Greetings, all.
I haven't blogged in a while because I've been in Iraq and quite busy. I just wanted to drop a line saying I'm back and to check in with you guys.
Just a few updates:
First, the sad news. I lost the first person I actually knew. I don't want to throw his name out on a political blog because I don't know his family's politics. I don't know how they would feel about it so I will just say a few words about him anonymously.
He used to be one of my Soldiers and he was as squared away as they come. He joined the US Army much older than most and his age and maturity were always apparent. Almost everyone in the Army will have personality conflicts from time to time, it's only natural. But through his work ethic and steadfast professionalism it's safe to say there was absolutely nobody who did not like this paratrooper. He was as intelligent and kind as he was hard working. I was shocked and saddened when I heard him named as the KIA. He will be a great loss to all of us. Whether he was in the Army or not, the world was a better place with him in it.
I'm an infantryman but during this deployment I was stuck working in a non-infantry capacity. In a few months I will be attending BNOC (Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course) and then being sent back to an infantry line unit. I'm looking forward it and I'm hoping I can quickly shake off the rust after being off the line for so long.
After much consideration I've decided to leave the military when my contract is up and finally go after my degree. I have a year and a few months to go, so there is a chance I might get stop-lossed for the next deployment. I haven't picked my major yet and I want to do a lot of research before I decide. I've always had an aptitude and a love of mathematics and science, particularly astronomy so I'm going to start there. I want to pick a degree that combines what I enjoy with what is practical and marketable.
I purchased my first home while I was deployed, and I'm finally getting to live in it :)
Last, I'm looking forward into being more involved and caught up with politics at home. From afar it seems the Democrats face a lot of challenges, especially on the healthcare front. It seems the country as a whole is still vulnerable to lies and deception. Keep spreading the truth, it's the best we can do.
Good day, all.