New Years Eve is finally upon us. Today will be a day of barbecuing, watching movies, and counting down until 2009 arrives. As we sit beside a fire, the distant sounds of a re-enlistment can be heard. As the clock strikes midnight, we all shout “Happy New Year”! as the first person in the Marine Corps signs for four more years of service. Today is about thanks.
First, I have to give thanks to God for everything he has done for me. He has kept me safe not only during this deployment, but from the moment I was conceived some 21+ years ago. Though I’ve had some very rough times, close calls with death, and memories I’d rather soon forget, He has always brought me through. As 2009 has arrived, I know He will continue to protect me and guide me along the path He sees fit for me
I’d like to thank my mother for being the strong woman that she is. Her courage and commitment has shown me that anything is possible. She has molded me into the man I am now. Her continuous encouragement throughout my life has helped me become the leader I am today.
My son, although barely over a year old now, has been an inspiration to me. He is the reason I continue to serve. I fight for him today so he won’t have to fight for a better, safer tomorrow. In November 2007, he saved my life at one month old and or that, I’ll never be able to show him how much I appreciate it. I look forward to the day that I’ll be able to hug him, looking in his eyes, and tell him how much I love him.
To Andre Salles, the staff writer for the Aurora Beacon. Thank you for showing interest and support in my blog endeavor. What started out as a way for me to document my holidays here in Iraq grew into a months-worth of blogs read by people all across the nation. After appearing on the front page of the Sunday paper, emails poured in from across the nation from well-wishers and supporters. I cannot begin to thank you enough for all you have done for me.
To the people at Prisco 55 and Better Group, thank you for the care packages that were sent throughout the month of December. Although I haven’t had the chance to formally meet you, I plan to personally thank each of you once I make it back from the deployment. The items were well-received by myself as well as the men who work in the office with me. Psalm 91, a book that was included in one of the packages, was a true inspiration to me, a book that I recommend to any person of the uniformed services looking for extra protection while performing their job.
To a good friend in Austin, TX who has been a great deal of help during this deployment. The constant communication I’ve had with you via email has helped the days go by a lot smoother. The weekly thoughts you’ve sent have been an inspiration and have helped me in ways you may never understand. I thank you for being there for the good days as well as the bad that I’ve been here. God places people in our lives for a reason and I’m thankful that he placed you in my life.
To those who have lost their lives in this war, your sacrifice will not be in vain. We continue to fight here in honor of the price you’ve paid. Nearly six years after we officially declared war, we continue to serve so others will remember what you’ve given up for us. From the bottom of my heart, my prayers go out to your families and friends who miss you most.
Finally, to the men and women of the uniformed services, thank you for your continued service over the years. For some of you, this is your first trip to the sandbox. For others, this is the fifth. The time you’ve spent away from family and friends, the numerous holidays and special occasions you’ve had to miss, we all share that common bond now. We’ve grown to be a family, veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom.
Now that 2009 has rolled in, this will be our year. Our year to make more change, our year to progress, and our year to bring home some of the troops from a long and painful deployment. 2008 has gone, here we remain. 2009 has come, here we remain. As the war goes, it is here we will remain. Until the job is done, until the last one comes home.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Day 30 - Remembering the Holidays in Iraq
Serving in Iraq during the holiday season has been an experience. Good times and bad, separation and closeness, victories and defeats. Many of the lessons learned will carry over into 2009 but the greatest thing I can hope to do is remember these lessons and take them with me throughout my deployment, my military career, and my life in general.
The old saying “Never judge a book by its cover” has never had truer meaning until recently. As mentioned several entries prior, I learned this through the contact I had with an Iraqi contractor. It was all sparked with a “thank you” and a hug. I’ve learned many things about the people of this nation. I’ve seen their reactions to terrorism on their soil and the glow in their eyes as they wish to rid their country of evil. I’ve known about multiple local leaders who meet with the military, who are willing to work with us, to make their neighborhoods safe for children to play outside. As with any nation, not everyone is a bad person. There is surely a select few of individuals who wish to commit acts of violence or break the law, but these actions do not define the nation as a whole. Its taken many years since the attacks of 9/11 of me to realize this.
