The Narrow Road

New meaning for Veteran's day this year..

2010-11-10T07:03:00.001-08:00

So tomorrow is Veteran's day, AND my 32ndIknowIdontlookit birthday. Those days have ALWAYS been one in the same. It has been kinda cool growing up ALWAYS having my birthday off from school. We have been to a few parades on those days, and I have always loved the military, and held Vets in very high esteem. I felt, and still feel, very special on my birthday because I share the day with a group of VERY special people.

But this year is a little different, and will be from this point on. Now I am the Veteran. Whoa. When I think of Vets I think of guys with the cool hats with all the pins and buttons, sitting at a VFW sipping on bad beer and trading war stories and showing scars. Not me. I am only 32...I have a wife and a kiddo in diapers...but now I can check the box on job applications that says "Veteran." Weird.

But as I wrap my head around it...it does sink in. I have served for only 4 years, was gone for 1 of them in Afghanistan. I saw my share of fighting...I have some stories...and I am here to talk about it. There are those that were not as fortunate as me. They are either having a tough time coping, or they are no longer with us. I have lost friends, and that is something that I will always carry with me. I have seen what losing a husband/father/brother will do to the family...and that will stay with me. I thank the Lord that I have Him to lean on..and carry me through the times that are a little rough. He did so for a year, and I know he will be there in the ones to come.

So, tomorrow, if you see a Vet, are related to one or know one. Its ok to say thanks. (I am not fishing for thank you's.. ) We do appreciate it...and sometimes don't know how to respond, but it always makes us feel good...heck...buy em lunch..or a beer... :)

So...I will end by saying my 4 years in the Army has been tough, amazing, growing, and humbling. I will never regret it.

I'm Home...

2010-07-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

I'm done. The process getting home was a long one...and the year has been hard.

But it's over.

Thank you again for all of your support over this last year, for my family, and myself. It means more than you know...

So here are 2 of the 7 or 8 videos that we have...the "meat" if you will, we will post the others later... ENJOY!

Put a fork in it...its done!

2010-06-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

So here I am.

In my room, on the wireless Internet. And I have less than 2 weeks left here.
In 2 weeks I will....
-I will see my beautiful bride's smile and hear her laugh in person
-See Cooper in all is adorable goofyness
-Hear Chase say dadda in person...and kiss those cheeks!
-NOT smell...stuff that makes normal people wretch!
-NOT hear artillery go out
-NOT worry about IEDs
-EAT MY WIFE'S COOKING!!!!
-sleep in my bed...

Ah...the list could go on and on. But...I am here, done. And it feels good. I look forward to the post when I am home, and I hope to put down on here what I have learned while I was here. What the Lord has taught me. It has been alot. And I look forward to sharing it.

I will start my trip home in about a week. And I really can not wait. This has been a hard year. This second part of the deployment has been harder than the first for me missing my family. It has been a little easier on the army side. And there have been alot of big things that have happened. But, the Lord has been faithful, and has carried me through.

So thank you too all of our family and friends. God has used you to make this time easier on us. I can't imagine what it would have been like with out you all. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I look forward to posting the welcome home/reunion pics soon. Stay tuned on Facebook, Tiffs blog and here. They will be up in about 14 days!!!!!

Looking down the mountain to the other side

2010-04-21T01:31:00.000-07:00

Yep. I update this thing about every three months. Not what I wanted to do...but, oh well.

We are back at Frontenac. And I have to say, I love it here. There is a fellowship of believers here that is just amazing! The Lord knew what He was doing when all of us came here. It is awesome. I have been able to get back into leading worship, it has done wonders for this soldiers heart.

Stuff has been pretty low key here. Not alot going on. That is also nice. Being on the extreme down side of the deployment, none of us really want anything to happen. LETS JUST GET HOME ALREADY!

This thing is getting pretty old. You can tell by looking at some of us. We just want to be done. We just want to go home and be with our families. I know I do!

Right now, Tiff and the boys are in Saint Louis. To say that I am jealous would be an understatement. Seeing family, our cherished friends, and the food...ugh...I wish I were there! They are having fun, the boys are enjoying cousin time, and Tiff is reconnecting with old friends. Not to mention there are some grandmas and grandpas that get to see their grandsons! Stuff is going well there.

The question tiff and I have fielded alot from you all in the Lou is...

Are you coming back?

The simple answer.

Yes.

The next question is- What are you going to do?
The next answer is- We dunno.

So...here's the deal with that. We are praying for 2 things.
1-that we know when and where our next paycheck will come from BEFORE we leave Washington
2-that we have an address to have our stuff sent to BEFORE we leave Washington

I will be putting apps in at a few police agencies there in the saint Louis area. Other than that, we will be counting on our friends and family to help us network so I can find something to do. Ideally we would still like tiff to stay at home. That is our goal. As far as work for me...well...if you know me, you know what I can do, and if not...just ask!

As far as a place to live..we are fully prepared to rent until we are well-enough established to purchase a home again. So no big deal there. If you know of anything..Let us know! :)

We are excited...and nervous about the changes coming up. I am more excited...and my head-not-always-in-the-clouds bride is a little more nervous. And that is OK...we balance each other out.

We ask for your prayer in all of those things, as well as for our boys as we transition. Cooper will be starting Kindergarten ....wow...in the fall of 11....so we have some big stuff ahead of us.

Thank you all for your support in all of this!

-on the downhill
Jerm

Here and there

2010-01-24T03:59:00.000-08:00

I can't lie....this one just might be all over the place.

Where do I start? I have moved to a new FOB home when I got back from leave. It is better...and worse. There are more good things than bad....like the internet in my tent, and the food. But the bad stinks. Literally. The bathroom situation is not ideal. Nor the laundry. And by the time those get fixed...I bet we will be leaving...or gone...so whatever.

I really do like the internet in the tent. It rocks. Yea, we pay for it, but you really cant beat the convenience.

New topic.

My oldest. Man, he is having it pretty rough right now. He is not listening to momma, questions EVERYTHING she tells him, flat out disobeys....ugh...the boy is pushing her to the edge. I know that part of it is his age, and hes just being a boy, but, I can't help but think, that part is because I am not there. And it kills me. Tiff tells me that its ok, but I feel awful. I can't help my best friend parent, and just be there for her. Of the entire deployment, this has been the hardest part thus far. I swear being in a firefight is easier than this. Please lift my family in prayer with me, especially my sweet Tifi.

New topic.

