every waking moment with the wife and kids since it will be seven months before seeing them again. Just got back from a Disneyland Adventure with a short stop by Sea World; first vacation I've been able to take with my Kids so it was pretty special. Speaking of special I've got a little story for ya'll.

Being that Sea World is an Anheiser Busch park I was able to take advantage of the Hero Salute they have going so my family and I entered for free. Well, right before the Shamu show they had a little piece on the troops and asked if there were any in the stands, vets or active, to please stand up. When we did the place erupted with applause and cheers. Wow, what a wonderful feeling. At a time when the war is so unpopular it was an amazing moment for me as well as my wife. It helped her realize how appreciated my service to this country really is. It was awesome to see how proud she was; it was the first time of seen tears of joy like that since my Dad dropped me at Dulles 17 years ago when I left for my first tour in Germany.

So that brings me to the point of this thread. There are times on this board when things get pretty heated over the war. People say some pretty harsh things to one another and some people are so passionate about their beliefs. (Mass, Chom, Sarge, AFC, JMS, HH, to name a few) There have been incidents where people have stepped over the line IMO and made comments that I found pretty insulting towards the troops but for the most part the support for us is overwhelming. The point has been made repeatedly that not supporting the war doesn't necessarily mean not supporting the troops. It's taken me several months and hundreds of threads to see that and all though some use that phrase as a scapegoat statement most here believe it. I'm going to miss this place. :(

That being said, I want to personally say thank you to my ES family for your support and well wishes. People always say the troops don't get thanked enough but I want you to know here at ES I hear it all the time and it means a lot. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you. God Bless you all and I'll try to stay in the loop while I'm gone. :cheers:

[Thanos]

Good luck and God speed

[Teller]

I've got tears welling up now. Thanks ya ***hole. ;)


ZoEd, there are a handful of things that transcend everything else to most Americans, and especially to those of us who wore the uniform. Surely I don't have to tell you what God, family and country are all about. You live those things everyday.

Family has a couple of different meanings to me these days. Of course, I've got my wife and two beautiful daughters. They are the truest and most meaningful definition of family. But anyone who says our ES family isn't something that is VERY real is just crazy.

The way I look at it, I have lots of little brothers (and sisters) here. They're the people I pick on, even make fun of sometimes, and everything is OK. But you know what? Let someone from the outside do the same thing, and I'm all over them. You know what I mean.

I've also got a couple of surrogate moms and dads here. The people who have been there and done that. The people that have been MY shoulder to lean on. And some of my best friends here have played multiple roles. I love them all for it.

Well, now it's our turn to be here for you. Know that you have our full faith and support in everything that you do. Know that you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. And know that if you need ANYTHING, you only need to drop me a PM.

I'll miss you, my friend. Hopefully you'll be able to get online once in a while during your tour and at least let us know you're OK.

God bless you and your family, ZoEd. Thank you for your selfless service.

[Park City Skins]

No. Thankyou ZoEd for your service to this country and that which you will be doing soon. Thoughts and prayers to you and yours during this time. Take care over there and we'll save you a seat.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/jayman42/unity3.jpg

[SkinsOrlando]

ZoEd,

Thank you for serving our country, thank you for protecting my families and everyone elses freedom. Thank you for all that you have already done and will accomplish in the future. For on your back you carry the dream and dignity that is the United States of America and that can never be repaid and words can not describe my appreciation for this. Take care and God speed, you and your family are in my prayers.

[Jumbo]

I'm glad that you feel you've received and learned good things on ES. I appreciate all the good things you contribute to this forum. And I am very grateful for your service.

Stay sharp, brother Z.

[twa]

Ya'll are welcome ,and thanks and best wishes to you and your family till you meet again. The example of your wife's appreciation shows it is not just the troops that serve/sacrifice. :cheers:

[REDSKINZ-RIDEORDIE]

Thank You for defending us over there. Good Luck, Godspeed, and kick ass over there.

[Major Harris]

zoed, thanks for serving our country. you represent jefferson county well. good luck and god bless. :cheers:

[ZoEd]

The responses to this thread are a perfect example of the commraderie and class of ES members. If I were more eloquent I would put my appreciation into words but us hillbillies can only do so much. :D Again thank you all.

HH and Major, when I get back out to West By God we'll have to get together for some ice cold beverages. :cheers:

[Tarhog]

Watch your six Zoed, and anyone else going into harm's way. We're proud of every one of you guys :cheers:

[d0ublestr0ker0ll]

Thank you so much and good luck. Safety first my friend. Your family loves you. Kick the **** out of anything trying to stop you from your round-trip.

[Teller]

The responses to this thread are a perfect example of the commraderie and class of ES members. If I were more eloquent I would put my appreciation into words but us hillbillies can only do so much. :D Again thank you all.

HH and Major, when I get back out to West By God we'll have to get together for some ice cold beverages. :cheers:

I'll consider that a promise. The least Maj and I could do is take you out for a night on the town when you get back to the WV.

(Maj, do we have any towns out here in the sticks?) ;)

[allsup]

ZoEd, on behalf of what you do for my 11 year old daughter and my 4 year old grandson-I thank you!!

I also would like to thank your family for the sacrifies they make.

Good luck and Godspeed.

[JMS]

I haven't agreed with this President, the way the wars are being prioritized and pursued, nor some of your arguments for the former. Especially on New Years eve where our discussion got heated. I would like to apologize for that. I appreciate your service and you and your families sacrifices. Stay safe and we hope to hear from you again in a few months.

[ZoEd]

I haven't agreed with this President, the way the wars are being prioritized and pursued, nor some of your arguments for the former. Especially on New Years eve where our discussion got heated. I would like to apologize for that. I appreciate your service and you and your families sacrifices. Stay safe and we hope to hear from you again in a few months.

No apology needed JMS, we can always agree to disagree that's the beauty of the ES family. I'll try to send back some "real" information about what's going on over there so you can take it into consideration as well when making your arguements. :cheers:

[Air Force Cane]

http://www.nellis.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-060725-019.jpg


Oorah Nellis AFB!! Good luck and g-d speed. By the way- what does ZoEd stand for? :)

[Henry]

Give 'em hell, ZoEd. Don't doubt for a second that you have 50,000 cheerleaders over here.

[JMac]

Zoed,

Thank you for being the man you are and thank you for your service. I cannot wait to read another post from you, one that says "Your Back".

God Bless YOU and YOUR family!

[tizzod]

Give 'em hell, ZoEd. Don't doubt for a second that you have 50,000 cheerleaders over here.

Damn right.

:cheers:

[Mr. S]

good luck. I've always been opposed to the war, but never against the troops. I think people who hate the troops just step over the line. Anyways, hope you and your fellow soldiers can return safely and soon.

[rdsknbill]

Zoed. Thank you for your service to this great country.

[afparent]

I wore that uniform for 24 years and even with all the bad press about the war, our men and women in uniform are still my heroes!!!

[jbooma]

Thanks for everything you do and have a safe return :cheers:

[headexplode]

I've not had the chance to have a discussion with you, but your words are very well-received and I wish you all the luck and I thank you for doing the things I wouldn't have the courage to.

