UPDATE FROM AFGHANISTAN

I wanted to write now as I know many of you will be busy packing and repacking those bikes to get all the gear and goodies aboard to head to RC and then on to DC. We've been in country now for a little over two months and all is going well. Since our arrival I've been to 9 HERO ceremonies of fallen Marines and Coalition forces that have paid the ultimate sacrifice and given their fullest measure for their buddies, the mission and the United States of America. We are facing a large drawdown in the coming months and because of that I'm keeping the very best here to ensure we have the right folks to accomplish the mission. That said, I'm staying for the year as well and won't be returning like I initially planned in Sept, as I can't ask others to stay when if I leave. While many only see the bad there is good happening here. Schools, medical centers, district and provincial governments are being established and strengthen daily. The Afghan Security Forces are improving as well...they aren't to our standards, but a lesson we learned in Iraq is they don't have to be. This is a different culture and we just want to empower them enough to provide security from internal and external threats so that governance can flourish here. The weather is warming slowly which will help to prepare everyone for this summer's high temps. Last year our highs were only in the 112 degree range so if we can keep it there this year that would be a blessing. We've had some rain and sandstorms but all in all the weather has been pretty good. Morale is high and living conditions continue to improve daily...I'm actually writing to you all from my room which has a wireless internet capability in it (not strong but not to bad either)....far improved from my first deployment to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait during Desert Storm. Last night we even had a great concert put on by the USO staring Toby Keith....that was really great too....got to hear a lot of songs that he said "they wouldn't play on the radio"....but very good. This is his 10th year doing this for our military....go Toby! Well that's about all from here...I wish each and everyone of you a safe ride and one that will build camaraderie, healing and renew a new spirit of patriotism in each and everyone of you whether this is your first or 21st ride. God Bless you, God Bless America & Semper Fidelis....from Camp Leather, Helmand Province, Afghanistan...this is SixShooter...I'm out!

 

What a post---something that definitely lifts our spirits up.     Thank you so much for giving us some insight as to what is going on over there.    To know that there actually are good things happening for the people over there.     Wish I could give you a thank you hug...

We will miss you, your humor, your efficiency---everything---on the run.   But rest assured that you'll be thought about the entire time.    We know you're doing all you can to keep your fellow comrades safe.   You be safe, too.    And we look for the time when you're back on the run---and home--again.

 

Mojo

Take care and be SAFE! 

   Thank you and all of your men and women for their service.  Your wife and family need to be thanked as well.  "Semper-FI Marine 

 

It's great to hear that you are doing well.  Prayers go out to the families of the fallen.

 

Magnum is doing great.  I will do my best to send you some pictures before I leave for Rancho.

 

Hugs from me and sloppy kisses from Magnum