Day Trippin'

Our office TV is a PHILLIBS...the lesser-known, distant cousin to PHILLIPS. Hey, at least the Iraqis can't be sued for copywrite infringement.

This is one of our NCOs struggling with the local directions.

The greatness of the MRAP.

Me chillin' out inside the MRAP.

Here's a shot of our area as I lifted off the LZ in a helicopter.

I had a rare opportunity to visit the area I was at during my last tour to Iraq.

Here's my ride back to Baghdad.

A view of Besmaya on our way out.

Here's a shot of our LZ back in Baghdad. Unfortunately, we were unable to land because it was occupied by someone else's helicopters.

So, we flew around for a few minutes and I took a picture of the local neighborhood.

Lost in Translation

The US Forces-Iraq Commander, GEN Odierno, visited our installation recently. As part of our duties here, we were tasked with transporting and providing for his safety while he traveled to a local Iraqi installation.

I just thought this was funny. Some things just don't translate well. This place serves either the worst tasting pizza, or the messiest headwear.

This is a shot of me briefing our installation commander prior to GEN Odierno's arrival. I'm not sure who the other guys are. They didn't speak much.

This is the UH-60 Blackhawk that brought our VIP.

And here's our installation commander greeting GEN Odierno.

Ok, time to move out. That's me about to lead the convoy. I didn't even get to meet the guy.

Just a typical "hello" between to Iraqi Police Officers...NOT THAT THERE'S ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT...but that' just how they roll.

Here's a random shot of our guards at one of our checkpoints. They are inspecting the undercarriage of the vehicle.

Here's a shot of one of our guard towers.

Main Street on the FOB.

Another day is over here in Iraq. One day closer to getting home!