[Sarge]

It's weird, but now it's my turn to say "Thanks for your service"

Stay low over there bud. If you need anything, let me know

[cmorina69]

Good luck, stay safe, you are far braver than most people somthing to be admired by all.

[grhqofb5]

Good luck, stay safe. There's a lot of people back here who support our forces with all our hearts. :point2sky

[28rdsknsfn28]

Most places have day rooms and/or internet cafes over there. Find one and let us know how you are. Keep your head down and stay safe.

[REDSKINZ-RIDEORDIE]

........I've always been opposed to the war, but never against the troops......

Definetly.

[ZoEd]

http://www.nellis.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-060725-019.jpg


Oorah Nellis AFB!! Good luck and g-d speed. By the way- what does ZoEd stand for? :)

Zo for Zoe and Ed for Eden; it's my daughters name. Got any good intel on Baghram for me? :D

[Predicto]

Thank you for your dedication to our country, sir.

[Air Force Cane]

Your unclassified and open sourced internet SitRep:



In August 2002 the 200th/201st Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron arrived at Bagram to construct housing facilities for Air Force personnel and to repair the airfields runways. Environmental conditions, bombs, small munitions and lack of care and maintenance have contributed to significant runway damage. Only one side of the 180-foot-wide runway here is being used while Red Horse repairs the other side. It is not uncommon to conduct rapid repair patches on the active runway because of heavy aircraft and high operations tempo.

Runway repair was a Herculean effort, and when all is said and done, approximately 2,500 cubic yards of concrete were used. There are roughly 12,000 11 by 13 foot slabs that make up the runway. Each slab takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to repair. The RED HORSE squadron will be repairing some 500 slabs.



As of late September 2002, tents were still being constructed and built up in the Coalition Task Force 82nd ABN Division Compound at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. The tents are to house soldiers working and living in the compound area and tents were scheduled to be finished and moved in before the winter season rolled around. The constructing and building of the tents are part of ongoing projects at Bagram Airfield designed to better the conditions for soldiers deployed there.

According to an October 2003 AFPS story (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2003/10/mil-031023-afps03.htm), airmen stationed at Bagram started moving from their living quarter tents into semi-permanent wooden structures called B-huts, designed to last three to four years. After that, military operations are expected to move to the other side of the runway, where more permanent structures will be put up. These semi-permanent timber structures are replacing our tents which have exceeded their life expectancy in this harsh environment.

While the eight-section temper tents being replaced held 16 to 24 airmen, the new B-huts hold eight occupants, enabling more personal living space. Because of space limitation in Bagram's Air Force Village, plans called for some airmen to be double bunked temporarily to empty some tents to make room for hut construction. Construction of the huts was being contracted out to local workers. The B-huts' design is upgraded from that of those used by the Army and feature larger living quarters with higher walls and screened windows.

By November 2003 B-huts were replacing the standard shelter option for troops. They were going up everywhere on Bagram making life a little more comfortable for coalition troops supporting Operation Enduring Freedom here at Bagram Air Base. There were several hundred, with plans to build close to 800 of them. The plans were to have nearly 1,200 structures built by 2006, but completion of the project was expected much earlier; possibly by July 2004.

The largest amount of B-huts were built at the old Italian camp which was for the Marines. There were e some going up in aviation, coalition forces areas; the Air Force got a good bit of them and Camp Blackjack had 40 of them. Construction pace was quick, and workers completed approximately eight homes every two weeks. The increased number of B-huts not only provided a change for US troops. The new structures also appeared in housing areas of coalition troops and civilian employees as well. Coalition troops have them. Brown and Root personnel have them and actually there is one whole area called Contractor Village which consists of B-hut structures.

The increased construction fell under US Central Command standards of temporary housing and allowed for the building of B-huts on base, not to show permanence, but to raise the standard for troops serving here. The wooden structures have no concrete foundation thus not considered permanent housing, just an upgrade from the tents, the only option Bagram personnel and troops had seen previously. The small homes offer troops protection from environmental conditions including wind, snow, sand and cold. They offer a nice place to stay and are an improvement from the tent. They have installation, electric, walls and ceilings. It’s a lot warmer in the winter and in the summer it’s a lot cooler. They don’t get the wind and they are a lot quieter. On average, B-huts house up to eight people, as does the majority housing option, the tent. But with the B-hut comes a little more breathing room. Most of the tents are 16 by 32 feet. Where these B-huts are 18 by 36 feet. B-huts are a welcomed addition to housing on Bagram and personnel in charge of creating the structures said they are excited to give people working here better housing. The facilities the Corps of Engineers are building at Bagram Air Force Base as well as other U.S. operational bases in Afghanistan are semi-permanent structures. Buildings which are constructed using more permanent materials such as cement blocks and provide a higher level of force protection than wooden or other less permanent types of construction. Cement blocks and concrete are also locally available while lumber or other prefabricated structures must be brought in from outside the region. Using locally available materials saves transportation costs and make these brick and mortar facilities close in price to less permanent types of facilities.

[ZoEd]

Your unclassified and open sourced internet SitRep:



In August 2002 the 200th/201st Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron arrived at Bagram to construct housing facilities for Air Force personnel and to repair the airfields runways. Environmental conditions, bombs, small munitions and lack of care and maintenance have contributed to significant runway damage. Only one side of the 180-foot-wide runway here is being used while Red Horse repairs the other side. It is not uncommon to conduct rapid repair patches on the active runway because of heavy aircraft and high operations tempo.

Runway repair was a Herculean effort, and when all is said and done, approximately 2,500 cubic yards of concrete were used. There are roughly 12,000 11 by 13 foot slabs that make up the runway. Each slab takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to repair. The RED HORSE squadron will be repairing some 500 slabs.



As of late September 2002, tents were still being constructed and built up in the Coalition Task Force 82nd ABN Division Compound at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. The tents are to house soldiers working and living in the compound area and tents were scheduled to be finished and moved in before the winter season rolled around. The constructing and building of the tents are part of ongoing projects at Bagram Airfield designed to better the conditions for soldiers deployed there.

According to an October 2003 AFPS story (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2003/10/mil-031023-afps03.htm), airmen stationed at Bagram started moving from their living quarter tents into semi-permanent wooden structures called B-huts, designed to last three to four years. After that, military operations are expected to move to the other side of the runway, where more permanent structures will be put up. These semi-permanent timber structures are replacing our tents which have exceeded their life expectancy in this harsh environment.

While the eight-section temper tents being replaced held 16 to 24 airmen, the new B-huts hold eight occupants, enabling more personal living space. Because of space limitation in Bagram's Air Force Village, plans called for some airmen to be double bunked temporarily to empty some tents to make room for hut construction. Construction of the huts was being contracted out to local workers. The B-huts' design is upgraded from that of those used by the Army and feature larger living quarters with higher walls and screened windows.

By November 2003 B-huts were replacing the standard shelter option for troops. They were going up everywhere on Bagram making life a little more comfortable for coalition troops supporting Operation Enduring Freedom here at Bagram Air Base. There were several hundred, with plans to build close to 800 of them. The plans were to have nearly 1,200 structures built by 2006, but completion of the project was expected much earlier; possibly by July 2004.

