Hello All,
Eariler this week Jeff, my boss, told me that he didn't want to get shut out.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"This is my second war in the desert, and I have never been issued desert boots."
"You're kidding me."
Yep, many of us here have not yet been issued our desert uniforms. The reason behind this is complex, but let's just say that it lies somewhere between laziness and incompetence. I'm not going to get into it in this forum; this is another rant that I'm going to save for the book (if I tell you all the good stuff you'll never buy one!). Jeff was open to the idea of buying his own, and skipping the Army altogether. One of the best places to buy crap (see Gear) is from U.S. Cavalry, and they have a website you can order from. The problem is that Jeff isn't the most computer friendly person. Jeff actually said that the life was better before the internet and email and computers. Jeff sometimes has a hard time dealing with change (sometimes military life is like a family, you don't get to choose your brother is, you just have to support him). So, I volunteered to help him out.
We went to the website and found what we needed, prepared to order it, and Jeff dropped a little bomb on me. "I don't have a credit card here."
I was stopped in my tracks. Jeff is pretty well off in the civilian world. I wouldn't call him rich, but I would say that he has money. Still, he didn't bring a credit card to war. Well, when I phrase it like that, who would? I mean, I fully expected to be headed north to Baghdad in a long convoy, always alert for an ambush, sniper attack or some other enemy action. I never expected to spend the war in the middle of the Kuwaiti desert waiting for our equipment to arrive, and then when it did hear that our troops we cruising downtown Baghdad.
Jeff didn't have a credit card, but I did. I brought my debit card and my Visa because I have learned two things about traveling for Uncle Sam: Bring a lot of cash for emergencies and bring a credit card for when you run out of cash. Contingency planning is paramount in military operations, because Mr. Murphy loves us so much.
So I tried to use my credit card. I thought that I had planned for everything for this expedition. I really did. My rent, truck payments, insurance, all these things were covered. The one little detail (I guess it's not so little anymore) I missed was the expiration date on my cards. Yep, and the funny part (I always try to find humor) is when I announced to the room that my credit card was expired, 5 other soldiers looked at me and said, "shit," in unison. Then they reached for their wallets and a chorus of, "DAMNIT," was echoed through out the tent. I couldn't help giggling to myself as I shook my head and wondered how they used to fight wars.
Not to worry, dear friends, for Mom is a great and powerful woman with a power of attorney. She had the card renewed and the new number to me in record time (I honestly doubt that I could have gotten the card renewed faster, she has a way with people, some might call is coercion, others might call it charm, I call it Momness. Don't be standing on the tracks when the train is coming through) and we got the order on the way. Hopefully it gets here before we leave, but I won't be sad if it isn't.
That's all for now folks. There is something in the works this week, but I'm not sure if it's good news or great news… I am a bit hesitant to talk about it. I don't want to jinx anything, but I could swear that I saw a light at the end of this tunnel. Then again, the boys of the 3rd Infantry Division thought that they saw a light also, but they've been extended, again. For the fourth time. Poor bastards. Dad told me that I didn't want to join the infantry. He was right, God bless him. I think that I owe him another one.
I love you all,
Will
HEY BUD,
Another day in paradise, huh? I thought of you last week when I was at my in-laws house on Fripp Island, SC......lots of sun, lots of sand (hence the thought of you guys) and lots of what you don't have, WATER! I enjoyed drinking a couple of cold ones for you (see lots again!) and saying a prayer of thankfulness for all that you guys are doing, so I can enjoy a vacation here in the states relatively worry free.... Love ya Man! come home soon!
Penny
Hey Will,
Remember at the beginning of your entries you said that maybe one day this will become a book someday? Well, it is!
In a way....I am turning all your enteries into a scrap book. Its looking awesome so far! I have aged the pages and totally made the scrap book look like its been around...lol
If you want it when I am done Ill give it to you. Hope ya get this message!
Take care. Oh, Im the girl from Canada who has been living here in Atlanta for like 4 months...Im going back to Canada the end of the month to take care of a few things...but I have every intention of getting my ass back here to the US....its a beautiful country and its because of you guys we have it. Thanx!
- God Bless.
Posted by: Charlene on July 18, 2003 11:13 AMJust what would you do with out your Mom's
guys?? Yeap, we take care of our pride (see mom grabbing one my the scruff of their neck when need though.) Dad's are great also but nothing like a Mom. So hope that light at the end of the tunnel is coming your way soon!! And if those boots don't make it, when you do them them you can make them in to a desk lamp. (see conversation piece)
Take Care!!
i just wanted you to know that i really enjoy your little rants and i also think of you so far away. go home soon.
keep them coming.
