I can't believe it, but the "computer lab" is allowing me to post on this blog. I'll have to remember this one and try to get it again. My Dell is still unable to connect to the wireless. I've spent the last two nights on the phone with Dell to no avail. It is almost impossible to get in touch with the people who run the wireless here and I am busy most of the day, so this is my big challenge. The hardest thing is not being able to call Stacey and Aaron on Skype. Aaron now points to the computer to see me on it.
We finished our 9mm pistol qualification today with a "stress" test. We had to get our heartrate up by exercising, then get our gear on and run to various obstacles and then shoot at the targets. I liked it. So I've passed all three parts of my pistol qualification and am theoretically done with it. I can try to qualify on the rifle, but after my shooting today, I'll have a tough time. It was my first bad day of shooting with the rifle. Fortunately, I won't have one in theatre.
We had some classes on first aid and land navigation and a few other odds and ends such as communications. The instructors (drill sergeants) can be entertaining, but overall the methods and prep leave something to be desired, perhaps an inservice day at South Brunswick would help ... or not.
Learning first aid and rescue breathing (not CPR) as well as field carries is interesting when you put the twist on it that you are in a combat situation and receiving fire. We had some platoon relay competition on carrying each other around 10 meters or so. It was fun, a good motivator.
More shooting tomorrow and practical land navigation (orienteering). They drop us off somewhere with a map and compass and tell us to get home. I'm looking forward to it. In the last class we are told one group got so lost they wandered onto a firing range.
Hopefully, I'll be able to post again soon.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Computer Problems
It started earlier than I thought it would, but I have some problems with the computer already aside from generally poor wireless connections. I am posting this from another guy's computer, so don't know when I'll be posting again or answering email due to this problem. Looks like my Sunday will be spent on the phone with my friend Dell. It's not my fault!
Friday went well for me, I shot well with both weapons. We had a short land navigation class, using a map and compass and learned how the army locates points on a map - simpler and quicker than trying to get lat/long and generally effective.
Saturday afternoon was off and I was able to get a haircut and pick up a few things. In the evening a few of us got together at a little club/bar they have set up a few building down from where we sleep. I suppose you might compare it to Rosie's from MASH. About seven of us who barely know each other were laughing like crazy and telling sea stories from years ago. Some things never change.
Hopefully, I'll be through these computer issues at some point. We "graduate" on Wednesday, Feb 6 and then travel off during the next couple days. I'll be headed to Kuwait to the famed Udari Range for some slightly advanced training in shooting and convoy operations. I surely do not know if I'll have any Internet access during that week, but we'll see, stranger things have happened.
Friday went well for me, I shot well with both weapons. We had a short land navigation class, using a map and compass and learned how the army locates points on a map - simpler and quicker than trying to get lat/long and generally effective.
Saturday afternoon was off and I was able to get a haircut and pick up a few things. In the evening a few of us got together at a little club/bar they have set up a few building down from where we sleep. I suppose you might compare it to Rosie's from MASH. About seven of us who barely know each other were laughing like crazy and telling sea stories from years ago. Some things never change.
Hopefully, I'll be through these computer issues at some point. We "graduate" on Wednesday, Feb 6 and then travel off during the next couple days. I'll be headed to Kuwait to the famed Udari Range for some slightly advanced training in shooting and convoy operations. I surely do not know if I'll have any Internet access during that week, but we'll see, stranger things have happened.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Best Day Yet
After a lot of waiting around yesterday, we shot live rounds today. Yesterday we used an M16 rifle attached to a computer to "group and zero" our weapon. I did well, but the real thing is a little tougher.
Today we got to the range early and started shooting after our safety brief. We shot a number of sets of rounds on our rifle in order to get a good grouping and then have a Drill Sergeant set the sights for us. After "personalizing" the weapon, it will put the rounds where we want them, hopefully, if we continue to aim the same way. After setting the sights, shooting, and then cleaning it when complete, there is defintite feeling of accomplishment. This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine... (I won't be naming it Charlene).
We then received some familiarization with humvees similar to the ones we will convoy in. There is more than meets the eye. The afternoon was filled with our M9 pistol qualification. Although I used to shoot a 45, the 9mm is similar enough that I qualified as expert. We had to shoot the pistol in full battle gear, change out magazines during fire, drop to a knee to shoot during fire, and most surprising for me shoot with our none shooting hand for a few rounds. This qualification is most important to me as the pistol I was issued is my "go-to-war-weapon," meaning I take this one with me to Afghanistan. The rifle I will check back in before I leave here.
On a slightly troubling note, one of the captains that I became friendly with who roomed across the hall dropped out due to a medical disqualification/injury. He was active duty and volunteered to go over - he is a medical doctor and his skills will be sorely missed.
I am honored that my old shipmate from Richmond K. Turner posted here under the name "Paris." Greg is one of the officers attending a more arduous combat training school (2 months) and he is headed over to Afghanistan. Perhaps we will bump into each other there.
