sgtdub

04 July 2006, Happy 4th, America!!! July 4th is different here, it's a place where we don't won't to hear explosions under the stars. I do wish I was home, because I love to pop fireworks. But this day does have significance that I share with my Afghan friends that we (Americans), them, and many many other countries do have something in common. We each celebrate our independence from Great Britain. This is a link that they can understand and it helps to minimize the differences. Heck, even the Brits over here wish us a happy 4th. (they are probably glad they finally got rid of us). Camp Phoenix here, almost represents what America was over two hundred years ago. Here, in one camp, we have Americans, Afghans, French, Rumanians, Russian, German, British, Canadians and more, all living, working, striving towards helping the country of Afghanistan. It's a long haul, don't let anyone tell you different. But, it's a mission, a calling that many men and women have answered and it's a testament that we can work, live, co-exist with each other. Today is a day of celebration for all of us, so I won't get on my soap, today. I feel the media really should spend more time covering what's right, good, encouraging here in Afghanistan and in Iraq.
On another note, SFC M, SFC J, MSG T and myself re-enlisted today and LTC Y did the honors of giving us our oath. Immediately afterwards we stood in formation with those from Oregon National Guard as they took their oaths. We couldn't think of a better day to honor those who have come before us and given of themselves to give us our freedom and to show our support for the freedom of Afghanistan. I will post pictures tomorrow. I hope all of you have a safe and happy day.