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I can not think of a more kind and generous offer!Your words spoke volumes about the relationship between countries.I hardly ever talk about them,but when people started to speak out against your country,I had no choice to speak out.A lot of soldiers did not like the deployment there,but I enjoyed it very much.I have been to many places,And can honestly say,it is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been.I took the time to learn to speak the language which payed off.Not a day goes by that I don't think of your country.I keep telling my wife that someday we will go there to visit.You cant explain the food,the culture,the Castles.You have to be there.I don't think I will be there again in my lifetime,unfortunately.But I still have my scrapbooks and memories.Again,if there is any thing I can do for you,please feel free to contact me.I would be deeply indebted to you.P.S.,I have never met anyone there who had a Gold during my entire time in country.A couple silver,but I have never even seen one in person.

Hi,

I´m not sure if the leadership has changed the rules, but nowadays you see almost nobody of the ranks Sgt and higher without a gold Leistungsabzeichen. I had to do a 30 km march with 10 kg ballast, within 300 minutes. Then we had to achieve the German Sports Badge, a CPR /First Aid training within the last 3 years, and fulfilling the requirements for the Schützenschnur in gold not in two but just in one weapon. I made it with a pistol. When you had a good conduct record, there was no obstacle to get the badge.

By the way, I´m going to send you the two items within the next days. Can you tell me the address where I shall send it to?

Oh, and don´t bother, the best you can do in return is promoting the positive feelings you have about my country, that´s all I wish for.

Sincerely,

Michael