Moving In the Sand Box...

Another day...moments of wondering...some worrying...but I chased it away the moment it approached...still trying to settle into a battle rhythm...sound a little familiar? That was my day...how about you?

Chris called Nancy today and doh!...she was downstairs at our Church and out of range for only 10 minutes - and he called. Is that life or what? Fortunately, Chris popped off an email and gave us an update. More on that in a minute...

Yesterday, a mother of one of our warriors in Iraq shared a photo of his tattoo. I was touched that a young man would believe so strongly in his country, his fellow warriors and our freedom that he would place...for all to see...engraved permanently in his mind and now on his skin...words from the U.S. Army Soldiers Creed. You remember, the creed that each graduating class recited out loud and in unison during boot camp graduation...if you'd like to see it put to pictures...spend a couple of minutes watching the video below....

I can hear you now...Collabman, what did the tattoo look like? Hang with me...

As I read between the lines of Chris' email I sense that...the 2SCR is quietly getting into a battle rhythm as the day draws near for combat operations. When that time comes there will be no doubt in their minds...nor in ours...that the "fight's on."

In Chris' own words...

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 19:03:39

Hey, mom

I didn't call...actually I use the phones here at the internet place. MUCH better quality and it's way cheaper. I paid 50 bucks to use them and that got me 20 hours. 20 HOURS. That's ridiculous.

If I get time after this then I will give you a call. If not, then know that we'll be leaving tomorrow for the COP. The squad leaders had mixed feelings about it when they went out there today...we'll see.

I haven't got any pictures yet because Boyd still doesn't have the camera charger. It's in one of his duffles. But you don't want any pictures here...it's pretty boring. But I promise I will get some to you.

I love you, mom. I miss and love all of you. Thank you so much for setting up the support group. I'll talk to you soon.

Chris

I received permission today to display the tattoo of our warrior with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment...look beyond the words and tell me what you see...I think the message is crystal clear...

I love you Chris - hang in there buddy and be encouraged - our prayers surround you all...

v/r,
- Collabman

2SCR Video - On the Range in Kuwait...

As we received emails from Chris during his stay in Kuwait, I found myself wondering what the sites and sounds looked and sounded like during their staging preps - especially on the range. How did they spend some of their day?...what was their focus while getting their equipment ready? If you missed those blogs you can get a look here and here...

Well, thanks to a former 3rd Infantry Division, 981st MP Co soldier and his post on YouTube we get a glimpse of how the 2SCR fine-tuned their Strykers on the range...

Strap on your goggles, grab your ear plugs and take a peek inside the work of the 2SCR while in Kuwait...run your eyes over the Stryker vehicle and its armament...this is their transportation and protection while on patrol...sit inside the Stryker and get a birds-eye view of today's technology - and we wondered how all the hours our young warriors spent as kids holding a joystick tethered to an X-Box would ever be of use ;-)...and remember the heat they were working in...

What do you see? Could we keep up? I wonder...I am once again humbled by these warriors...

v/r,
- Collabman

Battle Rhythm...Not There Yet...

Ok, I need to share...

On my drive home from church today my mind began to consider some of the challenges the men and women of the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are confronted with today. They have many things on-going but I would guess a lot of it revolves around establishing a consistent battle rhythm. I can hear you now...Collabman, you were thinking about what? Hang with me for a minute...

For those unfamiliar with military jargon, there is no agreed upon definition for battle rhythm but this description should help you understand it a little, especially as it applies to the 2SCR...the combination and interaction of procedures, processes, leader and individual actions to facilitate extended-continuous operations. Simply put, battle rhythm allows units and leaders to function at a sustained level of efficiency for extended periods of time. Tracking?

Now, my concern is obviously not with the 2SCR - I am confident they will settle into a battle rhythm. However, what about me? I have to be honest...so far, I have not found my battle rhythm in my day-to-day routine of dealing with a son deployed to Iraq and involved in combat operations - along with everything else life brings my way on a daily basis. Say what? Well...for example...my sleep and rest patterns are messed up...my appetite is all over the map...my ability to focus on the details in the lives of my family and friends is currently lacking...my time management has tanked...but most of all, my raw emotions hit in an instant and apparently, for no reason - you can read that as...tears...