Today was long, but tomorrow will be longer. We'll leave at 0600 and return after a night fire at around 2000. I hear it's a fun day though.
Today we got to the range early and started shooting after our safety brief. We shot a number of sets of rounds on our rifle in order to get a good grouping and then have a Drill Sergeant set the sights for us. After "personalizing" the weapon, it will put the rounds where we want them, hopefully, if we continue to aim the same way. After setting the sights, shooting, and then cleaning it when complete, there is defintite feeling of accomplishment. This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine... (I won't be naming it Charlene).
We then received some familiarization with humvees similar to the ones we will convoy in. There is more than meets the eye. The afternoon was filled with our M9 pistol qualification. Although I used to shoot a 45, the 9mm is similar enough that I qualified as expert. We had to shoot the pistol in full battle gear, change out magazines during fire, drop to a knee to shoot during fire, and most surprising for me shoot with our none shooting hand for a few rounds. This qualification is most important to me as the pistol I was issued is my "go-to-war-weapon," meaning I take this one with me to Afghanistan. The rifle I will check back in before I leave here.
On a slightly troubling note, one of the captains that I became friendly with who roomed across the hall dropped out due to a medical disqualification/injury. He was active duty and volunteered to go over - he is a medical doctor and his skills will be sorely missed.
I am honored that my old shipmate from Richmond K. Turner posted here under the name "Paris." Greg is one of the officers attending a more arduous combat training school (2 months) and he is headed over to Afghanistan. Perhaps we will bump into each other there.
Today was long, but tomorrow will be longer. We'll leave at 0600 and return after a night fire at around 2000. I hear it's a fun day though.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Three Days Down
Well, the wireless was down for a few days, but we have now finished our third day here. We have received more equipment than one can believe. The most important items are the M16 rifle and M9 pistol. We carry these weapons wherever we go and are getting used to the procedures on how to keep them safe and how to shoot of course. We broke down the weapons to their component parts and put them back together a number of times. Why? Because you told me to Drill Serjint! We received our full body armour. I'm wondering how we will be able to shoot with it on, but I'll have that answer tomorrow.
I'm meeting all kinds of people here. Everyone who goes over has to attend a school like this one, or longer, doctors, engineers, chaplains, line officers, intelligence, supply, logistics, military media, lawyers, the list goes on. The 19 roomates I had on the first day grew to 24 or so and now it is down to zero. Yesterday, I got my own room. The Captains rate a single room and I let the command know that I was selected and since they had an extra room, I was able to get it. This makes a world of difference. In addition to having a lot of room for all my stuff, I have a small flatscreen, fridge, microwave, and a nice lounge area that we share. RHIP.
South Carolina is not as warm or dry as I remember. It rains and we were out at 0530 the last couple days in sub-20 degree temps. Since I am from NJ, I say it's no big deal. It does feel real cold during the day when we have to stand around waiting to get something or our turn in line. That is probably the biggest negative here. Seeing the Army and Navy work together is interesting, everyone seems to get along, so far.
I'm meeting all kinds of people here. Everyone who goes over has to attend a school like this one, or longer, doctors, engineers, chaplains, line officers, intelligence, supply, logistics, military media, lawyers, the list goes on. The 19 roomates I had on the first day grew to 24 or so and now it is down to zero. Yesterday, I got my own room. The Captains rate a single room and I let the command know that I was selected and since they had an extra room, I was able to get it. This makes a world of difference. In addition to having a lot of room for all my stuff, I have a small flatscreen, fridge, microwave, and a nice lounge area that we share. RHIP.
South Carolina is not as warm or dry as I remember. It rains and we were out at 0530 the last couple days in sub-20 degree temps. Since I am from NJ, I say it's no big deal. It does feel real cold during the day when we have to stand around waiting to get something or our turn in line. That is probably the biggest negative here. Seeing the Army and Navy work together is interesting, everyone seems to get along, so far.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Pleasant Surprise
We arrived at Fort Jackson just before 1800 after 9.5 hours on the bus/making too many stops on the way. The bus was a greyhound, but a little small for this size of crew and all the gear. One bus had to be switched out on the way due to engine problems, but other than that the trip was fine. We did have to pass Rock Ridge, fortunately someone had a ****load of dimes.
The good news is that contrary to what we were told by many in Norfolk, we do have wireless here in the barracks. Right now I am rooming with nineteen other guys, one of whom is a Catholic priest. I'll keep everyone updated as time and the wireless allows.
The fun starts tomorrow.
The good news is that contrary to what we were told by many in Norfolk, we do have wireless here in the barracks. Right now I am rooming with nineteen other guys, one of whom is a Catholic priest. I'll keep everyone updated as time and the wireless allows.
The fun starts tomorrow.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Last Night in Norfolk
We received our uniforms, mine don't fit well, but I'll deal. Chicks in New York paying top dollar for this stuff. I got some swell navy glasses for free (fo' free?, fo' free! - SBHS joke), they're some real BCD's (navy joke). There was almost a mutiny about how much stuff we can bring to Fort Jackson. I am a bit over myself, but not much choice now on getting rid of it. A huge thanks goes to my old shipmate Ken Blackmon for picking me up for dinner a number of nights and taking me to the UPS Store to send some stuff back home. I wish I had sent more.
