Back to Iraq

I Think It's Over

2007-07-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

Why We Came:Two choices in this world: Glad to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

Well my friends, I tried to leave Atlanta but my flight was delayed...AGAIN. Then the plane we were to get on had a defect in the door so they delayed THAT flight and got us another plane.

But I made it! Yes I'm home. For a few days, anyway.

Getting on the plane I met a nice kid from Switzerland. He decided to visit the West side of America so I offered to show him around San Diego. See us with twin skateboards in the picture:

That's right, back to business! Oh, and no need to worry, I got my hair cut back down to "normal" (read: boring) since then.

However, I think my exciting days in the Middle East are over for now. Time for a new career, time to enjoy the paradise I live in and my homeland. I'm proud of who we are, what we do, and the souls we served.

Thank you so much for joining me on my adventures and who knows, maybe we'll see you around...

God Bless America!

A Strange Trip Indeed

2007-07-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

This is not IraqA park in Auburn, Alabama.

Hey! At least I made it to America! The trip back has been delayed repeatedly from Iraq, Kuwait, and now Georgia. Therefore, I enjoyed a few days in Kuwait, checked out a few malls, walked along the beach, started working on my tan, and most importantly…enjoyed a few days off, finally!! Yeah, they had me working up until my last day, until the first flight delay...in Iraq.

But when I got to the Eastern seaboard of the U.S. to finish up some business there, my luggage was lost. That’s right, airlines fault. I should have been on the beach in San Diego by now. But like I say, I’m enjoying it anyway.

I visited Alabama, no less, waiting for my luggage to be returned. Beautiful place, actually. So GREEN after the Middle East. The keep it very clean too. And there are flags and patriotic displays everywhere. And churches dot the landscape instead of mosques. And the temperature is a about 25 degrees cooler.

Yes, I think I will like it back in the US…if I can only can get all the way home.

Freedom Towers, KuwaitThese towers commemorate the freedom won for the people of Kuwait by us....Americans!

A room with a viewSweet digs in Kuwait, view of the ocean thru the huge picture window. Did I mention the pool? Yeah, if you are stranded, it's not always a bad thing.

Can you miss a T-wall?

2007-07-01T14:32:00.001-07:00

My favorite place...
On American bases and other places, T-walls are cement barriers that fit together to form blast-resistant walls. They are placed around anything important. I like to climb them. It helps break the monotony of things, but would never be allowed in a safe place like...America, land of the free, strangely enough. I will miss them.Lest you thing I am a lone lunatic, I was able thrice to entice people to join me on the wall to install satellite gear. My friend Jason joined me of his own free will and choice.

That Was Quick

2007-06-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Well friends, my work on this short contract is about up. I will take a break in America before finding another contract. Or maybe I’ll stay home for awhile, but right now I need a rest to see the loved ones and all that good stuff.

On the fun side, I had to take another trip into the Grey Zone. (Sorry, Maureen) Some really funny stuff happened, but I can’t tell you about it. Part of it was running into these guys. We couldn’t really speak each other’s language, but they were nice enough. Plus, they had no guns, a real bonus.

The rest of the story will have to wait, for now.

If anything interesting happens on the way home, you will know.
These guys are funny...

Slowin' it Down

2007-06-09T05:31:00.000-07:00

The majority of our contract here in Baghdad has been filled. We are moving people to other sites, mostly back in the US. Anyway, a new group is coming in here to armor up some Tanks soon.

Not to much new and exciting for me, although I did get to drive outside the wire to the grey zone. It’s not out in the red zone but there are no US soldiers there, only Iraqi Army. Kind of interesting.

Met a nice Iraqi girl and guy, both grew up in Baghdad. They say it is better and worse now. Before it was more peaceful but they were very very poor. Now they can make good money but the terrorists are out there.

Now, you may remember that I got to fly on a Blackhawk but forgot my camera. A friend went for a flight over Baghdad and here are two shots from his camera instead. Pretend it was me. The one above, Saddam’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the great Iraqi war with Iran. The other, proof of how hard it is to take a shot from a vibrating helicopter…

Is This a Practical Joke?

2007-05-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

Here at our great Armor Operation, I have worn many hats. I keep the computers and network up and running, track down special part-orders, and solve some on-the-spot hang-ups. This morning for example, I righted a porta-potty that had blown over last night. Yeah, nice, I know.

I hang armor and keep the MWR fridge stocked with cold water for the crew.

This morning I was mopping, no less, when our austere-seeming Site Lead popped in the door for a second. He is usually quick to point out what you can do better, but this morning he said to me, “I want you to know we really do appreciate the things and the work you do for us.”

I thought, “wow, he’s taken to sarcasm.” But he handed me this little medallion. Well, practically threw it at me and ran. But I think he was sincere. And if I don’t say so myself, I have tried to be a valuable asset to the program. After all, they do pay me well.

It says “In Recognition of Excellence” on it. Now I’ve learned from a Great Man of God that sometimes people will think evil of you, and sometimes they give you accolades, and to believe none of it! But sometimes it is nice to receive some recognition, especially if it is in the form of a nifty and memorable golden coin. Here it is for your perusal:

Front

Back

Hot or Not

2007-05-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

Australian pool at Victory
So temps hit 105 for awhile and then cool rain came in for 3 days, was that nice! But the temps have been crawling back up. Today we hit 110 and tomorrow 115 is forecast for a high. Yippee!

The good news? Well, the boys here have been chasing the little group that shot down all the helicopters back in January and got in a fight. Guess who lost? That’s right, the bad guys. The bonus? The leader of the group (now no more) was a highly wanted insurgent.

Also in Afghanistan a particularly powerful terrorist apparently master-minded an ambush on American troops. Though pinned down, the good guys held their tenuous position and when backup many hours later, the ambush was reversed. The big bad boy tried slipping away in the night but was cut down by the good guys who only noticed moving targets. The troops will receive honors for their heroic effort.

One more: in Ramadi, a formerly hot place, militarily speaking, great progress has been made. I believe they dropped from over a hundred bombs a week one month to about 7/week recently. Only 7 bombings a week--I guess that is good.

Meanwhile, it gets hotter and hotter…

Rule Breaker

2007-05-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

(remember, click to enlarge pictures)
No, I'm not talking about me this time. I guess there is some kind of rule over here that you shouldn’t fly the American Flag. It might offend someone? Already fulfilled is the scriptural reference to the last days which says “and they shall make a man an offender for a word.” And the flag stands for freedom, bravery, and sacrifice. Those are very offensive words now-a-days! Especially to Al-Qaeda.

Well, one thing to say for my company is that rule is proudly, eh, overlooked, if a rule it is. Up went the American Flag on a shiny pole. Flags are coming in from around the States saying they would be proud to have their flag hoisted over our command center.

So the flag is posted where it flitters fitfully in the dust-filled breeze, and I take a picture to be sent back with the flag.

It does my soul good to see Old Glory--guess I’m old fashioned. I remember being in Fallujah and bless those Marines, there were many flags flying there. I remember the British too proudly displayed their colors. And now I am proud to show our Blessed Banner flying here.

Your photographer never is in the group shots because he is the one shooting the shot. So here is his day:

Camp Slayer and...the Flintstones?

2007-05-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

Internet Cafe for Soldiers

Whew! We moved from one of the many cracking husks of a building that dot the Iraqi landscape into some nice new trailers. Including key systems in communications; I have been buried in ethernet lines, fiber cable, digging trenches, and whatnot!