I will forever remember those who I’ve worked with in the past months. A group of individuals who accepted me for me. Being the only Air Force person not only in the office, but in the building, I was not treated any differently because of the service I chose to enlist in. From the countless nights we’ve spent together to the days we’ve spent at the chow hall checking to see who would leave the table so we could all stack our empty plates on their tray. Working with all the services as well as civilians, I’ve been able to gain knowledge beyond my dreams that I would not have attained otherwise. For this, I am thankful.
Friends and family back home have been a huge support to everyone deployed. From people we’ve known our entire lives to strangers we’ve never met, they have shown that they truly care about the people who are out here. From the numerous packages that arrive in the mail daily to the emails that I see flash across computer screens, they have been here to support the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians every step of the way.
As New Years is only a day away, I will be sure to make several resolutions. As we move into 2009, I will have a completely different outlook on the war, the people of this country, and the value of life.
The old saying “Never judge a book by its cover” has never had truer meaning until recently. As mentioned several entries prior, I learned this through the contact I had with an Iraqi contractor. It was all sparked with a “thank you” and a hug. I’ve learned many things about the people of this nation. I’ve seen their reactions to terrorism on their soil and the glow in their eyes as they wish to rid their country of evil. I’ve known about multiple local leaders who meet with the military, who are willing to work with us, to make their neighborhoods safe for children to play outside. As with any nation, not everyone is a bad person. There is surely a select few of individuals who wish to commit acts of violence or break the law, but these actions do not define the nation as a whole. Its taken many years since the attacks of 9/11 of me to realize this.
I will forever remember those who I’ve worked with in the past months. A group of individuals who accepted me for me. Being the only Air Force person not only in the office, but in the building, I was not treated any differently because of the service I chose to enlist in. From the countless nights we’ve spent together to the days we’ve spent at the chow hall checking to see who would leave the table so we could all stack our empty plates on their tray. Working with all the services as well as civilians, I’ve been able to gain knowledge beyond my dreams that I would not have attained otherwise. For this, I am thankful.
Friends and family back home have been a huge support to everyone deployed. From people we’ve known our entire lives to strangers we’ve never met, they have shown that they truly care about the people who are out here. From the numerous packages that arrive in the mail daily to the emails that I see flash across computer screens, they have been here to support the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians every step of the way.
As New Years is only a day away, I will be sure to make several resolutions. As we move into 2009, I will have a completely different outlook on the war, the people of this country, and the value of life.
Day 29 - Air Force Red Horse
Living in a deployed environment, there are things back home in the States that we take for granted. The biggest of these things would be the luxury of a bathroom, let alone running water, in a building where you work or live. Every time we need to take a shower, use the facilities, or wash our hands, we have to trek outside to the nearest restroom, dubbed “the head”. During the day this wasn’t a big issue because the sun normally kept us warm. During the evening hours, many could be seen running from their rooms to use the facilities. It began a tough decision to make during the evening hours. “Do I really need to use the restroom that bad or can I hold it until the morning?”
The situation we were in was soon to change. As the Air Force’s civil engineers, better known as Red Horse, arrived to camp, they quickly began to work on installing a plumbing system in my office building. With local national contractors doing construction on the inside, Red Horse was outside digging holes and running pipes throughout all hours of the day during their short stint here. With the distinctive red hard-hats, they could barely be seen as they worked several feet below ground connecting water lines and clearing debris.
One Captain who I’d known since the “old days” at the dance nights was the officer in charge of the operation. As I returned from a meeting one day, I saw him in one of the holes, demonstrating his superior supervisory skills. After briefly conversing with him, he decided to show me that in order to be a good leader, you have to be able to perform the jobs of those who work under you as well. As he climbed into the seat of a Bobcat, all of the Airmen had their cameras ready and waiting.
After receiving a brief demonstration and a walk-through, he began to scratch away at the hole, clearing a path to the water main. Getting excited and into the motion, he accidentally hit a communications line and cracked the barrier. As soon as the crunch of the metal-on-plastic was heard, he immediately hopped out of the machine, laughing because everyone else knew the line was there except for him.
As he reviewed the photos and videos of his endeavor, he jokingly begged us to delete them from our camera. Good times were to be had that day. As he walked to inspect the damage, he slipped on the hole he just made, sliding into the several feet deep hole. Again, cameras were out and flashes were going off as we documented another memorable day.
