Boston.com

Despite the liberal tilt, this article offers a somewhat fair assessment of the situation over here right now. Maliki is turining into a hardliner and really starting to garner the respect of the people. The establishment of a "conditions-based" timetable is neccesary but should never be made public. Click on the title to read.

Gear

This is what I wear everyday. In total, my gear weighs around 60 lbs --which is not too bad considering. I carry two radios, several optics, ammo, aid pouch, smoke, a KA-BAR, and some other stuff I can't mention. You get used to the weight, but it is hard to get used to the heat. Everytime I take my gear off it is soaked on the inside....and it has begun to smell pretty wretch. I'll get around to cleaning it here at some point.

air

This is a good compilation of air weapons in action. Almost everytime we get to use these guys, I wish I had become an apache pilot. Next time I'll try to get a video from my truck.

Coke!

I tried to send these home but got denied because of the whole ban on liquids. I'm going to try again at some point because these are great souvenirs. I have tried several Iraqi sodas and they are all pretty wretched. There is one that tastes like ketchup...Pretty disgusting.

Wow...I know it has been awhile since I have posted anything and I apologize. I have realized (and I'm sure you have too)that it is impossible for me to update this blog as much as I would like.

Anyway, I'm pretty busy over here. This is a picture of me with my new interpreter talking to some Iraqi Security Forces during a patrol. We try to coach them as much as possible when we are operating together. These guys are starting to execute pretty well. They have come a long way even in the four months we have been here. They'll be able to take this country over soon.