Initial tour "over there" was for 14 months (Dec'02 thru Feb'04. He's a Sergeant First Class, career/full-timer but attached as the Training NCO to a Reserve Unit. But, rumors are the "down" window for his Unit will be "Up" soon. But, if that happens that's a good thing because to keep this generic...if all is going to plan...this Unit would be one of those that's there at the "Start" and again at the "Finish".
My Prayers are with the Iraqis...that their elections for Parliament go without any horrendous events. The terrorists have lost there. I was worried until last week when the Shiaa Mosque was targeted and they did not finally rise up in outrage against the Sunnis. If that wasn't provocation enough to start an all out pay-back reprisal for the last 40 years plus...I think they've some solid Leadership. Given Iran's trouble making (May Jimmy Carter repent of the sin of false pride in his heart over his handling of the Middle East)...I cannot understand the stupidity of Politicians here who'd "cheer" for failure in Iraq.
Thanks for the ping, damn, I'm going to miss it. I have to drive my daughter to work. Hopefully it will be repeated.