Marsmen.org

Neglectful
Given the steady state operations, there just isn't much to write about. I'll try to catch everyone up on the latest happenings in the Troop and the Squadron...though Squadron information is a little sketchy since we're all spread out on different missions and I don't get many opportunities to speak to the other Troops.

Troop A has now taken over all ECP operations in the VBC with much needed help from troopers in HHT. Though it doesn't seem as glamorous as running patrols outside the wire, it has it's moments. Take the recent surprise visit by President Obama. It's always amazing to see Air Force One land, especially against the dust filled skies over Baghdad. And to see his convoy pass by is a pretty interesting sight, especially with the helicopter gunship support flying overhead. We've come to see the local government officials (the Iraqi President, Prime Minister, and various Vice Presidents) as a boring daily occurrence, so a new foreign head of state is a pleasant change in pace.

I had an opportunity to speak with Troop B's First Sergeant last week and he says they're equally hard at work on ECPs in the International Zone. The IZ has been turned back over to the Iraqi government but there is still US oversight and Troop B still sends troopers out to the ECPs to make sure the Iraqi Army soldiers do their job right.

HHT has taken over the defensive operations centers for the entire VBC and has oversight of Troop A's ECP mission. I haven't really had any opportunity to follow-up with Troop C, but I'm told they're enjoying their Joint Visitor's Bureau mission...and who wouldn't, given the various celebrities and dignitaries they get to meet.

I have uploaded a few more pictures and am sorting through more that I've received from 1st Platoon, Troop A. I've spoken with the CSM about getting more pictures from him and will work to get those uploaded and posted as soon as possible. I apologize for the infrequent updates, but there's only so much to say about life in paradise and the running of ECPs.

On a more somber note, please keep Specialist Christopher Loza in your thoughts and prayers. He is a member of my platoon and has become seriously ill...enough to be sent to Walter Reed for treatment. I'm told his wife and mother are there with him and he's stable.

Posted by SFCWyatt Wednesday, April 08, 2009 (17:10:16)