Chris and the 2SCR have 14 months and some days to go...I have got to get into a battle rhythm that is positive and healthy for me - this is a marathon, not a sprint. I get no points for crashing and burning early. Without a battle rhythm, this is really gonna be a long haul...not just for me...for my family and friends too.

I am working at it...honest, I am...

I am committed to settling into a rhythm and yes, little things make a big difference...so don't give up on me - I will be okay...

Extended-continuous operations...those three words are potentially a threat to my emotional, physical and spiritual well-being for the next 15 months if I don't adjust...

I am probably alone in these thoughts but I have to ask...how's your battle rhythm? How are you dealing/coping?

v/r,
- Collabman

Up-Tempo Operations...

Nancy received two short emails from Chris earlier today. The last one contained his snail-mail address for sending packages. More on that shortly...

When I read his first email I was not surprised - I would have guessed that the 2SCR is extremely busy getting ready for combat operations. I expect they are getting familiar with their environment, getting updates on when and how they will transition to ops, lashing up with their equipment, getting their resources in place...and more...all part of ramping up.

I have to remind myself that this process we are getting a glimpse of has been conducted over and over again in Iraq. It is somewhat comforting to know this process has a purpose - to prepare our warriors and their equipment for combat ops. Anything else would be rushed and put our soldiers at risk...Does it eliminate my fear and impatience? Absolutely not - but it helps...a little.

In Chris' own words...

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 07:09:52

Hey, mom. It's been a little hectic here and the internet is horrible, and the generator blew that ran the phones. It's been hard to get hold of anyone.

I can't view the pictures now since these computers won't allow it, but I will later. It's not that hot here, at least not as bad as it was in Kuwait. Just a liiiittle humid. I'm sorry this can't be longer but I told you about the half hour thing...I miss and love all of you. Thank you for your prayers.

Chris

Snail-Mail Address for Chris:

SPC Stevenson, Chris
D. Co 2/2 SCR
Unit # 42542
APO AE 09361


What does Chris or any soldier need in a care package? There is a wonderful site called Any Soldier - click here for an up-to-date list of what to send in a care package...but as I have blogged about and others in our support group (thanks Tom M. - you rock!) have written about...

"A soldier in Iraq can't see your ribbon,
Or the flag at your front door.
But a letter they hold in their hands,
To them means so much more." Supporter Liam Sweeny

Chris, I love you buddy - keep your head on a swivel...it will pay off...

v/r,
- Collabman

2SCR Wall of Heroes...

This has been a fairly good week for me. Chris' phone call helped tremendously, along with the social networking for the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment that has really taken hold. I am so encouraged to see people all around our great nation, who have never met face-to-face, reach out, share and say lean on me. This is not just chit chat...we are sharing real emotions, fears, joys - you name it, I have seen it shared and more importantly...I have felt it all. Marti - here is a hearty "well done" ma'am - I am sure David is so proud of you!

What would a roll call of our warriors sound like? At the bottom of the blog you will see their names, jobs and the locations of their loved ones...take a close look...and consider this an opportunity to pray daily for these brave men and women...maybe take one each day and pray for them by name...maybe leave a comment on my blog encouraging their loved ones. A while back I blogged about how important it was for all of us to show up, get in the fight and contribute. This would be a great start and such an encouragement to our warriors and their loved ones....

I will put a persistent 2SCR Wall of Heroes up on my blog so our soldiers are never a glance away from our hearts. Interested in adding your 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment soldier and getting connected to the support group? Drop an email to mljtexas@yahoo.com -- Marti can help get you connected...

Also, if I need to update/correct the information, please leave me a comment...

2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment -- Wall of Heroes

• Alex V. -- Stryker Dismount -- Texas
• Brittney G. -- Combat Medic -- Tennessee
• Charlie D. -- Stryker Driver/Gunner -- Washington
• Chris S. -- Radio Telephone Operator -- Colorado
• David J. -- Reconnaissance Scout -- New York
• Josh B. -- Rifleman -- South Carolina
• Kris D. -- Mortar Guidance System -- Texas
• Luke B. -- Vehicle Commander -- New York
• Manny G. -- Rifleman --
• Matthew B. -- Rifleman -- Oklahoma
• Ryan H. -- Grenadier -- Louisiana
• Scott S. -- Rifleman -- New York
• Thomas M. -- Squad Designated Marksman -- Pennsylvania
• Unknown Soldiers of the 2SCR

I am so proud of each and every one of these warriors...I am humbled by their sacrifice...