The largest amount of B-huts were built at the old Italian camp which was for the Marines. There were e some going up in aviation, coalition forces areas; the Air Force got a good bit of them and Camp Blackjack had 40 of them. Construction pace was quick, and workers completed approximately eight homes every two weeks. The increased number of B-huts not only provided a change for US troops. The new structures also appeared in housing areas of coalition troops and civilian employees as well. Coalition troops have them. Brown and Root personnel have them and actually there is one whole area called Contractor Village which consists of B-hut structures.

The increased construction fell under US Central Command standards of temporary housing and allowed for the building of B-huts on base, not to show permanence, but to raise the standard for troops serving here. The wooden structures have no concrete foundation thus not considered permanent housing, just an upgrade from the tents, the only option Bagram personnel and troops had seen previously. The small homes offer troops protection from environmental conditions including wind, snow, sand and cold. They offer a nice place to stay and are an improvement from the tent. They have installation, electric, walls and ceilings. It’s a lot warmer in the winter and in the summer it’s a lot cooler. They don’t get the wind and they are a lot quieter. On average, B-huts house up to eight people, as does the majority housing option, the tent. But with the B-hut comes a little more breathing room. Most of the tents are 16 by 32 feet. Where these B-huts are 18 by 36 feet. B-huts are a welcomed addition to housing on Bagram and personnel in charge of creating the structures said they are excited to give people working here better housing. The facilities the Corps of Engineers are building at Bagram Air Force Base as well as other U.S. operational bases in Afghanistan are semi-permanent structures. Buildings which are constructed using more permanent materials such as cement blocks and provide a higher level of force protection than wooden or other less permanent types of construction. Cement blocks and concrete are also locally available while lumber or other prefabricated structures must be brought in from outside the region. Using locally available materials saves transportation costs and make these brick and mortar facilities close in price to less permanent types of facilities.

Thanks AFC, sounds a hell of a lot better than living in a temper tent or one of those tiny little trailers. Appreciate you taking the time to enlighten me. What about threat? I know they tried to hit Cheney there recently but that's all I've heard. Again thanks. :applause:

[bschurm]

I don't know if "thanks" is ever enough to express the tremendous gratitude I have for any man or woman serving in the service of the United States of America.

My prayers and well wishes go out to you and your family. May God keep you and carry you through this time.

[ZoEd]

Alright ladies and gentlemen I'm out of here. Thanks for all the well wishes and especially the prayers. I'll try to get on from time to time and update ya'll on the situation. Thanks again.

[Jumbo]

Godspeed, ZoEd

[Cheers, Beers and Mountaineers]

good luck, godspeed and thank you for your service

[KingGibbs]

God speed Zo.

[ZoEd]

One week down in beautiful, cold as hell Ft. McCoy WI. So far a whole bunch of indoctronation, familiarization and refresher training. No meat yet, just a bunch of potato's. Tell you what though; some of these instructors could give guys like JMS and some others hell when it comes to the whole war on Iraq. I know it's there job to push the war but they brought up some damn good FACTS, not FOX or CNN type stuff but no crap facts that would make you definitely see things in a different light. Don't have time for all of that though. Anywho, they're feeding us good and besides dealing with the idiocy of our upper echelon of officers things are going well. Miss the wife and kids a whole bunch but they seem to be hanging in there. Kind of glad to seem that the Skins haven't went crazy and traded half of our team for Briggs though.

I'll drop by for an update in a week or two. HTTR!

[bschurm]

Zoed, once again, I want to thank you for serving our country. A little tidbit you may enjoy, as well as others in the military, the San Diego Padres are wearing special uniforms in tonight's game in appreciation of our troops and armed services day at the stadium. The uniforms are desert camis. I just thought that was awesome!

I'm not too computer savvy, could someone post pics?

[stevenaa]

Godspeed, Zoed. You and your family will be in our prayers. Thanks for all you do.

[ZoEd]

Got about three inches of snow over the last two days. Nothing like it to get you ready for serving 6 months in Iraq. Just found out last night I'll be doing the first part of my tour at Balad AB north of Baghdad. Should be fun. Afghanistan got nixed for me due to it being a lower priority right now. Oh well, 6 months is 6 months no matter where I do it.

So far the training has been solid. Nothing cutting edge but useful none the less. The Army/Air Force doesn't want anyone serving in theater now without going through this training. The stuff going down over there is for real and bullets can't distinguish between pencil pushers and marines so everyone has to have their head on a swivel and be trained to respond properly when the poo hits the fan. I have to remind myself of this everytime I start to nod off listening to a MSgt who joined the Army in 1969. WOW

Until next time, HTTR.

[ZoEd]

Well Army training is over, thank God. Nothing against the Army but common sense doesn't seem to apply when it comes to their training. I guess in the Air Force we make a lot of assumptions and don't find it necessary to put every little detail of training into writing, like telling a soldier to eat and change their socks and underware. Then again, they probably wouldn't find it necessary to drill such things into your head unless someone, somewhere at sometime didn't eat or change their underware.

Anyway, I leave sunny, rainey, cold ass Wisconsin on the 2nd and head off to Al Udeid in Qatar. From there it's off to Balad AB in Iraq. It's been nicknamed Mortaritaville due to the constant mortar attacks on the base. Thankfully few of the attacks are successful since the dumbasses don't know how to set the fuses properly, lucky for us. No shortage of work once we get there. We'll hit the ground running and start construction within days. Once our project is complete we'll most likely move to Bahgram AB in Afghanistan. Who knows, the priorities change daily. 6 months is 6 months no matter where I do it so moving around doesn't really concern me all that much. What matters most is having a top notch team of engineers and craftsman that know their jobs and are willing to bust their asses to accomplish the mission and get home in one piece, priceless. Luckily I've been blessed with that. God bless you all and I'll holler at you when I get into the AOR.

[Sarge]

Well Army training is over, thank God. Nothing against the Army but common sense doesn't seem to apply when it comes to their training. I guess in the Air Force we make a lot of assumptions and don't find it necessary to put every little detail of training into writing, like telling a soldier to eat and change their socks and underware. Then again, they probably wouldn't find it necessary to drill such things into your head unless someone, somewhere at sometime didn't eat or change their underware.

Anyway, I leave sunny, rainey, cold ass Wisconsin on the 2nd and head off to Al Udeid in Qatar. From there it's off to Balad AB in Iraq. It's been nicknamed Mortaritaville due to the constant mortar attacks on the base. Thankfully few of the attacks are successful since the dumbasses don't know how to set the fuses properly, lucky for us. No shortage of work once we get there. We'll hit the ground running and start construction within days. Once our project is complete we'll most likely move to Bahgram AB in Afghanistan. Who knows, the priorities change daily. 6 months is 6 months no matter where I do it so moving around doesn't really concern me all that much. What matters most is having a top notch team of engineers and craftsman that know their jobs and are willing to bust their asses to accomplish the mission and get home in one piece, priceless. Luckily I've been blessed with that. God bless you all and I'll holler at you when I get into the AOR.

Have a good trip over bud. It's a long one. And your right, the mortors never hit anything, so you have that going for ya.

Stay low and get home soon :cheers:

[ZoEd]

Arrived at Al Udeid in Qatar around 2200 on the 2nd. Flight was solid, charter jet through NorthWest. Hot as hell here in Qatar; it's like someone has a gianormous hair dryer blowing in your face all day long. Leave for Balad soon but it will be short lived. Been told I'm being shipped someplace I can't talk about to secure a work site while our equipment operators build some earth berms. Over a million yards of dirt, should be a blast.