In all, the Red Horse guys had worked several hard days to provide us with running water. Though their mission is not complete, they still work as fast and efficient as possible to give us a bit more civilization than what we were used to having. At the end of this mission, they’re soon to be going to another location to perform other various tasks and help others with the difficult transition from civilization to the barren deserts of Iraq.
The situation we were in was soon to change. As the Air Force’s civil engineers, better known as Red Horse, arrived to camp, they quickly began to work on installing a plumbing system in my office building. With local national contractors doing construction on the inside, Red Horse was outside digging holes and running pipes throughout all hours of the day during their short stint here. With the distinctive red hard-hats, they could barely be seen as they worked several feet below ground connecting water lines and clearing debris.
One Captain who I’d known since the “old days” at the dance nights was the officer in charge of the operation. As I returned from a meeting one day, I saw him in one of the holes, demonstrating his superior supervisory skills. After briefly conversing with him, he decided to show me that in order to be a good leader, you have to be able to perform the jobs of those who work under you as well. As he climbed into the seat of a Bobcat, all of the Airmen had their cameras ready and waiting.
After receiving a brief demonstration and a walk-through, he began to scratch away at the hole, clearing a path to the water main. Getting excited and into the motion, he accidentally hit a communications line and cracked the barrier. As soon as the crunch of the metal-on-plastic was heard, he immediately hopped out of the machine, laughing because everyone else knew the line was there except for him.
As he reviewed the photos and videos of his endeavor, he jokingly begged us to delete them from our camera. Good times were to be had that day. As he walked to inspect the damage, he slipped on the hole he just made, sliding into the several feet deep hole. Again, cameras were out and flashes were going off as we documented another memorable day.
In all, the Red Horse guys had worked several hard days to provide us with running water. Though their mission is not complete, they still work as fast and efficient as possible to give us a bit more civilization than what we were used to having. At the end of this mission, they’re soon to be going to another location to perform other various tasks and help others with the difficult transition from civilization to the barren deserts of Iraq.
Day 28 - Secret Santa
Over the past few weeks, several members of my office were sent out on missions throughout the Christmas holiday. One, in particular, had organized an office Secret Santa but because of her duties that took her away from camp, we didn’t feel right in taking part in the gift exchange without here being present. As the days after Christmas rolled on, they began to arrive one by one. When we received word that the final Marine was headed back, we began to prepare for the evening to see who would receive what.
Before we could take part in the gift-giving, she first had to open up all the of mail that had accumulated while she was away. Care packages from family and friends back home were stuffed into boxes. Unsure of what to do with most of the items, she began handing things out that she knew others would enjoy. Mike and Ike candy, books, magazines, decks of cards, even phone cards. As she picked through her pile, we all went inside to find the packages with our names on them and bring them out to the patio to rest underneath our tree.
Once everyone had retrieved their gift from their Secret Santa, we stood in a circle and watched as each person opened their gifts. Some were hilarious pranks, some were items that we had been watching at the post exchange, others were gifts that were surely needed in the cold weather. I received an Air Force hooded sweatshirt for nights we would go to the gym. The limited number of civilian clothes I brought along with me were no match for the brutal weather here at night. The sweater was sure to get much usage in the coming weeks.
The funniest gift was from one of the Corporals to a Lieutenant. While he was away, he has asked fellow Marines to get a gift for his Secret Santa. That was his first mistake. Those Marines found an image of him in full gear looking off into the sunset and printed out a poster two feet wide by three feet long. When the Lieutenant unrolled the posted, a look of shock and awe overtook here. The rest of us knew about the prank and forced ourselves to hold back our laughs as she stood speechless. Once we told her the story behind everything, we presented her with the real gift he had gotten for her.
Some of the other gifts included a hand-crafted wooden pig, stuffed animals, a shot glass and flask set, a journal, and a man-bag. Yes, a man bag. All in all, we made a good decision to put off our holiday activity until we were all together. For the majority of them, they had been together for almost a year here in the desert and they wanted to make this holiday season one to remember. Though I had only been with them for two months, they all welcomed me as the “Plus One” to their Marine Corps gatherings. As they will be leaving soon and other Marines take their place here in Iraq, I will definitely miss the good times that I’ve shared with them. From the early days of building our patio through the New Years holiday, we had grown close. The bond between servicemembers is greater than any bond in the civilian sector. I volunteered to serve these months in Iraq and if given the chance to serve with these Marines again, I wouldn’t hesitate to volunteer once more.
