Since we deployed, training has been everyday; 7 days-per-week. However, a couple of weeks ago we also added 24-hour operations. We needed to complete more Aviation training that is geared to test our collective skills (pilot, crew chief, flight medic, maintenance, operations, communications, etc.). From the collective training, we immediately moved into [...]
We received the third stage of the Anthrax immunization this week, but experienced no major side-effects. Although we cannot fly directly after the immunization, we have plenty of other classes to keep us busy.
We are flying every day and night - as we continue to ramp-up and build proficiency.
Take care,
Tim
I have always known that I will command young soldiers in combat, but it caught me off guard today when the birth years were called out to the soldiers. Specifically, I have several soldiers whose birth year is 1988. 1988? 1988? I was in college in 1988!
These kids will grow up very [...]
We received the second stage of the Anthrax immunization and the troops are definitely feeling it. The first immunization left a small knot in the back of the arm and this second one is noticeably worse. The majority of the guys also received the small pox vaccination and has left a few lethargic [...]
I really need to stay away from newspapers and the evening news for the next year. And, I need to remind myself to do so. But here I am waiting on my van to get serviced…so I pick up USA Today. The leading article is “Copter Attacks”. You would think I would just set it [...]
Also this week, we completed the academic and hands-on training on the MK19 (pronounced “Mark 19″ ) and M2 .50 cal (pronounced “ma deuce” or “50 cal”) weapons systems. The MK19 is a machine gun that shoots grenades (unbelivable weapon) and the .50 cal that is used against equipment and “light-skinned” armored vehicles. [...]
We received the highly-controversial anthrax vaccination this week. Along with protein that is developed from the anthrax bacteria, the vaccination contains several things including: alluminum and formaldehyde.
Our orders state that the anthrax vaccination is not required for deployment, but the Army passed a new law earlier this year that mandated the vaccination for all [...]
All, Thank you all for your unbelievable support and care for our family!!! We are truly blessed to have you in our lives! Thank you!Most of the flight crews arrived late Sunday evening and the rest of our troops, by bus, Monday morning at 4:00AM. We’ve been immersed in multiple “in-briefs,” coordination meetings, inventories, unpacking, [...]