The last 3 days have been some of the most physically challenging I've ever had. I qualified on both the M9 and the M4 weapons. The day of the M9 training was absolutely beautiful. It was in the low 80's and sunny. The next day we spent nearly 18 hours on the M4 range in a downpour. The group was soaking wet and covered in mud from head to toe. On top of being drenched we were in "full battle rattle" which amounts to about 40lbs of body armor and helmet plus the weapon itself. That takes a toll after that amount of time.
Yesterday was land navigation. That was little more relaxed and the weather was a little better. Again we were in "full battle rattle" and so after the last 3 days I am feeling every one of my 34 years. I hurt and am totally exhausted.
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| full battle rattle at the M9 qualification range. |
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| Me, just looking cool |
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| Grenade training with my M4-still have to name her |
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| I'm the one in the middle in mid throw at the grenade training |
I am missing my family terribly. I am filled with feelings of sadness, guilt, exhaustion and at many times frustration. I have to remind myself each day that there have been many others to do this before me and that I have the strength, mentally and physically to meet his challenge. Even with that I am still counting the days until I get to go home for a few days before departing for Afghanistan.
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