I just noticed what a beautiful day it is here in FOB XXXX. The sun is shining and although I've been trying for a week to get out of here to start on my R&R leave, I just had to make note that this place is kind of growing on me. Of course, this FOB (Forward Operating Base) is not as well-developed since it does not have the luxuries like the other FOBs (ie. Post Exchange, Coffee Bean, AAFES contracted stores, Afghan bazaars, post office, etc) since it's so small and close to the XXXX border where it's a prime target for all the bad guys. This location and the aesthetics of what's here is far from perfect or pleasing to the eye. I have to maneuver through a rocky terrain to get around and the edifices are the color of concrete.
What makes this place great are the people in it. This place does not have the same political aura as the other places I've been at so far. Of course, they still have to conform to the same regulations as the other places, but it's more laid back. The guys here are the ones who are out there in the front lines, getting shot at when they go out on missions, so when they come "home" to this FOB, they come to unwind and relax away from their missions. There is a small MWR room where some congregate to keep in touch with their loved ones by phone or internet. A majority stay in their rooms "to chill out", there are a few who are in the make shift gym and mess hall.
It's a quiet day today. No mortars firing, no casualties to mend, no specific mission to attend to. So, with all of the previous bad weather we've had, and the frustration of trying to leave here, I wanted to take the time to notice that even with all the circumstances that we're up against here, it's still a beautiful day.
1 comment:
That was a very refreshing post. Glad you are doing well and see you soon!
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