The Ministry of Interior and Other Driving Adventures

On Monday, December 18, 2006 (need the date for posterity) I was at the Ministry of Interior meeting with LTG Yarmand of the Afghan National Police (ANP). I believe he is the highest ranking police officer in the country. That in itself was one of those “I never thought I’d be having this experience” experiences.

The reason I was there is as follows: In August the ANA (Afghan National Army) got into an argument with the ANP. The ANA went back to their base and their commander told them to go back and take into custody the ANP they were arguing with. The ANA claim that the ANP was prohibiting them from performing their mission. Well when the ANA went back, as you can imagine, a huge argument took place. Some brilliant person pulled their weapon so more weapons were drawn and shots were fired. After the smoke cleared one of the ANP had been shot and killed. Of course the ANP were not happy about that and took 6 ANA soldiers into custody. I heard about this in my first week here in my first meeting with MG Mangal. Ever since then I’ve been working with the ANA to try and get them released.

About 3 weeks ago I was told that they had in fact been released and was pleased that the ANA were able to work out this issue. I had tried contacting US mentors to see if they could do anything but the guy I kept contacting never returned my e-mails. I’ve since learned that his military supervisor considers this guy to be one of the laziest, most worthless mentors around. Just my luck to have tried to get a hold of him.

Anyway I digress. Well two weeks ago Karim told me that the soldiers had in fact not been turned over the ANA as I’d been told. So I was back to square one in trying to help the ANA get the soldiers released.

When I was at Eggers for the conference one night there was a dinner for all the JAGs at Eggers. I met with the senior mentor to the ANP, CAPT Clancy, a Navy JAG. I told him about my problem and he said that he could arrange a meeting for me and Karim on Monday (Monday last) and we could take the problem right to the top of the food chain. Aren’t contacts great?

Well the meeting was set, me, CAPT Clancy, the JAGs from CTSC-A were there, CDR Rowe and LT Womble and Karim. CAPT Clancy introduced me to LTG Yarmand and asked me to explain why we were there. Since Karim had the full details I had him explain. You can imagine my surprise when he said that the soldiers had in fact been returned to the ANA several weeks earlier and that the only issue remaining was that the ANP had not returned the ANA weapons. I was quite surprised. Had I known that I don’t think I would have pushed to have the meeting.

LTG Yarmand listened to Karim and then proceeded to outline the concerns that the ANP had with this case. They felt that the commander who ordered the soldiers to go out and take custody of the ANP soldier was to blame for this whole incident and they wanted him investigated. He also expressed some concern over the state of the ANA military justice system. He acknowledged that they had a new system but made it known that he had concerns.

For 40 minutes or so we discussed the new ANA military justice system and promised that a fair investigation would take place and that after the investigation a fair court martial of the soldiers would happen. He finally seemed to agree with that. He then called his assistant and gave the order to have the weapons released back to the ANA so the meeting was a success after all.

Actually I hope that we were able to instill some confidence in LTG Yarmand. One of the next biggest hurdles we have to overcome is the distrust between the ANA and the ANP. We just learned that there is going to be a new task force set up here in country where mentors will be working with the ANP in all the Corps. This will be a first. I hope that it will be successful as there really needs to be a spirit of cooperation between the two agencies.

Being at the MOI compound was an interesting experience. Wherever I’ve been and interacted with the locals, it’s always been in a controlled environment. They’ve either been on a military base where they were searched before being allowed in or there’s been security watching out for us, like when we go on humanitarian visits. Well at the MOI there was none of that. It’s a public place and the public was there. People were lined up at various buildings, mingling, talking, looking at us. It was an interesting experience. I don’t see a lot of Afghan women but was able to observe them as we walked to our building. It’s not that they’re different from any other women, I just have virtually no interaction with Afghan women. It was also was a little disconcerting because there was no protection. Still though, I enjoyed “mingling” with the local population.

As we were walking out of the building, it was suggested that we drive up TV Hill and conduct tactical operations. CDR Rowe went to his vehicle, unlocked it and noticed that something had been left on and that the engine was dead. We had to push his vehicle to get it started. We made such a lovely scene, a bunch of military officers pushing a Toyota Land Cruiser through the parking lot in order to get it jump started.

But the excitement was only beginning.

As I backed out of my parking place and started to pull forward, we heard a loud bang and felt our vehicle rock up on its side. For the briefest moment I thought someone had thrown a bomb under a car but then realized we would be in smaller, bloodier pieces if that were the case. I then thought I had driven over a cement barrier but knew that wasn’t the case either as I was in the middle of the parking lot. That left me to wonder what I had driven over.

CAPT Clancy opened his door and said “don’t move, you’re over an open manhole.” I thought, “How could that be? I didn’t see an open manhole cover and I certainly didn’t step in an open manhole when we were pushing CDR Rowe’s vehicle.” Yes, that’s what I really said to myself!

As I got out and walked around the vehicle I saw that it wasn’t really a manhole cover but a square piece of sheet metal, about 3 feet square that had broken loose from the hinges holding it in place and had wedged itself up under the running board of the vehicle. I was afraid that the door wouldn’t close but LT Womble being the resourceful LT that she is, went over and stomped on the running board to get it out of the way of the door.

Since the metal did not extend past the edges of the hole (I have no idea how it stayed in place. When it was attached to the hinges it must have just barely extended over the edge of the hole.) we had to place it diagonally across the hole.

After I got across successfully, we went and told one of the guards. In typical Afghan style, he didn’t care.

Just as we were about to leave another car came rushing into the parking lot. We yelled out to be careful, as did the guard but the guy didn’t listen. He backed over the cover pretty fast and the cover popped up and he just about dumped his front tire in the hole. Now that would have been interesting.

I’ve already told you about our ascent up TV hill so as you can see my driving excitement was only beginning in the parking lot. But it was not to end with TV Hill.

After we got down the mountain, we had to get back to Eggers. By now it was late in the afternoon and we hit rush hour traffic. The terp took us through downtown Kabul. That was really cool. Not too many ETT’s get into downtown so I was really excited. I saw the brand new, huge mosque that is being built. It’s not being built by the government but by a private person. Someone has been very generous. It’s going to be absolutely beautiful. I saw historic buildings that the British built during their occupation of the country. I saw lots of markets and I saw a very modern department store. The ground floor was occupied by a large, modern jewelry store. It looked just like something you’d see at home. On the other floors were clothing and other retail stores. I was duly impressed and must admit, a little surprised to see something so modern amidst so much poverty.

The other thing I saw a lot of were cars. Our route took us past one of the largest outdoor bus stops. That meant traffic jam. We literally sat in traffic for an hour without moving. Realize that we were in vehicles that are not very tolerant of suicide bombers. I was completely blocked in; cars to my right and a raised median to my left that I would not have been able to get over even if I’d wanted.

The bus stop also meant lots of people in the street. Lots of people walking right past the vehicle I was sitting in. That hour spent just sitting there in downtown Kabul amidst all that traffic and people was the most scared I have ever been since I’ve been here. Had I been in one of our humvees I wouldn’t have given it a second thought but I wasn’t so I was on pins and needles the entire time.