Most people leave here with bad taste due to the navy's "hurry up and wait" policy. We get together at a certain time and then end up waiting, sometimes for hours, for our turn to get things done. I heard it was bad before I got here, but I certainly did not expect it like it was. We get together at 0730 Saturday, but still don't know exactly when the busses will leave.
As a reminder, we're told that Internet access is limited in Fort Jackson, no wireless where we are. I will update when I can.
Most people leave here with bad taste due to the navy's "hurry up and wait" policy. We get together at a certain time and then end up waiting, sometimes for hours, for our turn to get things done. I heard it was bad before I got here, but I certainly did not expect it like it was. We get together at 0730 Saturday, but still don't know exactly when the busses will leave.
As a reminder, we're told that Internet access is limited in Fort Jackson, no wireless where we are. I will update when I can.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Jury Duty
I know people are always looking for ways to get out of jury duty. Well, apparently being recalled to active duty for Afghanistan is a good way. So, put it on your list. (Note, it probably won't work in Essex County).
Here is what happened. The day I leave, Stacey gets the summons in the mail for me. We had a good laugh. Of course I immediately asked the navy if this meant I should go home to serve it out. They did not laugh.
Stacey wrote on the card what I was doing and they immediately mailed a card back excusing me from jury duty. So I got that going for me, which is nice.
Here is what happened. The day I leave, Stacey gets the summons in the mail for me. We had a good laugh. Of course I immediately asked the navy if this meant I should go home to serve it out. They did not laugh.
Stacey wrote on the card what I was doing and they immediately mailed a card back excusing me from jury duty. So I got that going for me, which is nice.
Finishing NMPS
We enter our last day of NMPS tomorrow - just travel claims and uniform issue. Today we got fit and tested for our gas masks. So now I have a really nice mask, best I've ever seen. I stood in line for almost two hours to get it, but that's another story. I am told my pay will be fine. The reserves still owes me money for December and some from 2006. Once I go over to the active pay, which is now, they won't be able to pay me even if they wanted to as the systems do not speak to each other I'm told. It's OK though, because if everything went smoothly, I would have nothing to complain about and that is contrary to my Jewish upbringing.
The real culprit in the process so far appears to be the NOSC (reserve center). I had two weekends to check out and have my medical/dental/admin records put up to date. They weren't close. Politically, we are supposed to just blame ourselves, but this was too much. The computer system (DEERS) did not recognize Aaron, my shots were more out of date than I realized (plus they just like giving you more), and a few other odds and ends. In spite of the card reading system being down in Norfolk, I did get Aaron added. I had to promise some civilian some things I'll never be able to deliver on, mais c'est la guerre.
For the record, about half the shots hurt going in, the tetanus is giving me the fever, it always has. The good news is that when that one goes away is the time the small pox fever should be kicking in. I'm very excited about that. Anthrax-schmanthrax.
Today I have to figure out what I am mailing back to Stacey, what I won't need from here on out. The bus to Fort Jackson, SC leaves sometime on Saturday, we have not been told when of course...
The real culprit in the process so far appears to be the NOSC (reserve center). I had two weekends to check out and have my medical/dental/admin records put up to date. They weren't close. Politically, we are supposed to just blame ourselves, but this was too much. The computer system (DEERS) did not recognize Aaron, my shots were more out of date than I realized (plus they just like giving you more), and a few other odds and ends. In spite of the card reading system being down in Norfolk, I did get Aaron added. I had to promise some civilian some things I'll never be able to deliver on, mais c'est la guerre.
For the record, about half the shots hurt going in, the tetanus is giving me the fever, it always has. The good news is that when that one goes away is the time the small pox fever should be kicking in. I'm very excited about that. Anthrax-schmanthrax.
Today I have to figure out what I am mailing back to Stacey, what I won't need from here on out. The bus to Fort Jackson, SC leaves sometime on Saturday, we have not been told when of course...
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
The Journey Begins...
I departed on Thursday, January 11 for Newark, took a flight to Reagan National in DC and a friend picked me up. I arrived at Andrews Air Force Base for about three hours of processing stretched out to three days. On Saturday, 1/12 I was able to hang out with my navy unit. Saturday evening my dinner friends took me out for some food and football.
On Sunday, January 13, I flew down to Norfolk, VA for one week of processing, mostly medical and trying to get the transition to active duty complete. Other than getting six shots including small pox and anthrax, I'm surviving all right.
On Saturday a few hundred of us will take a bus to South Carolina for three weeks of training.
On Sunday, January 13, I flew down to Norfolk, VA for one week of processing, mostly medical and trying to get the transition to active duty complete. Other than getting six shots including small pox and anthrax, I'm surviving all right.
On Saturday a few hundred of us will take a bus to South Carolina for three weeks of training.
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