This thing is winding DOWN time wise. Less left than we have been! WOOHOO! But that brings up another point...we are almost done with the army! At this time next year we will either be done...or just a few short weeks from being done! C R A Z Y ! ! It all has gone by so fast. And that raises some other fun questions.
Where am I gonna work?
Where are we going to live?
Whoa.
Tiff has some applications to a few different police departments. That is something that I will definitely pursue. But I am not going in with tunnel vision. If there is something out there that will provide for my family...I'm all over it. We will be praying about this, I ask you all to do the same please. This will be the 2nd biggest transition we have made...and it could be a little stressful. (Right now Tiff is thinking..."A LITTLE?" hehe) So, late in the summer some of you that read this could hear something from me asking if you know of any open positions in your or other companies!! LOL...yeah networking.

I also plan on going back to school on top of all this too! HA! Yep. I would love to start fall of 2011, but we will have to see where we are job wise and stuff...even if its online...I am going to get that degree! I mean...the army is gonna pay for it! Why not right? I didn't do these last 4 year for nothin!

New Topic.

Dad...seriously...you dont even drive the mustang.

New topic.

To my dear friends in seattle. You will be missed more than you know. I know I talk alot about going back home. But we will be leaving a huge chunk of us there. You all mean the world to Tiff and I, and I shutter to think of what life would have been like there without you all. We love you from the bottom of our hearts!

K....that is all for now.

I love you Mrs. Nevil!

There's no place like a new home.....There's no place like a new home...

2010-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello from FOB Ramrod! Yep. Ram. Rod.

We are now down here, and let me tell ya...its pretty sweet. WIFI internet, good chow, my own room! (and by room I mean cubicle...in a tent, but we could be in CHUs in a month or two...we will see) It is really cool actually.

So there is not much to say. But, man...I had a PERFECT time on R&R.

I was really worried that war had changed me. I mean, I have had nothing to compare myself to other than the guys I work with, and that was a fear of mine when I left. That war would change my heart...make it hard. But, it didn't. The Lord has looked after this husbands/daddys/sons/brothers heart and it is well. Very well.

We all had a blast together. It was like I had never left. And that is when I noticed it. That the Lord was taking care of my family...perfectly. They get what they need, when they need it, just like I do over here. I have seen the Lord soo much over here, and to see that He has taken care of the people I love the most, puts my heart at ease. He is such a sweet father, and takes care of His children better than they know how themselves.

The highlight of my journey back, was my bride. She is my best friend. My buddy, my world. To be with her reminded me that I am human...not some soldier robot...that I am loved, more than I know. To see her smile, hear that AMAZING laugh, made my leave. To see her be the awesome mom she is with the boys, and be with the hottest wife on earth, ugh...I am running out of words. (BTW...I dont suggest this, maybe on a lesser scale. But 6 months away from the fam does AMAZING things for your marriage. You learn alot, and well...there are other...awesome....uh...yea.) Anyway, to say that she was the best part of this whole thing would be and understatement.

I Love you Mrs. Nevil!

So, I am at a new place, with alot more access to the interweb...so...hopefully we can all talk more. I plan (yep plan...) to update this more..but we will see. If you stop by...COMMENT...I love to hear what people say...

Jerm

R&R

2009-12-24T11:41:00.000-08:00

Home sweet home. I know a lot of you that read this have seen the videos of me coming home and some of the photos on Tiffs facebook page. So...I wont have a lot of that stuff on here. Just an FYI.

But I will tell you that other than 1-Getting married to Tiffany 2-Having my kiddos- This has been the best experience of my life. Being separated from them for so long, and then reunited is a feeling that I really can not even put to words. I wanted to explode....scream....run around....cry.....just such a mix! It was so awesome. To see Coop and have him run to me yelling DADDY!...wow.

And Chase (Chaz....Chasey-bud...) He has gotten so big. He really did not know what to think about me at first, but after a few hours...he knew that this was not "web cam or picture" daddy. It was the real thing. And we have had a blast re-connecting over the last 2 weeks. HE IS SO FRIGGIN CUTE!

Then there is my best friend. To see her beautiful eyes looking back at me...her amazing smile, and to smell her hair....ah.. it was perfect. (And not to mention we were not together for more than 3 hours before I heard the most amazing laugh in the wide world!) To hold her hand and to taste her sweet kiss again, time stopped. She is so amazing. And I knew this all along, but there is something about being away for so long that makes you realize how much you take for granted. And I appreciate and cherish her so much, and coming back just made all of that come to the surface. It was almost too much....almost.

Our time here has been great together. Lots of laughs. And even more love. Cooper has been attached to my hip the whole time. Chase loves to cuddle, and I get to see my Tifi be her amazing super mom self........which brings me to my next point..

I HAVE NO IDEA HOW SHE EVER LEAVES THE HOUSE!!!!! I am not even kidding. I don't know how she has the time or anything else to keep this house the way she likes it let alone herself! She is amazing. I know that I am at times dodging bullets and IEDs....but she has a MUCH harder job!

We have done lots....shopping for Christmas gifts....celebrating our favorite season...eating out ( LOVE BJs and the Original pancake house)... Just hanging as a fam... its been great. And Weird.

When I first got here that is what I told Tiff one of our first nights together. I said that it was so odd that I was just in a combat zone a week before. (I had about 3 days leading up to my leave "off" and not on missions) And then I was cuddling on the couch with my wife. To go from one extreme to the other was just something that I have never experienced before. I mean, soldiers in WW2 did not get this. They went to Paris...but they were still there with other soldiers. I am with my family...far removed from all things war. Its good....just weird.

But...our time is drawing to a close. The Lord answered a prayer of ours and time did not fly. I am a little excited to get back..because every day I am there...is a day close to being DONE! And the next time I come back...I wont GO back. But we have enjoyed our time together, and thank you to everyone who has helped.

And a special thank you to our parents. Especially mine. I am sure that it was the hardest thing you have ever done in not coming out here. I know it would be if Coop or Chaz were in my shoes and I in yours. Thank you. It means the world the sacrifice you made. I love you.

Be on the look out if you are on "The List" for some updates...

Thanks for your prayers and support in all of this. I cant wait to say all of that in person.

Jerm

2009-11-03T05:10:00.001-08:00

Bullet points about a deployment

-Afghanistan smells like a curry covered turd most of the time
-most explosions don’t involve a fire ball-the movies have it all wrong
-When RPGs (rocket propelled grenades) are shot…they are hard to track. Again…the movies got it wrong.
-Pictures mean the world to you
-Music keeps you sane
-The Lord will show up both during, and immediately after a firefight to let you know that He is -there and you will be OK.
-The sound of helicopter rotor blades is music to the ears
-Hearing your son on the phone makes your day
-Hearing your wife smile over the phone gets you through
-Web cams are the best invention ever.
-Afghan bread is AMAZING
-Getting boxes is like Christmas
-Being here makes you realize there is so much about life that you had taken for granted. And you will not do that ever again.
-AK47 gunfire is VERY distinctive…and it makes you angry.
-My wife is the most beautiful woman in the world…no really Im not just saying that…I have been over here….she is. BY FAR!
-War brings out the best…and worst in people.
-Changing a tire on a stryker is NOT fun

Update from "THE STAN"!!!!