I’m sure some of you are saying, “Why are you telling us this – your poor wife?” Well it’s what happened that afternoon. It was one of those experiences that I’m glad I went through – the drive through downtown Kabul, not the stuck in traffic part and because I’m prone to relating just about everything I do on this page, it’s here for you to read.

Would I do it again? Certainly not during rush hour! OK, I’m not sure I would do it again. I’ve been through downtown once and don’t need to do it again. So honey, don’t worry, I won’t be getting stuck in traffic any time soon.

1LT Delius (This posting is for his mother and wife.)

Here's the new JAG at the KMTC, 1LT Delius. He's from Georgia, but don't hold that against him. He's a great guy and has jumped right in and assumed his new responsibilities without any problems, or at least not too many problems.

I understand that his mother is now a reader of my blog page so let me just say that you have raised a fine, upstanding son.

All kidding aside, he is going to be a great asset to the JAG mission here in Afghanistan.

As Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night

One day as we were driving over the backroads to the KMTC, a flock of sheep was crossing the road. It made me think of the days when Jesus was born. It made me think of the shepherds that were in the fields by night, keeping watch over their sheep. It made me think of the angel of the Lord appearing to them, announcing the birth of the Savior. It made me feel grateful to be here and to have seen that flock of sheep crossing the road. It made me remember what Christmas is really all about. It’s about the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

I thought of Mary and Joseph making their way across a land that probably looks very much like it does here. I thought of how uncomfortable it must have been for Mary walking or riding such a long distance. I thought of them trying to find lodging in mud brick inns that probably looked very much like the mud brick buildings I see here everyday and how austere they probably were. I thought of so many things but I wondered what kind of gift I would have brought to that stable to honor the birth of the Savior.

I then thought of something that one of our brethren said at Sacrament Meeting one night. He said that the only real gift we can give our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is the gift of our will. Meaning, that when we turn ourselves over to Them, when we follow the commandments and do everything in our power to honor Them, that is the one gift we can truly give Them. Sometimes it’s hard to keep the commandments, to do what’s right, but in doing those things, it causes us to focus on our Heavenly Father and all that he asks us to do. Believe me, I know it can be hard. Sometimes I struggle every day to do what’s right, but when I do, I feel so much joy, happiness and gratitude to my Heavenly Father for the blessings He’s given me that it makes keeping the commandments just a little easier. I hope this makes sense.

And so at this Christmas season, I’m grateful for that flock of sheep. I’m grateful that it reminded me what that first Christmas must have been like. I’m glad that I’ve been able to think more about the Savior and what it was like for him living in this kind of environment. I’m glad that I haven’t been distracted by the commercial aspect of Christmas. I only hope that the thoughts and feelings I’ve had this Christmas will stay with me over the coming years.

And I hope that you too have caught and will keep the true meaning of Christmas all year long.

The Dungeon - Part II

I don't get blogger. I tried to download this picture into the actual entry for "The Dungeon" but it wouldn't.

Oh well, there's the room.

TV Hill

Here in Afghanistan, the poor people live on the hillsides. Just the opposite from home. Kabul is surrounded by hills. One of them is called TV Hill because the TV antenna’s are located at the top. Makes sense.

After our meeting at the Ministry of the Interior (yes, I’ll write about it eventually) the other JAGs I was with wanted to execute a tactical mission to the summit (sounds more impressive – “summit”) of the hill to get the lay of the land for future operations. I was in the lead vehicle. I had a Navy Captain in the front seat and the interpreter, who knew the way, in the backseat. Once again I found myself driving tactically through Kabul. You already know what it’s like from a previous posting.

We missed our first turn off the main road so had to go up to the next street to turn. I thought it would be fairly simple to go around the “block” and get back to where we needed to be. Foolish me. We ended up winding through some very narrow streets, driving through a large puddle of sh…, I mean sewage, wound our way through tiny businesses, etc. just to get back to where we needed to be. That was an adventure in itself. But that’s not the real story.

We finally found the road up the hill. For some reason I thought it might be an improved road since it lead to the TV antennas. The other hill next to it had the radio, microwave and cell phone antennas. So like I said I thought the road would be improved. I must have forgotten that I was in Afghanistan.

Dirt road, lots of rocks and lots of people standing around. Have I mentioned that Afghans do NOT move out of the way of moving vehicles? Well they don’t. I almost hit one guy with my mirror. I came within inches of smashing him in the chest and he just stood there looking at me like I was the idiot.

As we worked our way up the hill, we wound between these mud-brick homes. The homes were built right next to the road. In some places, you walk outside your door and you’re in the street. Down the middle of the road was a running stream of something black. I’m assuming it’s what I thought it was since there is no running water or sanitation system on the hillside. Lovely thought.

As we got higher up the mountain, the road narrowed. And it became covered in ice. And there was nothing on the edge of the road to keep you from rolling off the edge of the road, except the roof of someone’s house. As the ruts were covered in ice, I tried to not drive in the ruts, but sort of create my own path. I was hoping that the ice would not be so thick there and that there would be more dirt and rocks. Sometimes I was right, sometimes I was wrong.

One time I was really wrong. As I slid off the edge of the road into a rut the vehicle bounced. And bounced. For a fleeting moment I thought we were going to bounce right over the edge onto someone’s house. If I had taken my eyes of the road to look at my knuckles, I’m sure they would have been white as I was holding onto the steering wheel so tight.

The only other time that I was really nervous was when these kids came out of nowhere and gathered around the truck wanting us to give them something. One little girl planted herself right in the middle of the road, almost as if to force us to stop. The only direction for me to go was around her, right over the edge of the road and down the side of the hill. As I crept closer, she was not moving. I finally had to honk my horn at her to make her move. There was no way I could go around her and there was no way I could stop as it was pretty icy there. Fortunately, she moved and I breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Of course at the time, the road seemed to be straight up, straight up a sheet of ice. But it wasn’t. We eventually made it to the top and I’m so glad we did. The view was amazing. Even through the pollution in the air, you could see forever. Kabul was spread out below us. The city actually wrapped around the hill so when you looked over the other side of the mountain/hill, the city continued. It was an amazing sight.

Later, when I told COL Karim where we went, he said during the war with the Soviets, he watched battles on the hill, saw artillery tubes scattered across the ridge line and actually saw tanks roll down the hill. I’m sure it was an amazing sight. I’m just glad we didn’t experience the “rolling” part.

I thought the drive down would be just as nerve wracking as the drive up, but it was actually a piece of cake. I put the vehicle in 4-wheel drive (why I didn’t put it in 4-wheel drive on the way up still escapes me) and the lowest gear and crept down the hill. It was a piece of cake.

When I got back to Blackhorse the next day, everyone was jealous that I got to drive up and experience the view, especially Wais.

The Dungeon

(NOTE: As usual, photo's aren't loading very well. I'll try and download the last one later. So check back.)

While at Eggers last week (and yesterday – more to follow on that visit) I lived in the “dungeon” with my buddy Paul Waldron.