Starting to catch up, I was favored by the gods (upper management) and got a hour or two to splunk around a bit. And what did I discover? Camp Slayer. Camp Slayer is beautiful. And I forgot my camera AGAIN! Fortuitously, (the coincidence uncanny) the main DA civilian that helped us do "coms" has his office right there and I borrowed his cam. Not quite as proficient as mine, it nonetheless saved the day.

Why?

Because, I’m telling you, Camp Slayer is BEAUTIFUL! Palm trees, lakes, villas, palaces, a partially sunken boat house….what’s that doing there? Anyway, it’s like stepping into a tropical paradise. Loosely speaking. But compared to the rest of this place…

Anyway, if you drive past the first building bombed in the war, turn right at the Perfume Palace, and go around the lake to the Unfinished Palace, guess, you’ll never guess where, you end up? At the Flintstone Castle.

That’s right! Now, you can’t believe everything you hear over here but word has it Saddam really had a thing for the Flintstones. Yeah, the cartoon. The AMERICAN…well anyway. Or actually, his grandkids did so he built them the Flintstone Castle here.

And I like it! It’s kinda like something you’d find at Disneyland or 6 flags, but even better because there are NO LINES and NO RULES!

YES!

It’s big, it’s fun, it’s falling apart but--I guess I’ll be a kid forever--I jumped all over it. I wandered and wondered through the rooms, ran along the passages, leaped from faux rock to façade stone, and wished the elevator still worked. Oh yeah, there are multiple floors, levels, and corridors to discover.

Iraq. Who would have guessed?

This is THE first building bombed at the beginning of "shock and awe." A Baathist Party building, it was a bad time to have a corner office with a view...

A nice little Villa, no? Si!

The Unfinished Palace. Flintstone Castle off to the left

Flintstone Castle

2007-05-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

Take a video look-around from Flintstone Castle here--> Ernest Views Flintstone

A View of Flinstone Castle and Camp Slayer:
I could be happy here.Perfume Palace in the distance behind me.

Why, there’s Fred Flintstone now…or is that my boss?
It was dark in the interior rooms and I didn't bring a flashlight, but shot this in the dark. Looks like the Flintstone living room, don't you think?

Gung Ho

2007-04-29T10:30:00.001-07:00

My work described to you would probably sound of tedium and yawningness. So I share the words of yet another hero: Private First Class Ryan Ho. Young Ho heard stories of the first gulf war as a child and the recent one as a teenager. Looking for a direction, he signed up.
Ryan Ho

“I knew we were in a time of war, I knew it’s not going to be easy,” said the Hawaiian native. “But I want to help people and I’m willing to make the sacrifice.” About his decision to go to Iraq he said:

“I was worried, I was scared. My dad was also worried but he tried to hide it. My mom was freaking out.” Ho’s reasons for sticking to his decision were simple.

“It’s risky, but it has to be done. And I’m here because I choose to be and because someone needs to step up and do something.” After a month in theater, Ho says, “I thought it would be a lot more crazy here. It’s a lot more under control than I thought.”

In his short time, his unit has run across a couple of roadside bombs and been under fire by a sniper. But he has no regrets.

“I made the right decisions. I know some people say that joining the military would be crazy and that this war is stupid. But I know that I’m doing something that will have a positive influence on people.”

So this is Ernest signing off for another week, most likely. But thought I share this great American’s words.

Respect and Commeradery

2007-04-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

And the hits just keep on coming. A week or two ago one of our up-armored Bradley’s took a hit. Everyone walked away. The armor has proven effective. Then just in the last day or two, a fighting vehicle took an armor piercing round. Our armor again protected the driver and reduced casualties.

This is good. Along with a good all-around job, it’s good to know our teams are making a difference. We are now opening a second facility on another base. The original number of requested armored vehicles in contract has been almost doubled. We’ll be here a bit longer.

I’ve also read reports that, along with the surge in troop numbers, came a change in the manner that Iraqi troops and police are trained. Full coalition units are deploying with the Iraqis instead of just sending a few trainers or observers. The Iraqis are learning quicker and taking pride in their accomplishments.

American soldiers are reporting now that, instead of the American soldiers always pulling the wounded Iraqi soldiers to safety in a firefight, Iraqi soldiers are now rescuing American counter-parts as well. The respect and commeradery are growing.

Iraqi men deem it a great honor now to join the Iraqi forces and fight for their country. All these things seem to me to be some kind of light at the end of the tunnel. But there is of course still much to do.

Keeping Cool

2007-04-16T01:13:00.000-07:00

Another Stryker Sunset

Hey, first can we talk about the weather? BEAUTIFUL. Mostly it is sunny and a few clouds. And it rains once a week. Temperature around 70. Usually the rainy season ends in February and the temps are climbing by now-- it is unusally cool and with moisture. We love it! How are you?

Antics

2007-04-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

a classic
To tell you the truth, we’ve just been workin’ hard here. As a multi-billion dollar, diverse company, I guess we’re used to getting to it. But when you are in a crazy place and the pressure is on, sometimes the color comes out. Here’s the milder of what I’ve seen…oh, and if you are really bored, click here to see why my nickname is always Spiderman---> Ernest Goes Ape. So here goes:

uh...boredom?

been here too long if you paint your office like this...

if it worked once...(pinch me I'm a redneck)

soldiers too...

no showers? no problem!

Sunday, Soldiers, and Prayer

2007-04-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

A few LDS soldiers in Kirkuk

Wherever I go it seems, the Lord sends some of the religious “home team” to be with me. That is, most bases have about 6 LDS soldiers at their meetings on Sunday. The interrogation unit here in Stryker is furbished by soldiers from Utah, so my church group is about 30 strong instead.

Today the soldiers testified of their faith. I get to hear them say they know God lives, that there is a purpose for everything, and hear them declare compassion for “the enemy.” I literally thank God for such men and women.

One soldier told us that “We all know that God is protecting us.” He says every time they go out the gate his group has a prayer. “It probably isn’t legal,” he says, "but we do it anyway." I know many of YOU are praying for both the soldiers and the people of Iraq as well.

And I think it works. Prayer, that is! Take these interesting statistics from an article in the New York Sun by Alicia Colon. According to a Department of Defense report, the number of military deaths of 4 consecutive years during the Clinton administration:
1,245 in 1993;
1,109 in 1994;
1,055 in 1995;
1,008 in 1996.
That's 4,417 "peacetime" deaths in 4 years.
4 years in Iraq? 3,260 since March 2003 (AP figure)

SINCE WHEN IS WAR SAFER FOR OUR SOLDIERS THAN PEACETIME?

I’d say some prayers were being heard.

I have pondered the miracles of lives saved. Working in armor, I have heard the stories often. I have heard them again: If you can accept the R-rated environment, you can hear one such story at this site:
Young Americans Documentary
in a clip called “Everybody Gets Blown Up.”

You may find the other video snippets similarly coarse but look past that to hear thoughts of American soldiers revealed, as well as the environment and purpose of their work here. If you are like me, you will be very proud of who we are and who we send to face the terrors of war, and how they handle it. Enjoy.