2009-10-25T04:03:00.000-07:00

So, I am really not good at updating this blog. Not at all…never have been. But I hope the “I have been in Afghanistan for the better part of 4 months” excuse will fly. LOL. So, as I sit in my room….most of you all are fast asleep, I felt that I need to write. (by felt…I mean my wife suggested I update my blog….but I really was planning on it myself….really..I was!)
Lots of people ask how I am doing. And I always say OK. But really, that is the best way to describe me. I am ok. Some days…I am really good, others, its really hard. I will say, there are more good than bad. But the bad…is REALLY bad. Weather we have lost someone…or I am really homesick missing my bride and my boys…the hard is really hard, and seems to outweigh the good. But like I said…there is more good than bad. So..that is what I mean by ok. Its 70/30.
What I will say, the Lord is here. Wow. He shows himself to me EVERY DAY! At night…it’s the milky way. During the day, it could be a cool breeze, or the smile from an Afghan child that reminds me of home, or the pictures on my wall. He is also here in the worship services and bible studies that I am involved with. I am not in the island that I thought I would be here. There are other very strong believers here. It is AWESOME! The Lord knew this would be an encouragement to me…as well as to others to know that we are not alone. Praise Him!

I have been playing guitar and leading worship every time I am here when we get together. Sometimes I am on mission but can not make it…and that is a bummer, but I still have my Zune…so I have my own little worship service if I am able. We have a Sunday morning service, and on Sunday evenings we have a bible study and we are currently going through Ephesians. On Tuesdays we have another bible study, most of the time I am out during that one. Thursdays are a praise and worship night with a lot of prayer. We are usually together for at least an hour and a half. It is such a blessing for the heart! I feel charged up every time I go, it really is something to look forward to.

The last 3 months have been hard. This is the closest I have had to deal with death, and destruction. It is not fun. There is nothing glorious about it. War truly is hell. It has made me really appreciate all that I had taken for granted back at home. But like I said, the Lord is here and He alone is sustaining me. Thank you for your prayers, they are felt, and I know that is why I have the peace in my heart that I do.

I am really looking forward to December, I will be going on leave then, and CAN NOT WAIT to see Tiff and the boys. Please pray that I am there for Christmas day and that my travels go well. (and that time comes to a STOP while I am there) I look forward to phone calls and webcamming!

BOXES. Oh my gosh! THANK YOU a thousand times. They make my day! Really, each time I get a box, its like Christmas! (BTW…Kelli and Lee…the dave glover CD, Are you kidding?? YOU ARE AMAZING!) I have been able to spread the love and generosity around my platoon. Some give me a hard time for how much I get…until they need shampoo, soap, a brownie (miss krosley…amazing), or something else. Really, the inside of my CHU looks like the PX!
Now that I can do this…I will try to update more. (yea…I will try. Mom…stop rolling your eyes.) This one really has no theme other than a shotgun blast update…and unfortunately…my stories may have to wait till we all see each other in person. But..we will see.

Again, thank you all for your support, prayers, boxes, and love. All are needed and felt. You all truly show what it means to love.
Thanks.
Tiff-you’re beautiful.
jerm

Is it bad?

2009-07-03T08:48:00.000-07:00

So I was inspired by my good friend to do an is it bad post...

Is it bad that I think the 10 second rule can apply to 90% of the places you go for anyone?

Is it bad that I think the TV is a perfectly fine substitute for parental supervision at times?

Is it bad that not everyone will get that because they might not know me that well?

Is it bad that when we are driving around...walking places...going to the mall, that I am looking for spots we COULD be ambushed...or get ambushed....sizing EVERYONE up to see who could pose a "problem" if something awful came up.

Kinda like above...
Is it bad that I have a thing about standing/congregating in doorways? (at work we call them the fatal funnel) And I have to know and will look for all exits when we are out anywhere...ya know...just in case.

Is it bad that if you are a police officer I feel it is your duty to carry your weapon concealed to church?

Is it bad that my thoughts are like those above?

Is it bad that I want my boys to be tender, caring, strong young men of God who are fiercely devoted to their family, that are well loved by others, but those that may not like or love them, know that if they dis-honor their mother, sister (if they have one) or are just mean to others around them...that those people will have a "bad day"?

Is it bad that I think video games are a true hobby?

Is it bad that I really think I could go toe to toe with a cougar and win......seriously.

Is it bad that I feel I should be able to open hand...or back of the hand (you all know what that is) smack, the Jonas brothers, Perez Hilton, most of the cast of high school musical, The pres of Iran, and the entire congregation at the West Boro Baptist church?

OK...there ya go...
What are yours?

Beer Review #5

2009-06-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Name:Shiner Romanian Black Lager
Temp:Same as the other 4
Vehicle:Frozen Pint Glass

Ok...its official, I have a thing for Porters! Dunno what it is...but they are so friggin good! LOVE THEM!!! I did notice something with this beer, that I can say about the other porters but not of the traditional beers. They are almost better a little warmer than Ice Ice cold. (for those of you that are like me that are now 2/3 of the way through ICE ICE BABY in your head...rock on!) It was a strange find to me. Finnaly I dont feel like I have to slam a beer so it wont taste like warm urine! WOOT.

This stuff is awesome! Love it! Smooth finish, great taste (see the other porter review) If yo like porters or are looking to get into them....go here!!! Plus the bottle looks cool!

Beer Review #4

2009-06-29T18:52:00.001-07:00

Name:Mandarin Hefeweisen
Temp:Back of the fridge cold
Vehicle:Frozen Pint Glass

For me Hefe's have been hit and miss...almost 50/50. This one was good. It had some type of chinese beer influences (So sayith the label). It was good, stronger than the other to lighter beers in the previous posts. But good. Not my fav. 6/10. I think the saving grace was the hint of citrus. If not for that...just kinda of a blah beer.

Beer review #3

2009-06-29T18:49:00.001-07:00

Name:Blue Star
Temp:Back of the fridge cold
Vehicle:Ice cold pint glass

A little different than the Honey beer in the previous post. It is an unfiltered wheat ale. AND IT WAS GREAT! Of the 3 lighter colored beers I have had so far...this was my fav! Smooth taste. Had a GREAT after taste. Kinda like some of the porters I have it has a great finish! Again, if you are like I was a few short years ago...another great beer to start to expand your horizons on!

Beer Review #2

2009-06-29T18:45:00.001-07:00

Name:Oregon Honey Beer
Temp:Back of the fridge cold
Vehicle:Frozen pint glass

The first of some of the lighter colored beers I have. It was very sweet, refreshing... tasted great! Not too weak...but this was no IPA or some other bitter beer. Very smooth, easy to drink. A good Beer for the first timer going out on a limb away from the Budweiser tree.

