“Over-the-berm”…again
After returning from a wonderful time on leave with the Stoner Six, extended family, and friends - it was time to return to the desert.
Leaving was tough on me, not in an overwhelming “sad” way or “nervous” way - but an angry way.
The first time I departed left me sad - as I looked at how long I would be apart from the family and a bit anxious - as I did not know what to expect or what the outcome might be.
This time I was angry. Angry that I had to leave the family, angry that I could no longer partcipate in their daily routine, and angry that I could not hold them/hug them/kiss them and tuck them in.
When Tiffany hugged me and kissed me goodbye, I turned away with the only one thing on my mind, getting back to Iraq. I wanted to get back, get the mission completed, get ALL of my soldiers home, and get back to raising our children with my wife.
It took 4 days to get back into theatre. We experienced multiple 6/8/12 hour delays and flight cancellations. When we finally arrived at the Kuwait airport, we traveled by bus for a couple of hours to be pre-positioned to go North (Iraq) on a military transport plane.
When I stepped off the bus; I dawned my body armor, put on my Kevlar helmet, slung my ruck across my back and boarded the C-130. It was a familiar sight, as I cycled-through the mental pictures of the first time we came over-the-berm and entered into combat. Although the mental pictures were familiar, the feeling was completely different.
The feeling this time was not of nervous bravery, but of complete confidence. I had been here before, sustained operations, and had been flying combat missions - since the summer.
The mission here feels normal, like it’s my occupation. I was telling people on leave, “you absolutely can get used to anything.”
It’s been a long tour, it will be great to get back to life in our town and something closer to “normal.”
Tim, I respect you. I am proud of you. I love you.
Stacy Meyer - March 8th, 2008 at 10:21 amDear Tim:
I was wondering what kind of food you and the troops eat in Iraq for breakfast, lunch and dinner? Do you like the shortbread Girl Scout cookies? Or what are your favorites? If you think you would like them I would love to send you some!
I hope you are well.
Love,
Hattie
TRowe - March 9th, 2008 at 8:25 pmSo well said! I understand the anger as many of us have the same emotion. You and your troops belong @ home with family and loved ones…and soon you will be back with us.
You looked wonderful and as always, you are the very best hugger in the world. Your tendency to make it a meaningful gesture to all you wrap your arms around is felt by all.o
Be safe and know that we love you dearly and await your safe return. You, your men and women are constantly in
our prayer, thoughts and hearts.
xoxox
Jean - March 9th, 2008 at 10:00 pmHattie,
Thank you very much for thinking of us over here and your willingness to send us cookies & a bit of home!
We no longer will be able to receive mail, since it may not get here in time before we leave.
Thank you so much and I’ll see you when we return!
tim - March 10th, 2008 at 10:28 amTim
Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. He is my Loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me.
Psalm 144:1-2
May God protect and guide you during these last few days in Iraq. We’ll see you very soon.
Tim, Alfega, Sami, and Timmy
I cry out to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble. When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you(Lord) who know my way. Psalm 142:1-3
Tim & Alfega - March 10th, 2008 at 1:18 pmWhat is the origin of the term ruck sack? Thank you Jeeves. Hurry home!
Aunt 9 - March 10th, 2008 at 4:01 pm