Before we could take part in the gift-giving, she first had to open up all the of mail that had accumulated while she was away. Care packages from family and friends back home were stuffed into boxes. Unsure of what to do with most of the items, she began handing things out that she knew others would enjoy. Mike and Ike candy, books, magazines, decks of cards, even phone cards. As she picked through her pile, we all went inside to find the packages with our names on them and bring them out to the patio to rest underneath our tree.
Once everyone had retrieved their gift from their Secret Santa, we stood in a circle and watched as each person opened their gifts. Some were hilarious pranks, some were items that we had been watching at the post exchange, others were gifts that were surely needed in the cold weather. I received an Air Force hooded sweatshirt for nights we would go to the gym. The limited number of civilian clothes I brought along with me were no match for the brutal weather here at night. The sweater was sure to get much usage in the coming weeks.
The funniest gift was from one of the Corporals to a Lieutenant. While he was away, he has asked fellow Marines to get a gift for his Secret Santa. That was his first mistake. Those Marines found an image of him in full gear looking off into the sunset and printed out a poster two feet wide by three feet long. When the Lieutenant unrolled the posted, a look of shock and awe overtook here. The rest of us knew about the prank and forced ourselves to hold back our laughs as she stood speechless. Once we told her the story behind everything, we presented her with the real gift he had gotten for her.
Some of the other gifts included a hand-crafted wooden pig, stuffed animals, a shot glass and flask set, a journal, and a man-bag. Yes, a man bag. All in all, we made a good decision to put off our holiday activity until we were all together. For the majority of them, they had been together for almost a year here in the desert and they wanted to make this holiday season one to remember. Though I had only been with them for two months, they all welcomed me as the “Plus One” to their Marine Corps gatherings. As they will be leaving soon and other Marines take their place here in Iraq, I will definitely miss the good times that I’ve shared with them. From the early days of building our patio through the New Years holiday, we had grown close. The bond between servicemembers is greater than any bond in the civilian sector. I volunteered to serve these months in Iraq and if given the chance to serve with these Marines again, I wouldn’t hesitate to volunteer once more.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Day 27 - Another General Day
Since being here in Iraq, I’ve been given several opportunities that I may not have received back in the States. I’ve had the chance to work with people of a different nation, work with people of different services, and work with agencies that you would normally see in an action-packed movie. Dining with General Petreaus seemed to be the highlight of my time in Iraq. There aren’t too many people who can say they were invited to have Christmas lunch with the Commander of CENTCOM. My deployment had gotten off to a great start. There was very little that could make it better – or so I thought.
A late day in December, I was asked by my supervisor if I would be interested in having dinner with the Commandant of the Marine Corps, another 4-Star General. He would also be accompanied by the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Excited and honored, I accepted. Little did I know that I has less than an hour to get ready for the event.
After changing into a clean uniform and brushing up my appearance, I headed over to the bus stop to catch a ride to the other side of camp. After waiting for what seemed like hours, a bus finally arrived and I was on my way. Once arriving at the chow hall, I hurried inside to the table where several others were waiting. The visitors had not yet arrived so I was still in good shape.
Upon his arrival, he was accompanied by several others, ranging from 1- to 3-Star Generals, Colonels, and a host of other officers and high-ranking enlisted members. Sitting next to a Sergeant Major from Japan and across from the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, we dined while making conversation with one another. Ironically, the Sergeant Major to my right was interested in motorcycles and we had a rather lengthy discussion of bikes and riding courses.
After chatting for an hour and a half, well past closing time for the chow hall, we all lined up to get in a few group photos. Within 72 hours, I had eaten with two 4-Stars and the entourage that accompanied them. The best part – at both events, I was the only Air Force person. I felt the huge honor of representing my branch of service during the two distinguished visits.
As the days here have began to become routine, a visit from a high-ranking official is a welcomed change of pace. Most would love (or be afraid) to have dinner with a General but I looked forward to the moment… twice. Adding another coin to my collection, I’ve added another story to pass on to friends and family back home once I return.