Will - just hope that light at the end of the tunnel isn't a train (and of course I am now off on the whole Bugs Bunny and train tracks visual, you know which one I'm talking about don't ya).
Kudos to Will's mom for doing what mom's do best. I'm sure there were no threats and no usage of "Do you know where my son is and what he's going through?!"
Thanks once again for the laugh. I shall keep my fingers crossed that what's in the works is nothing but good news.
Awww shucks Will!
Don't want to tarnish your formidable soldier image cuz we know you're no softy but there is nothing more attractive than a fella that loves and respects his mom.
In fact your devotion to your folks, family and friends is an admirable trait through n through.
However, the clincher indeed is the honor you show your mother by dedicating your blog to her.
My nephew turns 11 next month and we are so proud that he is more than turning out to be every bit the young man we'd hoped he would be. It will be so nice to buy him your book one day to read.
Better stop gushing B4 my nose turns brown.
Now how come none of us ladies thought of that for the cure for troop morale? Online shopping, but of course! And shoe shopping to boot. Any shopaholic will tell ya there is no greater fix than a fabulous find. Well done Will.
Perhaps Home Shopping Network or QVC could headline a USO gig. I think we may have struck upon something here.
I mean if you can't have sex or drink any booze then you ought to be able to get contact consumerism high.
Finish your mission so you can go fishin',
Szaffie
Posted by: SzaffireBlue on July 18, 2003 03:56 PMHere's to that light growing brighter. I'm in Army Aviation thanks to the sage advice of my Dad some 16 years ago so I know what you mean.
Posted by: Sgt Hook on July 18, 2003 04:23 PMAhhhh, grasshopper...
Your mom-wisdom is indeed great. I hope one day my own son can speak of me as you do your mom, Will. I know by 'personal' experience that she is a sweet person, even though that contact was a one time response to me. The fact is, she responded. *Whooo Rahhh Will's mom*
Being a mom myself, I know her feelings of wanting to help her son however she can, be it physically, emotionally, or simply cheering you up or cheering you on. She's obviously done a fine job with you. You see the humor even in the crap, you write well, you have compassion and take responsibility, and challenge yourself. I know the pride she must feel as well, seeing you turn out as you are. *smiles*
My own son is 7 and just passed his first year anniversary of taking karate. Now, you might not think that would be that great an accomplishment, but until just last month, when he was actually diagnosed with ADHD and put on meds to assist in concentration,etc., he had a very rough time focusing on things for any length of time. Many days we both spent frustrated, him honestly trying, and me honestly stumped. It's a long story why he didn't get diagnosed until recently, mostly due to his grandmother telling the doctor everything was fine when it wasn't (See Lord forbid HER grandson dare be lacking some vital chemical *rolls eyes*) but that's not the point here. This past April was his first karate tournament, and he was not sure he could do it. I 'pushed' him to, knowing that his father (See my ex) is dying of lung cancer and will most likely not be around for the next tournament. I explained that for his father to see him compete would be remembered by him a long time from now, and would be special to his dad.
Well, he entered three events. Know what? He placed 4th in strongest kick and 3rd in strongest punch. But to see the pride in his face, and the weakened smile on his father's face when he placed 2nd in his last event - escape drills- was priceless. He was so nervous prior to that event, and I spent the half hour before it in the stands with him repeating over and over to him, "Wyatt...you can do this. Concentrate on the moves. You can do it. You know this stuff. You can do it. Remember that, honey....you know this stuff and you can do it." I told him I understood being nervous the first time competing in front of so many people, but that he could do it if he blocked it all out. Over and over I said it. Know what? He missed 1st place by only 1.25 seconds, but got that 2nd place trophy!!! Will, this was BEFORE he got started on meds to help with his ADHD that we weren't aware he had at that time. I know how much it took for him to focus on that event, and afterwards, in his adrenaline high, he said, "Mom, thank you. Know what? When it was my turn I was real nervous but kept hearing you say I could do it. And I did it mom!!"
The pride I felt in him trying his hardest when it really mattered threatened to burst from my heart. I can only imagine your mom's pride in her wonderful son. God Bless Her. If I can do as well as she has, raising my own son, then my role as mom will be beyond worth it. I pray everyday I can pull it off as she has.
Will's Mom: Kudos! *hugs ya*
Will: Well done, grasshopper! *hugs ya too*
(See hope neither of you mind a hug from me)
Blue said it well about respecting and loving your mom as being a most attractive trait.
Chris has an interesting idea with the desk lamp boot as well.