Let me explain. At Eggers, there is not enough housing for all the personnel that work on that base. Eggers is where the “important” people work. Camp Eggers is basically several city blocks in Kabul that have been rented to form the headquarters. What that means is that all the houses and other buildings have been turned into work spaces and limited living accommodations. They’ve brought in other buildings, obviously, but the compound is essentially former homes and businesses.

Trying to find some of the offices is quite an adventure. You have to wind your way literally through alleys, crossing through gardens, up and down stairs, just to find your destination. I had been to the JAG office once, with a guide. I later tried to find it but couldn’t so had to have them draw me a map for this visit. Without the map I would have been lost.

(Yes, I’m working my way to the dungeon.)

As I said, not everyone that works there lives there. I’m sure a large percentage of the folks live off base in the “safe houses.” (Can’t tell you where they are or else they wouldn’t be “safe.”) What I can say is that like Eggers, blocks of the city were rented and the houses used for living accommodations of the Eggers personnel.

To get “home” you have to don your IBA, walk forever to where the shuttle picks you up and then ride the secret number of minutes to get “home.” I use that term, “home,” loosely.

The house I lived in was called the Pink House. Here it is. Actually, it’s the front gate with me and the guard out front.

The next one is me in front of the sign. See, it does say “Pink House.”

And here I am in the dungeon. Paul didn’t take very good pictures of me. Oh well. He’s just a Major so what do you expect.

We lived in the basement. It was dark and cold. And the walls were made of stone set in cement. I hope you can get a feel for what it was like. At night the walls sent out waves of cold. I imagine in the summer it’s pretty nice but in the winter, it was pretty chilly.

Where’s the bathroom you ask? It’s up the “outside” stairs, around the corner and in through the front door. (Be careful of the ice on the first step.) It makes you think twice about getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. The bathrooms are leftover from the originally home. There’s three of them which was nice. One was huge. But it was also freezing. The only heat was from a small radiator which means it didn’t heat the room at all. I was looking forward to the hot water to offset the cold in the bathroom. Silly me! The water barely came out so it was actually colder to take a shower as the water only made the room seem colder. (Excuse this next thought, but anybody see the Seinfeld episode where George yells out, “I was in the pool! I was in the pool!” I’ll leave it at that.)

The next bathroom was a little smaller so wasn’t quite as cold when you first walked in. However, there was even less water that dribbled out of the shower head. I was afraid I wouldn’t get all the soap out of my hair. And of course, it was even colder to take a hot shower than the first bathroom.

The final bathroom was the coveted one. I discovered why it was always occupied when I went to shower. It was relatively warm, it had it’s own water heater and actually had water pressure. Unfortunately I got in that bathroom on the last morning so had to suffer through the others. Oh well.

This is how some people live for their whole tours. I can’t imagine living in the “dungeon” for very long. I think if I had to do it, I would cover the walls with something just so I don’t have to look at the stone. If I didn’t, I think I’d go crazy.

It makes me so grateful for my “opium den.” (Browse through previous posts for a description of my room.) To get to the bathroom, it’s a minor stroll down the hall, the hall that’s actually inside, to a brightly lit, warm, tons of hot water, bathroom.

I’ve decided that I live in the best accommodations in all of Afghanistan, at least for a soldier.

Tactical Driving Through Kabul and Surrounding Areas

While at the conference this week, I had the opportunity to drive one of the vehicles belonging to the CSTC-A lawyers. Don’t worry about the acronym, just know they’re a different group of lawyers I work with and who assisted in the conference.

I’ve driven our humvees quite a bit but driving their vehicles was a new experience. They’re lighter than ours and handle better. However, they don’t take the potholes, rocks and awful roads as well as the humvee's.

I was the second vehicle since I didn’t know how to get to several of the destinations where we were going. The lead driver was bound and determined to “lose me.” He kept cutting in and out of traffic. My hand never left the stick-shift as I was constantly speeding up or slamming on my brakes as we worked our way through traffic. There were some close calls where I almost “lost” the side mirrors on my vehicle as I had to get pretty close to the vehicles around me. There’s nothing quite like cutting off an over-loaded jingle truck or forcing a taxi full of people off the road just so you can stay caught up with the lead vehicle. There were even a few times when I was driving into on-coming traffic for a couple of reasons; (1) the road was in better condition in the other lane, (2) I had to avoid being hit by vehicles merging into my lane, (3) had to pass slower moving vehicles in my own lane.

Besides all the mechanical obstructions in the road there are the flesh and blood obstacles. Little kids were everywhere. When we got stuck in traffic one little girl came up to the lead vehicle, in the middle of a huge traffic jam, asking for candy. Then there are the kids and people who will just walk out into traffic without really looking. It’s a little unnerving driving when there are so many people on the side of the road who have no concern for their own safety.

I knew I was driving well when the front seat passenger reached up and grabbed the handle to brace for possible impact and the backseat passenger said “Oh Daddy.”

My Orem police officers will have a hey-day with me when I get back if I don’t lose some of these bad driving habits.

Oh, but it's so much fun!!!


Here's a picture of a jingle truck my friend Paul sent me. BestBuy finally replaced my camera, after a long drawn-out struggle - thanks to my wonderful wife for taking care of that. Now I'll be able to include pictures that I've actually taken.

E-mail correction

The editor of the Church News, Christmas Edition, didn't do a very good job of editing. If you received an "advance" copy of the letter, the editor's e-mail address is wrong, or at least a part of it.

So here's what you need to do to actually get an e-mail through to him. Substitute the "us" for "swa". I don't want to give out the entire e-mail address for security reasons so only those fortunate ones who got the letter will understand.

Thanks to those who have sent me e-mails in response to the letter, especially the ones who had the wrong address and had to go through my wonderful wife to get the e-mail to me. I appreciate the effort you had to go through.

An International Coalition

When I first arrived at Blackhorse, one of my roommates was LTC Frederick Schultze. He was the commander of the German unit here working with the only armored Kandak (Batallion) in Afghanistan. (“Armored” means that they drive tanks.) Today was his change of command ceremony. Their tours are only 4-5 months. Must be nice.

My other international friend is COL Fourmond, the commander of the French forces. He was present the day we placed Akhtar in pre-trial confinement. Ever since then he makes sure that I’m armed when I leave Blackhorse. He also asks me about the cases I’m working on. He even came to the first day of Akhtar’s trial. Since Braxton is taking French I’ve tried to have him teach me a few words but my brain just doesn’t function that way. He tried to teach me the correct way to pronounce “croissant” but I couldn’t get it right. I told him I’d rather eat them than pronounce the word correctly.

I’ve also worked with guys from Canada, England, Italians, and Romania. I know there are other nations out there but I haven’t had the privilege of working with them yet.

The other day a group of us went to eat lunch at the “Warehouse.” It’s mostly made up of international coalition partners. When we signed in at the chow hall, you had to sign according to your country. I was amazed at the number of countries that were represented on that post. Here they are (not in any order): Portugal, Bulgaria, Italy, Hungary, Greece, Macedonia, Croatia, Romania, Turkey, France, Germany and the good ole US of A.

