First impressions

photo by Justin Bielss

So here we are,… about a month into the deployment.  What impresses me most so far?  Well, a lot of things.  For my first deployment, I'm surprised at the living conditions.  Not sure what I was expecting, but let's just say there is a lot of walking around,.. no big deal, I could stand to lose a few pounds.  The environment is harsh.  Nothing but super find dust and rocks, cold and dry, and mountains all around us… many of them already covered in snow. I once read about something called the military industrial complex. I get it now.  Between Bagram and the FOB that I'm at, I can see it all around me.  Billions and billions of dollars being spent to support the mission over here.  Contractors from all around the world working here.  Tons of infrastructure and what not… It's pretty impressive.  On a personal side, I'm impressed at how people can adapt and overcome.  I guess living in this environment and on these "terms" people can get pretty creative.  The holidays are upon us, but honestly, I've already forgotten what day it is anymore.  I know it's the month of December.  My days are dictated by a colorful excel spreadsheet telling me what I'm doing the next day.  I do miss my family and friends tremendously and the good part at least is; after this month I'll be one month closer to getting home.