Speaking of doing security it seems to be the start of a new trend. The army is spread so thin right now they're leaving it up to the Air Force to do what used to be unheard of. The days of the "chair" force are long gone. It's less computers and "good" living and more guns and MRE's. It's alright though; if there's an Air Force unit that can pull this crap off it's the 820th Red Horse Squadron, we love this chit. We epitomize combat engineers. I'm just glad my 6 months has finally started, sooner I get started the sooner I can get home to my wife and kids. Ya'll keep praying for me, I'm probably really going to need it.

[Mad Mike]

I've been saying for years that it's the heat that makes those people over there so crazy. ;)

Keep your head on a swivel and stay low. :cheers:

[Air Force Cane]

check out this article on HUGE POSITIVE developments in Iraq in the last few days:

http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0503/p01s04-wome.html

[ZoEd]

Well, I've made my final destination. It's an exceptional piece of real estate known as Balad, to the Air Force and Anaconda to the Army. I've never seen anything like it. If there's a facility on base it's surrounded by 10' high concrete barriers. I guess since it's nicknamed Mortaritaville it requires such protection but my God I'd like to be the guy with the contract for making all of these damn barriers. It's hot as hell here, 104+ today with about 60% humidity. Not to mention the aromatic haze that covers the base 24/7 due to the dump burning "rubbish" all day long. If Al Gore saw this he'd go out and buy more low energy light bulbs for his mansion out of guilt. Anyway, the base is well established so just about everything you need is here. The only thing proving hard to come by is Whey protein and any other supplements due to the thousands of Army/Air Force personnel trying to get their buff on. If anyone knows a good online supplement store let me know so I can stock up on Protein and NOEXPLOD. :D

I've talked to numerous Soldiers and Airmen who have been doing business outside the wire and there seems to be a general consensus that they're sick of the media reporting nothing but negativity. Don't get me wrong outside these walls life isn't so swell but they say they are doing a hell of a lot of good but since it isn't in the news people aren't hearing about it. One guy told me that compared to last years it's like night and day. He said people are starting to resume as normal of a life as can be expected under the circumstances. You can almost feel the mood lightening for the citizens in most areas. One of my best friends came in from a mission the other night and said the technology available to them now is helping them imensely avoiding IED's and what not. Again things aren't perfect, it's still a war zone but it seems things are starting to take a turn for the better, we'll just have to wait and see. I'll holler at you guys later

Dave

[Sarge]

Arrived at Al Udeid in Qatar around 2200 on the 2nd. Flight was solid, charter jet through NorthWest. Hot as hell here in Qatar; it's like someone has a gianormous hair dryer blowing in your face all day long. Leave for Balad soon but it will be short lived. Been told I'm being shipped someplace I can't talk about to secure a work site while our equipment operators build some earth berms. Over a million yards of dirt, should be a blast.

Speaking of doing security it seems to be the start of a new trend. The army is spread so thin right now they're leaving it up to the Air Force to do what used to be unheard of. The days of the "chair" force are long gone. It's less computers and "good" living and more guns and MRE's. It's alright though; if there's an Air Force unit that can pull this crap off it's the 820th Red Horse Squadron, we love this chit. We epitomize combat engineers. I'm just glad my 6 months has finally started, sooner I get started the sooner I can get home to my wife and kids. Ya'll keep praying for me, I'm probably really going to need it.

Glad to hear you made it OK. Don't know if you've deployed before, but a word to the wise. Hate to say this, but DO NOT tell the family when you are SUPPOSED to come home. Inevitiably it gets delayed somehow and it's turns into an emotional rollercoaster for both you and the family. I would call when you get to Ramstein on the way out of the sandbox. Then you knw for sure you're on the way.

Stay low over there

[Cdowwe]

Good to hear from you. Keep the updates coming when you have spare moments and stay safe :cheers:

[Air Force Cane]

Air Force- when you want it destroyed on time and on target.

http://hometown.aol.com/pasattler/graphics/horsepic.jpg

[ZoEd]

Don't forget to change your socks!!

When I read this earlier it didn't click, now I'm :laugh: my ass off. Thanks I needed that and yes I'll change my socks and will even throw in a pair of clean underwear for good measure. Wouldn't want to get hurt with dirty underwear on. :D

[curlinga]

I'm so glad to see this thread! I was just thinking about you the other day & wondering how you were doing. Obviously, I've missed all of your updates until now, but now that I know you're posting regularly you can be sure I won't miss them again! :)

It's still early, but Sarge's advice about informing your family about your return date is spot on. BTDT...I prefered to not believe anything until he was back on US soil.

You & all of our service members are in my prayers.

Stay safe!

Amy

[jpillian]

When I read this earlier it didn't click, now I'm :laugh: my ass off. Thanks I needed that and yes I'll change my socks and will even throw in a pair of clean underwear for good measure. Wouldn't want to get hurt with dirty underwear on. :D

Dude, ditch the underwear. Absolutely the best piece of soldierly advice I can give you. When it's 130 in August there, you'll thank me :laugh:

Good luck and God bless, brother. And honestly, stay in the wire as much as you can. Diyala is no fun for anyone.

[28rdsknsfn28]

The days of the "chair" force are long gone. It's less computers and "good" living and more guns and MRE's. Ya'll keep praying for me, I'm probably really going to need it.



The "chair" force was gone a long time ago. When we got there in 04 the Air Force was running gun trucks for our convoy and they did a great job.

Stay safe and keep your damn head down!!

[Air Force Cane]

USAF: 14
Al Qaeda: 0

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/story?id=3161579&page=1

check out video in upper right hand corner :cool:

[ZoEd]

Nothing new really, work, work, work and just when you think there can't be anymore, more work. We're fighting a constant battle to get material in here to complete construction on 7 facilities. 6 of them are in different stages of completion and the last one is only a foundation. We'll start erecting the 7th structure tomorrow which will take about 7 days. Of course we've been given a ridiculous timeline that will never be met but we'll give it our best shot. Good thing is, I've been blessed with a great group of guys that love to work. It makes my job as project manager a hell of a lot easier.

The Air Force lost a young Staff Sargent the other day. He was a security forces NCO tasked with training Iraqi police cadets. His group was ambushed during the training and he was mortally wounded. So many people have died you kind of become desensitized but it comes home rather quickly when it's someone assigned to your base and you go to a memorial ceremony to honor them. All I could think about was how his family must feel when I didn't even know him and it ripped my heart out. I can't imagine the impact his death must have on his wife and children. For a brief moment it makes me ask myself is the price we're paying to liberate Iraq worth it? Can't dwell on that though, we have a mission to accomplish and I have to have faith that what I'm doing is going to somehow make this world a better place for my children and my grandchildren.

[Jumbo]

check out this article on HUGE POSITIVE developments in Iraq in the last few days:

http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0503/p01s04-wome.html
Good article. CNN just aired a special report on progress in Anbar. It's espcially strategic. And the two reporters that have been there for over a year and a half were being very specific and how much better things have become in the last six months.