The food was excellent. Great breads, several different kinds of meat; pork chops, roast beef, some meat I didn’t recognize, several different sauces (the one I got looked like a mushroom sauce but was very spicy and delicious), roasted vegetables, fried vegetables, exotic salads on individual plates, patte (it tasted like liverworst but I’m sure was something more cultured and refined), a plate of several different cheeses (OK, we actually got there too late for the cheese, but I’m told that the cheese is wonderful), a quiche bar (we were too late for that as well), tons of fruit, salad and lots of desserts. I’m sure I’m leaving more delectable’s out but suffice it to say, it was wonderful. It made our chow hall selection seem like school lunch.

Oh wait, our chow hall usually is the equivalent of school lunch. What am I saying? Braxton eats pepperoni pizza every day and we never get that. Oh well, it’s like the school lunch I got when I was in grade school. No comments on just how long ago that really was!!!

The Governor's Palace

I’ve talked a little about the Governor’s Palace or the King’s Winter Palace as it was originally, but let me give you a little more detail.

The grounds were incredibly beautiful. The grass was amazing. I wanted to go over and just lay down and enjoy the smell. But…I’m a very distinguished and important Lieutenant Colonel and JAG officer to boot so couldn’t indulge my whims. Plus the grass was still wet with dew so I’d get my backside all wet. Now that wouldn’t be very distinguished, would it? Instead I went and sat on a bench in the shade and just took in the beauty.

Flowering trees, fruit trees, Evergreens, shade trees, date palms, shrubs, flowers, you name it, it was there. I haven’t seen beauty in such a long time that I just wandered around taking it all in.

There was a large reflecting pool with a fountain in the middle. If it were just a little bit deeper it would have been a great pool to swim in. But the real fun would have been in jumping off the over-looking balcony. I could imagine little princes and princesses doing that very thing. Maybe that’s why it was not built any deeper.

(That's me on the far side of the pool.)

The palace itself was large and impressive. We met the governor in a large receiving room that was littered about with sofas, love seats, arm chairs and coffee tables everywhere. When he came in I was surprised at how young he was. This is terrible, but I was also surprised that he was missing his upper front teeth. I guess I figured the Governor would be older and would be able to afford good dental work.

While we were visiting with him one of his sons came into the room. He was quite the little gentlemen. He went to each soldier, held out his hand and gave us a firm handshake with his small hand. He went over and got a kiss from his Dad. He stayed for a few minutes then left the room. He returned a few minutes later with his younger brother. His brother wasn’t quite so brave and had to be coaxed to shake everyone’s hand. They were incredibly polite, handsome young men. You could tell their Dad was very proud of them.

We got a tour of the main floor of the palace. The receiving room was incredible. I don’t think the pictures will do it justice. The hand-painted mosaics on the wall were so intricate and beautiful. The chandeliers were imposing. Again, sofas, love seats and arm chairs were scattered throughout the room. As we sat there, I wondered what kind of meetings had taken place in this room. Were assassinations planned? Were rebellions quashed? Were treaties negotiated and signed? Was peace achieved? Were wives seduced? (Sorry, that one just slipped in.) Knowing who had lived in this palace and the power that was wielded, only the imagination could limit the things that have probably taken place in that room.

Through the door was the dining room. I’d have to count the number of place sittings in the picture again, but it was more than I can fit around my dinner table. That’s me at the end of the table. Can’t tell it’s me can you. “Pass the salt please” takes on new meaning. (Again, that's me on the far side. I think I counted 12 or 13 chairs down one side.)


Before we left we were presented with the material to make our man-jammies. You can read about that in the “Gifts” entry.

In the hallway was a portrait of one of the kings that had been assassinated by one of his sons. Wais was telling me about it before we saw the portrait so of course had to have our picture taken in front of it.

We went into the cellar that I believe was once a coal cellar then used to store weapons but has been turned into a room with a small stage. Two throne-like chairs faced the stage. We were told that it was a room where small musical groups could perform for the Governor and his guests.

The bathroom, while being a typical Afghan bathroom – I’ll have to write about them sometime – actually had soap. That was something unexpected but welcome. No matter how many times you wash your hands here, there’s always that fine layer of dust and you can see the dirt being washed off your hands. It’s a pretty nasty sometimes.

Well I’ve about run out of things to tell you about the palace…oh, I almost forgot. Ken took a picture of my rear-end. And he says I’m obsessed with it. I think we all know who’s really obsessed with my rear-end, besides my wife…Ken!

JAG Conference

I've been in Kabul the last two days at an ANA JAG Conference. The first two days were conducted by BG Shir, the ANA Judge Advocate General. The training on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are being conducted by DIILS (Defense Institute of International Legal Studies). It's a military agency out of Newport Rhode Island. They send instructors all over the world to conduct training. A LCDR is here and he brought with him two military judges.

The training has been good but the best part has been the questions being asked and the dialogue that is going on. A lot of the questions are ones I've already heard and answered and it's nice to hear the same answers being given that I already gave. Some of the questions and scenarios are dealing with the procedural problems the Afghans have with their system and it's nice to see them deal with the issues and try to find solutions.

We as mentors, and even they as the legal corps of the ANA, have to realize that their system of military of justice is not even a year old. Their military justice system was passed into las last December and it wasn't until around June of this year that it really went into effect. I was told that since June they've done about 50 court martials in the 5 corps. That may seem like a lot or a little, depending on your point of view, but it's been a tremendous success for the ANA to get this far. One of the judges said that it's taken our system of justive over 200 years to develop so the great strides they've made in less than a year are commendable.

It's also been fun to see who it is that's asking the questions. For some reason I take a lot of satisfaction that they're guys from the 201st Corps, my Corps, that are asking the questions. One of the legal officers sometimes asks silly questions and I wish he'd sit down and not ask so many, but at least he and the others are getting the discussion going.

This one in particular that I'm talking about, Wais has a hard time with. The first time we met him he kept putting his hand on Wais' knee. He wasn't really rubbing it, but he would leave it there for a minute or two. He also straightened out his colar and a few other things that made Wais feel uncomfortable. The second time we met him, he did the same things. Now whenever Wais refers to him, the calls him "the guy who likes to rub my knee." I keep teasing him it's because this guy has a thing for Wais. He hates that!

The conference continues through tomorrow. After that we're having a US JAG dinner. I'm looking forward to that as it will give us an opportunity to sit down, relax and enjoy each others company. I'll head "home" sometime after that.

I'm so gald that I don't live here. It's crowded. You have to salute which means I get saluted a lot and I have to salute - not that I mind, it's just a constant stream of saluting. It's also crowded. The offices the JAGs up here have are tiny and crowded. It makes me miss my spacious office. And then I like being able to walk less than 200 steps to my room. There's something comforting about being able to "get away from it all" even though it's just a corner of a shared room, at least it's my room.

Anyway, I just got a phone call and need to go meet with a full-Colonel. He's actually a friend of mine I met in Japan last year. The fact that he's the Number 1 JAG on this compound makes me sort of special!!