Beer Review #1

2009-06-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

About 8 years ago I enjoyed my first beer. Yes...it was almost that long ago. I was with some friends from work (Kevin and Mark) and it was so cold...so GOOD! I am NO lush, but I enjoy the taste of a brewski!

My brother can attest to the fact that my palate was limited. I would never go past a Bud-Select for the longest time...no matter how hard he tried.

But over the last year or so...I have broadened my beer horizons. Thus I will be giving my review (although I dont have alot of knowledge on beer...I just know what tastes good to me) on some brews that were recently purchased that I have not either tried before...or have limited time drinking.

So this is for us Beer retards that are not educated on the
brews...but like the taste. So this will be in layman's terms to say the least.

But before I begin...here is what I like to drink.
Blue Moon
Guinness
Pyramid line of beers
The Michelob line of Micro-Brews
Stuff at the Ram or The Rock restaurants
Henry Weinhards
Shiner Bach
Black Butte Porter
Other stuff like Blue Moon

Ok, so on to my first review..

Name: Henry Weinhard's Classic Dark
Temp:Back of the fridge cold!
Vehicle: Pint Glass

First impression was a DARK beer. It was NOT see through. Poured into the glass...no head (because of the pour)
First taste....SMOOTH! Oh so smooth. Nice taste...not bitter...did I mention how smooth it was? Not really a coffee taste...kinda "woody" if that makes any sense... My wife thought it was amazing! If you are skeptical about dark beers...let this be your first! VERY GOOD!!

So this was the first of at least 6 that I will do over the next week or so...maybe sooner depending on how "hard" my day was. HA!

So...if you are a NOVICE beer connoisseur like I am...I hope this helps!

Got official word...

2009-02-17T21:19:00.000-08:00

We are going to Afghanistan this summer. Like I said on my facebook page...

Then taliban are gonna have a rough year.

What a week

2009-02-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

So this was a weird week.

It started with a wedding and a birth. And has ended with a death.

Yea. The last one is a little morbid...but that is where I will start.

This morning I talked to my Dad and my grandma passed away. She died earlier this morning in Texas after a battle with cancer that was pretty much over when we found out the cancer was there. She told the nurse just before letting go that she was ready to go home. So she is there now...with my grandpa (Nevil...my dads parents) and is not hurting or sick anymore.

Please keep my dad and aunt and uncles and my grandmas husband Lionel in your prayers. (She and Lionel have been married for the last 10 or so years. He told her that she should be buried next to Grandpa and when she sees him to thank him for letting her spend a few years with him.) That was really sweet. She was a barrel of laughs and even though we fell out of touch over the last few years. I will still miss her smile...and laugh. She was one of the sweetest hug-you-on-first-sight women you will ever meet. She will be missed.

On Monday of this week, we were honored to be the official witnesses for Scott and Krista Tillman's wedding. It was a small ceremony with a justice of the peace in Olympia, but it was not the sterile "civic" ceremony that we all expected. It was really nice, and the words that the judge said actually got everyone a little emotional! It was a great night, and we will always cherish the honor! Thanks guys!

The next MORNING at 2 am Tiffs water broke after 2 hours of contractions! HA! and after a very "Hollywood" (screaming and fast driving) trip to the hospital... Chase Evan was PUSHED out by 5:14 that morning. Au natural might I add! My wife is a stud! She has put up pics on our flickr site and you should go and see our expanded family! he is super cute!

I know that was short...but, tiffs blog also has everything in print for you to read...and she is a MUCH better writer!

How the heck????

2009-01-13T17:02:00.000-08:00

So my son just came out of the bathroom after saying he had to go pee. And he went. And somehow...he got pee all over the front of his shirt! Seriously! It was alot...and a straight line up!
I know the physics behind the issue...I have the same plumbing. I do think its funny!

Mom, did I do stuff like this?

Israel......Hmmm...

2009-01-05T22:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows about the fighting that is going on over in Israel. Hamas has been shooting rockets to just..well..inflict damage on they-don't-care-who, and Israel has had enough. I will be honest...I can't go back dozens of years in my head to see why Hamas would do all of this. But...Israel was made a nation. And ANY nation has the right and duty to protect itself and its people.

So...what do you think? Is Israel going too far? What would be the solution?

My 2 cents.

You are dealing with terrorists. They are organized. But they are terrorists that hide among civilians. They are the SCUM of the earth. They understand one thing. Death. They have no problem dishing it out. But when the pendulum of violence swings the other direction...usually with enough force to HOPEFULLY break the will of the other to fight...everyone freaks out. Collateral damage is awful. Children and women dieing is awful. But I fully believe that the Israeli army is not INTENTIONALLY targeting civilians! But...they are trying to be as precise as humanly possible. But...they bad guys are in the middle of them...and they are there on purpose. They can not stand and fight. So they hid behind women and children, and waive their fists when one of them is unfortunately hit.

Does that make sense. It is a little different for me now that I am on a different side of the line. I can see where Israel is coming from. And I bet it is very hard to be on the ground over there. I do pray that this can be resolved quickly. But I also pray that terrorists will be wiped from the face of the earth. All of them. But...I have a feeling I will not see that on this side of heaven.

What are your thoughts?

What goes up...gets on Dad

2009-01-03T22:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I am back on here. My family and I just got back from a visit to Saint Louis and it was a great trip! It is home. It really is. As soon as the wheels hit the ground...we just felt it. Thanks to all of those that made the trip AMAZING!

It was amazing...and by amazing I mean...fun, tiring, restful..(kinda) and a good time to catch up.

The first day in town I had a little date with my nieces. It was a blast! That night we had a guys night and got together with a few friends. We talked...had some AMAZING beer (thanks Chubs) and had a great time.

Christmas eve was great. We went to church with my mom and I was in my Class "A" uniform. (Fancy green suit). It was fun to see alot of old friends. But...we went to STL with a boy that had a manageable cold. But on Christmas eve...it took a turn for the worst.

He woke up from his nap before we left with a fever around 102. But...we went anyway. He was UBER lethargic..but we gave him some meds and after the service he was back to normal. At about 3:15 Christmas morning I was in his room...laying next to him comforting him as he was upset. Didn't know why...but I was enjoying some cuddle time with my boy.

Till he started puking.

Yep...that poor boy wretched everything he ate that day all over his bed. Twice. THEN I took him to the bathroom....and he did it again.

He got a bath. We put the sheets in the washer...and I cleaned up the chunks.

