Mailed blog – written by Julian

3 March 11

Third platoon  has the pleasure of being the turd of the company.  I mean, we are by far the best as I’ve explained many times before we’re the turd in that we always get the short end of the stick.  All things are done in order, first, second, and third the turd.  By the time it’s thirds’ turn, we are usually rushed through and/or cut short.  Today was no exception.

All of the ranges we go to are named for major battles or soldiers who exemplify military service.  At the gate of each range the story is posted of its namesake.  I always find this inspiring and a great reminder to why we are doing what we do.  Today we did Omaha, named for the epic battle on the shores of Omaha Beach in Normandy, France during world War Two.  This was our second visit to Omaha, the first time Third did not get to live fire, just dry fire (no ammunition). So today we were really hoping to use some bullets! No go.

Our firing was stopped by a fire.  Yes, that’s right, the range caught on fire.  At first the DS’s just told the privates to keep shooting and be thankful for the realistic setting.  There’s fire and smoke in Iraq too, you know.  The fire was at the end of the firing lane, but after 30 minutes it grew too big and the smoke was moving right toward us.  We had to cease-fire, there was a fire.  Just as Third Platoon was up to shoot.  Shoot.

Boo, hiss report:       Halfway through the day I cam down with the sniffles and sneezies.  Boo, hiss.  Alas, a package came tonight from mom containing my favorite throat pastilles that I swear by.  Hopefully they do the trick.  At dinner I only had time to eat some rice and two tangerines.  That was frustrating because tomorrow morning we have a 16K march.  That’s not much nourishment for such a big march.  Boo, hiss.  Lastly, I woke up this morning at 0245.  I had fire guard for an hour, tried to sleep from 0400-0500, but everybody was up and making so much noise.  I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this, but Gomez and I have the bunk right by the bathroom.  Very inconvenient.  Boo, hiss.

BUT… I’m glad I’m here.  It was a great day, and I thank the Lord for all my blessings.  Such as, letters from Auntie Gayle, Jennifer, Mags, Meebs, Danielle, Becs, Sherri, Ruth, and of course Mom and Dad.  Thanks guys, you keep me going!