OK, it doesn't but it's pretty cool to meet with him and "feel" important.

A Season of Giving

I met another LDS member who's stationed at Bagram Air Base. He's been forwarding me messages from their LDS Group Leader. I especially enjoyed this one and since I couldn't have said it any better myself decided to forward his message to you all.


A Season of Giving
Pete Clemens
Bagram Air Base LDS Group Leader

As I get older time seems to move more quickly, especially during the Christmas season. I remember as a kid the agony of anticipation waiting from Thanksgiving to Christmas day. Now there is a longing to make the spirit of the season last as long as possible. People are more courteous, happier, more giving and forgiving. The saddest part of the Christmas season can be that just when you really begin to feel its spirit of the holiday, it is past for another year.

While at home last week my wife and I were discussing what meaningful gifts we could give for Christmas this year. Again this year I look and see that through the blessings of Heavenly Father there are few wants and needs in this life God has not blessed me and my family with in his due time, especially during this year of deployment. My wife felt similarly and our thoughts were turned to what we could give our Heavenly Father this Christmas in return for His grace in blessing us so freely. As we read in the scriptures this can be a difficult task. Consider the words of King Benjamin.

“I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render all the thanks and praise which your whole soul has power to possess, to that God who has created you, and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye should rejoice, and has granted that ye should live in peace one with another--I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another--I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants. And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you. (Mosiah 2:20-22)

We see it is hard to give any gift to our Heavenly Father without immediately being blessed for it. Furthermore, most the gifts we can give Him were already His, gifts which we have been blessed with from the Father to begin with. I am reminded of the prophetic words of Elder Neil A. Maxwell when he stated, the only gift we can truly give to God is the only thing we truly possess, our will.

We can believe in the plan of salvation, the gospel of Jesus Christ, we can gain a testimony of these things. But this testimony is no gift to God if we allow it to lay dormant. Our true measure of devotion and love to God is what we do with that belief and knowledge. James reminds us that even the devils believe in God, and tremble, but what does it profit them or the Father. “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (James 2: 17-19)

While we may fall at times and prove unprofitable servants, there is no need for discouragement. That was the mission of the babe from Bethlehem. This Christmas away from home, and many of the secular distractions of the holiday season, can be a precious time where we can focus and remember the only gift we can truly give God, the choice of what we will do with the time He has given us. As our thoughts are turned to the birth of the Savior and his unsurpassable gift to mankind, we remember His simple words on what we can give Him and the Father to show our devotion and love. “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)

Jalalabad - Gunner

We had three humvees on this trip and on the way home, three of us who really aren't supposed to be gunners were the gunners. If SGM Hansen would have been there he would have pitched a royal fit. I’m glad I did it though as it was a beautiful drive and I could see so much more of the countryside.

Since I was in the last vehicle I was security for the rear of the convoy. It allowed me to see where we had been as well as where we were going. Because the weather was so nice, people were outside. I got to wave to all the kids and give them the thumbs-up. They are the future of Afghanistan and if we can win their hearts we’ll have so much more success.

For most of the way we traveled next to a river. I should find out its name but don’t want to get up right now and find out. It was beautiful. I saw a young man in a hand-drawn ferry pulling a ferry/raft across the river. He had something on his ferry/raft, looked like boxes, but I couldn’t tell for sure. It looked like something you would have seen in our country a hundred years or more ago.

At one point, I saw a tiny village on the other side of the river, and I mean tiny. There were only about a dozen mud huts all clustered together on the side of the hill. I couldn’t see any way for them to get across so have to assume that they don’t have a burning need to get across. Either that, or they travel miles either up or down the river to the nearest crossing.

As we began to enter the mountainous area, the river took on the appearance of the Columbia River Gorge when you come out of Pendleton. It was incredibly beautiful.

I saw several caves throughout the mountains. I thought of the caves that Bin Ladin has been reported to be living in and imagined that he could have lived in any one of these. That was a sobering thought as I thought that at any time an RPG (rocket propelled grenade) or similar destructive weapon could come firing out of one of the caves. Just my imagination running away with me.

We then entered the gorge that would take us up the mountain pass to the Kabul valley. Graffiti must be one of those universal things as it was all over the place. Not only did you see people’s names, I’m assuming, but advertisements. I saw several “canned goods” ads painted on the rocks.

As we got higher up the pass, we began to serpentine up the side of the cliff – literally. I wish I’d had a camera to take a picture at the narrowness of the road, the sheerness of the cliff and just how high up we were. At first I tried not to pay attention to the road and the drop but I made the mistake of looking. I leaned out over the side of the turret and couldn’t see the shoulder of the road. All I could see was a drop off of at least a thousand feet or more. That’s when the wave of vertigo hit me and I had to sit down in the turret and close my eyes. It was an incredible sight but not one that I could linger on. All too soon the drive was over. Even though it was close to three hours it went by so fast. I’m looking forward to doing it again.

Office Supplies

The Merrill’s, friends of my cousin Russell Fox, sent my wife a check with which to purchase office supplies for the court. It came at the right time. Both the judges and the legal officer were telling me how difficult it was to get office supplies through their own supply chain.

I had Wais go into town and purchase 3 boxes of paper and 200 of the folders they like. Today we went and presented it to the judges and to the legal officer. Their eyes lit up like it was Christmas – which it almost is. They were certainly appreciative and told me to be sure and thank my friends.

So, to the Merrill’s – thank you on behalf of Brigadier General Hemayatullah and his staff and from COL Karim and his staff.

I have received lots of other humanitarian supplies but have not had an opportunity to get them delivered. It’s harder to get those out to the villages as it requires coordination with other units, but don’t worry, it will happen soon.


Don't be fooled by the "dour" look on their faces. I've learned that Afghans don't smile which is too bad beacuse they're really friendly people.

NJP

Another historic event took place yesterday (Tuesday, December 5, 2006) in the 201st Corps, they conducted their first official NJP (Non-judicial punishment). It’s a way to discipline soldiers without having to refer the case for court-martial. We use it in every branch of service in the US.

It was a case where the S4 (logisitics/supply) officer in the 2nd BDE, (yes that’s the "problem child ANA brigade" but what do you expect with mentors like Ken, Trooper, Aaron and the rest of the crew? - KIDDING!!) who attempted to steal fuel from the fuel point and when the SGT wouldn’t give him any fuel, he assaulted the SGT.

The ETT’s wanted this guy fired, placed in pre-trial confinement and court-martialed. They knew he was a worthless supply officer and was suspected of being corrupt. The day of the attempted theft/assault, Ken had told him that he was being watched and to not screw up. So what does he do? He goes out and does this. Not a very bright guy.

Well I was recommending to the SJA that this guy be court-martialed. COL Karim then said that MG Mangal wanted to talk to me about this case. I knew right then that this case was not going to be court-martialed.

Once again I found myself in MG Mangal’s office discussing this case. He explained that he wanted to have mercy on this officer because of his family situation. I won’t tell you yet what it was as I want to build up some curiosity. He said that he wanted to handle this case through NJP. I was excited to hear this only because it was a first step towards actually using the official process. MG Mangall said that he was going to give the officer a letter of reprimand that would go in his personnel file. He said that the letter would be there for the officers career.