How about you, are you in the fight?

A couple of short emails just arrived from Chris - I will blog about them a little later in the day....

v/r,
- Collabman

Downrange!

Early this morning my work phone came alive..the caller ID displayed an odd combination of numbers...my heart jumped - Chris!!! What a wonderful surprise! It was oh so nice to hear his voice and be able to share a few minutes with him - on a pretty good connection I might add (just a slight echo).

How did he sound? Upbeat, fairly rested and in good spirits. Chris indicated they made the hop in from Kuwait on a fixed-wing aircraft and after a short lay-over, made a hop to their final destination using a rotary-winged aircraft - all of which was done safely and without incident. Sometimes we fail to recognize and appreciate the men and women transporting our soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines around in theater...under hostile conditions. They rock!

I asked him about the early sites and sounds he had experienced...he painted a picture of outgoing artillery, small arms fire (SAF) in the surrounding areas and incoming mortars...all pretty routine he said. I asked him - can you sleep through it? Chris indicated he made that adjustment back in Germany so he was able to sleep with the sounds. Jeez, I've got a problem with a barking dog in my backyard...seems pretty minor compared to the picture Chris painted on the phone. He also indicated the accommodations would work and their access to outside connectivity - was very usable....not bad on both accounts he said. Pictures? He has taken some and will share when he has time.

The time on the phone went so fast. It slipped away like sand through my hand...but his voice was strong and reassuring - he indicated the morale of those around him was good...they were ready to get started with their mission.

Best of all, he closed with four special words that will carry me for a while and linger in my mind...I Love You Dad....

Chris, I love you too son...and we are praying every day for you and the warriors of 2SCR...stay strong buddy!

v/r,
- Collabman

Raw Video - 2SCR Departs Ramstein

Ever thought about what it looked liked as the 2SCR boarded the aircraft in Ramstein, Germany - headed for Iraq?...what the mood was?...what their faces said about what was on their minds? Maybe that's just me but this clip speaks more than words...and there are no words...just the faces...as they settled in for the long ride...

If you haven't seen this clip, take a moment and watch some raw video, courtesy of AFN Kaiserslautern. I searched for Chris but...no joy. Maybe your loved one was caught on tape? Thanks Marti for the graphic - it fit perfectly.

What struck me most were the young faces...so many...

What do you see?

v/r,
- Collabman

Be Safe - Come Home...

The drive to work this morning was pretty tough and it had nothing to do with the traffic or delays. It had everything to do with my raw emotions that came pouring out about half way in...emotions I haven't felt in years. Where is this coming from? Chris and the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment is headed downrange...into the fight - and I felt so helpless. Well, thank goodness for two things...one, my drive in is 30 minutes long so I had time to compose myself and two, I don't wear makeup ;-) Though I expect my eyes were a tad bit red from the tears and lack of sleep...this is hard...

Toward the end of my drive I kept thinking about how important it is to Chris and our warriors in the 2SCR that they hear from us in letters, videos, packages, whatever...so they know that they are foremost on our minds everyday, throughout the day...as we pray for their safety. I can't do much from here in the states...but I can blog...I can write...that I can do...

How about you? Instant messaging, blog, email, video or pen and paper...whatever it takes...it will mean so much...

I will leave you tonight with a 4-minute video below from Word Records recording artist Mark Schultz and his hit single Letters From War (from the album Stories & Songs). Nancy and I had the opportunity to hear Mark in concert at our home church and this song, though difficult to listen to at the time, was so powerful...and this morning it played in my mind over and over...all the way to work...

If you will, spend a few minutes watching and listening...won't you join me in writing to our warriors?

Chris I love you buddy....Be Safe - Come Home...

v/r,
- Collabman

Dedicated to all of the 2SCR and their loved ones...

Headed Downrange...

The call that we were waiting for came and we missed it...his voice-mail, with the stress in his voice, was crystal clear - Chris was headed downrange into Iraq.

I added a glossary for those not all that familiar with the military jargon and their love of acronyms. Please don't be afraid to ask if you see something that doesn't make sense.

