Not Going To Play In The Sandbox, But The Mountains

So this week I found out I'm not deploying to the sandbox, i.e. Iraq or its nearby neighbors Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc. Instead, I'm going to Afghanistan, whose geography is more mountainous, like good old Colorado. In fact, with my job there I get to travel out to the field alot, in elevations higher than I am now, which is around 6,000 feet. So breathing won't be easier on my deployment, but I'll be better prepared for it living in Colorado!With the official notification coming this week, I'm starting to prepare mentally. I have a few months, but there's so much to do: prerequisite training/things to do, places to go, people to see, etc. All while balancing my current job which is busy enough as the exec officer for 2 units. I'm going to have to tell my commander I have stuff to do and divvy up some my duties to other folks who will have to step up. I don't think my departure will hurt the unit so much as it will hurt my boss, because he relies on me alot for things big and small. But he'll get over it. :)

Right now I'm just concentrating on getting focused mentally and physically. I'm starting to study up/freshen up on things I no-shit need to know: self-aid and buddy care, operating and handling weapons, having at least a basic knowledge of Afghanistani culture and language. Physically I'll have to step up my exercise routine and get in peak condition to handle the grind of working 12 hrs a day, 7 days a week during the deployment. All this and much more to know how to take care of myself and comrades.I have to admit at this point I'm a bit nervous because I haven't deployed before, and Afghanistan is no vacation. I haven't slept too well thinking about it. I am confident though that when I complete all my training, I will be ready to go. I will be confident yet remain vigilant...you have to in this situation.

Not Fearless, But Comforted

So since I heard my commander approved of my deployment, there's no going back now. I have to admit, I'm pretty nervous...okay, I'm a bit scared actually. Afghanistan is more dangerous now than it ever has been since this war on terrorism started in 2001.

Being in the military, you have to be tough...and I will. There will be tough times, but I know with my family, friends, comrades, and of course God, I'll be alright.