I'm sure you have a LONG list of people who wish to meet you on your USA travels once you get home, but seriously please consider visiting Tucson. You would, however, be required, by my son, to view his karate ribbons and trophies! LOL
Godspeed, Hugs, Prayers, & Thoughts,
Judi
Posted by: Judi on July 18, 2003 05:28 PMHi Will,
My son's over there with you, probably in the same tent. He's SPC Allen. Just a note from the mom's side. This "helping" and "doing" we do while you men are at war is keeping us sane. Us moms are used to being able to "do" something. We can't do anything but worry and love long distance. We miss you. We want you home. These chores we get to do at least makes us feel we're a little bit useful in your awesome and horrendous efforts there in war by giving some support where we can. We'd rather be there, kicking a** if anyone tried to hurt our sons and daughters, but we can't. Where would any of us be without our mothers? Not here. Yet, without our sons and daughters, the word "mother" would not be. Thank you for towing the line, protecting our lives, the lives of those of other countries, and for having a great website so we can all feel connected. Great job!
Keeping hanging in there. As always, I enjoy your stories.
I'm "hearing" in this rant that there are money problems. Granted, can't do much about an expired credit card when trying to buy boots in the states. If your soldiers are short cash, then take them to the finance office to receive a casual pay (read small advance payment taken out of your next paycheck). If you have many people without cash, call the finance office and they will send a team to your site to make the payments, cash checks, and take pay inquiries.
Posted by: johnson on July 18, 2003 06:42 PMJust found this blog and want to thank you for sharing your stories with us.
I also want to thank you and all the others like you who are enduring the hardships and frustrations to help keep us safe and free.
Thank-you seems so insignificant to people who place their lives on the line for all of us.
Don't doubt for a minute that the average American doesn't appreciate (to say the least) what everyone over there is doing for us.
There is no need for our soldiers to want for boots, etc. There are many blogs, with many people participating. If you let your needs be known, I believe they will be met by those of us who are sitting comfortably at home because of all your efforts.
So, please, post the needs and see what we can do. (A brand-new car may be *slightly* beyond reach!!!)
Thanks,
Christa
Expired Credit Cards. Sometimes credit cards will go through if you change the expiration date. i just change the month. Everytime I've used this trick the charges have gone through (see you forgot to activate the new card).
Posted by: Michelle on July 19, 2003 12:25 AMWhen the war first started, I wanted to do my part and help out those who are away from home. So I started searching and that's when I found your blog. I have to say that you are one hilarious guy (see ROTFPMP). Here's my point: I'm prior military (see lucky Air Force devils with air conditioned tents) and I always enjoyed getting a little something from home. So I went looking for some way to help and found an adopt-a-soldier web site (see non-matchmakers-r-us). I registered and was given two names - one Army and one Navy. My Navy guys is already home, but as with you, my Army guy is still there (see rear detachment). He's someone I've never met, but via snail mail I've found out that he's married, has kids, and is currently buying a farm in Oklahoma. And because of some simple packages from a stranger, he feels like he's really doing something that people back home care about. For me, I feel like a part of me is over there with him, supporting him, giving him the desire to survive and make the best of it until he comes home. Kinda like what some of the people who visit your blog get every day they see a new entry. So you may think that you're ranting, but to us, it's that little tug at our hearts we feel every time we read your day-to-day life stories and know that someone we've never met and care about is safe.
God bless each and every one of you every day that you are away from home!
Posted by: Lynne on July 19, 2003 12:37 AMWill
I'll say prayers for the news to be the good news that you're COMING HOME! After you get home, hope you'll keep us posted on the how the book is going and when it is published (notice I didn't say IF it is published). You and your peoples stay safe.
Posted by: LV on July 19, 2003 06:11 AMHi Will,
It never ceases to amaze me how incompetent the military can be at times regarding issuing of uniforms and that kind of thing. It doesn't really surprise me to hear that you guys don't have half of your uniforms that you need. The supply system at the reserve center I drill at has similar issues, in a smaller scale. I imagine you guys will probably get the uniforms and other assorted gear about a year after you return home. Regarding what you said about Jeff not having a credit card, one of the things they drill into us on drill weekends (really bad pun) is that if we get mobilized how important it is to have a credit card. Even if we let it gather dust in our wallets and just pull it out for those emergencies (Isn't Mr. Murphy a fun-loving guy?), it's a handy thing to have. People up at my reserve center who are mobilized have found this out real quick. But then again, if I thought I was gonna be in the middle of a war zone, I would probably wonder why I would need one too. Regarding the possible news that may be good, I hope and pray that you guys will be hearing a definite date when you all are coming home. You all are in many people's thoughts and prayers. I wish you guys all the best, and I can hardly wait to read your book (which, of course, will be a runaway bestseller, and make you filthy, stinking rich)! Hang in there and stay safe.
Will,
I don't know how far back you check posts. I just started reading your blog this week and made a long comment on one of the older posts. You know the ones where you were in the "iceburg."