Here we go...hang on and hold fast...it will take all of us sharing, praying and staying together to get through these next 15 months...we can do this - we don't have a choice...

"What I've learned in my life,
One thing greater than my strife
Is His grasp,
So hold fast"

v/r,
Collabman

IED Training and Birthday Wishes...

We received another email from Chris today and as always, it was great to gain insight into his day and get a sense for how he is doing. For many of you who have never met Chris in person, these emails will give you a look at who he is, what is important to him and a glimpse at his heart. As I read back over my blog, I am not sure as a 19 year old I would have been all that comfortable with so many seeing my letters home...to my mom...

As you read Chris' email from today, pull up a chair along side him as he sits in that hot tent in Kuwait and writes a letter home to mom. What do you see? Maybe it's just me but I could really sense that he misses Erin...his family...and this great country we take for granted. I expect he is not alone in those feelings - I can imagine that there are many in the 2SCR struggling with similar emotions...in fact, I guarantee it.

Chris' email is also a look at the life of a young warrior preparing for combat operations in Iraq...and preparing to deal with the deadly weapon of choice by insurgents in Iraq - an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). A 19 year old training to detect a device designed to maim and kill. Jeez, what was I doing when I was 19? - what were you doing?

All of this was mixed in with discussions about his 20th birthday which he will celebrate next month. Never did I think Chris would spend his 20th birthday in Baghdad...while conducting combat operations with the 2SCR - but he will...and all he asked for was a do-rag in an ACU pattern...

Chris, I love you buddy...we will get you that handkerchief...and so much more for your 20th...thanks for your sacrifice son...I only wish I could say I was as strong and disciplined at age 19 as you are...

In Chris' own words...

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 14:04:42

Hey, mom. So our power went out in our tent (again) and it's definitely not desirable to stay in there while the AC is off. We did an IED class today where we walk down a road and have to identify possible IED's placed strategically along the road. It was a good class and nice to know they have stuff like this set up for us.

People SHOULDN'T live in this heat. I keep asking why God couldn't have put the Garden of Eden somewhere in the states or something. People wouldn't even be here. Oh well. No one's been sick, yet. One of the team leaders in my platoon is a 4 time heat casualty so he takes a lot of precautions, but other than that we all make sure to drink our fair share of water.

Actually Bae and I are neck and neck when we play ping pong. He uses a hard paddle instead of the padded ones and he's got a great style of play. We usually end our games at like, 21-19 or it goes into over time, and it flip flops who wins. Other than that, I haven't met anyone to beat me yet. Bae and I go down there each day for a couple of hours when we get time off and the computers are all full. It's a good time waster.

What do I want for my birthday? To be home with you guys and Erin. There's not really much more I could ask for. I don't need anything material over here. The PX here has all of the supplies we need. A do-rag or handkerchief in ACU pattern would be nice.

I still need to go buy another phone card :/ I'll give you a call before we head up north. I love you and miss all of you!

Chris

Thoughts from our 19 year old warrior...are they difficult to read?

v/r,
Collabman

Service Star Flag is Up....

Nancy was provided our Service Star Flag a few weeks ago, courtesy of a friend at church. It is now prominently displayed in the front of our home from what used to be Chris' bedroom window. Yet another simple reminder for us of Chris' sacrifice along with the others in the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (2SCR)...and all our other warriors deployed around the globe serving our country.

What is a Service Star Flag? The history of this flag can be found here on the Blue Stars of America, Inc. or here at US Flag. Today, the Department of Defense specifies that family members authorized to display the flag include the wife, husband, mother, father, stepfather, parent through adoption, foster parents who stand or stood in loco parentis, children, stepchildren, children through adoption, brothers, sisters, half brothers and half sisters of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States. The flag should be displayed in a window of the residence of the people who are members of the immediate family.

Interested in having one? To order a Service Star Flag and honor your loved one serving with the 2SCR in Iraq you can visit the Service Flag website.

We are displaying a Service Star Flag in support of Chris...it will be visible from our window for the next 15 months, no questions asked...and I look forward to answering the questions of our guests when they ask the significance of this flag. Why the blue in the star?

The color of the star is symbolic in that the blue star represents hope and pride...

Hope and pride - what more needs to be said?

v/r,
- Collabman

On Edge...