Back to bed at 4. I was with him...to comfort him...he was really scared. We fell asleep. Heads together....on our backs looking at the glow in the dark stars on the ceiling. At 4:30 he said..looking up, almost cheek to cheek with daddy..."Daddy...my froat hur..:dfjaue;n dfsadfkjshdlkfjh;dfa<>:{)(*"}{|:>?:>?^@#(^%*@$*@#^*&!!!!!!!!!!!" Yep...puked again...this time looking straight up....CHEEK TO FRIGGIN CHEEK with dad. And what goes up....comes down in your sons face and the "back blast" gets all over yours. And then your poor little boy sits up and looks at you like he just came out of a pool he was so soaked. WITH chunks in his eye lashes. GROSSSS!!!

He got another bath...we took the previous sheets out of the dryer...and put those on the bed. UGH...it was rough.

The poor kid was not himself until the last 3 days of our trip. It was a bummer. But other than that...it was fun!

Voting as a Soldier this year

2008-11-01T09:48:00.001-07:00

So...I am a soldier. I am in the infantry. I love my job. And in your job weather it be in sales....admin....wherever, you want your boss to have "been there". So he or she knows what you are going through and can give you counsel, and in some cases empathize with what is going on.

So that brings us to tuesday. Election day. This blog has been quiet in general, but, there is a video on you tube by a soldier that tells EXACTYLY how I feel about "super Tuesday". And to put my spin on election day.....

It is simple for me. This time next year I will be in Iraq. And if Mccain is in office I feel that with his EXPERIENCE in the military, and in life, I will be safer. With Obama...I will not be as safe. He concedes too much to make people happy...I feel.

So...if you want me to be safe...Vote for Mccain! (Eheheheh) No seriously, vote for who you wish...you who feel would lead you better. But, if you wonder why a soldier is voting the way he is...that is why...and the video below also give some insight.

Yes, it really was the day that changed everything

2008-09-11T07:27:00.000-07:00

7 years ago I woke up to go to work like any other morning. I remember my alarm going off at around 8..maybe a little before. It was on a country music station...but they were not playing Chesney...or Keith. It was a news brief....

I hit snooze.

Then it went off again. And I wondered what was going on. I went upstairs and turned the TV in my moms room on. I could not believe the pictures that I was seeing. I called my new fiance (Tiffany) and she was watching the same thing. We sat there talking about the ONE tower that had been hit. Then the other was hit. We were shocked. She went to school later that day...I went to work. But not before I watched 2000+ people die on TV. I audibly yelled NO when the towers fell. I knew that life would never be the same.

At the sprint store that day we played the news all day. We did not do much. Some people came it...and they were glued to the TV. Some wept right there in the store. I think that was how people were on the day pearl harbor was attacked.

That was the day that I feel the Lord put me on the path that leads me to where my family is today. I raised my right hand and enlisted in the Army infantry almost 5 years to the day later. I joined because I know that I have what it takes to lead men and bring them home. I feel that God has given me that gift. I needed to serve. To try to make a difference.

So here we are...almost 2 years later....and we feel that we have never been more in a right place than we are right now.

I dont know if I will jump into this fight yet...we will know soon. I do know that I am ready. I thank all of your for your support of me and my family during this time...and we appreciate all of your continuing prayers.

Jerm

Learned this in arabic....

2008-08-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

So, Hassam is one of my teachers in Arabic. He is from Iraq, and used to work with the Army over there as a translator. Before the war he was a human rights activist and had at least 6 attempts on his life. He told us something in class I NEVER knew.

2 months before the war...Saddam knew we were going to come in. Just knew it. So...he let ALL of the prisoners out of jail. All of them(150,000). Murderers, thieves, you name it...they went back on the streets. And wouldn't you know it....all of the buildings that housed the records for said criminals were destroyed by "looting" during the early days of the war.

Interesting.....

Hassam was also saying that before, if you killed someone, or stole a car etc, that the local militias would deal with you in the manner they sought fit. But...with so many of those militias now fighting americans....and other sects...those that LOVED commiting those acts had someplace to go. Becuase there...they could kill, steal, etc...but this time it was in the name of God. So that made it ok.

Did any of you hear about that on the news? I don't remember it. I bet we were not counting on those extra 150,000 running loose on the streets when we went in. If we were...I think the timetable would have looked a bit differently.

Can't wait to do with C....

2008-08-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

So...the other day I was doing something with Coop...and I had a thought. Man...I can't wait till he is old enough to see the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Yes...I know...its weird. But, just to hear him ask questions...see the look in his eye as Aragorn takes up his sword and his rightful place. The wonder that is involved.

But, thats not all. I also want to see the look in his eyes when he catches his first fish on his own. Or hits a baseball into the outfield. Throws a spiral. Makes a basket.

Do you all know what I mean? I know that my parents read this from time to time...and they may remember some of that stuff with us kids. (And if they dont thats ok) So...here is a list (some silly of course) of what I am looking forward seeing him do... (and I will just stick with C now...I will write about the other kiddo when he/she comes to see us)
-Driving a car
-hitting a golf ball (uncle chub will help with this one)
-first date
-a sunrise
-getting a good grade in school
-looking at his wife
-looking at his child
-graduating college
-reading to us
-riding a bike
-pulling a 720 front-side flair tail whip on said bike in the X-games (lol....that would be sweet though)
-getting his first puppy
-learning to tie his shoes.....

So there are a few things...what about your son or daughter? What are some things that you look forward to??

Arabic- Doughnuts- T-shirts

2008-08-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

Week one is done! UGH! Yep, I have finished my first week of Arabic language training. Yes, that sounds VERY military, but, that's what they call it. On the outside...it is a university level Arabic class, that when we are done at the end of 10 months, we will know more and be more fluent than that of a student taking 2 years at a university. Wow...we'll see.

It is H A R D ! Not easy. We have been taught the alphabet this week. Notice I said taught...not "we learned." I still am not super comfortable with the whole thing yet. I am better than on Monday, but...its rough.

So...just to let you know what I am dealing with. Arabic has 28 letters in the alphabet. They can EACH be written 4 different ways depending on where they are in a word. AND depending on what "modifying" character they have over the top...they can have 4 different sounds too!!!! HA! (it makes you want to suck start a shotgun)

Yea...so we have a limited vocabulary right now....they taught us about 20 words/phrases. Yep....I said taught.

We have 10 months of this. They will be going super in depth on the language, culture and HOW to translate. The nice part is they are really gearing all of this to how it will co-inside with Army operations. And as a "shooter", it is very imperative to my job to be able to communicate the the locals. In the end...it could save lives, mine, my buddies, or guys in another unit that I don't even know about. That part is pretty cool. And when you put that kind of spin on it, it makes studying a little easier.

So...it has been rough, but there are some up sides to this whole thing.
A-off every day at 4:30
B-NO FIELD PROBLEMS FOR THE NEXT 10 MONTHS! Nope...I will NEVER be away from the fam doing Army stuff for the next 10 months.
C-Will be home for sure for the next baby!
D-off every day at 4:30

So..there ya go for my update....on army stuff...