Always in the Fight

2007-03-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

Dosky, nickname KC (standing)
Where there is right and wrong, there is a fight. The best and worst are drawn to it. Some do not participate and some even taunt the heroes. Qasim Dosky has always been a fighter. This is his story:

As an adult, Dosky was part of a Kurdish band of fighters known as ephemera, who defied Saddam. Evacuated to Guam when the US pulled out of the Gulf war in the 1990s, he became a translator for soldiers. When that work was done he was offered a place in America, landing in Lincoln, Nebraska. Eventually he moved to San Diego.

In Southern California he eventually became a cab-driver. When the current Iraq conflict began, he welcomed the news. “I was so happy. The [U.S.] government finally decided to do the right thing that they should have done in 1991,” he said.

Dosky gathered members of the Kurdish community and stage marches in support of American troops. He gave free rides to service members. But he wanted to do more.

Applying to be a translator, he found himself in Fallujah. He wore himself out there and finally ended up in the relative calm of Kirkuk, still translating in service to both Iraq and America.

“If an American guy is willing to come to die in my country, I should be there next to him. I’ll be more of a help to the troops now. I’m staying here until the end, until we finish this mission,” he said.

In the upcoming days, Dosky is slated to become an American citizen. And in my book, one both he and his home country can be proud of.

He is very excited.

My adoption of a Stars and Stripes article, I like his story not only because of his unquenchable desire to fight for freedom, but I too have spent much time in San Diego, Kirkuk, and Fallujah. I too admire and serve the American Soldier. Dosky is my kind of hero.

The Team

2007-03-26T23:49:00.000-07:00

Group photo

I think Americans are absolutely awesome. Take the company I work for, for example.

I sat outside a meeting of the heads of our company here in Iraq. I listened to astute identification of hitches in our armoring process. Then a formulative meeting of the minds to solve it. Setbacks that could stop the process are absolved with no delay in the quality and quantity of our output: The newly-armored vehicles keep making it to the soldiers on or ahead of schedule. There is no company that does what we do as well as we do. And there are thousands of other American companies best in their perspective fields. And if we did fail, another would arise.

Even amongst the “lower” ranks of this company are also found the adept and self-motivated problem-solvers and solution providers. In contrast I observe the other nationalities represented on this military base….although there are brilliant exceptions, as a nation, none comes close to what we do. None takes the initiative, the expense, the risk, the leadership.

I've got more to say about Americans I admire. If this has whetted your appetite, you can read the rest at my other blog, "My America". Just click on: America Does

Our Soldiers ARE Rockstars

2007-03-24T22:29:00.000-07:00

From the life of a soldier: (this interview of Zeb Philpott by Sandra Jontz of the Stars and Stripes). I have selected some key phrases from the article for you to savor...

Capt. Philpott has spent 4 out of his 6 years as a Marine in Iraq and begins another.

“I’d love to come back and visit,” he said in a recent interview. “This country is absolutely beautiful. Its beauty is stark, raw.” He hopes to be able to come back to a safe Iraq one day as a tourist.

“In 2003, we came in [to towns and villages] and the people were real emotional, real appreciative….In some places we went through, we were like rock stars.”

He also recalls an elderly man exiting the polls in December 2005: “He came out, inky fingers, came out and hugs one of my sergeants. It was so unexpected. He’d said in his entire life this was the first time he felt part of the country. ‘Now I left my mark on this country,’” said Philpott, repeating the man’s words.

Looking back he also says there was a point just after the push into Iraq in 2003 in which he and his crew hadn’t showered in 42 days: “One of my corporals finally lost it one day and comes on the radio: ‘Sir, you stink,’ and clicks off.”

“You get pretty ripe,” he says. “Now living at TQ [a base] one can shower 6 times a day if work schedules permit…this is my fourth time back, and it’s almost comfortable,” he says, referring to living conditions.

Things are constantly evolving, and perhaps some Iraqis have taken a negative cue from world media, and there are memories he would also rather forget. But I thought Capt. Zeb’s words were worth noting. Another interview coming soon!

A Glimmer of Glamor

2007-03-23T21:51:00.000-07:00

You may be interested in this article (LA Times.com) of celebration and hope in downtown Baghdad; click here: HOLIDAY
Find out, for example, how an Iraqi girl responds to an Iraqi boy who says, "I wish I were always in your eyes." (paragraph 7)

Enjoy.

Workin'

2007-03-22T23:03:00.000-07:00

Iraq can be...beautiful?
Nothing new around here, no glorious trips to the palace or whatever--just doin‘ our thing. It’s been unusually cool and rainy here in Baghdad lately; that’s nice! So here’s our Sunset after rain--and another view from our work area where we often see helicopters flying over Saddam’s old bunkers.

But keep an eye out, soon I will have stories of two or three great persons I think you will find as inspiring as I did. Until then, things are relatively quiet here…
unloading a track vehicle

The Inside Skinny...

2007-03-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

Or…Changing Hearts:

Hilarious! A big bold headline in the Stars and Stripes dated today declared: AVERAGE WEEKLY ATTACKS HIT RECORD HIGH IN IRAQ (AP Story, March 17, 2007) Then you read the story, it refers to Jan-Feb. 4th??? Over a month ago??? And very different from this past month: Civilian deaths were down over 80%! Soldiers here scratch their heads over the Iraq they live in and the other one they read about. So do we.

I’d say the majority of Iraqis have been onboard and excited for their new freedom and country, but two die-hard areas with fanatics have remained and resisted. But even now it appears many of those Iraqis are being won over by the irresistible patience and zeal of Americans on their behalf.

The change?

The Sunnis, who thought al-Qaida might help them punish America for removing them from power have found they are targets too. Al-qaida learned that blowing up school children and market places brings them LARGE HEADLINES. Sunnis, finding their own children targeted, are deciding America makes better friends. Plus, they have decided to participate in the new political process, rather than protest, lest they be cut out of the oil profits.

It is believed that Shiite fanatics were mostly lead by Al-Sadr and supported by Iran. At the threat of the surge, Al-Sadr fled to Iran and his militia disappeared into the woodwork, perhaps hoping for coalition forces to abandon Iraq. It is believed he and his men were responsible for 50 be-headings, kidnappings, and executions a day!

Anyway. Sunnis rejecting Al-qaida. Al-Sadr away. Violence way down. It seems these particular Sunnis and Shiites are deciding that terrorism is not providing safety or jobs and they are getting tired of the lack of both.

The numbers already show huge changes. Just to name one that is representative: 1440 Iraq civilians killed the preceding month, only 256 in this first month of the “surge.” High-profile car bombings, road bombs, soldier deaths, all SHARPLY down. Awesome! I have always believed that American and Iraqi will combined could win over any foe.

Just had to set the record straight. Next month may be another story, but this has been a great month for Iraq!

Though Sunni, Shiite, and Kurdish adults all see Americans in different shades of like and dislike; children are constant--regardless of background.
And what's not to like about these loyal, couragous, and boyish heroes?

Gettin' to Work

2007-03-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

We set the place up, cleaned, shined, designed, and now we are on the case; armoring up the Bradley Track Vehicles to better withstand attack. This will be a photo essay...I'll let the pics do the talking. Actually, I really can't show you much, so just enjoy the colors...
Checkin' out the new ride:
applying secret stuff
tap and drill, what a thrillHindsight is 20-20 (we should have bought larger suits)

IT'S NOT ME

2007-03-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

My lil' sister gasped when first reading this headline at FoxNews.com:

Ernie is Dead: Web Correspondent Michael Yon Reports From Iraq

Yes, this Ernest is alright. But I've always admired and envied the author of this article, Michael Yon, and his Iraq blog--he is/was a live reporter here, riding with the troops on their missions. Great work. His site is also linked at my other blog; Ernest Goes to Iraq

Here in his article he eulogizes another great: Ernie Pyle. Please read, but know that I will still be around for a long while...I'll be OK, Mom. And thanks for the tip, Sis!