Your writting is great and gives great insite to us Army Girlfriends. Kinda lets us know what our guys are going through. I know my boyfriend's mom is doing anything she can to help him with out any cost to him. I too do what I can afford.
My boyfriend is Army reserves who normaly trained at McCoy. It would have been nice if he could have done his retraining there before he left so we could have seen him a little more. However he was transfered to a OH unit and had to do his retraining at Knox before he went to the "Sandbox."
I read several blogs and located yours through one of the ones I read regularly. With all of the ones I read your blog is closest to what my boyfriend is going through. I could not help but crack up at the "I'm a humvee, I'm a humvee." I was at work and I could not stop laughing. My co workers thought something was wrong with me. He also got over to the "sandbox" around the same time that you did. So thank you for posting this. It has been wonderful to read.
If you can find my other post my offer stands strong. Tell J sorry about getting nailed in the ass and that his ex was a cowardess. A good woman stands by her man no matter what. I know it's hard but hey I am doing it anybody can do it. Keep up the good work and I can't wait to read the nexts posts.
Posted by: Natalie on July 21, 2003 02:30 AMHi Will,
light at the end of the tunnel, ha,ha,ha. I don't want to give you false hopes, but you should know how the army works. (it's probably more cars with their head lights on coming to get washed)
I'm just kidding Will. I hope to God that it's your time to go home. I know I speak for all of us(Well any person with a heart)when I tell you how proud we are of you guys for fighting over there. Will, could you please post an address so we can send you guys some things. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE. we can't do much else for you guys. and I know I'm not the only one who would like to send something to ANY soldier.
and I must say Will, I tell my daughters all the time-"you can always tell how a man will treat you by how he treats his mother".
God be with you all, Sherri Miller
Posted by: Sherri Miller on July 22, 2003 12:38 AMHey Will,
but happen all you?Beh,mistaking learn itself...we hope...!!!Nothing caps baseball,nothing boots,"we do an appeal:please supply with necessary equipment to the troops",especially those that have head between clouds,is true Will?You are right,we are smiling,we can't imagine your expression some moments,when you have discovered that your credit card is locked,but....hahaha fortunately you have a good mom.
We have known that some marines and reserves return to home and they are replaced with men of the italian contingent.We hope that have given you a good news and we think that you and your soldiers deserve return to home of the your family.Come on humor,you are always our thoughts.
CIAO two nice friends Adriana and Milena
Hello Will, I've been reading you for a while now, can't remember how I ran across your site, but am so glad I did. I really enjoy your writing and hearing about your experiences in this damn scenario that our government has you in. God bless you and yours and I hope that you are back with your Momness very very soon. I read a comment earlier on this string that someone is putting a scapbook together for you which will include all of these posts. I think that is absolutely wonderful and it must be so nice to know that you reach so many hearts just by ranting...lol.
My thoughts and prayers to you...Barbara in Tomball, Texas
Posted by: Barbara on July 22, 2003 11:44 AMToday, the sons of Saddam are gone and have been removered the planet. Thank you for saving generations to come from their terror. Great work everyone!
Posted by: Susan on July 22, 2003 06:01 PMWill,
I think reading your posts makes all of us appreciate the power of 'MOM' a little more.
I hope your news is good.
Take care!
Will, I would like your "take" on a reversal of the Dear John letter you wrote about a while back. My Marine has been in Iraq since Jan 11. He and I have been together 18 months and have known each other 6 years. ...he has begged me to marry him, chosen house plans, looking for land, already naming kids, sworn he loves me with all his heart and soul,etc. I have been 100%faithful, supportive, loving, etc. Written every day, packages, emails, etc. Three weeks ago, outta the blue, he calls ranting and raving that when he comes home all he wants to do is party and doesn't want to be bothered with a girlfriend! Very brutal verbally. I was in shock. Next day, he calls apologizing for the brutality, but same comments made. What's up?????? No other word from him where as before, daily communication or letter. What are your thoughts?
Posted by: Lou on July 24, 2003 04:14 PMLet him go, if he comes back then decide if you want to keep him.
Right now he is stuck in a place where his choices are limited.
That in no way justifies his actions where you are concerned however it may explain his immediate need to exercise control over some area of his life at this time.
Good Luck. Most of us are hoping to see LOVE prevail over this war.
Posted by: SzaffireBlue on July 25, 2003 01:55 AMFind your www.ALL-FIORICET.COM here, 100% discrete!
Posted by: fioricet on June 14, 2004 05:03 PMJoin the Linux community.
Posted by: Eleanor on July 6, 2004 02:10 PM
Will is a pretty good writer and this is the collection of his writings. It'll be interesting to hear updates from a soldier's point of view, so I'll be posting them for all to read.
Take care Will