Coop woke Tiff and I up this morning. He came in and said he needed to go potty. When he was done he comes in and says "Hi daddy! Are you awake?" Yes I am bud. "How did you sweep?" Like a rock man! "Cool.....I swept wike a doughnut!" LOL...so stinking funny!!

Tiff is doing well with the new kiddo. At the awkward none of my cloths fit stage...but....shes hot.(not like temperature hot)

I love t-shirts....I found a site that is awesome...check this out.

Back from Yak

2008-06-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

I am back from 2 weeks at Yakima. It felt like I was gone for longer than that with OPNET (our stryker school) being the 3 weeks prior to that. Long nights at OPNET then BAM! Off to Yakistan. It was pretty crazy.

This Yakima trip was much different than the other 3 I have been on-
A-We have our strykers
B-It was NOT 10 degrees out
C-See A&B

The trip itself was actually fun. We were all really dirty from all the dust the strykers kicked up (from this point forward I am going to call them trucks), no shower...most of the time there. And the chow was sub par...again most of the time.

Mission wise...it was cool. We did an Ambush on some AQI (Al Quieda in Iraq) forces...with some intel we got from them we did a raid on a small town. -THAT was fun. We hit the town at about 0430 (AM) and we used blanks and had some OPFOR (bad guys) Shooting back at us. We had our MILES (Lazer tag like stuff) on...so it made it KINDA realistic. I was second dude through a doorway upstairs. Well...I saw the machine gunner first, lit up my tac light to blind him, which it did and he froze just long enough for me to get e few rounds headed his direction. BUT, with one squeeze of his trigger he sent about 10 "friends" my direction. Bummer. So we both sat down...beeping. It was funny when my squad leader and team leader had to get me out to the MEV (the medical truck) They had dudes pulling security...laying down cover fire...it was all pretty cool. And they did not realize how heavy I was. hehehe.....not fat...just big.

The next thing we did was a few days later. We did a company live fire. We attacked another compound. But this time we set a breaching charge on the door. THAT WAS AWESOME! It made a big ole' boom! It was fun stuff. Especially at night. By the way....we woke up that morning at 5....and we finished that mission at 0430 the NEXT day! ugh....it was a bummer.

The next day we had a company mission. It was kinda lame....although we did get to use a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) Yea...they said the UAV saw only 2 in the compound. Whatever....I led a team in....guess the other SEVEN where hiding. We did well. My squad leader made me a team leader for this mission, as well as another specialist, Luker. He said we rocked...even though the mission did not go as planned (none of them do) we did well. So that was cool.

One of the coolest things that happened while we were there was AHA guard. (Ammo handling area) There were 6 of us that got selected to go...it meant alot of sleep, a shower, and a trip to the shoppette for some real food! The coolest thing was that there was a "Long Tabber" there. (SF Green Beret) Yea...on guard with us! They pull that some duty too! It was pretty funny. we never thought they did any of that. Guess they do. So we got to talk alot with this guy. Really laid back, typical SF guy. Quiet, calm, chill, but you can tell he can kick....well...you know.

So I am home now...and am going to back to work tomorrow. But I will be there for 3 days then another weekend. So that's cool. And, 2 of my favorite people are coming out here a week from today!!!!

STUD Driver

Coming back from the Company mission

WHAT A STUD!

1st Squad, 3rd Platoon-The Dirty Pirates

Stryker drag race!

2008-06-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, Tiff and I decided that we wanted to add another to the Nevil ranks. Well, we have not been all that successful, lets face it, you either are, or aren't. I have to say, it has been REALLY disappointing. With cooper...we just, found out. There was no "trying"...he just surprised us. But, now I know what its like to try...and it not work out the way you want. It can be such a heart breaking process!

We have been praying for God to give us another child. And we have learned alot about timing in the last 2 years. But it was just not happening. (I was beginning to think that the gas chamber during basic broke me!!! I KNEW I SHOULDN'T HAVE GONE IN THERE!)

So...I get a picture mail the other day from Tiff while I was getting our stryker ready to go. A picture of a pregnancy test and the tag:Tee Hee Hee. It was2 lines, positive!!! I just started laughing....kinda teary laugh, but a joyous laugh none the less!

I am on cloud nine right now. We don't know why God waited till now, but we know that this is when he wanted us to go down this road. So..we are relying on Him every step, and can't wait to see what this new little one has in store for us!

2008-05-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

I know...I am awful at this. I knew I would be. But...Tiff does alot on her blog...so sometimes I just feel too much info would be overkill. So...I let her put it out. But, I have been too lazy and need to post here.

I had my wisdom teeth pulled yesterday. It was a much better experience than I thought it would be. I was really..REALLY nervous about going under all the way. But...man...what a way to fly!!! It was cool. Everything in the surgurey went well. They did get into my sinus cavity a bit...but that is not a big deal. Right now I am swollen a bit...and am on some SA-WEET meds!

***Note*** When leaving the hospital and are still a little doped up....that is the ONLY time it makes hugging your nurse ok.

So...I am now enjoying the weather here...and a few days off work. I am glad the weather is working out....I am sick of the 50 degree temps and rain.

Last week was cool. We had a family day at my unit. And what says family like an 8 mile road march???!!! Tiff and Coop went with me...it was awesome!! Tiff totaly rocked all 8 miles! She was a trooper! We did it in about 2.5 hours. That is an EIB (expert infantry badge) 15 minute/mile pace! She is awesome. We soldier were in "full kit" ie; helmet, vest, weapon. But...we decided after 2 miles that our wives should walk...a few hundred meters in our shoes so to speak. Tiff was amazed how had it was to walk with all that stuff on! She did say she had a new appreciation for what I do. That was very sweet of her.

After the march we had a cookout. It was alot of fun to visit with the other families...and it was cool that my son got a pic behind the business end of a 50 CAL SNIPER RIFLE!

I love those pics!!! That thing is litterly twice his size!!!!

There we are>> Happy....before the march!!

As far as other stuff going on, we are going to Yakistan (yakima) in June for about 2 weeks. But we are going with our strykers...so that will be sweet! WE can finally be a medium infantry unit!! WOOHOOO!!!

My mom and Ashlynn are going to be here in July...CAN'T WAIT!!!!! And Tiff an coop are going to be out the St. Louis way while I am at Yakistan. (so...if there is anyone out there with some ticket tips...vouchers collecting dust...bla bla bla.....we could make some use of them!)

"Just in case....

2008-03-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

I need to jack some foo!" My wives exact words when she saw her new knife. It caught me off guard....it was sooo stinking funny. I love that woman.

Hippies....