[Jumbo]

Stay sharp, Dave :cheers:

[ZoEd]

So we're a month down and only have five left. I have to admit the first month went by pretty quick. Don't know that it went quite as fast for my wife but it never does.

There really isn't much to write about. Everyday it's the same thing, get up, work twelve hours in the blazing heat, eat the same food everyday (which isn't bad) and go to bed. Life on the FOB or AB is very monotonous and I can see how people become complacent and do stupid things that get them hurt.

We've been working 12+ hours a day now since about the 3rd day we arrived. Unfortuanately we were left with a pile of crap for a project. We're responsible for finishing 7 buildings in all stages of construction. Anywhere from 95% complete to about 10%. It appears the previous units did just enough work to show progress but did absolutely nothing to finish anything. I have a July 1st deadline to make or the Wing will suffer some pretty serious sitbacks. July 1st seems impossible but with the group of guys I have working for me anything is possible. Hands down the finest group of Civil Engineers I've ever worked with. They suprise me on a daily basis with what they're able to accomplish. All I have to do is try and keep their spirits up in the face of what appears to be absolute failure. With a little luck and hardwork we can do it, I need to tell myself that as well. :applause:

Anyway, we're all doing fairly well considering. If anyone is interested in adopting an Airmen for the next five months let me know. They enjoy getting little boxes and letters from home. Did I mention there are only 14 of us to pull all of this off? Just let me know and I can get you names of these young guys and they'd be extremely happy to get some goodies. Until next time

Dave

[stevenaa]

Glad to hear all is well. Hang tough. I'd like to adopt an Airman. (That just sounds a little wrong. :)) Send me the info I need.

[curlinga]

Good to hear that everything is progressing well. Sounds like you have one helluva job to finish! But you also sound like you have a good handle on the project.


Time does seem to move faster in theater than at home. It usually took me about a month to get my bearings and establish a routine that worked without hubby around. So, hopefully, that is some comfort for you to know that your wife is likely doing the same. Please let her know that she is in my prayers as are you and the all of our troops.

I would love to adopt one of your Airmen. PM me his address and I'll start baking some goodies to send.

Stay safe and Godspeed...

Amy

[Corcaigh]

Glad to hear all is well. Hang tough. I'd like to adopt an Airman. (That just sounds a little wrong. :)) Send me the info I need.

It sounds somewhat better than adopting a sailor.:)

[ZoEd]

After second thought I feel that nothing is being compromised by just putting their names on here. I'll start with the youngest/single guys and progress up since most married guys get little things here and there from their spouses.

Sra Michael Cousins/single Detroit Lions fan
SSgt Flavio Perez/single
Capt. Jay Haugen/Single Bears fan

Sra Brandon Behee/married
SSgt Stevie Coscouella/married
SSgt David Bailey/married
SSgt Alcid Tate/married
SSgt Stevie Coscouella/married
SSgt Marty Mettlin/married
TSgt Sean Minard/married
TSgt Chris Huller/married
TSgt Matthew Fisher/married Vigings fan
(me)TSgt Gerald Huffman/married

All of us are at the following address

Name
557 ERHS/ 1 ERHG
Apo AE 09135

If you want specifics just PM me and I'll get them to you. Don't want to put the email address on here because of the whole spam thing. Thank any and all of you for wanting to take the time to give these guys a little taste of home. My ES brothers and sisters never cease to amaze me, thank you. :applause:

By the way I'm the only Redskin fan surrounded by haters :doh:. Can't wait until Calvin Johnson goes across the middle against ST and Landry in October so I can watch my buddy cry. :D

[RideorDieChic]

I have a few friends in Iraq as we speak. One is being activated for a 19 months deployment in two months. For what they say staying in touch with family and friends is getting better, internet is more accessible than before, besides since you're Airforce and well fact is Airforce in the sands have it a bit more plush than other branches (*smile*), it shouldn't be too hard to drop us a line every then and now to let us know how ya doing. So be sure to do so when you can.


Thanks for what you do, be safe, stay alert; and God bless.

[Thirtyfive2seven]

if you're over by camp victory swing by and we'll sit around do nothing because there isn't **** to do here. Oh, you can use my internet connection. I have a sat link :)

[ldysknzfn1]

Sounds like things are going well despite the seemingly impossible circumstances. Sounds like you're surrounded by an A+ bunch of folks! Good for you! I wish I had the time to adopt some of the ppl that need it...but my time is at a premium most of the time and I don't want to commit to something and then not be able to fulfill. I could, however, email them from time to time just to let them know we all are grateful for what they're doing and if there's something that they just can't do without I can try my best to get it to them.
Thanks for your sacrifice..and it must be lonely being the only person with any football sense whatsoever over there;) . Take care...watch your back...come home safely..
God Bless

[ZoEd]

if you're over by camp victory swing by and we'll sit around do nothing because there isn't **** to do here. Oh, you can use my internet connection. I have a sat link :)

Got a few buddies down at Victory and a few at BIAP. What do you do? Feel free to jump in this thread and update people about the going's on down there as well. Got to be something going on from time to time.

[ZoEd]

Been a while since I've posted here in this thread but there hasn't been too much going on. 12 hour days, go to the gym and go to bed. Pretty uneventful to say the least. Doesn't mean there isn't a lot going on outside the FOB. Had to take one of my troops to the emergency room tonight. He got a small laceration on the back of his hand from a sharp piece of metal. Fortunately he had mechanics gloves on that prevented it from being worse than the three stitches he recieved. You can't imagine the amount of paperwork and heartache a little cut causes :doh:

Anyway, sitting in the emergency room was a sobering experience to say the least. The medivac choppers have been flying in non-stop today. Don't know what exactly is going on but we're obviously involved in some pretty serious fighting. While sitting there I saw things that I wish I would have never seen. Soldiers and Airmen with all sorts of different injuries in all stages of care. Then I heard the room called to attention and I assumed a DV must be entering the waiting area. I wish that were the case. The order present arms was given and a commrade was carted by on a gurney covered with an American flag. With a lump in my throat and an aching heart it was all I could do to hold back tears.

It's extremely easy to forget whats going on outside the confines of these gates. Besides the occasional mortar attack it's business as usual here on the FOB. I can promise you this, after what I saw tonight business will never be usual again. Now the sadness is starting to pass and I'm beginning to feel the anger of the senselessness of it all. Makes you question what the hell we're doing here. All I can do now is pray for him or her and his family.

[Teller]

All I can do now is pray for him or her and his family.

I'm sorry for your (our) loss, ZoEd. As much as I love Old Glory, it hurts like hell to see her doing that duty.

Y'know, as easy as it may be for you to forget what's going on outside the compound, it's even easier for many over here to just treat our fallen as a number. It's easy to forget that behind each troop is a husband or wife, a son or daughter, and a mom and dad. I don't know. It's hard for me to put things into words sometimes, I just hope we're not losing sight of the fact that we've still got plenty of heroes in this country.

Anyway, Z, you stay safe, brother. Tell our guys and gals over there we love them, and we're praying for the safe return of each of you.

[ZoEd]

I'm sorry for your (our) loss, ZoEd. As much as I love Old Glory, it hurts like hell to see her doing that duty.