The day of the hearing, I met with Karim to discuss the details. I had previously provided him with copies of the forms so we went over them, how to fill them out and what to do with them. We then discussed possible punishments. I said that I already knew what punishment MG Mangall was considering and that in addition to a letter of reprimand, he should forfeit some of the officers pay but then suspend the actual forfeiture. That way the officer would know that if he screwed up in the future he could actually lose money. Karim said that he was going to recommend that he actually forfeit 5 days of pay. I thought that was a good idea but I had my doubts that Karim would actually recommend that but hoped he would.

Well 3:00 p.m. came and found Wais, Merrill, Karim and I, along with the investigator, the victim and the accused in MG Mangall’s office. The accused looked like he was about to either wet his pants or cry; maybe both. As MG Mangall read him his right, the accused kept looking at me. I guess I’m a scary guy or something. Actually I think the ANA think that the American’s are the ones running their military justice system, and you know what, they’re right!! OK, not really.

When MG Mangal asked the accused if he wanted to make a statement, the accused admitted to everything, turned to the victim and said that he was “like a son” and that he was sorry for what he had done. MG Mangall looked to me, again – he kept looking to me instead of his own SJA for guidance – I guess that means I’m the greatest SJA ever!!!!! – and asked if we needed to hear the witnesses. I said that we should hear from the victim, if he wanted to make a statement. The victim said “no” and that he had forgiven the officer for beating him.

Then came the punishment. I was ready for the written letter of reprimand to come out. I was ready for Karim to recommend 5 days forfeiture of pay. Instead, came a very kind, smiling, fatherly advice to be a better soldier. I couldn’t believe it. Actually I could. I had a sneaking feeling that this is what would happen. MG Mangall said that the reason for the verbal warning only was because of the officer’s family. No, I’m not going to tell you yet. He said that he expects this officer to be a better officer in the future and that he, Mangall, doesn’t want to hear any unfavorable reports about him in the future.

Me, being the mean prosecutor that I am, just had to get in a barb. I wanted this guy to know just how lucky he was. I told him that MG Mangall had shown him mercy but that in addition to the verbal warning he could have received the written letter of reprimand, could have been restricted to base for 20 days, had to perform hard labor for 10 days and forfeit up to 20 days of his pay. I was hoping to instill a fear in him to never do something like this again. I’m so mean! I love it!!

So what was it about his family that persuaded MG Mangall to have “mercy?” He’s got 2 wives and 14 children!! Can you even imagine?

So there you have it. If you have 2 wives and 14 children, you can attempt to steal fuel for your personal vehicle and beat up a soldier and only get a kindly delivered verbal warning.

Lest you think I’m too cynical about it I’m not. It’s at least a step in the right direction and for that I’m grateful.

Christmas Music

One of my favorite things about Christmas is the music. Those that know me will know this is no revelation. I’m even guilty of listening to Christmas music before it’s officially acceptable. Well this year I had decided that I wasn’t going to listen to any Christmas music until right before “the day” as I didn’t want to make myself homesick. One night at dinner last week I made the comment to Steve (Trooper). He said that he had felt the same way but had started listening anyway. He said it made him feel so much better and didn’t make him feel homesick. I decided to test his theory.

Well he’s right. Yes it’s hard not to be home this year but the music has not made me homesick in the least. On the contrary it has had a great uplifting effect. Since I don’t have to worry about the commercial side this year, other than standing in line for over an hour waiting to mail boxes home last week, I’ve been able to really think about what the season is all about. I mean, isn’t the birth of the Savior the real reason for the season?

You’ll probably hear this from me again before Christmas day, but as we drive back and forth to various places, I’ll see the shepherds with their flocks. While there are no fields per se, the scene still reminds of another group of shepherds with their flocks out by night. It’s made me think of what it must have been like for Joseph and Mary traveling by donkey (we see them as well) to Bethlehem. And those images help me remember what we’re really celebrating. And that helps me not to dwell on my own issues for very long.

So I hope that as you listen to your Christmas music you’ll let the message of the music remind you of what we’re really celebrating, the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

The Governor's Visit

Governor Hunstman was here at Blackhorse on Friday, December 1, 2006. It was an honor to meet with him.

He got here just before lunch. As I walked out of my building, he was standing there with a group of several individuals, including BG Pritt, the governor from Oregon, Ken, Steve, Jimmy and a few others. As I walked up and stood just outside the group, Ken mentioned something about Akhtar. The governor turned his attention to me so I started to tell him about the court martial. At that time, BG Pritt interjected, “you have to tell him the pre-trial confinement story.” I laughed and told him to read it on my blog page – a shameless plug but ended up telling him the story anyway. For those of you who don’t’ know the story, you will have to read it here as I’m not going to repeat it. What was so cool about the experience is the attention he gave me. He looked at the me the whole time, appeared to be interested and gave me his full attention. Steve says that’s one of his great qualities. Steve knows him from his work on the Highway Patrol.

After a briefing and lunch with his troops, we met in B-Hut 3 for a quite, intimate meeting with him. He gave us an update on how things are going at home. Everything from the Jazz to the economy. It was great to hear about what was happening at home. He then thanked us on behalf of the State of Utah for our service here. He praised as “heroes” but then quickly added that the real “heroes,” “the unsung heroes” are our wives and families at home. A chorus of nods and murmurs of agreement echoed that comment as each one of us thought about our own families and the tremendous love and support you all are giving us. He said that his State of the State address will focus on the Guard and the families. He said that he will give the address from the Air Guard facility at the Airport. I’ll look forward to hearing or reading his address.

He talked about how there are certain experiences in his life that he’ll never forget. He smiled and said he’d never forget the day he got married. We all laughed and agreed with that. He said he’d never forget the day he was sworn in as governor. He then got very emotional as tears came to his eyes. He had to look down for several seconds and then said that he would never forget LT Lundell’s memorial service the night before. Of course that brought back a flood of memories as we remembered the previous night’s emotions. There were tears in a few eyes. He again mentioned his meeting with President Karzai and of the President’s gratitude and praise of Scott. The governor then said that in addition to the note that he had written, he was sending a gift to Scott’s wife, a piece of jewelry. The Governor said it was a beautiful piece and was indicative of the President’s appreciation for Scott’s sacrifice. He again thanked us for our service. He concluded by telling us to come home safely.

After that, we had the opportunity to go out by the Blackhorse Rock and take pictures. I was standing next to Steve (not Esplin) in the back and the Governor was in front of the rock. Because of the number of people who needed to fit into the picture, he moved to the back of the rock, stood right next to me, and put his arm around my shoulder for the picture. It was pretty cool. He said he was going to frame the picture and hang it at home. Now I and the rest of our team will be famous!!

2LT Scott Lundell's Memorial Service

NOTE: I didn't post this last week as Governor Huntsman has a personal message to deliver to Scott's wife. In case he hasn't yet been to the Lundell home, please do not say anything to Jeanine.

