Marsmen.org

The Squadron is on the ground
I can finally divulge that the Squadron is on the ground and settling into it's mission. We're a little spread out, but all is well so far. Alpha Troop has assumed command of the force protection mission here in our little corner of the Victory Base Complex and, as usual, we're shining. Okay, maybe a little modesty is in order. But the guys are working hard and learning their new jobs quickly and well. Life on Slayer is pretty good. If we're not in a lake house, we're living in trailers. Definitely a step up from our last time here...especially for me because the haji tent I lived in last time was blown away by a sand storm. These living quarters don't blow away.

You all have our addresses now. I would say that snack foods are appreciated but we are fed so well here, I don't know if we can find the space in our stomachs for anything else. Phone cards are a nice thing to have, especially if your loved one ended up buying a cell phone over here. Where we live on Slayer tends to get pretty crappy service but it still works for the most part. Iraqna and Asia Cell are the two providers and they sell prepaid phone cards to recharge the cell phones. It is also possible to buy international calling cards and call the Iraqi cell phone from home for a decent rate. Incoming calls and text messages to both networks are free. We just pay for outgoing calls and text messages.

The DFAC (dining facility) has Dr. Pepper! Or at least HAD Dr. Pepper. It seems they've run out now that the Texans are here. You would think someone would have the foresight to order an abundance before we hit the ground to accommodate the surge in Dr. Pepper consumption. Maybe they've learned their lesson.

Stay tuned, I'll try to have more to post later. I'm thinking about writing a few posts about the history of this area for those history buffs and those that are just curious. Once I've had time to settle down, I'll start the research.

Posted by SFCWyatt Sunday, November 30, 2008 (22:14:20)