Entry #8: September 17, 2005

Wackernheim, Rhineland-Pfalz, Germany (just west of Mainz and the Rhine River)

McCully Barracks

So, I’m 24 now. Twenty four, almost a quarter century old. If I was scotch, I’d be priceless. I really don’t feel any different, just getting ready for another trip around the sun, only this time it will be spent in Iraq and the sun will feel as if it’s getting closer. My buddy, Shawn, threw me a little party last night. A fun time was had by all. Everyone joked that they were celebrating my 45th birthday because of my refined manner and exquisite taste (not to mention the ever receding hairline). It’s ok, because I feel my age and 24 is a good age to feel.

In addition to my birthday party, I received a pleasant surprise yesterday. My commander thought that I had performed well during our last trip to the field and presented me with an Army Achievement medal, my second. What really means more than the medal, however, was when my platoon said it was well-deserved. Those are some great guys I’ve got. They are a squared away bunch and intelligent to boot. I never really have to deal with disciplinary problems as they stay out of trouble, a far cry from the rambunctious and feral infantry fellows. We are a young bunch, all around the same age. All but 3-4 of us are between the ages of 20-27. We are a young bunch, but a solid, hard-working, and competent mix of talents. We’ll do fine. So the Soldier’s life continues…