2008-03-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

Heh...so yea. Being a member of the United States Military, my profession is not too popular with some people. Frankly, I dont care. I dont care if you disagree with the war. I dont mind if you disagree but support the troops. But, if your version of supporting the troops involves us turing tail and leaving Iraq. Shut up. If it involves you trying to "shut down" recruiting stations. Seriously? If it means that you call us mass murderers, rapists, pillagers, or any other negative term....BUZZ OFF! We dont need that kind of "support".

I will say that they are the MINORITY in this country. I can't tell you how many times I have gone through an airport in uniform and been physically stopped so they can say thanks. Heck...I have even had a man buy me a beer. (VERY cool) So I know that the vast majority of those that are actually proud to call themselves Americans do support us. And that does help. We appreciate it.

I also appreciate it when hippies are made fun of.
http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=163653&title=marines-in-berkeley

Rough 2 weeks

2008-03-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a rough 2 weeks. Mainly just rough on my 29 year old body. I know that I am not THAT old. But, I sure did feel like it after these last couple of weeks!

First off, we had our "Dog Soldier team Competition". That was last week. It was 3 days long, and was a bunch of combat oriented events that we competed in against other fire teams in the company. Originally I was not even going to be n the thing because I am the RTO (radio-telephone-operator) for my platoon. BUT, they needed a team leader for my squad and the chose me...so that was cool.

The first day started at 0600. a 4 mile equipment run/pull-up competition. We had to first run 4 miles in "full kit". IBA (body armor vest), MICH(helmet), weapon(M4) and camel back. We traded off the SAW (squad automatic weapon) because it can be a beast. We did pretty good in that event. Placed 4th overall. (there were 15 teams in the event(s) )

Then came pull-ups. We did not do well. I could not even do 1!!! I am 210 BEFORE I put any equipment on....add 25-35 more pounds of kit...well....it ain't easy. I weigh more WITHOUT anything on than most of these "kids" do in full kit......holding a 10 year old. (FYI...I can do about 8 pull-ups without kit....I know...still weak...but I am working on it.) Oh....we had 1 minute to rest after the race to do the pull ups. Ugh.

Next was a weapon assembly/functions check. They had 4 weapons completely disassembled and under a poncho..and when they pulled it back we had to put them together and perform a functions check as fast as we could. We really blew on that one. 10th. Then we had a test on the infantry manual. not bad.3rd. Then the commo test. We had to load a radio and put it into operation as fast as we could. 2nd baby!! Oh yea...its good sometimes being the RTO. Last event of the day was the medical skills test...not bad again. 5th.

The next day was a smoker. It started with a 6 mile ruck march with a 45 pound ruck. Still in IBA, helmet and weapon. Normally when we ruck...we don't carry the weapon or wear the other gear...but this time we did. OUCH. 6th place. We ended the ruck at a gun range. We did a close quarters marksmanship event/stress shoot. We had to soot from various positions and put 2 rounds through designated targets from 25 meters out. The stress shoot was the sameting cept we got smoked in between the shots. 5th.

That afternoon we went over to the obstacle/confidence course. I USED to like these types of things....but man...they are H A R D. Our feet were torn up, we were tired...ugh. 8th. And the end of day 2. I went home and went to bed at 7.....Why???

Because we had to be at work the next morning at 2 friggin am!!! THATS WHY! That morning we had land nave competition followed by a combatives comp. The land nave was rough. It went from 0400 to 0900. And we probably walked another 8-12 miles. 6th. Then combatives. 9th.

Ugh...it was a rough week...overall we came in 6th place. Which I was happy with. Some of it was fun...but...it hurt. I am glad we have a 4 day this weekend to recoop.

This last week we were out in the field most days. But on Thursday it was the worst. we went on a 9 mile tactical foot march......in the POURING rain. Then did some react to contact training....in the rain. I was soaked. AND...my feet that were kinda healed from the prior week....were now worse. On top of all of that...I had a monster drink blow up in my pack. bummer.

So there was my last 2 weeks of army stuff. I guess I did get to do something cool. I threw 2 LOVE hand grenades. That was sweet.

Coop and Tiff are doing well. We are looking forward to bama Richards coming to see us next week. That will be cool.

So there is an update....long...but hey...I have been busy!

LOL...midgets rock!

2008-03-11T20:35:00.001-07:00

Me + Blog = not alot of updates

2008-03-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

I know....I stink. I will have some stuff up soon. We are doing a "Dog Soldier Challenge" this week. Basically it will be a smoke-fest from 0630 till 1700 everyday. So....that should be fun. I will throw something up here later in the week.

Jerm

Fixed it!

2008-02-07T19:28:00.000-08:00

Ok...so those of you that know me well, (I say that like more thane 4 people are actually reading this thing) you know I am not the most handy man that has had the Nevil name. There is only one other that is less handy than I. (sorry chub) But my wifes washer was broken...and it needed fixing.

I fixed it! Yes...me. I took the pump out of the thing, took it apart, removed a guitar pick ( I do NOT know how THAT got in there) and reinstalled the pump. Still didn't work. Then I inspected the hose. 5 Cents. A nickel. There it was in all its glory. UGH. Yea...definately my fault. Again.

See....this is not the first time I had made a monitary donation to the washer. The last time it was a quarter and it was making a horrible sound when it would drain. Thankfully the repair tech did not charge us for the service call.

So...I am on cloud 9 right now. So is my wife. For some reason...she loves to do laundry. Its weird. But, my lady is happy...so I am happy.

GO ME!

My feet

2008-02-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

They hurt.

50 pounds + 5 miles in and hour and a half = tender tootsies!!

Yakima, the second tour

2008-02-02T08:49:00.000-08:00

On thursday at 2 am we pulled into the company area back in Ft. Lewis. 10 hours after we departed yakima. NORMALLY it takes about 3 hours. But they closed the pass due to some avalanches! Bummer. So we had to take the long way.

On the whole, we got ALOT of good training. And Alpha company 3rd platoon was head and shoulders above the rest of the battalion. We rocked the 360 degree shoothouse, and because of that got to do a "Comapany Level" mission. (it ended up being a raid on a training compound with mortars and gun trucks shooting like crazy)

We went with 2 things on our to-do list.
#1-360 degree shoothouse.
What the heck is that some of you ask? It is a building that had multiple rooms and hallways. And we were able to use live ammo. Dont worry mom, we could NOT shoot through the walls. They had a special pad that was about 6 inches thick all the way araound every room that prevented the bullets fro traveling through. We were 100% safe.

We had to clear it of all enemy, collect all information, and getout. It was sweet! The guys did a great job. There are 3 fundamentals to MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain)
-Speed
-Security
-Violence of Action
They had all 3...especially the last one!! It was amazing! The team work, communication...it was all perfect! The Battallion XO (Executive Officer..Major Jennings) Said he could find nothing wrong with our live fire run. It was sweet.