Royal Treatment

2007-03-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

Palace at Victory
The office was in disarray: internet down! Bradley Combat Operations were faltering, tech experts had been called in and still no solution! Who ya gonna call, the mechanic? Durn right!

Seems in my spare time at Kirkuk I studied satellite broadband and wireless internet and deployed two internet hotspots for my co-workers and soldiers out of sheer boredom and a severe entrepreneurial urge I can’t seem to control.

Somehow the word of said experience got around here and I was called in to glance at our issues. Sure enough, in a few hours the office network was back online. But seriously, this melodramatic self-aggrandizing story is not what you’ll be interested in. The point is, I’m the new IT guy and... for certification they sent me to….THE Palace. (Guess who packed his camera?)

So; won’t you come with me for a tiny photo tour of… SADDAM‘s PALACE? Sure he’s gone, but the Krib of the Great Badness Hisself has been restored for, well, our enjoyment. Enjoy…(Click to enlarge)

Sparkling steps arc through spiral stairways...I call this the Ballroom:

Sheer Chandelier...a closer look at this lead-crystal monstrosity!

Can’t believe I am sitting on Saddam’s throne, that’s right! He used to sit in this chair and rule in terror. Now I sit in it and drool in error...

Things to do while at the Palace...

Sam's Story

2007-03-02T11:08:00.000-08:00

A young man in Iraq admired greatly American soldiers when they trained the Jordanians in the 80s. He used to dream about becoming one of them--a dream that, if known, could get him killed under Saddam. When the Coalition invaded Iraq, his dream came one step closer.

He had gotten a degree as a civil engineer but became a translator for the Marines, which he soon came to love. Now he talks like them, walks the swagger, and after 3 years of helping them is highly trusted and good friends with them. He often mitigates dangerous circumstances by cluing the soldiers in on what locals mention to him (like newly abandoned cars, often used for hiding bombs).

Speaking of the Marines, he says, “I love them. How they’re brave to do whatever the mission is, to always keep fighting. I’ve seen many Marines get killed and injured for people that are not his people. Guys 18, 19 years old. They protect me.”

Isn’t that awesome? Sam, by the way, is 25 and that is not his real name. Soldiers originally gave him the name of “Al Pacino,” but he changed it to Sam, “like Uncle Sam” he says grinning. He hopes to gain a special immigration status for his service, which brings both himself, his friends, and family into great danger.

“I want to be an American citizen, a Marine, have an American wife. Even my car will be American,” he says with his “trademark” enthusiasm. Asked how he envisions America, he says without hesitation: “Almost heaven!”

Well, isn’t that refreshing??? I stole this article, often word for word, from the Stars and Stripes newspaper over here, an interview by Megan McCloskey. Often this rag shamelessly echoes denigrating tripe that can often be heard stateside from the disconnected, but it also has these more relevant and positive articles by indigenous soldier reporters. Isn't it nice to hear a fun story? Thought I‘d share.

Location Location Location

2007-02-23T09:02:00.000-08:00

Is that Abu Ghraib behind me???
Wow, here I am within clear site of the Baghdad Airport Control tower--as seen on TV during the (amazingly successful) invasion. I can see it all day long from work. From my tent, close by, I hear helicopters, jets, anything that flys coming in and out of here all hours of the day. And night. But at least mail from America gets to me in 5 days, no less!

And, it turns out the prison right across the street from work...is Abu Ghraib??? That’s right, Saddam used to chill right here! In fact we had a BBQ on the other side of the prison wall the other night. Coalition members, palaces, dignitaries, all right here in the neighborhood.

At the DFAC (dinning facility) I sit next to or across from Iraqis that work here. They are polite and respectful and generally cheerful. I love watching them gaze at the huge amounts of food and pile their plates high. They deserve it--centuries of tyranny have left many of them in a third world situation even though they sit on an unimaginable wealth in black gold.

Only now, from here, their shot at democracy and prosperity is being secured. 85 Billion dollars a year and American bravery and blood fuel this giant engine of freedom. I think these people are worth it and I marvel that I am here at this virtual fulcrum of history. If the Middle East is ever civilized, it will have begun here.

Chemical warfare provides an opportunity for fashionable protective wear.

Bombs and Barbie

2007-02-22T01:37:00.000-08:00

This is so bizarre!!! Yesterday a chemical bomb went off in Baghdad. Today we were told to have our gas masks ready. And this is the only day I check the news and no bombing in Baghdad is reported??? I shouldn’t be surprised since over 300 chemical finds here as of 2006 seem to have escaped notice.

I’d also like to introduce a lovely fellow blogger and friend who has been championing around the world, including in the Middle-East, those who seek Democracy. Please visit M Barbay at http://www.mensa-barbie.blogspot.com/

She is a talented writer/reporter on issues I think are important too. Enjoy!

A co-worker and a green spot in an ocean of mud

Better Than Ice Cream

2007-02-18T09:14:00.000-08:00

Sunday. Found the chapel. Sitting in the pew I looked over and saw Ethan Carrasco. Now Ethan was The First LDS baptism in Kirkuk, Iraq; I was there for it 2 years ago! You may recall he was baptized by a guy named Nephi. (Check the link at my old blog Ernest Goes to Iraq here: Curiosity Did It) Anyway, it was so awesome to see him at church and to see that he was “still my brother in the Lord!”

We did some catching up…he had since re-enlisted and was stationed to Hawaii. His first day at the singles ward there he met a beautiful girl...and soon married her. Then he was deployed to Iraq. On his next return home, they will be sealed for “Time and All Eternity” at the Hawaiian Temple. Me? I am.......…still a mechanic.

ANYWAY…I asked him how the Mormon thing was working for him and he said, “Great!’ Well, yeah! We sang some hymns together but I didn’t get a picture of us at this time because he had to leave early for duty or a mission. But it was so great to see him again and it brought me great joy, just like Alma in Alma 17:2 when he meets "his bretheren." Yes, a good Sabbath indeed.

Back in Baghdad

2007-02-15T22:22:00.000-08:00

Big Air: C-17 Globemaster III
Got to fly in this giant bird, the C-17, with a bunch of soldiers deploying to the danger zone. A plane so big it’s like flying in an auditorium. It sure has a smooth landing though, perhaps because of its overbearing size.

I really like my new company. Since we will be armoring Bradleys, I am told I will get to learn how to drive a tank. How cool is that!!!

My home is now in Camp Stryker, near camps Victory and Liberty, vicinity Baghdad. This camp is growing by leaps and bounds; I’m guessing some of the troop surge will live here too. It’s so hilarious to hear politicians pretend we might be leaving when we just expand expand expand.

On the not so fun side, right now we are in tents and after the rain all last night we have water in the tent. Others in our crew had 2 inches of water on their tent floor. Mud gets EVERYWHERE. I really feel for the soldiers who are out in this stuff! But then again, in a month or so we won’t be seeing a cloud in the sky for a very long time.
Flying in the combat zone ~It's hard to smile in a chin strap~

Kuwait a Minute!