Y'know, as easy as it may be for you to forget what's going on outside the compound, it's even easier for many over here to just treat our fallen as a number. It's easy to forget that behind each troop is a husband or wife, a son or daughter, and a mom and dad. I don't know. It's hard for me to put things into words sometimes, I just hope we're not losing sight of the fact that we've still got plenty of heroes in this country.

Anyway, Z, you stay safe, brother. Tell our guys and gals over there we love them, and we're praying for the safe return of each of you.

Tell you what, it really puts things in perspective. On TV all you ever see is another soldier killed and after a while you become desensitized to it. Seeing it first hand really makes reality come flooding back. Since seeing it I can't get the thought of his family being notified and how hard it's going to be on them out of my head.

As always thanks for your kind words HH and most of all thanks for your prayers.

[#98QBKiller]

The point has been made repeatedly that not supporting the war doesn't necessarily mean not supporting the troops. It's taken me several months and hundreds of threads to see that and all though some use that phrase as a scapegoat statement most here believe it.



United we stand, divided we fall.

We're Americans first and foremost and we support our fellow Americans when they are putting their lives on the line in the name of our country, whether we agree with the war or not.

You're service is greatly appreciated and you and every troop like you deserve the best that America can possibly give you. This is coming from someone who has opposed the war since its proposal.

We care about our fellow citizens first and politics second.

Here's to a safe tour that will hopefully go by quickly so you can make it home to your family....and the Redskins had damn well better produce a playoff run for the troops, and for the rest of us.

Thanks again brother.

:cheers:

[Park City Skins]

I'll echo what several of my fellow Extremesters have said already. Your service and risk that you take are greatly appreciated. From an ex military guy,(who saw no combat), to a present one who is, hang in there and take care.

[ZoEd]

I pulled all the fellows in before we went home today and by now everyone had heard what happened. We all sat and talked a minute and discussed just how unimportant not having enough lumber, sheetrock, conduit, plumbing fixtures and all the other stuff we're waiting on is. We get all wrapped around the axle about stupid stuff we have no control over when people right outside our base our dieing so we can be safe and free. Like I said before it puts things in prespective. A lot of them feel like the aren't doing anything because they're not out there kicking in doors and killing the bad guys so I have to re-emphasize just how important what we do really is and how it plays a roll in the success of what others do. It's a hard sell but it seems to help a little.

Just so you all know, it's getting real ugly out there right now and the guys that are carrying out these missions are fighting their guts out. They're bound and determined to make this surge work. I hope for their sake it's deemed a success because they deserve every ounce of praise they get and some. What's going on out there is damn sure not pretty.

Thanks again brothers and sisters of ES, when I'm down I can always count on you all to make me feel a little better.

[Thirtyfive2seven]

Hey Zoed, thanks for your service. While you're there in Balad if you happen to come across a Sean Quinn (Army Infantry) tell him JT says hello.

[Teller]

Dave, I sent this to you in an email as well. I just thought some of the folks on ES might like to read it too. I'm not a poet of any kid, but here's what I've got:

Every generation is called upon to serve,
To show a faith unyielding, and unwaivering guts and nerve.

Our grandads saw a beach, that was nowhere near Omaha.
Their courage and their bravery, left us grandkids struck with awe.

Our fathers saw the jungles, of darkest Vietnam,
The enemy silent and deadly, our soldiers brave and strong.

And now we turn to you, my friends, to heed our nation's call.
The airmen and the soldiers, of the greatest fighting force of all.

You left your wives and children, or a girlfriend back home,
And though at times hearts are heavy, you know you're not alone.

Your countrymen await your arrival, back in your native land.
And though we can't repay you, we'll gladly extend a hand.

We'll offer you our gratitude, our blessings and our love.
Upon seeing you home safely, we'll thank the Lord above.

We're grateful that He's given us men and women like yourselves.
Until we meet, God bless you, stay safe, and GIVE 'EM HELL!!!


Take care, my friend. Stay safe. :cheers:

[28rdsknsfn28]

Wow hh that is beautiful.

[Teller]

Wow hh that is beautiful.

You're too kind. Thanks. :cheers:

I'd really like to see what a real writer, like Burgold, or Om, or one of those guys could come up with.

*hint hint* :)

[28rdsknsfn28]

Here is something my daughter wrote at Christmas while I was in Iraq.

GIFT OF PEACE
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care
But the normal Christmas cheer is not in the air
The children are arguing their usual fight
Of who would open the best gift that night

Mom's cooking a smaller dinner for three
And there's fewer gifts around this year's tree
Dad's keeping the peace in far off Iraq
This family's only wish is to have their soldier back

They open their gifts, each one by one
She got here first set of makeup, and he a toy gun
Mom opens a gift sent to all from Dad
There are pictures of hi, all cammo clad

He's written a letter telling each, "Don't forget
I'm sending something more, but it won't be there yet
It may not arrive this week or next
But I promise this gift will be the biggest and best."

The children went to bed late that cold Christmas night
Mom tucking both in, and turning out the light
All of them thinking of how great it will be
When he finally comes home and they're a whole family

Over in Iraq Dad misses them all
But he's there because he chose to answer a call
He's serving his country, he's strong and brave
He refuses to be selfish, he's got lives to save.

[ZoEd]

Well it's been a while but haven't had much to write about. The constant struggles and success of construction aren't very interesting. Things have been pretty quiet but we expect that to change with the beginning of Ramadan, we'll see.

Anyway, the baby girl is finally here. Sadie Layne Huffman was born today at 0942 in Vegas. 7lbs 6oz. She's healthy and Mama is doing good as well. Apparently she's beautiful with a full head of hair and her Daddy's good looks. Kind of bitter sweet not being able to be there but I was able to talk to my wife on the phone while they were doing the C-section so that was nice. I should be getting some pictures and video soon. Only about another month and I should be able to hold her in my arms, can't wait. So there's another child born into the royal Redskin family. I'll make sure she represents them well. HTTR!

[ldysknzfn1]

Well it's been a while but haven't had much to write about. The constant struggles and success of construction aren't very interesting. Things have been pretty quiet but we expect that to change with the beginning of Ramadan, we'll see.

Anyway, the baby girl is finally here. Sadie Layne Huffman was born today at 0942 in Vegas. 7lbs 6oz. She's healthy and Mama is doing good as well. Apparently she's beautiful with a full head of hair and her Daddy's good looks. Kind of bitter sweet not being able to be there but I was able to talk to my wife on the phone while they were doing the C-section so that was nice. I should be getting some pictures and video soon. Only about another month and I should be able to hold her in my arms, can't wait. So there's another child born into the royal Redskin family. I'll make sure she represents them well. HTTR!

Congrats to the new Daddy! That's great. It will make the homecoming all the more special! I'm glad things are "quiet" around those parts for now. Here's wishing you a speedy return to your new bundle of joy! Thanks for all that you do.

[ZoEd]

Here is something my daughter wrote at Christmas while I was in Iraq.

GIFT OF PEACE
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care
But the normal Christmas cheer is not in the air
The children are arguing their usual fight
Of who would open the best gift that night

Mom's cooking a smaller dinner for three
And there's fewer gifts around this year's tree
Dad's keeping the peace in far off Iraq
This family's only wish is to have their soldier back

They open their gifts, each one by one
She got here first set of makeup, and he a toy gun
Mom opens a gift sent to all from Dad
There are pictures of hi, all cammo clad

He's written a letter telling each, "Don't forget
I'm sending something more, but it won't be there yet
It may not arrive this week or next
But I promise this gift will be the biggest and best."