A late day in December, I was asked by my supervisor if I would be interested in having dinner with the Commandant of the Marine Corps, another 4-Star General. He would also be accompanied by the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Excited and honored, I accepted. Little did I know that I has less than an hour to get ready for the event.
After changing into a clean uniform and brushing up my appearance, I headed over to the bus stop to catch a ride to the other side of camp. After waiting for what seemed like hours, a bus finally arrived and I was on my way. Once arriving at the chow hall, I hurried inside to the table where several others were waiting. The visitors had not yet arrived so I was still in good shape.
Upon his arrival, he was accompanied by several others, ranging from 1- to 3-Star Generals, Colonels, and a host of other officers and high-ranking enlisted members. Sitting next to a Sergeant Major from Japan and across from the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, we dined while making conversation with one another. Ironically, the Sergeant Major to my right was interested in motorcycles and we had a rather lengthy discussion of bikes and riding courses.
After chatting for an hour and a half, well past closing time for the chow hall, we all lined up to get in a few group photos. Within 72 hours, I had eaten with two 4-Stars and the entourage that accompanied them. The best part – at both events, I was the only Air Force person. I felt the huge honor of representing my branch of service during the two distinguished visits.
As the days here have began to become routine, a visit from a high-ranking official is a welcomed change of pace. Most would love (or be afraid) to have dinner with a General but I looked forward to the moment… twice. Adding another coin to my collection, I’ve added another story to pass on to friends and family back home once I return.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Day 26 - Christmas Has Gone, Here We Remain
Now that Christmas has gone here in Iraq, things are sure to go back to how they were pre-holiday. Long work hours, no days off, and more urgent matters requiring urgent attention. What have I learned during my first holiday season away from home? What have I learned during my first holiday season spent in the cold desert known as Iraq?
The first thing would have to be the support of the American people. A nation of millions, split between those who do or do not support the war, all seem to support the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians who serve here. I have received care packages and cards from people I have never once met in my life. These are people who care about the welfare of the troops who sacrifice not only during the holidays but for months at a time. A particular group of care packages that stand out in my mind the most came from a Girl Scout group back in my hometown. I had never interacted with these young girls, never heard a word spoken from them, never seen a smile on their face. But as three boxes were delivered to my office one early December day, it was apparent I would not be completely alone during the holidays. Filled with cards and goodies that would last me for weeks, I knew then there were people back home who really cared. To the girls of Prisco 55 and Better Group, I thank you for the kindness you have shown m this holiday season. Words cannot express how thankful I am to have made contact with you.
Another lesson I’ve learned here is how open the Iraqi population is to American culture. As I ride across camp on one of the several bus lines, American music is sure to be heard as the local drivers nod their head. Each driver has his own taste, be it rock, oldies, R&B, or Hip Hop. If I were ever looking to catch up on newly released tracks, it was sure to be heard on one of the busses throughout the day. The biggest indication of how the Iraqi people have accepted the American presence here – they’ve recently declared Christmas an official holiday. While sitting in the chow hall, it was on every news channel when the official word came down. Just knowing this occurred is a tremendous stride for the men and women who have worked so hard over the past few years. Being here, deployed to Iraq during Christmas as it happened, is a memory that I will have forever.
The final lesson that I’ve experienced time and time again here in Iraq – the importance of family. Yes, family we’ve all left behind in the States play a great role in our lives here. Bu for most, the family I speak of refers to fellow brother- and sisters-in-arms. From the moment our boots touched ground, we only have each other to depend on. Whether we’ve working side by side in an office, patrolling the streets, or sleeping two to a room, we have all become family. Evidence of this can be seen everywhere. When a Soldier needs a spotter in the gym, a Marine is happy to step up and assist. Went a Seaman needs help with a failing computer system, an Airman isn’t far behind with the right tools for the job. On duty and off duty, we have all become a family in this unstable, but improving, country. Nightly activities sponsored by different units promoted friendships, created bonds, and renewed once-broken connections. Here, we have no enemies amongst us. Every one is a friend – a brother or a sister.
Now that Christmas has gone and a year will pass before it arrives again, here we will remain until the fight is done. A slow process burdened with setbacks and challenges. We will stay here until every person comes home. He we remain through the hours of the night, the chill of the winter and the heat of the summer, rain or shine. Staying true to an oath we all took the very first time we raised our right hands, we serve with honor. Likewise, we are honored to have the support of a nation thousands of miles away. We will return home one day, arriving to groups with open arms and open hearts. Until that time comes, we will continue our mission that we have been sent here to do. Until that precious day arrives, here we will remain.