2007-02-12T00:52:00.000-08:00

First time in Kuwait. Still Winter so it’s a beautiful 65-70 degrees. Due to glitches we are here for a few days. Our rooms are right next to the beach -- darn! The people are friendly and I’m amazed that yet another country seems to be built entirely on sand…and the rich crude beneath it. But it really is just sand and buildings!

Most of the streets have no lanes painted on them and smashed vehicles are pretty much left by the roadside. Maybe as a warning to buckle up? The local currency is the Dinar (just like Iraq) except One Dinar is worth $3.50. Stranger? They use 1000ths of a dollar instead of hundreths. So a 95cent meal at McDonalds looks like this: .950 A dime is .100 It’s confusing at first but you just take off a zero and it makes cents, as it were. Also funny: they have ¼ and ½ Dinar bills. The motto on the money? “We Seek God’s Assistance”

We got your Harley-Davidson stores. There is also Pizza Hut, Burger King, Pepsi, Red Bull, you name it. It’s almost American here in many ways. There are many Eastern nationalities living together here in peace and tolerance and one wonders why it’s so hard in Iraq. I guess that is the ideological battle front for the media eye?

Anyway, it’s really fun to visit yet another country…and get paid for it! And soon, again, I will be Back in Iraq.
Beach view from my room at Dawn:

"We Seek God's Assistance"

This Shouldn’t Be Secret

2007-02-10T14:08:00.000-08:00

Just spent a week in Ft. Benning preping for another trip to the Middle East. We civilians marched lock-step with soldiers in formation with the Sergeant yelling LEFT, LEFT, LEFT RIGHT LEFT (and stuff like that) from station to station. Never having been in the service myself, I got a kick out of it. Two if I stepped out of line ;-) Even got my own dog-tags.

ANYWAY we were trained in Anti-Terrorism, Bomb recognition and reaction, how to treat open-chest and open abdominal wounds, and Army rules of conduct including LOW(Laws of War) and Army Values, to name a few.

I was very impressed. The whole operation was unusually efficient and the leadership was very respectful. Most people had a complaint as is human nature is wont to, but I have not seen such military proficiency/cordiality as I did here with Charlie Company in Ft. Benning. Did I mention the “free” food?

Particularly impressive were Army Values. Their acronym LDRSHIP is broken down as Loyalty, Duty, Responsibility, Service, Honor, Integrity, and Patriotism. The Standards are very high, noble, and reminiscent of the ideals of Christianity. I wish every American had to have this course!

The LOW(Laws of War) are also very impressive. Never to harm or steal from innocent civilians, care for a wounded enemy as soon as he is no longer a threat, don’t blow up anything you don’t have to, etc etc. When you consider the amazing duress under which soldiers operate and these high standards, you HAVE to be impressed how rare a major American-soldier screw-up is. In fact, it’s WORLD-WIDE news when it occurs. That’s impressive. Not to mention enemy soldiers often surrender because they know they will be better treated as American POWs than by their own army.

We are trained on GI-dummy; treating open abdominal wounds

From Germany to Georgia: Perspectives on War

2007-02-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

Talking to a German of some mental and philosophical acuity last week, he advised me that perhaps I’d better not mention to the average German that I had anything to do with Iraq. “Why?“ I asked. He said many Europeans think Americans are the equivalent of Nazis in Iraq, and that Guantanamo is like a concentration camp.

Isn’t that the thickest Irony that Americans are seen by Germans as Nazi-like??? Interestingly, he confessed readily that Europe would be run by the Nazis now if it weren’t for Americans, but lamented that his father lost 10 years of his life as prisoner of Americans in that same war. Your father came home healthy and whole though, didn’t he?” I asked.

So here I am in Ft. Benning. In-between seminars today, I caught a conversation between an older Iraqi translator gentleman(now an American citizen) and a Lady Lt.-Colonel. She was about to re-deploy to Afghanistan but when he found out she had served in Baghdad, he gushed forth with “Thank You Thank You Thank You” for her work in his country.

I talked with this lady Lt.-Colonel (whose name I did not catch) about that and she too saw much beauty in the Iraqi people. The whole experience was heart-warming and again I wished positive was more popular...

Taken by a soldier March 2004.

Somebody Stop Me!

2007-02-01T06:59:00.000-08:00

Switzerland, Austria, Germany…been there/done that…THIS WEEK. Switzerland is, of course BEAUTIFUL. The people are very fashionable. They independently use the Swiss Frank instead of the Euro. Most train stations and cities have wireless internet…now I can lose money on the stock market anywhere in the world! There are four main language areas, I stayed more in the German parts. Swiss pics:
My Swiss Watch:

Below: University at Zurich---all German-types like bluejeans and black (Winter)

Lucerne by Day and by Night

2007-02-01T06:55:00.000-08:00

Oesterreich und Deutschland

2007-02-01T06:44:00.000-08:00

I spent a little time in Austria, which is more often mountainous, where Switzerland had more lakes and rolling meadows mixed in with the inspiring peaks. Unfortunately the light did not cooperate in Austria and I have no pictures, but it is much like Germany in speech, landscape, and style. At least in west Austria. The east of Austria bears more of the influence of the former communist block countries. All three are heavily German influenced, the people are outdoors a lot and generally slender, fashionable, and diligent.

On my return to Germany I stayed in a nice hotel in Aschau, just north of Austria. Not enough snow to ski anywhere so I visited a castle and took a walk through the valley. See pics:
View from my train window-above, and an old bridge in Aschau, below

Have Fun Storming the Castle

2007-02-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Views of the Castle and From the Castle, first built around the 1300s here in Aschau, Germany

I'm a Nerd

2007-01-28T13:24:00.000-08:00

Oh how sweet it was to soak up the sun and gaze upon the blue ocean in Florida! For two weeks I relaxed, knowing the work ahead in Iraq. But there was a week before I report for training--after which we leave.

Sooooooooo…..I flipped a coin on Thursday: Bahamas or Germany. Ok, so I prayed a little too. But one day later I was crossing the Atlantic ocean once again. Now before you think I am some kind of rich playboy (the first part is not true) if I stay in America too long I lose some HUGE tax benefits. So…it pays to stay out when necessary.

So remember what I said about traveling? I got to the airport in Florida the plane was delayed due to weather in New Jersey! But Continental booked me immediately on an earlier delayed flight that was about to leave and I made my timely connection to Frankfurt.

Two days and I’ve already made some great new friends. One friend could very well be the future German James Bond. Chicks dig him, he cooks gourmet, and has a sleek Euro car (Volvo S60). He is about to get his Masters and may go on to Phd. But nice enough to volunteer me a tour of a castle in Heidelberg--see pic.

Anyway, so far, so good.

The future James Bond, ever conscious of his surroundings, checks over the Castle wall...

It Never Fails

2007-01-21T17:55:00.000-08:00

When I travel, great things happen. And miracles are not uncommon. For example, when I arrived in Baghdad a day late, but none the less just in time---I made it right back out the SAME DAY. This has never happened to me there. And there were people that had been stuck there for several days. Some how I gut shuffled through and caught my plane in time to get back to America and promply get hired for the job I wanted...back in Iraq.

But like I said, great things happen when I travel. Here in Boca Raton, Florida I was taken to lunch by Mr. Alan Hawkshaw and his lovely wife along with some young single adults. I am not young, but they think I am.