The children went to bed late that cold Christmas night
Mom tucking both in, and turning out the light
All of them thinking of how great it will be
When he finally comes home and they're a whole family

Over in Iraq Dad misses them all
But he's there because he chose to answer a call
He's serving his country, he's strong and brave
He refuses to be selfish, he's got lives to save.

Sorry I didn't read this sooner but I haven't checked this thread in a while.

This is beautiful, I'm sitting here damn near in tears. I hope to God this war either ends or I get assigned some place where I don't have to deploy again for a while. I don't want to ever have to miss another holiday or major event in my families lives again. I've served this country for almost 18 years and have spent 3 of the last 6 away from home, I think I've done my part, it's time to stay home for a little while. God bless you and your family, your daughter is very talented and obviously loves her Daddy very much. :cheers:

[Teller]

My heartiest congratulations, ZoEd. Glad to hear everyone is doing well. :cheers:


Hope the wait to see Sadie goes as quickly as possible!

[hokie4redskins]

:cheers: :cheers:

[ZoEd]

Got some pictues of the little lady and it's official. She's beautiful, healthy a Redskin fan. She can't wait for MNF! Thanks for the congrats, I'm on cloud nine right now. Got to watch the video and she's so damn cute. Man there's nothing like being a father, nothing.

[ZoEd]

Well, it's finally over. I returned home last night after being away for a little over 7 months. Seeing my little Sadie for the first time was amazing, she's so beautiful. My other daughter Zoe wouldn't let me go, she was crying her eyes out and saying over and over "I just want my Daddy". I still get all teary eyed thinking about that moment. My son Grayson is a hoss! My God that boy is solid and at 18 months old he dwarfs kids a year or two older than him. Can't wait till he's old enough to play football. My wife is as beautiful as ever and being back in my own home is so surreal. The homecoming was definitely nice, we were honored well.

To recap the deployment; we worked hard, laughed even harder. I was blessed with an outstanding group of men, they made my job extremely easy. In 6 months we completed 9 8K square ft facilities. Our efforts allowed the Air Force to move their entire supply section consolidating it into three facilities. We also facilitated the complete migration of the vehicle maintenance squadron from two hardened aircraft shelters into four facilities. These shelters have since been renovated and F16 fighter aircraft now reside in them. This allows the jets to be armed at all times enabling immediate response to our brothers and sisters outside the wire. The CAS (close air support) jets have been putting warheads on foreheads all summer long and it's impossible to estimate how many lives have been saved because of them. We also completed a storage warehouse for our services personnel and forward deployed to Baghdad to build another facility for my EOD brothers assigned there.

All and all the deployment was very rewarding. We accomplished a lot in an extremely short period of time. The efforts of my team have made a huge difference and will pay dividends for the entire AOR. We appreciate the well wishes and prayers from all of you, it means a lot. I'm glad to be home but unfortunately it will be short lived; 11 months and we're going back. No matter how many times you go it never gets easier.

Thanks again, Dave.

[Teller]

Great news indeed, Dave! Glad to hear you're home safe, and that the family is doing well. All the very best to you and yours, my friend. Welcome back to the good ol' U.S.A. We missed you!

:cheers:

[Ellis]

Thank you so much for what you have done for the USA.
I can't find the words to thank you enough ZoEd.
I'm happy you came back safe and I wish you the best of holidays with your family this year.

[Sarge]

Welcome home! Glad you made it back for the holidays!

Hopefully the Deployment Man will leave you alone for awhile

[Raub]

Welcome home dude. :cheers:

[twa]

Glad to have ya back :cheers:

[#98QBKiller]

Welcome home ZoEd, enjoy the holidays and our winning record while it lasts!



:cheers:

[Spaceman Spiff]

Welcome home, glad you're safe! :cheers:

[curlinga]

Welcome home!!!! :applause: :applause: :applause:


And remember, the key to a happy homecoming is...communicate, communicate, communicate. :)


Cheers! :cheers:

Amy

[Predicto]

Welcome Home!

Thank you so much for your service!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Sarge]

Welcome home!!!! :applause: :applause: :applause:


And remember, the key to a happy homecoming is...communicate, communicate, communicate. :)


Cheers! :cheers:

Amy

Oh, I suspect there'll be some serious communicating going on :laugh:

[ZoEd]

Welcome home!!!! :applause: :applause: :applause:


And remember, the key to a happy homecoming is...communicate, communicate, communicate. :)


Cheers! :cheers:

Amy

Amy are you in the military? Do you happen to work for the Chaplain or the Family Readiness center? I was told the same thing by them all morning long in briefings. :laugh: I hear you though. The wife has been mother, father, friend, everything for the last 7 months and now I come in like nothing has changed. Here in the real world things don't work out that easily. If you can't communicate with you significant other returning home from a deployment can be a nightmare. Could be why there's so many divorces in the military. Thanks for the sound advice though, I appreciate it. :applause:

[Sarge]

Amy are you in the military? Do you happen to work for the Chaplain or the Family Readiness center? I was told the same thing by them all morning long in briefings. :laugh: I hear you though. The wife has been mother, father, friend, everything for the last 7 months and now I come in like nothing has changed. Here in the real world things don't work out that easily. If you can't communicate with you significant other returning home from a deployment can be a nightmare. Could be why there's so many divorces in the military. Thanks for the sound advice though, I appreciate it. :applause:

Hey man, if this is your first long deployment and things get weird, PM me.

I'm no couselor, but I've got the "Been there, done that" experience

[ZoEd]

Oh, I suspect there'll be some serious communicating going on :laugh:

You're right about that. Too bad the conversation only lasts a few minutes. :D

[ZoEd]

Hey man, if this is your first long deployment and things get weird, PM me.

I'm no couselor, but I've got the "Been there, done that" experience

Unfortunately it's not my first and won't be my last, already on tap for October next year. Only problem I've ever dealt with is sleeping, can never get enough and if something wakes me up, I'm up. Can't seem to fall back to sleep once I'm awaken. There were times over there where I went four or five days in a row with three or less hours sleep. That gets old fast. Thanks for offering, if things get weird I'll definitely hit you up.

[curlinga]

Amy are you in the military? Do you happen to work for the Chaplain or the Family Readiness center? I was told the same thing by them all morning long in briefings. :laugh: I hear you though. The wife has been mother, father, friend, everything for the last 7 months and now I come in like nothing has changed. Here in the real world things don't work out that easily. If you can't communicate with you significant other returning home from a deployment can be a nightmare. Could be why there's so many divorces in the military. Thanks for the sound advice though, I appreciate it. :applause:

I was in the Army Reserve for 12 years...got out when we had kids. Hubby is still in & we've been through 4 deployments, so the mantra rings very true.

If/when things get weird & if you find that you're having a hard time seeing things from your wife's perspective, please PM me. Like Sarge said...I've "been there, done that" with homecomings & the adjustments after the honeymoon phase.

Again...glad to have you home! :cheers:



Oh, I suspect there'll be some serious communicating going on :laugh:


:laugh:

Of course...but I was refering to when the honeymoon phase is over.