Last night was Scott’s memorial service at Phoenix. It was a wonderful, inspirational service but I hope I never have to experience one again. Governor Huntsman is here in country visiting soldiers from Utah so we waited for him to arrive from a visit with President Karzai. Apparently he is a personal friend of President Karzai and has entertained the President at his home in Salt Lake.

At the front of the room was a memorial to Scott. I’ll include a picture so you can see what it looked like. But, there was a pair of boots, an M4 with fixed bayonet, dog tags hanging from the M4, a Kevlar helmet sitting atop the rifle, the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart and the other medals he earned here were being awarded, as well as a picture of Scott taken in the field. SGT Stewart, our group leader, placed a set of scriptures there as well. It was simple but very powerful. As was later explained, the boots, the helmet, the weapon and the dog tags are the tools of the soldiers trade and were there to serve as a reminder.

Since we got there early, it gave us the opportunity to see “old friends” from home. As Stoney commented, it takes a wedding and a funeral to get the “family” together. It was a bittersweet moment seeing friends from home, friends that we haven’t seen since we all left Phoenix. I know I wasn’t the only one who would have preferred not seeing them if it had to be under these circumstances. But it was still good to see them.

As the time for the service drew near, I was impressed to see the room fill to standing room only. I wasn’t sure just how many people would come to pay their respects but was proud to see fellow Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, Navy personnel and even civilians sitting and standing as we waited to pay our last respects.

Governor Huntsman finally arrived and the service began. BG Pritt, Governor Huntsman, COL Acton, CSM Stone, LT Austin and the Chaplain all approached the stand. COL Acton was obviously being affected by what was about to transpire. Before the service began we had talked about the emotions that he must be going through. While he had absolutely no control over the situation, we all knew, because we know him, that he would be feeling responsible for the loss of Scott. We all knew that his goal was to bring everyone home together and now, one of us was returning home before the rest of us.

On the program it said that we would start with an invocation. Now don’t take this wrong, but I didn’t want the Chaplain to “read” a prayer that he had written. I wanted to hear a prayer offered from the heart. I wasn’t to be disappointed. That’s why LT Austin was on the stand. He was a friend of Scott’s from Shelby. His wife and Scott’s wife are friends at home so it was only fitting that he should give the invocation. LT Austin offered a beautiful, from-the-heart prayer on behalf of Scott, his family and the service that was about to begin. I know it’s silly but I was so grateful that an LDS style prayer was offered for an LDS soldier; it was inspired and from the heart.

BG Pritt spoke first, detailing Scott’s life and service. Even though BG Pritt didn’t know Scott, you’d never guess. His remarks were warm and personal. It was obvious that BG Pritt cared for Scott and was saddened by his death. He paid tribute to the heroism Scott displayed. He talked about how after 9-11 Scott’s goal in life was to serve his country in order to keep it and his family safe. He mentioned how Scott had started a business with the goal of selling it so that he could use the proceeds to support his family while he completed his military training. He talked about Scott’s desire to join the Special Forces. He praised Scott’s work ethic; telling us of his dedication to this mission and to the ANA. Scott never did anything half-hearted and was a man among men. He was a large man, both in spirit and in stature and commanded respect from everyone he met, and yet, despite his imposing size, he was a kind and gentle man. BG Pritt then talked about Scott’s love for his family; his wife Jeanine and his children Adam, Allison, Logan and Liberty. I know all thoughts were with his family at their mention and I know I’m not the only one who feels the anguish they must be going through.

After BG Pritt, Governor Huntsman spoke. He too praised Scott for his valor and courage. He mentioned that he would have shaken Scott’s hand prior to our departure from Salt Lake and shared words of encouragement with him. Governor Huntsman then told us about the meeting he had just had with President Karzai. He told the President about the dedication that those that are serving Afghanistan are displaying on a daily basis. He then said that one of Governor Huntsman’s Utah soldier paid the ultimate sacrifice for President Karzai’s country. He posed the question to the President, what could he, President Karzai, say to Scott’s wife. President Karzai said that he was going to write a personal note to Jeanine expressing his gratitude to her for and her family’s sacrifice.

After the Governor, COL Acton spoke. The emotions were very close to the surface. He praised Scott’s valor, his dedication to the mission. He too spoke of Scott’s great love for his family and that our prayers would be with them. As I suspected, he talked about not being able to bring all his soldiers home at the same time and the pain that was causing him. He spoke of Scott’s dedication to the Lord. He then read a passage from 2 Timothy, Chapter 4, Verses 6-8:

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

I had to choke back the tears when he read those verses. I don’t think I was alone.

CSM Stone the spoke about the symbolism of the display and what each of the items posted meant.

The Chaplain offered a few words. The one thing he said that I remember the most is that “this life is a testing place, not a resting place.” I was really struck by that comment. Life is not meant to be easy. We don’t always understand why things happen. We may never understand until that day we stand before the Lord but if we have faith in Him, He can make it easier for us to get through the grief and the challenges we are called upon to face.

Next came a photo presentation. The pictures showed training at Shelby, it showed him with his friends there, it showed him here in country, it showed him reading his scriptures. Then came the photos of the “ramp ceremony” and I once again had to choke back the tears. I think someone next to me even said something like “Oh no” meaning that the emotions that were about to come would be raw and painful.

The “ramp ceremony” is where the flag-draped coffin is carried into the back of the plane. The coffin is carried between two rows of service men, standing there paying their last respects. I understand it is a very moving thing to actually experience.

And sure enough, that’s what the pictures showed. But what got to me more than anything were the images of his friends and fellow soldiers kneeling at the side of his coffin in the back of that plane, heads bowed, offering silent prayers. I can only imagine what supplications were being raised to the Lord and I know that the Lord heard every one of them.

The invocation was next on the program. Again, I thought that maybe it would be the Chaplain but it wasn’t. The prayer that was offered by Scott’s commander before his body was flown out after the ramp ceremony was recorded and then played for us. It was another “LDS” prayer. For some reason I was grateful. It was heart wrenching to hear the sadness in the voice offering the prayer but at the same time there was comfort in the prayer. References to the atonement of our Savior were apparent to those who could “hear.” It was a beautiful prayer.

Roll Call was next. Aaron was sitting next to me and had told me that the Roll Call would be a hard one for SGM Hansen to get through. Aaron said he’s experienced one before and that it was very emotional. He wouldn’t tell me any more than that. At the conclusion of the slide show, I heard SGM Hansen call out “SGT Aaron!” I didn’t realize that SGM Hansen had stepped forward and was now facing the crowd. “Present Sergeant Major!!” came Aaron’s reply. At that moment I knew what was coming. SGM called out two other names and those soldiers acknowledged their presence in the formation. “LT Lundell.” Silence. “2LT Scott Lundell.” – SGM’s voice began to betray his emotions - Silence; except for the sound of the inhaling of breath as soldiers attempted to keep control of their emotions. “2LT Scott Blanchard Lundell” came the sob-filled call. Silence now except for the sounds of quiet weeping by warriors who were feeling the pain of the loss of this great man.

The roll call was followed by a 21-gun salute and then the playing of taps.