Anyway, you may not recognize his name but you will recognize his work. He wrote songs for TV, movies, for Olivia Newton-John, Barbara Streisand, as well as performing in his own groups, the Checkmates and Emil Ford. Click on his name to see. Rumors have it he worked with the Beatles too, very cool.

Anyway, he and his wife joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and are now serving a mission in Florida. It was fun to meet the Hawkshaws and hear their wisdom delivered in both the wit and accent of the English. I suspect more interesting things will happen before I leave... Alan Hawkshaw right rear, myself right front, his wife left front. Sushi has already been eaten.

If You Miss the 70s

2007-01-21T17:50:00.000-08:00

Iraq is for you!

I was sitting at the Baghdad Airport, which now has wireless internet by the way, if no more than 10 people get on it at once…
But anyway, the greatest thing about the upper class Iraqis here is they are still stylin’…from the 70s! Thin dark brown leather jackets, v-neck sweaters, brown leather shoes. Beige shirts with open collars and polyester slacks with a bell-bottom flare. And what outfit is not complete without a blue and orange horizontal-stripe polo? What about that green and orange plaid suit-coat?

For the ladies, a leopard-print head scarf really sets off that black burqa. Kids run around in faded denim jackets and jeans with sweater vests, little girls from the more progressive wealthy in denim mini-skirts with leggings and boots. It’s Winter here you know. I love it!

Saddam’s palaces are similarly decked out in the finest 70’s interior décor styles and colors. That era must have really done it here. Actually, I still listen to 70s rock and roll, which constitutes the most common-style radio programming in America from coast to coast. But I’m telling you, it’s a blast to step back in time and see it in live color. Brown, tan, and beige, that is.
If I took a picture at the airport though, I would probably be taken outside and summarily shot, so use your imagination.

For now, I leave--back to the future…

Good-bye Dubai...etc

2007-01-14T12:46:00.000-08:00

I had to book…in a Chinook, that is, a CH-47 dual-engine helicopter. Unfortunately it was at night this time and no exciting pics, darn again! A fast bird, it took about 20 minutes to fly to Baghdad, not very long at all. But fog kept us from flying for 24 hours before, and that was after a 4-hour wait! But getting out to go back to America still went unusually smooth.

That's right, I decided to part ways with my employer of about 2 years and join a company that I think will provide me with better opportunities and make better use of my particular skills. I hope to be coming back to Iraq within a few weeks but in the meantime I've decided to hang out at the beaches of Florida!

I visited Dubai again on the way out. Another sad thing is my getting a new company means I probably won't make it to Dubai again. I don't know why for sure, but I really like that place and I will miss it.

Above is a parting shot with my (ex)fellow employees. Good peeps.

I'll keep y'all posted as more details become available!

2007-01-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

This here is an amphibious tank. There are huge lakes here (yes, in Iraq) and these things can go anywhere. Here one is flying through the dusty "tank parking-lot" after a mission. Getting to dinner is also an important mission.

2007-01-14T12:16:00.000-08:00

Here I am trying not to get bucked off this GM 6.5liter turbo HMMWV engine that we were replacing. Notice we work in tents, or, intense, but sometimes not.

2007-01-14T12:14:00.000-08:00

The soldiers like to name their guns, tanks, trucks, etc. This "Get Some" big gun was parked right next to the "Hateful II" big gun.

2007-01-14T12:10:00.000-08:00

That's my friend Hill and some of the rest of our crew. We're all waiting for a particular rocket launch--these particular rockets can go very far and they go so fast that even from up close, you see the rocket halfway into the sky before you even hear the launch. Can't show you the rocket or many other things--classified, you know.

2007-01-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

Customized turrets and newer armor to react to terrorist threats. We have a nasty sniper around here so bulletproof glass and cover have been added to the turrets to help protect the gunner

2007-01-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

Winter Sunrise Camp Fallujah

2007-01-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the evening patrol in Fallujah

Better Now

2007-01-06T23:02:00.000-08:00

An LDS meeting in Fallujah Nov. 12, 2006 at the "Chaplain's Oasis"

I was just talking to Mormon Medic Marine (Captain?) May about casualites this week--it appears they are way down since Saddam swung. The media is wrong again--surprise surprise. We did have one bad day this week but deaths were way down and the medic said he had several unusually slow days. I'm glad to hear when work is slow for him.

We also talked about the wounded Iraqis we treat here and the wounded Marines. The Iraqis, it seems, whine and don't want to move for days because it hurts. The Marines want to be patched up and get right back to work, "I can still shoot with my 4th finger" he heard one wounded Marine say, hoping to go back to do his job.

We are going to do a group Fast for both soldiers and Iraqis this month, a spiritual focus on behalf of freedom this month. Seems that with just a little more the tide can turn even better.

As for me, big changes are afoot. More later...

I AM NOT KIDDING!

2006-12-31T02:21:00.000-08:00

You may remember "Contractor Ron" from my previous blog "Ernest Goes to Iraq." He and are of the same religion and we shared what seems to be a prepetual "still single" status, as well as being somewhat "advanced" in years.

After Kirkuk, we went our seperate ways but both of us have found our way Back to Iraq (Hence, this blog) Anyway, here is a most amazing email from him:

I have been busy.

Not just the normal busy with flying and catching bad guy.... but something even more important.

It took 53+ years and nearly a worldwide search, and I have found her.

A few months ago, while on a desert patrol, my radiator had boiled over and I went looking for water We met at an oasis.... I needed her water, she wanted a ride... a fair trade.... took her back to her tribe .... the sheik, her father, threw a big feast..... ever eat goat?.... with the hide still on?.... not wanting to insult him (and starving from three days without food) I dove in.... this impressed him... he took me under his wing..... before I knew it (and aided by some fermented camel's milk), I was deep in negotiation for his daughter.... He initially wanted 10,000 camels with all their trappings, to include silver bells!.... in my mentally deficient state, I saw, in this, a challenge---and jumped at it..... using my Africa-developed skills, I enjoyed the moment and got him down to six --- and brass, not silver, bells..... to my great surprise, he struck the deal!...... wow! did my jaw drop!..... but a deal's a deal, and besides - his sword is sharp and his AK has plenty of bullets, soooo you all now have a new daughter/sister/aunt/friend. I am even considered throwing in an extra camel (without trappings) just to get things going on the right foot with the old sheik.

Can you believe that??? Neither can I!!! But Ron seems quite serious. And in respect to our friendship, I guess, he has informed me that his betrothed has a sister...

d d d d ddang!

2006-12-31T02:08:00.000-08:00

Ouch! It's been cold, dropping into the 20s here at Camp Fallujah, I don't like it! The good news is, the flies seem not to like it either--hardly one to be found. And two months ago when I got here it was in the 90s and flies galore. Sheesh! This place can be so harsh.

Saddam has been executed. There was a small cheer but things were pretty much the same as usual around the base. Although I think his demise was anti-climatic in some ways--he has clearly been inert for a long time now--I have great admiration for the resolve and efficiency of the Iraqi court system! Can you imagine if Americas courts were so??? As usual, the popular media misses the real stories here.

If the rest of the new government here is as proficient as their courts, which they seem to be, the incredible speed of the country's progress here is no surprise. I wouldn't be surprised if the drop in oil prices lately has been related to the oil production coming out of Iraq. Now if I can just get a real heater for our garage!

