UPDATE: As I'm certainly not in the habit of making two blog entries in one day, I opted to include this piece as an update to an already posted entry. It is likely that events of some signifance are unfolding. I would like to direct your attention to this exceptionally well written piece posted today by a writer in Iraq.
Ok. Carry on.
Integration is proceeding slowly, but smoothly, with our new supported battalion. On top of all the other changes that we're enduring, we are now supporting armor. That means tanks; lots and lots of M1 Abrams tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles. Aside from the Hoo-AH!! aspects - which are undeniable - we really don't know how that will affect our job. In any event, we're getting to know the names and faces at headquarters, and they all seem quite pleased to have us around and are anxious to see what we can bring to the fight.
Our new home is one of several contiguous bases that form a massive mega-base around BIAP (Baghdad International Airport). There is nothing homey or cozy about this place. It is dusty, brown, dusty, huge, dusty, crowded, dusty, impersonal, and dusty. The hike to the nearest dining facility takes 15 to 20 minutes, and requires some very strategic timing to avoid a line. Where we live apparently used to be a private hunting preserve for Saddam Hussein. There are several man made lakes and canals that are positively loaded with fish (mostly carp) and turtles. It is not unusual to see soldiers fishing in these lakes. Nearby - and technically on another base - are a couple of Saddam's presidential palaces. We haven't had an opportunity to play tourist yet, but will do so soon.
The base is crawling with Fobbits of various utility. Most are critically essential to the functioning of the military, and are immensely appreciated by those of us whose primary mission is "outside the wire". However, as division HQ is collocated here, our base is infested with Sergeants Major whose sole function appears to be enforcing Army regulations with regard to sock color, pants leg blousing, and sleeve-rolling.
It is getting hotter. Today I actually had trouble writing a note because the sweat from my brow was streaming onto the paper and smearing the ink. Maybe if Saddam hadn't dug out these lakes it wouldn't be so humid. Iraq; what a stupid place to put a country.
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4 comments:
Hey, I am now keeping up with your blogs so much easier on this fast loading Kelly internet connection in the USA! It is good to read that you are feeling more at home in your new digs and feeling appreciated. I like that you are inside more armor on your missions. Watch your NECK!
Whoa. Let me be clear. We'll probably be rolling on missions with tanks, not in tanks.
Oh boy Lee, I heard the news last night of the new attack and just finished reading the blog you tacked on. I am breathless, scared, excited and proud for all of you over there. I do like hearing about the big guns coming out on the ground and in the air. And again I pray that you all keep you necks covered! Drat, and here I had rosy visions of you IN the tanks. Well, better WITH than WITHOUT!
YO NAVY GUY HERE -I WAS AT CAMP DUBLIN -DOWN THE STREET FROM YA BY THE PRISON ------- YEP BIAP SUCKED -------OUR OP AREA WAS SADIR CITY -REALLY SUCKED
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