Here is what has been happening over the past week. I have qualified day and night vision goggle aerial gunnery. Which basically means I hit the required amount of targets by firing the machine gun out the side of the helicopter as we fly along at approximately 80 miles per hour. The targets are very large so its sounds more impressive than it really is.We were issued new machine guns (240h). They are impressive. They shoot approximately 690 rounds per minute. Also we were issued some of our gear that we take to Iraq. A new helmet, 2 new backpacks, new boots, and new long underwear. I didn't think that I would need long underwear over there expecially when the day time temps right now are 110 degrees. Some of the guys over there say the temps at night can get as low as 30 at night. I better bring it along. I'm missing home cooked meals lately. Eating at the dining facility every day can get old. Memorial day we are only working half a day. I'm going to grill steaks for A company. I thought it would be a good idea to keep morale up. Some good food always helps. Being restricted to post doesn't give us any opportunities to eat at any nice restaurants. hopefully the weather will cooperate. Don't forget to honor the fallen soldiers on Memorial Day. It isn't just a excuse for a three day weekend. This country exists by the sacrifices men and women in the past have made over the years. Take care and Have a great Memorial Day!

Hi everyone ,
Just to to let you know what's been going on. On May 1, I was promoted to Sergeant First Class. Hoping One of the upcoming days I can have a promotion party for the guys in A company. It is a tradition to spend your raise on your buddies. It is tough to find time to do it when you work 7 days a week. My work schedule starts at 4:00 p.m. and goes to 4:00 a.m. We have been flying every day to get the flight crews trained on flying in a combat zone. We do alot of night flying with night vision goggles. They take any ambient light and magnify it so we are able to see pretty well in the dark. Also practicing combat maneuvers in the helicopters, which should help us avoid getting hit when shot at.
Last week was a tough week from being home. Joel (my son) turned 1 year old. My wife (Peggy) had a nice party for him. She is sending me a copy of the video from it. I can't wait to see it. She invited the relatives and everyone from the store. I'm glad Peggy and Joel have so much support from everyone. It makes the separation a little more bearable. It has already been 2 months. I should be home the end of July for block leave. I'm counting the days. Todd