Ever have a day where your schedule gets changed or doesn't work out the way you had it planned in your mind? That was how my day unfolded this afternoon...and it put me a little on edge. Well, more than a little. Why? I am normally pretty easy going and I typically roll with the punches. I asked myself on the drive home, was it really the change in schedule today or was it that gnawing feeling inside telling me that its probably time...time for Chris and the 2SCR to load up and move north? Count em: 554 km...344 miles...or 299 nm. Take your pick, anyway you count it the destination is the same - Baghdad, Iraq. Okay, I admit it...I am on edge. After reading Chris' email he sent today, it appears there are many in the 2SCR who are also a little on edge. Can you blame them?

They are trained, focused and ready for that first mission, that first contact, that first firefight. Chris' description paints a picture in my mind of a thoroughbred horse just prior to getting pushed into the starting gate...antsy, rearing up, snorting...and on edge - ready to ride. Give it a read and tell me what you see...

In Chris' own words...

Thur, 16 Aug 2007 09:54:34

Hey, ma

I finally got a good amount of time to write you. Since the entire regiment got here, there hasn't been much time to do much of anything since there's huge lines for both the phones and the computers. Today it's ridiculously hot so not many people are out. Unfortunately though, our power went out in our tent block, so we have no lights OR AC in our tent. I feel like I'm in the middle of a swamp when I'm in there. Without the water. Like I said, it hasn't cooled off in Kuwait, of course. Yes we're still here, I'll let you know when I get to Baghdad. I check dad's blog every day but I don't have an account or anything. I haven't heard from Spencer [US Marine friend in Iraq], either.

It hit 130 yesterday. We were at a range from 6 in the morning until noon. I'm pretty sure I drank about 6 gallons worth of water. I've never sweat so much in my life, let me tell you. What's worse is the wind blowing sand everywhere, making it stick to you wherever you're sweaty. Thank God they have constant showers here.

Everyone keeps tripping out on each other - I'm not sure if it's from the waiting or the heat or a mixture of both, but I know that we're all ready to head up north and start doing our job.

I haven't found anyone who can consistently beat me [at ping pong], but my buddy Bae found out I played ping pong and I'm going to play with him after I'm done here. He's pretty darned good. Once I get my camera back from Boyd, I'll get some pictures taken. I can't send any yet, but hopefully we'll have internet access when we get there so I can send them to you.

I'm dealing with stuff much better than other guys are. I just put on my iPod and play stuff that reminds me of home or of Erin and I cool down.

Of course I'm reading the book. I read it plenty of times before I left, too. I gave out all of the Angel Coins, too. The guys thought they were really neat.

I'm hangin' in, mom :] I love you! Talk to you soon. Chris

On edge - so, how would you be feeling if you were in their boots? Ever thought about it? I have...

v/r,
Collabman

Silence...

Well, I wish I had some news and pictures to share... but I don't. So before everyone begins to fire off the comfort app (i.e., email) asking what's up?, what's going on?, what have you heard?...let me summarize...nothing, nada, zippo...and yes, it's tough. We expected stretches like this but it is still not easy to work and sleep through the silence.

As the 2SCR continues to prepare to move North, we continue to lift them up in our prayers and thoughts. We remember...

I love you Chris and pray for you every day...we will get through the silence...

Your comment on Facebook today tells it all...

"Chris is still waiting."

v/r,
Collabman

Waiting and Wanting to Go...

Another email arrived from Chris today and as you will see it describes a man who is ready to get going. More on that in a little.

Why the pictures of the strykers with the slat armor? Many have asked - why so long to stage in Kuwait? First and foremost you don't move an entire Cav Regiment overnight...it is a huge logistical task that takes time...no two ways about it. The second reason is the process of staging in Kuwait - the 2SCR is no different than any other unit...it's all about preparing...and they have a number of different counter-measures to add to get ready to join the fight - slat armor, or as some call it "bird cages," is part of the prep. Why is this upgrade important to them...and us?....read on...

The slat armor solution forms a metal frame barrier 50 cm ahead of the armored personnel carrier (APC). The cage detonates anti-tank shaped charge warheads such as a rocket propelled grenade (RPG) away from the vehicle and prevents its hot chemical reaction from boring through and causing burns, shock and shrapnel wounds. The slat armor weighs about 5,200 pounds, about 3,00 pounds lighter than the add-on anti-RPG armor plates. The idea behind the cage armor goes back to World War II and Vietnam. Troops improvised with chicken wire and other means to counter the RPG threat. More can be read here on slat armor if interested.