The first thing would have to be the support of the American people. A nation of millions, split between those who do or do not support the war, all seem to support the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians who serve here. I have received care packages and cards from people I have never once met in my life. These are people who care about the welfare of the troops who sacrifice not only during the holidays but for months at a time. A particular group of care packages that stand out in my mind the most came from a Girl Scout group back in my hometown. I had never interacted with these young girls, never heard a word spoken from them, never seen a smile on their face. But as three boxes were delivered to my office one early December day, it was apparent I would not be completely alone during the holidays. Filled with cards and goodies that would last me for weeks, I knew then there were people back home who really cared. To the girls of Prisco 55 and Better Group, I thank you for the kindness you have shown m this holiday season. Words cannot express how thankful I am to have made contact with you.
Another lesson I’ve learned here is how open the Iraqi population is to American culture. As I ride across camp on one of the several bus lines, American music is sure to be heard as the local drivers nod their head. Each driver has his own taste, be it rock, oldies, R&B, or Hip Hop. If I were ever looking to catch up on newly released tracks, it was sure to be heard on one of the busses throughout the day. The biggest indication of how the Iraqi people have accepted the American presence here – they’ve recently declared Christmas an official holiday. While sitting in the chow hall, it was on every news channel when the official word came down. Just knowing this occurred is a tremendous stride for the men and women who have worked so hard over the past few years. Being here, deployed to Iraq during Christmas as it happened, is a memory that I will have forever.
The final lesson that I’ve experienced time and time again here in Iraq – the importance of family. Yes, family we’ve all left behind in the States play a great role in our lives here. Bu for most, the family I speak of refers to fellow brother- and sisters-in-arms. From the moment our boots touched ground, we only have each other to depend on. Whether we’ve working side by side in an office, patrolling the streets, or sleeping two to a room, we have all become family. Evidence of this can be seen everywhere. When a Soldier needs a spotter in the gym, a Marine is happy to step up and assist. Went a Seaman needs help with a failing computer system, an Airman isn’t far behind with the right tools for the job. On duty and off duty, we have all become a family in this unstable, but improving, country. Nightly activities sponsored by different units promoted friendships, created bonds, and renewed once-broken connections. Here, we have no enemies amongst us. Every one is a friend – a brother or a sister.
Now that Christmas has gone and a year will pass before it arrives again, here we will remain until the fight is done. A slow process burdened with setbacks and challenges. We will stay here until every person comes home. He we remain through the hours of the night, the chill of the winter and the heat of the summer, rain or shine. Staying true to an oath we all took the very first time we raised our right hands, we serve with honor. Likewise, we are honored to have the support of a nation thousands of miles away. We will return home one day, arriving to groups with open arms and open hearts. Until that time comes, we will continue our mission that we have been sent here to do. Until that precious day arrives, here we will remain.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Day 25 - Christmas Has Come
Awaking at 11am, I began to get dressed to head off for a lunch I would remember for the rest of my time in the military, if not the rest of my life. A few days earlier, I was asked to submit information on my job and responsibilities while serving here in Iraq. Not knowing the full extent of the request, I completed it and turned it in, never thinking too much about it. The previous day I found out that I would be a guest of honor for a very distinguished person – General David Petraeus, commander of Central Command (CENTCOM).
I had been one of ten individuals selected to dine with the 4-star General that afternoon. In all, there were six Marines, two Sailors, one Soldier, and myself. It was a huge honor to be selected to represent the Air Force here on this base for the high-visibility visit. Not only was this a success for the Air Force and my unit back home, this was a personal success for myself as well.
As the General entered the dining facility, surrounded by several armed military members, cameras began to flash. There were numerous photographers and videographers on scene, ready to capture every moment of the event. Walking around the table, he greeted each of us with a firm handshake, asking our names and where we worked. After being invited to sit, we were able to relax as he went around the table with questions for each of us.