But you knew that...didn't you? ;) :silly:

Amy

[Bang]

Thank you for your service Z.
Glad your safe, and it's good to know there are people like you out there.

~John

[Raub]

Only problem I've ever dealt with is sleeping, can never get enough and if something wakes me up, I'm up. Can't seem to fall back to sleep once I'm awaken. There were times over there where I went four or five days in a row with three or less hours sleep.

I still don't sleep right. Sunday night I got 2 hours, last night I got 3. It sucks. My wife was afraid to wake me up for a long time because I'd do unpredictable **** when she tried to nudge me awake. I've gotten better with that, but the waking up and being up thing just lingers. Good luck. Hope they gave you some block leave so you can paaartaaay! :cheers:

btw, were you at Balad?

[curlinga]

My wife was afraid to wake me up for a long time because I'd do unpredictable **** when she tried to nudge me awake.

Yikes...I almost forgot about that part. It's a scary experience for both parties involved. I remember my husband being extremely upset by his reaction to me accidently waking him up. And while it scared me, I never blamed him or held it against him...it was a reaction honed in a warzone that helped him to come home to me. It took some time, but that tendency did go away.

Zoed...please talk to your wife about this possibility. Let her know it's best not to try to wake you up...especially if you seem to be dreaming. And if it happens anyway...remember...communicate, communicate, communicate. :)


Amy

[ldysknzfn1]

Welcome Home! Glad you made it safely and that the family is doing well. Enjoy your time at home w/enthusiam and gusto! Take time to do the little things...and take time for you and your wife to be free of the kids later. Take time for yourself as well. I know that sounds weird but you've been in a high stress environment for quite some time..you need to decompress and do a few things for you. Thanks for your service and will be praying for you and your family. Don't look ahead to your next deployment until the time comes. Enjoy your family and all the love that comes w/it!:cheers:

[DeanCollins]

Welcome back ZoEd it must a trip being back at the house. Sounds like you got a lot construction experience. In a couple years when you retire, it'll be time to get your contractors license.

[Air Force Cane]

Congrats and thanks for your service! :cheers:

looks like I am going over in a few weeks to Baghdad..

[China]

Thanks!

Glad to hear you are home safe and sound.

[MontanaRed]

Welcome home, and THANK YOU for your service! Enjoy the next 11 months with your family.

[RyansRangers]

welcome home my man.. You made up proud

[RyansRangers]

I still don't sleep right. Sunday night I got 2 hours, last night I got 3. It sucks. My wife was afraid to wake me up for a long time because I'd do unpredictable **** when she tried to nudge me awake. I've gotten better with that, but the waking up and being up thing just lingers. Good luck. Hope they gave you some block leave so you can paaartaaay! :cheers:

btw, were you at Balad?


Raub, I was the same way for a long time. I was taking benedryl and tylenol PM just to keep me asleep but nothing helped. I didnt want to take RX drugs for addiction reasons

To this day if I am very bored or have nothing goin on in my life I revert back to that but as long as I can keep busy I seem to be ok. Although after I got out I never slept and was very quick to anger and rage

[Park City Skins]

Welcome back Zoed. Glad you made it back safely. Thanks for the service you have done for your country.







Now get your butt back into the gym. :silly:

[iheartskins]

Welcome home ZoEd.

Thanks for your service to our country.

Glad you're safe. :)

[Tastes Like Chicken]

Welcome back, and thank you for your service to our nation.

[Raub]

Raub, I was the same way for a long time. I was taking benedryl and tylenol PM just to keep me asleep but nothing helped. I didnt want to take RX drugs for addiction reasons

To this day if I am very bored or have nothing goin on in my life I revert back to that but as long as I can keep busy I seem to be ok. Although after I got out I never slept and was very quick to anger and rage

I've tried Benedryl, it jacks me up and makes it worse. Sometimes a dose of NyQuil will do the trick. Mostly I just wait, after a week or so I'll be so exhausted I'll sleep for 12 hours on the weekend. Ambien worked wonders for me, but like you said, you can't take RX stuff all the time.

Don't want to hijack this thread, welcome home again ZoEd. :cheers:

[AzSkinsFan63]

Congrats.......and welcome home

[ZoEd]

I've tried Benedryl, it jacks me up and makes it worse. Sometimes a dose of NyQuil will do the trick. Mostly I just wait, after a week or so I'll be so exhausted I'll sleep for 12 hours on the weekend. Ambien worked wonders for me, but like you said, you can't take RX stuff all the time.

Don't want to hijack this thread, welcome home again ZoEd. :cheers:

No problem, I'm with you on the Ambien. When I had my shoulder surgery that gave me some to help me sleep due to the inability to get comfortable. The pharmacy on base would only give me ten because they said it's supposedly one of the most addictive meds given. So I took my RX for 30 downtown. That was two years ago and I still have a few left. Problem is I sleep like a rock when I take it then can't sleep for a week afterwards.

Don't know how much research the military has done but I've met a ton of active/retired servicemembers that suffer from this problem. When I identified it during my post deployment questionaire they didn't seemed too concerned. Go figure.

[Teller]

No problem, I'm with you on the Ambien. When I had my shoulder surgery that gave me some to help me sleep due to the inability to get comfortable. The pharmacy on base would only give me ten because they said it's supposedly one of the most addictive meds given. So I took my RX for 30 downtown. That was two years ago and I still have a few left. Problem is I sleep like a rock when I take it then can't sleep for a week afterwards.

Don't know how much research the military has done but I've met a ton of active/retired servicemembers that suffer from this problem. When I identified it during my post deployment questionaire they didn't seemed too concerned. Go figure.

Dave, I was never deployed to a combat zone, but I've had some other stressors that led to insomnia at different times.

I know I haven't experienced what you have, but Sonata worked very well for me. It allowed me to relax and sleep comfortably without being "loopy" or "groggy" when I woke up. I also experienced zero problems in terms of addiction.

I wish you the very best, and again, welcome home brother. :cheers:

[Air Force Cane]

what do you think about wearing a concealable Level IIIA vest underneath a Marine Corps Pointblank body armor level IIIA?

should that work for enough protection to IEDs? I have to get from BIAP to the Green Zone and around Baghdad..

[ZoEd]

what do you think about wearing a concealable Level IIIA vest underneath a Marine Corps Pointblank body armor level IIIA?

should that work for enough protection to IEDs? I have to get from BIAP to the Green Zone and around Baghdad..

Depends on what you're riding in. From what I've seen the blasts either don't do enough damage because of the uparmored vehicles or they're so damn powerful it doesn't matter what you're wearing. If you're not in an armored vehicle the vest should be enough to keep you alive but it won't do crap for the rest of your body.

Your biggest concern is the EFP, we still don't have anything that can stop them completely. Good news is we busted up a safe house that had over 100 of them made and ready to go, not to mention a bunch of stuff to make a couple hundred more. Getting them things off the street is huge.

Good luck over there and make sure you bring a camera. You'll see some pretty amazing things. Also, if you get a chance do a little fishing. I caught myself a nice 4lb "Saddam" Bass. Usually plenty of rod and reels around but you might want to swing by walmart and pick up some artificial grubs and jig heads. Have fun.