Is Chris ready to go? I'll let you decide for yourself...let me close with a look at Chris' thoughts...in his own words...

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 06:57:00

Hi mom!
Things are okay here...it's the hottest day since we've been here. I tried calling you last night but for some reason it wouldn't go through :[ There are ping pong tables here and I haven't met anyone yet to beat me. We've watched a lot of movies on our down time.

We got our Strykers in and they have the bird cages on them now (the RPG stoppers), or Slat Armor. The chow hall here is really nice, way better than Germany.

I just want to get to Iraq and get started. It's so boring here. And hot. I love you! Tell everyone I said hi.

So the preparation continues as those in place await the arrival of the rest of the 2SCR...hang in there buddy, its all part of the process to keep you guys safe...we love you Chris and are praying every day for you and the entire Cav Regiment...you will never know the folks all around the world who are thinking and praying for you guys...

v/r,
Collabman

The Road to Iraq....

Okay, lets get right to it. I will be the first to admit it - today was pretty tough. I caught my emotions and thoughts lingering in the shadows just waiting to pounce on me - why? Chris is still in Kuwait getting ready. Why was it so tough to keep my mind from jumping on that road to Iraq...moving north into Baghdad and picturing what lies ahead? I could almost feel the sweat rolling down my face...the tension of wondering how good the intelligence will be for their first mission...wondering what they might be walking into...wondering if the insurgents will attempt to influence the September report from Gen. Petraeus and whether Lt. Gen. Thurman was right..."I’ll venture to say you’ll face a fight as soon as you hit the ground..."

Jeez...I was just sitting in my office. Wow, I hope I am not the only one experiencing these feelings...am I? For those I work with - thanks! Thanks Jen for taking the time to ask the simple question "M, how you doing?" Thanks Duey for stopping by for a minute and asking "How's your boy?" Those questions are a tremendous source of encouragement and tell me that I am not alone in this...even though today...for the first time, I felt a little alone. I am so thankful that God gives me strength through the tough days and the good days...they all count...

Thanks also to Marti for reaching out and beginning to build the support group for the 2SCR...and to Contessa for sharing the URL for the short video of the farewell ceremony where the colors were cased. If you have not seen the video, take a moment and visit the AFN Europe website here to watch it (use the IE browser to ensure it plays). I thought the video was well done and I found myself searching the ranks looking, hoping to see Chris - maybe your soldier is in the video...look closely if you will...and listen to the words at the end of the clip from Lt. Gen. Thurman.

Finally, at the end of the day I was encouraged by the video below that shows the camaraderie exhibited by the men and women of the 2SCR...The Road to Iraq...Together we Fight, Dominate and Win...

v/r,
- Collabman

A Picture is Worth...

Our first photo from Chris in Kuwait gives you a good look at where the 2SCR soldiers are hanging their hats. If you squint just right you can see...well, ok...maybe if you imagine real hard you can see...

The honest truth is what you see in the photo is a temporary home for the soldiers of the 2SCR and nothing more. Are they air conditioned? Yes, however...Chris indicated the huts didn't get below about 90 degrees inside but...when the daytime temperature in Kuwait City, as shown in today's graphic, reaches 118, any relief from the weather is appreciated.

After seeing this, I promise to never, ever complain about our summer heat in Colorado again...how about you? Are we really all that hot, sticky and uncomfortable as we move from our air conditioned home...to our air conditioned car...to our air conditioned office...and then back again? We take so much for granted...

By the way, I have had numerous questions about visiting this blog and virtually hanging out with us...consider this an invitation to show up, get in the fight and contribute. 15 months is a long time...it will take us all working together to support the 2SCR and finish this journey together...are you in? I pray that you are...

v/r,
- Collabman

The Heat is On...

Our first note from Chris arrived today and it was a welcomed email, but probably no more than any others we will receive in the coming weeks and months. I lingered on each sentence and re-read the email numerous times as I tried to reach through the words and somehow feel the searing heat and grit of Kuwait. It was a brief email, even rushed for Chris who can bring it when writing - but I expected as much. The 2SCR has much to do as they stage with their equipment and get acclimated to the harsh environment of the middle east. More on Chris' words a little later...

