Random

I have discovered a few things in the last few months. I guess that is what happens when you embark on a new path in life.

I have discovered that Drill sergeants don't find it too funny when they ask what you learned at basic training and you reply that you learned that yellow smoke from smoke grenades does not come out of uniforms no matter how hard you try.

I have discovered the enjoyment at running in the mornings. A few miles to start the day with seems to always start me off on the right foot.

I have learned that the majority of the army refers to 4 am when they have to be there for PT as the middle of the night. I had to agree with this one. It is still night time when it is still dark out for the entire hour you are PTing.

I have discovered that your day never really starts unless you get barked at by sea lions and homeless people as you run by.

I have discovered that homeless people will bark at you when you run by in military PT's and/or will propose marriage to you. That was an interesting run.

I have discovered that the only way to make some of the sounds of the Arabic language correctly, you need to jab yourself in the throat just right, or try and cough up a hairball.

I have also discovered that the Arabic language is the only language to have more exceptions to the grammar rules than rules themselves. We learn a rule and then learn about three exceptions to it. Apparently no one really follows some of the grammar rules...

Values

VALUES

Somewhere in the Devil’s Land
Where no one should have to live
A Soldier takes a guarded stand
And gives all he can give.

Somewhere on a lonely tower
A Soldier stands on guard
Fighting sleep at an ungodly hour
Even though it may be hard.

Somewhere at a checkpoint
A Soldier and hostile meet
Keeping his anger in check
Is a task that he must beat.

Somewhere in a wooded land
A Soldier takes a ride
Covered with our flag
Honor bound in every stride.

Somewhere in a room
A Soldier stands straight and tall
Fighting the urge to lie
Has integrity and takes the fall.

Somewhere in a guarded place
A Soldier holds his own
Refusing to flee in haste
Courage is all that’s shown.

Loyalty. Duty. Respect.
Selfless Service. Honor.
Integrity. Personal Courage.
Are what makes a Soldier what he is.