Monday, September 27, 2004
Crispy Bags
Well, hell froze over last night. I got a call from our Passenger Terminal, or PAX, telling me that all three of my A-bags finally arrived. If you remember, I arrived here in Iraq the uniform on my back and my carry-on bag... no luggage. I had to wait until 1 October before I could make a lost luggage claim and receive compensation for my things that were lost. 3 days... I only had 3 days to go, but they found them. Of course I am thrilled to get a couple of things back, but most of it must be fried to a crisp by now.
Those bags were located sitting out in the hot 120 degree sun down in Qatar. I tried to lift them by their handles but the bags were just tearing apart because they were deep fried for 30+ days. I have yet to open any of them... I'll do that tonight, but I'm afraid at what I might find. If anything is damaged, and I can only imagine most if it is, then I can claim those items at least. C'mon... Daddy needs a new digital camera! Seriously, I'm sure the camera is fried. We shall see.
Last night I was up on the rooftop, enjoying a cigar my brother in law sent in a care package. Beautiful night, except for the small firefight we had just behind the gate. Someone was taking pot shots at us, so our guards gleefully returned fire to convince these poor souls that they chose the wrong career path. Not sure what came of it, but the fireworks were a sight to see.
Other than that, everything is going great. We're doing some great work on the infrastructure in the area, as well as keeping the peace in the region. The Army guys on base took an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) while driving into town, but everyone walked away with their lives thanks to the new armor they've put on most of the Humvees and vehicles around here. It's amazing how quickly we've adapted to the AIF (Anti-Iraqi Forces) tactics across this region.
Clausewitz, the brilliant 19th century Prussian military 'dude' who's writings shaped our military, as well as Szun Tzu, the even more brilliant Chinese general who's writings from over 2,000 years ago effect our military tactics and training, both wrote about the importance of adapting to one's enemies. If they could see us they would be so proud. FYI here's great article written by an up-and-coming genius about Clausewitz. If you get a chance, click here and tell me what you think. (He accepts donations and free beer as well if you like what you read)
It's off to chow and then I must open my deep fried luggage to see what Santa has brought me this year. Wish me luck.
posted by El Capitan at 11:01 AM
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