The photos reflect the type of activity ongoing at numerous deep water ports in Kuwait as equipment, including the 2SCR's, arrives to begin the long haul to the north. On the bottom is a photo depicting the challenging weather conditions for the Military Sealift Command ships and crews supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Here, the large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Brittin is barely visible in a sandstorm while preparing to off-load cargo at the port of Ash Shuaybah, Kuwait. The men and women who provide this important job receive limited attention from the media and others...but make no mistake - they are an important part of a combat deployment supporting our troops. I applaud their efforts and offer them a hearty well done!

Let me close with our first email from Chris as he and the 2SCR get adjusted and prepare to head north to support what will be a complex and difficult mission in Iraq...a job I am convinced that they are well prepared for...but one that will still challenge their mental and physical toughness like never before. If you have a moment and would like to see how they prepared for their deployment give the Stars and Stripes article a read here.

In Chris' own words...

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:52:52

Hey, Mom! This'll be really quick as I haven't got much time left, but I am in Kuwait and its RIDICULOUSLY hot. Like, bad. We'll be heading north in a few weeks, and it sounds like the Forward Operating Base we will be on will be REALLY nice. I love you mom and will try and give you a call soon. Chris

Ridiculously hot...that says it all right now for Chris and his Stryker unit and it will only get hotter in the coming days and weeks...and I am not referring to the weather...

We are all praying for you, Chris, and for the entire 2SCR team...be encouraged son.

Before you leave the virtual world tonight, please take a moment and read the comment Marti added to The Journey Begins... blog (10 July 2007). We have never met but we already have a bond and are pulling together to support these warriors throughout this journey - count on it!

v/r,
- Collabman

Time to Roll...

The email Nancy and I were expecting finally came this afternoon, quietly and without fanfare. Chris and the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment will deploy forward this coming Monday. We knew this would be hard...but I am not sure the word scared can even begin to describe how I feel tonight. So tomorrow if you see a look of concern on my face or in my eyes please don't be alarmed or worried...it goes with the territory...

So, let the journey begin...I appreciate all your thoughts, prayers and words of encouragement. You will never understand how much they mean to Nancy and I...we are holding on tight and trusting that God will watch over Chris and his team...and keep them safe...

As you remember Chris and his team in your prayers tonight, spend some time watching this video that has received over 14 million views on YouTube...all it will cost you is about 5 minutes...powerful images that struck deep at my heart....and please, don't look away when it gets hard to watch...will you?

Chris...I love you, I am proud of you and I miss you...I remember...every day buddy...every day...

v/r,
Collabman

Identification Friend or Foe...

As we wait for Chris and the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to deploy, LCPL Spencer Dierenfield (front row, right) who is in the fight, has been on my heart. Spencer is currently working in a location that has some huge challenges...as described in this article carried in the Los Angeles Times that you can read here. Ever worked in an environment like this? I bet not...

Spencer and his teammates are tasked with hunting insurgents and...watching their six every moment. Nothing or no one is taken for granted unless he/she has an American flag on the shoulder of their combat uniform. Probably a routine day for those who have felt the chaos called Iraq for an extended period of time...but an eye opening experience for a young warrior like Spencer who has been on the ground for all of 52 days. Put yourself in his boots for just a moment...working alongside various factions in this building that have a deep hatred and mistrust of one another...where its all about turf, power, control, political parties, allegiances ...and we thought our jobs were difficult...

Tonight I will spend time in prayer for Spencer and his team...as I do every night since he has deployed. However, seeing the pictures of Spencer along with his written refections has moved this struggle from my head to my heart in a flash...this is real...not an exercise or some mock war game...just as it will be for Chris and his Stryker team in the coming days and months - and I have to be honest...those are thoughts that rattle my mind and challenge my faith to its core...

As I listen to people discuss the war as they go about their lives in this great country I am struck by the lack of insight and awareness of what our warriors face every day on the ground in Iraq...maybe, just maybe I behaved the same way before Spencer and Chris got their orders...ouch...how about you?

Friend or foe...looks so easy in a movie...but in real life for these warriors it's a challenge with potentially deadly consequences...

v/r,
Collabman