Christmas Now Past

2006-12-25T10:36:00.000-08:00

It's a crystal clear night, and brisk, thanks to 24 hours of rain and a cold spell recently. The stars in the desert sky are stars indeed! The moon is a waxing crescent, a killing sign for the local religous fanatics. But it has been unusally peaceful, as if Christmas has power even here. One could easily imagine following a star in the East.

The evening meal was the big one. I had sweet potatoes, steak, and a lobster tail. In DFAC #1 there were cameras flashing. I saw officers that, when one stood up, the whole table rose. I saw lots of bars and a gold star at the table next to mine, wasted perhaps on my ignorance. Yes, we had special guests here in Camp Fallujah tonight.

Other officers served their soldiers from behind the counter and little filipino females dressed in red-- like merry black-haired elves. Ourselves, Haitians, filipinos, those from India, Iraq, and elsewhere wished each other a Merry Christmas. All is not well, but well enough, tonight.

"Any Marine"

2006-12-25T06:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Camp Fallujah Iraq was fairly quiet. As I have said, grateful Americans have sent boxes and boxes of fireplace-worthy stuffed socks, wetwipes, toothbrushes, the works. And my favorite, boxes filled and set around at recreational sites and chapels with Thank You/Christmas Cards addressed to "American Soldier" or "Any Marine."

A soldier I met at church said he wished Americans could see the good being done here, often against "an unseen evil," as he put it. He then added that there is really nothing in America waiting for him and he will extend his tour here after his buddies go home. Why not help save the world if you have nothing else going on?

And he is right. There is tons of good being done here. Business is really taking off--the largest Iraqi cell phone company, Iraqna, for example, is going from 300+Million dollars in business from one year to over $500 million the next.

The relatively stable government is talking about how to get oil production going up from 40 million barrels a year, if I remember the numbers correctly. You've heard the bad news, but I really doubt any force can stop the combination of Iraqi people and America from succeeding. That's good news.

Anyway, there are a few red hats and a soldiering Santa did drop off a few candy canes and the mess hall is decked out in Holiday cheer. Many soldiers got the day off and played soccer. My family saw to it I got a box Christmas Eve, bless their hearts. The Christmas Spirit is here and along with it our prayers for (someday) peace in Iraq, peace on Earth, and goodwill towards men.

A Pleasant Surprise

2006-12-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

Wow, hit the bunker twice yesterday, about the same amount as the last two months together! Somebody's got a new rocket-launcher. But they won't be around long. And then today the rain hit. It's about time: it was getting mighty dusty around here.

Then I ordered some books from Amazon.com. One came from a private book store in Florida. I guess the private owners, Ruben and Frida Modugno, noticed my military address. When I opened the book there was a little envelope with my name on it and a hand-written Christmas Card with some words of cheer and thanks. Isn't that sweet? I'm telling you, there are good people everywhere.

Then I noticed a link to my blog from a commentary blog. The view of things here in Iraq is often dour, mimicking the typical media barrage of coverage. Obviously things are BAD here. It's a war. But I find the idea that Iraqis aren't interested in freedom or that the Iraq country is about to fall apart, or that we are some how losing here, myopic and unsupported.

For example, 80% of Iraqis voted in each of their three elections. Seems, compared to Americans, which muster maybe 60% on a hot-topic election, the Iraqis love democracy more than we do!

Then the violence in one or two provinces is shown and people somehow think the whole country is in Chaos. That's like looking at crime and murder in Capitol of America, Washington D.C., and believing our whole country is engaged in a bloodbath.

That's just my view. The soldiers here never lose ANY battle they engage in. It's just that the extremists of the two opposing groups here are like two mafias or two fuedal lords going at it--granted; the Sunnis are backed by Syria and the Shiites by Iran--but the majority of Iraqis are not playing along. Most of Iraq is relatively civilized. And you don't hear most Iraqis whining about it, do you?

Yeah, just my opinion. But I've learned that things are often different than they seem, or are made to appear. And if you look back at the news a few years after World War Two, you will often find very pessimistic and defeatest media views of what is now considered a great victory. I give America, and Iraq, the benefit of the doubt.

Good and Bad

2006-12-09T22:59:00.000-08:00

The Marines have suffered a greater loss of life these last two weeks. The bad guys are getting quality bombs and new sniper rifles sent in from Iran where they are now being mass-produced. In fact, sniper-related deaths versus deaths from road bombs are increasing now, one commander said. The military now has these HUGE trucks called cougars and buffalos with v-shaped armored bottoms to disperse the charge of a bomb. The HumVees are also much more armored than when I left here in March.

Fortunately also I have heard several happy stories as well. Again those "miracle saves" are plenty. One soldier had his hand on his chest, the bullet pierced the webbing between his fingers but was stopped by the armor. Another soldier the bullent missed his gun (also held across his chest), which may have sent the fragments into his face, and even finding a way through some of the armor,the bullet was stopped at last by a girly magazine he had stuffed inbetween his armor and self!

Most remarkably, the Marines seem unchanged and undaunted by it all. It seems they know they have one of the toughest jobs here in Iraq near the volatile Anbar Province and are ready to live up to the challenge and consequences.

Another cool thing is I see the American flag flying here in several different places. I guess on other bases it is politically incorrect to display the flag? But it's great to see the patriotic spirit here. I like these Marines.

Christians and Americans: My Fav

2006-12-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

I was at the "Chaplain's Oasis" on Sunday and saw the tons of munchies, toilet articles, books, etc. that Americans send. Most often they come from Christian church congregations or groups. Love those Americans!

Now with Christmas approaching great numbers of stuffed stockings are showing up for these fighters along with packs and packs of cookies! And this is just the beginning of the season!

Another thing I am proud of is that America sends our best to protect those of any religion--many of our recent military and diplomatic efforts have been to protect Muslims like here in Iraq as well as Hindus and others elsewhere.

Lately I've read several books/stories of heroic Dutch in Holland during the Nazi invasion of WWII. Those great people, often great Christians, did their best to save their Jewish neighbors from the hateful invaders. Please, please read this most amazing story of Christian discipleship, a story about "Corrie Ten Boom" called "The Hiding Place." It also paints a clear picture of evil if left unchecked and puts this war in perspective. The true events recorded in it will change you.

The Way Things Are

2006-11-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

Oh man, just saw a TV show filmed in PB, (Pacific Beach) San Diego. Not 6 weeks ago I was there on my longboard watching the beach go by! Those were the good ole days, eh?

It's not all bad. My "room", a building, a hut, that I share with a bunch of other guys is right near a gym and internet cafe. And because of the near proximity of the chow-hall to my place of work, I am getting 3 square meals a day for the first time in my life. My last chance to get fat...

Today the CO (commanding officer) of our repair camp called us all together to both thank and admonish us on a few things. 65% of his Marines are new recruits, just kids, and he is grateful that contractors like us with experience and capabilities are here to, not only get his vehicles back on the road, but teach his soldiers how to weld, repair, replace, etc. They will take such skills and knowledge with them when they leave. That's cool.

I am starting to get the just of things here and although I was impatient at first looking for progress, it now seems things are starting to move into place. But my experiences here so far pale in comparison to my last experience in Iraq. So far. Remember to visit the archives at "Ernest Goes to Iraq" if I am boring you...otherwise, have a great day--

Sundays, Birthdays, and Holidays

2006-11-12T08:53:00.000-08:00

One of my first nights here a great wind and rain storm knocked out the center support of our tent in the middle of the night. While one of my tent-mates watched it with his flashlight the rest of the night to see if it would come down on him, I went and snoozed out on the couch in the more solidly-built Recreation room.