Though I can’t go into detail about what was exactly discussed at the table, the one central theme most of us young warriors portrayed was how we celebrated Christmas in Iraq. For most, it was our first deployment. For others, it was their first time away from family for the holiday season. Varying in time, we were deployed between two and eleven months at the time. Some were weeks from going home. Others, like myself, still had several months ahead of them.
Seeing so many stars is an inspiring ordeal. Before me sat a man who had served for over 33 years, and was recently assigned the duty of the top commander for all of CENTCOM. Sharing his experiences, he divulged that he never believed he would make it to the rank he now holds. As he went around the table, there were a few of us who had aspirations to go from being enlisted to officers once we completed our bachelors degree.
Along with the General, there were also 3-Star Generals, 2-Star Generals, Colonels, and a host of other brass floating around, sitting within arms reach of us. As we dined and conversed, many made it a point to walk past our table to get a glimpse of what was going on, pulling out digital cameras to capture the moment as well. In an odd sense, I was not afraid to be in his presence. Yes, he was the one of the few people who could decide our future in Iraq, Afghanistan, and every other country covered in his command. At the same time, he was just that – a person.
After we had all dined on a great meal prepared by the dining facility staff, we stood next to the Christmas decorations to take several group photos. Before the blinding camera flashes took place, we were each presented with a General’s Coin. For those who know the tradition behind military coins, having a 4-star coin in your collection was something to be very proud of. As he stood splitting our group, five warriors on each side, dozens of photographer lined up before us, getting as many shots as they could before the General had to depart.
For Christmas, many will brag about gifts they received, compare monetary values, or compare presents with relatives and friends. For us here in Iraq, we had something to really brag about. We were serving a great country in a time of need, making the ultimate sacrifice of being away from loved ones, ensuring a better tomorrow. In the process, we also took home a coin that few can say they were personally presented by the Commander of CENTCOM. What a great way to spend a Christmas.
I had been one of ten individuals selected to dine with the 4-star General that afternoon. In all, there were six Marines, two Sailors, one Soldier, and myself. It was a huge honor to be selected to represent the Air Force here on this base for the high-visibility visit. Not only was this a success for the Air Force and my unit back home, this was a personal success for myself as well.
As the General entered the dining facility, surrounded by several armed military members, cameras began to flash. There were numerous photographers and videographers on scene, ready to capture every moment of the event. Walking around the table, he greeted each of us with a firm handshake, asking our names and where we worked. After being invited to sit, we were able to relax as he went around the table with questions for each of us.
Though I can’t go into detail about what was exactly discussed at the table, the one central theme most of us young warriors portrayed was how we celebrated Christmas in Iraq. For most, it was our first deployment. For others, it was their first time away from family for the holiday season. Varying in time, we were deployed between two and eleven months at the time. Some were weeks from going home. Others, like myself, still had several months ahead of them.
Seeing so many stars is an inspiring ordeal. Before me sat a man who had served for over 33 years, and was recently assigned the duty of the top commander for all of CENTCOM. Sharing his experiences, he divulged that he never believed he would make it to the rank he now holds. As he went around the table, there were a few of us who had aspirations to go from being enlisted to officers once we completed our bachelors degree.
Along with the General, there were also 3-Star Generals, 2-Star Generals, Colonels, and a host of other brass floating around, sitting within arms reach of us. As we dined and conversed, many made it a point to walk past our table to get a glimpse of what was going on, pulling out digital cameras to capture the moment as well. In an odd sense, I was not afraid to be in his presence. Yes, he was the one of the few people who could decide our future in Iraq, Afghanistan, and every other country covered in his command. At the same time, he was just that – a person.
After we had all dined on a great meal prepared by the dining facility staff, we stood next to the Christmas decorations to take several group photos. Before the blinding camera flashes took place, we were each presented with a General’s Coin. For those who know the tradition behind military coins, having a 4-star coin in your collection was something to be very proud of. As he stood splitting our group, five warriors on each side, dozens of photographer lined up before us, getting as many shots as they could before the General had to depart.
For Christmas, many will brag about gifts they received, compare monetary values, or compare presents with relatives and friends. For us here in Iraq, we had something to really brag about. We were serving a great country in a time of need, making the ultimate sacrifice of being away from loved ones, ensuring a better tomorrow. In the process, we also took home a coin that few can say they were personally presented by the Commander of CENTCOM. What a great way to spend a Christmas.
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