Saturday, 03 January, 2009

So, here we are, 2009. As most people do, I have deemed some things lacking and have resolved to change them through this upcoming year. One of these things being communication with friends and family. I am a little unsure how all of this blogging works, but I hope you find it somewhat entertaining and informative, (and I hope I get it all figured out as well...)

I have found my position of platoon sergeant to be considerably different than imagined. In the modern Army, most of the decisions made are dictated down from higher, which gives me little opportunity to make any decisions that affect my soldiers. Since platoon leadership is kept off the convoys (that decision was also handed down from above), I have busied my days passing messages from my superiors to my subordinates, and turning wrenches with the mechanics.

Most of my days begin at 0530 with a grueling physical fitness session. Although it is a healthy habit to get into, and it betters me in many ways, I find it difficult to be motivated about running around outside in shorts and a jacket when it is only in the 30's. My soldiers feel the same way. Two questions: 1. Can't the Army get physically fit when it is light outside?
2. Seriously, in the 30's, in Kuwait, doing PT, why are we not using one of the three gyms?

By 0830, I have already run three miles, showered, shaved (again), eaten another "home cooked" meal at the DEFAC, planned everyone's work day, and made my way to the motorpool for "work formation". This is about the extent of my leadership opportunities, as I have ultimate authority on who does what with the trucks each day.

After a couple of meetings, constant traffic through my office, and a couple of senseless formations, my day begins to wrap up around 1800. I will be offered a wonderful meal at the chow hall before I hole up in front of "The Office", "Scrubs", or my PS2 for the evening.

This is the life of the modern day soldier in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. There has been alot to get used to, alot of differences from the last deployment, and many surprises (both good and bad). I am learning alot for my return to the civilian management world, and I anxiously await my reunion with you all, especially Jessica, Monster and J.

More later...