Church with the Mormon Marines is in a little computer room. The Sacrament is administered from the top of a horizontal freezer and we have 6 to 13 Saints there for the one-hour service. Last week we did testimonies and this week we viewed a few Conference talks.

Today I sat down with two Marines outside the "chapel" and had a nice little chat. I love those guys! They know why they are here and are proud of it. They should be, every time I interact with our military I am very impressed with who they are and what they do. They feel they stand between the average Iraqi and Saddam-like terror, that they are the purveyors of freedom. I'd say they are right.

The camp celebrated the birthday of the Marines (Nov. 10th) with a very special party where each soldier got 2 beers each. Alcohol is strictly prohibited by the Military in Iraq so there had to be some very special permission from way up the command chain----shhhh! Don't tell. But apparently they really enjoyed the priviledge.

Veterans Day? We watched the Presidential ceremonies on TV and I personally thanked those two Marines (Anderson and Oliver) and relayed to them the gratitude I personally hear from great Americans when I'm home on break.

It's good to be here.

Fallujah

2006-11-04T22:48:00.000-08:00

I have been in Camp Fallujah less than a week. Marines run the place and they run it on the basics. There are not many of the luxuries that can be found on many other bases and to make things worse, the Marines have suffered much higher casualites in the last month here.

My shop is a tent with steel plates to drive the HumVees onto for repair, but otherwise the floor is dirt, sand, rocks. It is maybe 22 feet wide and maybe 45 feet deep. My supervisor has decided not to let me have Sundays off, but I am allowed to go to church for a few hours.

Other than that, I am having a great time!

I am still learning my way around and working on a way to upload pictures to the blog. For now, my time is up for posting. More later.

Blackhawk UP!

2006-11-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

I wish I wish I wish I had my digital camera with me...because riding in the helicopter was THE COOLEST. Just like on the news or a movie, looking out a rectangle side window with the outline of the machine gun in front, whirling 150ft over the tops of palm trees, muddy huts, acres of sand, and yes, even a beautiful blue/green lake!

When we passed over a village, kids would run out with both hands in the air, waving! I finally found out why...one of the gunners had bags of candy and he would target quite accurately a toss to those kids now and then. What a great PR move and everyone is happy.

Once, over a barren stretch, the gunners let out a few practice rounds on their side-mounted machine guns. It was all just way cool. The pilot flew very smoothly and we would swerve, hover, and switch positions with the other chopper from time to time. It was so cool to see so much of Iraq from such a vantage point.

Man I wish I had that cam to share some pics with you. The good part is, when I leave for vacation in a few months, I WILL have it with me. But that was a real kick in the pants for me, first time in a whirlybird...and the other best part? I got paid to do it!

Back in Iraq

2006-10-30T09:37:00.000-08:00

Landing in Baghdad we were surprised to be greeted by heavy rain! And it continued on and off for several days. It is a month or two early for the rainy season but the mild weather here is always welcome, in fact, it was downright beautiful here in Iraq!

Yes, I finally made it back. It's good to be here and see what new experiences might be waiting. Already in camp Balad I understand they only hit the bunkers once or twice a month. When I arrived first two years ago, we would hit the bunkers 3 or 4 times a day! Quite a change.

In Fallujah I will be working with the Marines. I understand they are a slightly different breed...if internet is readily available, I'll let you know soon. But what I'm really excited about is, I get to travel via Blackhawk helicopter!!! That's a very cool First. Sadly, my digital camera still is not with me...

Where's the Brains?

2006-10-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Another stop on my wine-and-dine trip is Sharjah. It is one of the more conservative city-states of the UAE (United Arabic Emirates). It’s a dry country, and by that I mean no alcohol; although it’s location by the Persian Gulf paradoxically doesn’t lend it much humidity either (mostly just heat). Today it was a mild 85 or so. But keep your shirt on and no shorts in public, please, modesty is required.

The locals are from many countries, India, Pakistan, and Egypt I guess, to name a few. But they all have olive skin and black hair, pretty much the same cut. Sighting a woman is unusually rare, and the men with their hand-holding, hugging, and cheek-kissing would make the denizens of Hillcrest (home of Gay-Mart) in San Diego blush.

At my hotel I got fancy dinners paid for, did the hotel work-out room and pool, and made it to the beach! Don’t worry, soon the honey-moon phase of my employment will be over and I will be in a figurative hell, K? So just let me enjoy this. Speaking of dinner, I had chicken, steak, lamb, and desserts galore! However, there was a dish named…Brain Salad.

I looked, and sure enough, it had plenty of sliced brains in it. I asked, “who’s brains are those?” The waiter didn’t know for sure but guessed it was “beef brains.” Now I enjoy sushi without much problem but I just wasn’t in the mood for something that interesting. Besides, I’m going to Iraq, why in the world would I have any brains???

Don't Try This at Home

2006-10-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

foto from 04 training

Anti-Terrorism: It's a gas!

2006-10-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

We completed Anti-Terrorism Training this week and NBC (nuclear/biological/chemical) training, the one where you put on a gas-mask, a big yellow suit, and duct-tape each other. Among other things. I learned that when you get a hotel, especially in a foreign land, take the third floor, back side, by the fire escape. That way if a bomb goes off in the street, you are far away enough from the blast but not too far from where rescue ladders can get to you. (Stay below the 10th floor)

Speaking of deluxe accommodations, it’s been nice staying in a hotel room paid for by the company. Every day someone makes my bed, cleans my bathroom, vacuums my floor--the works, and I don‘t even see them! Including 3 full meals with all the cooking and cleaning done. It costs $8-$10,000 to process each potential employee for this week and may I say; I enjoyed it!

But, we’re just about done here in Houston, flying out about 24 hours from now. First off to Amsterdam and then parts unknown (to you). I even boxed up the skateboard and sent it back to San Diego. (sniff*sniff*)

The cool thing is that we are taught the soldiers Code of Conduct and told that we, as civilians serving the Client, which is the soldier, that we should try to follow their creed. I particularly note Section VI for you:

United States Military Code of Conduct:

Article VI
I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.

Yes, where the bullets hit the sand, political correctness stands down and true patriotism shines forth. I would just like to add…AMEN.

Life in Iraq

2006-10-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

"hey honey, can you hold down the fort while I run out for some groceries?"

Houston

2006-10-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

The skies of San Diego wept as I left, but the rain soon followed me here to Houston as I prepare for Iraq. But the fun never stops. Waiting for an elevator with a potential future fellow-employee, I noticed him trying to push the elevator-lock control above our heads.

This does not call the elevator, although it kinda looks like a button. I refrained from smiling and pushed the "up" button that actually calls the elevator. If he makes it out of Texas, I secretly hope he is assigned to a different base...

Speaking of which, I have been assigned to Fallujah. I am excited to work at a place with significant history and with the Marines, even if the place has been relatively quiet since they cleaned it out.

But first I must endure endless paper-work, long seminars, lots of needles and pokings, and my familiar "colorful" friends. Did I mention we got 6 inches of rain last night and it is still pouring down? A total deluge! My skateboard is useless. In other news, I forgot to pack my digital camera. At least the food and lodging is free…and above is an old archive foto from my original Iraq blog: Ernest Goes to Iraq

Could it be?

2006-09-25T11:53:00.000-07:00

Word has it I may be able to go back to Iraq. Stay tuned...