Finally it was announced that those on the stand and other dignitaries would “Render Honors” to the fallen soldier. BG Pritt, Governor Huntsman and the rest of those on the stand filed off. Then one by one, starting with BG Pritt, they marched to the memorial, did a left-face, saluted the memorial then knelt and offered a silent prayer. Then some small token that would be sent back to the family was left. A general’s coin, a flag off a uniform, something that was offered in respect and admiration for Scott’s service. After the dignitaries had their turn, then the rest of us had the same opportunity. What a moment, to stand their and render honors to this brave, heroic man.

Once outside, a flag ceremony took place. A flag that had been flying over Camp Phoenix was lowered, folded and presented to BG Pritt which I’m sure will make it’s way to the Lundell home. I hope Jeanine will know what the flag means to each one of us who were there at that ceremony, that we salute 2LT Scott Lundell for his dedication, courage and heroism and that our thoughts and prayers will be with her and her children.

This quote by General Douglas MacArthur seems so appropriate in this situation, “The soldier above all other people prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.”

I think the only thing I would add to his statement is that “the soldier and his family above all other people…”

To Scott’s family, thank you! To our own families, thank you!

Jalalabad - Lunch

We had lunch in a different location each day. Each time the food was essentially the same; rice, some kind of meat, sliced vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro), a warm vegetable (potatoes, spinach, squash), naan (flat bread) and fruit for dessert (apples and bananas). Two of the days we were treated to fresh fish. Granted the fish was battered and fried, but it delicious nonetheless.

The first day we ate at an MOD (Ministry of Defense) outpost on the edge of a reservoir formed by the river running through the valley. It was a beautiful location. To look at the buildings, once again you’d think it was a ruin and not a working MOD outpost. We sat on the ground, on carpets and on pillows. To be polite we needed to sit “Indian” style with our legs crossed but since we’re not used to sitting that way it was a challenge. It was one of the first times in my life where my dirty, dusty boot was a mere inches away from the food. The Afghans put the naan right on the table, or in this case, the ground so that was something a squeamish, clean-freak person would have a hard time with. I just figured, “I haven’t gotten sick yet” and hoped that I wouldn’t get sick, which I didn’t. The fruit is overripe so that it’s at it’s sweetest. I ate an apple the first day but it was so mushy I about gagged. After that I politely declined.


(Yes, that's my boot that's sitting there in the plate of lamb and inches from the bread.)

As we sat there by the lake, you could see a village across the water. Just like us, people flock to the water. As I was looking across the water I saw a “jingle-boat” moving across the water. I’ve told you about the “jingle trucks” before, how they’re painted in bright colors and patterns or pictures, well this boat was not to be outdone. Even from a distance I could tell that it fit the “jingle-truck” mode.

The next day we ate at another MOD facility. This time we ate in the commander’s office. We sat around on sofas and love seats and the food was served on the low tables scattered about the room. Like the day before, it was pretty crowded. The thing of note that day was when I sat down in the corner and put my arm on the arm rest, just as I was about to hang my arm over the side of the arm rest noticed a spider web with a big ole spider sitting there. I about jumped out of my seat but managed to stay composed and did my best to ignore the spider that I’m sure was just sitting there eyeing me, wondering where and how he could bite me.

Our final lunch was at one of the police chief’s homes. It was a big, beautiful home. It really “pays” to be in crime prevention here. Can you hear the sarcasm dripping from my voice? This chief was only in his mid-thirties and had accumulated a vast amount of wealth in a short period of time. Do you see where I’m going with this?

This time, the eating accommodations were the best. The food was just as good but served in serving bowls, on real plates (they still had the price tags on them) with real silverware. At the first place, it was all eating with your hands, using the bread as a spoon. Again, we were served fresh fish. The legal officer from the 2nd Brigade ate as much fish as he could get his hands on. There was a lot of laughing as he ate. When I asked Wais what was so funny he said that the other Afghans were saying that the fish were an aphrodisiac and the legal officer was getting his fill so that when he got home that night...well you can guess the rest.

Anyone got some fish??

Jalalabad - Public Transportation

JBad had all these motorized rickshaws everywhere. Someone said that you see them all over India so those, combined with how green it was, reminded them of India. I wish I had had my camera – it’s in the States getting fixed – so I could have taken a picture of them. I’ll have to see if one of my fellow travelers took one. Anyway, they’re painted with brilliant colors, covered with tassles, bells, stickers and anything else you can imagine to make them as striking as possible.

Now they only seat 3-4 but no capitalistic minded rickshaw driver is going to be stopped by seat limitations. You would see people hanging out of the sides of these things everywhere. It was quite amusing to see but I imagine just a little dangerous as well. They drive everywhere and get in the way of traffic. We actually saw one hit a traffic control officer in the street. He was not very happy.

I’ve mentioned the jingle trucks before and JBad had its share. What I had never seen before though was the “seats” that had been built on the grill of the trucks. That was something that I could not believe, seeing men and boys sitting on this makeshift seat on the grill of a big truck. Now that looked quite dangerous. I mean, can you imagine the brakes going out on your “public” transportation and you suddenly becoming the “bumper” on the truck. Quite the thought.

This one is not painted as brightly as some of them so you'll just have to use your imagination.

Jalalabad - Gifts

It’s an Afghan custom to give gifts to your visitors. We weren’t disappointed. When we were at the Governor’s Palace, he presented us with very nice material with which to make Afghan “man-jammies.” They really look like pajamas. The pants are loose and baggy and the shirt hangs low like a night shirt. The shirt can be made in many different ways; collar/no collar/ cuffs/no cuffs, embroidery on the front, open/buttoned front. Lots of different ways. Wais is going to take my material into town and have a tailor make mine.

At one of the MOD sites, the Brigadier General brought in gifts of scarves and hats are called “pakol” and were worn and made popular by a local hero, Massoud, who was assassinated earlier this year. I just about bought an identical hat at the bazaar the day before so was glad that I waited.

Now all I need to do is buy Janae a burka and we can be an Afghan couple for Halloween.

I was zoning out apparently.

LT Lundell's Memorial Service

I was going to write about last night's memorial service but have decided to wait. Actually it's written I'm just going to wait to post it so check back next week.

Oh, Governor Huntsman was here today and since his visit is intertwined with LT Lundell's service you'll have to check back next week as well.

First Snow, First Snow Ball Fight

It snowed, or maybe it’s a more accurate statement to say it attempted to snow yesterday. Nothing stuck but we could at least say there was snow falling from the sky. But, last night it snowed. Not a lot but enough that the vehicles had an inch or so on them, enough to make a snowball.

2nd BDE was getting ready to convoy out and about. While Aaron was getting the vehicles ready, he drew a “happy” snow picture. Of course as I walked by, I had to scoop a handful and throw it in his general direction. Of course I had to throw one in trooper’s general direction. Soon snowballs were flying fast and furious and with deadly, laser precision aim.

The mountains were of course covered with snow and it really looked like home. The clouds hugged the mountains all day and made a beautiful sight. I think winter is finally upon us.