The second thing we did was the MPTR course. I have no idea what it stands for...sorry. It was basically a company level mission. We had mortars "soften up" the target area, and fire support from 4 Hummvees with .50 caliber machine guns. They would supress the target and then we would go in and take it down. Again...the guys did awesome! Communicated well, and Shot (killed) every thing in sight! Now...I know some of you (mom) dont really like that, but, the intel we had said EVERYONE inside the compound (Al Queda training camp) was hostile. So, it made the decision making process alot easier.

If you have noticed I have been saying "the Guys" alot. That is because for this trip up there I was doing my job as RTO. (Radio Telephone Operator) I was the radio link between our platoon and "higher". (The company commander, mortars, the gun trucks etc..) I had to report all SITREPs (Situation Reports) to higher, casualties, call the 9 line medivac (a medical stryker came barreling in) make sure the pickup site was marked, and just keep the communications gear all working for the platoon.

It was a really cool learing experience. I got to sit in on all of the AARs. (After action reports) And that was all of the men that were watching us move, as well as the squadleaders, Platoon Leader (Lt.) and Platoon SGT. So I was in some pretty high level meetings. I was there because wherever the Lt goes....I go. I am attached to his hip 100% of the time. So I learned a TON! So when my time comes to be in leadership (which they say is comming soon) I feel that I will have the upper hand.

So...all in all good trip. Alot different than last time. We got to stay in the barracks, use the PX Shoppette, and the rec center. It was alot like a regular deployment. --Go out, do a mission, come back, clean weapons-then relax-- It was cool. We are going back in march do do another shoothouse and the urban assault course. I hope by then I have my E4 and am a team leader. We will see.

I have a few pics that I will put up on FLICKR later today.

L8r!

Monster Truck Jam blues

2008-01-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

Learned alot on Saturday.
#1- The city of Tacoma has some really cool stuff
#2- The train that runs down there is free
#3- The monster truck jam WILL sell out...and then double in price the next day if you didnt buy your tickets a week ahead of time
#4- It is possible to build a Millennium Falcon out of legos that is 2 feet across!

So yea..it was a bummer, but coop is still young enough not to freak out. To be honest I was more upset than he was! Tiff put up pics of our adventure with the Hewitts on the flickr site. Check it out!

This will probably be my last post till after I get back from Yakima.

L8r!

Back to Yak.

2008-01-19T09:07:00.000-08:00

Next week our battalion is going back up to Yakima for Platoon Exvals. Its basically a progress test for the platoon. We will be doing to live fire shoot houses, patrols, and some raids and maybe some recon missions. It should be pretty sweet.

My current job in the platoon is RTO. I am the radio guy that is attached to the PLs (Platoon Leader..a Lieutenant) hip. Ugh. Basically I dont get to do any of the fun stuff. Like clearing the buildings....shooting. I am the link between the platoon and "Higher". (Company level leadership) It is an important role...and you don't want a moron doing it.

Its a bit of a bummer because we have not needed an RTO until now. I have always been slated to do it, but I have been a team leader for the better part of 3 months now...and have fallen in love with that job. I have been pretty successful at it too. But there is nobody to fill my role as RTO now...so that is what I am going to do. The leadership in the platoon knows that it is temporary, as do I...but the experience as team leader in Yak is priceless. I really wanted another shot.

RTO is where the Lord wants me now. That's cool. I'll be the best RTO in the company. Keep me and my guys in your prayers this next week. We will be cold...real cold. Although it looks like we will be staying in the barracks up there! WOOHOO!!! So it wont be that bad. But..it does not get above 30 during the day...so it will still be dang cold.

Also lift up Tiff. This will be the longest she will be without my help since I have joined. (That is without family around too) Coop can be a challenge when I am gone for more that 1 or 2 nights. And I am going to be out for 11.

I will probably throw up another post today or tomorrow.....We are going to MONSTER JAM!!!! (monster truck show)

So cold....and not dry

2008-01-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

So...I was in the field on thursday night. We left on wednesday at noon to go on a mission. We were to take down a house...and secure the area. It was awesome!!

As an infantry guy...I LOVE M.O.U.T. (Military operations in urban terrain) And we are in Leschi Town. It is like disney land! It is an urban training town. Yes...town. It is huge. Every kind of building you could think of is there...and there is a video camera in every room! It is really cool. A great place to train.

So..we hit the house. I took my team up stairs to clear it. I got 3 kills. It was REALLY intense. But...so fun!

After we hit the house we moved back into the woods and moved about a mile or so. at this time is was 4 in the afternoon. No rain. Kinda cold...but we were moving..no big deal.

It started raining at 4:30. And we set up our patrol base shortly there after. That is where we get in a circle....guns facing out...not talking...not moving much. You eat in shifts....pull guard in shifts...sleep in shifts. It can be rough. It was rough. I have never been colder. No kidding...it was probable the most miserable I have ever been. So there we are...25 guys...rough tough infantrymen...sucking. We were all shivering...and kinda wet.

I say kinda because we did have our gortex. It is ALOMOST water proof. Some of us were soaked. I was not...but...man...the ground I was laying on was so cold.

We lay there for 5 hours before we got up. We moved to our ambush point. We got intel that a 3 vehicle convoy was going to come our direction...sometime in the night. So we sat there, on the side of the road...hidden, ready to open fire as soon as they got into our "Kill Zone". We were ready for sure. Had our big guns set in...and all my guys were ready to shoot.

The convoy did not show until 3 am!!!! Oh yea...it was still raining and getting colder. We shot up the vehicles (with blanks) and "killed" all of the bad guys in them. Searched the vehicles for intel...weapons...and we were out. From the first shot...to our whole platoon leaving the area......12 minutes. It was very fast. And thats how ambushes should be. Very fast...VERY deadly.

We were then supposed to go back to the town to get on a Warm bus and go to a Warm home. But we took the short but LONG way home. It was the most rough terrain I have been through! A toddler would have had a rough time getting through some of the places we were goiong through....with weapons....packs....in body armor. Ugh...it was terrible!!!!!

But we made back....were wet...cold...but it did not last forever. It never does. And I am better for it. We all had to suck it up...and did. Looking back...i.t was actually kinda cool. Not too many get to do what I do.

The view from the band wagon

2008-01-12T09:44:00.000-08:00

OK....so I am on it now. I am no where near the writer my wife is. http://www.quietgardens.wordpress.com

I have no idea what this is going to be...I guess there really wont be a theme other than my life. Whats going on...what I am feeling, doing, not doing. We will see. Yes...there will be Army stuff. Hope you all enjoy it...maybe even *gasp* get something out of it! Or...maybe I will get something...we will see!

Jerm